For some companies, work seems to come easily. But for others it can be a lot harder to find. However, there is always work for reliable and professional haulage companies, so here are some tips for finding more jobs if you work in the haulage industry.

Expand Your Fleet

Quite simply, having more vehicles means you can take on more jobs. Of course, this comes with extra responsibilities such as finding drivers and increased admin work for you, but it is the only real way to grow your company in the long term. If you do not have a large fleet then you may find yourself turning down returnloads and other jobs because you simply cannot carry them out, and you end up passing them over to someone else. However, if you have the right fleet size then you can carry out the jobs yourself.

Join an Exchange Network

One of the best ways to find more work is to join an exchange network. Many companies are looking for drivers to carry out returnloads for them all the time, and you can pick them up and help the companies out at the same time. What’s more, if you do a good job then they will remember you and this could lead to more work in the future. Also, if you have a larger fleet and you want to take on a job for which you do not have a driver, you can use a service like this to find vehicles and accept jobs that you would otherwise have to turn down.

Set Stricter Targets

Setting yourself high standards and sticking to them is crucial if you want to build up a loyal customer base and generate more work. This means delivering on time every time; hiring the best people for your company and making sure that they all have a professional attitude at all times; making sure you offer yourself for returnloads; and going above and beyond to make sure you always make your deliveries.

Carry Out More Marketing

No matter what size your company, whether you work alone or you own 20 vehicles, marketing can help you to reach out to more clients. There are many ways to do this, such as visiting new potential clients in person to show them how you can be of service, advertising in industry magazines, or even looking into online marketing.

If you are looking for more jobs in the haulage industry, there are many ways to find them. Whether you want more clients or more returnloads, the above ideas should be able to give you a few ideas.

Norman Dulwich is a Correspondent for Haulage Exchange, the leading online trade network for the road transport industry across the UK and Europe. It provides services for matching returnloads and to buy and sell road transport and delivery work in the domestic and international markets.

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Jordon Freight has told the hospitality industry that companies need to arrange their delivery plans so that everything is up to date and ready to go when the games arrive. Haulage companies carrying out deliveries and returnloads are likely to be working extra hard during the Olympics, and, as a result, the pubs, restaurants and hotels need to arrange their deliveries and discuss their plans with haulage firms now to ensure that they have enough food and drink at the busiest times.

Restrictions for the Haulage Industry

It is predicted that 800,000 people a day are going to be arriving in London during the Olympics, which starts on July 27. Food and drink providers will be under enormous pressure to make sure they do not run out of supplies, and on top of that the haulage industry is set to have to deal with restrictions to its movement and delivery times. Haulage drivers carrying out deliveries and returnloads will have to make more deliveries and will have to do so on much busier roads. And it is not just businesses in London that will be affected: other areas of the UK where Olympic events are taking place such as Manchester and Sevenoaks will also feel the impact.

Time to Start Preparing

Traffic disruption is going to be severe for many weeks this summer, hence the call from Jordon Freight for companies to be prepared. It might also be a good idea for haulage drivers to start making their plans, if they have not already done so, because their work is bound to be disrupted in some way – whether they are carrying out deliveries and returnloads in London or anywhere else in the UK. It may also be a good idea for haulage drivers and companies who are carrying out returnloads to contact their clients who may be affected to provide them with details and to encourage them to start making their own preparations as they may not have thought of doing so yet. This is especially important for businesses involved in catering, whereas some other types of businesses may not be so desperate to ensure that their deliveries come through on time. This could be used as a good loyalty-boosting exercise which could have implications for work long after the Olympics have ended.

Norman Dulwich is a Correspondent for Haulage Exchange, the leading online trade network for the road transport industry across the UK and Europe. It provides services for matching returnloads and to buy and sell road transport and delivery work in the domestic and international markets.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Here are just some of the most popular traditions still in use today.

Father of the bride giving his daughter away

This is a tradition that is likely to last for a long time to come. Plenty of fathers have been proud to walk their daughters down the aisle in couture wedding dresses, ready to meet their husband to be at the end. In some cases where the father isn’t able to perform this duty, another member of the family who is close to the bride may step in.

Throwing the bouquet

This tradition would be much missed if it were not to be included. The belief is that when the bride throws the bouquet over her shoulder to the waiting single women behind her, the one who catches it shall be the next in line to get married.

Throwing confetti or rice

There are numerous reasons why these items are thrown when the couple are married and they exit the church. In Italy sweets – or confectionery, where the word confetti comes from – used to be handed out to those at a ceremony. Further back in history the use of rice or grains to throw over the happy couple was thought to suggest and encourage fertility. The item thrown depends on the region – Czech couples have peas thrown at them!

Brides wearing white couture wedding dresses

Most people think of white as a sign of virginity and purity, but in fact this is not the case. Blue is more traditionally associated with purity. The white dress is a more recent convention; in the past only the most expensive couture wedding dresses would be white.

Going on honeymoon

After the stress and emotions surrounding the average nuptials, many couples head off on honeymoon together. The origins of this tradition date back many centuries to when the man wanted to hide his bride away from others, so as to protect her and to ensure she was not captured by anyone else.

Wearing rings

Wedding rings are worn to symbolise the couple’s eternal love. The ring is constant and without an end, thus meaning that the love of the couple will prevail for all eternity. Rings were also exchanged between parties in earlier times as a method of forming an agreement.

These are just a handful of the myriad customs and traditions that are still in use today. Many others are also commonly used, such as the cutting of the wedding cake, the wedding breakfast and the speeches. Different countries and areas also have their own traditions, while certain families have traditions that have been passed down over centuries too. It is these traditions that help make the perfect day.

Looking for couture wedding dresses ? Tatiana Porembova is one of the leading wedding dress designers in London and her work spans a range of styles and influences. Based in Richmond, she creates beautiful couture wedding dresses and bridesmaids outfits to provide the perfect garments for the perfect day.

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Wedding themes can be as individual and memorable as couture wedding dresses. Thus it can be a good idea to focus on colours to build up your theme before doing anything else. Seasonal themes are particularly popular as there is a theme for every month and time of year. Here are some tips on choosing a seasonal theme for your own big day, with associated colour suggestions included.

Spring nuptials

Spring is a fresh time that is filled with the promise of new life ahead. It is therefore a wonderful time to plan a wedding. Seasonal flowers can be chosen and fresh green and yellow hues can help suggest a colour scheme. You could even create your theme around one or two particular flowers for inspiration.

Summer nuptials

This is the perfect time of year for a garden party theme. Consider indoor options too, in case the weather doesn’t hold. Couture wedding dresses can be a little more revealing if you are confident of good weather, with sleeveless designs worth considering. Fresh pastels or hot colour palettes are both usable with this theme.

Autumn nuptials

This time of year suggests rustic hues with burnt oranges, reds and browns coming to the fore. This is perhaps the easiest season to focus on when it comes to combining several colours together, because there is a whole range of autumnal colours that blend perfectly, providing a rustic backdrop to your event.

Winter nuptials

There is no need to feel cold when selecting a colour scheme for a winter wedding. Red and green can be a more traditional option if the ceremony is set to take place around the festive season, but there are other options too. Think of table centrepieces consisting of twigs and branches and sprayed with white snow to give a frosty finish. Add in some seasonal flowers –the familiar Poinsettia would make a gorgeously unusual backdrop to this.

Use your chosen theme and colour scheme to influence the rest of your plans

Once you have chosen your theme you can start building up ideas for the rest of the event. Some items, such as couture wedding dresses, need to be considered early on, while others such as the party favours can be put together nearer the time of the big day. But you will find, in every case, that once you have your seasonal colours and theme agreed upon, everything else will start to fall into position.

One final tip – if you are stuck for colour ideas, think about the most popular colours suggested by each time of year. This gives you a shortlist to choose from to influence your theme, making it even easier to ensure you have a wonderful theme that is indicative of the time of year.

Looking for couture wedding dresses ? Tatiana Porembova is one of the leading wedding dress designers in London and her work spans a range of styles and influences. Based in Richmond, she creates beautiful couture wedding dresses and bridesmaids outfits to provide the perfect garments for the perfect day.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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The Route of Santiago de Compostela — With such a plethora of history to explore in Galicia, holidays to the area are best taken on the move. One of the great ways to see a fair amount of the region, and to delve into its history, is to follow the route of Santiago de Compostela that leads from the French/Spanish border (entering either at Roncesvalles or Canfranc) to the Old Town of Santiago de Compostela. As you travel across this ancient pilgrimage route, you will pass some 1,800 buildings, both secular and religious, that are of great historic value. In addition, this route was the first European Cultural itinerary by the Council of Europe in 1987.

Santiago de Compostela — If you are interested in the religious history of Galicia, holidays to the region should begin in the Old Town of Santiago de Compostela in the northwestern part of Spain, which became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. As a beacon for Christian pilgrimages, the town was completely destroyed by the Muslims at the end of the 10th century and was rebuilt in extensive and elaborate Roman and Gothic architectural styles. It is considered one of the most stunning urban areas in the entire world.

The Monuments of Oviedo and the Kingdom of Asturias — Over the course of the 9th century, and the prevalence of the Islamic takeover of Spain, the Kingdom of Asturias in the northern part of the country remained a stronghold of Christianity. Visits to the area that was once the Kingdom of Asturias make an interesting venture while in Galicia. Holidays that take time to see the monuments of Oviedo, which played an intrinsic role in the pre-Romanesque architectural style and helped in the development of Spain’s religious architecture, will be richly rewarding. Some of the buildings that you need to be sure to see while in the ancient Kingdom of Asturias are the Cámara Santa, the Santa Cristina de Lena, and the San Julián de los Prados, both in and around Oviedo. These sites became UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1985 and were extended in 1998.

The Roman Walls of Lugo — Becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 was just the icing on the cake for the site of the Roman Walls of Lugo, which surround the Roman town of Lucus in Galicia. Holidays that take you to see the strongholds will surprise you by the sight of the fully intact circuit of walls that are the best-preserved evidence of late-Roman fortification in all of Western Europe.

Robert Gillies works for Casas Cantabricas, who specialise in a unique selection of hotels and self-catering villas for Galicia holidays. Each property in this glorious region is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best hotels and villas for your Galicia holidays.

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The As Catedrais Beach — Translated as ‘the beach of the cathedrals’, As Catedrais Beach is a stunning place to visit while in Galicia. Holidays to the area should include a visit to this dramatic segment of coastline, which sits about ten kilometres west of Ribadeo. Declared as a national monument by the Ministry for the Environment of the Xunta de Galicia, the area’s natural arches and caves can be seen only at low tide and are reminiscent of the archways and buttresses of cathedrals. During high tide, this is a relatively small beach where you can swim and wander over the rocks and cliffs that jut out into the water; but the real draw is the chance to walk along the sand deposits below the cliffs when the tide is out.

Queiruga Beach — Stretching for only about 1,200 metres in the A Coruna province of Galicia, holidays that bring you here will reveal enticing golden sands buffeted by crashing waves. As one of the many beaches on this stretch of coastline, Queiruga Beach is almost always deserted, providing you a perfect place to soak up the sun in peace and tranquillity. It sits at the entrance to the Noia-Muros Bay and has a slightly coarser grain of sand some of the other beaches in the Rias. The waves here can often be huge and make for a great day of windsurfing or other watersports. But be careful that you always remain aware of the tide, which has a pull out to the Atlantic that is stronger than you may expect.

Area Longa — Right along from Queiruga Beach is Area Longa. This stretch of coastline is a prime area for those keen on watersports in Galicia. Holidays that include a visit to this beach are perfect for those who are interested in an active break, and Area Longa is especially well known to surfers due to its excellent conditions and the surf club attached to it. Though this beach requires a short one-kilometre walk to get to, its mix of high-season bustle and low season calm make it a great place to spend a day on the coast. And, if you are one of the less inhibited types, Area Longa is also one of the beaches in Galicia that is clothing optional.

Robert Gillies works for Casas Cantabricas, who specialise in a unique selection of hotels and self-catering villas for Galicia holidays. Each property in this glorious region is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best hotels and villas for your Galicia holidays.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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One of the more personal of the Catalan traditions is in the locals’ names. While many other traditions may be the type many travellers imagine – feasts, celebrations, festivals and the like – Catalan naming customs are unique and stretch back for generations. According to the heritage, all the Catalan names given to young men and women are from biblical personalities, virgins, or Christian saints. It’s a practice also adopted in other areas of Northern Spain – villas in this region, however, make a great base from which to explore some of the unique Catalan associations with the names. One fun fact is that besides celebrating birthdays, Catalonians used to celebrate on the day associated with their namesake saint as well – double the fun!

A Literary Allusion

An ancient tradition that occurs on St George’s Day (or, as it’s known in Catalonia, the spring festival day of Saint Jordi) is ‘Dia del Libre,’ or Book Day. It’s certainly a unique tradition amongst those of Northern Spain. Villas and local hotels all get involved, and no matter where you’re staying, you’re likely to spot a few courting couples exchanging gifts. Men present the women with deep red roses, while women return the gesture by giving men a carefully chosen book. The theme of the day comes from the date of the celebration – coinciding with the anniversaries of William Shakespeare, Miguel de Cervantes and Josep Pla – all famed authors and respected writers.

Colles Castelleres

Definitely one of the most spectacular and impressive Catalan traditions, the practise of Colles Castelleres involves intrepid groups forming human towers, which can sometimes stretch up to 10 people high! It’s become a real spectator sport that can involve thousands of people, and it’s a wonderful event to catch on your holidays in Northern Spain. Villas make the perfect base for your team as you set out to be part of some of the region’s human towers, requiring strength, balance, courage – and a good deal of common sense!

Robert Gillies works for Casas Cantabricas, who specialise in a unique selection of hotels and self-catering Northern Spain villas . Each property in this glorious region is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best hotels and Northern Spain villas .

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A celebration that you might find at any time of the year is that of bottifarrada, which is quite similar to the practice of holding a barbecue – except that bottifarrada is all about a specific type of meat – namely, the sausage! Based on the ancient roman recipe of the botulu sausage (made of raw pork and select spices), today the sausage is one of the most important dishes of the Catalan cuisine in Northern Spain. Villas make the perfect base to source out the meats and sausages of the region – they’re absolutely delicious, and make a memorable meal for the gastronomically-inclined traveller.

Calçotada

Made from a green onion that grows in Catalonia named the calçot, there are several dishes that rely on these vegetables. One in particular makes up the calçotada, a shared celebration named after the calçot and held between the winter and March every year. The delicacy is barbecued, and then dipped in a variety of mouth-watering sauces, and accompanied by red wine or cava – it makes an incredible meal to enjoy while staying in Northern Spain. Villas offer a relaxed environment to enjoy good company and a calçot or two! One local trick is to roast pieces of meat and bread slices in the charcoal after you’ve cooked your calçots for a unique infusion of their distinctive taste.

Robert Gillies works for Casas Cantabricas, who specialise in a unique selection of hotels and self-catering Northern Spain villas . Each property in this glorious region is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best hotels and Northern Spain villas .

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One of the most striking and awe-inspiring features of Catalonia’s festivals is the Correfoc, a celebration where a group of people dress up as devils, frightening the crowd by setting off fireworks and fiery displays close by, all while dancing to traditional drumming. There’s no need to be very frightened, though – in the Correfoc celebration, the devils are presented as less malevolent fiends than mischievous tricksters, making it a great celebration even for younger children staying in Northern Spain. Villas in Catalonia are often well-placed to allow families to be close by to the celebrations, and to have a quiet place to retreat to if a little relaxation after the excitement is needed!

There are many different features of the Correfoc celebrations – in some places it takes the form of a simple parade through the streets (though no less exciting for that!), while in other places, more elaborate features are set up. In places like Sitges, for example, crowds line the street while participants run through a tunnel of fireworks – an exciting experience if ever there was one! Those staying in Northern Spain, villas or elsewhere, might just find they have a few more stories to share when they retire at the end of the day!

An Infernal Visit

One of the most distinctive and larger-than-life types of Correfoc celebrations takes place in L’Arboc where, on the evening of the Carretillada feast day, the town square is made to look like Hell itself. People costumed as devils set fire to special carts, while a large sceptre of Lucifer shoots pyrotechnics into the air! It’s a stunning spectacle to behold, and can be a highlight of a holiday spent in Northern Spain. Villas are a wonderful way to have a place to call your own, and a base for encountering the imps and devils of the Spanish Correfoc celebrations!

Robert Gillies works for Casas Cantabricas, who specialise in a unique selection of hotels and self-catering Northern Spain villas . Each property in this glorious region is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best hotels and Northern Spain villas .

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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1. The Guggenheim Museum

Bilbao is an excellent location for those seeking to rent Northern Spain villas, as it is a fairly large city that offers a perfect base to explore the surrounding regions. Furthermore, it boasts at least one attraction of its own, in the form of the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum. Although not as famous as its New York counterpart, the Bilbao branch of the world-renowned museum has attracted its fair share of visitors in its decade of existence, and established its reputation as one of Spain’s main showcases for art. It is certainly a mandatory stop in any tour of the north of the country, especially for art and culture lovers.

2. The Altamira Caves

History buffs will no doubt want to visit the Altamira caves, one of the world’s main sites for cave paintings. In ancient times, these caves were the pre-historic equivalent of Northern Spain villas, where nomadic tribes of early humans settled for more or less extended periods of time. And much like we nowadays like to share our experiences on Facebook, so did these cavemen tell their stories through crude artwork on the cave walls. The big advantage of this method over Facebook is, of course, that the Altamira paintings can still be admired today, millions of years later, making this complex a must-see for those interested in early human life.

3. Picos de Europa

Fans of hiking and mountaineering will find absolute bliss in the mountain range known as Picos de Europa. Stretching across three counties and over 800km, this imposing natural marvel is surrounded by quaint, typically Spanish villages and towns, with plenty of Northern Spain villas to relax in after a long day communing with nature! Whether you are a fan of biking, walking, rock-climbing or any other sort of outdoor activity, the ‘Picos de Europa’ will no doubt have something for you.

4. Santiago de Compostela

No visit to the region would be complete without a trip to one of the world’s most famous religious sanctuaries. Real pilgrims walk to Santiago de Compostela, or even go there on their knees, but more casual tourists may prefer to stay in one of the Northern Spain villas on offer around the area, and just drive there. Either way, the magnificence and special aura of this world-renowned spot is not to be missed.

5. San Sebastian

Just…San Sebastian. All of it. As one of the best alternatives to Spain’s “traditional” beach resorts, this city certainly asserts itself as one of the region’s main attractions for fans of a more traditional summer holiday. The added perk of being able to experience the charming local dialect, euskera, should only be further incentive for beach and nature enthusiasts to seek out one of the many typical Northern Spain villas on offer in the region.

As you can see, then, there is plenty to see and do in this gorgeous region, especially if you are looking for an alternative to the typical sun-and-beach holiday.

Robert Gillies works for Casas Cantabricas, who specialise in a unique selection of hotels and self-catering Northern Spain villas . Each property in this glorious region is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best hotels and Northern Spain villas .

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If, for example, you are a fan of hiking, bird-watching and other outdoor activities, the region offers the perfect setup for a wonderful holiday, as it possesses one of the most impressive mountain ranges in that part of the world, the ‘Picos de Europa’. Littered with little villages offering rustic hostels and quaint traditional villas, Northern Spain’s main mountain range is a veritable magnet for hikers, climbers, mountain bikers, potholers and fans of the great outdoors in general, offering, as it does, stunning scenic views, complete with lakes, gorges, caves and ridges.

The ‘Picos de Europa’ stretch out over an area of nearly 800 kilometres, covering the provinces of Leon, Castilla and Asturias. With its highest peaks towering over 2,500 metres above sea level, this imposing mountain range has a huge influence in Northern Spain’s climate, being one of the main reasons for that region’s perpetually verdant landscapes and considerably cooler climate when compared to the rest of the country.

The range itself is divided into three areas, known as the Eastern, Central and Western massifs. There is also an invisible line, at around 1600 metres, which separates the ‘friendlier’, more verdant sections of the range, from those higher up, which are less hospitable, colder, snow-capped, and likely to be braved by only the most adept mountaineers.

But even if you choose to stay in the lower regions of the massifs, there is still plenty for you to see and enjoy. In fact, a tourist in the ‘Picos de Europa’ may even decide to pass on hostels or villas; Northern Spain’s spectacular series of peaks all but invite you to pitch your tent (if just for one night) and enjoy the region’s natural wonders from up close. If, however, you are not quite ready for such a departure from the norm, you can book accommodation in one of the villages surrounding the gorge, which are an equally perfect base from which to explore the many trails, caves and underground tunnels of the three massifs.

In short, then, if you are want something a little more interesting than luxury hotels and villas, Northern Spain’s ‘Picos de Europa’ offer the perfect setup for what could be a rather unique holiday.

Robert Gillies works for Casas Cantabricas, who specialise in a unique selection of hotels and self-catering villas, Northern Spain . Each property in this glorious region is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best hotels and villas, Northern Spain .

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The history of Spain is a complex shifting kaleidoscope of close but distinct cultures, and the area known as the Costa Verde is one of the areas that most reflects this patchwork. There is so much to discover while staying in local villas, Northern Spain may well be the perfect destination for your summer holiday. Here is a brief look at some of the highlights:

The Dinosaur Coast

There’s plenty of travelling back in time available for those staying in local villas. Northern Spain, more specifically Asturias, is home to what is known as the Dinosaur Coast, and the Colunga Jurassic Museum. The Dinosaur Coast stretches from Ribadesella and Villaviciosa, where the shoreline is scattered with fossilised dinosaur footprints leading, conveniently enough, to the Jurassic Museum in Colunga. The museum building is shaped like one of the dinosaur footprints and lifts the lid on the fascinating history of these terrible lizards that ruled the world between 250 million and 65 million years ago. A visit to this fascinating and unique museum is a great day out for the whole family.

Oviedo

The former capital of Christian España, Oviedo is a town well worth visiting and is close to many of the area’s villas. Northern Spain was the last bastion of resistance against the Moorish invasion, and Oviedo was the where the last stand took place. The city has a history and grandeur that makes it particularly popular among tourists to the area.

If you’re interested in seeing some of the region’s magnificent architecture, then Oviedo is definitely the place to go. The spectacular cathedral and enchanting pre-Romanic churches dating from the 8th and 9th century provide a strong link to the area’s past. For those with more modern tastes, the city has some great shops tucked in amongst the medieval archways. If you need a spot of refreshment as you pound the pavements of Oviedo, you can also find a great selection of bars and restaurants where you can tuck into some of the famous Asturian cuisines while you soak up the local atmosphere.

Robert Gillies works for Casas Cantabricas, who specialise in a unique selection of hotels and self-catering villas, Northern Spain . Each property in this glorious region is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best hotels and villas, Northern Spain .

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A stay in a Puglia villa with pool facilities offers a relaxing base from which to delve into this history, with many fascinating sites right on your doorstep. One such place is the town of Otranto – read on to discover its attractions.

Colourful History

Among other things, Otranto’s Cattedrale di Santa Maria Annunciata puts this town firmly on the map for any history, art, or architecture buffs spending their holidays in a Puglia villa with pool amenities. The town has had a colourful history, thanks to its location as the southernmost port on the east coast of Italy, and the Cathedral remains as testament to that history. Consecrated in 1088 under Count Roger I, its foundations and parts of the main building go back much further, with the crypt dating from over 1400 years ago, and columns within the basilica which are thought to have originally been part of a temple to Minerva. The most striking feature is the floor, covered in detailed Biblical and folkloric mosaics that date from the 1160s.

Literary Heritage

Staying in a Puglia villa with pool on site means that book-lovers can while away idyllic afternoons reading at the poolside – but the region also boasts an interesting piece of literary history, as the setting of what most critics agree to be the first ever Gothic novel. The Castle of Otranto, by Horace Walpole, is a tale of ancestral curses falling on the ruling family, and was inspired by the real castle, which visitors can reach with a walk up the hill overlooking the sea. Partially destroyed and rebuilt many times over the ages, it is a unique piece of architecture, with three cylindrical towers accompanying a bastion, and an irregular five-sided plan, encircled by a moat.

Secluded Beaches

While a Puglia villa with pool facilities provides plenty of opportunities for swimming, the beaches that entice visitors to the region are well worth a trip too. Otranto offers nearby Porto Badisco, a sheltered cove with few tourists and idyllic snorkelling conditions along the white cliff-face that skirts sparkling blue waters. This beach, too, enjoys its share of literary history, being the site that Virgil locates as Aeneas’s first landing in Italy in the Aeneid. The pine grove on the bay’s north side is a great picnic spot, or the Ristorante L’Approdo di Enea offers good simple lunches and dinners. Another point of interest nearby is the Grotta dei Cervi (Cave of the Deer), featuring cave paintings of deer from the Neolithic age.

Helen Forbes is from Essential Italy, a company specialising in Italian holiday villas, apartments and hotels. If you’re looking for the perfect Puglia villa with pool we can help. Every Puglia villa with pool is handpicked and offers distinctive Italian qualities, great comfort and convenience.

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With your villa as your base you can discover the best of this unspoilt region, before returning to unwind on the veranda or at the poolside. And while the whole of the area is somewhat ‘off the beaten track’, those who want a truly unique Italy experience should make room for these hidden gems on their itinerary.

Torre Guaceto Beach

While staying in a Puglia villa with pool amenities means you’ll be able to go for a dip at any time, the region’s beaches are not to be missed. There are many great crowd-beating seaside spots, but one of the best is Torre Guaceto in Brindisi. A protected nature reserve, it is beautifully unspoilt and great for nature-lovers and beach fans alike – just be sure to take a picnic, as there aren’t any restaurants in the immediate area.

The Trulli of Alberobello

It will be immediately apparent to anyone staying in a Puglia villa with pool provision that this is a region of beautiful architecture, and with a little exploration you’ll discover all kinds of buildings of many styles and eras. Perhaps the most intriguing of all are the trulli, dry stone huts with conical slate roofs, all of which can be easily and quickly dismantled. These came to prominence in medieval Puglia as a clever means of avoiding taxation: tax was charged to homeowners, and trulli owners could take their houses apart and then reassemble them once the tax collector was gone. Visit Alberobello to see beautiful, slightly otherworldly-looking rows of trulli.

Abbazia Santa Maria di Pulsano

Those looking to steep themselves in local history will find plenty to fascinate at the Abbey of Santa Maria of Pulsano. Located on the Gargano Promontory, it will most likely be a bit of a drive from your Puglia villa. With pool, garden, and home comforts it might be tempting not to leave your accommodation, but the Abbey is well worth the journey. Any doubts as to whether it is off the tourist track will be settled when you arrive at the deserted gate, which visitors are expected to open and close behind themselves. A short walk brings the Abbey into view, with its striking combination of recently-restored main buildings and ruined arches from previous incarnations. It was first built in the sixth century, and rebuilt and destroyed several times up until the latest restoration of 1991. With peaceful environs to explore, hands-on workshops, and a high-tech library holding more than 20,000 texts, this is certainly a singular and illuminating attraction.

Helen Forbes is from Essential Italy, a company specialising in Italian holiday villas, apartments and hotels. If you’re looking for the perfect Puglia villa with pool we can help. Every Puglia villa with pool is handpicked and offers distinctive Italian qualities, great comfort and convenience.

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The other famous crop in this region is durum wheat – the hardy wheat used to produce pasta. But when it comes to producing great pasta, the ingredients are only considered half the secret. The other half is the method, and the best pasta you’ll taste in this region is that which has been formed by hand. Look out for the area’s favourite pasta, orecchiette – ‘little ears’. Great care and pride also go into the production of bread, and the local bakers’ signature loaves are the huge rounds called Pane di Monte St Angelo.

Seafood

No lover of seafood should leave without sampling the delights on offer here. Whether it’s a seafood restaurant in one of the coastal towns, or fresh fish bought in the market to take home and prepare in your accommodation, Puglia offers some of the very best. Specialties to look out for include marinated octopus, baked muscles, Taranto oysters, and stuffed baked cuttlefish.

Cooking classes

After sampling the best of the region’s restaurants, why not take home some techniques so you can recreate the flavours long after you’ve packed up and vacated your accommodation? Puglia has some excellent cooking class options, with several one-day courses available in Lecce, and a range of classes available to guests and non-guests alike at top hotels.

Helen Forbes is from Essential Italy, a company specialising in Italian holiday villas, apartments and hotels. If you’re looking for the perfect Italian accommodation, Puglia is ideal. Our handpicked accommodation, Puglia and elsewhere, offers distinctive Italian qualities, great comfort and convenience.

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Lovely Lecce

To get a real feel for the life of a region, its major cities are always a good bet, and the ‘Florence of the South’ is no exception. There’s plenty to do in Lecce, so, comfortable as it may be, it’s worth rousing yourself from your Puglia villa with pool amenities and making a full day of it. The splendour of the city centre’s white and gold stone buildings, the lively markets and chic boutiques, and the baroque architecture of the churches with their madcap gargoyles all make this a fabulous city to explore. Points of interest include the gladiatorial Amphitheatre, the Duomo, the papier mache workshops and the verdant Parco Communale – and then there are the restaurants, cafes, and gelato sellers to be found around every corner.

Brindisi

A smaller city than Lecce, but still well worth an excursion from your Puglia villa with pool facilities, Brindisi has the distinct feel of a port town, with a pleasant, colourful seafront. It will appeal to those with an interest in Roman history, as it was the end of the Via Appia – the Roman Road – along which traders, pilgrims and legionnaires all travelled towards Greece and further east. Take advantage of the location and enjoy some of the fresh seafood on offer, relax on one of the local beaches, or wander along the seafront promenade. Castles, churches, and Roman ruins add to the city’s interest and charm, while nature-lovers will appreciate the existence of several reserves nearby.

Alberobello

Those seeking something uniquely Pugliese should make a point of visiting Alberobello, in the province of Bari. A small, quiet town, it has earned the status of a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its fairy tale-like rows of trulli – small dry-stone houses with conical slate roofs designed to be readily dismantled, in order to avoid housing tax. Despite being a tourist destination, Alberobello is pleasantly un-crowded, and can be comfortably explored in an afternoon. If you have booked into a nearby Puglia villa with pool facilities, the drive back home will be well worth the rewards!

Helen Forbes is from Essential Italy, a company specialising in Italian holiday villas, apartments and hotels. If you’re looking for the perfect Puglia villa with pool we can help. Every Puglia villa with pool is handpicked and offers distinctive Italian qualities, great comfort and convenience.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Oristano - Situated on the western side of the island, Oristano is centrally located near a variety of beautiful beaches, within easy access of your villa. In Sardinia, this town and commune typical of the island, and has a current economy based on fishing and agriculture. It is known outside of the area for its history and its rise to prominence in 1070 A.D. While in the town be sure to see the Tower of St. Christophoros, which was built in 1290 and marks one of the gates of the ancient walls. After seeing the 19-metre tower, head to Church of St. Francis of Assisi, built circa 1200 A.D., before visiting the impressive St. Mary’s Cathedral. This cathedral was originally built around 1130 A.D., but was destroyed in a siege, rebuilt, and again restored in the 19th century. Its Baroque architectural influences can still be seen in the façade.

Castelsardo – On the northern part of the island you could find yourself ensconced in a lovely, sun-drenched villa in Sardinia near the town of Castelsardo. As you walk around the town, it is interesting to remember that this area has had human habitation since the pre-Nuragic times (dating from 1800 B.C.). On your drive into the town, be sure to slow down to see the Elephant’s Rock, a natural sculpture made by the wind and rain and somehow shaped into an elephant! Once inside the town limits, head over to see Doria Castle (1102 A.D.) and palace, which dominated the old town in times past.

Su Nuraxi di Barumini - As you are deciding where you want to go while soaking up the sun in your villa in Sardinia, why not consider heading over to Su Nuraxi di Barumini in the central part of the island? As a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, the Su Nuraxi di Barumini are an interesting example of the special type of defensive structure known as nuraghi, which is without parallel elsewhere in the world. The circular defence towers, in the form of dressed, truncated cones with corbel-vaulted interior chambers, are an interesting feature of historical protection capabilities that date back to at least the Bronze Age during the second millennia B.C. They are thought to have been built by single families or clans whose homes and villages then grew up around these defensive points.

Helen Forbes is from Essential Italy, a company specialising in Italian holiday villas, apartments and hotels. If you’re looking for the perfect villa in Sardinia, Essential Italy is ideal. Every handpicked villa in Sardinia offers distinctive Italian qualities, great comfort and convenience.

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How about on the movies and TV? The city is the scene of some of the most popular of film and television locations – and if you’re a fan, why not pay a visit to some of them when you have time off from your London conference. Hotels’ concierges will have some information on what to see and how to get there, but here are just a few to get you started.

The Making of Harry Potter

No need for magic spells- all you need are your feet (and perhaps the train or tour bus) to take you here from your London conference hotels. One of the most popular attractions these days, and available until early March 2013, you’ll be able to watch the making of one of the most successful film franchises of all time – Harry Potter!

Located in Watford, trains easily transport you here from your London conference hotels, though you will need to book in advance. Once there, you’ll be able to walk through the sets that appeared on screen, shot on the two dedicated soundstages where the series was filmed over ten years. You will instantly recognise the Great Hall, Dumbledore’s office, the Gryffindor common room and Hagrid’s hut. The attraction also exhibits costumes and includes a creature effects workshop that reveals the animatronic technology behind the fantastic creatures – such as Buckbeak the Hippogriff, Fawkes the phoenix and the giant Basilisk head.

James Bond Tours

If you’ve seen even one movie in the world’s greatest spy thriller franchise, you probably know that his home base is no more than a stone’s throw away from some of the most popular London conference hotels. James Bond tours are another popular attraction, where visitors learn the movie magic secrets of how these films were made, where they were shot, and get a glimpse into the secret world of spies! Many of these tours feature some of the classic James Bond settings from the movies and novels. For instance, there’s the spot where the traffic wardens were splashed in The World is Not Enough; or St Petersburg Square, where Pierce Brosnan as James Bond stands in Goldeneye; or follow the route used for James Bond’s briefing by Dame Judi Dench who plays M, in Tomorrow Never Dies. Many of these tours begin where James Bond author Ian Fleming was born, showing the inspirations for his world famous novels, and what’s more, some will even bring you to places where fiction becomes reality- actual spy locations associated with the real world of espionage.

Television Shows

Tours for Downton Abbey, Dr. Who, Torchwood and other popular British television shows are also available, if you’re more the television type. Indeed, there’s so much to see and do for film and television buffs – and it all happens within easy reach of London conference hotels!

Looking for London conference hotels ? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for Worldhotels, a company offering the best London conference hotels and a selection of unique four and five star hotels around the world.

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War Museums

If you’re a history buff, you may want to leave the present at those London conference hotels and head into the past. The Churchill Museum and Churchill War Rooms, dedicated to the life of the man known as the greatest Briton, and featuring the secret underground headquarters of Britain’s war effort, will be an enthralling experience.

The Britain at War Museum, on the other hand, provides a glimpse of the lives of ordinary people during the Second World War– definitely a far cry from the comfort and convenience you’ll be enjoying these days at your London conference hotels, and even back home! Meanwhile, there’s also the Imperial War Museum – which chronicles the different battles and wars involving Great Britain from the First World War – and the Household Cavalry Museum is a unique behind-the-scenes look at the role and operations of The Household Cavalry through history.

If firepower and weapons of war are what interest you, you may also want to visit the Royal Artillery Museum of Woolwich, which chronicles the history of the Gunners from the earliest cannons to the various artilleries employed today worldwide.

Sports Museums

If you’re a sports buff, you’ll probably want to spend your time away from those London conference hotels in one or more of the amazing museums dedicated to the love of specific sports. The Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum, for instance, is a state-of-the-art museum that has received thousands upon thousands of visitors from all over the world since it was established, and is a must for any fan of tennis. Whether you’re a rugby fan, or one of those people who are just discovering it, the Twickenham World Rugby Museum and Stadium Tours are an unforgettable experience providing backstage access to grounds considered hallowed by rugby enthusiasts worldwide.

Transport

For those involved in areas that deal with the many modes of transportation (or even if you’re just a car, boat or plane buff), there are several museums that offer an enriching experience. One of these is the London Transport Museum, which offers historical exhibits that show the relationship between transport and the growth of modern London, its culture and society since 1800.

For an experience that’s concentrated on cars, the London Motor Museum has a unique collection of classic American Cars that relate to the story of the early motoring experience. The National Maritime Museum, on the other hand, houses over 2 million objects related to seafaring, including Dutch and British maritime art and cartography, providing a glimpse of the history of Britain at sea. Planes are what you like? Then head on over to the Royal Air Force Museum in Hendon for an exciting foray into the history of aviation and aircraft.

In fact, there are many more museums dedicated to various areas of interest including toys, advertising and design, gardens, city planning and canals, and many more! All you have to do is step out of those London conference hotels and discover what the city has in store– it’s bound to be an enriching time.

Looking for London conference hotels ? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for Worldhotels, a company offering the best London conference hotels and a selection of unique four and five star hotels around the world.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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The man-made lake is a favourite for swimmers and boaters, and its banks provide a perfect site for picnics and gatherings. There are paths for walking and running, as well as for cycling and skating. There are areas for games, tennis courts, tracks for horseback riding, and a large children’s playground. For those who want less-strenuous forms of entertainment, the park is a favourite of chess players, and the Speaker’s Corner serves as a platform for the city’s most vocal orators. There are also a number of fascinating buildings and monuments, such as The Serpentine Bridge, the Joy of Life fountain, and Diana Memorial Fountain, among others, in addition to the beautiful scenery. The meadow and the ornamental gardens provide some serenity, and cultural events such as festivals, concerts, and celebrations are held throughout the year. There’s no need to take stray too far from your Hyde Park hotel. London’s most beloved park offers something for everyone.

One of the best things about the park is its open-air events – easily accessed when you are staying in a Hyde Park hotel. London is well known being one of the music capitals of the world, and, every year music lovers from all over the world come to attend its amazing concerts. This year is no different as several amazing events have been scheduled. If you’re planning on visiting the city in the near future, be sure to check out the events listed below.

Wireless Festival 2012

The Wireless Festival is an international music event that has been held annually since 2005. This year’s festival is scheduled to be held from July 5th to 8th, with the July 8th event being headlined by Rihanna. With five UK number one hits under her belt, fans from all over the world will surely be flocking to the park to experience the Barbados native’s explosive performance. Among many others, Deadmau5, Drake, Afrojack, and The Roots will also be participating.

Hard Rock Calling 2012 Concert

Hard Rock Calling is a massive annual two-day rock music festival. This year, the festival is scheduled for mid-July. Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band will be headlining the show, reprising their spectacular 2009 performance. Paul Simon and Soundgarden have also confirmed their participation, in addition to many other artists and performers, including John Fogerty, Alison Krauss, Lady Antebellum, and Big Country.

The Madonna 2012 World Tour Concert

Yes, the pop diva comes to the Park this July 17th! Be ready to party as the Madonna 2012 World Tour comes to London. There’ll be no worries about missing half the concert by being stuck in traffic or forgetting your ticket—the venue is just a short walk away from your Hyde Park hotel. London is only one of the 27 cities on the European leg of this tour. Australia, North America, Canada, and South America will also be part of the tour.

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Nature lovers don’t have to venture very far from their Hyde Park hotel. London, interestingly enough, is nicknamed ‘The City of the Big Smoke’, due to the terrible smog that covered the city in December 1952; however, tourists these days may be confused by this nickname. The modern metropolis is home to a number of large parks, including the Royal Parks, which provide a green oasis in the midst of the bustling city. The Royal Parks comprise eight beautiful parks totalling more than 5,000 acres, dubbed ‘the lungs of London’. Of the Royal Parks, Hyde Park is the largest, covering 350 acres and serving as home to many different varieties of flora and fauna. Listed below are some of the attractions in the park that nature lovers should definitely not miss while staying in a Hyde Park hotel. London’s most famous green space awaits.

The Birds of the Meadow

The meadow area comprises approximately nine acres of parkland specifically set apart for the protection and preservation of local wildlife, with its trees, shrubs, and plants providing dense and rich habitats, food, and nesting materials. The park, like its fellow Royal Parks, is especially known for being home to many songbirds, including robins, dunnocks, and tits. In fact, in the springtime, several of the Royal Parks hold bird walks [during which, participants walk through the park to engage in bird watching], as well as their ‘dawn bird chorus’ events, where participants gather at dawn to listen as the woods come alive with birdsong. The park also features some more exotic birds, such as black swans, buzzards, and Egyptian geese, although sightings of these species are extremely rare. The park discourages feeding the birds; however, never fear, there are plenty of people-friendly birds over at the Serpentine, such as ducks and geese, for those who want a little more interaction.

The Roses of the Rose Garden

The Rose Garden is one of the most beautiful cultured gardens in the park. Featuring thousands of rosebushes in all sizes and colours imaginable, springtime through summer is the perfect time to visit this floral paradise. Nestled away in the southeastern corner of the park, very near the Wellington Memorial, the garden is divided into several areas, giving the feel of several gardens clustered together. These areas are enclosed by lush greenery that acts as the perfect backdrop to the riotous blooms and provides a sense of intimacy and shelter among the vastness of the park. The Rose Garden also is the perfect place for a meditative walk, and to bask in the restorative power of nature.

Enjoy all the sights and sounds of springtime surrounding your Hyde Park hotel. London’s parks can offer such beauty and majesty, filling your heart with so much peace and tranquillity that, once you return to your Hyde Park hotel, London may seem like another world entirely!

Looking for a Hyde Park hotel, London? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for Worldhotels, a company offering the best rooms at Hyde Park hotels, London and a selection of unique four and five star hotels around the world.

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For those already in shape and looking for a challenge, the city holds many local and international sports events. In fact, just in case you didn’t know, London will be hosting the 2012 Olympic Games this July! This will be the third time it will do so (the city also hosted the 1908 and the 1948 Games), making the UK the first country [and this the first city] to host the Games three times! Several of the events will be held inside the famous park itself, and will be clearly visible from your Hyde Park hotel. London is definitely the place to be this summer!

The London Marathon

Also known as the Virgin London Marathon, this is a famous sporting event watched and participated in by athletes from all over the world. This marathon is also the largest annual fundraising event on the planet. Every year, thousands of people come to the city, either to participate in the race or to support the runners, and to raise money for a good cause. Since 1981, the year it was first held, runners have raised over £ 500 million for various charities and causes. Approximately 37,500 runners participated in the recently held 32nd marathon, which began in Greenwich Park and finished in St. James’s Park.

If you missed this year’s marathon but want to strap on a pair of sports shoes for charity or just want to participate in a very good cause, listed below are a couple of other popular sports events you may want to check out.

Moonwalk 2012

MoonWalk is a huge fundraising event in which thousands power walkers (both men and women) in brightly coloured bras stride through Hyde Park at night in support of the charity organisation Walk The Walk, which raises money for breast cancer research. In its 15 years of operation, Walk The Walk has raised over £ 45 million. This year, 15,000 people have signed up to raise money and raise awareness for the disease, as well as to get fit and have fun. Moonwalk 2012 is scheduled for May 12, Saturday.

Race For Life

Race for Life is one of the biggest women-only fundraising activities for cancer research in the UK. Rather than a single event, Race For Life is a series of fundraising events held all over the UK where runners sign up to walk, jog, or run 5 or 10 km, and sponsors pledge funds accordingly. Since 1994, women of all ages and fitness levels across the UK have participated in Race For Life, coming together to join the fight and support Cancer Research UK, whose groundbreaking work that has already saved millions of lives. The Hyde Park Race for Life event is scheduled for May 27th.

Participating in a charity run can be both fun and challenging. Fortunately, because these events are held within the park, once you’ve crossed the finish line, you can start recuperating immediately as soon as you return to your nearby Hyde Park hotel. London is definitely a great place to help build a better world, and also help shape a better you!

Looking for a Hyde Park hotel, London? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for Worldhotels, a company offering the best rooms at Hyde Park hotels, London and a selection of unique four and five star hotels around the world.

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Truly, there a million reasons to visit this incredible city – one of which must be its place as a premier centre for fashion and manufacturing. And, as every experienced traveller knows, a vital (and, for some, the most important) part of travelling is the shopping. For many, the label “Swiss” is synonymous with world-class chocolates, cheese, Army knives, cuckoo clocks and precision watches; however, that’s only scratching the surface when it comes to retail therapy. Because the city is located only a few kilometres away from Geneva airport, taxi cabs can take you directly to the heart of the city’s shopping districts as soon as you land. The Rue du Rhone, which is home to a selection of designer boutiques and high-end department stores, is a great place to start.

Listed below are some other shopping destinations serious shoppers need to check out, offer something for every one, whether its bargain shopping at a flea market or for fashionistas who want only the latest in haute couture,

Globus Department Store

Globus Department Store, which has been operating in the country for more than 30 years, is likely to be one of your first stops as you come into the city from Geneva airport. Taxi drivers will tell you that the store is quite ‘ritzy’ and specialises in the ‘finer things in life’, which is quite impressive considering Swiss standards.

Carouge Market

Carouge Market has been held every Wednesday and Saturday on the Place du Marché since 1777. Amazing! This market offers fresh produce such as organic vegetables and fresh fish caught form Lake Geneva, as well as small shops that carry locally made products, both edible and non-edible. Be sure to get there early as it can get quite crowded.

Philippe Pascoët

Chocolate lovers, look no further. In a country already overflowing with great chocolate, Philippe Pascoët, a past winner of the Prix de l’Artisanat de Genève, will surely make your mouth water with his unusual confectionery – such as pralines and truffles infused with fresh thyme, basil, star anis, tobacco, tea, and saffron, among others. This chocolate shop can be found on the rue Saint-Placide, and is open every day except Sundays.

Parfumerie Theodora

Perfume is more than a luxurious indulgence; it captivates the senses and allows people a glance of your most hidden persona. This enchanting perfumery, located in Old Town, should be on everyone’s itinerary. Parfumerie Theodora offers a wide selection of rare and prestigious perfumes that will definitely captivate you, and help you captivate others!

You could literally shop till you drop in this amazing city. Even better, with its easy accessibility you won’t have to worry about having a lot more baggage as you head back to the Geneva airport. Taxi drivers in this Swiss paradise are used to tourists indulging – after all, who could resist?

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Geneva airport taxi transfer, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

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For the athletes of the world, this Swiss city is more than a skiing base, however. Each year, the city hosts various other sports events to pay tribute to the athletic spirit and foster international fraternity and competition. Listed below are interesting competitions and events held through the year in the ‘Capital of Peace’.

The Geneva Marathon

The Geneva Marathon, also known as the Marathon for Unicef, is an annual foot race. Held every May, it draws about 5,500 participants each year. The marathon is composed of four races. The Marathon, the main event, covers more than 42,000 kilometres (26 miles) through stunning countryside and past historical landmarks; the Half Marathon (or Semi-Marathon) is run simultaneously with the main marathon, but is half the length; La Genevoise is a five kilometre race exclusively for women; and finally, the Junior Races are four races for children ages one to six years old. Based on their ages, the children will run from one kilometre to three kilometres under the guidance and supervision of race officials.

Cyclotour du Léman

Every May, more than 2,000 professional and amateur cyclists take part in the Cyclotour du Léman. This event is perfect for all fitness levels as there are several routes to choose from (60, 110 and 180 km) covering Geneva, Lausanne, and Evian. This event is so popular that some companies hold training trips for athletes who intend to participate. Many international athletes bring their own cycling equipment and, luckily, this is no problem. At Geneva airport, taxi transport and shuttle buses are available to assist travellers carrying bulky sports equipment.

The Supercross

Held every December at the Palexpo, the Supercross event is a jet-fuelled celebration of the motorcycling sport. It features thirty of the world’s best motorcyclists challenging each other’s skills in a contest of speed. In addition to the motorcycle races, the event offers an almost carnival experience, with live music, performers, food and drinks, and a light and sound show. Don’t worry about overindulging though – because Palexpo is quite near Geneva airport, taxi services are readily available to bring you safely back to your hotel.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Geneva airport taxi transfer, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

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Travel to this Swiss city is quite simple. As it is served by Geneva airport, taxi is the most convenient way to reach the city, which is a mere three kilometres away. In fact, from Geneva airport, taxi drivers can also easily take visitors to other popular Swiss cities, such as La Givrine, which is merely 50 kilometres away, or Lausanne, which is just 62 kilometres away.

As visitors ride into the city from Geneva Airport, taxi drivers will no doubt point out the Jet d’Eau, a massive fountain that spectacularly expels water 150 metres into the air. Listed below are some other iconic sites that one should not miss. These sites are not only architecturally interesting, but have helped shape the history of this great city and the world.

Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Genève

Due to its height, Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Genève, or St Peter’s Cathedral, will no doubt be one of the building that will impress you as you drive in from Geneva airport. Taxi drivers may well take you past this site – located in Old Town in the heart of the city – on the way to your hotel. The adopted home church of John Calvin, one of the leaders of the reformation, the cathedral is the city’s oldest and most impressive architectural treasure. Construction of the edifice began in 1160, and continued for more than 400 years, suffering numerous makeovers and fires in between. Visitors may climb the north tower to view panoramic scenes of the city, or see artefacts dating back to 350 AD down in the Archaeological Museum in the basement.

Palais des Nations

Palais des Nations, or the Palace of Nations, has served as the home of the city’s office of the United Nations since 1946, when the Secretary General of the UN signed a Headquarters Agreement with the Swiss authorities. However, interestingly enough, Switzerland did not become a member of the UN until 2002. Before 1946, it served as the headquarters of the League of Nations. It is the second-largest complex of buildings in Europe, housing approximately 2,800 offices and 34 conference rooms.

The International Museum of the Reformation

The International Museum of the Reformation chronicles the history of the Reformation movement of John Calvin through objects, books, manuscripts, paintings, and engravings dating back to the 16th century. Through this movement, a new scheme of governance was created, and the city became one of the centres of Reformed theology. The museum is connected to the archaeological museum of Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Genève.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Geneva airport taxi transfer, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

From Faro airport, taxi is the best way to get to this charming town as the centre is only a few minutes away. From Faro airport, taxi drivers can just as easily take you to one of the nearby towns, which also are also brimming with interesting sites. Listed below are some of the unique attractions and sites in the area that should not be missed.

Museu Arqueologico

The Archaeological Museum of Faro is a great place to begin your tour of the area. The museum is housed in the lovely Convento de Nossa Senhora da Assunção, which was built in the 16th century. The museum features both Moorish and Roman artefacts (all uncovered in nearby sites) such as pottery, silverware, and coins, glorious azulejos, and beautiful 17th century paintings.

Igreja Matriz de Alte

The charming village of Alte is a mere 55 km northwest of Faro. Considered one of the most unspoilt and appealing villages within the region, its whitewashed houses, cobblestoned alleyways, and azulejos provide a peek into how the Algarve district looked like centuries ago. It is quite famous for its Folklore Festival and Wedding Ceremony, which takes place on the second Saturday in August. Igreja Matriz de Alte, a famous church dating back to the 13th century, is said to have been built by the wife of the Second Lord of Alte to give thanks to Our Lady of the Assumption for his safe return from the Crusades.

Capela dos Ossos

Fans of the grizzly and the macabre will surely enjoy the Capela dos Ossos – a little chapel made entirely out of bones and skulls of [some say] as many as 5000 monks. According to the history books, the chapel was built in the 16th century by a Franciscan monk who taught his brother monks to always be aware that life is transitory. A chilling message is inscribed over the entrance: ‘We, the bones that are here, await yours’.

Palacio de Estoi

Estoi, a mere dozen miles north of the town, is another area that is within easy access of Faro airport. Taxi drivers will be more than happy to take you right to its main attraction, Palacio de Estoi. Currently, visitors are not allowed inside this 18th century palace as it is being transformed into a pousada; however, its iconic architecture still draws thousands of tourists each year.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Faro airport taxi , Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

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Visiting the city is especially easy due to its proximity to Faro airport. Taxi services are also easily available, which makes it doubly convenient. Among Portugal’s most popular attractions are its many (approximately 150) beautiful beaches, which vary from the small sheltered coves to broad, endless stretches of sea-washed sand. Due to their popularity, nearly all the larger beaches engage lifeguards to ensure the safety of their visitors. They also offer beach amenities and facilities, such as equipment for water sports or sunbeds for sunbathing, and many feature beachside restaurants and snack bars. Many of these beaches have also been categorized as ‘accessible’ beaches, which means they have complied with strict standards of safety and accessibility for all visitors, including those that are physically challenged.

Listed below are some of the popular beaches accessible from the city. These beaches can become quite crowded during the height of summer so its best to schedule your trips in late spring or early summer.

Praia de Faro

Praia de Faro, a beautiful, sun-drenched beach featuring beautiful golden sand, is mere minutes away from Faro airport. Taxi cabs are quite used to people going straight from the airport to the beach, especially during the first warm spring days when visitors are eager for loads of sunshine. This beach is a popular destination for watersports enthusiasts, such as those who enjoy windsurfing, sailing, and jet-skiing.

Praia Ilha de Tavira

Praia Ilha de Tavira is considered the jewel in the crown of the eastern side of Faro. It is also often locally referred to as Praia das Cascas. From Faro airport, taxi cabs can take visitors to the jetty of Tavira, which is located just outside the town. From there, it’s only a few minutes by boat to this beautiful sandy beach.

Ilha da Barreta

Ilha da Barreta is a pretty little island covered in wildflowers and featuring a long sandy Blue Flag beach. This island is further away from the town, but will definitely be worth the trip. From Faro airport, taxi service is available to the Porta Nova ferry, which will take you to the island. Sunbathers can opt to go straight to the beach, while nature lovers may consider taking the ferry tour and receive a crash course on the unique local flora and fauna of the area.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Faro airport taxi , Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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The famous Leaning Tower of Pisa

This is undoubtedly the most famous landmark in Pisa. But it is just one of several landmarks in the Piazza del Duomo. This means Cathedral Square, but it is also known as the Piazza dei Miracoil, which translates into the Square of Miracles. The square boasts the famous tower and also the Baptistery and the Duomo (both mentioned below). The Leaning Tower itself took nearly 200 years to build, and construction began back in 1173. It took just five years for the tower to start leaning, which it still does today. Restoration work was performed in recent years to correct some of the lean, but it is still quite noticeable. Many tourists staying in villas in Tuscany take the time to come and see the marvel for themselves.

The Duomo

While you are in the Piazza del Duomo you can also make time to see the Duomo itself. Duomo means cathedral in Italian, and building started on the structure way back in 1093. It provides yet another stunning focal point in the square that also holds the most famous tower in the world. The cathedral was created from white marble and thus stands out remarkably in the square itself. It is no less impressive inside either, with marble pavements, and stunning examples of Renaissance art and bronze angels – to name just three of the sights worth looking out for. The original interior has been lost in places due to a fire in 1595, but much still remains.

Pisa Baptistry

You can probably see that it is worth booking one of the villas in Tuscany that are situated close to where the Piazza del Duomo is situated. The two landmarks above are both on the square and you will also find the Pisa Baptistry there. Its full name is the Baptistry of St John and it dates back to 1153, although it was not completed until the 1300s, taking more than 200 years to finish. It stands more than 54 metres tall, which gives you an idea of how imposing it is on the square, especially when standing in the same area as the Leaning Tower and the Duomo. The detail of the portal, the interior and indeed the rest of the Baptistry is quite stunning and well worth a look.

It is clear that Pisa has some amazing sights to see when you are booking a holiday at one of the villas in Tuscany. Be sure to see these top three sights and then look for others in Pisa too. You won’t be disappointed at the landmarks it has to share.

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialises in finding the perfect villas in Tuscany in Chianti as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Each villa is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

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So when you are looking to book one of the villas in Tuscany, bear the following locations and activities in mind to ensure you pick the best location for your holiday.

Head for Cavriglia National Park

You can easily spend a day here in the Chianti hills. It covers a wide area and provides a good opportunity to wander along the pathways and get closer to nature. The park is also well designed for horse riding and mountain biking, so however you wish to travel you can do it your way. Of course if you opt for horse riding or mountain biking you will be able to cover more ground and see more in a single day.

Go to Pitigliano and wander along the Etruscan pathways

Regardless of whether you choose to stay in one of the villas in Tuscany near Pitigliano or not, you must make the trip there to see the ancient pathways that are a famous sight for the locals to see. Many tourists aren’t aware they are there, but the walk is worth it. They are described as caves, yet they are not covered over, so the sun streams in from the top. The deep paths were carved out by the Etruscans, and while no one really knows why they did it or even how they achieved such a task, it is fascinating to walk along them. You can see marks along the walls as you wander down these ancient and amazing paths.

Trek up a mountain

If you have never climbed a mountain before there are some good opportunities to do just that in this region. Mount Prado provides a worthy challenge that is worth completing, simply because it is the highest point in the region. It reaches up to beyond 2,000 metres and provides superb views of some of the Mediterranean islands once you reach the summit. You can expect to take several hours to complete the walk, so be sure you take plenty of refreshments and plan your journey back before setting out. Of course this is just one climb and one trek – there are many others that exist too. Monte Sumbra is an easier peak to climb while the Orecchiella National Park provides still more walks that are on flatter ground and thus better for beginners to tackle.

Regardless of which one of the villas in Tuscany you choose to stay in, there will be activities right on your doorstep. Plan a biking tour, go on a walking holiday or explore some of the national parks Tuscany has to offer. Your holiday can indeed be a very active one.

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialises in finding the perfect villas in Tuscany in Chianti as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Each villa is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Visit the thermal baths in Saturnia

If you have never experienced thermal baths before, make sure you don’t miss out on a visit to Saturnia. This is towards the southern end of Tuscany. Villas may not be too near to where the baths are, but it is worth the trip to make a visit here. The village of Saturnia itself dates back to ancient times and people have been taking advantage of the thermal baths for centuries. The hot springs are delightful and very relaxing, and are said to have many good results in terms of improving health. It might be worth a try!

Sample the finest examples of Renaissance Art at the Galleria degli Uffizi

Commonly known in English as the Uffizi Gallery, this is one of the most famous galleries in Florence. It holds what is generally accepted to be the best and most in depth collection of art from the Renaissance period. There are well over a thousand paintings here and you will find yourself overusing the word ‘masterpiece’ as you walk from room to room. Witness the beauty of Sandro Botticelli’s ‘The Birth of Venus’ and Caravaggio’s ‘Bacchus’ among others. The name of the gallery literally translates into ‘offices’, as this was the original intended use for the building. It may have retained its name but those who originally built it in the mid to late 1500s could not have envisaged how it would be used in the years to come.

Visit the city of Lucca

There are many towns and cities in Tuscany. Villas and other accommodations are available in all of them, but Lucca is well worth a visit whether you choose it as your holiday base or not. It dates back many hundreds of years and there are many signs today of its history. For example we can acknowledge the effect the Romans had on the city way back in 180 BC. Their street plan is still in use today and forms the modern grid of streets. But most importantly, you can see the walls of the original town as it existed back in Renaissance times. You can walk for nearly two and a half miles along the old walls if you wish, getting an idea of the scale of the city as it existed many centuries ago.

As you can see there is a lot to do in Tuscany. Villas can provide the perfect base from which to explore this stunning part of Italy, leaving no stone unturned in the process.

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialises in finding the perfect Tuscany villas in Chianti as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Each villa is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Between the years of 800 BC and 700 BC, a group of people called the Etruscans settled in Tuscany. They established themselves across much of what we now know as modern Tuscany, and when you visit the area today you can easily see many remains that are left from those ancient times. Be sure to choose one of the villas in Tuscany that will allow you to stay close to at least some of these amazing areas.

Visit the caves in Orvieto

While Orvieto is actually in Umbria, it is well worth paying a visit to see the stunning collection of caves and tunnels dating back to Etruscan times. The word labyrinth would not be overused in describing what lies beneath the modern day city. These underground sights can only be seen if you book a guided tour there, but it is well worth doing so to learn everything you can about the network of tunnels, caves and rooms that are underneath the city.

Visit the town of Volterra

This town has plenty of Etruscan ruins to share with its visitors, so if you are staying in one of the villas in Tuscany nearby, make sure you spend a day in Volterra. It boasts an acropolis and several tombs, which are sometimes spoken of as ‘Etruscan holes’ by those who live in the area. You should also make plenty of time to visit the Etruscan Guarnacci Museum, which can also be found in Volterra. It dates back as far as 1761 and has an amazing collection of items from Etruscan times, not to mention other periods in history.

Visit the remains of the ancient city of Vetulonia

Vetulonia as you see it today is very different from how it once was when the Etruscans lived there. However there are still many signs that remain of the people, including the original city walls. You can also see the necropolis that dates back as far as the 7th century, and hundreds of tombs were discovered here that date back to this time. You can actually see the remains of buildings along the roadside, and one house even has a terracotta pot that has survived the intervening centuries. It is built into the structure that remains of the house and you can see it today and imagine what it was once used for.

Wherever you go in in the region, and whichever of the villas in Tuscany you may decide to stay in, there will be Etruscan ruins and signs of this ancient civilisation very close to your doorstep. This is one of the true beauties of the area – the ability to provide both ancient and modern sights and things to do while you are on holiday there. Where will you head to first?

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialises in finding the perfect villas in Tuscany in Chianti as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Each villa is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Where on earth?

Chianti is in the foothills of Tuscany, Italy, and 14th century buildings bask in the sun. Golden light drops down, causing an ideal glow to veil the brick houses of the towns in Chianti. Villa rental in the area ensures that the traditional ambiance is maintained, and often the burgundy brick-clad buildings provide inspiration for budding photographers.

Where to snap

The town of Castellina is a tribute to the architecture of the Medieval era. La Rocca, a tower which dominates the town, is a photo opportunity must. The turrets that pierce the cloudless sky are a landmark of Chianti. Villa rental in the area also makes it surprisingly easy to stay for extended periods to snap the historic area in detail. In the surrounding cobbled alleyways, an easy stroll will take you past enchanting houses and churches. Be sure to take in the locals sipping their black espressos – black and white images of this will be a winner.

When to snap

The best photos are taken in the towns, between six and eight in the morning and four and six in the evening – due to the wonderful light at those times. The region is renowned for its vineyards and therefore the temperature is mild in the winter and very hot in the summer so plan accordingly depending on how you wish to portray the landscape. There are many opportunities for wonderful great landscape photos – in the winter there can sometimes be an early morning line of cloud punctuating the sky, adding depth to any photos.

How to snap

Locals in the area are approachable but the thought of a giant lens in their face may cause them to shudder in horror. Be sensitive and ask if you’re unsure. As a gesture you can offer to send them a copy via email or, if they are elderly, perhaps send a hard copy. For landscape shots, go low – take the buildings from a low angle giving the impression of grandeur, which an area like this warrants.

Where to stay

In Chianti, villa rental will allow you to stay in comfortable luxury. A range of options overlook the undulating scenery and will allow you to get snap happy even from your own window.

What to do

Besides taking photos of the landscape (don’t forget to go black and white and sepia) there are countless great wine tours of the area. Many Chianti villa rental accommodation options offer tours of the area and this is a wonderful way to relax and take a break from your camera.

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialise in finding the perfect Chianti villa rental in Chianti as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Each Chianti villa rental is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Walks

At this time, the flora and fauna appear delightfully in a way they don’t during the winter period. Beautiful wildflowers dot the surroundings as you spend balmy days walking outside your chalet. La Tania, being situated in the midst of some magical woods, gets even more picturesque in these seasons, with the fauna adding life to the surroundings. This is the time when one gets the chance of seeing red squirrels, marmots, chamois and more on nature hikes all around the area– something that you’ll hardly experience during winter! Trail maps are available in chalet and hotel information desks, or at the town information centre.

Swimming

Hardly an activity one expects to be doing in the Alps, but right outside the chalet, La Tania surprises people unfamiliar with the area with this option. With an outdoor swimming pool, where one can swim and sunbathe during the season of mild weather, the sports complex also offers facilities for other activities such as tennis, basketball, table tennis and more. This is a perfect site for family activities.

Mountain Biking

Next to skiing, this family-friendly resort seems to be tailor made for mountain biking. Right from the woodsy location of many a chalet, La Tania’s mountain bike paths offer great views of the ranges with all their spring or summer glory. There are many different bike paths to enjoy, with different levels of difficulty, and all offering their own distinct charm. There are maps available of the best paths or check out the town’s information office for alternative routes.

Paragliding

Whether solo or in tandem, the best view of the Alpine landscape is easily from beneath the wings of a paraglider! This resort is known as one of the best places to paraglide from in the whole of Europe. So if you’re looking for something truly memorable to do while here – you’ve found it!

Skiing (Of Course)

Just because it isn’t winter anymore doesn’t mean there isn’t any skiing or other snow activities to be had. Even in mid-April, in fact, should you wish to look for some fun skiing or snowboarding not too far from your chalet, La Tania may surprise you with some fresh powder on many slopes higher up.

Danielle Hodges is the Marketing Manager for Ski Amis, a specialist ski travel agency and booking service offering bonded holidays staying in a catered or self-catered chalet, La Tania and other fantastic destinations. For a luxury or good-value skiing holiday in the best chalet, La Tania is an ideal location.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Wondering where to go after a day of skiing and snowboarding? Here are a few of the favourites.

Apres Ski Fun: Pub Le Ski Lodge

The Ski Lodge has earned a reputation as the social centre of this resort, and rightly so. If you’re looking for a fun time and an evening out of the chalet, La Tania’s fun crowd will be found here! Its amazing drinks – the most famous of which is The Ski Lodge Cocktail– coupled with great entertainment [including live music from great bands, live telecasts on satellite on its screens and more], ensure unforgettable nights of fun and excitement. It’s not just a bar, however. The Ski Lodge is a great restaurant as well, offering generous helpings of wonderful pub fare at very reasonable prices.

Upmarket Lounging and Savoyard Specialities: La Taiga

If you’re looking for a more relaxing, upmarket establishment to enjoy after a day’s skiing, head on over to La Taiga, after dumping your gear and freshening up at the chalet. La Tania’s chill out resto-bar is frequented by an older and more sophisticated crowd and furnished with leather sofas, glass tables and a crackling fire. But don’t worry, it won’t be too quiet – there are still live bands playing here on occasion as well as rousing party night.

As for food, La Taiga also serves great meals at its restaurant, should you be craving to sample authentic Savoyard fare outside your chalet. La Tania’s signature meals such as the traditional fondue, raclette and tartiflette are best sampled here first– so you know what they should really taste like! As well, the menu includes other options like foie gras and modern salads.

More Savoyard Options: La Ferme

Another place to experience traditional, authentic Savoyard meat and cheese dishes, La Chanterelle offers all this and more, but specializes in crépes. Not to be missed!

Michelin-Starred Sophistication: Le Farçon

If you’re looking for a romantic dinner with impressively fancy dishes– or just a good reason to dress up and get out of your ski chalet– La Tania’s very own Michelin-starred restaurant is your best bet! Try out the tasting menu, which offers what seems to be a never-ending parade of small portions with amazing tastes and flavours, such as king prawns (in the mountains? Unbelievable!) with scrambled egg, freshwater fish in cream, snails in garlic cream and more. This is fabulous and innovative French cuisine in the middle of the French Alps!

Fast Food

Should you wake up with an unexplainable craving for a Big Mac or quarter-pounder inside your ski chalet, La Tania unfortunately won’ t be able to help. There is, however, a well known fast-food chain restaurant some 40 minutes outside the resort at Bourg St. Maurice. Inside the resort there are several places that offer wonderful burgers (as well as pizza) for lunch and dinner such as Le Chrome Bar, and of course, Pub Le Ski Lodge.

Danielle Hodges is the Marketing Manager for Ski Amis, a specialist ski travel agency and booking service offering bonded holidays staying in a catered or self-catered chalet, La Tania and other fantastic destinations. For a luxury or good-value skiing holiday in the best chalet, La Tania is an ideal location.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Where did the Resort Get Its Name?

The former name was La Tagna, which means ‘bear’s hideout.’ The spelling was changed to help visitors properly pronounce the name. But don’t worry– despite the wooded areas that surround the site of the main accommodations, you don’t need to worry about bears accosting you in your chalet. La Tania is safe, friendly, and bear-free!

Can I Walk Around?

Not only can you walk around, it is highly encouraged you get out on foot to explore. A car-free resort where almost everything is accessible by foot, you can find practically everything within a short walk from your ski chalet. La Tania’s small town centre offers many things you may want– from ski booteries, bakeries with fresh bread, a post office, a tabac, a small supermarket and your choice of bars and restaurants with great food and entertainment.

While it does not offer the same kind of busy, bustling nightlife found in other more cosmopolitan ski resorts, you’ll still find fun après-ski entertainment in the area to amuse you before retiring to your chalet. La Tania’s bars and restaurants offer live music, a great crowd, and even a rousing game of darts or billiards might be on the agenda once in a while!

Where’s The ATM?

There’s no need to worry about running out of cash and thus having to stay cooped up in your chalet. La Tania has all banking mod cons, including an ATM – it’s right at the corner next to the Post Office. Aside from that, there is a Currency Exchange inside the Post Office itself as well. And if that’s not easy enough for you, most bars, restaurants and shops take credit cards here so you won’t get caught short. (Surrounding resorts such as Courchevel 1850, Meribel and Mottaret have cash machines too.)

Speaking Of Other Resorts, How Do I Get Out?

If you’re wanting to get out and explore a little further afield, head on to the main road from your chalet– La Tania’s free ski bus will pass by every hour to take you out to Le Praz, Courchevel 1850. There is also a service to Meribel that runs about four times a day– check with the Tourism Office for timetables. There are also taxis and lifts that are quite easy to come by.

How’s The Skiing?

The skiing here is nothing short of great, of course! It has runs suitable for beginners, pros and everyone in between.

Danielle Hodges is the Marketing Manager for Ski Amis, a specialist ski travel agency and booking service offering bonded holidays staying in a catered or self-catered chalet, La Tania and other fantastic destinations. For a luxury or good-value skiing holiday in the best chalet, La Tania is an ideal location.

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Known as the “pearl of the Adriatic”, the spectacular coastline with its idyllic hidden coves, and tiny, barely-inhabited islands make for a wonderful experience while sailing. Croatia offers fantastic opportunities on the water, whether you are going on a cruise on a large chartered yacht, a catamaran, or even a small skif. Just imagine being able to swim in a new spot every day, tour historic ports and discover a world of new wonders on every stop of your journey! Sailing Croatia’s waters isn’t just suitable for avid sailors – it’s an activity that offers many different things to do. Here are just a few of the options available:

Unwind At Sea

The first option, of course, is the opportunity for pure, unadulterated sailing. Croatia’s stunning waters are the best vantage point from which to enjoy the stunning views of the coastline with next to no effort – it’s the perfect way to unwind and relax. A favourite among couples on honeymoon, families and older travellers, this relaxing activity allows you enjoy a leisurely pace without sacrificing the cooling swims in hidden bays, the opportunity to bask in history and culture at the different towns on stopovers, or enjoy the energetic nightlife (particularly in Hvar) if you should so wish!

Island Hopping

Of course, the next most obvious activity while sailing Croatia’s coastline is island hopping. Many tour specialists offer itineraries that allow visitors to explore the many must-see sights – meeting lots of new friends along the way.

One of the most popular routes for this type of cruise is the Dubrovnik to Split (or vice versa) route which offers stops at the different islands, including Hvar, with its exclusive bars and nightlife, and of course, the historic town of Split – as well as five World Heritage sites. Mijet can also be a stop, as can the island of Korcula, said to be the birthplace of Marco Polo. With its heady mix of history, culture and bustling action (read: parties!) sailing Croatia’s waters and stopping of is perhaps one of the best ways to see it.

Diving

Underwater adventures can be just as exciting as the experiences above the waves. Many people explore the beauty of Croatia’s wonders under the crystalline waters of the Adriatic while on a trip sailing. Croatia has no dearth of scuba instructors, as well as dive guides – so it’s an activity even beginners can enjoy.

Sail and Cycle

For the more active and adventurous visitor, cycling tours make a great complement to sailing. Croatia’s amazing mountain and countryside trails – ranging from easy rides to more challenging ones– allow more active holiday-makers to explore the natural beauty of the different islands and explore their historic wonders closely. Trails and quiet lanes off the beaten track offer vistas of olive groves, lavender fields and historic churches– providing a true feast for the senses with their sights, sounds and smells.

Naomi Wilson is the Product Development Manager for Activity Breaks, who offer exciting weekend breaks and activity holidays. If you’re looking for a holiday sailing, Croatia is ideal. We specialise in providing flexible holidays sailing Croatia and other fantastic holidays across Europe.

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In the past, many people tended to denigrate this Australian city as a foodie wasteland where the only things to eat were chips, burgers and beer. Those days have long passed– now one can count of a vast number of gourmet-level delights, whether within the restaurants inside one’s Sydney 5-star hotel or within the CBD and further afield.

Here are just a few of the wonderful choices to be had for fine dining should one deign to venture away from that luxurious Sydney 5-star hotel.

Becasse. Westfield Sydney, Level 5, Market St (Cnr Pitt St).
While Michelin still has not included Australia in its research and ratings systems, Sydney boasts a few establishments that are definite shoo-ins if they do! Becasse boasts opulent interiors – including Swarovski crystal light fittings and luxurious drapes – and even more luxurious food offerings from famed chef Justin North. It is now one of the most sought-after restaurants in the city. Among the most widely celebrated items on the menu are the confit miso blue-eye and smoked scallops, caramelised suckling pig, and the full-blooded Wagyu shin. Make sure you have the concierge at your Sydney 5-star hotel call for reservations– it can be hard to get in!

Tetsuya’s. 529 Kent St.
Another Michelin surefire shoo-in should they ever deign to issue a guide to the restaurants in Australia [hint, hint], this amazing restaurant in Kent Street, overlooking a Japanese Garden, is a perfect place to spend the evening away from your Sydney 5-star hotel. Chef Tetsuya Wakuda’s ever-evolving menu features complex flavours from Japanese and French cuisine merged in experimental combinations – definitely not to be missed. If you only have one chance to dine here, make sure to order the signature dish: confit of Tasmanian Ocean trout with konbu. Or, if you simply can decide, try the degustation menu which offers the best of the best.

Bistro Lilly. 168 Kent St., The Rocks
For a more relaxing, yet still oh-so-stylish, dining experience, Bistro Lilly offers dinner and more, either in the confines of an elegant dining room or a garden terrace – for whatever occasion you may wish to celebrate. A quiet, yet upscale hideaway in the historic Observatory Tower, you won’t have to venture far from your Sydney 5-star hotel to enjoy a romantic dinner for two, corporate lunch, or special celebration. Try Chef David Koorey’s signature five-course degustation menu paired with the best Australian wines.

If fine dining isn’t really your style, Sydney is also home to fun, relaxing places – particularly those that serve wonderful seafood. Try Wildfire or Waterfront for a start. If you fancy a juicy burger, fish and chips or other casual, yet yummy fare away from the luxury of your Sydney 5-star hotel, you’ll have an endless array of options.
Looking for a Sydney 5 star hotel? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for Worldhotels, a company offering the best rooms in a Sydney 5 star hotel and a selection of unique four and five star hotels around the world.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Here are a few of the best-kept secrets for shopping in the Italian capital. Whether you only have a few hours or a few days while staying in your luxury hotel in Rome, they’re sure to offer you a delightful diversion!

Religious articles.

Rome being, well, Rome, there is no dearth of religious articles to bring back home to your family and friends, Catholic or otherwise. Whether as religious pieces or works of art, you’ll find many of them in the stores close to St. Peter’s Basilica or Via dei Cestari by the Pantheon. These sites are a great way to venture out from your luxury hotel in Rome to explore the landmarks of early Christianity and Catholicism. Salustri is one of the most highly recommended stores where the goods are of high quality.

Wood Carvings.

Bartolucci’s by the Pantheon offers amazing woodcrafts and top-quality handmade souvenirs at a wide range of prices, from a few Euros to a few hundred.

Paintings.

It’s hard to come back from a trip to Italy without bringing back a painting or two… or five, or more. Especially when paintings are available by the side of the road – creations of unknown artists that are working in practically the same circumstances and environment as the Old Masters! Take a walk beyond the foyer of your luxury hotel in Rome and head on over to Piazza Navona, where many art pieces, particularly oil paintings and watercolours, are on display. Chat up a few of the artists, and feel like a world-wise art patron as you buy a couple of paintings from them! Tip: watercolours, of course cost less [anywhere from 10-15 Euros per painting], while oil paintings can run up to the hundreds– but are well worth it.

Murano Glass.

Along Corso di Renascimiento is a tiny shop where you will find the most wonderful jewellery pieces made of genuine Murano glass and 14-18k gold. Called Murano Piu, jewellery isn’t the only thing on offer– they also have sculptures, lamps and the like. You will want to schedule your visit here as close as possible to the end of the day– when you’re just about to head back to your luxury hotel in Rome–and ensure that you pack them in your shopping bags well.

Clothes and Shoes.

Okay, they’re not really souvenirs, but clothing and shoes are always good finds on any shopping trip. If you want well-made Italian fashion, without the outrageous prices often commanded by the top luxury brands, you’ll want to visit the markets as well as the little boutiques and shops, particularly on Via dei Giubonarri and off Campo de Fiori. Be careful though, you may find yourself unable to head back without a bulging bag of fashion pieces for yourself – choosing just a few can be very hard!

If you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Rome Worldhotels has a wonderful selection. Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for Worldhotels, a company offering the best choice for a luxury hotel in Rome and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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The Eden Project

The chance to visit a tropical jungle in the UK never fails to delight young visitors, and that is exactly what students on primary school trips can do at the Eden Project – among other exciting activities. This futuristic botanic garden consists of carefully controlled artificial biomes that house plants from all over the world, as well as seemingly endless outdoor gardens bursting with hundreds of plant species. Students can learn about the important role of botanic gardens in preserving plants, and about the ways plants and humans rely on each other. Eden has a great range of workshops and hands-on activities for primary school groups, and your students will come away bursting with new knowledge and ideas.

Newquay Zoo

With over 130 species of animal, the award-winning Newquay Zoo is one of the top zoos in the UK and draws visitors of all ages – and is especially great for primary school trips. With a penguin pool, big cat enclosures, colourful aviaries, a tropical house full of creepy crawlies, and much, much more, it lets students explore the weird and wonderful wildlife of the world and learn about the importance of conservation at the same time. Their Animal Encounters allow visitors to get up close with the animals, and young scientists will be able to get hands-on and learn fun facts with workshops on subjects such as minibeasts, adaptation, camouflage, habitat, senses, and endangered animals.

National Maritime Museum

Primary school trips to Cornwall would not be complete without a chance to explore the sea – this is the region with the UK’s longest coastline, after all. Luckily, the National Maritime Museum in Falmouth is full of exhibitions and activities focusing on boats and the sea. Beginning as a collection of sea vessels and other objects celebrating Cornwall’s maritime history, it has grown to encompass all kinds of exciting sea-related subjects. Highlights include the collection of boats showcased on the waterfront itself, collections of fascinating artefacts from maritime history, interactive galleries and an engaging programme of workshops on subjects as diverse as shipwrecks, boat-building, Vikings, Tudor exploration, and the moon and tides.

Angela Bowden works for EST (Equity School Travel), the UK’s largest educational travel company, providing primary school trips as well as those for secondary schools and colleges. School trips with EST can encompass a wide range of learning and more in worldwide destinations.

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NAUSICAA National Sea Life Centre

A whole marine world of discovery awaits at NAUSICAA, one of Europe’s most acclaimed sea life centres. With a shark aquarium, world ocean aquarium tropical lagoon, sea lion reserve, underwater forest, penguin beach and touch pool, it offers endless opportunities for exploration and wonder. It is also a great option for primary school trips, offering a comprehensive educational programme in English as well as French. Qualified activity leaders facilitate a range of interactive workshops on subjects as diverse as the deep-sea abyss, marine diversity, conservation and carbon footprints, the life of coral, and adaptation to survive. A multimedia library and online resource pack with pages on various types of marine life, ecology, and even pirates, make it easy to do preparatory or follow-up lessons and projects in the comfort of your classroom.

Bagatelle Theme Park

Primary school trips are many things, but foremost among them is fun! Located near Le Touquet, Bagatelle Theme Park is great for younger visitors with a range of gentler rides as well as some more challenging ones for the brave – but almost all of them are well-suited to a primary school group. Favourites include the rollercoasters, log flume, giant water slide, 360-degree cinema and carousel, and for variety there is also a petting zoo. Musical school groups can even book a performance slot!

Beussent Lachelle Chocolate Factory

What better way to treat students on primary school trips than to take them to a chocolate factory? The Beussent Lachelle factory is a respected producer of chocolate, serving Paris and its surroundings, and its dedication to chocolate makes it an eye-opening place to visit. Tours enable students to learn about the masterful techniques needed to manufacture quality chocolate, as well as discovering the history of cocoa, its cultivation and how the transformation from bean to chocolate is completed. There is also the opportunity to try some of the products, which is sure to make this a popular and memorable experience.

Angela Bowden works for EST (Equity School Travel), the UK’s largest educational travel company, providing primary school trips as well as those for secondary schools and colleges. School trips with EST can encompass a wide range of learning and more in worldwide destinations.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Yaks

The most iconic animal of the Himalayan region has to be the yak. These long-haired, wide-horned bovines have been kept by local cultures as beasts of burden (and for their milk and meat) for thousands of years, and these domesticated yaks often accompany Everest Base Camp trekking groups. The wild yak is considered extinct in Nepal, though it can still be found in Tibet – yaks are an important part of Himalayan life, and as one of the largest animals to live at high altitudes are always an impressive species to encounter. Their adaptations include larger lungs and hearts than bovines that live at lower altitudes, a greater capacity for transporting oxygen through the bloodstream, and almost no sweat glands – meaning they conserve much of their body heat.

Tahr

The tahr, or Himalayan goat, can be seen along many Everest Base Camp trekking routes. Tahr can be identified by their small horns, pointed ears and the red circles on their cheeks. To tell the difference between the sexes, look for larger individuals with slightly more developed horns – these are the males. They are natural mountain climbers, having hooves with a flexible core and hard, sharp rim that let them grip rocks or dig into thin footholds as required. They eat grass and shrubs, and leaves from low trees, and spend the summers grazing in high areas, forming herds in the lowlands in winter.

Birds

There is something inspiring for those engaging in Everest Base Camp trekking about the birds that can be sighted along the way. Proud and tough, they evoke a sense of solidarity in anyone who has taken up the challenge of reaching Base Camp. At ground level, look out for the well-camouflaged Tibetan snowcock: curious and friendly, these birds are known to wander happily through human settlements. Up above, look for yellow-billed choughs, ravens, migrating bar-headed geese, and the magnificent birds of prey that wheel in the skies – including the lammergeyer and Himalayan griffon.

Jude Limburn Turner is the Marketing Manager for Mountain Kingdoms, an adventure tour company who have run Everest Base Camp trekking itineraries for over 20 years. They now offer treks and tours worldwide, including destinations in North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Central and South East Asia.

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Trishaws

Those who want truly want to travel Burma-style will get plenty of opportunity in the towns where these trishaws are the main mode of public transport. Referred to locally as sai-ka (from the English ‘sidecar’), these adapted bicycles with passenger seats at the side have been around since the 1930s when they were introduced to Mandalay. Their success was such that the trams in both Mandalay and Rangoon stopped running, having lost so many customers to the trishaws. Fares will vary from town to town but are negotiable, and asking your holiday leader or fellow travellers should give you a good idea of the current rate.

Horse Carts

In many small towns and villages, it is still the norm to get around via horse-drawn cart – known in Burmese as myint hlei – which may feel slow to some but is nonetheless a delightful form of travel. Burma’s small towns, especially in the highlands, are picturesque and always interesting, and seeing them from a horse cart is a memorable experience in itself. In some towns you may also find ox-drawn carts. Another place where it can be fun to go by horse is in Bagan, where the ancient temples can be viewed at a leisurely pace from the comfort of a cart.

Boat

As those who have had the opportunity agree: one of the best ways to see Burma is from the water. With its fertile river network, canals and lakes, there are plenty of chances to do so; taking a river boat along the Ayeyarwady to see the plains of Bagan is an experience cherished by many, and there are plenty of other routes and types of boat available in this country with its long history of river travel. Burma also has some completely unique forms of water transport, worth seeing even if you don’t take them yourself, such as the fishing boats of Inle Lake. The Intha people, who live in floating villages on the lake, have developed a method of rowing whereby the fisherman stands one-legged on the stern, using his other leg to control a single oar – thus leaving a hand free to catch fish with a bamboo net.

Jude Limburn Turner is the Marketing Manager for Mountain Kingdoms, an adventure tour company who run tours enabling people to travel Burma. Operating in Asia for over 20 years, they now offer treks and tours worldwide, including destinations in North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Central and South East Asia.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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The animals of the Burmese Himalaya

While the animal life in the south is similar to that of Malaysia, Sumatra and Borneo, on holidays to Burma’s northern regions you can expect to find fauna of Indo-Chinese origin, and the animals of the Burmese Himalaya are much akin to those of Nepal and northeastern India. Walking in the mountains, you are most likely to encounter birds, reptiles and perhaps some monkeys and apes. Bird-watchers will have plenty of species to look out for, and may even be lucky enough to see the rare Gurney’s Pitta, while reptile and amphibian lovers should keep an eye on pools for freshwater turtles and a number of endemic frog species. Macaques are the most commonly sighted primates, but listen out for gibbons too. While sightings of most larger mammals are uncommon, you might pass through or near the habitats of a remarkable range of creatures, including fishing cats, civets, the Indian mongoose, the Himalayan bear, wild boar, elephants and even some big cats like leopards or tigers – although these prefer to keep their distance from human activity.

The vital role of conservation

If the trekking routes are rich in flora and fauna, just think how much richer the remotest areas of the region must be. Individuals or whole populations of endangered species have been discovered in the highlands, including sightings of the rare red panda. The barely-explored jungle valleys of the lowlands also have their share of protected species, particularly in the Hukaung Valley, which contains a wildlife sanctuary that is instrumental in conserving animals such as tigers and elephants, whose habitats are under threat in much of the region. The sanctuary also plays an important role monitoring biodiversity and conducting research into an area that could very well contain undiscovered species – all the more reason to treat these awe-inspiring forests with respect as you walk through them on holidays to Burma.

Jude Limburn Turner is the Marketing Manager for Mountain Kingdoms, an adventure tour company who run tours enabling people to enjoy holidays to Burma . Operating in Asia for over 20 years, they now offer treks and tours worldwide, including destinations in North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Central and South East Asia.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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The London Underground

The famous London Underground is perhaps the best way to get around the city when you are staying in a Hyde Park hotel. London has the oldest underground train system in the world, with the first section opening in 1863. It now comprises 11 lines and the Docklands Light Rail, making it one of the largest underground systems in the world. There are 270 stations currently on the Underground, meaning you can get to pretty much anywhere you need to using this system. Nearly all of the major attractions in the city are never far away from a tube station, and you do not have to worry about getting lost as it is easy to work out where you are.

London Buses

The red double-decker bus is an enduring icon of the UK capital, and you will see them all over the place. The bus network in the city dates back many years, and this is an ideal way to see the sights because you can look out of the windows as you travel. Buses can also take you to more places than the Underground system, so it may be a good idea to grab a timetable and plan some above ground routes by bus.

Reduce Your Travel Costs

Travelling in the capital can be quite expensive, but there are ways to minimise the cost of getting around. A single journey on the Underground currently costs £4, so it is best to opt for an all-day travel card if you intend to travel around to lots of the different attractions during your time in a Hyde Park hotel. London is divided into six zones for travelling, and you can purchase a single paper ticket that will allow you to travel on all of the trains, buses and the underground network for one price, which is a great option for sightseers. You can also buy a seven-day travel card if you are staying for longer. Alternatively, you may want to purchase an Oyster card which you can preload with money and then use for single journeys which are cheaper than paying the standard single rate. However, this is only a good option if you only intend to make a few single journeys each day.

Cycling

Another option you may want to consider to get around is cycling, and renting a bike is a good option when you stay in a Hyde Park hotel. London now has the Barclays Cycle Hire (BHS) scheme that launched in 2010, and this allows you to rent a bike from one of the many docking stations and use it to get around the city. You can use a credit or debit card to pay for it, and it could be a very interesting way to see even more of the sights during your stay.

Looking for a Hyde Park hotel, London? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for Worldhotels, a company offering the best rooms at Hyde Park hotels, London and a selection of unique four and five star hotels around the world.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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In fact, no matter what time of the year you choose to visit this luxuriant Caribbean island, there is always sure to be a celebration of some sort going on. Whether it is a New Year’s celebration, a boat regatta, carnival celebrations or a music festival, tourists occupying Grenada hotels will always find a festival or event to partake in while on holiday on the island.

Among the many celebrations peppering the Grenadan year – some quite familiar, such as New Year’s Day, Carnival and St Patrick’s Day – the most interesting are obviously those that are either directly linked to the indigenous culture or manage to inject a significant dose of it into an otherwise run-of-the-mill ritual. The cultural festival of Carriacou Marroon and the Rainbow City festival are examples of the former, while the Carnival – livened up by the colours and sounds of the Caribbean – epitomises the latter. Regardless of their nature, however, all these celebrations have one thing in common – whether experienced at ground level of from the window of one of the many Grenada hotels, they allow tourists to experience the best the island’s culture has to offer.

Sporting events are another popular fixture of Grenada’s cultural life. No less than three regattas take place throughout the year, each capturing the imagination of locals and tourists alike. A fishing tournament, taking place in January, highlights another of the island’s strong suits and attracts throngs of variably adept fisherman to the crystalline waters of the Caribbean sea. And then, of course, there are the public holidays (such as the Emancipation Day, which celebrates the abolition of slavery) and the more ‘common’ celebrations – yes, Christmas and Easter are also celebrated in the Caribbean!

These are, of course, just a few of the events ensuring that, in Grenada, hotels remain solidly booked all year long. Even if you happen to miss all of them, rest assured – the island will undoubtedly have a cultural event that you can partake in, regardless of the date of your visit!

Cheryl Matthews works for the Essential Hotel Collection, offering a handpicked portfolio of privately owned Grenada hotels. We have an intimate knowledge of every property and can provide the perfect Grenada hotels to make your island dreams a reality.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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For those on a high end budget in northern Jamaica, luxury hotel accommodation is in abundance, offering sheer lavishness to well-heeled travellers. Mid-range accommodation and budget hostels can also be found in Montego Bay and Negril. Accommodation on the north coast can often provide guided tours, or visitors can opt for a self-driven trip around the island.

If you opt for a self-driven tour, a one week holiday to Jamaica can take in these sights with four days left to go horizontal on a silky sand beach.

Day 1

Arrive in Montego Bay. This is where, in Jamaica, luxury hotel accommodation will woo you with the opulence. You can arrange a rental car at the airport and head out to a pre-booked hotel (best to do this if you’re going high-end, especially in peak season from mid-December to mid-April). Chill out on the beach for the rest of the afternoon or watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand (ask for single shots if you’re worried about driving the next day).

Day 2

Head east out of your hotel and stop at Rose Hall Great Hall, renowned for its previous inhabitant, the White Witch, a Haitian lady whose three husbands died suspiciously. The hall itself is a now a beautiful museum with gardens. Next, head on the A1 to Greenwood Great House, formally the lavish home to one of the wealthiest landowner families on the island, the Barretts. For a seafood lunch, drive to Falmouth, 37km from Montego, and delve into the island’s marine treasures. Spend the night back in your hotel in Montego.

Day 3

As you leave Montego, the northern town in Jamaica, luxury hotels will pass you by until you turn slightly inland. Go past Falmouth and inland to Duncans, and the little town of Rio Bueno. According to some, Columbus came ashore here in 1494, others claim Discovery Bay, your next stop, was the place.

For some beach time, head to Puerto Seco Beach and for a relaxed night, you can stay in Runaway Bay, just short of Ocho Rios, where the atmosphere goes livens up with cruise ships arriving and beach bodies tanning on stretches of white sand. You can then continue to the Bob Marley Centre and Mausoleum and then go back to Runaway Bay for more basic accommodation or to Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Luxury hotel accommodation awaits you plentifully here.

Cheryl Matthews works for the Essential Hotel Collection, offering a handpicked portfolio of privately owned hotels, such as the Jamaica luxury hotel the Jamaica Inn, ideal for weddings and honeymoons. We have an intimate knowledge of every property and can provide the perfect Jamaica luxury hotel to make your island dreams a reality.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Of course, they aren’t affordable for everybody and there are plenty of brilliant alternatives for those on more modest budgets. Whatever the state of your bank account, if you’re travelling all the way to the stunning Caribbean then you’ll want to make sure that you make the most of what is on offer around the island. Here is a brief rundown of some of the things that you might consider during your stay:

Golf at Montego Bay

The famous Montego Bay is an ideal location for a spot of golf, offering some of the most beautiful backdrops to the game to be found anywhere in the world. And they aren’t just nice to look at; you’ll find some of the most challenging golf courses in the western hemisphere. Many of the resorts offer all-inclusive packages, enabling you to enjoy real value for money when it comes to getting your golf yards in on the island. In Jamaica, luxury hotel packages including golfing facilities are amongst the most popular type available.

Be prepared to pay for the best Beaches

Large swathes of the island’s beaches have been privatised and are no longer under public ownership, having been snapped up by the larger of the local resorts. What this means is that if you aren’t a guest at the hotel, then you’ll need to pay a fee to enjoy the beach. Travel guides even suggest that some public beaches will charge where they think people will pay. The prices tend not to be too steep, and it will often meaning getting access to the finest beaches by any objective measure.

Agree on Prices beforehand

This is an extremely important tip, and don’t be afraid to negotiate. Whenever we’re on holiday it’s usually pretty obvious that we’re tourists, and there no exceptions to this in Jamaica. Luxury hotel residents might do what they can to blend in, but it really comes down to damage limitation if the more enterprising locals start to see dollar-signs in their eyes. Many countries around the world are famous for a tourist tax, and it can happen anywhere, so make sure that you negotiate a price before you agree to a taxi ride or sit down at a restaurant to eat. Make sure you confirm prices on menus that don’t show them and you will be able to enjoy a meal without the fear of a nasty surprise after dessert.

Cheryl Matthews works for the Essential Hotel Collection, offering a handpicked portfolio of privately owned hotels, such as the Jamaica luxury hotel the Jamaica Inn, ideal for weddings and honeymoons. We have an intimate knowledge of every property and can provide the perfect Jamaica luxury hotel to make your island dreams a reality.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Here are some of the top destinations on the island to help you choose the best place for you to book your Menorca villas in – or within a short drive.

Ciutadella

This is the main settlement in Menorca, and if you prefer to spend your time in a busier city than in a quiet fishing village then this is the place to visit. Even if you wish to stay in villas in quieter locations, it is wonderful to spend a day here, soaking up the atmosphere. Attractions here include the Cathedral of Menorca and the Plaza del Mercat, and if you visit in June then you may be able to enjoy the annual Festival of Saint John – one of the best festivals on the island.

Alaior

If you want to head somewhere inland then Alaior could be the perfect option. One of the main features of this quaint town is the peaceful Old Town, and you absolutely must not miss out on the delicious ice cream sold at the parlours throughout the town. If you feel a bit adventurous then there is a hill nearby which you can climb and it is not too strenuous. At the top you will find the Church of Santa Eulalia, and the views of the surroundings are well worth the trip.

Son Bou

Son Bou is a beautiful beach resort where you will be able to enjoy relaxation, great weather, historical treats and the longest beach in Menorca. There are many Menorca villas located here, and it makes for an ideal place to spend a holiday. You could take a trip to Cap de Penyes which is an ancient fortified village, or visit the Bronze Age settlement of Torre d’en Galmés which also boasts stunning views out over the ocean. Or of course you could just spend your time on the excellent beach and eating fresh seafood in the numerous restaurants.

Mahón

Mahón is a port town and one of the most popular places to stay or visit on a trip to the island. The port is one of the best areas to explore, and there are plenty of historical buildings to visit including the Fortress of Isabella II. A trip out to Rei Island, where you will find a Christian basilica, is also worth considering whilst you are here, and the Mare de Deu de Gràcia Festival in September is when the town comes to life – so if you are here during this then you will be in for a treat.

Brenda Jaaback is the Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you with a wide selection of great Menorca villas for your holidays. Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information.

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However, do not forget about Menorca’s interior. There are plenty of fascinating and beautiful places to discover inland, and any of the three options below could prove to be an excellent place to spend the day.

1. Alaior

Alaior is located about 12 kilometres from Mahon, and is a top place to visit when you are staying in Menorca. Villas can be found all over the island, and you will never be more than a short, easy drive from this pretty town. This is a popular destination for tourists, and people come here to enjoy the Old Town with its quaint winding streets. There is also an attractive town square, and you should make sure that you try some of the delicious ice cream sold at the parlour.

One of the main attractions here is the Pons Quintana shoe factory shop. These shoes are very high quality and you can get them here at much lower prices than anywhere else, so it may be worth stocking up during your visit. You may also want to take a trip up to the top of the nearby hill to visit the Church of Santa Eulalia, and there are also lots of ancient walkways in this area – ideal if you want to go exploring on foot.

2. Ferreries

Ferreries is the highest town in Menorca, located at 150 metres above sea level. It is also found right next to the second-tallest mountain on the island, S’Enclusa, which may prove to be a nice little excursion. Shoe making is an important industry here, as is furniture making, and you may be able to find some high-quality products if you look around. There is also a farmers’ market held twice a week that is very popular with locals as well as tourists. When staying in Menorca villas on the island, make sure you make the trip to visit the interesting Museu de la Naturam, and if you are in the town in August then you may be able to take part in the annual fiesta held for St Bartholomew.

3. Es Mercadel

Located nine kilometres from Alaior, Es Mercadel is right in the hills in the centre of the island. This ancient market town is characterised by its whitewashed buildings and peaceful atmosphere, but perhaps the biggest attraction for tourists is that it is situated at the foot of Mount Toro. At 357 metres high this is the highest point on the island, so head to the top for some outstanding views of Menorca.

Don’t Miss Out During Your Stay in Menorca

Whereas the coastal resorts may prove to be the main attraction for people staying in Menorca villas, don’t miss out on all that the island has to offer and make sure that you visit some of the attractions in the interior of the island.

Brenda Jaaback is the Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you with a wide selection of great Menorca villas for your holidays. Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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If you live in Fairfax, plumbers may be called upon to deal with any toilet-related problem. However, it you do not have a major blockage then you may be able to sort it out by yourself, even without having any plumbing experience. Here’s a quick guide on how to do just that.

Find Out Where The Problem Is

If you have other toilets in the house, go around to each of them and flush them to see if they are working or not. If they are still working with no problems, the chances are that you will not have to call on Fairfax plumbers to sort out your problem because it means that the issue is with that specific toilet rather than somewhere down the line.

Get Out the Plunger

If it is just the one toilet, start off your de-blocking efforts with a simple plunger. Put on some rubber gloves to protect your hands, and then stick the plunger down the toilet and make sure that the end is covering the waste outlet. Give the plunger a few pumps, and listen out for the noise it makes. You may find that a few pumps is all it takes, or you may need to carry on for longer. If the water suddenly starts to go down the pipe then you have probably sorted out the problem. If you end up pumping away for a long time with no result, it could be time to move onto the next weapon in your armory.

Move Onto the Rodding Auger

For deeper blockages, a rodding auger may be required. This is a flexible pole that has a handle at one end which operates a turning claw at the other end. Stick the claw end down the toilet pipe and push it along until it stops, which means you have reached the blockage. Then just give the handle a few turns and this should start to remove the blockage so that the water starts to drain away. If this does not work then you may have a more serious problem which may require calling on Fairfax plumbers to sort out.

More Serious Problems

If the problem is further down the line, it could be in the soil pipe or even in the drain run. Unless you have plumbing experience you may have a bit of trouble sorting it out yourself, and you will probably want to hire a plumber to clear it for you. In Fairfax, plumbers trained in clearing these types of blockages can be relied upon to clear your toilet and get it working again, so that may be the best course of action.

Sarah Saadoun works for HMS Plumbing, a family-owned business in Northern Virginia. If you’re looking for Fairfax plumbers Herve and his dedicated employees at HMS are proud to be serving the needs of residents and businesses. For expert Fairfax plumbers HMS Plumbing is your first choice.

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1. Son Bou

Son Bou is one of the most popular resorts for tourists heading to Menorca. Villas here are not hard to come by, and you should be able to find one located near to the wonderful beach, which is in fact the longest on the island. There are lots of things to do here besides the beach, however, including visiting the Christian basilica which dates back to the 5th century; heading to Torre d’en Galmés, a Bronze Age settlement, and enjoying some fantastic views from the top; and taking a trip to nearby Cap de Penyes, a fortified village dating back to the 4th century.

All in all, there are plenty of things to do here that make Son Bou one of the best locations in the whole of the island.

2. Santo Tomás

Santo Tomás is located on the middle point of the south coast, quite near to Son Bou. In fact, you could even walk between the two resorts if you feel like it. There are some great beaches here which are very popular with tourists, and these are protected by sand dunes – meaning you will not be affected by the wind. There is also a mini-golf course to enjoy when you can pull yourself away from the beach.

3. Cala’n Porter

Located to the east of Son Bou and about 20 minutes from the airport, Cala’n Porter is a small but very pleasant resort equipped with a good supply of shops, bars and restaurants. The beach is well protected by the cliffs, meaning you can enjoy some very peaceful and relaxing days here away from your Menorca villas, without having to worry about there being too many other tourists.

4. Cala Galdana

Cala Galdana is located to the west of Sant Tomás, and is another great beach resort on the south coast. Aside from the beach, which is just as good as any of the others on the coast, you may want to take a trip to Club Escola Menorquina, located nearby. You will find it on the road out to Ferreries, and the equestrian show that it puts on is one of the best on the island.

5. Tamarinda

Located on the southwestern tip of the island, Tamarinda is a small and picturesque harbour and a great place to stop off for a while. Although it may not be ideal for booking Menorca villas unless you are looking for somewhere very quiet, it may still be a good place to visit and there are plenty of excellent restaurants here.

Explore the South Coast

The south coast of Menorca offers a lot to visitors who are keen to discover more about this unique island. The above five locations are just a few of the options for places to visit when you are booking Menorca villas, so think carefully about which ones you might to see when you arrange your holiday.

Brenda Jaaback is the Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you with a wide selection of great Menorca villas for your holidays. Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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This can be a major mistake, because there are some plumbing problems that, whilst they may seem minor, can actually lead to some serious problems if left alone. Here are three such problems of which you should be aware.

1. Burst Pipes

Burst pipes can be a real nightmare. When it gets really cold and the pipe freezes they can expand and crack, and although this may not at first seem too serious, when the water thaws it will start to drip and this can lead to some serious problems such as dampness and serious structural damage. If you do not give it urgent attention, the damage to your home or building can be severe, so make sure you get any pipes checked out by trained Fairfax plumbers as soon as possible if you realize that you have burst one. It is also a good idea to make sure that you try to prevent burst pipes from occurring in the first place. You can do this by keeping your heating on a very low setting during the night on the coldest nights of the year, and this will help to prevent the water from freezing.

2. Blocked Toilet

A blocked toilet may be seen as an annoyance rather than anything particularly damaging in your property – after all, no one wants to live with a toilet that doesn’t work. However, the longer you leave it, the worse the problem will become. This could lead to problems with hygiene, and whereas it may only be blocked at first, if you leave it then it may soon start to leak. Fairfax plumbers should be called to deal with the problem before this happens and you will save yourself a lot of grief by making that call as soon as you notice a problem – so never leave it too late. Also, make sure you do your best to prevent your toilet from becoming blocked in the first place by not flushing things which don’t belong down there.

3. Dripping Faucet

A dripping faucet can drive you mad, but it can also lead to more serious problems if it is left alone for too long and you put off calling Fairfax plumbers. Wastage of water is a very serious issue that you do not want to have to deal with, and it can be costly if you have a meter. But on top of that, if you go away for the weekend and your tap is dripping, you may return home to find that the sink has overflowed and your kitchen or bathroom has been flooded – and that will be a lot more difficult to sort out.

Sarah Saadoun works for HMS Plumbing, a family-owned business in Northern Virginia. If you’re looking for Fairfax plumbers Herve and his dedicated employees at HMS are proud to be serving the needs of residents and businesses. For expert Fairfax plumbers HMS Plumbing is your first choice.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

The city will have sunk beneath the waves in another 50 years

No, it won’t! It is true that the city is submerging but the rate is slow (experts debate about how fast it is) and some argue that it can be reduced or possibly even stopped altogether.

Of course, this is not to trivialise the position and, even from the Venice airport boat, you may see examples of listing buildings. This is a serious problem.

Venice was a great Roman city originally

No, it wasn’t – at least in terms of how we normally regard Roman cities in the west of Europe. The traditional (and disputed) foundation date for the lagoon city is towards the end of the western Roman period. In fact, some believe that refugees from the collapsing Roman Empire in the west founded it. It became a powerful city in the medieval period.

The King of Venice was called the Doge

Unfortunately, it’s no again! The Doge was a senior official of the Venetian Republic who was typically elected for life. They were never called ‘King’ and the position was not, strictly speaking, hereditary.

This city once ruled all of Italy

In fact, the city’s land ‘empire’ was largely overseas and outside of Italy. This was built mainly for trade purposes. Lands were controlled in other parts of Italy, though in some cases this was through treaty and with the general, if grudging, agreement of some of the local people.

It never controlled the majority of Italy, though it was, for a period, arguably by far the most powerful city-state there.

The city was never conquered

By contrast, Napoleon conquered the city in the late 18th century and thereby ended its very long history of independence. In its earlier history, it had acknowledged a largely notional allegiance to the Eastern Roman or Byzantine Empire based in Constantinople.

All Gondoliers spontaneously sing

Well, you can check that with the crew of your Venice airport boat service about their colleagues but don’t count on it! There are many varied stories about how this idea came into being, with some attributing it to antiquity and some to as late as Hollywood and the 1920s!

Of course, to promote tourism, and if the mood and a gratuity are right, who knows what may happen?

Everything here is expensive

No, that’s not necessarily the case. This is a large and thriving city and not all areas of it are natural centres of tourism. Of course, as you might find in any of the great tourist centres of the world, prices in the most central and popular tourist spots may reflect the location you’re in. If you are looking for reasonable prices for goods, food or services, look to go outside of the prime tourist spots. You may find that further information on this might be available where you board your Venice airport boat.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Venice airport boat , Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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How far is it from arrivals to the Venice airport boat service?

Not too far – assuming that you’re arriving at the main Marco Polo airport – say around 500 metres. From there, the craft will get you speedily into the city.

Do the boats go directly to the hotels?

It depends. Some boats may take you personally to a specified location but others may be a shared service dropping off at specified points. Keep in mind that not all hotels necessarily front onto a canal or waterside location.

Do you need to use water craft once you’re in the city?

It depends upon where you’re going and what your interests are, but water taxis or buses may be essential for some journeys apart from the Venice airport boat transfer. This is one of the great charms of this magnificent city – and of course, no visit to Venice would be entirely complete without a trip in a Gondola!

Is Venice really sinking?

This has been a hot topic of scientific debate for a long time but most sources conclude that it is. There are many reasons for this and the Italian government is taking steps to try and address some aspects of the problem, however, your visit is unlikely to be affected by this centuries-old problem.

Why is Venice sometimes called a Republic?

The country we call Italy is a relatively recent creation of the mid-19th century. Prior to that, many areas of Italy were independent city-states or regions. For centuries, Venice was one such and during parts of the middle ages was in fact a world power in its own right. The city is still sometimes affectionately known as “The Serene Republic” though it is now an integrated part of modern Italy.

Are transport prices regulated?

Italy is a democracy and operates under a free market economy – and that includes the water city of course. As such, prices may vary and are largely governed by competition. Having said that, the government and local authorities may regulate certain prices such as some local transport systems etc.

What are the Sestieres?

These are essentially ancient medieval divisions of the city into what are perhaps best thought of as ‘neighbourhoods’. There are rivalries between these and they are represented in much art and local heraldry.

Are there beaches?

Yes! The Lido is essentially a huge beach, reachable by waterbus from the city itself. There are others that are less well known and which may be quieter.

Is the city busy?

The city is one of the world’s major tourist attractions and in peak summer season it may indeed be busy. Some people say that the city is at its best out of season. Yet such thoughts are unlikely to bother you if you’re a first-time visitor heading into the city on the Venice airport boat for the first time. You’re likely to be too awe-struck to think about how busy it may or may not be!

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Venice airport boat , Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Venezia – La Repubblica Serenissima

At one time a serene and powerful independent state, Venice is sometimes described as the world’s most beautiful city. Built on a number of islands or shallow water areas in a lagoon, the sea has always played an important part in the city’s cultural and economic development. As is now commonly accepted, today and in the future, the sea may also be something that puts the city’s survival at risk. Yet few can argue that the systems of canals and water-crossings make this city unique and something that simply has to be experienced. That is why the Marco Polo Venice airport boat service just might get your holiday off to the right start, by whisking you to your hotel (or a central location) through the great water arteries of the city. You’ll immediately get a sense of what so much of the city is about.

History

Nobody is entirely sure when people first settled in the area though certainly this was in antiquity. Tradition suggests that the city’s foundation proper began in the 5th century when refugees from the “barbarian” invasions of the remnants of the Western Roman Empire migrated into the lagoon’s islands for reasons of security. Over the following centuries, the city grew and expanded due mainly to trade though conquests in both Italy and the wider Mediterranean also helped.

Perhaps the city’s zenith was in the late Medieval and Renaissance periods when it became one of the major centres of European art and science, though it’s tremendous influence on art and culture remained through to the 18th century. It is from these periods that some of Venice’s most beautiful buildings and plazas originate, and you may catch sight of some of them if you come into the city on the Venice airport boat service.

Getting around

The best way to explore Venice is on foot, though of course this may be constrained when you come up against a canal or the sea! It is here that once again you may wish to take to a boat or water taxi in order to move on. Water taxis around Venice are licensed, subject to standard tariffs and relatively regular. The waterbus services may be less flexible in terms of their destinations (they typically go point-to-point) but are a great way to get around and get a feeling for the city and its culture. So, if you want to start enjoying the sights as fast as you can and to start your visit in an authentic fashion, a Venice airport boat service might be a logical first step.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Venice airport boat , Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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In this regard, groupage and return loads have been gaining increasing importance as a means for hauliers to make their journeys a touch more profitable. However, these practises are not exclusively beneficial for individuals – companies can benefit from them as well, namely to save on transport costs and booking fees.

Groupage

‘Groupage’ is the practice whereby any number of smaller or lighter items are combined together into one larger shipment, rather than shipped separately one or two at a time. The advantages of this service to both drivers and enterprises are immediately apparent. The former make more money on a single delivery, while saving up on the fuel that would otherwise be needed for the several trips back and forth. Companies, on the other hand, only need to book and pay for haulage services once, which considerably reduces the hassle while allowing the business to save the money required to cover repeat booking fees and haulier journeys.

Return Loads

Return loads are any loads picked up by a driver on their way back from another delivery. So, if a driver were to take a shipment from Portsmouth to Newcastle, he or she could then pick up another delivery on the way back, thereby making their journey a ‘2-for-1’ in terms of deliveries and getting better return on investment for both themselves and the company.

Picking up return loads is a perfectly legitimate, and very cost-effective, practice and it is often logged by the companies themselves. This way, they can save up on fuel while still providing top-notch services and answering all their calls. At the business end, this practice is not really impactful (unlike ‘groupage’), but for a haulage company, it may well mean a few more pounds saved at the end of the month.

It becomes evident, then, that ‘groupage’ and return loads are important instruments in a haulage company’s struggle for survival in present-day economy. It is therefore unsurprising to discover that more and more of them are adhering to these practices as a rule of thumb.

Norman Dulwich is a Correspondent for Haulage Exchange, the leading online trade network for the road transport industry across the UK and Europe. It provides services for matching return loads and to buy and sell road transport and delivery work in the domestic and international markets.

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This is why, in recent years, more and more individuals with driver’s licenses and large-boot vans have been dabbling in the world of freelance parcel delivery. While courier jobs in larger-scale companies are on considerable offer – the sector continues to be one of the least problematic as far as employment is concerned – some drivers are turned off by the policies enforced by such entities, or attracted by the undeniable appeal of managing their own salary, tips, and working hours.

If you are one such driver, and you are unsure of how to go about charging for your courier jobs, this article will provide a few tips that may help you solve that particular problem.

Pricing freelance courier jobs, like pricing any other type of freelance job, is not a haphazard matter. You should not just set prices at random, and neither should you have one fixed price for all of your jobs, regardless of their nature. It is important that you make a clear distinction between different types of services, and that you clearly outline these distinctions, and the prices associated with each of them, when advertising your services or replying to enquiries.

A good starting point when learning how to price your courier jobs would be to research how different companies price their services, and get a sense of what ballpark their pricing lists fit into. You can then work out your own pricing table based off these values. You should also remember to base your pricing criteria around factors such as distance travelled, sizes and weights of the items being carried, time consumed in the delivery, etc.

Other factors you may want to take into account when devising your pricing list revolve around oversized items (these should be taxed with an extra charge) and possibly a discount rate for frequent customers, which will help you develop, and build a rapport with, a faithful clientele, which may very well ensure a large portion of your livelihood in the near future.

As you can see, then, devising suitable charging rates for your parcel delivery services is not an impossible task – but neither should it be taken lightly. By following the tips outlined above, you will hopefully find a price range that will both ensure your financial stability and please your clientele!

Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Courier Exchange, the world’s largest neutral trading hub for same day courier jobs in the express freight exchange industry. Over 2,500 transport exchange businesses are networked together through their website, trading jobs and capacity in a safe ‘wholesale’ environment.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Look Out for the First Signs

The first sign of trouble when it comes to gas is often detected in the smell of the air. The smell of gas is very distinctive, and you probably already know what it’s like. If you do not know what gas smells like, but you can smell something unusual in the air and you think it might be gas, then any Fairfax plumbers who also specialize in gas will tell you to take the same precautions as if you know it is gas for sure. The gas smell does not have to be very strong, and even a weak smell can signify a larger problem. So if in doubt, treat it as dangerous.

Shut Off the Gas

You should have a place in your home where you are able to shut off the gas immediately. If you do not know where it is, ask someone else in the house who may know and note it for the future. Fairfax plumbers with training in gas leaks recommend that it is a good idea to prepare for a potential leak by knowing in advance where this shut-off is located.

Open the Windows

Gas is more dangerous when it is condensed into a small space, and you should therefore try to get some ventilation into your home if you suspect a leak. Do not spend any more time in your home if you feel it is too dangerous, but if you have time then open as many windows as you can. Even if you can only open one or two windows then this will help to disperse the gas.

Get Out

Don’t hang around any longer than necessary inside your home. Once you have turned off the gas and opened the windows, get out and get anyone else out as well. Also alert any neighbors living nearby in case they also want to leave their properties.

Call the Experts

To confirm the leak and fix it, you need to call a licensed professional who is trained in detecting leaks, and this should not be hard to find if you live in Fairfax. Plumbers located here often have training in detecting and fixing gas leaks, so it is good to have the number of a plumber in advance who you can call immediately.

They will then arrive at your property and carry out a search for the leak, and once they find its source they will perform the repairs to make sure your home is safe once again. Always make sure when you hire Fairfax plumbers for this type of job that they are professional, insured, and fully trained in carrying out the repairs, because anything involving gas can be very dangerous.

Sarah Saadoun works for HMS Plumbing, a family-owned business in Northern Virginia. If you’re looking for Fairfax plumbers Herve and his dedicated employees at HMS are proud to be serving the needs of residents and businesses. For expertFairfax plumbers HMS Plumbing is your first choice.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.
Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

If you’re interested in having your kids involved in MMA, Fairfax Virginia, is a great place to learn about different styles and participate in many activities involved in MMA. Fairfax, in fact, is located near Northern Virginia’s first MMA academy, Trident Academy of MMA. Fairfax also has world-class facilities for sports, and is a favorite site for sporting events. Instructors offer a wide variety of exciting martial arts, including Jeet Kune Do, Filipino Martial Arts, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Combat Submission Wrestling, as well as some special locally developed hybrid martial arts.

Self-defense

Let’s face it, it’s a dangerous world out there and we need to protect our children as best we can. This includes teaching them how to cross the street, not to talk to strangers, and to be able to call 911. Martial arts classes do not teach violence – however, they do teach children about personal safety and how to deal with violence when they are confronted by it. The disciplines can help teach children to be alert to potentially dangerous situations, assess these situations calmly, and hopefully avoid them. In worse-case scenarios, kids can utilize strategies for self-defense – but only as a last resort.

Health Benefits

Child obesity is rising in the US. Access to junk food, the popularity of video games, and the sedentary lifestyles of their parents all affect the health of children negatively. The benefits of regular exercise to both adults and children are widely known, and practising MMA is a fun and exciting way for children to build their stamina, coordination, reflexes, hand/eye coordination, balance, and other physical attributes. It also helps them learn the strengths and limitations of their bodies, building a healthy respect for their health that should translate into better diets and less unhealthy habits as adults.

Discipline

The root of all martial arts is discipline, both physical and mental. Studies show that children who grow up to be successful people learn self-control at an early age. Thus, enrolling your kids in MMA [Fairfax or anywhere else] can help instil discipline, commitment, focus, and a competitive spirit, all of which are tools for your child’s future success. Competitions are not only about winning, they are about sportsmanship, respect, excellence, challenging yourself, and, most importantly, fun!

Confidence

While learning MMA, children face challenges, both physically and mentally. Meeting these challenges, feeling themselves grow stronger, and advancing in their training can build the confidence of children and prepare them for the realities of the outside world. Self-confidence also helps children relate to other children better, helping them grow into happier, more well-adjusted adults.

If you’re looking to learn Martial Arts, Pat Tray is chief instructor at the Trident Academy of Mixed Martial Arts. It is the premier training and instruction centre for MMA, Fairfax and surrounds. The Trident Academy is a perfect base to study Jeet Kune Do, Filipino Martial Arts, Combat Submission Wrestling and Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu, bringing together the best martial arts instructors from across the NOVA and DC area.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Fairfax and history
This town and surrounding county is consistently rated as being amongst those with the highest quality of life in the entire USA. The history is also amongst some of the most colorful in the country, going back centuries to the earlier colonial period and the 17th century award of vast areas of Virginia by King Charles II to his followers. This was quite ironic given that, at the time, England was a form of military republic without a king and Charles was in exile without a country to rule! The point of this for Fairfax, plumbers and possibly your property, is that this area has been long settled and by US standards, may have some interesting old legacy properties.

Old property – blessing or curse?
Relatively few colonial period properties survive when considered as a percentage of the whole, but those from the 19th and earlier 20th centuries may be a little more commonplace. If you live in an old property, or ever have done, you may know only too well that it may be a mixed blessing. On the positive side, you have perhaps period features, high ceilings, quality fittings and so on. On the downside, you may have a multitude of problems and potential problems, lurking just out of sight behind walls or under boards etc. This, of course, just might include your plumbing.

Why?
In and around Fairfax, plumbers will tell you that they have encountered some weird and wonderful plumbing solutions in areas relating to water supply, waste disposal and eccentric heating solutions. Now, of course, if you or previous owners have fully renovated your plumbing systems then you may be able to relax; but if you haven’t, it might be time to think about things a little.

Old plumbing and heating systems should be subjected to regular inspections and preventative maintenance. Yes, that might also be said of more modern systems, but it is particularly important with systems that go back further than, say, 30 years or so. If your plumbing (or parts of it) goes back to before the mid-20th century, it might be advisable to have it completely surveyed and to reduce risks, you may also wish to consider replacing parts of it with more modern materials and solutions.

It aint broke!
Fairfax plumbers tend to operate in two modes – dealing with plumbing catastrophes or preventing them. Many of them will have no hesitation in explaining to you just how much easier and more cost-effective it may be to operate in the latter mode rather than the former! So, if you have an old property, it might be that the plumbing all seems fine – but it always will until something goes badly wrong. Therefore, even if you’re unsure of what your plumbing is doing, it might be advisable to contact some Fairfax plumbers and ask them to do a quick survey for you. It might be a modest sum of money well invested!

Sarah Saadoun works for HMS Plumbing, a family-owned business in Northern Virginia. If you’re looking for Fairfax plumbers Herve and his dedicated employees at HMS are proud to be serving the needs of residents and businesses. For expertFairfax plumbers HMS Plumbing is your first choice.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.
Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Why are martial arts needed?

In one sense, every well-trained practitioner of martial arts sincerely hopes that their skills will never need to be deployed in a conflict situation. It is a myth that these disciplines have their origin in aggression and fighting objectives – in fact, they stress the need for self-control, respect for others and the advantages of walking away rather than seeking or even confronting trouble.

Those who are unable to accept this guiding principle may find that their instructors are unwilling to train them. That is why in the martial arts, there is such a great emphasis on the mastery of your own emotions and negative urges. Yet unfortunately, we do not live in a world where it is always possible to avoid trouble or be able to reason with those who intend us harm. In such situations, being able to assess and respond proportionately to aggression from others may save us from injury or serious harm.

How do martial arts help?

At the Temple Of Apollo at Delphi, the ancient Greeks inscribed above the doorway “Know Thyself”. This is a powerful concept and one that the martial arts build upon. They will teach you to understand your fears, your strengths, your weaknesses and your body. They then teach you a range of techniques designed to improve your control over your emotions and your body. These eventually are combined into techniques used to anticipate and counter threats should they arise, thereby helping to preserve your health and well being.

What is MMA?

There are a large number of individual martial arts disciplines that have their origins in different parts of the world. Traditionally, these disciplines were considered largely independent and rigidly structured to avoid “outside influences” and to keep them pure.
Yet this led, in some cases, to opportunities to learn from other martial arts disciplines being lost or overlooked.

Today, if you’re learning MMA, Fairfax tutors will stress the evolutionary nature of martial arts and the way that some have merged and absorbed a multiplicity of techniques from other disciplines. For example, the legendary Bruce Lee is sometimes misleadingly described as a “Kung Fu” expert. In practice, he studied many martial arts and eventually adopted a hybrid more flexible and free-flowing style referred to as Jeet Kune Do.

In the case of MMA, Fairfax instructors may look at a range of techniques including Jeet Kune Do, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muai Thai. The objective is to consider the martial arts holistically – and the students likewise. One of the advantages of studying MMA is that you may find that your self-confidence levels increase, and, sometimes, giving off an air of self-confidence may, in itself, help avert trouble.

So, if you’d like to know more about MMA, Fairfax tuition and how it might benefit you, it might be time to make the effort to pick up that phone!

If you’re looking to learn Martial Arts, Pat Tray is chief instructor at the Trident Academy of Mixed Martial Arts. It is the premier training and instruction centre for MMA, Fairfax and surrounds. The Trident Academy is a perfect base to study Jeet Kune Do, Filipino Martial Arts, Combat Submission Wrestling and Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu, bringing together the best martial arts instructors from across the NOVA and DC area.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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The fun factor!

So, you might ask, what’s the main reason you should practise Karate? Woodbridge students will all agree on one prevailing point: Karate can be enormous fun! It’s a great opportunity to socialise with people who share a common interest. Surprisingly, throwing a fellow practitioner around on the Dojo’s mats for a few hours can build the foundations for a long and lasting friendship. Also, you can never underestimate the fun to be hand in relieving your pent-up stress by punching and kicking.

Health benefits

Just how far can you enhance your general well-being by practising Karate? Woodbridge students, and indeed those from all around the world, have found that the positive repercussions of the martial arts can be manifold. Health-wise, the best thing about Karate is that it combines a fantastic blend of many different types of exercise. When they practise Karate, Woodbridge students enjoy a cardiovascular, endurance, strength and flexibility workout – all in one enjoyable session!

Respect

Attending Karate classes can help you learn the value of respecting others as well as yourself. Its militaristic origins have grounded the martial art in discipline. Thus, there is a ranking hierarchy with regards the belts (from white to black), as well as a strong sense of etiquette. For example, at the beginning of a class, it is customary for all students to bow to their Sensei, or instructor.

Time to get motivated!

Soon after their first lesson in Karate, Woodbridge students will find they become far more determined. The belt hierarchy, for instance, breeds in martial arts pupils a desire to reach the top belt, and they will foster great goal-setting and self-motivation habits in the process. Reaching a black belt is not something you can achieve overnight, so this also helps students learn the importance of patience. Instructors will always be on hand to assist their students reach their goals safely and sensibly.

If you’re looking to learn Martial Arts, Pat Tray is chief instructor at the Trident Academy of Mixed Martial Arts. It is the premier training and instruction centre for martial arts, including Karate, Woodbridge and surrounds. The Trident Academy is a perfect base to study Jeet Kune Do, Filipino Martial Arts, Combat Submission Wrestling and Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu, bringing together the best martial arts instructors from across the NOVA and DC area.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Don’t mix-up hot water and heating systems
Some heating systems use hot water, and that water may contain a variety of retardants, inhibitors and other chemicals, in order to reduce corrosion in pipe work or radiators. Some of these may not be exactly pleasant, so don’t try and run a feed off your heating system to a domestic hot water outlet like a shower – unless you’ve taken professional advice from Fairfax plumbers beforehand.

Don’t skimp on materials
Water under pressure isn’t an easy substance to work with. Professional plumbers know that certain minimum specifications are required for the material used in certain situations (e.g. their pressure ratings). As a general rule, the higher the spec of materials, the more they may cost. Yet don’t be tempted to use cheaper or sub-spec materials just to save a few dollars, as it may prove to be a major false economy if they fail once in place.

Don’t skimp on tools
The DIY market is awash with cheap but poor quality plumbing tools. At best, these are likely to break and prove useless at the point when you’re trying to use them. At worst, they may ruin the materials or fitting your working with and that’s going to result in more expense and emergency calls to Fairfax plumbers. So, spend a few dollars more and get quality tools for the job.

Do your research
Learning on the job might be appropriate in some situations, but usually that’s under professional supervision and guidance. Launching into a larger plumbing job and trying to ‘muddle through somehow’ without knowledge or experience, might be described as being brave to the point of recklessness. If you are thinking of a job that’s a bit more ambitious than a typical domestic repair, make sure that you research it and take advice from a professional first.

Respect boundaries
There may be a number of situations where water systems have boundaries of responsibility or ownership: the point where the mains supply enters your property; waste systems (or perhaps water systems) running across land boundaries; situations where water flows between apartments in a single building. It’s a seriously bad idea to start hacking around with main supply systems on the other side of your boundary – unless you want to create a major incident and end up in litigation. It’s also potentially a major problem if you create troubles for neighbors due to your plumbing escapades – as you may discover when they’re irately hammering on your front door.
So, these areas are best avoided and again, if in any doubt, call professional Fairfax plumbers for advice beforehand.

Sarah Saadoun works for HMS Plumbing, a family-owned business in Northern Virginia. If you’re looking for Fairfax plumbers Herve and his dedicated employees at HMS are proud to be serving the needs of residents and businesses. For expertFairfax plumbers HMS Plumbing is your first choice.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.
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The Graceful Crane
The crane is admired by students because of its outstanding elegance and serenity. Those that practise Karate – Woodbridge and elsewhere – are taught to replicate its excellent balance and explosive power at short range. The crane works at its enemies from a distance, and often circles softly while contemplating its next strike.

The Wise Dragon
Martial arts students draw on the cunning strategy of this mythological beast. They attempt to mirror the dragon’s complex zigzagging movement and this consequently helps the students to develop their inner strength. The dragon is renowned in China for its ability to ‘ride the wind’ and is also bestowed with a profound spiritual dimension.

The Agile Leopard
More exact and discerning than the wild and savage tiger, the quick and agile leopard influences all types of martial arts including Karate. Woodbridge students learn from an early stage that channelling the animal’s relaxed whip-like movements and speedy reflexes in their training is the key to building a solid foundation in the martial arts.

The Powerful Tiger
The large tiger is cruel and aggressive. It represents the ‘alpha-male’ type figure of the five Shaolin animals. It specialises in locking and breaking movements as well as vicious trips and stamps, and it doesn’t rest until its enemy is completely ruined. However, the tiger is also celebrated for his courage and tenacity under fire.

Snake
The snake is very important to Karate. Woodbridge students will learn that its distinctive fighting style is cunning, sneaky and very deceptive. When channelling the fighting style of the snake, the martial arts practitioner becomes extremely crafty and deadly in the way he or she goes for the vital nerve-centres on the body of their opponent, such as the eyes, armpits and throat.

If you’re looking to learn Martial Arts, Pat Tray is chief instructor at the Trident Academy of Mixed Martial Arts. It is the premier training and instruction centre for martial arts, including Karate, Woodbridge and surrounds. The Trident Academy is a perfect base to study Jeet Kune Do, Filipino Martial Arts, Combat Submission Wrestling and Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu, bringing together the best martial arts instructors from across the NOVA and DC area.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Well, not any more.

In fact, couples enjoying their St Lucia honeymoons this coming May will have a chance to experience what it is like to have a Hollywood honeymoon, right down to the music. Throughout the whole month, the island will be celebrating what has become its prime musical event (and one if its leading cultural events overall), the St Lucia Jazz Festival.

Starting out as merely a way to boost tourism within the island, the Jazz Festival has found surprising success with the locals, who have turned it into a full-fledged celebration, with strong ties to the island’s cultural customs and traditions. And lest you think this is no more than just another small-scale, quaint local festival, the star power of the event’s headliners in recent years should say otherwise. This year, for example, the SLJF will be headlined by none other than legendary diva and producer Diana Ross, with Grammy award winner Toni Braxton adding extra international appeal. Both names will undoubtedly serve as a perfect backdrop to the romantic evenings of couples enjoying St Lucia honeymoons – not to mention that a visit to the festival itself may make for a more than adequate romantic date!

But those are not the only big names making an appearance at the 2012 Jazz Festival. Other recognisable artists appearing in this year’s edition of the venue include the Gypsy Kings and Ziggy Marley (son of legendary rastaman Bob and brother of leading mainstream reggae musician Damien). Elsewhere, the card is populated by both lesser-known international names and forerunning St Lucian jazzmen and women, making for a diverse and certainly appealing overall cast.

It is clear, then, that May of 2012 is a particularly good month to book St Lucia honeymoons to this stunning island. Newlyweds visiting the island during this month will have a definite, and perhaps unfair, advantage over their less informed peers, as they will not only benefit from the island’s myriad, well-documented natural and touristic charms, but also be provided with a smooth, soothing and undeniably romantic soundtrack, helping give their already special holiday an uniquely glamorous, Hollywoodesque veneer!

Ross Stevenson is the General Manager of Cap Maison. With a reputation as the foremost luxury hotel on St Lucia, they provide a wide selection of services for St Lucia honeymoons and options for couples who want to enjoy a blissful Caribbean experience.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Top Tip
Make sure you know how to operate your new camera before you leave for St Lucia. Honeymoons with an unworkable machine won’t capture the memories you were expecting. Go on a one-day or night school course before you leave so you can get maximum performance and the perfect photos you’ll both be wanting.

Once you arrive in St Lucia, honeymoons won’t disappoint. The island will engulf you with its volcanic radiance, shimmering sea and powdery beaches. Knowing how to expose for beach shots will save you the heartache of terrible pictures, which, on a honeymoon, is the last thing you want.

Beach shots

• Capture focal points, don’t get stretches of endless sand with nothing in the frame – go for ripples in the sand, logs, shells, anything to draw your eye to the photo.

• Set your ruler on your LED screen so you can ensure that horizons are horizontal.

• If you are using Auto mode, take one photo and see how the photo has been exposed – then over or under expose by a couple of stops. If there is a lot of shade and brightly lit areas, lighting can difficult and it’s best to expose for one of these areas, not both.

• Spot metering will expose for the subject but other areas will probably be over exposed. In cases when you use this, go for close-ups and people shots.

Be careful of saltwater and sand
It only takes a couple of grains of sand to get into your camera’s body or lens to cause havoc and costly repairs once you leave St Lucia. Honeymoons needn’t be ruined though. Wind is the main culprit and it’s a good idea to buy either a waterproof case, like those used for diving (yes, they’re expensive) or a disposable waterproof camera.

The other alternative is to avoid the beach if the wind is kicking up. Anse De Sables, the island’s longest stretch of sand, has a regular breeze, which keeps the temperature down but means you need to take care of your camera. Vieux Fort also has a constant, cool breeze and it’s best to take a disposable if you’re worried about expensive gear getting damaged.

Ross Stevenson is the General Manager of Cap Maison. With a reputation as the foremost luxury hotel on St Lucia, they provide a wide selection of services for St Lucia honeymoons and options for couples who want to enjoy a blissful Caribbean experience.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Know where to switch off the water supply if needed

It may not always be necessary to do this. For example, if your sink is leaking, it will only do so when you turn on the faucet and run water down the plug hole. So in this situation you can simply turn off the faucet and take a look under the sink to see where the problem is. But if one of the main water pipes springs a leak you’ll definitely need to switch off the supply to stop the flow of water leaking out all over your house. Check now to see where you can switch off the supply – there may be more than one location depending on the size of your house and where the water supply is used – and make a note of it. Even if you have to call out some Fairfax plumbers to resolve your plumbing leaks, you’ll still want to turn off the water before they arrive.

Be practical – is this something you could reasonably fix on your own?

It’s pretty easy to fix a leaky tap if the problem is caused by a worn out washer (which it often is). You may also be able to fix a blocked sink if you experience this. For example the U bend is sometimes clogged up with material that has drained out of the sink and become blocked in this bend. It is fairly simple to unscrew this part of the plumbing to clean it out and then replace it. However if you have a problem with a main pipe, or your own efforts as described above do not get to the root of the problem, it is wise to contact some Fairfax plumbers to resolve the issues for you.

Know when you need to call for assistance as quickly as possible

Obviously a major water leak requires the help of a qualified plumber. In this situation you would turn off the supply (by now you should know where to do this, as described above) and you can then call for help. Make sure you describe the issue and let the plumber know that you have an emergency leak and you have turned off the water supply. Reputable plumbers should get to you as quickly as possible so they can ascertain the problem and fix it as quickly as they can. Knowing what to do in this situation will make you less likely to panic if or when it does occur.

Sarah Saadoun works for HMS Plumbing, a family-owned business in Northern Virginia. If you’re looking for Fairfax plumbers Herve and his dedicated employees at HMS are proud to be serving the needs of residents and businesses. For expertFairfax plumbers HMS Plumbing is your first choice.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.
Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Check the cupboard and the plumbing regularly for leaks

When the plumbing under your sink leaks it can ruin the sink cabinet itself. With any luck only the shelf will be damaged, rather than the whole cabinet. It all depends on how big the leak is, how long it has been leaking undetected and whether or not the water is mopped up quickly. If you keep a regular eye on the plumbing underneath your sink you can look for leaks, wet pipes and water marks on any shelves or the bottom of the cabinet itself. This is the best way to ensure you can stop a minor problem in its tracks and hopefully resolve it, even if it requires assistance from Fairfax plumbers.

Prevent blockages by preventing food from going down the drain and using a trap
Most times, blockages in kitchen plumbing are caused by food items heading down the drain. It may only be the odd piece of vegetable or food heading down there, but over time it can cause a major blockage. Use a trap in the plug hole to stop this from happening and empty it several times a day if need be.

Be alert to squeaky or leaky taps

Leaky taps are almost always down to worn out washers. Squeaky taps can mean worn washers or simply interior parts rubbing against each other where they shouldn’t be. Washers are simple to replace, but if you are in doubt over any other issues you may not be confident in exploring the possible causes of squeaks and leaks. In this case Fairfax plumbers can help out.
In all situations involving leaking and problematic kitchen plumbing, sinks and taps, the trick is clearly to try to resolve the problem as quickly as possible. Leaks have a habit of getting worse over time if they are not fixed quickly. If a simple solution to solving your kitchen plumbing problems does not produce the fix you are looking for, call in the experts to assist you and get your kitchen plumbing back to normal again.

Sarah Saadoun works for HMS Plumbing, a family-owned business in Northern Virginia. If you’re looking for Fairfax plumbers Herve and his dedicated employees at HMS are proud to be serving the needs of residents and businesses. For expertFairfax plumbers HMS Plumbing is your first choice.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.
Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Lessons in Linguine
When you head to Tuscany, villas to rent give you the chance to stay in a stunning location while equipping yourself with some impressive cooking skills. There are a large number of cookery classes available across the region where you can be inducted into the secretive but delicious arts of Italian cuisine. There are few regions more associated with the country’s food than Tuscany; villas to rent with fully-fitted kitchens will give you the perfect spot for practicing what you cook during your period of studying the local nosh.

Learn Something New (and Delicious)
There’s a good reason that the Tuscans produce some of the world’s favourite wines – they needed to wash down the incredible food; and when you’re learning to cook a splash of the old grape juice is never far away. The food you’ll learn to cook in the region isn’t made in quite the same way as the dishes you’ll have become familiar with in Italian restaurants back home. You’ll almost certainly learn about ingredients and techniques that you never even knew existed, giving you the skills and flair that will enable you to impress friends and family for the rest of your life.

The Region’s Dishes
Tuscan cuisine is well known for having a simpler and less fancy approach to much of the rest of Italy when it comes to food. For meat-lovers, the region is the birthplace of bistecca alla fiorentina, the Florentine style beefsteak which grilled over wood or charcoal and seasoned with just pepper, salt and olive oil. Finer foodstuffs include the truffles that are found around San Miniato in October and November. The area’s well known peasant recipes are most famously represented by ribollita, a reboiled Tuscan soup that makes use of left-over pulses and vegetables, turning them into a delicious broth. There really is something for everyone.

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialise in finding the perfect Tuscany villas to rent in Chianti as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Their Tuscany villas to rent are personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Are you making major changes to the layout of the bathroom?

A new bathroom is easier to install if you keep the toilet, the bath and the sink in the same places. Even then you may benefit from hiring some Fairfax plumbers to ensure the new plumbing is correctly installed. In addition, if you wish to change the layout of the room completely, this will incur making major changes to the existing plumbing. You should never attempt this kind of work yourself; it is far better to consult Fairfax plumbers so you can benefit from their experience and knowledge. This way you can be sure of getting a proper installation that looks good and has proper plumbing in place as well. Bear in mind the cost of moving plumbing will increase the overall price of the new bathroom.

Are you able to tackle a simple like for like replacement bathroom on your own?

Some people think they can easily do it. But until you start removing the existing pipe work and fixtures it is impossible to know how complicated the job will be. If you have moved into a new property in this part of Virginia you probably aren’t aware of what the plumbing is like. Fairfax plumbers will be trained to handle all situations and eventualities, so even if your old bathroom is removed and it reveals all kinds of plumbing problems, your Fairfax plumbers will be able to resolve them for you.

Do you have a budget in place that has a little extra cash available to cover any issues that arise?

Costing out your new bathroom – whether it is a half bath or a full bathroom – is an important part of the process. Consider all aspects, from the suite itself to the tiles and flooring required, and right through to any other decoration too. You should also consider adding in some extra funds just to be sure you have covered everything.
For instance, you may find some additional plumbing work is needed to bring the finished bathroom up to a professional standard. It is wise to allocate some funds for items such as this that can be hard to price with accuracy at the beginning of the job.
As you can see, by considering a few simple steps prior to installing a new bathroom, you can be sure that you will get the best finished result for your budget. With assistance from Fairfax plumbers you can be sure of getting the bathroom you want.

Sarah Saadoun works for HMS Plumbing, a family-owned business in Northern Virginia. If you’re looking for Fairfax plumbers Herve and his dedicated employees at HMS are proud to be serving the needs of residents and businesses. For expertFairfax plumbers HMS Plumbing is your first choice.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.
Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

As predicted, this marketing strategy paid off: after all, when one is offered the possibility of staying in quaint semi-traditional Tuscany villas, to rent a more traditional house or stay in a hotel room seem like far inferior alternatives. This admittedly appealing prospect is what makes thousands of tourists seek out this kind of accommodation every spring and summer, leading to a boom in the Tuscan tourist trade.

As a result, in Tuscany, villas to rent or own are now in incredibly high supply. However, as is wont to happen with any given commercial trend, not all of the accommodation on offer perfectly replicates the real Tuscan standard for accommodation and lifestyle. As such, when looking in Tuscany, villas to rent should be carefully chosen to ensure the dwelling has as many traditional, charmingly Italian trappings as possible, so as to better mimic what it would feel like to be an actual native of the region.

A typical Tuscan home will generally be built out of rough, uneven stone, which gives it its rustic charm. Interior decoration should follow a similar pattern, with texture-heavy material such as terracotta and clay taking precedence over metal or plastic. Colours will be earthy, both on the inside and the outside, and typical features such as tile roofs, beamed ceilings and shuttered windows will also be present. The overall feel should be one of rustic comfort – these abodes are known for being warm and cosy, inviting the dweller to feel at home and get comfortable.

Only if your villa of choice gathers most or all of these characteristics will you truly be able to fully experience “true” Tuscan living – or at least as close as you can get to it. Remember: the more rustic, the better. Many operators offering accommodation in Tuscany [villas to rent or otherwise] may be selling properties that might not exactly reflect what a “real”, non-commercial Tuscan dwelling would be like.

As such, when looking for your holiday home, try to keep in mind the traditional trappings detailed above, to ensure your eventual choice retains as much of the “real” Italian charm as possible!

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialise in finding the perfect Tuscany villas to rent in Chianti as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Their Tuscany villas to rent are personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

You won’t get tired muscles or cramps from tiny seats or being forced to stay immobile for hours at a time, or have to suffer through crowded (and sometimes very confusing) airports or bus terminals, and you won’t need to rush from one terminal to the next to make your connecting flights. There’s plenty of room to stretch on modern railway cars, from large private travel cars (although you may not want to leave your comfortable armchair or your cosy sleeping compartment), to the lounge, where you’re encouraged to relax and mingle with other passengers. If you get hungry, just wander down to the dining car, which offers wonderful, fresh cuisine to rival the best in the world. Best of all, you don’t have to suffer from jet lag or skip over all the interesting sites that lie between your initial location and your destination. If you’re planning to visit as many sites and attractions as possible when travelling through Europe, train holidays are the perfect answer.
Below is a list of famous cities and attractions that can be reached by railway in Europe. Train holidays are definitely the more fun and exciting way to see more of the sights with less stress.

Istanbul

Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, is a great start to your railway adventure in Europe. Train holidays can be taken from Istanbul, through Bulgaria or Romania to Budapest, and even journeys can take you further up to Poland and beyond. Istanbul is the country’s second largest gateway, and there is plenty to see and do. Check out its amazing architecture, such as the Sunken Palace, an eerie cavern held up below ground by 336 columns. It was built by Constantinople the Great around 532 AD. For shopping buffs, Istanbul has many great shopping centres, including Akmerkez, which was opened in 1993 and has been named both the ICSC’s ‘Europe’s Best’ and ‘World’s Best’ awards, and Cevahir Mall, which is the largest mall in Europe. You may also want to visit the Kapali Çarsi, or the Grand Bazaar, which is the oldest and largest covered bazaar in the world. It is as equally fascinating for its unique architecture as for the wonderful things being sold there.

Sofia

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is also its largest city and one of the most visited tourist destinations in the country. While there, consider visiting the site of the old (now closed) public mineral baths. You can also check out Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 10th century, that features exquisite Eastern European medieval frescoes, and many other historical sites. Be sure to try the local cuisine, including Shopska salad, a local favourite made from tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and Bulgarian feta, as well as their world-famous yogurt!

Budapest

Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is another great stop on your journey. Budapest features great museums, such as the Museum of Fine Arts and the Historical Museum of Budapest. There is even a wine museum of sorts, the House of Hungarian Wines, displaying over 700 wines from 22 different regions, which guests can sample. Animal lovers should not miss the Budapest Zoo, which serves as a haven for endangered animals, or Budapest City Circus, with its exciting and impressive animal performers.

Anna Copeland is the Marketing Manager for The Danube Express, which specialises in Europe train holidays. The Danube Express has a range of exclusive train holidays to Europe, travelling across countries like Poland, Hungary and Turkey.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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In total, Tuscany has two national parks, three nature parks and 54 nature reserves. The following are a selection of this scenic portfolio.

Parco Nazionale delle Foreste Casentinesi
When you visit Tuscany, villas to rent can put you in the very centre of the action. The Parco Nazionale delle Foreste Casentinesi should be at the top of your ‘must see’ list. Situated to the northwest of Arezzo and Vallombrosa, this park is made up of dense and untouched forests. It is swimming in diverse, visually appealing fauna and is a very popular destination for the region’s swarm of devoted hikers and walkers.

Parco Nazionale Arcipelago Toscano
This national park is the largest in Europe, not just Tuscany. Villas to rent are a good idea to give you a base to explore this rich scenic area. There are seven secluded Tuscan islands in total making up this national park: Elba, Giglio, Capraia, Gorgona, Pianosa, Giannutri and Montecristo. Each of the seven punctuates the clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and an extensive area of this park, as well as roughly 60,000 hectares of sea, are under conservation.

Parco Naturale della Maremma
This particular nature park runs alongside the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea. It boasts an extremely varied collection of natural scenery and heaving wildlife. There are steep rocky hillsides, winding rivers and pea-green marshes, and prickly pine forests. The Parco Naturale della Maremma truly and beautifully captures the wildness of Tuscany – Italy’s ‘Wild West’.

Parco Naturale Alpi Apuane
The Alpi Apuana is the name for the area of land between Lucca and Carrara. It is an alluring mountain kingdom which comprises sharp, menacing deep ravines and steep mountainsides. Furthermore, its snow-white marble and clusters of callous caves are home to many of the rarest and most unique animals of Tuscany. Villas to rent for a length of time are recommended as a starting point to discover this picturesque park.

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialise in finding the perfect Tuscany villas to rent in Chianti as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Their Tuscany villas to rent are personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Modern railways offer all the excitement and adventure along with all the comforts of home as you travel through Europe. Train holidays allow you to catch up on your reading or letter writing on soft comfortable armchairs, or watch the passing scenery through large picture windows. Slumber peacefully during the night and take refreshing naps during the day in deluxe sleeping cars with convertible beds and equipped with a wardrobe, air-conditioning, and en suite toilet/shower. Enjoy delicious regional cuisine in the dining car, or make new friends as you relax and have a drink in the lounge car. Some railways even offer live entertainment in the form of a piano bar! Best of all, you will get to see a plethora of the attractions of Europe. Train holidays are truly the best way to see the countryside. Listed below are some of the cities and towns that you can explore at leisure when you travel by rail.

Kecskemét

Kecskemét, which lies approximately 50 miles south of Budapest, is known as the centre of the Great Hungarian Plain. The name of the city stems from the Hungarian word kecske, meaning ‘goat’, likely because it was first settled by goat herders over a millennium ago. Kecskemét is known for its fruit products, including its famous barackpálinka, or apricot brandy. The city is home to many art nouveau buildings, churches and historical monuments, including the magnificent City Hall, which is considered to have launched the country’s National Romanticism Movement.

Sighişoara and Brașov

Sighişoara and Brașov will be particularly interesting to horror fans, as Sighişoara is whispered to be the birthplace of Vlad Tepes [aka Dracula], while Bran Castle, near Brașov, is known as Dracula’s Castle. Sighişoara is considered the most beautiful and well-preserved inhabited citadel in Eastern Europe, featuring authentic medieval architecture in the form of burgher houses and magnificent churches. Sighişoara holds a medieval festival in the citadel every July, and the city has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Meanwhile, travelling to Brașov provides a great view of the Carpathian Mountains. Aside from being an authentic medieval town, Brașov is also a famous resort town and has been named as the host of the 2015 Winter Youth Olympics.

Kazanlak

The Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak is probably its most famous attraction. Discovered in 1944, this mausoleum of a Thracian family dates from the Hellenistic period and is said to be the masterpiece of a single artist-architect. According to UNESCO, who declared it a World Heritage Site, it is ‘a masterpiece of the Thracian creative spirit’. This monument is the only one of its kind anywhere in the world, so an exact replica was built to preserve the glorious frescos and the original condition of the structure. Kazanlak is also the part of Bulgaria’s Valley of Roses. Rose oil is one of its major products, and its rose gardens are said to be the largest in the world. The Rose Festival, held every June to coincide with the season when the Kazanlak Rose is in bloom, is an international event attended by thousands of tourists.

Anna Copeland is the Marketing Manager for The Danube Express, which specialises in Europe train holidays. The Danube Express has a range of exclusive train holidays to Europe, travelling across countries like Poland, Hungary and Turkey.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

The Doge’s Palace

Many people recognise this grand building as they take their Venice Airport water taxi to their accommodation. Be sure to visit it later on in your trip, to appreciate the Gothic splendour up close. There are several tours of the palace that can be taken, so be sure to book onto at least one of them.

Saint Mark’s Cathedral

Often referred to as St Mark’s Basilica, this is another landmark building in the city. The building is almost a thousand years old so it is a grand place to visit for a historical sense of the city. Just as the Doge’s Palace displays a grand sense of Gothic art, the same is true of St Mark’s Cathedral. It also has Romanesque and Byzantine artwork to see.

The Bridge of Sighs

Apparently this famous bridge got its name because it used to see prisoners crossing it after being sentenced in the Palazzo Ducale (the Doge’s Palace, mentioned above) to spend many years in jail. The prisons, called the Piombi, were on the other side of the bridge. So while it may seem romantic now, it was nothing of the sort many years ago.

San Giorgio Maggiore

If you have time, head out to the island of San Giorgio Maggiore to see the church of the same name. It dates from the 16th century and is quite charming in its proportions and history. It is known as the focal point of the entire island, and is free to enter, so you can see two charming paintings by the artist Sebastiano Ricci while you are there.

Piazza San Marco

Most people who arrive by Venice Airport water taxi will be thinking of seeing the Piazza San Marco while they are in the city. St Mark’s Square, to call it by its English translation, is quite a beautiful and romantic place to be. It is known as a meeting place and is the biggest square of its kind in the city. Even if you don’t come into the square by way of your Venice Airport water taxi, you can arrive at the square by boat, and many think this is the most attractive way to do it. Be sure to stay long enough to enough a coffee at one of the cafes in the square.

Whatever you do in the city, the above suggestions make for a superb selection of things to do. They represent the most famous side of the city – the one that most of us would instantly recognise.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Venice airport water taxi transfer, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Celebrity haven
When it comes to Tuscany, villa rental is not just for the general public. Eighties popstar and eco-warrior, Sting, for example, owns a villa in Il Palagio. In addition, bestselling author Frances Mayes, whose book Under the Tuscan Sun and the later film adaption catapulted her to fame, also owns a home in Cortona, Bramasole. The book itself is also about a Tuscan villa, and many visitors flock to the Bramasole gate each year in their bid to retrace the steps of the book’s female protagonist.

Assassin’s Creed
The beautiful architecture and panoramas of medieval Tuscany (villa rental was not around back then, of course) feature heavily in the popular video game Assassin’s Creed II which was released back in 2009. The game features various locations in late 15th century Italy, such as the city of Florence and several sweeping sections of the Tuscan countryside.

Pop Music
If there ever was a reason to visit Tuscany – villa rental or otherwise – then it would be to experience authentic Tuscan music. Forget the traditional Operas and symphonies and the likes of Puccini, nowadays it’s all about indie rock, pop, and electronic outfits such as Baustelle. They were formed in the mid-’90s in the Tuscan town of Montepulciano and, recently, they recorded a song which was solely dedicated to the Tuscan city of Follonica.

The Silver Screen
Next time you find yourself visiting Tuscany (villa rental accommodation is highly recommended) you might be surprised to discover that a lot of the locales you encounter will look instantly familiar; not because you’ve been there before, but because they have featured prominently in many Hollywood blockbusters. The beautiful Italian region is perennially popular with filmmakers. It has featured in films since as early as 1900 and has been used in the Italian film industry as well as in huge American films such as Gladiator and Hannibal.

Fashion
In Florence, the economy is carried on the back of the fashion and textile industry. Presently, some of the greatest designers from around the globe draw on these Tuscan industries, particularly in Florence. In fact, the Italian textile industry accounts for a quarter of total European production – which is a turnover of over 25 billion Euros.

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialise in finding the perfect Tuscany villa rental in Chianti as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Each Tuscany villa rental is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Make the most of Venice itself

Venice is a knot of streets and canals all intersecting with one another. It is hard to get lost in the city so be brave and forget the map. You are likely to discover many stunning sights simply by wandering around discovering the city by yourself. The city has its popular spots for sure – but it also has squares, winding streets and waterways that are little discovered and equally as charming.

Ride in a gondola along the Grand Canal

If you see no other canals in the city (something that would be very hard to do), you should ensure you see the Grand Canal. Travelling in a Venice Airport water taxi is not the same as taking a gondola ride, so make sure you opt for the real experience once you are in the city itself. The price paid is per gondola and each one can take six people. If you want a romantic ride for two you will pay more pro rata than you would if you were to share the gondola with other people.

Eat at the Taverna del Campiello Remer

Sooner or later you will want to stop and eat – perhaps even as soon as you have disembarked from your Venice Airport water taxi and dropped your bags off at your hotel. If this is the case, head for the Taverna del Campiello Remer. Sit in the courtyard and you will be able to gaze over the Grand Canal as you eat. The buffet lunch is sublime and offers you a huge tray of affettati. This brings you salami and smoked ham to mention just two meats. It is a place to sit and relax and take your fill before taking a walk around the rest of the city.

See St Mark’s Clock Tower

There are many famous sights in the city, some of which you will see as you make your approach in your Venice Airport water taxi. But others have to be sought out, and as you make your way to the Piazza San Marco you will be rewarded with the sight of St Mark’s Clock Tower, otherwise known as Torre dell’Orologio. You should be prepared to tackle the stairs that will take you up inside the tower itself, but they are worth it in order to appreciate the view from the top. The Clock Tower famously appeared in the Bond film ‘Moonraker’ in years gone by.

Whatever you want to see in the city, make sure you don’t miss out on these classic sights and experiences as listed above. Where will you begin?

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Venice airport water taxi transfer, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Sperm Whales

Certainly the most often sighted whale on polar holidays to this region, the Sperm Whale is also one of the most impressive. They can grow to over 20 metres in length, making them the world’s largest toothed animal, and are a breathtaking sight to behold in open waters. One of their most unique features is spermaceti, the wax-like substance contained in cavities in their large block-like heads, for which they were once widely hunted. It is believed that spermaceti plays a part in buoyancy, solidifying or melting to increase or decrease in volume; it is also thought to be a key component of the whales’ sonar system.

Minke Whales

The common or northern Minke Whale is a dark purple-grey baleen whale with a white underside, and a white band on each of its flippers. They dive deep to feed, surfacing at intervals of up to 20 minutes, and can be sighted by groups on polar holidays when their backs break the surface. You know that a Minke Whale is about to dive when its back arches.

Pilot Whales

Although called whales, Pilot Whales are in fact a type of dolphin, and are divided into two species – the one you can see on polar holidays being the Long-finned Pilot Whale. Notable for their bulbous heads, they are usually dark black, dark grey or brown, and can be sighted in pods of up to 100 [although usually closer to 20 or 30] as they dive to hunt.

Orcas

One of the most instantly recognisable cetaceans in the world, the Orca or Killer Whale is a treat for any groups on polar holidays fortunate enough to sight them. Like Pilot Whales, they are part of the Delphinidae family, but have an entirely distinctive look with their black backs and white chests and eye patches. They are also supremely well-adapted hunters, with powerful jaws and strong enamel-coated teeth that allow them to effectively attack an impressive range of prey, from herring to other whales and sharks. However, they are also notable for their social structures, which vary between groups but are always complex. They are usually matrilineal, with female family leaders.

Marissa Ellis-Snow is a freelance nature writer. If you’re looking for polar holidays, Naturetrek specialises in expert-led natural history and wildlife tours worldwide. Naturetrek brings over 25 years of experience to polar holidays and other spectacular regions on Earth.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Consider some of the following delights that are waiting to greet you when you arrive in the city courtesy of the Venice Airport water taxi. Which museum will you visit first?

The Doges Palace

When you reach the Piazza San Marco you will be able to see this, one of the finest Venetian museums in existence today. If you only see one it should be this. You will actually have an opportunity to visit several museums here, since the Palace houses several of them. This is an unusual mix of former prisons and also the luxurious home of the Doge. Paintings by Titian, Carpaccio and Bellini, among others, can be seen here.

Ca’Rezzonico

This is another grand example of how works of art are often housed in buildings that are works of art themselves. The Baroque palace holds works by Tiepolo and Canaletto among others. All works date from the 18th century and there are several floors of artwork to appreciate. Make sure you see the grand staircase and look out for the works of the Settecento as well.

Museo Col. Guggenheim

As many visitors approach the city on the Venice Airport water taxi, they will undoubtedly look forward to visiting the Museo Col. Guggenheim. This is sometimes referred to as the Peggy Guggenheim Museum, since it is housed in her private apartment. Enjoy seeing works created by the likes of Magritte, Picasso and Mondrian here. Peggy Guggenheim was always a big supporter of the arts throughout her life, so it is only apt that her apartment is now a museum to them in the city itself.

Museo Correr

Whenever you visit a new city it is worthwhile finding out as much as you can about its history. Venice has a fascinating history indeed, and you can discover more about it at the Museo Correr. It has the advantage of being situated in St Mark’s Square, one of the most famous locations in the city. You can see various paintings here but there are also coins, drawings and other works, many of which take in the Venetian landscape over the years.

And perhaps Venice itself

One final museum you will experience as you step off the Venice Airport water taxi is the city itself. The whole city can be regarded as an outdoor museum – such is the beauty and the history it holds. Indeed the city is granted the recognition of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so this may not be too far from the truth. The city indeed gives new meaning to the word ‘museum’, as you will see when you arrive.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Venice airport water taxi transfer, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

As well as majestic land and seascapes, opportunities to see whales and dolphins and fascinating birds including albatrosses, cormorants and petrels, such holidays bring the chance to observe a range of different penguins. For an introduction to the species that you’re likely to see, and the best ways to identify them, read on.

Snares Penguin

Polar holidays offer the very best way to experience the delightful thrill of seeing a penguin colony in its natural, unspoilt environment. The Snares Penguin breeding colonies are found, as their name suggests, on New Zealand’s Snares Islands. They establish colonies under forest cover or on coastal rocks, building nests from grass, twigs, pebbles and mud – usually with the males doing the building, although, unlike some species, the nest building happens after courtship. These penguins can be identified by their bright yellow eyebrow-stripe.

King Penguin

Recognisable by the solid orange-yellow patch behind their cheeks, King Penguins are the second-largest penguin species, and one of the most impressive birds you’ll see on your polar holidays. They are great divers, frequently going down over 100 metres to hunt, and are very well adapted to their environment with four layers of feathers [a top layer of oiled, waterproof feathers over three layers of down]. Like many other penguin species, they share nesting duties and incubate in shifts, and later take turns with foraging duties.

Royal Penguin

A species of crested penguin, the Royal Penguin is identifiable by its yellow crest and white face – unlike the otherwise very similar-looking Macaroni Penguins, which have black faces. They nest on or near the beaches, making shallow holes and lining them with stones, with both parents taking turns to keep the eggs warm. When watching Royal Penguins on polar holidays, you can tell the males and females apart by size, with males being larger, and, during the nursing period by behaviour. Males look after the chicks while females go out for food; later, both parents look for food while chicks remain together in crèches.

Rockhopper Penguin

The Rockhopper Penguin is distinguished by spiked yellow feathers at the sides of its head, and is also noted for the behaviour that gave it its name: jumping over obstacles instead of sliding around them as many other penguins do.

Gentoo Penguin

Identifiable by its red beak and the stripe running across the top of its head, between the eyes, the Gentoo Penguin also has a longer tail than most. Their colonies are formed near the coast or inland, often in grassy areas, and their nests are built up out of stones – the search for the best-fitting and most attractive stones can lead to fights between male nest-builders.

Marissa Ellis-Snow is a freelance nature writer. If you’re looking for polar holidays, Naturetrek specialises in expert-led natural history and wildlife tours worldwide. Naturetrek brings over 25 years of experience to polar holidays and other spectacular regions on Earth.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

For bird enthusiasts, the Arctic uplands of Finland and Norway are bursting with opportunities for sightings, especially in the spring season. The Arctic spring is a vibrant, often surprising season, when the whole world seems to be in flux; for birds, it is also a time of change and activity, making it a wonderful season for birdwatching. Here are some of the species to look out for:

Owls

The boreal forests of the Arctic are home to several species of owls, birds that continue to fascinate us with their intelligence and otherworldly beauty. On polar holidays, the species that you have a good chance of coming across in these forests include Ural, Eagle, Great Grey, Short-eared, Pygmy, Hawk and Tengmalm’s Owls, while the fjords of Arctic Norway are home to the majestic Snowy Owl. Almost immediately recognisable by its striking white plumage, yellow eyes and black beak, the Snowy Owl is a fantastic example of a bird well adapted for Arctic life – well camouflaged, an extremely efficient hunter, and insulated by its thick feathers.

Forest birds

For those prepared to venture into little-travelled areas on their polar holidays, the rewards are great. The taiga forests near the Arctic Circle are home to some superb species including the Rustic Bunting, Two-barred Crossbill, Siberian Tit, Siberian Jay, and Red-flanked Bluetail. This last bird, with its brilliant blue plumage and beautiful trilling song, is one of the best ‘hidden gems’ of the region, and sightings of it are something to remember.

Waders and waterbirds

As well as the forests and tundra, the region’s wetlands are home to a multitude of attractive waterbirds and waders. Some distinctive birds include the Terek Sandpiper, with its upcurved bill and grey back and face, which can be seen chasing insects and other prey by the water’s edge, and the Citrine Wagtail with its bright yellow head and breast.

Gulls

Polar holidays will offer participants plenty of opportunity to observe the handsome, resourceful gulls of the Arctic, including the Iceland Gull, the white-winged Glaucous Gull, the striking white Ivory Gull, and the Kittiwake. Look out for them in the air as well as on land or water in groups.

Puffins

Those who get the chance to take a boat trip off the mainland to visit a seabird island will be treated to some of the best birdwatching in the region, with the opportunity to see auks, guillemots and gulls in their colonies. One of the highlights of such a trip is the opportunity to see the Puffins. With their black-and-white plumage and large, colourful beaks, they are wonderful to observe anywhere, but it is only in their breeding colonies that you will see them interacting as couples, and hear their cries.

Marissa Ellis-Snow is a freelance nature writer. If you’re looking for polar holidays, Naturetrek specialises in expert-led natural history and wildlife tours worldwide. Naturetrek brings over 25 years of experience to polar holidays and other spectacular regions on Earth.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

It’s not hard to see why the region of Tuscany is so popular with filmmakers. The combination of its golden cornfields, red and yellow houses, and rolling luscious green fields make for astoundingly beautiful panoramas. And these views can really set the artistic and creative juices running like no other place on earth!

Under The Tuscan Sun
Like many who visit the region of Tuscany, villa rental became an enduring inspiration for the bestselling American author Frances Mayes. Her 1996 memoir Under the Tuscan Sun became a hit blockbuster of the same name in 2003. For fans of the book and the film, Mayes lived in the small Tuscan town of Cortona, and you can visit this exact place on your holiday, and then experience the gorgeous vistas which underpin the story while you do so.

Gladiator
Ridley Scott’s sprawling 2000 blockbuster, Gladiator, features the Tuscan landscape at a vital point in the film. In a telling dream sequence, Russell Crowe’s character Maximus sweeps through the amazing scenery of the Elysian Fields. This was filmed in the heart of the Orcia Valley, Tuscany. Villa rental in the region can give you a good base to explore this region and set your heart soaring.

Hannibal
Ridley Scott obviously enjoyed filming so much in Tuscany that he came to the region to shoot his next film, Hannibal, in 2001. This sequel to The Silence of the Lambs continues the story of the dashing but menacing cannibal, Hannibal Lector. The film features the city of Florence quite predominately as Dr Lector lectures in Palazzo Vecchio, Sala dei Cinquecento. He also commits an extraordinarily grizzly crime in Piazza della Signoria and Piazza della Reppublica. So, say what you want about Hannibal, these stunning locations clearly prove he has refined taste!

The English Patient
Anthony Minghella’s 1996 romantic drama, The English Patient, which was based on the bestelling novel by Canadian author Micahel Ondaatje, won a breathtaking nine Oscars. One of the reasons for the film’s appeal was its scenery, as it was filmed partly in Tuscany. Villa rental on your holiday will let you springboard into the authentic Tuscan atmosphere captured by film, which features the magical areas of Arezzo and Pienza.

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialise in finding the perfect Tuscany villa rental in Chianti as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Each Tuscany villa rental is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Football

Just like in England, football is an extremely popular pastime in Italy. This is especially true in Tuscany. Villa rental should give you plenty of room to kick a ball around with friends or family. If you feel like taking a back seat, however, there are plenty of opportunities to spectate at an Italian league game. There’s nothing quite like experiencing the atmosphere of an Italian football match, for the fans take the game very seriously. If this sounds up right up your street, then the team in Florence is called La Fiorentina if you’re looking for someone to support. Alternatively, there are matches nearby at Siena and Livorno.

Running

If your two favourite things in the world are running and enjoying spectacular scenic views, then you should definitely consider competing in the Florence Marathon. The endurance race, which has been growing in popularity each year, was established in 1984 and takes place every November in the capital city of the region of Tuscany. Villa rental is the option for your accommodation if you fancy lacing up your trainers and taking to the roads, because it allows you time to rest and relax in the days leading up to the big race. It is the second biggest marathon in Italy, after the Rome marathon.

The Bravio delle Botti

For those unfamiliar with this curious and charming sporting event, on the last Sunday of every August in Montepulciano, just south of Siena, the eight districts of the town compete against each other to push a heavy wooden wine barrel up a steep hill to the historical town centre. Two strong Italian men channel every ounce of their being to push these barrels as fast as they can for the torturous one kilometre distance. The ever-popular event, which is steeped in tradition and goes back all the way to the fourteenth century, is a great excuse to combine entertainment, culture and a healthy dashing of physical activity!

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialise in finding the perfect Tuscany villa rental in Chianti as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Each Tuscany villa rental is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Geographical definitions

The West Coast of the USA is, of course, the Pacific coast. Strictly speaking, this encompasses the states of California, Oregon and Washington, but in practice the states of Nevada, Arizona, Colorado and Utah are also often included. This is a vast area of tremendously varied geography containing a number of cultures, including a strong Hispanic influence in some areas where Spanish may be more frequently heard than English. It is a wonderful area to explore and contains the possibilities for students on school trips to experience some of the geographical wonders of the world.

California

It is difficult to avoid superlatives when talking about this great state. Culturally, it is split into three regions, namely: souther Californian (broadly the coastal areas running from the Mexican border through San Diego and Los Angeles and towards San Francisco); northern California (typically seen as running from a few hundred miles south of San Francisco, through San Francisco itself and up to the Oregon border); desert and mountain California – including much of the eastern inland areas away from the coast, including Death Valley.

For school trips, it would arguably be possible to stop and go no further than California, as you explored San Francisco with its myriad delights, the wonders of the national parks or the pleasure spots of Los Angeles.

Nevada

This state contains what is sometimes described as the “world’s recreation capital” – Las Vegas. But the attractions of preserved western towns such as Virginia City should not be overlooked either. Driving through the desert areas and seeing ghost towns and old mining areas then coming upon incredible little towns such as Reno, is an experience students should not have to miss. For spectacular natural scenery, a visit to Lake Tahoe on the California/Nevada border is also worth considering on the itinerary of school trips.

Arizona

This state contains one of the most famous landmarks on earth in the form of the Grand Canyon. Words are unable to express the beauty of this area and it simply must be included on school trips to the region.

Utah

Famous for being the home of Mormons, Utah is also the location of Monument Valley – an area of incredible natural rock formations that was used extensively in the western films of the 1930s-60s. The scenery is staggering and offers a different view of desert countryside.

Colorado

The Hoover Dam (ex: Boulder Dam) was built over 80 years ago in order to try and take advantage of the hydroelectric potential of the Colorado River. Even in an age where we take major engineering projects for granted, the scale of this dam, as you walk across it, stretches the imagination. The associated museum and exhibition showing how it was built is particularly interesting for students.

Space here only permits a totally inadequate summary of this vast region. What makes it attractive for school trips is the fact that in the USA, things are structured to make it easy for groups to get around and enjoy themselves once at their destination. That is something that can offer significant peace of mind for organisers.

Angela Bowden works for EST (Equity School Travel), the UK’s largest educational travel company, providing school trips for secondary schools, primary schools and colleges. School trips with EST can encompass a wide range of learning and more in worldwide destinations.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Origins

A quick glimpse at the countryside surrounding Edinburgh will show that it must have been particularly attractive to early peoples. Close to a major river (the Forth), the coast and surrounded by fertile lands, it also benefits from having a number of steep, hilly locations that must have been very appealing from the point of view of fortifications and defence.

One of the common misconceptions about early Scottish history is that the Romans never entered the country. In fact, Roman colonisation up to the river Forth was considerable in the earlier periods, and there is archaeological evidence that their influence, and possibly even control, continued after they had notionally withdrawn to Hadrian’s Wall. Occupation on the site of Edinburgh is known to go back to the Bronze Age, and Roman remains have been found in the river locally, as well as in the general area.

The English and Scottish

Originally, for much of the Anglo-Saxon period, the Northumbrian English settled the area of East Lothian and Edinburgh. It was only towards the latter part of the Anglo-Saxon period that Edinburgh was finally taken by the Scots and became, together with the surrounding areas, recognisably Scottish as opposed to English.

During the earlier medieval period, as was the case in England, the Scottish kings and parliaments tended to be fairly nomadic and it is doubtful if the concept of being a capital city was well understood. In fact, the city of Perth to the north was the original crowning place of the kings of Scotland. It was only latterly that Edinburgh’s importance grew, as it became clear that a location for government further south was required in order to offset the threat posed by the medieval English kings.

Edinburgh – the Athens of the North

In 1603 the crowns of England and Scotland were united upon the death of Elizabeth I under James VI of Scotland / James I of England. Although Edinburgh remained capital of an independent Scotland for another 100 years or so until the Act of Union, the removal of much of the friction and rivalry between the two nations lead to an incredible flowering of Scottish intellectual genius. This made it arguably the pre-eminent city in Europe in terms of education and progression of human knowledge. This tradition is maintained to this day. Students on school trips may be able to see evidence of this in the number of fine and imposing schools and educational facilities around the city.

A UNESCO world heritage site

School trips to Edinburgh can help students explore the medieval old town as it runs down from the world-famous castle towards Holyrood Palace (the Palace of the Stuart kings of Scotland). It is also the home of the new Scottish parliament building. Across Princes Street from the Old Town, you can find the New Town. This is an incredible area of the city, containing magnificent buildings that were laid out in planned fashion during the 18th century. This was done both as a practical measure to add space to the growing city, but also as a statement of enlightenment and civilisation, to distinguish it from the unplanned organic nature of the Old Town. In effect, the New Town is a statement of intent and optimism for the future, and today both it and the Old Town are UNESCO world heritage sites.

In terms of getting closer to UK history, school trips to Edinburgh may be hard to beat.

Angela Bowden works for EST (Equity School Travel), the UK’s largest educational travel company, providing school trips for secondary schools, primary schools and colleges. School trips with EST can encompass a wide range of learning and more in worldwide destinations.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Here are some suggestions to get your holiday started on the right foot once you disembark from your Venice Airport water taxi.

Go inside St Mark’s Basilica

Many people are surprised to learn that St Mark’s Basilica is free to go into. It can get very busy, but if you can arrive early you may beat some of the queues. It is the most famous of all the churches in the city and is one of the highlights of any trip there. You can appreciate the Byzantine architecture without spending anything in the process.

Visit St Mark’s Square

Otherwise known as Piazza San Marco, this square is where you will find St Mark’s Basilica, so here you have two free activities to enjoy in the same day. Indeed if you arrive early via the Venice Airport water taxi you may want to ask for directions to the Piazza; everyone will know where you want to go. Watch out for the Clock Tower and the Piazzetta dei Leoncini, another open space to appreciate.

Explore the Jewish ghetto

Sometimes referred to as the Venetian Ghetto, this area was home to the Jews during the Venetian Republic. The area stands out because it has much taller buildings than some other areas of the city. This is because the Jews had to make do with a small area and thus built their homes higher than was needed elsewhere. It is an attractive and worthwhile area to explore.

Visit the Rialto Bridge

You may also see this referred to as the Ponte di Rialto – ponte meaning bridge in Italian. It is a famous bridge that is built from stone and provides a crossing over the Grand Canal. You will travel on this same canal when you catch your Venice Airport water taxi, so this is another nice opportunity to see more of it. The best part of this bridge is that it has a number of stalls across it, selling a range of delights and goods.

Visit the parks of Venice

While the city is known for its canals, waterways and charming architecture, it has even more to offer than this. There are a number of delightful parks in the city, from Giardini Papadopoli to Giardini Napoleonici, so if you feel as if you need some downtime from the hustle and bustle of the city, take a picnic into one of the parks instead.

As you can see Venice has lots of free things to see and do, and some of them are arguably among the most famous things to do of all, so they should not be missed by anyone.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Geneva airport taxi transfer, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a seres of internet marketing training seminars.

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The Jet d’Eau — No matter where you are on the banks of lake Geneva, you will likely be able to see a bit of the Jet d’Eau, which is a towering plume of water that propels 500 litres of water up to 140 metres into the air. What was once a pressure release valve at the Coulouvrenière Hydraulic Factory, this landmark became a permanent fixture in 1891. But unless you want to get soaked by the falling water, it is best to stay on the banks when viewing this interesting landmark. Coming into the Geneva airport, taxi drivers that are there to take you into the city will happily point out the fountain of water as you pass by on the way to your hotel.

Saint Peter’s Cathedral — If you are wondering what is one of the first things you need to see once you land at Geneva airport, taxi drivers will be the first to give you advice as you ride into the city. Saint Peter’s Cathedral sits at the top of 157 steps and provides you a wonderful panorama of the city. It was begun in 1160 and restored and added to over the centuries. Its current whitewashed look came about in the middle of the 18th century and provides the Cathedral with neo-classical elegance befitting its physical location. The Cathedral played an important part in the Reformation and the adjoining International Museum of the Reformation is perfectly situated to tell the story.

The Schtrumpfs — If you know that you want to see the interesting array of apartments you’ve heard about when you arrive at Geneva airport, taxi drivers will take you over behind the Cornavin train station to the area of houses located at 3-29 rue Louis-Favre. Named after the French word for Smurfs, the Schtrumpfs refers to the modern architectural landmark that must be seen to be fully understood. Between 1982 and 1984, three architects built these apartment buildings with the intention of creating the most unconventionally designed buildings possible. They used mouldings, chrome, mosaics, and wrought iron (among other materials) to create an unusual amalgamation of style that conjures Barcelona’s Antoni Gaudi. After viewing the buildings, it is easy to see why they have earned the nickname of the Schtrumpfs.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Geneva airport taxi transfer, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a seres of internet marketing training seminars.

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Le Floris — If you are a savvy diner and know that you have just a few nights in the city, then booking a table at Le Floris before you land is a wise move when coming to Geneva. Airport taxi drivers can be booked to drive you to your hotel for you to drop your bags and freshen up before they take you on to the front door of Le Floris. Located at Route d’Hermance 287 CH – 1247 Anières, Le Floris sits on the left bank of Lake Geneva and commands a stunning view. The restaurant is smart and well designed to make the most of its location and the natural light. It consists of a bistro, a restaurant, and a terrace area where you can dine when the weather is nice. Inside, the kitchen is run by French chef Claude Legras, who serves up food that is known for its incorporation of flowers. If you plan ahead, you could confidently order the bouillabaisse before you arrive; it’s not on the menu, but is considered to be ‘legendary.’

Domaine de Châteauvieux — On the right bank, overlooking the Rhone River is the two Michelin starred restaurant Domaine de Châteauvieux. This picturesque manor house location, which was once a farm, is surrounded by vineyards and is now a working hotel, complete with helipad should you choose not to take a Geneva airport taxi! The menu is comprised of French classics with a modern twist, and the restaurant has an amazing array of wines to accompany the dishes. If you are feeling special, you can even book the chef’s table, which is immersed in the action of the kitchen and provides an interesting tasting menu.

Le Clos des Sens — One you arrive into the Geneva airport, taxi drivers will be lined up to take you to wherever you want. Why not book ahead and make plans to go directly to the hotel and restaurant at Le Clos des Sens, located at 13 r. J. -Mermoz F – 74940 Annecy? Le Clos des Sens offers food that is traditionally French, with a seasonal twist that keeps the menu fresh and exhilarating. The restaurant is elegant and relaxing with the choice of dining areas that can fit any mood or occasion.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Geneva airport taxi transfer, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a seres of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art — Located at Rue Des Vieux-Grenadiers 10, the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MAMCO) was opened in 1994 in a former factory building. The MAMCO has a range of art from the mid 1960s onwards and includes paintings, photography and sculpture, and special exhibitions, among others. It is one of the most well known museums in the city and is worth taking the time to visit. A short ride from Geneva airport, taxi drivers can easily take you right from the terminal to the MAMCO if you are pushed for time and want to see one of the special exhibits.

The Musée Ariana — Located on the grounds adjoining the United Nations, at Ave de la Paix 10, within easy driving distance for a Geneva airport taxi driver, is the the Musée Ariana. Also known as the Swiss Museum of Ceramics and Glass, it was built in a neo-Baroque style between the years of 1877 and 1884 to house the private collections of Swiss collector Gustave Revilliod, and was named after his mother, Ariane de la Rive. The museum contains over 20,000 works of ceramics and glass that date back to the 1300s and is the only museum of its kind in Switzerland.

The Art and History Museum — If you are ready to get your exploration going, when you land at Geneva airport taxi drivers will be happy to take you to your hotel and wait to then drop you off for a look around the Art and History Museum, located at Rue Ch.-Galland 2. As the largest in the city, you need to give yourself plenty of time to take in the collections of this ‘encyclopaedic museum.’ Built between 1903 and 1910, it has three sections that represent a collection that covers the whole of Western culture – from its ancient history to its present days. It is broken into three sections: Archaeology, Fine Arts (including works by Houdon and Rodin), and Applied Arts, which showcases objects from the Middle Ages through to the 20th century.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Geneva airport taxi transfer, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a seres of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Parc des Bastions — In the home of what was once the botanical gardens lies Parc des Bastions. When you arrive at Geneva airport, taxi drivers will be waiting to take you into the city and will gladly take you via this stunning park. The tree-lined park is home to the city’s first university, and is a popular place for students, locals, and visitors alike. The life-size chess boards at the north side of the park provide visitors with an interesting way to test their prowess by challenging some of the local masters.

The English Garden — Before you return to the Geneva airport, taxi routes can be tailored to take you along the Quai Gustave-Ador to see the English Garden one last time before you head away. The park was created in 1854 and was embellished and enlarged over time. It sits near the Jet d’Eau water fountain, and is home to the famous ‘flower clock’, which shows the city’s commitment to integrating nature and modernity.

Parc La Grange — Created in 1945-46, the Parc La Grange is a stunning green space known for its roses, and has the equivalent of one rose bush planted for every square metre. As the city’s largest park, with over 1,200 square metres of land along the lake, it is a beautiful and fragrant place to while away a bit of time. Parc La Grange is perfect for visiting straight after landing at the Geneva airport. Taxi drivers will happily take you to the main entrance and point you in the direction of the rose garden or the Verdure Theatre, which hosts free concerts every Wednesday and Friday during the summer.

The Perle-du-Lac — One of the parks that you must see before you return to the Geneva airport, taxi drivers will be glad to take you here from your hotel. The ‘Pearl of the Lake’ is a park that is situated in an area that has been a prized piece of land since the ancient days, as has been indicated by the remains of richly ornate Roman baths found there. With many species of flowers and plants that enrich your view of Mont Blanc and the lake, the Perle-du-Lac park is a perfect place to go when you need a break from visiting the History of Science Museum, located within.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Geneva airport taxi transfer, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Grand Theatre of Geneva — The stunning building that houses the Grand Theatre of Geneva overlooks the Place Neuve, and can easily be pointed out by your Geneva airport taxi driver on your way to your hotel. The Grand Theatre was built in the early 1800s to take the place of the Rosaline Theatre on the other side of the Place Neuve. It was built and re-built over the years, with its current incarnation opening to the public in 1962.

Victoria Hall — Victoria Hall was constructed near the Grand Theatre, between the years 1891 and 1894, in honour of Queen Victoria of England. Its French ‘Beaux-Arts’ style architecture is imposing and beautiful, but the auditorium is what is noteworthy. Known to have some of the best acoustics in the world, the classical concerts give here are almost incomparable. As soon as you arrive in Geneva, airport taxi drivers will take you to your hotel so you can be free to book tickets for the latest show at Victoria Hall.

Le Bâtiment des Forces Motrices — Built between 1883 and 1892, by Théodore Turrettini, as a hydroelectric power plant, the Le Bâtiment des Forces Motrices is an excellent example of the re-appropriation of traditional buildings. Ask your Geneva airport taxi driver to swing by the stunning building on your way to your hotel and see the building, which was abandoned in the 1960s and turned into a concert hall in 1997. To compensate for a lack of space, the stage is rather deeply set in the 800-person (140 in the balcony) wooden concert hall, and this set up works out rather beautifully. Since changing purposes, the building itself is now officially known as the BFM.

The Ateliers d’ethnomusicologie — Once you arrive into Geneva airport, taxi drivers may be the best bet to ask about events organised by The Ateliers d’ethnomusicologie. Founded in 1983, this organisation puts together lessons, courses, and festivals throughout the city in various venues, including those in the summer at the Ella Fitzgerald Stage in the Parc La Grange, where the concerts are free and usually feature a mix of big names and up and coming singers.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Geneva airport taxi transfer, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Wawel Castle

Built on Wawel Hill, a centre for trade since the Palaeolithic Age, Wawel Castle in Cracow was once the residence of Polish kings and the site of royal coronations. Built as a gothic castle during the time of Casimir III the Great, it has undergone several reconstructions, with structures being added onto the original castle and courtyard. After World War I, Wawel Castle was given national recognition, serving as the official residence of the President of Poland in the 1920s. After World War II, Wawel Castle was turned into a national museum, with several exhibitions and serving as the tombs of several Polish kings and national heroes.

Hradčany Castle

Hradčany Castle in Prague is the largest medieval castle in the world. Hradčany Castle was first built in the 9th century as a wooden construction, but has been destroyed and rebuilt several times since. Also known as Prague Castle, it is a monumental complex that can be considered a town in its own right, representing all architectural styles and periods of its 11 centuries of existence in Europe. Train holidays allow you the opportunity to alight and explore Prague and this wonderful castle. It is surrounded by three castle courtyards, and covers 45 hectares. Originally the residence of princes and kings of Bohemia, it has served as the seat of the president since 1918 and is considered as the symbolic heart of the nation.

Marienburg Castle

Marienburg Castle, also known as Malbork Castle, is considered the largest castle in Europe – according to surface area. Completed in 1406, it was declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1997. Once a residence of the Grand Master of the Teutonic Knights and Kings of Poland, Marienburg Castle now functions as a museum showcasing medieval weaponry and artefacts from the Teutonic way of life. In summer, Marienburg Castle holds a festival with a ‘Siege of the Malbork Castle’, which includes mock battles and tournaments, along with other forms of traditional entertainment.

These are only a few of the castles that you can visit while travelling through Europe. Train holidays, among other advantages, allow for leisurely explorations of visited sites, with none of the rush and stress of regular means of transportation. And once done with your tour, you can rest in your luxurious sleeping car, have a drink in the lounge car, or recuperate with a great meal in the dining car on your way to the next castle!

Anna Copeland is the Marketing Manager for The Danube Express, which specialises in Europe train holidays . The Danube Express has a range of exclusive train holidays to Europe, travelling across countries like Poland, Hungary and Turkey.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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With collections encompassing art from almost every age and culture in the world, the Big Apple offers one of the most comprehensive art experiences available, and has something to suit every class’s focus. And, of course, the city itself is an incredibly inspiring, visually stimulating place – a walking tour with sketchbooks or cameras is bound to produce great results. Here are some of New York’s artistic highlights.

Museum of Modern Art

Arguably the most famous modern art museum in the world, the Museum of Modern Art, or MoMA, houses a collection of over 150,000 pieces of art, including drawings, paintings, prints, photography, film, electronic works, sculptures, and works of design and architecture – meaning that it has wide appeal for school trips. Important pieces include Van Gough’s Starry Night, Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup Cans, Matisses’s The Dance I, and Pollock’s Number 31. As well as its collections, it contains archives of material relating to modern art history.

The Guggenheim

Not only an inspiring and innovative art museum, the Guggenheim is an iconic work of 20th century architecture, and always popular with students on school trips. With its permanent and temporary exhibitions providing a thought-provoking range of modern and contemporary art, as well as an engaging performance programme and educational centre, a visit to the Guggenheim is an eye-opening experience, bringing young art lovers up to date with the ever-changing art world.

The Whitney Museum of American Art

One of the best things about visiting another country on school trips is the chance to let your students immerse themselves in a side of artistic history and culture that they may not be very familiar with, and this is where the Whitney Museum of American Art comes in. With its galleries, film and performance programmes, multimedia displays and temporary exhibitions it offers a comprehensive, contextual view of American art. It serves to provoke some interesting discussion of differences and similarities between artistic culture in different countries.

New York Public Art

While it’s easy to lose track of time exploring the city’s galleries, not all the art in New York is indoors. This creative and diverse city is home to an abundance of public art: often beautiful, sometimes surprising, always interesting. From sculptures in parks and squares to murals and art incorporated into architecture, there is something to see at every turn. Temporary outdoor installations are common, so look out for local arts listings during your trip – you never know what you might find, or what it could inspire.

Angela Bowden works for STS (School Travel Service), the UK’s largest educational travel company, providing school trips for secondary schools, primary schools and colleges. School trips with STS can encompass art/design, foreign languages, history, science/nature, geography and more, to worldwide destinations.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Edo-Tokyo Museum

Tokyo, formerly known as Edo, was originally a fishing village and then a fortified town, and although it was only made the imperial capital in 1866 it enjoyed a long and prosperous history beforehand. As Edo, it was chosen by the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu for his seat of power, and became one of the world’s largest cities, as well as effectively being the cultural capital of the nation. When Japan returned to imperial rule with the Meiji Restoration, the Emperor moved there from Kyoto and established the City of Tokyo. Students on school trips to Japan will most likely be familiar with this history; however, the wealth of detail on offer at the Edo-Tokyo Museum goes beyond anything that can be learned in the classroom. With original artefacts and faithful reconstructions, it tracks the culture, politics and daily life of the city from its beginnings to the present day, and even looks to the future.

Kyoto Imperial Palace

The Kyoto Imperial Palace was the Emperor’s official seat of power since the 12th century and up until the Meiji Restoration, although the building has gone through many incarnations; the current one dates from 1855, but its style harks back to the architecture of the Heian Period. Students on school trips with an interest in the Imperial court during the Meiji era and earlier will find plenty to fascinate them here, with tours of the buildings and grounds revealing the halls, state rooms, and residences of important figures.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial

School trips to Japan also offer students the opportunity to learn more about the Asian and Pacific side of the Second World War, while the Hiroshima Peace Memorial serves as a reminder of the war’s devastating impact. Although it can be a sobering experience, a visit to the Peace Museum brings home lasting damage of the bombing, with exhibitions of objects and photographs, but it is also a place to learn about efforts being made towards worldwide peace, with a good selection of material aimed at enabling school groups to explore these issues.

Angela Bowden works for STS (School Travel Service), the UK’s largest educational travel company, providing school trips for secondary schools, primary schools and colleges. School trips with STS can encompass art/design, foreign languages, history, science/nature, geography and more, to worldwide destinations.

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For its natural and historical wonders, its ever-growing and adapting civilisation, and its position as a forerunner of knowledge and technology, India is a dream destination for geography-based school trips. A huge country, full of many distinct cultures, not to mention all its varying terrains, it would be impossible to see everything – luckily, there’s a world of knowledge and discovery within Delhi. Here are some of the ways this great metropolis could help boost your students’ learning.

Explore the Metropolis

Geography encompasses the study of urban centres and the way they develop to reflect expanding populations and interaction with the rest of the world. School trips to Delhi offer the perfect illustration of a city that has been doing just that across many ages. Although New Delhi was only made India’s capital in 1931, the area is known to have been continuously inhabited since the 6th century BCE, and Delhi itself has been a key city in regional trade and politics since the founding of a walled city (now Old Delhi) by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in 1639. With an area of 177 square kilometres and population of over eleven million, the metropolis balances the ancient with the cutting-edge, and offers a unique study in human growth and urban development. Spending some time in the grandeur of New Delhi and the bustle of Old Delhi is a great way to begin exploring these topics.

Monuments and Museums

Anyone with an interest in how different groups interact can learn plenty from Delhi’s multicultural, multi-faith population. With Hinduism in the majority, the city is also home to communities of Muslims, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, Parsis, Christians and Jews. With monuments and temples from all groups, many of them open to visitors, there is plenty of opportunity to explore. Other historic sites of interest include the magnificent Red Fort, the Jama Masjid, and the national monument India Gate. Museums include the National Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, the National Rail Museum.

Green Delhi

One important concern for geographers studying urban areas is the increasing importance of integrating ecology into our cities. Although it has been a densely populated urban centre for centuries, Delhi has never forgotten the need for green spaces and nature, and today’s ecologists are continuing to explore the potential of Delhi’s parks and its animal populations. Students on school trips will be able to observe a unique urban ecosystem, and a visit to Buddha Jayanti Park will provide a great space for discussing how biodiversity can be preserved in an ever-growing city.

Angela Bowden works for STS (School Travel Service), the UK’s largest educational travel company, providing school trips for secondary schools, primary schools and colleges. School trips with STS can encompass art/design, foreign languages, history, science/nature, geography and more, to worldwide destinations.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Jorvik Viking Centre

York is home to one of the UK’s most astounding archaeological discoveries: the Viking city of Jorvik, dating from over a millennium ago. The Roman city of Eboracum was conquered by the Danish army in 866, and renamed Jorvik. Under the Vikings, it became a vital river port and flourished. Buried under the city’s subsequent incarnations, it remained hidden until the late 20th century, when large-scale excavations uncovered its streets and buildings and the York Archaeological Trust established the Jorvik Viking Centre to showcase their findings to visitors. The recreated Viking city includes reconstructed houses and workshops complete with the sights, sounds and smells of the era, making it a memorable experience for students on school trips. It is complemented by a range of workshops including Viking Fashion, Viking Medicines, Viking Battle Tactics and Viking Sagas.

York Minster

There has been a building on the site of the York Minster since the city’s founding, and parts of the Roman fortress still remain under the Minster’s foundations. The first church was built there in the 7th century, and was rebuilt a few times before the current cathedral was commissioned in around 1080. This iconic building has borne witness to almost a millennium of York’s history, and remains a wonderful place for students to delve into the past, with the chance to explore the remnants of Norman and Roman structures underground and enjoy the Gothic magnificence of the cathedral itself.

National Railway Museum

To bring your history school trips up to the modern era, take your students to the National Railway Museum. Here, the last two centuries of transportation are brought to life with an astonishing collection of trains housed in huge halls. With famous locomotives from around Britain and the world – as well as comprehensive displays on the history and significance of rail transportation – this is a must for any groups with an interest in the industrial age and onwards. It offers great curriculum links with science and geography, as well.

Angela Bowden works for STS (School Travel Service), the UK’s largest educational travel company, providing school trips for secondary schools, primary schools and colleges. School trips with STS can encompass art/design, foreign languages, history, science/nature, geography and more, to worldwide destinations.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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The Trail in a Nutshell

If you are interested in going walking in Canada then you will probably already know just how beautiful this country is and what it can offer hikers. This vast country entices those with a spirit of adventure, but sometimes you may not know how to get access to different parts of the country. The Trans Canada Trail comprises a network of trails all across the country. In fact, when it is completed it will be the world’s largest such network and will stretch for 22,500 kilometres. At the moment, 16,500 kilometres have been developed.

The idea was devised in 1992, and it now stretches right across the country, going through every province from the Pacific to the Atlantic, and up to the Arctic Ocean. Millions of people from all over the world visit it each year, and if you are keen to experience some of the best walking trails on the planet, then it may be time to join them!

Highlights of the Trail

If you are interested in exploring the trail whilst walking in Canada, hiking is likely to be the obvious draw card for you. However, you don’t have to stop there because, although this is ideal for hikers, there are also areas on the trail where you can go cycling, horseback riding, skiing, canoeing and more.

Top Trails

If you want to explore some of the separate trails that the trail comprises when walking in Canada, there are many to choose from. Some of the best, however, include:

-Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park, in Alberta, which provides you with 3,430 acres of stunning wilderness.

-Sentier Mestashibo, which stretches along the Sainte-Anne-du-Nord river and comprises forest trails, scree slopes and beautiful panoramic views.

-The Salt Marsh Trail, which follows the now abandoned Musquodoboit railroad, and comprising of a mix of urban and rural scenery.

Explore the Country by Foot

Walking in Canada is the ideal way to spend a holiday, whether you want to spend a week or a month hiking through the wilderness. This outstanding and scenic trail provides a fantastic way for you to choose an area of the country that you want to explore and then head on a guided walk to experience it up close and personal.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Join us on a holiday walking in Canada to see scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.

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There is a large network of trails stretching for over 80 km across the park, and if you want to discover the Laurentian Mountains then hiking is the ideal way to see the area. But walking and hiking are not the only things to do here, there is plenty more on offer. Here are some of the other activities you may be interested in trying out when you organise a holiday which is based on walking in Canada.

Cross Country Skiing

Skiing is one of the most popular activities in Mont Tremblant National Park after hiking, and during the winter months many people head here to enjoy the fantastic cross country opportunities on offer. The best place to go is La Diable, which comprises about 60 km of well-groomed trails for all abilities. If you want to ski here then you should arrange your trip between December and March.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is another very popular activity to consider trying when you arrange a trip to this park to enjoy some of the best walking in Canada. There are nearly 50 km of trails to explore in this way, divided between La Diable and La Pimbina, and wherever you go you will be able to enjoy a pristine natural environment and some spectacular views.

Swimming

When you visit Mont Tremblant National Park to go walking in Canada during the summer months, you may find that you need to cool off a little during the day. Luckily, in the park you will find two beaches! They are both supervised and fully serviced so that you can relax and take it easy to give your feet a rest.

Cycling

There are seven different cycling circuits in Mont Tremblant National Park, and in total they add up to provide 63 km of trails. The season for cycling starts in May and lasts up until it starts to snow, so you have plenty of time throughout the year to take part in this activity.

Enjoy All That Mont Tremblant National Park Has to Offer

Mont Tremblant National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks in the country, so if you are wondering where in particular to go this could well be the one to choose. Walking in Canada on a guided tour is a fantastic way to spend your holiday, but don’t forget about all of the other activities that are available as well.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Join us on a holiday walking in Canada to see scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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The Canadian Rockies are very different from the American Rockies. They look more rugged in appearance, and because it is wetter there are more glaciers and rivers to admire. It is the perfect place to head to if you have never been walking in Canada before and you want to experience the “real deal” on a guided tour that has everything.

National Parks

There are a total of five national parks to explore, so you can take your pick or visit them all.
Banff, Jasper, Kootenay and Yoho are four national parks which are all interlocked, and together they form part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fifth park in the Rockies is Waterton, which is not connected and is located further south. All of the parks provide something slightly different in terms of attractions and landscape, so it is well worth trying to get around to see them all if you can.

High Peaks

There are a number of lofty mountain peaks in the Rockies, and the tallest of the lot is Mount Robson at 3,594 metres. This looks down over Yellowhead Pass to provide some absolutely stunning views, but only the experienced should attempt to climb in. Instead, try to get a look at it from ground level – gazing upwards, the sight is just as majestic. The peak of Mount Columbia stands at 3,747 metres, and this again requires some experience if you want to attempt to reach the summit. However, it requires less technical experience than Mount Robson. The easiest of the big mountains in the Rockies is Mount Temple. You do not need any technical knowledge to climb this, but it is still not suitable for beginners, so only attempt it if you have some experience. If you are adventurous enough to attempt a climb, make sure you go prepared as the slopes are covered in snow there is a glacier at the top!

Activities

There are plenty of activities to enjoy when you head to the Rockies, so don’t feel that you have to limit yourself to hiking. Anyone organising a trip to go walking in Canada will probably want to enjoy some backcountry hiking, but there is also dog sledding, ice climbing, skiing, ice walks, sleigh rides and more on offer, so try to find an activity that sounds right for you. If you want to go walking in Canada on a guided tour, then the Rockies provide you with a fantastic opportunity to see the very best of this stunning country.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Join us on a holiday walking in Canada to see scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.

If you want to go walking in Canada on a guided tour, then the Rockies provide you with a fantastic opportunity to see the very best of this stunning country.

Sacred Valley Treks

You have a wide range of options when it comes to treks in the Sacred Valley, and some of the most popular are those that lie within the scenic Urubamba countryside. You can use Yucay and Ollantaytambo, both located in the Urubamba countryside, as bases for your guided walks in Peru. These and other options abound so that you can take hikes of varying lengths. One of the most gorgeous hikes that you want to consider is the one that goes from the Inca site, known as Moray, all the way to the Salineras salt mines. It is a sightseeing walk of great beauty and no one should miss it.

Colca Canyon Hiking

Colca Canyon is another destination that should definitely be on your radar. One of the favourites for those visiting this canyon is the hike that goes down into the canyon. This particular one can be done from the Cruz del Condor lookout. Again, this is a setting that offers a variety of options so that you may partake of extra long hikes if that is your pleasure, or shorter ones if those are more your style. You can even walk from one village that is located in the valley to the next village in the valley if you so choose. If you feel like you have had enough walks in Peru for one day and want another method of transportation around this area, then you can always opt to travel on horseback instead!

Volcano And Mountain Climbs In The Arequipa Area

There are many chances for serious climbers to show what they can do on volcano and mountain climbs in the Arequipa area, but there are some paths that are ideal for those who are not practiced climbers as well. Some of the most popular climbs available in this area include El Misti and Chachani. For those who are true climbers and adventurers the peaks of Coropuna and Ampato Volcano will provide a suitable challenge – but these are only meant for those whose climbing skills are top notch. However, the easier options are there too – it all depends on your level of fitness and your desire.

These are without a doubt some of the best guided walks in Peru. They show you the landscapes of the country, and in doing so allow you to take in some of the best nature sights in the world.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. For walks in Peru see our incredible selection. Join us to experience scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Bird Watching And Other Wildlife Watching In The Peruvian Amazon

The Amazon rainforest in Peru is known for being home to an extraordinary range of birds and other animals, so it is the ideal place to go looking for wildlife. You never know what you might see while venturing into this rainforest – although you can bet that you will always be amazed. The Manu Biosphere Reserve and the Tambopata National Reserve are both ideal locations for these activities, and offer up over 1,000 different bird species for your viewing pleasure. There is a good chance you will get to see thousands of parrots and macaws while they feed at clay licks, and this is an experience you shouldn’t miss. You may also be lucky enough to lay eyes on animals that are harder to spot – such as river otters and jaguars if you take some of your guided walks in Peru in particular areas.

Cordillera Blanca Treks

The highest tropical mountain chain in the entire world is the Cordillera Blanca. The majority of this mountain chain can be found within the borders of Huascaran National Park and it features some of the most breathtaking scenery to be found anywhere in the country. Your journey to this location will allow you to witness first-hand the lakes, rivers, glaciers, and even the snow-capped peaks to be found within this mountain range. There are a whopping 50 summits here, that reach anywhere from 15,748ft high to 21,857ft high. Cordillera Blanca treks are ideal for those seeking casual guided walks in Peru, as well as for serious mountaineers. The splendour of nature is waiting to be found on the Cordillera Blanca mountain range for anyone who takes the time to make the trek.

White Water Rafting

In case you are looking for some extreme excitement while you are here, you should consider white water rafting. This isn’t just any white water rafting though. It’s everything from mild rafting to class VI rapids – thanks to the Tabopata River, the Rio Majes, Rio Cotahuasi, the Rio Chili, and the Rio Colca. These many choices allow rafters to devote a single day to this endeavour, or even several days if one is an ambitious and experienced white water rafter.

Your guided walks in Peru can take you to an adventure, or they can be adventures in and of themselves. There are magnificent sights to be seen all over the country – you simply need to know where to head.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. For walks in Peru see our incredible selection. Join us to experience scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Eastwoodhill Arboretum

The Eastwoodhill Arboretum is arguably the best garden in the country. Perhaps the most intriguing fact is that this garden is the culmination of a single man’s life’s work. It showcases in excess of 3,500 different species of plants and is such an amazing display of varied flora that is has on many occasions been the subject of study by international scientists. The colours are vibrant and only get better heading into the autumn months. Remember to take a camera with you so that you will be able to capture beauty, the likes of which you may never see again. At least not until you come back to the Eastwoodhill Arboretum next time!

Hamilton Gardens

These gardens are located along the banks of the beautiful Waikato River. This expansive 143-acre reserve is an idyllic setting for casual walks that allow you plenty of time to stop and take in the magnificent flora. The development started approximately 30 years ago and has led to the modern day miracle that is the Hamilton Gardens. It includes such offerings as an English garden, an Asian garden, herb gardens, and a plethora of unique tree life.

Dunedin Chinese Garden

There are only three authentic Chinese gardens that exist in the world outside China – and the Dunedin Chinese Garden is one of them. Chinese artisans originally constructed this garden in Shanghai. They later took it apart and sent the various components to its current location to become the Dunedin Chinese Garden. The reassembling process was overseen by Chinese craftsmen to ensure that the end result was a genuine Chinese garden. This beautiful garden is a rarity and merits a visit from those lucky enough to find the opportunity.

Mona Vale

This garden is a smaller offering, often overshadowed by some of the larger ones of the country – but if you get the opportunity to visit, don’t pass it up. It is spread out around a Victorian home and has many attractions that make it more than worth a side trip on your walking holidays. New Zealand has many lesser-known attractions like this just waiting to be discovered. Mona Vale has irises scattered along the banks of streams, glorious fountains, and classic roses that thrive in this environment. There is so much to see here on your walking holidays; New Zealand residents even come out to spend time in this luxurious garden to enjoy its beauty.

Each one of these gardens displays its own special merits in design and plant life, and each one offers you a new view on the diverse landscape. For walking holidays, New Zealand is unmatched, and even those of mild levels of fitness can enjoy walks like these ones.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. For walking holidays New Zealand is a fascinating destination. Join us to experience scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Tackle Dead Mileage
Drivers and companies alike in the courier industry dread one thing more than increased petrol prices: dead mileage. It’s simply not cost effective when a litre of fuel now costs 40 pence more than it did four years ago.

Becoming part of a network of courier services allows drivers to work out their routes in advance and enables the possibility of backload returns. Sharing the information of routes and pickups is far more reliable than starting out solo and trying to source and maintain clients without a large customer base to fall back on.

Beat Rising Petrol Prices
The rise of prices is a persistent concern for all owner-driver couriers. Several tips can help prevent you forking out the most costly prices. Source the cheapest petrol stations on your route, keep an eye out when you’re passing them and jot them down when you stop. Sounds like a bit of hard work, but doing this and using the lowest priced pumps on your trip can significantly cut your costs down over the year.

Sussex and the Orkney Islands (although there probably aren’t too many delivery jobs there) rank among the highest charging areas, with prices between £1.50 and £1.70 a litre. Several websites calculate the price of petrol by typing in postcodes which help couriers figure out the most economic way to fill up. Be sure, however, not to go out of your way to do this or it will wipe out any cost cutting measures.

Be Patient
Before starting out, be aware of the major myths. Yes, you can earn up to £300 a day but this might not happen every day nor when you’re initially starting out. As a courier driver you need to be patient, persistent, be able to fund yourself and prepare for the cost of wear and tear and insurance. The first year may see low profits or breakeven status but established courier drivers can make a comfortable living while at the same time travelling around the country and in Europe.

Time is Essential
Giving a realistic delivery time and adhering to it is essential to survive in the industry. If you think you’re going to be held up, call up the client or your contractor as soon as you know – don’t leave it until the last minute or repeat customers won’t come back.

Norman Dulwich is a Correspondent for Haulage Exchange, the leading online trade network for the road transport industry across the UK and Europe. It provides services for companies to buy and sell haulage work, road transport and freight exchange in the domestic and international markets.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.
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Areas Likely to be Affected
Courier firms and delivery drivers are at pains to make businesses around the country aware of the fact that the games will inevitably cause hiccups. The Olympics will take place between the 27th of July and the 12th of August. Events are to be hosted in sites across the city as well as at Brands Hatch in Kent, Dorney Lake in Buckinghamshire, Hadleigh Farm in Essex, Lee Valley in Hertfordshite, Weymouth in Dorset and the football matches in Cardiff and Glasgow.

Advice from the Industry
It’s not just the huge influx of visitors that is going to cause disruption for businesses in the capital – the organisers of the games have already publicised an extensive programme of parking restrictions, road closures and curfews on delivering during specified hours. The country’s largest courier companies have been working to establish the best way of operating during the games to ensure a reliable and regular service for the duration. They’ve had plenty of time to prepare, but they are keen to ensure that their customers are also doing what they can to keep deliveries flowing smoothly for the three weeks of the games.

The advice from courier companies is that businesses need to understand the size of the Olympics, and that the sheer number of people who will be piling into the city will inevitably cause problems. The delivery companies are making efforts to put systems in place to keep customers informed of the situation, but they want businesses to plan ahead as much as they can, by making even more effort not to leave deliveries to the last minute during the period, and to keep recipients informed if the games might be holding a delivery up. Delivery companies will keep their websites regularly updated during the games so that business customers can track their packages.

Norman Dulwich is a Correspondent for Haulage Exchange, the leading online trade network for the road transport industry across the UK and Europe. It provides services for companies to buy and sell haulage work, road transport and freight exchange in the domestic and international markets.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Background
The fuel crisis (as the rules of 24-hour rolling news hyperbole have dubbed it) had its roots in the moment in late 2007 when fuel prices scrambled above £1 per litre. This important psychological moment opened the gates to allow the price to creep inexorably upwards, even when the price of oil had demonstrably fallen. Amidst a perceived atmosphere of profiteering by the petrol and oil companies, the drivers involved in the haulage work felt that they were being over-worked and taken advantage of in the further pursuit of profit.

The Path to Panic
Following the imposition of various taxes by the coalition government in a bid to rein in public finances, union representatives and tanker drivers began discussing the possibility of industrial action following the announcement of the chancellor George Osborne’s April 2012 budget. Passions had been running high in the industry following concerns that the largest fuel sellers, including supermarkets, were making use of lower quality and less experienced rival firms from outside the fuel delivery sector. The budget announced in April was seen by many segments of society as unfairly harsh upon the lower paid and easier on the wealthy – further increasing the desire to at least discuss the possibility of industrial action by workers.

Whipping up Passions
Cynics have suggested that the government jumped on the threat by members of the United union to strike as a way to deflect attention from issues happening elsewhere. Statements from several members of the United Kingdom government, including the Prime Minister David Cameron and a Cabinet minister Francis Maude, encouraged the public to panic buy – leading to large queues and confusion and bemusement amongst members of the population. Although the queues have gone the situation remains uncertain, and those involved in haulage work in the fuel industry still face an unknown future.

Norman Dulwich is a Correspondent for Haulage Exchange, the leading online trade network for the road transport industry across the UK and Europe. It provides services for companies to buy and sell haulage work, road transport and freight exchange in the domestic and international markets.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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While you’re spending time on the island, you might occasionally make it out of your hotel room – having come this far, you really should! When you make it into the open air, you’ll find an incredible range of activities available to you to get the pulse racing, or to help you enjoy the tranquillity of the West Indies. Here are some of the activities that those on St Lucia honeymoons might consider:

Fishing: If you enjoy relaxing by casting your line from the back of a boat, then you and your new spouse might like to take to the waves. The deep sea fishing scene in the area is particularly vibrant, with plenty of game fish inhabiting the surrounding ocean, including blue marlin, sailfish, tuna, mako sharks and barracuda. If this is the kind of excursion that might interest you both, ask your resort to arrange a fishing charter.

Diving: For a less fish-fatal excursion, donning some scuba equipment and taking the plunge is a fantastic way of getting up close and personal with your aquatic counterparts during your St Lucia honeymoons. Local guides suggest that the best diving and snorkelling is to be found at Anse Chatanet Beach. Here you’ll find beautiful coral reefs at shallow depths of between 3 and 6 metres, easy to reach and enchanting to explore. Ask the staff at your hotel if there are any deals offered with local diving companies. There are several options when it comes to choosing a diving base: the PADI dive centre offers beach-front 5-star luxury, while the Jalousie Plantation offers diving spots near the national marine park.

Jungle Exploration: A dry-land alternative to fishing and diving. St Lucia honeymoons are the perfect excuse for taking to the tree-tops. Gondolas are available to ride over the rainforest canopies, giving you a bird’s eye view of the giant trees, vines and flowers that inhabit the dense forest. You can begin your jungle tree-top adventure by heading to Rodney Heights, Gros Islet. Bus transfers are available to the docking station from most of the island’s most popular hotel areas. For those who want to add something really special to their trip, the company operating the Aerial Tram also offer night-time zip-line excursions.

Ross Stevenson is the General Manager of Cap Maison. With a reputation as the foremost luxury hotel on St Lucia, they provide a wide selection of services for St Lucia honeymoons and options for couples who want to enjoy a blissful Caribbean experience.

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1. La Sagrada Familia

Work began on La Sagrada Familia in April 1882, and it still remains unfinished. But the last of Gaudi’s great projects is still the most striking building in the city, and one can only imagine how beautiful it will be when it is finished. Gaudi worked on the cathedral for the last 12 years of his life until he died in 1926, and it is hoped that it will be finished some time in the next two decades. Make sure you take a tour to see the interior and enjoy the full experience when on a study tour of Barcelona.

2. Palau Güell

The next Gaudi item on the list is this grand mansion which the famous architect built for Eusebi Güell. It is an impressive building, and now that restoration works have been completed you can see it in its full glory. In 1984 it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. Torre Agbar

At 38 storeys high, this building is one of the most noticeable in Barcelona. It was designed by architect Jean Nouvel for the Agbar Group, and is taken up mainly with offices. It is a fairly recent addition to the city after being opened in June 2005, where the King of Spain was invited to do the honours. You’ll find it located in the Poblenou area of the city.

4. Casa Milá

This is the last Gaudi building on the list, but there are plenty more of his creations to visit if you get the time whilst on a study tour in Barcelona. It is a very recognisable building because it is so unconventional. There are no straight lines to speak of, and the surreal chimneys on the roof are one of the highlights, so make sure you don’t miss out on this one.

5. Montjuic Communications Tower

This startling creation was completed in 1992 in time for the Olympic Games, and represents an athlete holding the Olympic Flame. It almost looks like a sculpture rather than a building, and is one of the most striking designs in the city. The architect was Santiago Calatrava, and although it divides opinion it should definitely be on your itinerary.

Explore the Wonderful Architecture of Barcelona

Barcelona is a fascinating city for many reasons, but the architecture on display here makes it the ideal destination for study tour focusing on art and design.

Simon Prendergast works for FHT, a company specialising in flexible and inspiring study tour options across a wide range of subjects. FHT’s study tours benefit from over 40 years of experience arranging accommodation, educational itineraries, and everything leaders need to plan a successful trip.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Saint Lucia Jazz

The Jazz Festival has grown since its inauguration to become one of the top spring highlights. This year’s edition will be the 21st instalment of the event and it promises to be bigger and better than ever. The festival was originally conceived as a marketing strategy to drum up interest in the island during the fallow spring months, but the choice of music and the vibrant atmosphere created a runaway success that is still going strong two decades on. Indeed, it has grown to become the perfect entertainment for those on St Lucia honeymoons during late spring.

The 2012 Edition

The Festival’s 21st birthday is just about to kick off, so if you’re bolting for the Caribbean just after your big day and you’ll be staying on the island between April 30th and May 13th then you’ll be able to join in the birthday celebrations. Lionel Richie has been announced as this year’s big headliner and, while he might not be considered jazz by aficionados, there will be plenty of other performers to sate their need for the genre.

Other treats for those indulging while on their St Lucia honeymoons include a wide range of local, regional and international stars performing many different kinds of music. The American jazz saxophonist and composer Joshua Redman brings high-end jazz to the festival, and the French rumba flamenca band the Gypsy Kings are also on the bill, alongside Ziggy Marley, the eldest son of Bob Marley. Other performers include the South African trumpeter, flugelhornist, cornetist and composer Hugh Masekela. Local talent includes Luther Francois, Richard Payne, Teddyson John, Derek Yarde and Ronald ‘Boo’ Hinkson. Other performers from nearby include the Trinidadian soca stars Fay Ann Lyons and Bunji Garlin.

Ross Stevenson is the General Manager of Cap Maison. With a reputation as the foremost luxury hotel on St Lucia, they provide a wide selection of services for St Lucia honeymoons and options for couples who want to enjoy a blissful Caribbean experience.

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Shakespeare and Company

In the heart of Paris, in St. Julien le Pauvre by the left bank of the River Seine is a now world-famous bookshop. Shakespeare and Company opened after the Second World War and is the spiritual successor to a bookshop by the same name which was closed down during the Nazi occupation of France. The original shop was frequented by authors and poets such as Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ezra Pound and James Joyce. Notably, in 1922 the shop went on to publish the latter’s modernist masterpiece, Ulysses, which had previously been banned in the United States and the United Kingdom for being too pornographic. The existing, second store is a great place to visit on a study tour as it captures the true spirit of the ground-breaking original bookstore. It is overflowing with books, has quaint nooks and crannies, and abounds with frantic literary discussions, making it a place to really stimulate the student imagination.

The Latin Quarter

In the 5th and 6th arrondissements of Paris is the lively Latin Quarter – again, a fantastic place for those on a study tour to sample the authentic day-to-day life and romantic bustle of the French capital city. In the early stages of the twentieth century, it was the hang-out of revered writers such as Joyce, when he was poor and hungry and in the formative era of his career. One such café he used to visit was the Cafe Polidor which, with its quaint old wooden front, still stands at 41 Rue Monsieur le Prince near the Ecole de Medecine. He also stayed a few times in the cheap Hotel Corneille, off the 4 Rue des Moulins, which today is still very much the same as it was to the popular Irish author. The Latin Quarter also features heavily in Hemingway’s posthumously published Parisian memoirs, A Moveable Feast. This book is definitely essential reading for anyone considering taking a study tour to Paris.

Simon Prendergast works for FHT, a company specialising in flexible and inspiring study tour options across a wide range of subjects. FHT’s study tours benefit from over 40 years of experience arranging accommodation, educational itineraries, and everything leaders need to plan a successful trip.

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In fact, if there is one thing the country is known for, it is its festivals. Any portrayal of China in the media is not complete without at least one shot of a waving paper dragon or lantern festival, and with good reason, as these festivities tend to be the highlights of the Chinese cultural year. The mere scope and variety of festivals on offer inspires many Westerners to take China holidays, and justifiably so, as each of these celebrations is a stunning spectacle well worth witnessing first-hand. Below are only a few of the many festivals on offer during the Chinese year.

The Chinese New Year

Those booking China holidays should aim to be in the country in late January, in time to witness perhaps the most visually impactful of all Chinese festivals, the incomparable Chinese New Year.

Considered a public holiday, and stretching out over 15 days – from the first day of the first Chinese month to the lantern festival on the 15th day – the New Year festival is the most important celebration in Chinese culture, and responsible for the depiction of the country’s festivals in the media. It is from here that the paper dragons and fireworks stem, as well as other Chinese icons such as “lucky money”.

But much like the Western New Year, this is mostly a time for Chinese nationals to be with their families and friends, sharing meals and reinforcing personal ties. Which is not to say, of course, that the street celebrations are not worth booking China holidays to see!

The Dragon Boat Festival

If the Chinese New Year is the main argument for taking China holidays in the Winter, the Dragon Boat festival is certainly its counterpart for the summer!

Taking place on the fifth day of the fifth month of the Chinese lunar calendar (usually towards the end of June), this celebration is marked by a number of rituals, most relating to the consumption of traditional food such as rice dumplings. But the main attraction is, of course, the boat race itself, which pits the eponymous traditional vessels against one another in a demonstration of skill that attracts thousands of locals to the riverbanks. And while most of the traditional customs are no longer observed outside of the rural areas, the festival itself continues to maintain its importance, being featured in the UNESCO World Non-Material Cultural Heritage List.

Like the New Year, this festival is also a public holiday, although only since 2008.

The Mid-Autumn Festival

Celebrated on the fifteenth day of the eighth lunisolar month (around September or October in the Western calendar), the mid-autumn festival is the last of the great Chinese festivals and, much like the New Year and the Dragon Boat festival, will certainly delight anyone taking China holidays in the period when it is held.

While this is a less public and more family-oriented festival than its counterparts, foreigners will no doubt find it charming that Chinese families all throughout the country sit together to admire the moon, build paper lanterns, and eat traditional “mooncakes” – and have been doing so for nearly 3.000 years. Like the other two festivals mentioned, this is a highlight of the Chinese calendar, and each of the ethnic minorities in the country has its own way of celebrating it.

All in all, while not as flashy or vibrant as the other traditional Chinese festivals, the mid-autumn festival complements them nicely, fully justifying a visit to the culturally rich Asian country.

It is clear, then, that the wide variety of Chinese festivals is, in and of itself, a sufficient argument to justify the booking of China holidays; whatever the time of the year, there is always a celebration to marvel at and take part in!

Fuyaun is one of the holiday experts from China holidays , who provide the best holidays in China, whether you are new to the great country or seasoned traveller.

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Music and Stage

The city offers lovers of music and stage over 50 theatres to visit on a study tour. One of the most famous is the Deutsches Theater which was built between 1849 and 1850. Apart from a one year closure due to the war, it has operated continuously since then. Other theatres include the Volksbuhne, the Berliner Ensemble and the Schaubuhne. The city is also home to three world-renowned opera houses: the Deutsche Oper, the Berlin State Opera and the Komische. For lovers of classical music, the Berliner Philharmonie, close to Potsdamer Platz, is the home of the world-famous Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra.

Green Spaces

Those with large groups on a study tour might well want to explore some of the city’s open spaces. The city’s largest park is the Tiergarten, which was designed by the famous Prussian gardener and landscape architect, Peter Joseph Lenné. If you’re looking for a park that offers an impressive view, head to the Viktoriapark in Kreuzberg where you can take in incredible panoramas of the southern part of the city centre. The oldest park in the city is the Volkspark in Friedrichshain, which dates back to 1848.

Museum Island

An important destination during any study tour to the city, Berlin’s Museum Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located on Spree Island. It is home to the Altes Museum, the Neues Museum, the Alte Nationalgalerie, the Pergamon Museum and the Bode Museum. Taken together, these buildings and their collections form an incredible array of artefacts and exhibitions that are guaranteed to inspire and educate students. Architecturally, the museums represent a fine example of some of Imperial Germany’s grandest and most impressive buildings.

Simon Prendergast works for FHT, a company specialising in flexible and inspiring study tour options across a wide range of subjects. FHT’s study tours benefit from over 40 years of experience arranging accommodation, educational itineraries, and everything leaders need to plan a successful trip.

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The Keyhole
While it’s not exactly a secret, the famous ‘keyhole’ fits the theme of secrecy. Curiously, one of the most intriguing sights in the whole of Rome is to be found by putting your eye up to a keyhole! If you take a trip to the top of the Aventine to visit the early Christian churches that occupy the top of the hill, make a point of stopping off at the Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta. Here, visitors are encouraged to approach the large wooden door of the Priory to spy through the keyhole and enjoy one of the most surprising sights to be found on any study tour. Although text can’t do justice to it, the view reveals a long chamber of trees covering a gravel path, focusing the viewers’ gaze on the dome of St Peter’s in the distance.

Porta Portese
This is one of the original city gates, built in 1644 as part of Pope Urban VIII’s Janiculum Walls. If you happen to find yourself around the Porta Portese on a Sunday, then you’ll be in the perfect place to enjoy one of the city’s most popular flea markets. The market kicks off in the early morning but runs through until the afternoon. If your group are on the lookout for trinkets and idiosyncratic souvenirs, this is the best spot in the city for browsing watches, books, pottery and jewellery, and it also makes an excellent location for a spot of people-watching.

EUR
One of the more modern sites of interest for those heading to the Eternal city on an architectural study tour, the EUR is a far cry from the Coliseum and the Renaissance churches. The Esposizione Universale Roma was a projected new neighbourhood that was to reflect many references to the glory of Rome’s past. The area was intended by Mussolini to be the site of the 1942 World’s Fair, but the Second World War put paid to the plans. The buildings that remain today have become an important part of the commercial and residential landscape of the city, and are some of the finest examples of Fascist architecture that remain standing.

Simon Prendergast works for FHT, a company specialising in flexible and inspiring study tour options across a wide range of subjects. FHT’s study tours benefit from over 40 years of experience arranging accommodation, educational itineraries, and everything leaders need to plan a successful trip.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Iceland is a country that is both geologically and volcanically active, and, as such, it is a great place to learn about the different geological areas and concerns. Its capital city of Reykjavík is a great place to begin school trips around the country that will showcase the various elements of Icelandic geography – such as the Great Geysir, the Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Thingvellir National Park.

Great Geysir, Blue Lagoon — Research shows that the Great Geysir, in Haukadalur Valley on the slopes of Laugarfjall Hill, has been active for around 10,000 years. If students are lucky, school trips that include Geysir on the itinerary will result in them getting to see the massive water flow explode upwards into the sky. Over the years, Geysir has been recorded to erupt up to a height of 170 metres (recorded in 1845). Conversely, it has also stopped erupting for years at a time too. The frequency and power with which Geysir erupts is directly related to the seismic activity below the ground, but if the Great Geysir doesn’t erupt while you are visiting, you can see the nearby Stokker Geysir erupt up to heights of 30 metres every few minutes.

Gullfoss Waterfall — The Gullfoss Waterfall is one of the visited natural attractions in Iceland – and one of the most visually stunning. It is located in the valley of the Hvítá River in the southwest of the country, and school trips to see the waterfall will be rewarded with splendid views and a roar of rushing water. It has its origin in the glacier lake Hvítávatn, and it flows down a three-step staircase of rocks before plunging down two more steps into a 32-metre ravine, giving the illusion that the water disappears into the earth. The waterfall gets its golden colour due to the amount of sediment that is carried in the glacial waters, and it often shines, burnished, in the sunlight.

Thingvellir National Park — Not only is Thingvellir National Park notable for its dramatic landscapes, but it has a rich history that dates back to around 930 A.D. The Althing was an open-air assembly held in the park, representing the whole of Iceland. It began in 930 A.D. and continued for two weeks every year until 1798. In 2004 the park and the remnants of the Althing were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. School trips to the park will take you to see the areas of continental drift between the Eurasian and North American Teutonic Plates, which collide and manifest in the cracks and faults that perforate the area. Some of these are filled with amazingly clear water where visitors toss coins for good luck.

Angela Bowden works for STS (School Travel Service), the UK’s largest educational travel company, providing school trips for secondary schools, primary schools and colleges. School trips with STS can encompass art/design, foreign languages, history, science/nature, geography and more, to worldwide destinations.

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The Anne Frank House — Located in the heart of Amsterdam, Anne Frank’s House is a great place for students on school trips to learn a bit about the history of this fascinating and important individual. Before World War II, the Frank family moved to Amsterdam, but when war broke out and the Netherlands was occupied by Germany the Franks were subject to the restrictions and eventual arrest and persecution of the Jewish people during that time. Anne’s famous diary chronicles her life during the war and her life in the concentration camps before she passed away of typhus in August of 1944. The house and museum are located at Prinsengracht 263-267.

Kamp Amersfoort — Tucked away slightly inland is the Nazi concentration camp of Amersfoort, whose official name was ‘Polizeiliches Durchgangslager Amersfoor.’ School trips to this area of the Dutch coast will take students to a place where over 35,000 people were detained and forced to work during the Second World War. The history of the camp can be broken up into two periods, the first of which, from 1941-1943, mostly saw it used as a transport camp. There were about 8,000 prisoners held here before the camp was closed for enlargement. During the years of 1943-1945, there were over 26,000 prisoners here, most of which were transferred to camps such as Auschwitz before the camp was turned over to the Red Cross in 1945.

The Jewish Historical Museum — After visiting the home of Anne Frank and seeing the remains of the Kamp Amersfoort, a visit to the Jewish Historical Museum at Nieuwe Amstelstraat 1, Amsterdam is a good way to round out the historical experience of your school trips. The museum is the only one in the Netherlands dedicated to Jewish history, culture, and religion. It is housed in a complex made up of four former Ashkenazi synagogues. The permanent exhibition deals strongly with themes of religion in tradition and modernity, Jewish ties with Israel, and the persecution of the Jews during the Second World War. Changing exhibits always connect to Judaism and are interesting and informative and this is a venue well worth experiencing.

Angela Bowden works for STS (School Travel Service), the UK’s largest educational travel company, providing school trips for secondary schools, primary schools and colleges. School trips with STS can encompass art/design, foreign languages, history, science/nature, geography and more, to worldwide destinations.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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School trips to Marrakech will teach eager students how this once imperial city sits at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, which is the highest mountain range in North Africa, and has a variety of flora and fauna that are indigenous to the area. While you are in the city, you can experience a huge range of history and culture and should take the time to explore the Ali Ben Youssef Mosque and the Medina of Marrakech. To relax, head to the Majorelle Garden to see some of the city’s plant life.

Ali Ben Youssef Mosque — School trips to Marrakech will undoubtedly include a visit to the Ali Ben Youssef Mosque, which is the oldest mosque in the city. It was built in the 12th century, by the Almoravid Sultan Ali inb Yusuf (who ruled from 1106-1142 and expanded the city greatly), and over the subsequent centuries has been rebuilt and re-structured several times. The surviving mosque is a highlight of the Merenid style of architecture, which was brought over by the Spaniards and represents quintessential Moroccan architectural style. The Ali Ben Youssef Mosque is attached to the Ben Youssef Madrasa, which was an Islamic college that was founded during the 14th century and closed in 1960. In 1982, the site was reopened to the public as an historical site.

Medina of Marrakech — Generally known as the old, historic centre of the city, the Medina of Marrakech is an area that must not be missed by students on school trips to the city. In 1895 the Medina was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site for ‘Outstanding Universal Value’, which can be seen in the vast array of architecture, monuments, and residential buildings that date from the period of the city’s founding. While in the Medina, be sure to see the Koutoubia Mosque – which is an important icon of Muslim architecture – the Kasbah, the ramparts, gates, Badiâ Palace, and the les Saâdians tomb, before you leave the Old City. Later, in the evening, stroll around the old city and soak in the atmosphere of Moroccan nightlife, and experience part of the culture of the city which has persevered throughout the centuries.

Marjorelle Garden — Designed by Frenchman Jacques Marjorelle during the 1920s and 30s, the 12-acre botanical garden located to the west of the city is a perfect place to spend an afternoon on your school trips to Marrakech. The garden has been open to the public since 1947, and since 1980 it has been owned by Yves St Laurent and Pierre Bergé. In addition to housing the Islamic Art Museum of Marrakech, the Marjorelle Garden is home to 15 species of birds that are endemic to North Africa, which you may get the chance to see while visiting the gardens.

Angela Bowden works for STS (School Travel Service), the UK’s largest educational travel company, providing school trips for secondary schools, primary schools and colleges. School trips with STS can encompass art/design, foreign languages, history, science/nature, geography and more, to worldwide destinations.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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1. The National Gallery

Located in Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery is one of the most important galleries in the whole of the UK. It was founded in 1824, and since then has built up a collection of over 2,300 paintings. This may not be the largest collection in Europe, but it is certainly one of the most impressive. The works of art in the National Gallery date back to the 13th century and are made up mainly of private donations. You will find works here from Leonardo da Vinci, Constable, Turner, Van Gogh and many more of the most famous artists of all time. The museum is free to enter, but there is a charge for special exhibitions so students going on a study tour to London should research what is on before they arrive. There are audio guides available that will help students to appreciate the art they encounter.

2. Tate Britain

Tate Britain is the main gallery in the Tate group, and it is dedicated solely to art from Britain. Here you will find a huge range of art, including paintings by some of the best ever British artists such as Constable, Turner and Blake. The gallery is located on Millbank, so it is easy to find and you can happily spend a whole day strolling around the collection.

3. Tate Modern

Tate Modern is the national gallery of modern art in Britain, and is the most visited gallery of modern art in the world – with nearly five million people visiting each year. It is housed in Bankside Power Station, which was closed in 1981, and it houses art from 1900 to the present day. The Turbine Hall is the huge area of space which is used to display large special commissions. It is five stories high and some of the works of art here are very impressive. You will also be able to find artworks by Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso, Marcel Duchamp and many more famous names, making it an ideal place for students of art to visit on a study tour to London.

4. The V&A

The V&A is a museum dedicated to art and design, and is one of the highlights of any trip to London. The collection of artwork on display here is fantastic, with the Raphael Cartoons being one of the highlights. But aside from art there are also sculptures, ceramics, textiles and more.

Anyone travelling on a study tour to London should try to make the effort to see at least a few of the great art galleries in this city. There are so many to choose from, but the above four make a good place to start.

Simon Prendergast works for FHT, a company specialising in flexible and inspiring study tour options across a wide range of subjects. FHT’s study tours benefit from over 40 years of experience arranging accommodation, educational itineraries, and everything leaders need to plan a successful trip.

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1. St Paul’s Cathedral

Built in the 17th century, by Sir Christopher Wren, St Paul’s Cathedral is one of the main symbols of London and one of the most recognisable buildings in the UK. The foundation stone was laid in 1675, and since its completion the cathedral has stood tall over London and given hope to the people – especially during World War II, which it remarkably survived intact.
A cathedral was previously located in the place where it was built, but this was destroyed in the Great Fire of London. When visiting on a study tour, students should try to climb up to the Golden Gallery to enjoy a great view over London. Another highlight is the Whispering Gallery at the base of the dome, where you can whisper against one surface and someone else can hear what you are saying on the other side.

2. The Tower of London

The Tower of London is one of the most famous buildings in London’s history. It was built by William the Conquerer following his successful invasion, and has been used as a prison, fortress, Royal Mint and, most infamously, as a place of executions. See the famous Beefeaters, explore the White Tower which was used for executions, including that of Anne Boleyn, and of course don’t miss taking a peek at the Crown Jewels. Also make sure you don’t miss the famous ravens – legend has it that if they ever leave the Tower disaster will befall the nation. All it all, it is a fantastic attraction to visit on a study tour to London.

3. Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is the official home of the Queen, and has been the official residence of the ruling monarch since Queen Victoria moved into it in 1837. When the Queen is present, the Royal Standard flies high over the top of the palace, so keep a look out for it. Also, try to catch the Changing of the Guard, which is one of the most famous rituals carried out in London.

4. Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey was the building in which William the Conquerer was crowned king, and it has been used for coronations ever since. It is a beautiful building in itself, and it is well worth taking a tour of the interior during a study tour to London. Inside you will find the burial places of some of Britain’s most famous citizens, including Charles Dickens, Sir Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin – amongst others. One of the most poignant features is the grave of the Unknown Warrior – a British soldier whose identity remains a mystery – who was buried here in 1920.

Simon Prendergast works for FHT, a company specialising in flexible and inspiring study tour options across a wide range of subjects. FHT’s study tours benefit from over 40 years of experience arranging accommodation, educational itineraries, and everything leaders need to plan a successful trip.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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If you head to Amsterdam, Paris or London here are three of the top museums in Europe you may want to check out while on a study tour.

Anne Frank House

Anne Frank House is a fascinating, if haunting, museum that you will be able to visit during your trip to Amsterdam. You are probably familiar with the famous diary written by Anne Frank, and if you found it as powerful as many people then you will find yourself even more affected when you visit. You can see for yourself the place in which she hid – along with her family and another family – whilst escaping persecution from the Nazis. The space in which they lived has to be seen to be believed and, with its tiny size, it is incredible to imagine how anyone could possibly have survived for so long in such conditions. Also at Anne Frank House, you will be able to find out more about the life of the author and the situation in which she lived, through an interesting exhibition.

The Louvre

The Louvre is one of the best known and loved museums in the world and is a must on the itinerary of a study tour to Paris. You will be dazzled by the sheer number of priceless treasures on display, and you can easily spend several days exploring it. Many people associate the Louvre with the Mona Lisa, Leonardo da Vinci’s famous portrait, but the area around the painting is constantly full of people so that it is actually quite hard to see. However, if you want to see some of the other treasures, then check out the Venus de Milo – perhaps the most famous statue in the world – amongst many other things.

The British Museum

Britain’s top museum is a national treasure and you should definitely put some time aside to explore it whilst on a study tour in London. There are countless treasures packed into this vast museum, and the exhibitions comprise eight million works. The Elgin Marbles are the highlight for many, although this is probably due to the controversy surrounding them and the opinion of many people that they rightfully belong in Greece. There is so much here to discover that you have very little hope of seeing everything in one day – or even two!

Explore the Best Museums in Europe

The three museums above are some of the best that Europe has to offer, so if you are going to arrange a study tour to Amsterdam, Paris or London then make sure these museums are on your itinerary.

Simon Prendergast works for FHT, a company specialising in flexible and inspiring study tour options across a wide range of subjects. FHT’s study tours benefit from over 40 years of experience arranging accommodation, educational itineraries, and everything leaders need to plan a successful trip.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Their stunts became as legendary as the movies’ habitual black wardrobes. They were the stunt doubles who worked with the productions’ coordinators, and specialized in martial arts with years of physical training and mental determination.

So just how do people get involved in the stunt action industry? On the east coast, martial arts centres offer a plethora of courses from taekwondo to karate. Woodbridge is just one area where a range of martial arts can set future Jackie Chans on their path to Stuntville.

Aim High

Stunt actors learn a broad range of combat fighting to land themselves parts in movies. Mr Stunt Man himself, Bruce Lee, developed his own combat system, Jeet Kune Do (JKD), which has since been the martial art of choice for many action doubles, often ranking above karate. Woodbridge has seen many students of Bruce Lee’s philosophy progress to black belts and demonstrate action movie ability.

Show Yourself

There’ll be no “Lights! Camera! Action!” for your first showreel, just a simple camcorder, your buddy and your opponent. The showreel could be taken during a training session or be a montage of sequences, but preferably no more than one minute in total. It’s the first 15 seconds that will get the stunt co-ordinator’s attention. To optimize your chances, opt for a mix of techniques on the DVD, perhaps JKD, Brazilian juu jitsu and karate. Woodbridge academies have been featured in their students’ showreels in the past which have wound up on directors’ desks.

Hang Tough

Stunt men and women are masters of perseverance, something which comes naturally after being trained in any discipline of martial art. You’re unlikely to be noticed after the first DVD you send out, maybe not even your 100th, but keep doing it. Don’t keep the same tape for years, it gets old, you develop and therefore your techniques progress: show that ability on the showreel.

Start Young

Starting young is the best time to learn to become a potential stunt person. From taekwando to karate, Woodbridge in Virginia offers children, and adults, the chance to act out the scene as their favourite martial art hero.

Join SAG

Become a member of the Screen Actor’s Guild (SAG) or AFTRA. It’s a tricky route to join as you need to be one of SAG’s productions to get certified, but one solution is to get a part as an extra. It may feel like a distant goal when you’re in a training class for karate in Woodbridge but it’s something you should consider.

f you’re looking to learn Martial Arts, Pat Tray is chief instructor at the Trident Academy of Mixed Martial Arts. It is the premier training and instruction centre for martial arts, including karate, Woodbridge and surrounds. The Trident Academy is a perfect base to study Jeet Kune Do, Filipino Martial Arts, Combat Submission Wrestling and Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu, bringing together the best martial arts instructors from across the NOVA and DC area.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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An activity that will encourage self discipline, respect and focus would be a Godsend.
There is one option: enroling them in a martial arts class.

From jiu jitsu to karate, Woodbridge, Virginia has a an abundance of martial arts which will help your children to stay fit, be part of a community and look up to figures of authority.

What are Martial Arts?
• A variety of combat techniques that promote self defense, and increase self confidence and focus.
• They come from all corners of the globe: Asia, South America and the West.
• Experts take years, sometimes a lifetime, to become masters of martial arts, which means that children are taught by the most experienced teachers.

Should My Child Study Martial Arts?
• Children learn very quickly that martial arts involve a tremendous amount of discipline. It can be a good idea to get your kids involved if they are struggling to listen to authority.
• If they have problems focusing or have excess energy, martial arts will encourage more focus at school. With classes like karate, Woodbridge academies have helped kids tune their focus.
• Girls learning martial arts are on the increase. Giving young girls the chance to feel secure and to be on the same physical level and boys is a great confidence booster, especially with karate. Woodbridge has seen numerous girls progress to black belts and become self confident, young women.
• Children who aren’t good at team sports may well enjoy martial arts. These arts encourage a sense of individuality in an encouraging manner.

What Will They Gain?
• Respect for themselves, their peers and their master
• Increased focus
• A positive attitude
• Self defense techniques
• Self confidence
• Healthy eating
• Discipline
• Leadership
• A sense of community
• Responsibility for their actions
• Mental agility
• How to accept and give constructive criticism

Over a range of disciplines, including Brazilian jiu-jitsu and karate, Woodbridge centers offer a variety of courses.

Martial Arts Myth Buster
• They promote fights. No. In reality, martial arts actually discourage physical combat outside the training room and instead promote self discipline, respect and self defense techniques. All martial arts do this, including Brazilian jiu jitsu and karate. Woodbridge centers encourage children to know exactly when to step down from confrontation.
• Girls will become tomboys. Not necessarily. Martial arts will give them a sense of security but won’t encourage them to flaunt their skills. Many girls prefer to hide their ability and continue to be ‘girly’.

If you’re looking to learn Martial Arts, Pat Tray is chief instructor at the Trident Academy of Mixed Martial Arts. It is the premier training and instruction centre for martial arts, including karate, Woodbridge and surrounds. The Trident Academy is a perfect base to study Jeet Kune Do, Filipino Martial Arts, Combat Submission Wrestling and Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu, bringing together the best martial arts instructors from across the NOVA and DC area.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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For those who prefer to have their adventure holidays in Croatia on land, the amazing mountain ranges and national parks offer a very different kind of break. Hiking, climbing, cycling and losing yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of nature can be an exhilarating experience in this spectacular country.

Plitvicka Jezera National Park

One of the most popular destinations for nature lovers on adventure holidays in Croatia, this exquisite destination, with its amazing lakes and waterfalls, is arguably the premier park in a country with eight national parks and ten nature parks. The Big Waterfall, also known as the Veliki Slap, is a remarkable work of natural art. Climb the stairs to the top and experience the breathtaking effect of the rushing, tumbling waters. Right below it are a pool of lakes, as well as Sastavci – a waterfall fan that continues the spectacle, culminating in some amazingly-coloured waters. With 16 lakes resting upon on limestone and travertine, this UNESCO World Heritage site – home to 40 endemic plant species, 321 species of butterflies, and over 50 species of mammals – is definitely something not to be missed!

Mljet National Park

A favourite among cyclists on adventure holidays in Croatia, this is one of those idyllic places that rather takes on the personality of whatever its visitors are looking for. To those who are looking for interesting terrain to hike or bike, Mljet presents an easy adventure trail; while to those who are looking for a bit of respite from hectic sightseeing, this can be quite a peaceful stopover. Mysterious caverns surrounded by lush forests, a crystalline lake with myriad shades of blue, rich flora and fauna, and said to be the place where Odysseus spent seven years with the nymph Calypso – this is truly a magical place.

Hvar
The island of Hvar, said to have more sunshine than any other island in the country, is the longest of Croatia’s thousand islands. With Stari Grad Plain considered to be the best-preserved ancient landscape, the grape and olive-rich terrain offers a peek into how it was in olden times – with hardly anything having changed except, of course, for the modern conveniences. A short ferry trip from Split will deliver you to this fascinating island so you can enjoy its lush plains, amazing view of the ocean and ancient, history-laden stone walls.

With all those islands, there is definitely no lack of things to do – from the easy to the exciting – when embarking on adventure holidays in Croatia. It more than lives up to its mantra – “The Mediterranean As It Once Was.”

Naomi Wilson is the Product Development Manager for Activity Breaks, who offer exciting weekend breaks & activity holidays. If you’re looking for adventure holidays in Croatia , Activity Breaks specialise in flexible adventure holidays in Croatia and other fantastic holidays across Europe.

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With its mild Mediterranean climate, incredible coastline, spectacular islands, amazing mountainous ranges, scenic national parks, as well as charming cities and towns awash with history and culture – adventure holidays in Croatia are never boring! Whether you’re just off on a weekend break or planning on a longer visit, you’ll definitely find many exciting things to do. Here are just a few of the amazing activities you can enjoy.

Walking the Walls Of Dubrovnic

This marvelous city, popularly referred to as the Pearl of the Adriatic, is considered such a gem that it has been named a UNESCO heritage site. What could be more inspiring than walking the high city walls built to protect it from its enemies, losing yourself in the history while being amazed by spectacular views on all sides? To the south are the electric blue waters of the Adriatic, while the north presents charming views of romantic, red-roofed cottages with quaint balconies. A walk on the walls is definitely a great way to warm up your adventure holidays in Croatia! Make sure you have comfortable walking shoes, however, as the walls are two kilometres in total.

Island Hopping Off the Dalmatian Coast

With over 1000 spectacular islands off the coast of Croatia, there are a great number of beaches (from family-friendly to nude) to explore, whether for picnics or just lounging around sunbathing. There are also ample opportunities for more strenuous activities like diving, snorkeling, sailing and more. Spend an extra day and you can enjoy adventure trails that snake throughout the area doing some hiking and climbing as well. It’s the perfect spot for adding the adventure into your adventure holidays. In Croatia, there’s always something new to discover around every corner.

Mountain Biking/Cycling

For those whose interests run to the two-wheeled kind, adventure holidays in Croatia offer a great many opportunities for bike riding on spectacular trails and paths. One of the favourite biking spots is Mljet National Park. This park sits in the midst of a lush, green setting where one can enjoy the unspoilt beauty of nature, complete with dense forests and two interconnected saltwater lakes. And that’s just one location; there are countless more in the different islands, towns and mountains, especially in Istria where many tour specialists offer intensive mountain biking tours.

Those, of course, are only three of the many possibilities for adventure holidays in Croatia, and just a taste of the bigger and better list of activities available in this delightful holiday destination. Discover the magic of a short haul adventure tour in this magical land – and find yourself coming back for more.

Naomi Wilson is the Product Development Manager for Activity Breaks, who offer exciting weekend breaks & activity holidays. If you’re looking for adventure holidays in Croatia , Activity Breaks specialise in flexible adventure holidays in Croatia and other fantastic holidays across Europe.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Le Farcon

Le Farcon is renowned for offering up a menu infused with incredible flavour. For a sampling of dishes, check out the amazing tasting menu. This will serve you up a selection of small portions with delightful flavours that will leave you wanting more. Some of the standouts are a cream sauce with local fresh water fish, scrambled eggs with king prawns, and lamb medallions with creamed carrots. This fabulous authentic French food may be a bit more expensive than some of the other options – but for a real treat it is totally worth it.

Le Bouc Blanc

This restaurant has such excellent food and views that it makes it worth leaving the warmth of your cosy chalet. La Tania locals frequent this restaurant for lunch in the winter as the sunny terrace makes for an ideal way to enjoy the beautiful scenery. The menu is fantastic and the daily specials are designed to impress. One of the most delicious temptations that you will find here are the Dauphinoise potatoes and, if you’re after something light and tasty, but nonetheless hearty, consider one of their special omelets.

Le Ferme

Le Ferme is a great place to try fondue – and let’s face it, everyone has to try fondue at some point on their ski trip! But that’s not all there is to choose from on the luscious menu of this trendy eatery. If you like your portions big and enjoy food that is truly good value, then this is the place for you. The prices for wines are also very reasonable if you fancy sharing a bottle over dinner.

Pub Le Ski Lodge

This is the most popular place in La Tania – and for good reason. The food is well priced and of excellent quality, with all the crowd favorites and more. You will find specialty burgers, steaks, pasta, ribs, chili, and vegetarian dishes. There are daily specials (always great) and the delicious, hearty hot soup is hard to beat after a hard day on the slopes before heading back to your chalet. La Tania locals and tourists alike flock here to enjoy the great food and the warm, vibrant ambience of Pub Le Ski Lodge, for lunch, dinner, or just drinks.

Even if you plan on cooking a lot of your own meals in your chalet, La Tania has many excellent restaurants you can enjoy when you feel like a change, or for a special occasion.

Danielle Hodges is the Marketing Manager for Ski Amis, a specialist ski travel agency and booking service offering bonded holidays staying in a catered or self-catered chalet, La Tania and other fantastic destinations. For a luxury or good-value skiing holiday in the best chalet, La Tania is an ideal location.

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Odd praise

This can manifest itself in a variety of ways: the extraordinary looks of admiration, as you pick up that parcel everyone else seemed reluctant to touch; mutterings of “now that’s what I call courage”, as you walk out of reception with the package under your arm; implausibly firm handshakes, pats on the shoulder and “good luck bud” as you leave. Always, always double check exactly what it is you are carrying.

Strange questions

This is an interesting category and one that is a sure warning sign if you’re engaged in courier jobs and are just collecting a package. “Have you had all your shots?” “Do you get good medical benefits?” “How fast could you really drive in an emergency?” “Do you have dependants?” “You sure you know what you’re taking on here?” “By the way, what are your views on the occult?”.

Any of these might just give you pause for thought in terms of whether or not this is likely to be a happy trip! Ensure the credentials of who you are carrying for before you load up.

Worrying precedents

These things usually come out in conversation with reception workers while you’re waiting for the client to bring down the package. “Of course, the guy who used to do our courier jobs, well, no, I’d better say no more.” “I don’t think we’ve ever seen a delivery guy more than once.” “Of course, nobody could have foreseen that the parcels would react like that if shaken too much.” “They always used to bring the parcels down to reception wearing full safety equipment but they stopped as it was bad PR.”

Again, it is always prudent (and essential) to know what you are carrying.

Scary bon-voyages

These are really great and are usually the very last thing said directly to you as you depart.

“Try not to judge the guys at the other end based upon your first impression.” “When you get there, remember that it’s about live and let live.” “They’re a great bunch but try not to look them directly in the eye.” “Oh yes, you may want to consider getting a medical check-up soon.” “Thanks again for going out on a limb for us like this.” “If I don’t see you again, it’s been nice meeting you”.

Always check the validity of the address you are delivering on courier jobs and always let your dispatcher (or someone else) know your whereabouts at all times.

Of course, the above has been a little flippant and designed to make you laugh, but the points we are referring to are all valid ones – so, take care on the road and happy and safe travels.

Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Courier Exchange, the world’s largest neutral trading hub for same day courier jobs in the express freight exchange industry. Over 2,500 transport exchange businesses are networked together through their website, trading jobs and capacity in a safe ‘wholesale’ environment.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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“They won’t take anything that’s heavy”

That makes them sound lazy and/or rule-bound! In fact, unless they’ve got bad backs, a good delivery driver will normally try and take whatever you have to move – provided you’ve booked it appropriately in advance of course. More than one delivery guy has arrived on a motorcycle to pick up that urgent ‘package’, only to find that it weighs half a ton. The lesson is communication.

“They’re always getting lost”

Surprisingly, a typical requirement when applying for average courier jobs is that applicants can read a map or use a SATNAV. As a result, they don’t get lost – well, not often anyhow and even if they do, they can usually right themselves before long. What is a little more common is that they have to spend inordinate amounts of time driving around in circles, trying to find delivery addresses that don’t actually exist – due to errors on the consignment note.

“You’ll never get them to sign for anything”

Yes, you will – providing what you’re asking them to sign is some form of standard dispatch note or similar. What they sometimes get a little sensitive about is when asked to sign that they have collected something they can’t see (it’s inside a sealed box), that is in perfect condition and that if it isn’t upon arrival, that they will sell their house, worldly goods and family, in order to compensate the sender! Again, commonsense and communication must prevail!

“They’re the last true cowboys of the open road”

This is an interesting one and might have been broadly true – prior to the mass availability of the cell phone. Today, people working in courier jobs typically work to a tight and professional schedule and are almost always in constant touch. A variation on the ‘open road’ theme often portrays them as cavaliers, ignoring laws and road restrictions in order to get the parcel there on time. Well, romantic as that may image be, not too many of them are going to put their license, finances and maybe lives at risk, just in order to get that parcel of candy samples to its destination 10 minutes faster than the legal speed limit would permit!

“Turn your backs and they vanish”

This is a good one. It has its origin in the occasional guy who, having been ignored in reception for 10 minutes and then asked to wait for another 5 (some 20 minutes ago), reluctantly left in a fit of exasperation. Oh yes, he also then had to give his boss a severe listening-to for running behind schedule.

So, the moral of this slightly tongue in cheek story is – don’t believe everything you hear about courier jobs!

Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Courier Exchange, the world’s largest neutral trading hub for same day courier jobs in the express freight exchange industry. Over 2,500 transport exchange businesses are networked together through their website, trading jobs and capacity in a safe ‘wholesale’ environment.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

What’s the difference between a courier and a freight company?

That’s a good question and sometimes the lines between the two may be a little blurred.

Typically, the former specialize in point-to-point express collection and delivery. By contrast, freight companies may operate collection, consolidation, haulage, unloading and re-distribution services. Of course, some haulage may involve a single full load also going point-to-point and some delivery drivers may transship. It’s also often (but not always) the case that the former specialize in smaller parcels taken via van, motorcycle or even bicycle – perhaps with air transport in between. You won’t often hear a motorcycle delivery guy describing themselves as freight haulage specialists or a trucker saying that they do courier jobs!

Do you get international couriers?

Yes, absolutely, though that may mean slightly different things depending upon where you are. Some companies may offer international delivery services that involve a fast motorcycle to the airport, airfreight then a fast bike at the other end collecting the parcel for delivery.

Sometimes, if the consignment is of sufficient value to make it cost-effective to do so, it might be accompanied door-to-door all the way – even around the globe. Where companies are near an international border, cross-border door-to-door accompanied courier jobs may be much more commonplace than they are in, say, areas of the central USA.

Are there certain types of goods that won’t be carried?

In theory, you can ship just about anything from anywhere to anywhere, except where national or state laws prohibit it. In practice, some delivery companies may have strict policies that prohibit the carriage of dangerous materials, weapons, live animals and so on. Some may also refuse to carry materials they regard as being offensive – e.g. possibly tobacco, alcohol or adult material etc. Those things may form part of the company’s terms and conditions.

Why is special packaging sometimes required?

This is a tricky and sometimes controversial issue but it has its origins in logic. Many courier jobs have got into difficulties (spoilages, losses etc) due to the shipper using poor and inappropriate packing or packaging materials. A related problem sometimes arises due to a shipper failing to accurately declare the dimensions of the object they’re shipping.

These sorts of troubles (and others like them) may cause severe difficulties not only in terms of security but also in handling. Examples include vans arriving only to discover that the object is too long to fit safely inside, or cartons being used that are so tiny that they are easily lost if transshipment is required at a depot handling center. To try and eliminate at least some of these, some companies may insist that clients use standard packing cartons.

Although sometimes seen by some clients as being unnecessarily restrictive, in fact, it may just help smooth the progress of many courier jobs.

Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Courier Exchange, the world’s largest neutral trading hub for same day courier jobs in the express freight exchange industry. Over 2,500 transport exchange businesses are networked together through their website, trading jobs and capacity in a safe ‘wholesale’ environment.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

In the case of Venetian transfers, this prospect is made much more appealing by the fact that visitors get to choose between regular cabs or the city’s unique “water taxis”. And while most tourists are sure to jump right at the novelty ride, traditional cabs also have a word to say on the subject. This article compares traditional Venice airport transport transfers with water ones, enabling you to choose whichever one best suits your needs.

The first thing you have to bear in mind is that Venetian transfers by water are expensive. Water transport is famously costly (you pay for convenience), and when you add in the cost of luggage and the fact that it’s an airport run, you may find yourself dipping quite considerably into your budget. Regular cabs, on the other hand, are no more expensive than anywhere else in the world, even taking into account the extra fares.

But here, another very important factor comes into play. As you probably know, the city is built on water, and there are very few places traffic is allowed into. As such, a “classic” Venice airport transport transfer would be virtually useless if you were trying to get into the city centre, as cars are not allowed into the “heart” of La Serenissima. Water shuttles, on the other hand, can negotiate the canals with ease and, while not allowed everywhere either, are significantly more flexible and mobile in their routes.

But what it will probably come down to, for all but the more budget-conscious tourists, is the novelty. The fact that many vessels – even those performing Venice airport transport transfers – travel on the canals means that, much like in Amsterdam, riding one will allow you to take in many of the city’s sights in just one go, And let’s face it – travelling to your hotel alongside a scenic canal bank beats chugging along on a dull, drab highway any day!

This, along with the mobility factor, may explain why most visitors choose the water cabs for their Venice airport transport transfers. More economy-minded travellers, or those with a smaller budget, may, however, be pleased to know that a classic transfer, while definitely second best in this Italian city, still has its merits nonetheless – especially if you’re going to mainland suburbs like Mestre, where traffic operates normally. Ultimately, though, it is up to you to choose if you want the more traditional, no-frills transfer or the touristy experience; both are valid in their own way.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Venice airport transport transfers can be made easy with Shuttle Direct. We provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Moonraker
The 11th James Bond film, 1979′s Moonraker, saw Roger Moore visit Venice to investigate the disappearance of a space shuttle. Many of the city’s most famous locations pop up in the film. At one point, Bond, in a comic scene that was lambasted by the critics, steers an inflatable gondola around the canal network and St Mark’s Square. Bond also has a fight with a henchman called Chang by the famous clock-tower, and, in an important plot-point concerning mysterious glassware, the spy visits Drax’s glassworks and museum, which is just off Piazza San Marco. So, if you get a Venice airport transport transfer, ask the driver to point you in the direction of some of these great locations.

Death in Venice
As you might expect from its title, Thomas Mann’s famous 1912 novella, which was adapted into a film in 1971 with Dirk Bogarde, is set predominately in the water city. Both heavily feature the Lido, an 11km long sandbar in the city which is easily accessible from Venice airport transport. The Grand Hôtel des Bains, made famous by the story, closed its doors, however, in 2010, and will re-open as a luxury apartment complex. This was not due to a cholera epidemic, it must be pointed out! For fans of the book and film, you can still savour the elegance of the Lido and the nearby beach where Gustav von Aschenbach obsessed daily over Tadzio, the handsome, blonde-locked young boy.

The Last Crusade
In the third instalment of the Indiana Jones trilogy, Harrison Ford’s character arrives in the city to investigate the disappearance of his father who had been searching for the Holy Grail. In a memorable moment in the film, Indy discovers an important clue in the Church of San Barnaba. Any driver of Venice airport transport or otherwise – should be able to take you to this church, situated in the Dorsoduro district, which is across the Grand Canal from St Mark’s. The church, which was built in 1749, is open daily from 7.30am to noon and 4.30pm to 7pm, wherein you can view this iconic interior made famous by Spielberg and crew.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Venice airport transport transfers can be made easy with Shuttle Direct. We provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Things are, however, a little different in Italy, particularly in Venice. Airport transport transfers aside – or maybe not even in that case! – Italians do not expect or require tips. You may still tip the European way, but if you follow the American practice, you may be seen as ostentatious, not to mention you will run out of money very quickly.

Oddly enough, information on how and when to tip in the water city is conflicting, even from locals. Some say never tip, others say just tip in regular situations – a Venice airport transport transfer, a haircut, room service, and so forth. However, some situations do seem to be consensual, such as restaurants, where you should never tip.

This is because, unlike other countries, Italian restaurants already include the price of service (generally an added 12%) on the bill. The extra charge effectively serves as the tip, and you are not expected to leave more. This is especially true in the small, non-touristy trattorias, where the act of tipping generously can be seen as a crass display of wealth! Similarly, when paying by credit card at a hotel, the manager will generally not make room in the bill for the inclusion of a tip.

Venice airport transport transfers, and cab rides in general, are a murky ground. Some people advise that you should tip the cabbie by around 5-10%, as you would in any other city, while others state that this is not expected, and that water taxis in particular are already sufficiently costly without that added charge. Perhaps in this situation it is better to compromise and give a small tip – but remember that a transfer will already include extra costs for supplements, airport service, and Sunday or after-hours services.

Ultimately, in any situation, it is up to your discretion whether or not to tip, and by how much. Keep in mind, however, that tipping is not a common practice in Italy, other than on very specific situations (Venice airport transport transfers, for example). And remember, always keep your budget in mind, or you might unexpectedly find yourself coming up short!

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Venice airport transport transfers can be made easy with Shuttle Direct. We provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

This, of course, leaves traditional drivers at a disadvantage: where everywhere else in the world their vehicles are an indispensable commodity, in Venice they are little more than throwaway by-lines in the city’s transportation system. In the “water city”, a traditional taxi is virtually worthless, outside of the occasional Venice airport transport choice. Drivers find themselves stunted, straitjacketed into circulating around areas where traffic is allowed, and permanently banished from the town centre; not a pleasant scenario.

In light of all this, a question arises: is there any reason traditional cabs should still operate in the city? And how have they not been driven out of business yet?

Well, in fact, there are a few arguments in favour of traditional cabs, even in this water based city. For one, they’re much cheaper than the novelty water taxis. Therefore, a more tight-budgeted traveller will gladly welcome the more economic Venice airport transport option they offer. And while their “banishment” from the town centre will constitute a disadvantage to most, those staying further outside of town, in areas where traffic circulates normally, like Mestre, will find that a land cab can deliver them to their hotel door, the same as in any other part of the world.

Similarly, if you’re looking to transfer directly from Marco Polo Airport to a cruise ship at the Venice Cruise Terminal, a traditional transfer may be your best bet. Similarly, if you’re going to that same location from, or staying anywhere around, the Piazzale Roma (the furthest inner-city point cabs are allowed to go to), one of these vehicles may constitute a good alternative to a shuttle bus.

Even still, there can be little doubt that traditional land-bound cabs are pretty much an obsolete redundancy in a city built on, and travelled by, water. But while traditional cabs are not likely to replace water ones as the main form of Venice airport transport anytime soon, they still are still very useful in the areas outside of the city centre, as well as much cheaper than their more touristy counterparts. As such, they may constitute a valid alternative for more budget-minded or “traditional” visitors to Venice.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Venice airport transport transfers can be made easy with Shuttle Direct. We provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

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Barcelona Olympic Stadium
The Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, or Barcelona Olympic Stadium, is situated in the south west of the city in Montjuïc, where it is nestled in a hill overlooking the beautiful harbour. As such, it is only a short journey by taxi from Barcelona airport. The historic stadium was erected in 1927 as part of the city’s bid for the 1936 Olympic Games – which it eventually lost to Berlin. However, half a century later, after a successful bid for the 1992 Olympics, the stadium, in 1989, was renovated, and hosted one of the most esteemed Olympics of the modern era.

New Field
The New Field Stadium, or Camp Nou as the locals call it, is home to FC Barcelona and was built in 1957. Situated in the west of the city, it is the largest stadium in Europe and one of the largest in the world. As well as hosting many international sporting events over the years, it has seen some of the world’s biggest music stars grace its stage; from hosting Michael Jackson’s record-breaking Bad tour, to the rock super-heavyweights like Bruce Springsteen and U2, Camp Nou has seen it all. And the best part? You can get there in no time at all by simply hailing a taxi from Barcelona airport.

Circuit de Catalunya
Also known as Circuit de Barcelona, this venue is the city’s motorsport race track. It is situated in Montmeló, in the north of the city, but again, if you get a taxi from Barcelona airport, it’s a short trip. The circuit was built in 1991 and it plays host to driving events such as Moto GP and Formula 1. The annual Spanish Grand Prix, which takes place at the Circuit de Barcelona, is one of the city’s most exciting spectator sports. Over the last 20 years, the Spanish Grand Prix has witnessed some moments of true racing magic from the likes of Ayrton Senna, Nigel Mansell and Michael Schumacher.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you need a taxi from Barcelona airport , Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Spring fashion

Of course, for brides everywhere, the most important element of the day is their couture wedding dresses. Spring is the perfect opportunity for fresh, playful trends such as shorter skirts, layered hems, sleeveless bodices, and lower necklines. Plus, due to the warmer weather, lighter, airier fabrics such as sheer muslin and eyelet lace make the perfect materials. Check with your designer for spring styles and materials that would flatter your particular body type, and as well as accessories that will show off your best features.

Great outdoor weather

Dreaming of a garden or beach setting for your nuptials? Spring is the perfect time for exchanging outdoor ‘I do’s’. There’s nothing like the fresh air and being surrounded by nature for creating romance. No worries about few light spring showers; garden tents give great protection while helping create the “look” and ambience of your outdoor wedding. Complementary ribbons, flowers, and lights to decorate the surrounding trees and vegetation can also help create the perfect fairytale setting, especially for night-time ceremonies or receptions. In addition, spring couture wedding dresses are perfect for layering; a sleeveless bodice or a fitted halter top with a matching dainty shawl or a structured lace jacket are a few options to consider. Check out bridal magazines or online bridal shops for ideas.

Spring Colours

Although winter colours, such as silver and white, are perfectly lovely and appropriate for getting married in, the soft colours of spring can be much more fun and flattering. Consider ecru, champagne, and pale peach as the base colours for your couture wedding dresses, and fresh fun colours such as pink, pale blue, lilac, and salmon—even a mixtures of colours—for your accents. Great tip: trendsetters claim that salmon is the new ‘it’ colour this year because it is flattering to most skin tones. Whether as your dress colour or makeup palette, you’re sure to look amazing!

Soft natural light

Let’s face it, matter how perfect, your special day will only last a day! Your photos, on the other hand, will last forever. The last thing you need is to worry about poor photographs due to bad lighting. Spring sunlight is far softer and more flattering than either summer or winter sunlight, and, combined with natural spring greenery, provides the perfect backdrop for photographs. No need to worry about filters or light diffusers. Plus, spring-coloured couture wedding dresses photograph much better than plain white.

Flowers, flowers, flowers!

If you’re not the type for flashy jewels or harsh modernist décor, fresh flowers are the perfect adornments – both for you and your ceremony. Spring provides an abundance of choices for flowers, such as lilies, gardenia, irises, cherry blossoms, and lilacs, among many others. Chances are, your favourite flower will be in season. Splurge–use them in everything from headdresses to centrepieces to cake decorations, and let your flower girl throw flower petals to her heart’s delight.

Looking for couture wedding dresses ? Tatiana Porembova is one of the leading wedding dress designers in London and her work spans a range of styles and influences. Based in Richmond, she creates beautiful couture wedding dresses and bridesmaids outfits to provide the perfect garments for the perfect day.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Best of all, brides and their bridesmaids can now wear spring fashions! In honour of the season, spring couture wedding dresses are lighter, more colourful, and more fun than their winter counterparts. Below is a list of some of the trends for spring gowns you may wish to consider when designing your own.

Shorter, layered, or asymmetrical hems

Outdoor weddings are hugely popular in the spring. After all, who wants to stay indoors when the sun is finally shining, birds are singing, and the flowers are in bloom? Consider shorter hem lengths for your couture wedding dresses; not only will shorter lengths keep you free from mud, dirt, or grass stains, they‘ll be easier to move (and dance!) in when you’ve said your ‘I do’s’ and are getting down to some serious partying. There are no worries about showing too much leg (unless you really intend to!); ‘shorter’ can be anything from just skimming the ankle to well above the knee. Layered hems are quite popular, and high–low hemlines (i.e., shorter in the front but longer at the back) are currently attracting much attention. Or consider a shorter skirt with a removable train—both romantic and modern. Check with your dress designer to determine the perfect hem length for your bridal gown

You have the right to bare your arms

The warmer weather is the perfect for a ‘minimal’ fashion approach. Couture wedding dresses featuring bared shoulders, such as a dress with a sweetheart neckline, give you an opportunity to show off your beautiful skin, lovely neck, and toned arms. With your hair swept up and a gorgeous headdress, you’ll be sure to feel like a princess. ‘Less is more’ not only refers to the amount of fabric, but also to the kind of fabric used. Spring is the perfect time for light, sheer, and airy fabrics such as georgette, silk chiffon, and lace. If you’re worried about possible inclement weather or intend to party deep into the night, have your designer create a matching cape or jacket that you can just throw on when it becomes cooler.

Colour is the new white

This spring’s couture wedding dresses are moving away from plain white, preferring soft neutral and pastel shades. Champagne seems to be one of the most popular shades for gowns this year, in addition to ecru and pale peach. For brides who still prefer white, consider coloured accents such as flowers (whether real or silk), ribbons, or seed pearls, which, thanks to modern technology, now come in all shades. Try shades of coral and tangerine, which are being hailed as being especially beautiful and flattering, as well as ever-popular pink and lilac. Prints, especially floral prints, are also making a splash.

Looking for couture wedding dresses ? Tatiana Porembova is one of the leading wedding dress designers in London and her work spans a range of styles and influences. Based in Richmond, she creates beautiful couture wedding dresses and bridesmaids outfits to provide the perfect garments for the perfect day.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Finding your Fill

The vibrant towns of this part of Italy are a great place to enjoy outstanding mouth-watering cuisine. If your Italian is up to it (and even if it’s not!), one of the best holiday experiences is to haggle at the food stalls that make up the small town fair, or sagre. These vendors form a vibrant, bustling, one-stop shop for local produce; it’s the place to come if you want to pick up food and delicacies to enjoy later back in your accommodation. Puglia’s sagres also often offer a piazza where you can enjoy live local folk music being played. Fairy lights strung through the trees provide a warm, vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.

Soaking up the Sagre

The sagres date back to a more agrarian time when the local farmers first trundled their wares to market. The traditions remain today and are a great way to enjoy the lifestyle and to sample the local seasonal produce. They are often at their busiest during the holiday season of July and August, so come prepared to rub shoulders with the locals – literally! For those who understand a little Italian, the markets can also be a great way to observe the good hearted bragging that goes on as the farmers compete to convince all who will listen they have grown the best produce.

Local Specialities

Away from the great food that might be offered at your accommodation, Puglia has plenty of delicious and unique local dishes for you to tuck into. As one of the major food producers in Italy, the hearts of the region’s residents are close to their stomachs! The area is the prime producer of the traditional caciocavallo cheese, and is also the largest producer of olive oil in all of Italy. The pasta dishes of the region make use of the distinctive orecchiette style of pasta, which is most often served up with tomato sauce, potatoes, mussels or broccoli.

Helen Forbes is from Essential Italy, a company specialising in Italian holiday villas, apartments and hotels. If you’re looking for the perfect Italian accommodation, Puglia is ideal. Our handpicked accommodation, Puglia and elsewhere, offers distinctive Italian qualities, great comfort and convenience.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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If you are lucky enough to be planning for a summertime wedding, there are some great venues along the coast of the United Kingdom that will help you to create your perfect beach-side wedding. If you are considering exchanging your vows by the water, then consider these interesting and beautiful locations right here on your doorstep: Tregenna Castle, Tunnels Beaches, and the Nash Point Lighthouse.

Tregenna Castle — Located on the stunning St. Ives Bay, and overlooking the St. Ives village, this castle home and gardens was originally built in 1774 and became a hotel in 1887. The grandly appointed castle hotel, complete with turrets, will be the perfect backdrop as you try on couture wedding dresses for the perfect last, minute alterations for your ceremony. You can choose to have your ceremony in one of the hotel’s many beautiful function rooms, or down by the beach if the weather permits – riding back through the gates of Tregenna Castle will give you and your loved one a fairytale start to your lives together.

Tunnels Beaches — Picking out couture wedding dresses to match this interesting and unique venue on the north Devon coast, could be one of the most challenging aspects of planning your special day at Tunnels Beaches. The wild and rugged coastal views with their blue waters and dark sands are a stunning place for you to tie the knot – and a picturesque photo opportunity like no other. With the high season here, predictably, in the summer, you can also switch it up and marry in the winter in the gorgeous, indoor facility that does nothing to inhibit the feel of the ocean and the rugged coastline just metres away. To add to the intriguing atmosphere of the venue, the tunnels that lead to and from the sands make for a truly unique backdrop.

Nash Point Lighthouse — If you aren’t planning on having a really large ceremony but still want to carry off your big day in a unusual location, then you should consider the Nash Point Lighthouse, which is located on the Vale of Glamorgan Heritage Coastline. For this location, you must decide wisely when it comes to couture wedding dresses to suit. This is the first and only working lighthouse in the United Kingdom that is licensed to serve as a wedding or civil partnership venue, and certainly your dress should somewhat reflect the locale. The imposing lighthouse itself was designed in 1832 to mark the sandbanks at the entrance to the Bristol Channel, and the circular towers with thick, white walls form an impressive backdrop to your ceremony.

Looking for couture wedding dresses ? Tatiana Porembova is one of the leading wedding dress designers in London and her work spans a range of styles and influences. Based in Richmond, she creates beautiful couture wedding dresses and bridesmaids outfits to provide the perfect garments for the perfect day.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Characteristics

Musk Oxen are an interesting species to observe on polar holidays, as they’re an animal of contrasts. While adults are large creatures – standing 1.2 metres tall and weighing up to 900 pounds – their thick coats and large heads often make the animal appear to be even larger than it really is. Their coats can also be much more valuable than their distinctive odour might suggest – the long black and brown hairs form a wool called qiviut, which is highly prized for its softness and its insulation value. A scarf or other garment of qiviut wool can be a wonderful memento of a trip spent observing these fascinating animals.

Observing the Herd

You’re likely to see Musk Oxen in a wide variety of social situations during your polar holidays – not in the sense that you might share a friendly conversation over dinner, but rather that Musk Oxen (perhaps also contrary to their moniker) are actually quite social animals. They often live in packs of 12 to 24 members in the winter, and from 8 to 20 members in the easier summer months. As might be expected, there is a clear hierarchy to the herds in order. Dominant Musk Oxen lay their claim to the best patches of grass, and keep their subordinates in line by roaring, swinging their heads, and pawing at the ground. A particularly authoritarian Musk Ox may even casually kick a subordinate with its foreleg, just to remind the other members of the herd who’s in charge!

The Population

Although the population of Musk Oxen historically declined due to human hunting, proactive population management has ensured that the species thrives across Arctic North America and Greenland. They make a wonderful sight to observe on your polar holidays, and can be spotted without needing to get close enough to enjoy their distinctive musk!

Marissa Ellis-Snow is a freelance nature writer. If you’re looking for polar holidays, Naturetrek specialise in expert-led natural history and wildlife tours worldwide. Naturetrek bring over 25 years of experience to polar holidays and other spectacular regions on Earth.

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Spitsbergen

The largest island in the archipelago, much of the action in Svalbard takes place in Spitsbergen, and this is where many people on polar holidays will find themselves. The island’s largest conurbation is Longyearbyen – the centre of cultural, commercial and municipal life in the islands. The town is the seat of the local government and the world’s northernmost settlement (other than research stations). It is home to just over 2,000 people and is famed for its colourful weather-resistant buildings.

Arctic Fowl

Many people who embark on polar holidays to the region will spend at least some of their time at sea. A cruise of the area allows visitors to observe the abundant bird life that inhabits the cliffs and mountains that ring the islands. There are large colonies of Little Auks and Brunnich’s Guillemots nesting on the ragged cliff-faces. Further inland visitors can look out for the Grey Phalarope and the Barnacle Goose. The Barents Sea is famed as one of the areas in the world most densely populated by sea-birds, and other species include the Northern Fulmar, Thick-billed Murre and the Black-legged Kittiwake. Sixteen of the native bird species are on the IUCN Red List of endangered wildlife.

Go There for the Bear

There is one main reason that most people heading to Svalbard choose the destination, and it is fluffy, white and very big: the Polar bear! Polar Bears are an icon of the islands, and those human residents leaving the settlement are required to carry a rifle for last-resort protection. Between Svalbard and its distant neighbour Franz Joseph Land there is a population of 3,000 Polar Bears, making it perhaps the best area for those who want to spot these majestic beasts.

Marissa Ellis-Snow is a freelance nature writer. If you’re looking for polar holidays, Naturetrek specialise in expert-led natural history and wildlife tours worldwide. Naturetrek bring over 25 years of experience to polar holidays and other spectacular regions on Earth.

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Tough Tusks

Undoubtedly one of the most fascinating features you’ll note about the Walrus during your polar holidays is the giant creatures’ tusks. Believe it or not, these elongated canines can reach lengths of up to one metre in both males and females – even though you might not be able to get close enough to measure them from tip to gum! The tusks are generally larger among males, where they’re used for fighting and dominance displays. No matter the gender of Walrus, though, their tusks come in useful in their everyday life – such as to help make holes in ice, or to aid in dragging prey out from the sea and onto a solid surface.

Predators and Prey

Due to its great bulk and intimidating tusks, the Walrus enjoys a life of relative safety from predators. It only needs to worry about two creatures hungry for a Walrus snack – the Orca, and the Polar Bear. Luckily, however, the Walrus isn’t a large part of either predator’s diet, meaning there are always plenty around to see on your polar holidays.

Myth and Legend

The Walrus features prominently in the religion and folklore of many Arctic communities. In one version of the folktale ‘Myth of the Raven’ (where Raven recovers the stolen sun and moon from a spirit by seducing his daughter), the father hurls the daughter from a high cliff in retribution, and as she plummets into the water she transformed into the original Walrus. According to legend, the tusks were originally formed from the tears of the weeping girl. However, the Walrus has also featured in more modern stories across the world – those two distinctive tusks making them an instantly recognizable creature, whether on polar holidays or in the pages of an illustrated children’s book. One of the greatest examples is from Lewis Carrol’s poem, ‘The Walrus and the Carpenter’, that appeared in his seminal ‘Through the Looking-Glass’, in 1871.

Marissa Ellis-Snow is a freelance nature writer. If you’re looking for polar holidays, Naturetrek specialise in expert-led natural history and wildlife tours worldwide. Naturetrek bring over 25 years of experience to polar holidays and other spectacular regions on Earth.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Many business or recreational visitors to London tend to, understandably, gravitate towards the areas known as The City or the West End. The City is a square mile occupying, roughly, the area of the old Roman city of Londinium and its medieval successors. It is famous for being one of the world’s primary financial centres and also is rich in historical attractions such as St. Paul’s and the Tower of London. The West End originally grew up around what was once the separate city of Westminster and is now best known for being the centre of British government and the home of London’s shopping and entertainment scene.

Yet, fantastic as these areas are, if you are in a Hyde Park hotel, London to the west of these great centres has its own incredible attractions and you will be well-positioned to explore them and the surrounding countryside.

For example, a short journey to the west will take you to Hampton Court Palace. This is a fantastic Tudor Palace that, contrary to some misconceptions, was not built by Henry VIII in the 16th century but originally by one of his chief ministers. Being popular with Henry was a very transitory affair, and as his fortunes declined, the minister concerned gave his palace and grounds to the King in what proved to be a futile effort to retain favour. If you wish to step back into the Tudor period, the palace is well worth a visit.

If you would like a quick taste of the rather uniquely English suburban life, you may wish to visit Richmond. Sitting on the banks of The Thames (which this far upstream is a rather less intimidating river than it is in the centre of London), it is a charming collection of buildings and shops that somehow manages to retain a country atmosphere whilst being part of the London conurbation.

If you are staying in a Hyde Park hotel, London and the surrounding areas to the west also offer other unique places to visit. You may wish to try Kew Gardens (The Royal Botanic Gardens). There is simply not space enough here to describe the wonders of the plant life in this huge area though, of course, some of attractions may be seasonal. Also well worth a visit is Chiswick House – this is a beautiful early 18th century neoclassical property which also has some incredible and world-famous gardens and plant life to discover

In a Hyde Park hotel, London and its western attractions are waiting for you and are easily reached by the excellent public transport services. Of course, remember that not all sites may be opened at all times, so check with your local hotel staff to confirm the opening hours of the destination you are considering.

Looking for a Hyde Park hotel, London? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for Worldhotels, a company offering the best rooms at Hyde Park hotels, London and a selection of unique four and five star hotels around the world.

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The Town

Everybody knows, like the advertising campaign says, that ‘Virginia Is for Lovers’, nowhere is this more true than in Woodbridge. Given its laid back nature, proximity to wonderful sights and attractions, and wide choice of dining and entertainment options, this town in particular offers the kind of pace somewhere between the big city and a rustic rural area. With the increasing population, growing number of local businesses and nearby opportunities for jobs as well as healthy visitor activity, this town has become a quiet, yet thriving suburban center. In fact, even those who work out-of-state find it a great place to live!

Woodbridge History

Formerly a bedroom community formed out of a municipality of industrial farms and complexes, there are many older structures converted into quaint houses, storefronts and business locations by the many skilled home builders and other similar professionals in Woodbridge. Plumbers, for instance, have managed to convert old farmhouses and their systems into stylish modern abodes, as well as bring modern conveniences into others without sacrificing their historic charm– something important in a place tourists visit to watch re-enactments and the like.

Housing Options

For those intending to relocate, affordable yet highly liveable (not to mention lovable) housing is often the biggest obstacle– not so in Woodbridge! Plumbers, contractors, electricians, as well as other experts, are all nearby to ensure that the bargain affordable home you found meets all standards and even exceeds them.

The first thing to do, of course, is to check out the listings. Fortunately, there are plenty of affordable options, whether to rent or buy, new development or foreclosures, houses, apartments, condo units or even whole buildings! For those who want to get the best value for their money, fixer-uppers can prove to be good bargains, especially with the availability of reliable skilled professionals and tradespeople to help in the repairs – such as Woodbridge plumbers, electricians, carpenters and other home specialists. In fact, many homeowners and businessmen in town have trusty Woodbridge plumbers, carpenters, electricians, restoration experts and more on call– you probably won’t need to look far for a recommendation!

Sarah Saadoun works for HMS Plumbing, a family-owned business in Northern Virginia. If you’re looking for Woodbridge plumbers Herve and his dedicated employees at HMS are proud to be serving the needs of residents and businesses. For expert Woodbridge plumbers , HMS Plumbing is your first choice.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Français ou English?

For centuries, France and England/Britain squabbled over areas of the Caribbean, most notably St. Lucia. The word ‘squabble’ perhaps fails to convey the horror of some of these conflicts and the blood that was spilled over just whose flag flew over what small island.
There were many reasons for these conflicts, some of which formed part of larger global struggles and some that were specifically related to control of the island, its agricultural wealth and its harbours. Of course, today this all seems like ancient history and is perhaps a mixture of embarrassing plus incomprehensible to modern eyes. Yet those conflicts of old have left a lasting and more agreeable legacy in terms of Saint Lucia honeymoons, in the cultural heritage of this island and its people.

To and fro

If ancient history really isn’t your scene then you have no need to worry, this article isn’t going to revisit every battle and change in fortunes that took place over the centuries!

What is important to know is that the island changed hands around nine times between Britain and France and, as you might imagine, these changes left a number of lasting impacts on the island. The French influence on the island is very clear and you will see it in place names, personal names, the parish-based division of the island and, most importantly, in elements of the local cuisine. The local language is a patois containing a heavy French influence, including in aspects of the accent.

Although the island eventually became British permanently at the start of the 19th century, they were initially more interested in naval and commercial issues and they allowed much of the French background culture to continue as it always had. During the British period, the island’s capital was moved from Soufière to Castries, mainly to service naval requirements and British law and political institutions were also implemented. Today this British structural influence remains strong, although the island has been independent for a long time and now has its own distinct and recognisable culture.

The synthesis

Although the British and French influences over the centuries have left an indelible impression, it should not be overlooked that there was a native Carib population in place prior to the European arrival. Another huge factor in terms of cultural contribution came from Africa, due to the fact that large numbers of slaves were brought to the island to work the plantations. One of the most interesting aspects of Saint Lucia honeymoons is that they will allow you the opportunity to see this great mélange of cultures and the unique ambience and cuisine that is the result.

Soaking up this atmosphere on Saint Lucia honeymoons is one of the great joys of choosing this island as a destination. It may also be something that makes you want to hurry back!

Ross Stevenson is the General Manager of Cap Maison. With a reputation as the foremost luxury hotel on St Lucia, they provide a wide selection of services for St Lucia honeymoons and options for couples who want to enjoy a blissful Caribbean experience.

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There is, of course, no single answer to the question of just what the best honeymoon ideas are. What may be said with some certainty though is that this is a special event that you want to remember for the rest of your life, and that means that the selection of your destination is critically important. Choose the wrong destination and your romantic holiday may well be remembered for the rest of your life – but possibly for all the wrong reasons.

Why Saint Lucia honeymoons?

There is, of course, a certain magnetic quality when talking about the Caribbean, but even in that context, Saint Lucia honeymoons may be something a little different and very special.

The island has some absolutely breathtaking beaches in places such as Anse Chastenet, Labrelotte Bay and the Anse Des Pitons. Some of these are so stunning as to be almost beyond description, but what makes the island that bit different to begin with is that behind the beaches there is a fascinating hinterland just waiting to be explored too. There are some incredible hiking and walking trails where you will encounter flora and fauna that you may not have seen previously. Some of the views from some of the trail points are the sort of thing that once seen will never be forgotten – and for all the right reasons!

It might also be worth planning a visit to the island’s volcano at Soufière, where you will have the opportunity to explore hot mud, steam vents and to take a dip in the steaming hot natural bath waters. If you like history, the island abounds with opportunities to see things such as historic forts, towns and colonial era plantations, some of which may still be working. Saint Lucians are justifiably proud of the island and its natural wonders, and these friendly people will be very keen to help you enjoy your stay and get your married life off to a memorable start.

Shopping

St Lucia has a proud heritage of success in the arts and in places such as Castries and the town of Soufière (and some other locations) you may be able to see local artists working in a variety of genres and be able to purchase some of their wares. In both of those locations, plus places such as Rodney Bay, you will find extensive ranges of boutiques and designer shops and at prices that you may well find to be as attractive as the island itself! While memories of Saint Lucia honeymoons may be worth their weight in gold, perhaps taking something back with you that is a little more tangible just might help keep those memories that bit more alive.

Ross Stevenson is the General Manager of Cap Maison. With a reputation as the foremost luxury hotel on St Lucia, they provide a wide selection of services for St Lucia honeymoons and options for couples who want to enjoy a blissful Caribbean experience.

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Set to be held between October 28 and November 4, the 2012 edition of this event has the particularity of being a landmark not only for the rugby world, but also for Japan, which is hosting an event such as this for the very first time. The touristy appeal of the country, in conjunction with the relevance of the festival itself, is therefore likely to make Fukuoka the destination for many school rugby tours this autumn.

It is also worth mentioning that the choice of this city as the host for the festival was far from arbitrary. Fukuoka is considered the sporting capital of Japan, and has a long, well-documented tradition in rugby. Most notably, it spawned the highest number of national team representatives for this sport out of any Japanese city! No less than two Top League teams are also based on this city, making it an even more attractive candidate for school rugby tours.

The festival itself will feature three days of games, interspersed with “free days” dedicated to picnics, exploration of Fukuoka, and of course the opening and closing ceremonies – the latter of which includes an award ceremony sponsored by NZ Airlines. The numerous teams already signed up for the event include representatives from Australia (the best-represented country), New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Cook Islands, Ireland, Russia, the United States, and of course Japan. With so many professionals in action, there will no doubt be ample opportunities for students on school rugby tours to appreciate and absorb the finer points of the sport. And, on the two ‘off days’, they can enjoy a picnic or do a little sightseeing in the attractive Japanese city, helping round out a package that perfectly combines the educational and touristy aspects inherent to school trips.

The reasons detailed above, coupled with the fact that Japan is a somewhat unusual destination for this type of trip, contribute to make Fukuoka, and the 2012 World Rugby Festival, an attractive proposition for those looking for new places to visit on their school rugby tours.

Aiden Armstrong works for Pavilion Tours, a specialist travel service for schools, colleges and youth groups with a specific focus on school rugby tours as well as adventure, performing arts and geography. Pavilion Tours offer both local and international tours covering a variety of programmes.

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Stade de France

The national stadium of France, the Stade de France, is situated just north of Paris, and makes a wonderful visit for students on school rugby tours. Inaugurated in 1998 with a football game between France and Spain, it’s easy to see how the stadium has gone from strength to strength. With a seating capacity of over 80,000, the stadium is the eighth largest in Europe, and has played host to games of the highest calibre, including the 1999 and 2007 rugby world cups. It’s also the home of both the French national football and rugby teams, and once tour groups have had the chance to inspect the facilities, it’s not hard to see why.

Stade Français

Another stadium very much worth a visit during your school rugby tours is the Stade Jean-Bouin, home to the famous Stade Français rugby club. One of the most successful clubs of the modern era, it’s certainly worth learning about for anyone interested in the modern clubs and leagues of rugby. Stade Français plays in the Top 14 domestic league in Paris, although they have a long and colourful history. The club participated in the very first French championship final in 1892, and won numerous titles during the development of the sport in the 1900’s. It makes for an interesting lead in to further history study while on your trip, as the abstract details of the period can become quite relevant to how the game was seen and played.

What’s in a name?

An interesting observation to make on school rugby tours is that of the name ‘Stade Français‘ – in the 1800’s, many emerging sports clubs were both modelled and named after their English counterparts, so a club named ‘Stade’, as a reminder of the athletic accomplishments of Ancient Greece, took on a new symbolism for the club.

Aiden Armstrong works for Pavilion Tours, a specialist travel service for schools, colleges and youth groups with a specific focus on school rugby tours as well as adventure, performing arts and geography. Pavilion Tours offer both local and international tours covering a variety of programmes.

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While you are in the countryside of the region you should take the time to visit some of the smaller towns and cities that help to make up this interesting and beautiful area. Be sure to spend a day in Montepulciano, Prato, and Pescia, testing out some of the local products and experiencing the historical flair.

Montepulciano — Located in the province of Siena in the southern part of Tuscany, villas nearby will give you great access to the town of Montepulciano. As a Medieval and Renaissance town that sits up on a high ridge, Montepulciano is filled with history and beautiful buildings that are worth more than a passing glance. The Palazzo Comunal will bring back flashes of the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, as it is built in the same style; and the Duomo of the city is a work of the Sienese school and is considered a true masterpiece. But, one thing that you will be sure to notice is the abundance of good wine in the town. This area is known for its produce and Vino Nobile, which is considered one of Italy’s best wines. It should not be confused with the more diffused wines made with the Montepulciano grape variety.

Prato — While you are in Tuscany, villa rentals between the towns will give you access to places you might not have considered visiting before, such as Prato. Situated at the foot of Monte Retaia, this capital city of the province of the same name is known for its history in textiles and its part in the ‘slow food’ movement. While here, be sure to see the Duomo, the Palazzo Pretorium, and the Santa Maria della Pietà. This last was built between 1617 and 1619 and houses a 14th century fresco of the Madonna and Child that is said to have miraculous powers. Before you leave, be sure to pick up a taste of the cantucci – a biscoti like biscuit made by the local bakers.

Pescia — Tucked into the zone between Florence and Lucca, Pescia is a battleground between the two larger cities on either side, and was subsequently destroyed and rebuilt during the 13th century. During your time in Tuscany, villas near to Pescia give you great access to both Florence and Lucca, but you shouldn’t overlook Pescia as a destination in and of itself. Have a stroll around the city and visit the Palazzo Vicario, Palazzo Palagio, and the Gothic Church of St. Francis, before picking up a bundle of the carnations, which the city is renowned for, and heading back to your nearby accommodation.

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialise in finding the perfect Tuscany villas as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Each property is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

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Practical Choices

Before you can go Everest Base Camp trekking, there are decisions to make and practicalities to consider. First of all, when to go? The trekking seasons are from October to December and March to April – the winter period being much colder, especially at altitude. But, of course, this varies from year to year and it is wise to keep an eye on weather forecasts. Another important practicality is ensuring you have the equipment you’ll need: sturdy hiking boots, and a range of clothing suited to the different climates you’ll pass through are essential. Also remember to allow time for ensuring your tour or flight bookings, your Nepalese visa, and insurance are all in order.

Physical Preparation

Being as physically ready for the trek as possible not only vastly increases your chances of success – it also means you will be able to get the most out of the experience, since you will have the energy to enjoy your surroundings instead of simply struggling against them. However well you prepare, Everest Base Camp trekking will be on another level, but to ready yourself as best you can, experts recommend a range of activities. Running is a staple of mountaineering training, as it builds muscle strength, cardio and stamina –the most effective training will involve running at an incline as well as on flat surfaces; if you are already running regularly it might be worth adjusting your route to include more slopes. Another useful way of building up the muscles you’ll need is to walk with a pack of equivalent weight to what you’ll carry on the journey itself.

Mental Preparation

It’s a good idea to read up on other people’s experiences of Everest Base Camp trekking, to help you gain an understanding of what it’s like, and what emotional and mental tests might lie ahead. Some of the physical challenges are hard to prepare physically for – especially the changing altitudes – but knowing what to expect and how to deal with it is useful. And, of course, researching what lies ahead can help whet your appetite for the trek, as well as ensuring that you’re as well-prepared as can be.

Jude Limburn Turner is the Marketing Manager for Mountain Kingdoms, an adventure tour company who have run Everest Base Camp trekking itineraries for over 20 years. They now offer treks and tours worldwide, including destinations in North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Central and South East Asia.

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Introducing Pyin Oo Lwin

Thanks to its verdant beauty, high altitude – reaching up to 2000 metres – and cool climate, the Shan Plateau proved very popular with the British colonists. Hill stations were established where they could spend the hottest months in milder conditions than those in the cities lower down. Today, the mountains are enjoyed by visitors who travel to Burma from colder countries for much the same reason. Pyin Oo Lwin retains much of its hill-station character, with old British buildings and a sleepy country atmosphere. Reminders of the imperial era are laced through everything: from the old name Maymyo (which, despite its Burmese sound, is taken from the name of the town’s first British administrator, Colonel May) to the nearby National Kandawgyi Gardens, a beautiful botanic garden originally built under the British.Today’s visitors will find a town that is now all Burmese – albeit with some idiosyncratic features.

What to See and Do

For those with an interest in the town’s British legacy, there are some notable landmarks, including the Purcell Tower at the crossroads. This clock tower was a gift from Queen Victoria, a replica of the tower she gifted to Cape Town. The most enchanting way to see the town is to take a ride in a horse-drawn taxi carriage – one of the more unusual modes of transport you’ll encounter when you travel to Burma. For those with time to venture a little further afield, there are some fantastic gentle walks through the countryside just a short drive away from Pyin Oo Lwin. The Anisakan Falls are just a few kilometres south of the town, and are a magnificent place to explore. A steep descent down a rocky gorge brings you stunning views, and the pools at the bottom are perfect for relaxing by.

Jude Limburn Turner is the Marketing Manager for Mountain Kingdoms, an adventure tour company who run tours enabling people to travel to Burma. Operating in Asia for over 20 years, they now offer treks and tours worldwide, including destinations in North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Central and South East Asia.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Traditional Music

There are a number of classical traditions in Burmese music that you may come across on your holidays. Burma has been influenced in many of its cultural traditions by China, India and Thailand, and music is no exception. The pentatonic scale used in many classical pieces is thought to have come from China, while there is also a heavy Mon influence, and certain songs can be traced back to Thailand’s Ayutthaya kingdom. Though it has all these roots and more, the music you hear today is distinctly Burmese, often played by either an indoor or outdoor ensemble. The indoor ensemble accompanies a solo singer and consists of a saung (harp), pattala (xylophone), migyaung (zither) and palwe (flute). The outdoor ensemble is the one you will hear at festivals – it is called a ‘sidaw’ and is made up of a hnegyi (pipe), sidaw (pair of drums), si and wa (bell and clapper) and gandama (double-headed drum).

Folk Music

As you will see if you visit several different parts of the country on your holidays, Burma has a diverse mix of ethnic groups, many with distinct traditions – so there are several thriving folk music traditions. One that you might come across in village festivals is called ‘byaw’ and consists of singing accompanied by a thin drum, with occasional beats from a large drum. You may also hear music played on the ‘hsaing waing’, the traditional folk ensemble used in nat-worship ceremonies as well as in folk theatre. It mainly uses gongs and drums, with a double reed pipe, and is characterised by complex, shifting rhythms.

Popular Music

In any city that you visit on your holidays, Burma’s pop music will be audible. Not always political, there is nevertheless a strong tradition of resistance in popular music forms – from the rock of the 70s and 80s to the rap that became prominent in the late 90s. Using western styles but taking influence from Burmese classical and folk traditions (including Thangyat – an age-old new year tradition in which villagers voice their grievances in song), pop music is one avenue for the country’s youth to talk about the issues affecting them, and there are thriving underground hip-hop, punk and metal scenes in many urban centres.

Jude Limburn Turner is the Marketing Manager for Mountain Kingdoms, an adventure tour company who run tours enabling people to enjoy unique holidays, Burma and beyond. Operating in Asia for over 20 years, they now offer treks and tours worldwide, including destinations in North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Central and South East Asia.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Rangoon’s History

For those looking forward to their Burma holidays, it can be fun – and useful – to learn a bit of the local history of their destination. Rangoon started its life as Dagon, an ancient Mon city established during the Dvaravati period. Although the fortunes of this city waxed and waned, there has been a settlement on the site ever since – situated at the meeting point of the rivers Myitmaka and Pegu, it has always been an important port. After the fall of the Mon kingdom of Pegu, the site was named Yangon by King Alaungpaya – the name means ‘end of strife’. It was renamed again, in 1886, by British colonists – becoming Rangoon.

What to See

In a country as culturally and ethnically diverse as Burma, holidays can encompass a wonderfully wide array of locations and atmospheres – and Rangoon is as distinctive as the rest. Simply walking or riding a trishaw through its streets or sipping tea in a street corner shop is sure to create memories of a city like no other.

But for those who want a more structured itinerary, here are a few ‘don’t miss’ sights. The central old city is worth seeing, with its elegant, weathered 19th century façades. The quarter’s heart, however, is a very different – and much older – kind of building: Sule Pagoda, thought to be over 2000 years old and therefore a remainder of the city’s earliest days. It is believed to contain a hair of the Buddha and is visited daily by the faithful. Nearby, in Mahabandoola Park, you can find the Independence Monument, which takes the form of an obelisk, with statues of sacred lions to guard it. For shopping, there are plenty of modern shops, but more interesting is the Bogyoke Aung San Market, which sells all kinds of market wares as well as precious stones, and handicrafts from all over Burma – holidays aren’t complete without souvenirs, and this is an ideal place to find them.

Jude Limburn Turner is the Marketing Manager for Mountain Kingdoms, an adventure tour company who run tours enabling people to enjoy Burma holidays . Operating in Asia for over 20 years, they now offer treks and tours worldwide, including destinations in North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Central and South East Asia.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Hruska Botanical Gardens

Originally established in 1910, the gardens cover an area of 10,000 square miles, providing plenty of opportunities for students on geography trips to discover different types of environments and plant life. There are over 2000 plants to be found in the confines of the gardens, with a wide range of different types and species to investigate. Due to the temperate climate of the Hruska Botanical Gardens, the plant life has been able to flourish, giving students the opportunity to learn about and interact with plants they might not otherwise be able to.

Parco Natura Viva

A wonderful excursion for students interested in discovering a little more about zoology and animal life during their geography trips, the Parco Natura Viva focuses on education and conservation of endangered species, all the while presenting a wide range of creatures in detailed representations of their natural habitats. There are plenty of exhibits for students to make notes on, featuring animals such as zebras, tigers, lions, giraffes, and lemurs. In a similar fashion to the Hruska Botanical Gardens, the temperate climate of the region makes open air exhibits a possibility, and special facilities are provided to keep other animals comfortable when they require different conditions.

The Dolomites

As a mountain range, the Dolomites offer students on geography trips quite a different area of study than Lake Garda itself. Declared a UNESCO World heritage site, there are several parks that allow visitors to engage with the mountain landscape and environment. One intriguing facet of the Dolomites, for avid geographers, is the construction of the mountains themselves. The range gains its name from dolomite, a type of carbonate rock which is responsible for the shapes and colouration of the mountains themselves.

Angela Bowden works for EST (Equity School Travel), the UK’s largest educational travel company, providing school trips for secondary schools, primary schools and colleges. Geography trips with EST can encompass a wide range of learning and more in worldwide destinations.

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The Northern Lights

A visual spectacle that adds even more magic to polar holidays, if you can witness the incredible luminescent ballet of the aurora borealis, then take every opportunity you get. The Northern Lights are a truly captivating sight, and while it’s difficult to accurately predict when and where the phenomenon will appear, by taking a vacation at the ends of the planet you’ll be putting yourself in the best place to witness it when it does occur. While the lights can be seen over head from the poles, further from these spots they appear as creeping wisps of light stretching over the horizon – lighting the sky in glorious greens and blues.

What Causes the Lights?

The phenomenon occurs when photons are emitted into the Earth’s upper atmosphere – when ionised nitrogen atoms regain an electron and when oxygen and nitrogen atoms calm to a ground state from an excited state. The solar wind and the magnetosphere draw the particles down and speed them along the planet’s magnetic field. When oxygen emissions are subject to these magnetic forces, the auroras appear green or rusty red. When nitrogen is responsible, they appear blue or red. The colour differences vary by altitude, meaning that you may catch glimpses of several colours during your polar holidays.

24 Hours of Day

Known as the land of the midnight sun, Norway is a great location for polar holidays. The more northern parts of the country are well within the Arctic Circle. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy the experience of the almost permanent daylight that is an important fact of life in this part of the planet. Midnight sun is another of the interesting natural phenomena that visitors to the region are enchanted by. The closer to the pole that you get, the more days experience midnight sun and its opposite, polar night, which occurs during winter. One thing’s for sure – if you travel to this stunningly beautiful part of our planet, you’ll have an experience unlike anywhere else on Earth.

Marissa Ellis-Snow is a freelance nature writer. If you’re looking for polar holidays, Naturetrek specialise in expert-led natural history and wildlife tours worldwide. Naturetrek bring over 25 years of experience to polar holidays and other spectacular regions on Earth.

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Behaviour

The Fosa is active both during the day and night, increasing your chances of spotting one of these predators no matter what kind of tour you undertake on your Madagascar wildlife holidays. The species is considered a solitary one; animals are often found alone, with the territories of males and females remaining separate for the most part. The animal’s population density is also quite low across Madagascar – for example, in Kirindy Forest where the Fosa is thought to be common, it’s estimated that there’s one Fossa for every four square kilometres of terrain, illustrating the point.

Diet and Feeding

As the largest predator you’re likely to see on your Madagascar wildlife holiday, the Fosa is nevertheless very picky about its food! It’s the only predator on Madagascar capable of preying on the island’s indigenous lemur. Lemurs comprise about 50% of the animal’s diet. The Fosa often hunts for its food individually, although, during the animal’s mating season, larger hunting parties might be spotted as they seek to impress a potential partner! The Fossa has also been known to choose more domestic prey when the opportunity arises, such as goats and chickens. Predatory Fosa who have targeted smaller domestic animals are in part responsible for the species’ feared reputation on the island.

Arboreal Activities

One characteristic of the Fosa that often impresses people on their Madagascar wildlife holidays is its penchant for trees. With flexible ankles and semi-retractable claws, it is able to climb up and down trees head-first and launch itself from branch to branch and tree to tree safely. These assets also come in useful while hunting food – they have been observed chasing Lemurs from tree to tree, trying to force them down to the ground where the swift Fosa will be able to catch them easily.

Marissa Ellis-Snow is a freelance nature writer. If you’re looking for a Madagascar wildlife holiday , Naturetrek specialise in expert-led natural history and wildlife tours worldwide. Naturetrek bring over 25 years of experience to a Madagascar wildlife holiday and other spectacular regions on Earth.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Central Highlands

A mountainous region in Central Madagascar, the region stretches to 800 metres above sea level – although there’s no need to worry you’ll need climbing gear to explore the lower areas. On a Madagascar wildlife holiday, a visit to some of the areas surrounding the mountains can reveal plenty of the country’s animal life – it’s home to species of bats, rodents, tenrecs, and lemurs. Since the Central Highlands are separated from the Northern Highlands by a low-lying valley named the Mandritsara Window, it’s a place where you can see animals that are very rare in other regions.

Isalo National Park

For travellers interested in a wide variety of terrains, there’s nowhere better to explore than Isalo National Park. It features plenty of different environments – from sandstone formations and deep canyons to grassland and palm-tree lined oases. Those on their Madagascar wildlife holiday will find plenty to look at – the park is home to over 80 species of birds, 30 species of reptiles, and several different species of lemur, including the Ring-tailed Lemur, Red-fronted Lemur, and Coquerel’s Giant Mouse Lemurs. The wide expanse of the park means trips may need a longer duration in order to have a hope of seeing the widest possible range of animals – they can last from several hours to a week, or even longer!

Avenue of the Baobabs

While it may not be the first location that springs to mind when contemplating a Madagascar wildlife holiday, this iconic area can really give a feel for the country and its incredible flora and fauna like no other place can. With baobab trees about 30m in height and over 800 years old lining a dirt road, it certainly has a unique atmosphere for a traveller eager to learn as much as they can of this wonderful country and the animals living in it.

Marissa Ellis-Snow is a freelance nature writer. If you’re looking for a Madagascar wildlife holiday , Naturetrek specialise in expert-led natural history and wildlife tours worldwide. Naturetrek bring over 25 years of experience to a Madagascar wildlife holiday and other spectacular regions on Earth.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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When the sprawling, prehistoric super-continent of Gondwanaland began to break up, what is now known as Madagasikara to its residents was left alone in the sea, sealing the island’s isolation. This meant that prehistoric plants and animals developed along their own path with little outside interference on isolated Madagascar. Wildlife holidays to the island are the best way to catch a glimpse of its unique creatures, including the island’s most famous residents, the Lemurs.

Intrepid Lemurs

Although a type of primate that has evolved in the glorious isolation of the island, the Lemur is a later arrival. The island broke away from the rest of the land around 160 million years ago, but zoologists believe that Lemurs first appeared in continental Africa around 62 million years ago. The most popular hypothesis regarding how the animals made it to the island remains biological dispersion due to random rafting events; essentially this means that the animals were carried on matted reeds swept on ocean currents all the way to Madagascar. Wildlife holidays take a special interest in these creatures now that they no longer exist anywhere else on the planet.

Finding Lemurs Today

The creatures can be found in various regions around Madagascar. Wildlife holiday operators are probably the best people to enlist the help of, as they will have close contact with the local populations and know the very best places for spotting these incredible animals. Although the Lemurs are found in numerous places around the island, the local eco-system is carefully protected, and it is strongly discouraged for tourists to head off on their own in search of the famous local wildlife.

A Lemur for Every Occasion

Having had the run of the land to themselves for so many years, Lemurs have spread across the island filling the landscape in every available niche with cheerful abandon. They range in size from the large Indri (which can reach nearly 120 cm when fully stretched out), to the tiny Mouse Lemurs. Lemur-watching excursions take place in the island’s top reserves, including Ranomafana, Andasibe and the spiny forests around Ifaty. One of the popular experiences for those visiting the Lemur populations is the famous ‘dawn chorus’ from the Indri population in Perinet, often described as ‘whale-song in the trees’.

Marissa Ellis-Snow is a freelance nature writer. If you’re looking for a Madagascar wildlife holiday , Naturetrek specialise in expert-led natural history and wildlife tours worldwide. Naturetrek bring over 25 years of experience to a Madagascar wildlife holiday and other spectacular regions on Earth.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Andohahela

One of Madagascar’s most distinctive national parks, Andohahela is (paradoxically) not distinctive for any one type of environment, but rather for the range of environments it contains. Its wide variety of habitats make the park a wonderful place for a Madagascar wildlife holiday if seeing a diverse range of species is your goal. Since the park covers over 760 square kilometres of the Andosy mountain range, there are many different environments within its borders; from rainforests, to a dry, spiny forest kept safe from the oceanic winds by the mountain range. With such a range of habitats, there are plenty of animal species to be seen by eager nature lovers.

Marojejy

Settled in the Sava Region in the north of the island, the Marojejy National Park is centred around the Marojejy Massif, a mountain chain over 2000 metres high. The elevations and rugged terrain of the area creates a unique effect – diverse habitats for animals that change rapidly in relation to a walker’s altitude. A day spent in Marojejy National Park on a Madagascar wildlife holiday will reveal plenty of different species that enjoy a variety of climates. At least 118 species of birds, 148 reptile and amphibian species, and 11 species of Lemurs are known to reside in the Marojejy Massif, meaning there’s an unparalleled opportunity for walkers to see the array of animals the country has to offer.

Masoala

If you’re hoping to see distinctive animals such as the Red Ruffed Lemur, the Madagascar Day Gecko, the Red Owl and Tomato Frog, and even the elusive nocturnal Aye-Aye, then Masoala National park is the place to go for your Madagascar wildlife holiday. With its range of habitats – including rainforest, coastal forest, marshes and mangroves – the Masoala peninsula is exceptionally diverse, and so particularly valued as a national park. It’s a particularly evocative place to visit, and catching a glimpse of rare creatures in such beautiful surroundings can be the experience of a lifetime.

Marissa Ellis-Snow is a freelance nature writer. If you’re looking for a Madagascar wildlife holiday , Naturetrek specialise in expert-led natural history and wildlife tours worldwide. Naturetrek bring over 25 years of experience to a Madagascar wildlife holiday and other spectacular regions on Earth.

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Misleading Mayhem

One of the first things to grasp is that many of the images traditionally associated with the martial arts have their origins in the cinema – be that Hollywood or foreign. Some of the things that these movies frequently major in are violence, injuries, mindless destruction and what may generally be termed, mayhem. This is could be deceptive for residents of Fairfax: martial arts tutors in the area will be quick to point out that these images are inappropriate, and have nothing to do with the purity of these disciplines.

The key word there is discipline and more specifically self-discipline. Perhaps the first objective when you are studying any form is self-mastery. These techniques emphasize the need for spiritual calmness and control – both of your body and your mental/emotional faculties. These mental disciplines are sometimes harder to learn than the physical techniques, but, once mastered they may help you to change your entire outlook on life. That may bring benefits in a number of aspects of your daily existence that are unconnected with the physical side.

The origins

When you start your studying in Fairfax, martial arts will quickly become a bridge in time to other places and cultures. The origins of some techniques and styles are hotly disputed and academics are not necessarily always in agreement. Several of the disciplines have their geographic origins in countries of the Far East such as China, Korea and Japan. In the past, some of these countries were violent and uncertain places where physical attack may have been relatively commonplace. These societies developed certain techniques based around the principles of self-defense, and some of these blended with local forms of physical exercise or even dance, to create the fluidity of movement that is common to several of the modern techniques and styles.

Some of these techniques migrated during the colonial periods of the 18th and 19th centuries, to other parts of the world (e.g. Brazil) where they incorporated local traditions to form new disciplines. Few people would dispute that the skills, when expertly practised, are a thing of beauty that have arisen following centuries if not millennia of human effort.

Study and mastery

If you wish to study in Fairfax, martial arts offer the chance to learn about this histroy as well as a number of other self-defense disciplines – including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Jeet Kune Do, and the Filipino MAs. Today, the emphasis is heavily on practical skills and making rapid demonstrable progress. Selecting an expert instructor is important if you are to avoid picking up bad habits that may be difficult to ‘unlearn’.

If you’re looking to learn Martial Arts, Pat Tray is chief instructor at the Trident Academy of Mixed Martial Arts. It is the premier training and instruction centre for Fairfax martial arts. The Trident Academy is a perfect base to study Jeet Kune Do, Filipino Martial Arts, Combat Submission Wrestling and Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu, bringing together the best martial arts instructors from across the NOVA and DC area.

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Karate and ‘Kung Fu’

One of the most commonly asked questions by martial arts novices runs along the lines of: “What is the difference between Kung Fu and Karate?” The simple answer often quoted is that Kung Fu is Chinese and Karate is Japanese – but that’s over simplified and possibly misleading.

Kung Fu

The term “Kung Fu” was popularized, in the west, by the martial arts films of the 1960s and 1970s and a well-known TV show of the period. Bruce Lee, in particular, became a global star, and even today is often described as a “Kung Fu legend”. In fact, Kung Fu is essentially a term used in different forms of Chinese to describe different things. One use is to describe a philosophy such as a martial art, and even when used traditionally in Chinese to describe martial arts, it might be used regarding a collection of quite different styles and techniques. It’s also interesting to note that Bruce Lee eventually became a little frustrated by the rigid structures and techniques of classic martial arts, and developed his own much more holistic technique that is today referred to as “Jeet Kune Do”. This reflects the fluidity and spontaneity that he believed was essential for an effective defense technique.

Karate

This is essentially a striking (kicking and punching) martial art that, once again, encompasses several different styles – although they are typically referred to casually as Karate. Woodbridge has clubs (typically called Dojos, which roughly translates to “place of the way”) where the techniques are learnt and practised.

Karate had its origin on the island of Okinawa, from where it made its way to mainland Japan and onto the Chinese mainland. Like many forms of martial art, including Jeet Kune Do, Karate is often badly misrepresented in the popular media and portrayed as a very aggressive technique designed to kill and maim. In practise, it often places as much emphasis on mental and spiritual development as it does the physical. Even in terms of combat techniques, responsible tutors within Dojos regard it as a self-defense discipline not something to help make individuals feel “tough” or aggressive. In fact, aggression is seen as a negative trait to be controlled and mastered rather than encouraged.

Studying

The two above disciplines are in fact only two of several that can be learned. Whether you are interested in Jeet Kune Do or Karate, Woodbridge and the surrounding areas may offer opportunities for you. In fact, some centers practice what they call MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) – something that would most certainly dovetail into Bruce Lee’s philosophy of adaptation and assimilation.

So, perhaps there are links between Karate, Woodbridge and Bruce Lee after all!

If you’re looking to learn Martial Arts, Pat Tray is chief instructor at the Trident Academy of Mixed Martial Arts. It is the premier training and instruction centre for martial arts, including Karate, Woodbridge and surrounds. The Trident Academy is a perfect base to study Jeet Kune Do, Filipino Martial Arts, Combat Submission Wrestling and Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu, bringing together the best martial arts instructors from across the NOVA and DC area.

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The Original Couriers

Perhaps the most famous example of a company that devoted itself to the most challenging and strenuous courier jobs of its time was the Pony Express. A fast mail service that crossed the rocky mountains, great plains, and the high sierra from Missouri to California, it was the most direct means of communication between eastern and western America before the invention of the telegraph. Messages were carried between the two final destinations in just ten days, and what makes it even more incredible is that it was entirely done on horseback! Messages would be carried by riders in staged relays, to avoid both horses and riders succumbing to exhaustion. Thankfully, it’s a problem that modern messengers don’t need to worry about to quite the same extent on their own courier jobs!

Why the Rush?

There was a definite need for skilled delivery workers back in 1860, when the Pony Express was first created. After gold was discovered in California in 1848, thousands of prospectors, investors, and businessmen made their way there to take advantage of the opportunities to be found – and they needed a means of quick and reliable communication to various organisations on the other side of the country. The demand for faster mail led to the formation of the Pony Express, with 120 riders, 400 horses, over 180 stations, and many more personnel to see that the courier jobs of the day could be completed. Although many people discounted a ten-day delivery service as impossible, it was nevertheless achieved. Interestingly, one of the founders, Alexander Major, claimed the business would succeed ‘by the help of God’, and so had every employee swear on a bible not to swear, gamble, treat animals cruelly, or act in any way unbecoming of a gentleman.

Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Courier Exchange, the world’s largest neutral trading hub for same day courier jobs in the express freight exchange industry. Over 2,500 transport exchange businesses are networked together through their website, trading jobs and capacity in a safe ‘wholesale’ environment.

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Of these walks, the Abel Tasman National Park Walk is perhaps the most popular for both locals and tourists on walking holidays. New Zealand’s 51 kilometre coastal track is considered a great start for people just discovering the joys of hiking, especially with its mild climate, easy and well-formed terrain and wonderful attractions – including secluded beaches and safe waters. In fact, the trail is so easy to negotiate that it can be walked by even those of moderate fitness.

Time and Tide (And Tour Leaders)

While you could tackle this hike independently, taking the walk with experienced tour leaders is highly recommended. Many tours combine walking and sea kayaking, which offers a more well-rounded experience. As well, travelling with a group allows better choices when it comes to camping, lodge stay and boat stay options. The coastal track includes many tidal crossings that can only be negotiated during low tide– so experienced tour leaders will certainly have more tidal information to better be able to help plan the trek.

One, Three Or Five?

There are many options for hiking the 51-kilometre coastal track depending on length of your walking holidays. New Zealand locals and tourists with limited time often take single-day trips, accessing many of the different attractions by boat from the beaches along the track. The Bark Bay to Torrent Bay route, which boasts beautiful views and challenging pathways as well as a swing bridge crossing Falls River, is one of the most popular trails.

However, for many visitors talking this Great Walk on their walking holidays, New Zealand’s many charms are better appreciated and savoured at their leisure on the three-day and five-day walks. Not only are there more attractions to be seen on these longer walks, the slower pace allows plenty of time for swimming in the spectacular blue waters, fishing and kayaking.

A sense of wonder, surprise and serenity are often the takeaway of visitors, particularly first-timers, who experience the Abel Tasman leg of walking holidays. New Zealand’s varied landscapes are simply breathtaking– golden sand beaches and warm swimming spots on the same trail as glacier peaks and ski slopes. This is walking, New Zealand style.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. For walking holidays New Zealand is a fascinating destination. Join us to experience scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.

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Growing in popularity as a destination for walking holidays, New Zealand and its Great Walks are perfect for the more active holiday-maker who wants to hike the less visited locations and discover amazing new wonders, at every step – without having to sacrifice comfortable accommodations. Awe-inspiring scenery and surreal natural formations are just a few of the things one can expect.

Christchurch

The skyline trek above Christchurch is quite often a starting point for visitors. Canterbury Plains, all the way to the Southern Alps, and the city itself can be seen in 360-degree splendour on this leg of the hike. The volcanic caldera of Lyttelton Harbour can also be seen, and an experienced tour leader will be able to reveal the volcanic history of the area.

Castle Hill

Declared by the Dalai Lama as a “Spiritual Centre of the Universe”, Castle Hill is an interesting stop on walking holidays. New Zealand’s very own limestone Stonehenge, these famous boulders are the rock from which Christ Church Cathedral was hewn.

Craigieburn Range and the Southern Alps

South of Arthur’s Pass is Craigieburn Range, which is accessible from the various ski-fields right next door– Craigieburn Valley, in the heart of the Southern Alps. Although its ridges may often be bare of snow and there are no permanent snow areas, ice here often lasts well into summer. Changing into a full-on ski-worthy area in winter, its narrow chutes, wide open powder bowls and uncrowded slopes make it the perfect place to try some runs.

The Craigieburn Forest Park, also in the area, is another favourite area for visitors on walking holidays. New Zealand’s famous mountain beech forest lends itself well to short walks. Ranging from twenty minutes to four hours in duration, there are many hikes available in the area. There is a thirty-minute nature trail, where one can have a closer look at the forest’s native flora and fauna– beeches in various stages of life, mosses lichens and various insects – or longer treks to Lyndon/Helicopter Hill, Lyndon Saddle or Skifield Basin.

If your idea of this picturesque country was one of simply hobbits, sheep pastures and rolling fields, New Zealand may just surprise you!

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. For walking holidays New Zealand is a fascinating destination. Join us to experience scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.

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In order to make the most of your experience, however, it is important to determine beforehand what kind of holiday you will lean towards when sailing Croatia. Will you be based in the bustling, busy metropolitan centres (Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar)? Or will you go for a more nature-oriented approach and sail down the coast, appreciating the myriad beautiful landscapes on offer? The beautiful Eastern European country allows you to do either. With a little bit of planning, you may even be able to combine both into the perfect Croatian holiday!

In what concerns specific routes, Split and Dubrovnik are popular starting points, as they possess big harbours from which you can embark on your expedition sailing Croatia’s coastline. From these two cities, you can reach the myriad islands littering the coast (some of which remain deserted and unspoiled), as well as other popular, must-see destinations, such as the medieval city of Korcula, the birthplace of Marco Polo. In most of your stops along the way, you will also be able to experience the excellent Dalmatian cuisine first-hand, as well as sample its excellent wines.

The routes starting from Split are a bit more rural, and show you another way of sailing Croatia – namely focusing on its natural beauties rather than its more touristy places. From Split, you can easily access plenty of small villages that will show you the true Croatian way of life, as well as natural motifs of interest such as underwater caves (a must-see if you are a diver).

Alternatively, you can choose Zadar as your starting point for sailing Croatia. Once again, this is a route which focuses a bit more on natural beauty than touristy attractions. It will allow you to visit some more of the country’s surrounding islands, as well as the Kornati National Park which perfectly symbolises all this country has to offer in terms of stunning natural views.

As you can see, then, you will never be short of options when it comes to sailing Croatia. It will only be a matter of choosing a starting point, setting sail, and preparing to enjoy your dream Adriatic holiday!

Naomi Wilson is the Product Development Manager for Activity Breaks, who offer exciting weekend breaks and activity holidays. If you’re looking for a holiday sailing, Croatia is ideal. We specialise in providing flexible holidays sailing Croatia and other fantastic holidays across Europe.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Samobor

A great place to base yourself during adventure holidays in Croatia, Samobor is a charming and picturesque town well known to the citizens of Zagreb, with whom it is a popular getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. One of the first tourist resorts established in the region, the town has facilities dating back to 1810. In its early years Samobor catered to a tourist influx of ‘outdoors’ folk, including anglers and hunters, as well as those looking for good hiking trails. The beauty of Samobor, and its status as an entry point to the gorgeous countryside, has led to it remaining popular for over two centuries – not just with the good people of Zagreb, but with those from across the region.

What Samobor Offers

While the town of Samobor offers many great restaurants and bars, ensuring that you’ll be well stocked up on grub and energised during your adventure holidays in Croatia, the town is probably best known for the stunning natural landscape that surrounds it. One of the most popular destinations in the area is the Zumberak-Samobor Mountains Nature Park. While Samobor is very much still standing, its original co-host, Zumberak, burnt to the ground in 1793. Thankfully, the name was reused for a new village, although those hiking in the area can see the remains of the original village above the new one.

The Nature Park

The landscape is one of the most attractive aspects of adventure holidays in Croatia, and the Zumberak-Samobor Nature Park is absolutely no exception. The Karst plain is riven with steep-sided Karst valleys and dotted with charming forest clearings. The area has a long history, having been inhabited since the Stone Age, and architecture remains in the area dating back to the 13th century. Wildlife in the region includes the European brown bear, and wolves – although you’re pretty unlikely to catch a glimpse of either.

All in all, the Zumberak-Samobor Nature Park represents a fantastic location in which to spend an activity holiday in this beautiful and fertile region.

Naomi Wilson is the Product Development Manager for Activity Breaks, who offer exciting weekend breaks & activity holidays. If you’re looking for adventure holidays in Croatia , Activity Breaks specialise in flexible adventure holidays in Croatia and other fantastic holidays across Europe.

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Organized annually by the local Bike Club, the meeting is held quite close to Faro airport, taxi services easily getting you there from your flight. And while showing up in a taxicab might make you stand out from the crowd, if you enjoy the hobby, you are sure to feel at home straight away.

Not that there would be many chances for your Faro airport taxi to even enter the meeting grounds, at any rate. The sheer mass of people and motorbikes occupying every single acre of the festival grounds means there is precious little space for relatively bulky, four-wheeled vehicles. Besides, a Faro airport taxi would likely pale next to the beautiful – and beautifully maintained – “hogs” the festival-goers proudly ride on. Other than that, expect lots of leather, denim, patches, and, of course, copious amounts of beer! This festival perfectly embodies everything the biker culture stands for, which explains its popularity among members of the ‘brotherhood’, both locally and internationally.

If you are thinking of going – which, after the last paragraph, you probably are – a warning: due to the dimension and status of this meet, both locally and abroad, it is not, like many others, free. However, while the admission price of €40 may seem steep – especially on top of your Faro airport taxi charges – it is well worth it: upon entrance, you get access to food booths, all the concerts and events, official t-shirts and merchandise, and the chance to be included into a draw for a grand prize. And then, of course, there are the bikes – arguably worth the price of admission on their own.

And if you are still in doubt, consider that this festival has, in previous years, been host to some of the major names in classic hard rock – groups such as Gotthard, among others, have played in the FBM stage, to the delight of the headbanging crowd. Coupled with the rest of the attractions on offer, this makes the Faro Bikers’ Meeting an event not to be missed!

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Faro airport taxi , Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

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Use your resources

Assuming you arrive in an early morning flight (it would be important in a venture of this type), your first step would be to catch a taxi from Barcelona airport. This, coupled with your own trusty two feet, will be your best friend in this adventure, as well as your main means of transportation around the city.

On the way from the airport to the centre of town, take in the architecture. Pay particular attention to the buildings devised by Antonio Gaudi, Catalunya’s most renowned architect, known for his particular, nature-inspired style. Once you arrive in the centre, your taxi from Barcelona airport will ideally drop you off at Plaza de Catalunya, where you will be literally a few steps away from the famous Las Ramblas boulevard. A stroll down this iconic road is mandatory, and it can be a good way to stretch your legs after the long airport transfer! Take your time, forget your worries, and witness the artists and mimes at work, before visiting the Christopher Columbus monument in Port Vell, at the end of Las Ramblas.

Assuming you made a deal with the driver of your taxi from Barcelona airport, and hired him for the day (a smart move), this would be the point where he or she would pick you up again. Otherwise, use one of the city’s “regular” cabs, or rely on your feet to get you to your next destination.

This next stage can be used to get a closer look at Gaudi’s buildings, as well as the Parc Guell. Seven of the architect’s works have been declared World Heritage sites by UNESCO, the most famous of them being the still unfinished Sagrada Familia, a church that has been in construction for a whopping three centuries! During this stage, you should also take the chance to visit the Gothic Quarter, the city’s historic Old Town, which is brimming with medieval monuments in the eponymous gothic style. And if you have a bit of time left, why not pop into FC Barcelona’s monumental stadium, Camp Nou – a touristic attraction in its own right – before returning to your taxi?

As you can see, then, it is indeed possible to see a fair bit of the “capital of Catalunya” in as little as a day. Your visit will, of course, be far from thorough or complete, but if you are short on time and would rather see ‘some of it’ than ‘none of it’, grab a taxi from Barcelona airport and accept this challenge!

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a taxi from Barcelona airport, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Similarly, conditions tend to differ somewhat between all the different London conference hotels. While most of them are obviously high-end, some will go that extra mile to ensure conference attendees and organizers get their money’s worth, both in terms of accommodation and conference-room conditions. Below are some of the best examples of this trend to be found in England’s personable capital.

1. The Royal Gardens Hotel
Situated in Kensington High Street, in one of the most famous areas of London, conference hotels do not come much better than the Royal Gardens. There are 396 rooms and the meeting rooms can accommodate up to 550 delegates, making this hotel a prime choice for larger events. The Royal Gardens is also the venue of choice for international sports conferences, having officially hosted the 1966 World Cup, the 1999 cricket cup and the 2004 ICC Championship, amongst other sports-related events.

2. The Lancaster
Situated in the district of the same name, within close proximity of many tourist attractions, the Lancaster is one of the largest London conference hotels. It can accommodate up to 3.000 delegates per event, and possesses a dedicated conference centre, complete with break areas and private rooms. The conference halls themselves can also be customized to suit the organizer’s needs, making this one of the prime venues for conferences in the City.

3. Hilton London Metropole
Much like the Lancaster, the Hilton London Metropole is one of the biggest London conference hotels. In fact, it is one of the largest hotels in Europe! Accommodating up to 3.000 delegates, the hotel possesses forty different conference rooms and meeting spaces, in a total of 44.000 feet. In addition to this, there are over 25.000 square feet of exhibition room! The hotel’s kitchens can cater to up to 1.000 delegates throughout its five restaurants and bars.

As you can see, then, the spaces described above represent the highest standard in London conference hotels. If you are thinking of organizing an event in the City, make sure you book one of them as soon as possible, since, as noted above, they tend to get booked up rather quickly. Your attendees and delegates will undoubtedly benefit!

Looking for London conference hotels? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for Worldhotels, a company offering the best New York conference rooms and a selection of unique four and five star hotels around the world.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Why Pick London?

It’s not just the huge choice that makes London conference hotels so popular. The city might have quite a high cost of living, but as a meeting and event destination, it offers great value for money. The city has a dedicated Event Solutions team who help organisers of prospective events arrange everything they need, through impartial advice. When it comes to accommodation, travel experts suggest that prices have been falling in London over the past half decade – although recent visitors might find this hard to believe. With economic instability around the world, the exchange rate with the pound can actually be very favourable, as long as you come from the right part of the world!

Making Financial Sense

Recently introduced tax measures also mean that companies can claim back up to 20% of the amount they spend on accommodation as well as meeting and conferencing facilities. This makes it even more attractive for businesses to make use of London conference hotels when it comes to organising big events. If you can’t afford the extravagance of a top hotel for your event, then more modest but still perfectly adequate accommodation is available in the capital’s many student halls of residence during the holiday period.

Exploring the City

Another of the compelling reasons for choosing London conference hotels is the incredible amount of excursions and entertainment that visitors can find in the city. As well as being a vibrant and exciting world city, it’s also home to a huge number of parks and green spaces, allowing you to enjoy some proper relaxation away from the conference room. There are also dining options reflecting almost every type of cuisine in the world. The city is home to nearly 50 Michelin-starred restaurants and has fast food available on pretty much every street for those who are looking for something more convenient.

Looking for London conference hotels ? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for Worldhotels, a company offering the best London conference hotels and a selection of unique four and five star hotels around the world.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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While you are in the city enjoying a holiday or working trip, you should take the time to relax and visit some of the best restaurants it has to offer. While Australia is not included in the area covered by the Michelin guide, there is no doubt that if it were it would have its fair share of stars. So why not have your concierge book you a table at Tetsuya’s, Sepia, or Marque?

Tetsuya’s — Located on Kent Street in the heart of Sydney, 5 star hotel concierges will likely recommend this as the place to go if you are looking for a unique and luxurious place to dine. The restaurant’s ambience is serene and calming, but their fusion style of cooking is anything but. The mixing of Japanese culinary philosophy and French techniques creates a menu that reads like an homage to fresh seafood treated with care and respect. Dishes like salad of Hiramasa kingfish with blackbean and orange, or unpasteurised ocean trout caviar, highlight the best ingredients. A dedicated sommelier helps you to choose the best wine to accompany these culinary works of art. A treat for your palate!

Sepia — Have your driver pick you up at your Sydney 5 star hotel and ferry you the short drive to the well-renowned Sepia. Located on Sussex Street, Sepia focuses on using the best local ingredients with influences from its northern neighbours in Japan. Every dish served at Sepia will have your taste buds (and your eyes) tantalised by the attention to textures and contrasts. These complement the tastes on a menu that moves from sushi to venison and lamb, and follows with desserts, cheeses, coffees and teas. The fabulous ‘degustation’ menu at Sepia is one that will give you a taste of a variety of dishes without having to choose just one.

Marque — Outside of the city lies the renowned restaurant Marque. Don’t let the location put you off; your Sydney, 5 star hotel concierges can not only book you a table, they can organise a driver to get you there in style. When you arrive at Sydney’s 2012 ‘Restaurant of the Year’, you will be greeted by a friendly and efficient staff and have the option to order such luxurious cuisine as a foie gras and truffle oil starter, followed by smoked duck egg with charred cherry, or pepper & leek ash duck liver with sea blight & quinoa. The desserts are equally as adventurous with such delights as coffee & parsley parfait. Match each course with a selection from Marque’s international wine menu to round out a perfect evening of dining in Sydney.

Looking for a Sydney 5 star hotel? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for Worldhotels, a company offering the best rooms in a Sydney 5 star hotel and a selection of unique four and five star hotels around the world.

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Roman Forum — It would be almost impossible to spend more than a night in a luxury hotel in Rome and miss out on seeing the Roman Forum, and making the effort to visit the site is well worthwhile. As you approach the Colosseum, take a detour to the Forum instead, located just across the way, where you can wander through the ancient ruins and enjoy the early morning sun before it gets too hot. In ancient times, this was the centre of political and city life, and remained such, with a few exceptions, until the fall of the Western Roman Empire. While here, be sure to seek out the 8th century B.C. former royal palace, the Regia, and the Complex of Vestal Virgins.

The Mouth of Truth — If you’ve ever wanted to test your companion’s ability to tell the truth, then you should have a driver pick you up at your luxury hotel in Rome and take you to the La Bocca della Verità, located in the portico of the Santa Maria in Cosmedin. Here, the face-like image of the round stone is said to bite off your hand if you tell a lie while your hand is in its mouth! While this may or may not be true, this face, considered to be either a 1st century fountain or perhaps a man-hole cover, is worth seeing to give it a go – if you dare.

Appian Way — Staying a few nights at a luxury hotel in Rome is a great way to prepare to walk a bit of the Appian Way. Built during the Samnite Wars and named after the Roman censor, Appius Claudius Caecus, to connect Rome to Brindisi in 321 B.C., this road is a feat of engineering that begins in the heart of the affluent Prati district of Rome. While you are in the city, you should go to its beginning and walk for a bit, strolling past the Porta Appia, the Catacomb of Callixtus, and the Roman baths of Capo di Bove. And, if you are interested in travelling along more of the Appian Way, then you can book tours, walk, or ride a moped or a bike as far as you wish, since there are several stops along the way and the scenery is simply stunning.

If you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Rome Worldhotels has a wonderful selection. Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for Worldhotels, a company offering the best choice for a luxury hotel in Rome and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world.

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The Beginnings

The Crystal Palace was originally built to house the Great Exhibition of 1851, with over 900,000 square feet of exhibition space entirely within a building made mainly of glass! Recent developments in 1848 meant that the new ‘cast plate’ method of making glass could provide large, strong sheets of glass suitable for inclusion in a building design – even one as radical for the time as the Crystal Palace. At the time, it was the largest amount of glass ever seen in a building, and it astonished onlookers. In 1851, if you’d been staying at a Hyde Park hotel, London residents would likely have proudly pointed you in the Crystal Palace’s direction – it was a talking point across the whole nation.

Popular Culture

While the building was originally only intended as an exhibition hall, it soon became known as an incredible feature in its own right – even the name Crystal Palace itself was coined by the ‘Punch’ magazine. After the exhibition had concluded, however, the building was moved to a park in Penge Common, in an affluent area of London called Sydenham Hill. The association of the name was so strong, however, that the area soon came to be called Crystal Palace itself. This effect can even be seen by modern day travelers staying in a Hyde Park hotel – London still features buildings such as the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre.

The End

While the legacy of the Crystal Palace lives on, unfortunately the building itself does not. In 1936, a small office fire begun after an explosion in the women’s cloakroom, and it quickly spread across the dry old timber flooring of the building. Although over 89 fire engines and 400 firemen arrived, the fire spread so fiercely and so swiftly that they were unable to extinguish it. The blaze was reported as being visible from eight counties. It would have been a spectacular sight for those staying in a Hyde Park hotel – London reported over 100,000 spectators who watched the palace’s final hours. Amongst them was Winston Churchill, who remarked the building burning down signified ‘the end of an age.’

Looking for a Hyde Park hotel, London? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for Worldhotels, a company offering the best rooms at Hyde Park hotels, London and a selection of unique four and five star hotels around the world.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Coal Pot — One of the benefits to planning St Lucia honeymoons is the availability of amazing food. Located on the waterfront at Vigie Marin, the Coal Pot Restaurant was opened in 1968 and is one of the premiere restaurants on the island. Fresh from the French Alps when he arrived over 14 years ago, chef Xavier was able to win ‘best restaurant of the year’ at both his former restaurant, and again with The Coal Pot. The Coal Pot’s philosophy is about serving fresh food, well prepared, and using local ingredients to create an amazing menu with a mix of French and Caribbean influences. But be sure to book, this delightful little place only has 10 tables and it is well renowned throughout the island.

The Edge — When the 2003 Caribbean chef of the year, Swede Bobo Bergström, who was formerly the chef at Windjammer Landing and the famous Operakallaren in Stockholm, decided to bring his interesting “Eurobbean” style of cooking to a new restaurant located in the Harmony Suites Hotel, it was sure to be a hit among those on St Lucia honeymoons. With a background in the cuisine of Europe and the fresh produce of the Caribbean, it is no wonder that Bergström has accumulated a number of prestigious awards. While in his restaurant, you should take note of the attention to detail that each dish requires in achieving the perfect balance of flavours and spice that he is known for.

Rainforest Hideaway — Located on the pretty north shore of Marigot Bay, Rainforest Hideaway was designed and built in 2004 with the plan to bring true fusion cuisine to the island. The resulting efforts of Chef Jim have brought forth a menu that is small but perfectly formed, with items that provide a mix of land and seagoing options. One of the highlights of the restaurant for those on St Lucia honeymoons is the romantic arrival, where you are whisked to the location by a small ferry and greeted on the dock with champagne before you dine.

Ross Stevenson is the General Manager of Cap Maison. With a reputation as the foremost luxury hotel on St Lucia, they provide a wide selection of services for St Lucia honeymoons and options for couples who want to enjoy a blissful Caribbean experience.

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Kite Surfing — Also known as kiteboarding, this sport is not for the faint hearted! It has been described as a combination of surfing, paragliding, wakeboarding, and even gymnastics. If you are looking to spice up those St Lucia honeymoons, this is certainly one way to get the blood pumping. You will learn how to start off on the kite and hold on as it moves you across the surface of the water. More experienced kitesurfers can jump and leap high into the air, performing the tricks only seasoned professionals can! Trying out kitesurfing at Vieux Fort is a fun and different way to spend a day at the beach. Take lessons if you are unsure of what you are getting yourself into, and get ready for a fun filled day that is definitely beyond the normal.

Diving — One of the first things you will notice on your St Lucia honeymoons, is that the waters off the coast of this stunningly beautiful island are a magnificent shade of blue. They are ideal for diving beneath the surface to explore what are arguably some of the most abundant waters in the entire Caribbean. The west coast of the island, facing the Caribbean Sea, boasts the best scuba diving sites. The Marine Reserve of Soufrière offers perfectly clear water and a chance to get up close and personal to the local corals and shells in the reefs right off the coast; but be sure to leave the waters just as you found them, as it is forbidden to take home bits of reef and shells as souvenirs.

Hiking — While many couples on St Lucia honeymoons will be too preoccupied with lying on the beaches and being pampered to really consider the idea of walking around the island, it actually offers a variety of hiking trails through the interior and coast that will excite nature lovers. With the lush rainforest interior, the island is criss-crossed with paths that provide excellent trips through the heart of the island. If you want an easy stroll go for the Union Nature Trail and Mini-Zoo; if you are looking for something with a bit more of a challenge, but still rather doable, head for the Forestiere Rainforest Trail or the Millet Bird Sanctuary Trail. And, for those who really want a challenge, be sure to seek out the hardest trail – the Enbas Saut Waterfalls Trail, which is not only the most difficult, but one of the most scenic as well.

Ross Stevenson is the General Manager of Cap Maison. With a reputation as the foremost luxury hotel on St Lucia, they provide a wide selection of services for St Lucia honeymoons and options for couples who want to enjoy a blissful Caribbean experience.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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While on St Lucia, honeymoons can be filled with a variety of lounging and relaxing activities along the amazing coastline of the island, which is juxtaposed against the rising rainforest mountains of the interior. But to spend all of your time on the beach and not take advantage of the stunning waters and natural coral reefs that surround the island is something you should not even entertain during your stay! While on the island, why not get under the surface of the water and scuba dive in some of the most amazing places such as: Anse Chastanet, Anse La Raye, and the Lesleen M Shipwreck.

Anse Chastanet — In what is now a protected marine park off the coast, you can dive in the waters that offer some of the most dramatic underwater scenes in the southwest of the island. St Lucia honeymoons will be all the more enjoyable for a trip to dive on these reefs that can be accessed by swimming in directly from the beach. The unique coral wall here is located only about 25 feet down, and the further out you go, the deeper the coral seems to fall away. The reef drops down to about 140 feet below and continues on until it reaches the Grand Caille, near the harbour of Soufriere.

Anse La Raye — For some of the best wall and drift dives on St Lucia, honeymoons for the underwater enthusiasts should allow time to visit Anse La Raye, where huge boulders and an interesting marine life can introduce you to an entirely new world. While here, swim down about fifty feet to see the Anse La Raye Coral Gardens where the sponges and hard and soft corals are especially worth noting.

Lesleen M Shipwreck — If you are searching for a bit more adventure while spending time underwater near St Lucia, honeymoons are the perfect opportunity to go and explore the Lesleen M Shipwreck. Located north of the Pitons and just south of Marigot Bay, this freighter was purposely sunk in 1985 in order to help create an artificial coral reef. The result is an amazing dive that is exceptionally picturesque, with the wheelhouse at a mere 13 metres below the surface. There is an excellent swimthrough along the corridors of the ship that remain open. You feel like you are the first person to unearth and explore this long-dead ship, with extra touches like the abandoned suitcase in the lower engine room. While in and around the ship you can look for marine life that thrives in such areas, like the eels that supposedly live in the bottom of the passageways.

Ross Stevenson is the General Manager of Cap Maison. With a reputation as the foremost luxury hotel on St Lucia, they provide a wide selection of services for St Lucia honeymoons and options for couples who want to enjoy a blissful Caribbean experience.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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The Union Nature Trail and Mini Zoo — In 1960, part of the Research Station – about a 15-minute drive from the city of Castries – was turned into a nursery by the Forest Division. Later they added a garden trail, hillside trail, and a medicinal garden that will delight couples on their St Lucia honeymoons. The Union Nature Trail goes through a bit of the dry forest, which is famous for bird watching. Considered a meshing of endangered species, medicinal plants and local fruits, the mini zoo at the heart of the reserve is the perfect culmination of a pleasant and easy walk.

The Edmund Forest Reserve — St Lucia honeymoons should be about doing whatever it is you feel like doing and enjoying yourself, and if you are fond of beautiful scenery, like to hike, and have a little bit of experience, then you should head to the Edmund Forest Reserve and walk the moderately difficult trails there. Located in the heart of the island, the Forest Reserve trail is roughly a seven-mile long path that is mostly flat, and goes though the rain forest. The main part of the trail goes through the Quilesse Forest Reserve and will eventually break out of the cover of the trees to give you a view of the Caribbean Sea and the island’s highest peak, Mt. Gimie.

The Enbas Saut Waterfalls Trail — For hardcore hikers on their St Lucia honeymoons, the best place to head on the island is inland towards the Enbas Saut Waterfalls Trail. Located at the foot of Mt. Gimie, about six kilometres east of Soufriere with many steps involved, this four-kilometre hike is quite popular with energetic visitors. The atmosphere of the hike is remote, wild, and amazingly fresh and boasts two waterfalls and pools at the head of the Troumassee River, where you can even hop in for a quick swim. The trail’s combination of rainforest, cloud forest, and elfin woodlands enable the perfect opportunity for you to get the chance to see some of the famous local wildlife – such as the St Lucia Parrot, the Blue Hooded Euphonia, and the Mountain Whistler.

Ross Stevenson is the General Manager of Cap Maison. With a reputation as the foremost luxury hotel on St Lucia, they provide a wide selection of services for St Lucia honeymoons and options for couples who want to enjoy a blissful Caribbean experience.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Here are three of the most interesting if you want to learn a new and unusual martial art.

1. Jeet Kun Do

This martial art was created by Bruce Lee, and could be a good alternative for anyone who is looking into something slightly different from karate. Woodbridge residents may well want to give this a go, and if they do then they will be learning one of the most fascinating martial arts around.

Bruce Lee, the famous film star and martial art master, invented his own martial art when he became frustrated by others being too restrictive. His concern was that many other styles were too rigid and prevented people from reacting to any situation as a result. Based on the assumption that offense is the best defense, he devised Jeet Kun Do, which is not a fixed style like others, and anyone learning this martial art will learn a wide range of moves to prepare them for any situation.

2. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Fast and exciting, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a modern martial art that is another popular option for people who are looking for something a bit different from karate. Woodbridge provides some options for learning this, and it is a fantastic option for self-defense. The key elements of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu involve ground fighting and grappling, and the whole concept of this is that a smaller person can defend themselves against someone larger and stronger by using the right techniques. Devised at the start of the 20th century, it only started to get real prominence in 1990s and is now one of the most popular martial arts, ideal for self-defense or to build fitness and strength.

3. Muay Thai

Muay Thai, also known as Thai Boxing, is very popular because it is relatively easy to learn. It is primarily a sport that is an excellent way to keep fit, and the concept is that you are effectively turning your body into a weapon. Beginners typically see a quick progression which makes it even more enjoyable. It makes use of a range of clinching techniques, as well as striking with elbows, kicks, punches and knees. It is also an exciting spectacle to watch, and is, in fact, the national sport of Thailand.

If you are interested in any of the above martial arts, instead of just learning standard karate, Woodbridge has a range of options if you live in this area. Consider the above three and do some more research on them to find out which one is right for you. You may even want to visit a center where they are practised to see them live which may help you decide which one to explore further.

If you’re looking to learn Martial Arts, Pat Tray is chief instructor at the Trident Academy of Mixed Martial Arts. It is the premier training and instruction centre for martial arts, including Karate, Woodbridge and surrounds. The Trident Academy is a perfect base to study Jeet Kune Do, Filipino Martial Arts, Combat Submission Wrestling and Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu, bringing together the best martial arts instructors from across the NOVA and DC area.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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1. Self-Confidence

One of the key benefits of starting up a martial art is to gain self-confidence. Whether learning a slightly more unusual martial art, or something more common like karate, Woodbridge students can always expect to gain in self-confidence. The focus on constantly improving and working at your skills leads to a positive frame of mind where you always want to do your best, and this spreads into other areas of your life so that soon everything that you do will be inspired by this mentality.

2. Self-Defense

If you really want to learn self-defense then a martial art is one of the best ways to go about this. There are many to choose from, and some of them may be more effective than others for different situations. One discipline that comes up a lot is karate. Woodbridge training centers may provide instruction in this Japanese self-defense, but there are also many other martial arts which also focus on self-defense, all of which are slightly different.

3. New Challenge

There is nothing more challenging than learning a new martial art, and once you find one that you enjoy you will find that it challenges you for the rest of your life. There is always the opportunity to improve, no matter what level you are at, and this is a motivating factor of any martial art.

4. Keep Fit

If you just want to get fit, but do not like the sound of going to the gym every week, then martial arts provide a more interesting way to burn off calories and build body strength. Once you start your training then in no time at all you will start to feel the benefits; and if you keep going, you will find that martial arts are a great way to get fit without even realizing you are doing so.

5. Discipline

Learning the value of discipline is one thing that all martial arts teach. They involve a lot of mental exertion as well as physical, and this is very good for developing discipline. Martial arts are not about violence, but about preventing violence and staying out of dangerous situations, and these lessons can be very useful for people who lack self-control.

Find Out More

If you like the sound of the above benefits then now could be a great time to start getting trained up in the martial art of your choice. There are many to choose from, whether you are looking for something a bit different or something more standard like karate. Woodbridge has a number of options for martial arts training, including Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Jeet Kune Do and more, so choose the one which interests you and go from there.

If you’re looking to learn Martial Arts, Pat Tray is chief instructor at the Trident Academy of Mixed Martial Arts. It is the premier training and instruction centre for martial arts, including Karate, Woodbridge and surrounds. The Trident Academy is a perfect base to study Jeet Kune Do, Filipino Martial Arts, Combat Submission Wrestling and Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu, bringing together the best martial arts instructors from across the NOVA and DC area.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

The Archaeological Museum in Florence

Otherwise known as the National Archaeological Museum, this is one of the top must see museums in all of Tuscany. Villas should be booked with this in mind, so you don’t have to journey too far to come and see it. It was originally opened in 1888 and it features some amazing artefacts, including a complete Egyptian section that is second only to the collection in Turin. You can visit the Archaeological Museum and be whisked back to prehistory, to discover the masterpieces herein.

The Museo Civico in Siena

Translated as the Civic Museum in Siena, this is another delightful highlight of Tuscany. Villas in the region will make it easy to reach the centre of Siena to see a history of art that is indicative of Siena itself. Don’t miss the frescos that can be found in the Sala del Mappamondo among other locations. You will find the entrance to the Museo Civico in the Palazzo Pubblico, which is, in itself, a stunning sight.

The Museo di San Marco

You can visit museums with a very interesting past in Tuscany. Villas can be booked on the outskirts of the Renaissance city of Florence where you can visit the Museo di San Marco. The museum itself once housed a convent, and it is now home to one of the most impressive sacred art collections in the city. It originally opened in 1869, but its history as a convent goes back a lot further than this.

The Uffizi Gallery

Some may regard this as an art gallery rather than a museum, but it is strictly the latter as well as the former. There is much to see here, which is why it is one of the most renowned in Italy. There are two main wings separated by a small courtyard, with one end facing the River Arno. There is a jaw dropping selection of paintings to be viewed here, including The Birth of Venus by Botticelli, The Adoration of the Magi by Leonardo da Vinci, Bacchus by Caravaggio and the Doni Tondo by Michelangelo. You will also be able to see sculptures dotted around the museum as you wander around.

This region undoubtedly holds a huge place in history and has contributed greatly to the world of art. No matter where you are staying in the region you will never be far from a handful of museums to while away an afternoon in.

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialise in finding the perfect Tuscany villas as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Each property is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Indeed, if you are planning on a beach holiday in Tuscany, villas are available very close to the coastline. Any of the following suggestions will provide the perfect location for a beach holiday; all you have to do is decide which one to opt for.

Versilia

The most important thing about a good beach is that it is big enough to cope with everyone coming to Tuscany. Villas in the vicinity will be empty in the mornings as everyone heads down to this fine sandy beach, but there will still be room for all! At lunchtime, you can sample one of the delightful fish dishes that Versilia is famous for, served, of course, with a fine Tuscan wine.

Grosseto

It may take a while to dig up the beaches – figuratively speaking of course – but they are there, nestled in among the pine trees. Grosseto is a wonderful choice for a beach holiday, not least because it offers mouthwatering foods as well as a stunning beach front. Think olives and tomatoes perfectly ripened by the sun, and you’ll have an idea of the foods you can enjoy for dinner when you have spent all day on Grosseto’s finest beaches.

Viareggio

This is a stunning beach and it provides a wide range of activities. It is also the biggest town in Tuscany to offer a beach, so if you’re looking for an all round place to visit in Tuscany, villas near here will provide the perfect solution. You can also enjoy the seafood and wander along the promenade once the sun goes down and it is time to find somewhere to enjoy a nice flavoursome dinner.

San Vincenzo

San Vincenzo has a lot to offer to any visitor, but top of the list must surely be the 10-kilometre stretch of gorgeous white sand. This is a marvellous place to stay for your beach holiday, and it also offers an opportunity to delve into the history of the location, which harks back to prehistoric times.

Tirrenia

A holder of the prestigious Blue Flag award, Tirrenia is bang in the middle of the coastline of Tuscany. You can head to the beaches and relax to top up your tan, but there are also plenty of opportunities to get involved with water sports such as sailing and swimming. The beach is backed by pine woodlands that are ideal for engaging in lots of other activities, including hiking and cycling. This is an ideal resort and beach area for families.

As you can see you are spoilt for choice when you head to the region for a beach based holiday. Whatever beach you choose to put your towel down on, you will be assured of a wonderful time.

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialise in finding the perfect Tuscany villas as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Each property is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Here are four destinations that should be worthy of any trip to Tuscany.

Florence

Otherwise known by the beautiful name of Firenze, Florence is a must see attraction in Tuscany. Villas can be found close to this city, which is the capital of Tuscany itself. It is packed with sights and sounds and you can easily spend several days here alone. Don’t miss Florence Cathedral with its massive dome, or the Boboli Gardens, which can be found tucked away behind the Pitti Palace. They are well worth looking out for. If you want to take in some of the atmosphere of Florence, be sure to frequent squares such as the Piazza della Repubblica.

Chianti

A holiday to this renowned wine region would not be complete without a visit to Chianti. This is the area in which many fine wines originate in Tuscany. Villas and fine wines – now there is a combination worth enjoying, so be sure to explore the region carefully and locate your desired bottle of Chianti (or two!). A true Chianti must have a minimum of 80% content from Sangiovese grapes.

Island of Elba

You’ll need to go off the coast of Tuscany to visit this island, but the trip is well worth it. It is sometimes forgotten due to it being off the mainland, but it would surely be a sin to miss it. It is just a little over six miles away from the mainland itself, so it is possible to travel over for just a day or two during a longer stay in Tuscany. Villas around the coast will put you near to the ferry crossing from Piombino to Elba’s port of Porto Ferraio. This crossing takes just one hour and allows you access to the many delightful beaches that Elba has to share.

Siena

When you discover that the city of Siena is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site you will see why you simply must visit it during any trip to Tuscany. It benefits from having many incredible sights, not least the intricately decorated exterior of the Cathedral of Siena. Old Siena has a jumble of streets that are fascinating to walk down and explore, as is the historic centre of the city itself. If you visit in either July or August you may be there on the day the Palio di Siena is run, a controversial race featuring horses and riders. This is just one of the many reasons why Siena is well known worldwide.

Where will you end up?

This region benefits from having many wonderful places to explore. Even if you do nothing else other than visit the four suggestions made above, you will see enough to make a memorable holiday.

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialise in finding the perfect Tuscany villas as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Each property is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Beginnings

The earliest known documents pertaining to a Chianti wine were discovered from the 13th century, when the practice of viticulture was known to be flourishing in the mountains around Florence. Records made in 1398 note that the first recorded vintage was a white wine – meaning those sampling a glass or two in their Chianti villa rental are engaging in a long tradition. It wasn’t until 1716, however, that the Grand Duke of Tuscany issued an edict that the three villages of the ‘Lega del Chianti’ would be the only officially recognized producers of the wine – an edict which lasted up until the 1930’s when the Italian government broadened the scope of the area.

Chianti Ampelography

By the 18th century, Chianti was widely recognised as a red wine – and it may be much more familiar to those staying in a Chianti villa rental in this form! However, there’s plenty available for the dedicated ampelographer to discover in the writings of Cosimo Villifranchi, an Italian writer who practised his trade in the same time period. It was through his writings that avid scholars could discover the types of grape that were planted in the region – Mammolo, Marzemino, and Canaiolo.

Of these, Canaiolo was likely the most dominant grape used in the region’s wines, and would likely have been the one most associated with the local vintages of the time. Part of this success may be attributable to the ‘governo’ winemaking techniques of the time, which often had their best results with Canaiolo grapes. Those exploring the countryside from their Chianti villa rental will be able to see many vineyards descended from the regions ancient Canaiolo plants.

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialise in finding the perfect Chianti villa rental as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Each Chianti villa rental is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

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Basilica of San Lorenzo — Located on the square of the same name, this church is easy to get to from most places in Tuscany. Villas on the outskirts of the city will give you an easy route to get into the Central Market, and from there it is just a block or two away. As the oldest church in Florence, San Lorenzo was consecrated in 393 A.D. by S. Ambrogio. For three hundred years, the church served as the city’s cathedral before the Bishop’s seat was transferred to Santa Reparata. Inside, there are a plethora of works of art from masters that must not be missed – such as Michelangelo, Bronzino, Lippi, and Verrocchio.

Santissima Annunziata — The church located in the Piazza de Santissima Annunziata is another that is worth seeing before you leave the city and head back out into the beautiful landscape of Tuscany. Villas will give you the perfect way to get away from the other tourists and enjoy the quiet that you will want to extend after visiting the beautiful, but busy, Santissima Annunziata. Founded in 1250 by the original members of the Servite order, one of them was painting an image of the Annunciation, but he left it because he felt he could never create something as beautiful as he needed to depict. As the story goes, one night as he slept, an angel came and contemplated the painting, and it was placed in the church and became one of its most venerated pieces of art.

San Miniato al Monte — The church of San Miniato, or San Miniato on the mountain, is one of the highest churches in all of Florence. Often considered one of the most beautiful churches in Tuscany, its geometrical, marble façade is a beacon from the top of the hill right above the Piazza Michelangelo. You can sit on the steps and see the sun set over the River Arno and the five main bridges that cross the river in the centre of the city. Wherever you are in Tuscany, villas will grant you easy access to the top of the Piazza, where from there it is only a short walk up to San Miniato al Monte. From that elevation, Florence is even more beautiful.

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialise in finding the perfect Tuscany villas as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Each property is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

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Mugello Valley

The Mugello valley lies to the north of Florence, and with its old stone villages and elegant cypresses is a delight to explore – as well as being a real treat for anyone interested in the history of Tuscany. Villas near Florence allow their occupants to access a great deal of history in the city itself – but they are also well-placed for those who want to venture further afield, with rewarding results. Hidden away in the Mugello valley are a number of Medici castles, where those with an interest in the famous family can explore their roots. This is also a wonderful area to walk in, with winding roads and paths through tranquil countryside and delicious local food cooked fresh in its trattorias.

San Lorenzo Abbey

Nestled in the Lanzo valley, not far from the village of Civitella Marittima, this old abbey and surrounding lands is one of the loveliest lesser-known places to walk in Tuscany. Villas are great places to launch daytrips from, so wherever you are staying you will be able to drive here. Dating from around the 11th century, the abbey is thought to have been commissioned by the Ardengheschi, an important Sienese family. It was certainly patronised by them, which meant that – picturesque as it may look today – it was once one of the most powerful monasteries in the region. Its power steadily declined over the centuries, however, and local history tells of a succession of corrupt and cruel abbots. Unsurprisingly, the abbey has amassed a good deal of folklore, with plenty of grisly tales and ghost stories surrounding it. It’s hard to be frightened on a day-time visit, however, as you take the steep path down into the valley, past the old public fountains and down to the river.

Just Walk!

Your guidebook will doubtless be packed with things to see and do, but in Tuscany, villas and famous tourist attractions are only part of the picture; some of the best days can simply be spent rambling through idyllic landscapes. To really get off the beaten track, a short drive or brisk walk from any villa should bring you to a relatively unknown (to tourists, at least) stretch of countryside – just be sure to take a map as a precaution against getting lost!

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialise in finding the perfect Tuscany villas as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Each property is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

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See: The Uffizi Gallery

Art lovers will already have this on their itinerary, but it still warrants a mention as one of the most important attractions in Tuscany. Villas have the advantage of letting you set your own schedule, so go early to beat the worst of the crowds and enjoy this sumptuous collection of works from the Italian masters. The highlight for many is Botticelli’s Nascita di Venere (The Birth of Venus), in which the goddess Venus rises from the sea in a giant clamshell – but there are plenty of lesser-known gems too.

Shop: Ponte Vecchio

One of the city’s most beautiful sights is also one of its most popular shopping spots. The Ponte Vecchio bridge spans the river Arno; it is at once a superb subject for photographers and a great place to window-shop – or buy – at the city’s best gold and jewellery shops. As you might imagine, it can get very crowded, but the vibrant cosmopolitan air is worth the hustle and bustle.

Explore: The Markets

For a very different shopping experience, head to the Mercato Centrale, abundant both in ambience and mouth-watering produce. Many visitors choose, when staying in Tuscany, villas that are self-catered, and this is the place to stock up on your Italian kitchen essentials and lunch-time treats. Nearby, you’ll find the leather market next to the San Lorenzo Church, which is worth a wander for its atmosphere and the chance to pick up some interesting souvenirs.

Taste: Gelato

The gelato in Florence is considered by some to be the best in Italy. It is as visually impressive as it is delicious – the mountains of ice cream crowned with all sorts of appetising toppings feature in many a holiday photo album. With a rainbow of flavours to choose from, you might want to arm yourself with some gelato-specific vocabulary before you go!

Relax: Boboli Gardens

After seeing the sights, you might want somewhere peaceful to unwind and simply enjoy the warm sun of Tuscany. Villas are, of course, a great place to do so, but there are also places in town where visitors can catch their breath between shopping and sightseeing sessions – chief among them being the Boboli Gardens, located behind the Pitti Palace. With wide swathes of greenery, winding paths, tranquil ponds and beautiful sculptures, this is the perfect place for a moment of reflection or a lazy picnic lunch.

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialise in finding the perfect Tuscany villas as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Each property is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Historic Centre of Florence - If you are interested in the history of art and the Renaissance, you should certainly plan a holiday to Tuscany. Villas here provide simple access into the capital of the area, Florence. Situated around the banks of the Arno River, Florence was founded in 59 BC as a Roman colony known as Florentia, but came to prominence, as we know it, during the 14th and 15th centuries. The city centre was granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1982. A wander around the historic city centre will immerse you in the combined history and culture of the area. Be sure to see the Santa Maria del Fiore (built in the 13th century), the Uffizi Gallery, Church of Santa Croce, and the Pitti Palace – which feature works by the great artists of that period such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael.

Historic Centre of Siena - As an outstanding example of a medieval city, Siena is an ideal place to visit while on a holiday to Tuscany. Villas dot the landscape around the city and make it perfect for a day trip. The historic centre of the city is marked by seven kilometres of ramparts that served to help the city preserve its medieval look and provide protection from their nearby rivals in Florence. The historic city centre was granted UNESCO World Heritage Status in 1995, and a trip there will highlight the way the whole of the city was built around the Piazza del Campo to blend into the surrounding landscape.

The Piazza del Duomo in Pisa - Everyone who knows anything about Italy will know of this small town in Tuscany. Villas near the town will give you the peace and luxury of staying in your own place, while making a trip in to see the structures in the Piazza del Duomo an easy afternoon journey. When you go into the heart of Pisa, you cannot help but see the famed Leaning Tower, but this is only one of the four masterpieces of medieval architecture that stand in the piazza and have become known the world over. If you can tear your eyes away from the iconic shape of the Leaning Tower, be sure to visit the Duomo, the Cemetery, and the Baptistery, all of which were influential in the art of Italy from the 11th to the 14th centuries. The Piazza del Duomo was granted UNESCO World Heritage Status in 1987.

Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialise in finding the perfect Tuscany villas as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Each property is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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The Choquequirao Trail

One of the top walks in Peru, the name for this trail is the Quechua word for Cradle of Gold. There is a lot of interest in promoting this trail, not least from the French government initiative that has played a strong role in promoting it. This really is a walk for experienced hikers, taking place over an eight day trek from Cuzco over the rugged Vilcabamba Mountains as they stretch up to four and a half kilometres into the sky. The EU funding is contributing to the promotion of this trail as the new Machu Picchu, hopefully aiding the recovery of the more established site.

The Pre-Inca Trail

Another of the great walks in Peru, this route is a fine way of seeing some of the older historical sites of the country. This trail leads walkers inland from Cajamarca on the northern coast, taking ramblers through Chiclayo and Sipan to the Moche tombs. The tombs were discovered in 1987, and offer visitors an insight into the pre-Incan Moche and Chimu cultures. These early peoples utilised infrastructure such as road and canal developments that are thought to have strongly influenced the later Incas.

The Ingapirca Trail

Although located in nearby Ecuador, Ingaprica represents one of the most important and well preserved Inca sites. This is a great walk for anyone looking for absolutely superb scenery, and is beloved by many walkers because of the vastly reduced traffic that they have to share the trail with. Many people who take part in this hike also take the opportunity to stop off at the colonial city of Cuenca, which is the original home of the Panama hat.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. For walks in Peru see our incredible selection. Join us to experience scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.

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Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk

This walk takes place in the south-west part of the sprawling Te Urewera National Park. The walk is a 46 km hike around the lion’s share of the lake’s circumference. The hike takes around three to four days in its entirety and it is important that visitors who are embarking on the route book huts and campsites for their accommodation before they start. (Again, a tour company will organise all this for you.) The walk takes in a large range of terrains and many different types of vegetation.

Heaphy Track

This walk is located in the northern part of the South Island and is the longest of the Department of Conservation walks, stretching over an ambitious 78.4 km. The route is well established and is suitable for the fit and well-equipped taking part in walking holidays. New Zealand’s Kahurangi National Park has a good infrastructure, with bridges crossing all of the rivers and major streams and a mountain bike trail available for those who favour two wheels over two boots. The route takes four to six days to walk and two to three days to ride.

The Milford Track

The site of some of the most popular walking holidays, New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park is considered by many to be home to the finest walk in the world. People travel across the planet to see the national park. The route begins at Lake Te Anau and heads all the way down to Milford Sound. Visitors also get the joy of a trip in a boat at either end of the trip, adding another element to this stunning trip.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. For walking holidays New Zealand is a fascinating destination. Join us to experience scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.

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Kiwi

The Kiwi is a particularly fascinating species of bird to observe while you’re in the country on your walking holidays. At just about the same size as a domestic chicken, Kiwi are very small in stature, but, interestingly, they lay the largest eggs in relation to their body size of any species of bird in the entire world. On your walking holidays, New Zealand might offer the rare chance to spot one of these birds – rare due to the fact that the five recognised species of Kiwi are currently endangered, affected by the deforestation in New Zealand’s history. Luckily, there are many protected areas for the Kiwi to begin flourishing again.

Kakapo

In Maori, the name Kakapo can be translated as ‘night parrot’ – and it’s an apt name for these birds! The Kakapo holds the distinct honour of being the world’s only flightless parrot, and it is nocturnal and herbivorous to boot. It’s certainly one of the more unique birds you’ll see on your walking holidays. New Zealand’s Kakapo are also critically endangered, and conservation efforts to protect the species are being given high priority in order to ensure the Kakapo’s survival. These conservation efforts have given the species a high public profile in certain circles, however – Gerald Durrell, Stephen Fry, and Douglas Adams have all publicised the Kakapo birds and their struggle to survive.

Tuatara

The Tuatara are a species of lizards that are quite a challenge to glimpse during your walking holidays. New Zealand, being home to many unique species, has plenty of interesting animals to espy, but the Tuatara especially stands out – for their third eye! Although little understood, research into the ‘third eye’ has shown it to be photo-sensitive, and possibly used to help the animal maintain its circadian cycles. The name itself also gives a clue that can help you to spot the Tuatara – or, as the word means in the Maori language, ‘peaks on the back’.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. For walking holidays New Zealand is a fascinating destination. Join us to experience scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Vamos from Vancouver

One of the most popular starting places is the city of Vancouver. While Vancouver is recorded as the eighth largest Canadian city, it is actually the third largest metropolitan area, so there is plenty of urban landscape to explore before you head off to the Rockies’ wilderness. The cultural, commercial and financial heart of the West, Vancouver is a vibrant, modern multicultural city, considered the most ethnically diverse in the country – with more than half the population not speaking English as their first language. This atmosphere makes Vancouver an absolute must visit for anyone travelling to this part of North America.

The proximity of Vancouver to the local mountains makes it an ideal place to kick off a holiday spent walking in Canada. Taking only a short journey outside of the city, visitors can quickly find themselves in the midst of the ranging natural surroundings that make the country famous amongst the global rambling community. A popular destination to head to from the city is Manning Park, a small resort in the Cascade Mountains close to the border with the United States (Washington State).

Manning Park

If you’ve booked a holiday walking in Canada’s western British Columbia province, then Manning Park, or E.C. Manning Provincial Park to give it its proper name, is a large recreational park and ski area covering over 70,000 hectares. Established in 1941, the park covers a variety of terrains from wet coastal forests, to impressive mountain peaks and alpine grasslands. The park is fondly regarded amongst walkers and hikers in British Columbia, with a wide range of trails offering walks of any duration from half an hour to a week in total. For those who want to take a rest from dry land, the park also offers canoeing opportunities and, in the winter, is a top spot for both downhill and cross-country skiing.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Join us on a holiday walking in Canada to see scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.

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For any bride, regardless of age, a wedding should be a magical day, when everything seems to stop and you are transported to a time and place where life is rosy, the sound of birdsong fills the air, flowers are all abloom and love is the prevailing feeling all around! Sure, things may not be all that rosy in real life, but with couture wedding gowns, at least you can be sure you look perfect!

A Perfect Fit…

One of the best things about couture wedding gowns is the fact that they fit the bride they are made for, perfectly – that’s the advantage of something made to your exact specifications. Your height, your weight, your measurements– with a bespoke gown, you can be sure that it won’t be too tight or too loose (barring, of course, any unusual weight loss or gain between the gown’s completion and the big day), there won’t be any stretching or wrinkling where there isn’t supposed to be, you won’t need to keep tugging and pulling uncomfortably, and, most of all, you know it’s meant just for you! It will make the most of your assets, downplay your flaws (assuming you have any) and show you off at your perfect best!

For More Than Your Measurements

What’s most important is that the fit of couture wedding gowns is sheer perfection – not just physically but in other aspects as well, like your personal style. While they may often, but not always, cost more than off-the-rack dresses, collaborating with a designer and seamstress you can work closely with can assure you of a dress to fit your budget.

Fitting Your Dreams Too

Vitally, makers of couture wedding gowns don’t just ensure that their work fits your measurements, your personality and your budget, they can also ensure that the dress they make for you fits the design in your head of what the perfect wedding dress can be. What is your dream dress? In your mind, what should you look like in your fantasy dress? A fairy princess? A member of the Medieval nobility? A Renaissance maid? The Queen of Flowers? A young, stylish, fashionable bride? A laid back, beach denizen? All these looks and more can be created for the asking– just work closely with your chosen design team and see how easy it is to have the magical gown of your dreams! If you can dream it – you can achieve it!

Looking for couture wedding gowns? Tatiana Porembova is one of the leading wedding dress designers in London and her work spans a range of styles and influences. Based in Richmond, she creates beautiful couture wedding gowns and bridesmaids outfits to provide the perfect garments for the perfect day.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Dutch Masters Up Close

Formerly the capital of The Netherlands, the birthplace of many famed Dutch painters – including those from the Golden Age, who were masters of art and shadow, such as Rembrandt and Vermeer – Amsterdam is where one can see the region that spawned the kind of artistry they had. The kind that could evoke true emotion in viewers – allowing them to be part of the scene.

It is also the perfect place to view the work of the Amsterdam Impressionists, who evolved around the same time as their French counterparts. As their favourite subject was life in the bustling part of the city, it is certainly fun to view these masterpieces on your Amsterdam study tour and compare them to how the city is at present! What’s more, many of these places are concentrated in an area known as Museumplein, or Museum Square– which means less time running to and fro, and more time to savour and appreciate these works of genius.

Van Gogh Museum

One of the city’s famous former residents, Vincent Van Gogh, has a museum dedicated to his life and work. The Van Gogh museum, a must-see part of any Amsterdam study tour, is the most visited museum in the city, and houses many of his famous masterpieces such as The Potato Eaters and Sunflowers.

Stedelijk Museum

Right next to the Van Gogh museum, the Stedelijk Museum provides a change of mood on a study tour, with the city’s largest collection of thought-provoking modern art. With a permanent collection of works by Pietr Mondrian, Karel Appel and the like, it contains 90,000 objects from different artistic disciplines and has been renowned as the most influential museum when it comes to artwork of the 20th century – rivalling Centre Pompidou and the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art. While it has been under renovation for a time, it is set to re-open in 2012.

Rembrandthuis Museum

Of course, no-one on a study tour should miss the house where Rembrandt lived and painted for nearly 20 years. Containing a complete overview of his graphic work, as well as a peek into his life, it also contains works by his teachers and students.

Rijksmuseum

The largest collection of classical Dutch art, is of course, the Rijksmuseum. The highlight of any study tour featuring the Dutch masters, this collection of nearly one million objects includes Rembrandt’s masterpiece “The Night Watch” and Vermeer’s “The Milkmaid” among others.

Aside from these bastions of fine art, no visit to Amsterdam is complete without a visit to the other museums spread throughout the city – including the Anne Frank House, the Jewish History Museum, and the Museum of the Tropics. What’s more, there are also plenty of other activities to round out a study tour– visit the exhibitions of performing arts or simply have a taste of the amazing nightlife the city has to offer.

Simon Prendergast works for FHT, a company specialising in flexible and inspiring study tour options across a wide range of subjects. FHT’s study tours benefit from over 40 years of experience arranging accommodation, educational itineraries, and everything leaders need to plan a successful trip.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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So You Want To Make Movies

If film is your main interest, particularly making them, many a New York film and television study tour will definitely include visits to the New York Film Academy. Considered one of the best hands-on schools for filmmakers, particularly for actors and directors, this film institute comes highly recommended by the likes of Steven Spielberg, Jamie Foxx, Jodie Foster, Al Pacino, Robert Downey Jr., Peter Bogdanovich, Tim Robbins and the like. This is because of their teaching philosophy– learning by doing. If you’re lucky, you may possibly catch short term film and acting workshops as well when you’re there.

The Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts is another must-visit site on a film, TV and theatre study tour. The Lincoln Center, a complex of buildings in a 16.3-hectare area of Lincoln Square, is home to 29 indoor and outdoor performance halls and theatres as well as Juilliard, the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, the Film Society of Lincoln Center and more. This is a wonderful place to get a feel for the future for those who are considering a future in film, television and theatre.

You’ve Seen Them On Screen, Now See Them In Real Life!

Of course, of the many highlights of any New York study tour, perhaps the most fun is the tour of New York television and movie sites. Many of the locations of famous scenes from your favourite films and television shows can be found here on this enjoyable outing.

Your New York study tour can take you to Fifth Avenue, home of so many iconic buildings, facades, stores and storefronts. Such as Tiffany and Co., from Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Sweet Home Alabama and Borat; the New York Public Library, seen in countless movies and television shows; the Empire State Building from An Affair To Remember, Love Affair, Sleepless in Seattle and many television shows; FAO Schwartz where Tom Hanks danced on the giant floor piano in Big; and many more. Central Park is another famous location for many movies such as Marathon man, It Could Happen To You, Almost Famous and several television shows. Radio City Music Hall, Greenwich District and Chelsea, Tribeca and more are also places you’ll recognize from the movies and television.

For those who want to study for a future in the entertainment industry, a study tour in New York is an invaluable preparation – and most importantly, a truly inspiring one.

Simon Prendergast works for FHT, a company specialising in flexible and inspiring study tour options across a wide range of subjects. FHT’s study tours benefit from over 40 years of experience arranging accommodation, educational itineraries, and everything leaders need to plan a successful trip.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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With its museums and galleries, and the palpable sense of inspiration to be found along its canals, it is an ideal destination for university trips – especially for students of art or art history. Here are some of the features that make it so enticing for passionate young artists or art historians.

Ancient Art: National Archaeological Museum

With its collection of ancient sculptures, including pieces from Greece and Rome, and its displays on the Egyptian and Assyrian-Babylonian civilisations, this is a must for any student of European art history. It is also one of the oldest museums in Venice, and an interesting place for those on university trips to learn about how art and artefacts were traded by the aristocracy.

Traditional Art: Galleria dell’Accademia

From its collection of medieval and Renaissance works, to the building itself, this is a fascinating gallery for artists and art historians. It was constructed by the Senate in 1750 to house a school of painting, sculpture and architecture – the Accademia di Belle Arti de Venezia – and was a pioneering academy in its teaching of art restoration. Art lovers will certainly appreciate its collection, which includes Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic Vitruvian Man, and works by Giovanni Bellini and Lorenzo Lotto.

Modern Art: Peggy Guggenheim Collection

For students on university trips interested in modern art, a visit to the Guggenheim may be in order. It was established by Peggy Guggenheim in 1951 to collect art from the 20th century, including pieces by some of the most famous masters of that century – Duchamp, Picasso, Dali, Kandinsky, Giacometti and Pollock. The gallery offers an exciting contrast to the traditional art found in other parts of the city and completes the picture of Venice as a location where all ages of art rub shoulders with each other.

The Art Fair: Venice Biennale

If your group includes students interested in curating, timing your university trips to coincide with the Venice Biennale could be wonderfully eye-opening for them. For any art student, such an important international exhibition is sure to be a memorable experience, and a chance to see a huge range of art from countries and schools they may not be familiar with. The first Biennale, in 1895, was a more locally-oriented art fair, but as its renown grew more countries flocked to join in, and in its modern incarnation it features 30 National Pavilions, showcasing works from all around the world.

Robert Emdur works for Equity Student Travel, the UK’s leading specialist in group travel for students in higher and further education. We organise university trips to destinations around the world covering a wide range of subjects, as well as conference & event-focused trips.

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The ‘City of Light’ has long been a centre of innovation and inspiration, so a visit there not only provides fascinating learning and research opportunities but an important example of how science has historically been linked to society and politics. Read on for some ideas for an eye-opening, engaging itinerary.

La Cité des Sciences et de L’Industrie

The jewel in the crown of the Cultural Centre of Science, Technology and Industry, this science museum has the honour of being Europe’s biggest, and is bound to provide a wealth of knowledge. Designed to boost curiosity and creative learning in people of all ages, the interactive displays could be a great way of re-kindling your students’ sense of wonder. Displays on the history of science will also be of interest to those on university trips, and could provide a good starting point for discussions on how the study of science has developed and will continue to do so in the future.

Musee de L’Air et de L’Espace

With a magnificent collection of almost 20,000 items, including aircraft and spacecraft, this 150,000 square metre aviation museum will appeal to many on university trips – from engineering students to aspiring astrophysicists. Treasures include the prototype for the Concorde plane, prototype Soviet rockets, and an early electric motor from 1884. With an interesting and varied programme of temporary exhibitions, talks and other events, this could be an excellent opportunity for students to learn more about the world of aviation and new ideas in the field.

The Curie Museum

For an important piece of science history, those organizing university trips might want to consider paying a visit to the Curie Museum, built around the laboratory that the University of Paris built for Marie Curie herself. Curie’s advances in the study of radioactivity have secured her place in the pantheon of celebrated scientists, and the museum explores her work, its context, and its significance to the world. Visitors can learn about the historic uses of radioactivity in science and medicine, how the field developed, and where scientific bodies like the Institut Curie are taking it. The restored laboratory at the heart of the museum is a true piece of science heritage and continues to serve as an inspiration for those with an interest in chemistry and medicine.

Robert Emdur works for Equity Student Travel, the UK’s leading specialist in group travel for students in higher and further education. We organise university trips to destinations around the world covering a wide range of subjects, as well as conference & event-focused trips.

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Why is La Tania a good choice of resort to stay in?

Many people decide to stay in a self catering chalet. La Tania offers plenty of these to choose from and they are ideally suited for anyone wanting to take advantage of the ski runs in the surrounding area. Many of the chalets are in the wooded area not far from the resort itself. This means you can leave your accommodation in the morning and be on the slopes in no time. Even if you decide to visit the slopes in nearby Courchevel, Meribel, Orelle or the other locations within the Three Valleys area, you will still be back at home reasonably quickly at the end of the day.

Is it safe and convenient for children?

Many parents find this is the ideal resort for a family skiing holiday. One of the most appealing features is that no traffic is allowed in the resort. This is nice for everyone and it does mean the children are safer than they would be otherwise. You can also book skiing lessons for your children and book them into the crèche if you want to enjoy some adult time on the slopes. The self catering accommodation is also perfect for families who like the appeal of a chalet. La Tania has a range of these nestling in a gorgeous forest of pine trees.

Is it all about skiing?

No – despite the fact this is the ideal destination for skiers of all abilities, there is far more to do in and around the resort as well. Ten-pin bowling might provide an alternative for some families, and snow-shoe walks are also arranged on a regular basis. You can visit the local tourist office for more information on these events and many more. Dog sledding is another possibility that might appeal to the more adventurous kids of all ages.

What about food and drink?

This is a purpose built resort, originally designed for the Winter Olympics back in 1992. However it now caters for thousands of visitors every year, and it provides many restaurants and bars to frequent during your stay; there is also a supermarket so you can buy food to take back to your chalet. La Tania is well equipped for families, couples and individuals and, since it has good access to a wide range of slopes, it is not surprising that skiers love the area. With thousands of snow cannons in the Three Valleys region and lots of runs of all kinds, you will love your skiing holiday here.

Danielle Hodges is the Marketing Manager for Ski Amis, a specialist ski travel agency and booking service offering bonded holidays staying in a catered or self-catered chalet, La Tania and other fantastic destinations. For a luxury or good-value skiing holiday in the best chalet, La Tania is an ideal location.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Learning how to ski

This area is ideal for all manner of skiers. If you are going to strap your skis on for the first time you will be glad to know there are several ski schools that can teach you how to ski properly. They have classes for both adults and children, and they can also provide private lessons if you prefer one-on-one attention.

Take part in cross country skiing

The resort also promises a full 26km of challenging and spectacular cross country tracks to follow if you prefer this activity to regular skiing. You can go across country all the way to Courchevel if you wish, before heading back to your chalet. La Tania shuttle buses are waiting to give you a lift if you cannot make it there and back!

A purpose built resort

There are apartments in the main part of the resort, but many will choose to stay in a chalet. La Tania boasts a pleasant green forest to house the chalets, yet you are still close to the slopes when you are ready to go skiing. Everything is on your doorstep.

Explore the snowpark

This is another feature that the resort has installed for the enjoyment of families. You can also explore the Red Indian Park together and stay safe in the Evolution Zones. These zones are put together to ensure novice skiers and children of all ages can be safe and enjoy themselves at all times – the perfect introduction to a skiing holiday.

Is it noisy at night?

If you are planning a skiing holiday with your family you want to know you can return to peace and quiet in your chalet. La Tania can offer just this, since it is not the noisiest destination you could choose. Other areas in the Three Valleys region, such as Meribel, offer far more in the way of entertainment at night. This means you can enjoy a day on the slopes with your children and get back to your chalet to settle them down for a good night’s sleep without any disturbance at night.

Are there other things to do except skiing?

Even the most hardened of skiers will want some time off from the slopes. There are some shops in town and plenty of walks to go on in the local area. There are also eight restaurants in total, offering a chance to sample some local dishes. Some have good views of the slopes so you can watch the world go by while you eat and relax.

In short, La Tania is an excellent choice for a family skiing holiday. But it is also ideal for adult skiers who want something a little more demanding and don’t like the noisy entertainment at nights.

Danielle Hodges is the Marketing Manager for Ski Amis, a specialist ski travel agency and booking service offering bonded holidays staying in a catered or self-catered chalet, La Tania and other fantastic destinations. For a luxury or good-value skiing holiday in the best chalet, La Tania is an ideal location.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Great Things in Small Packages
Although it’s celebrating twenty years as a ski resort popular amongst discerning heads looking for a chalet, La Tania hasn’t been submerged under a flood of development. It’s managed to retain a compact central core that makes it very straight-forward for newcomers to navigate, even on the more blustery winter evenings that they decide to leave the comfort of their chalet. La Tania has a convenient central cluster of restaurants, bars, shops and other entertainment venues, including a cinema. The centre of the resort is free of traffic, keeping it safe and secure for families with small children making their way around the shops and restaurants.

Family Friendly
This small stature makes LT a place full of charm, the location of the various amenities is not the only strong selling point of choosing the resort for a chalet. La Tania is also located slap bang in the middle of the largest continuous ski area in the world, Les Trois Vallees. The proximity the resort enjoys to this vast ski area gives visitors access to a whopping 600km of runs, providing enough of the white stuff for people to return over a few years before they can cover every mile of the supreme piste. LT is perfectly poised for those looking to clock up the miles on skis or by board.

Affordable Charm
The resort has other benefits thanks to its relative obscurity: it is considered much more affordable than its more illustrious neighbours, being unable to offer the renowned prestige of Courchevel or the sprawling scope of Meribel. If you want to take a skiing holiday in the region, LT represents a great opportunity in terms of location at an affordable price for all sizes and ages of travelling groups.

Danielle Hodges is the Marketing Manager for Ski Amis, a specialist ski travel agency and booking service offering bonded holidays staying in a catered or self-catered chalet, La Tania and other fantastic destinations. For a luxury or good-value skiing holiday in the best chalet, La Tania is an ideal location.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Treasure Beach — Travelling along the southern coast of Jamaica, villa locations in the area are perfect for giving you access to the stunning array of coves and inlets where the waters meet the sometimes rocky, sometimes sandy shores. Treasure Beach is a six-mile stretch of coastline with coral coloured (and occasionally black) sands. Treasure Beach boasts an array of lovely bays which all offer varying levels of privacy and different aspects of beauty such as: Billy’s, Calabash, Fort Charles, Great and Frenchman’s. Some areas allow you to sit and watch the small fishing boats to come in and enjoy a freshly caught and cooked lunch. All these beaches are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or simply lazing about with a drink enjoying the atmosphere.

Lime Cay — Located a short boat ride from Port Royal, off the coast of Jamaica, villa selections on the mainland have the perfect view of this disappearing island, which serves as the main inlet for the port area. But you won’t be able to stay here all that long, as sometimes the island is submerged, making any permanent infrastructure nearly impossible. But having your private boat take you out to the island will allow you to mingle with other like-minded socialites and well-to-do holiday makers while you lounge on the Cay’s stunning beaches and make use of the surrounding waters, which are some of the best for snorkelling.

Duncan’s in Montego Bay — There is no shortage of scenery or stretches of beaches to enjoy and frolic on near your Jamaica villa. Various locations will give you a bit more flexibility in which parts of the islands you want to stay in, and how exclusive you want your holiday to be. If you want a bit of history and glamour, then choose a location where you can easily get to Duncan’s in Montego Bay. The enticing shores of Silver Sands are protected by a reef that leaves the water calm and extraordinarily blue. After you have spent your time on the beaches, stroll into the quiet town for a wander before going to see where Christopher Columbus’ son, Diego Columbus, is buried and perhaps having a chat with some of the friendliest locals on the island.

Cheryl Matthews works for the Essential Hotel Collection, offering a handpicked portfolio of privately owned hotels, such as a Jamaica villa at Round Hill, ideal for weddings and honeymoons. We have an intimate knowledge of every property and can provide the perfect Jamaica villa to make your island dreams a reality.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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Sugar Mill Restaurant — Located in Montego Bay, the Sugar Mill Restaurant is one of the top places to dine on local favourites made with culinary flair when you want an evening out in Jamaica. Villa locations are perfect to allow you to visit the lovely old sugar plantation, where you can book to dine by candlelight indoors or outside on the terrace with views of the waterwheel, pond and an endless sea of greenery. Be sure to ask what the daily curry is, and most importantly, be sure to book your table well in advance.

Mille Fleurs — When you get peckish at night, head into the heart of Port Antonio, Jamaica. Villa locations on this part of the island make it easy to head up to the highly perched Mockingbird Hotel to dine in the Mille Fleurs restaurant, where you are in for a rare treat. Here, culinary star chef, Melvin Laidlaw, crafts intricate dishes that sing in your mouth while highlighting local produce and the freshest of ingredients that lend themselves well to the variety of vegetarian dishes on the menu. Mille Fleurs requires a booking ahead – but go early so you can experience the sunset in this stunning location.

The Jasmine — For those who are more comfortable eating out in a well-known hotel while in Jamaica, villa luxury and hotel dining can be a perfect mix. For a restaurant attached to a hotel that you know has high standards, book a table at The Jasmine in the Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall Resort. Here, the exclusive restaurant boasts one of the most formally elegant dining experiences in all of Jamaica, with only 12 exquisitely laid tables inside and a couple more outside. While the interior seems to transport you to a chateau in France, the food will take you all over the world with an interesting mix of Eastern and Western fusion with a Jamaican flair.

The Redbones Blues Café — Right in Kingston, and close to many a Jamaica villa, you should take the opportunity to head over to the Redbones Blues Café. An old Spanish colonial house sets the mood for a stunning dinner in a vibrant locale. In addition to serving some of the most interesting food in the city, if you plan your visit correctly, you may get to see some local poetry, jazz or blues music, or maybe even a foreign film after dining in the light and airy rooms.

Cheryl Matthews works for the Essential Hotel Collection, offering a handpicked portfolio of privately owned hotels, such as a Jamaica villa at Round Hill, ideal for weddings and honeymoons. We have an intimate knowledge of every property and can provide the perfect Jamaica villa to make your island dreams a reality.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

Size

The size of a wedding dress goes beyond simply deciding if it will fit well! When you’re taking a look at couture wedding dresses and wondering how you’ll look walking down the aisle, for instance, it can help to think a little further and imagine how you’ll feel dancing the night away afterwards! A dress with a lengthy and voluminous train might look incredibly impressive in one instance, but will leave you tripping over your own feet in the other. It’s all down to the size of the dress – billowing fabric and cascading veils have their place, but be sure the size is suited to the purpose.

Personality

It’s harder to put your finger on, but every dress comes complete with a sense of personality. Whether it’s a playful neckline, or long, elegant sleeves, a dress can show off a sense of the person inside, and so it’s always a good idea to choose from among your couture wedding dresses with an eye to how you want to be seen on the day. Whether you hope to appear every inch the demure, elegant bride, or you want to enter the partnership of marriage in an energetic, fun-loving way, there’s plenty to look out for – and a dress to suit every kind of bride.

Style

There are about as many different styles of wedding dress out there as there are brides! It’s always a good idea to decide what kind of style you’re looking for in your choice of couture wedding dresses before you start your shopping. Taking some advice from friends or designers about what would look best on you is a good way to make sure that you find the dress that suits you down to the ground. If you’re a fan of 50’s chic, or you’re instead hoping for a dress with a touch of timeless elegance, the particular style you choose can make or break your look. Don’t be afraid to enlist the help of your closest and most trusted friends as they will know your personality and how it will suit a particular dress.

Looking for couture wedding dresses? Tatiana Porembova is one of the leading wedding dress designers in London and her work spans a range of styles and influences. Based in Richmond, she creates beautiful couture wedding dresses and bridesmaids outfits to provide the perfect garments for the perfect day.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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What Era to Go For?
While you might already have a set idea about which era you’d like to sport for your wedding day, you should bear in mind that what was once fashionable might not actually be the most flattering kind of dress for you to wear. While this is the obvious strength of shelling out on bespoke couture wedding dresses, there’s no need to despair: the changing tides of fashion across the 20th century threw up many different styles, so there’s almost certainly one to suit even the most awkward of body-shapes. The earlier decades of the last century saw straighter, yet still glamorous, gowns emerge, while the 50s and 60ssaw the arrival of shorter hemlines and new materials.

Why Look Back?
Price isn’t the only advantage that vintage gowns have over modern couture wedding dresses: there’s also the environmental virtue that comes from reusing a dress, sparing the planet from the extra energy that would be required to produce a new item of clothing. Coupled with this, the use of a vintage gown also means that you’re likely to have a unique item of clothing, unencumbered by the pressures of modern fashions. It’s quite possible that a vintage gown will make use of materials and workmanship that aren’t seen in this day and age, meaning that by making use of a previously used dress you might actually be getting yourself a really special gown.

Where to Find A Vintage Dress
There are numerous places to find vintage gowns. Searching on online auction sites can be a great way to find bargains, although you may have to travel a long way to pick it up. Charity shops are also a potential source, although those who don’t like spending a huge amount of time searching for things might find this approach a little to hit and miss. There are also a number of established vintage bridal shops online that you can find through search engines. When you do find the dress of your dreams, enlist the help of a professional in order to adapt it and fit you like it was made just for you.

Looking for couture wedding dresses? Tatiana Porembova is one of the leading wedding dress designers in London and her work spans a range of styles and influences. Based in Richmond, she creates beautiful couture wedding dresses and bridesmaids outfits to provide the perfect garments for the perfect day.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

1. Princess Diana

The “mother” of all couture wedding gowns, this extravagant taffeta and lace concoction stood out for its 25-foot long train, so bulky that it barely fit in the carriage with Diana and her father! To this day, David and Elizabeth Emmanuel’s creation continues to split opinions, but it certainly leaves no one indifferent. It is also the centrepiece of a touring exhibition about Princess Diana, which continues to attract millions of people worldwide. Out of the two world-famous couture wedding gowns – Diana’s and Kate’s – the original continues to garner the most attention.

2. Kate Middleton
Which is not to say, of course, that the second fairytale princess did not also turn a few heads with her dress. As far as couture wedding gowns go, Kate’s was far less extravagant than Diana’s, but still had its points of interest. For instance, detailed in its lace were the symbols of all four nations of the United Kingdom. All in all, the dress was far leaner than Diana’s, but no less expensive: designed by Sarah Burton from Alexander McQueen, it is rumoured to have cost a quarter of a million pounds. Much like Diana’s, its design and designer’s name were kept under wraps until the very last moment, when, with an estimated one billion people watching, Catherine stepped out of the carriage outside Westminster Abbey.

3. Grace Kelly
Moving away from Britain, but not from princesses, the third entry in our list of famous couture wedding gowns is American actress Grace Kelly, better known as Princess Grace of Monaco. Fittingly, her dress for marrying Prince Ranier was designed by an MGM Studios costume designer, who had worked with Grace in several films. The gown was made out of century-old lace, and the underskirts were rumoured to be covered in little blue ribbons. Not a patch on the two British Cinderellas? That is up for debate. The fact is, Princess Grace is worthy of a place on this list, and her dress of a place in wedding gown history.

4. Melanie Knauss
Definitely moving away from Europe and princesses, and into American high-society, the next spot on our list belongs to Donald Trump’s wife. Melanie Knauss literally sparkled in her dress, which was covered in over 1,500 pearls and crystals. The total weight of this satin concoction was a whopping four stone, which, along with its inestimable value, warrants it a place on this dream dress roundup.

5. Marilyn Monroe
The last dress in our countdown made the list for slightly different reasons. Unlike the couture wedding gowns that preceded it, Marilyn Monroe’s outfit for marrying baseball star Joe DiMaggio was…a brown woollen skirt suit. And why not? After all, the notorious 1960s starlet was known for being a rebel and liking to break conventions. Her choice not to wear a traditional wedding gown only fits in with her unique persona, and it certainly helped give her wedding the unique touch needed to attract the media.

So there you have it. From British princesses to American starlets, this list of world-famous couture wedding gowns has really covered all bases! Hopefully, after reading it, you will be more inspired to help design your own dress for the special day!

Looking for couture wedding gowns? Tatiana Porembova is one of the leading wedding dress designers in London and her work spans a range of styles and influences. Based in Richmond, she creates beautiful couture wedding gowns and bridesmaids outfits to provide the perfect garments for the perfect day.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!