The modern word “luxury” comes from the Latin: luxus, meaning “abundance”. To have what you desire in abundance is the essence of luxury, and is there any place in the world more naturally abundant than Italy?
Name an earthly delight and it is available abundantly in Italy. People journey the world over to sample the luxury that is Italy. They tour the countryside to take in the views of rolling groves of olives and blood oranges. They climb the ancient steps of the Palatine Hill.
They sample the epicurean pleasures at the small oratories that dot Italy’s landscape. They bask in the sunlight and architecture of her southern coasts. You will never find a place on earth more luxurious than Italy at her best.
And if it is luxury that you’re after, luxury rental accommodations can be yours with a simple Internet search. Luxury vacation rentals are available in Italy throughout the year.
Type: luxury, rental, and Italy into your favorite search engine and you will find yourself beset with firms prepared to cater to your desires. Broker firms like “Parker Villas” or “Luxury Retreats” cater to the desires of the discerning traveler.
Log onto their websites and you will see an array of choices: a rustic villa built on Etruscan ruins, a medieval hamlet replete with fountains, an appointed winery just off the La Strada Del Vino, or an apartment just off the via Condotti in Rome—whatever your desire, you will find it abundantly in Italy.
Have you wondered what it was like to just slow down long enough to enjoy the fruits of pleasure? Have you ever watched movies set in Italy and marveled in the Italian ability to enjoy all that life has to offer? Did you ever wonder what it was like to live in Italy? Stop wondering and start living.
The rental industry in Italy has made Italian vacations more affordable than ever. With prices at about $700 a week for a mid-ranged rental house in Tuscany there is no time like the present to experience Italy like an Italian. For the price of a trip to Disney or a week at the beach you can be living in another country, slowing down, and learning to breathe again.
For a price less than you would pay to stay at a crowded beach you can wake to the bright pleasures of a Tuscan sunrise, wander the silvery groves of olives or the rolling fields of grapes, or relax to a hot cup of cappuccino at a piazza in Rome.
Rent a farmhouse in Umbria and tend sheep for a week. Rent a villa in Capri and relax amidst ocean views or on the patio of your private pool. If you’re a history buff then look no further. Rome, Herculaneum, and Pompeii await. Picture yourself there and then make it happen.
A search on: cheap, rental, Italy will produce millions of hits so it’s probably best to narrow the search by region or desire. Do you want to stay in a city or do you prefer the country? Do you like wine? Do you like historical sites?
Maybe you want a villa with a pool? Using the appropriate key words in a search engine you can find the exact vacation you desire. Remember that while broker prices are slightly higher than classifieds, they usually save you the hassle of communications, taxes, and even can assist with transportation. Happy hunting.
Name an earthly delight and it is available abundantly in Italy. Luxury vacation rentals are available in Italy throughout the year.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Friday, September 17, 2010
Travel Guide – New York Top Tourist Attractions
New York is a city that has a lot to offer tourists of all kinds. So, whether you prefer to visit museums, zoos, gardens or theaters, New York has it all.
In fact, there is a lot to do in New York City and there really is no reason why you can't do the best of them while you're here.
So, what are the top tourist attractions in New York City?
1. Ellis Island: If you want to understand how America came about, a visit to Ellis Island is a must. A ferry takes you to the island. The Island museum showcases a 30-minute documentary film that serves as a wonderful introduction to the immigrant experience in the US.
Then, there are audio tours and guided tours. If you have kids with you, there are grassy patches where you can enjoy a large family picnic. The Ellis Island Junior Ranger competition gives kids a chance to compete even as they explore the island. It's a great family halt.
2. Rockefeller Center: This iconic building is located in Midtown Manhattan and reopened after renovation in the late 1990s. The building houses many attractions. It is an architectural beauty and has the famous Radio City Music Hall and offers the NBC Studios Tour.
But, the most striking feature of the Rockefeller Center is an observatory on the 70th floor called Top of the Rock. The upper deck of the observatory is approximately 850 feet above the level of the street and offers a stunning view of the bustling city underneath. This observatory offers better views than the Empire State Building. Best of all, you don't have to wait in long queues!
3. The Grand Central Terminal: This stunning building in midtown Manhattan is more than a couple of train tracks. After its renovation, Grand Central began to house a large number of shops and restaurants. You can shop for almost anything from flowers to souvenirs. The most stunning view is the aquamarine cathedral top which offers varying views of the night sky.
4. Central park: One of the most popular tourist attractions in New York City, this is the place to go if you want to really see New York up close and personal. Many locals come to the park as it is a safe haven from the din and bustle of the city. The park itself offers venues for all sorts of activities ranging from ice skating to baseball and tennis. The Park also houses many well known sculptures.
This tourist favorite city is full of activities those are fun for parents and children traveling together. Moreover, Bronx Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, New York Aquarium, Brooklyn Children's Museum etc are the best attraction to visit.
In fact, there is a lot to do in New York City and there really is no reason why you can't do the best of them while you're here.
So, what are the top tourist attractions in New York City?
1. Ellis Island: If you want to understand how America came about, a visit to Ellis Island is a must. A ferry takes you to the island. The Island museum showcases a 30-minute documentary film that serves as a wonderful introduction to the immigrant experience in the US.
Then, there are audio tours and guided tours. If you have kids with you, there are grassy patches where you can enjoy a large family picnic. The Ellis Island Junior Ranger competition gives kids a chance to compete even as they explore the island. It's a great family halt.
2. Rockefeller Center: This iconic building is located in Midtown Manhattan and reopened after renovation in the late 1990s. The building houses many attractions. It is an architectural beauty and has the famous Radio City Music Hall and offers the NBC Studios Tour.
But, the most striking feature of the Rockefeller Center is an observatory on the 70th floor called Top of the Rock. The upper deck of the observatory is approximately 850 feet above the level of the street and offers a stunning view of the bustling city underneath. This observatory offers better views than the Empire State Building. Best of all, you don't have to wait in long queues!
3. The Grand Central Terminal: This stunning building in midtown Manhattan is more than a couple of train tracks. After its renovation, Grand Central began to house a large number of shops and restaurants. You can shop for almost anything from flowers to souvenirs. The most stunning view is the aquamarine cathedral top which offers varying views of the night sky.
4. Central park: One of the most popular tourist attractions in New York City, this is the place to go if you want to really see New York up close and personal. Many locals come to the park as it is a safe haven from the din and bustle of the city. The park itself offers venues for all sorts of activities ranging from ice skating to baseball and tennis. The Park also houses many well known sculptures.
This tourist favorite city is full of activities those are fun for parents and children traveling together. Moreover, Bronx Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, New York Aquarium, Brooklyn Children's Museum etc are the best attraction to visit.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Spain Interesting Places - The Cordoba Mosque
The Mosque of Cordoba has had an interesting history, beginning as a Moorish Mosque in the 10th century and consecrated as a Christian Cathedral in the 13th century after the conquest of Cordoba. Throughout the years it has undergone many alterations.
The Royal Chapel was built after the Recon quest as a pantheon for Spanish Kings and has also been much improved by succeeding generations. A nave was added later while the minaret of the old Mosque was converted into a bell tower. Some sections of the mosque were converted from the original Arabic architecture to Mudejar or converted to Moorish style and later to Gothic style.
Inside the Mosque
The inside of the Mosque is stunning, with a profusion of arches and pillars that gives one the impression of being inside a tent in the desert. The arches were made with alternating segments of brick and stone, the red brick layers alternating with the white stone layers and making us aware that though we are in a Christian church, this was once a Moorish house of worship. The profusion of columns further adds to the sensation of being inside a desert dwelling.
The Mihrab
The Mihrab had its origins in the prayer niches of the Coptic Christians. In mosques it is usually placed in the wall facing Mecca and is often decorated. At the mosque in Cordoba, it has been lavishly decorated since it was built in the age of the greatest splendor of Moorish Spain.
Golden Byzantine mosaics make us aware that Cordoba was one of the most prosperous as well as populous cities of Europe. Its poets, intellectuals and artisans excelled in their pursuits and their influence is seen in the construction of the mosque.
The Cathedral
In the sixteenth century, a cathedral was built inside the mosque and over the years, it has been improved and decorated by Spain's best craftsmen. The Gothic style of the cathedral is particularly interesting because of the many items that are a part of the decor. Two mahogany pulpits with a life-sized bull and lion in marble are some of the attractions that welcome the tourists.
The Bell Tower
The Bell Tower, originally the minaret of the mosque, is a good place to get some stupendous views of the city of Cordoba. You will need to climb a number of steps to get there but the effort is well worth it. The mosque itself is set on a hill and the height of the bell tower makes it an ideal place to see the surrounding countryside as well.
The Royal Chapel was built after the Recon quest as a pantheon for Spanish Kings and has also been much improved by succeeding generations. A nave was added later while the minaret of the old Mosque was converted into a bell tower. Some sections of the mosque were converted from the original Arabic architecture to Mudejar or converted to Moorish style and later to Gothic style.
Inside the Mosque
The inside of the Mosque is stunning, with a profusion of arches and pillars that gives one the impression of being inside a tent in the desert. The arches were made with alternating segments of brick and stone, the red brick layers alternating with the white stone layers and making us aware that though we are in a Christian church, this was once a Moorish house of worship. The profusion of columns further adds to the sensation of being inside a desert dwelling.
The Mihrab
The Mihrab had its origins in the prayer niches of the Coptic Christians. In mosques it is usually placed in the wall facing Mecca and is often decorated. At the mosque in Cordoba, it has been lavishly decorated since it was built in the age of the greatest splendor of Moorish Spain.
Golden Byzantine mosaics make us aware that Cordoba was one of the most prosperous as well as populous cities of Europe. Its poets, intellectuals and artisans excelled in their pursuits and their influence is seen in the construction of the mosque.
The Cathedral
In the sixteenth century, a cathedral was built inside the mosque and over the years, it has been improved and decorated by Spain's best craftsmen. The Gothic style of the cathedral is particularly interesting because of the many items that are a part of the decor. Two mahogany pulpits with a life-sized bull and lion in marble are some of the attractions that welcome the tourists.
The Bell Tower
The Bell Tower, originally the minaret of the mosque, is a good place to get some stupendous views of the city of Cordoba. You will need to climb a number of steps to get there but the effort is well worth it. The mosque itself is set on a hill and the height of the bell tower makes it an ideal place to see the surrounding countryside as well.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Ahmedabad Kite Museum
Are you a kite enthusiast? Do you love flying kites? Are you enthralled by kites of various shapes, colors, and sizes? If yes then a visit to Kite Museum in Ahmedabad is a must. Located in Sanskar Kendra Kite Museum is one of the most unique museums in Ahmedabad and houses an extraordinary collection of rare kites built over in five decades.
Established in 1985, the museum is a brainchild of Bhanubhai Shah, who carefully treasured these uniquely crafted kites for more than fifty years that were not only meant to adorn the azure skies but also stood out as examples of rare collectibles.
From kites that have been crafted from 400 pieces of paper to the kites of unique colours, the Kite Museum, Ahmedabad is one of the major tourist attractions of Ahmedabad.
According to the history one Mr Shah was very fond of not only flying kites but also collecting them. Collecting rare and unique kites was his hobby and acting on that hobby he planned to open a space where he and other kite enthusiasts could display their collection.
The museum has a collection ranging from huge kites which are 22 by 16 feet to some of the smallest kites.
Crafted from different materials including but not limited to polythene, nylon, cotton and paper, the kites in the museum attracts thousands of visitors every year which includes families, and kite enthusiasts from all over the world.
Paying tribute to our very own Lord Krishna are the kites with miniature paintings of Radha Krishna. Moving on the museum has kites displaying intricately crafted sequences of garba - a dance form unique to the state of Gujarat - performed in the reverence of Goddess Durga during the Navratras, which literally translated means nine nights. The kites also display the unique mirror work and block prints forming a major attraction for tourists.
Apart from the traditional Indian designs, the museum also houses one of the most lavishly designed and decorated kites -- hexagonal Rokoku which are beautiful Japanese kites.
In addition to all the kites displayed at the museum one can even find snippets and information on them; hence a visit to the museum is a must for an enriching experience as kite flying is one of the oldest sports of India.
The adjacent part to the museum has a theatre, which on various occasions is a venue of various cultural activities.
Kite Museum is open from 10:00 to 12:00 and 16:00 to 18:00 hrs on all days except Mondays.
Established in 1985, the museum is a brainchild of Bhanubhai Shah, who carefully treasured these uniquely crafted kites for more than fifty years that were not only meant to adorn the azure skies but also stood out as examples of rare collectibles.
From kites that have been crafted from 400 pieces of paper to the kites of unique colours, the Kite Museum, Ahmedabad is one of the major tourist attractions of Ahmedabad.
According to the history one Mr Shah was very fond of not only flying kites but also collecting them. Collecting rare and unique kites was his hobby and acting on that hobby he planned to open a space where he and other kite enthusiasts could display their collection.
The museum has a collection ranging from huge kites which are 22 by 16 feet to some of the smallest kites.
Crafted from different materials including but not limited to polythene, nylon, cotton and paper, the kites in the museum attracts thousands of visitors every year which includes families, and kite enthusiasts from all over the world.
Paying tribute to our very own Lord Krishna are the kites with miniature paintings of Radha Krishna. Moving on the museum has kites displaying intricately crafted sequences of garba - a dance form unique to the state of Gujarat - performed in the reverence of Goddess Durga during the Navratras, which literally translated means nine nights. The kites also display the unique mirror work and block prints forming a major attraction for tourists.
Apart from the traditional Indian designs, the museum also houses one of the most lavishly designed and decorated kites -- hexagonal Rokoku which are beautiful Japanese kites.
In addition to all the kites displayed at the museum one can even find snippets and information on them; hence a visit to the museum is a must for an enriching experience as kite flying is one of the oldest sports of India.
The adjacent part to the museum has a theatre, which on various occasions is a venue of various cultural activities.
Kite Museum is open from 10:00 to 12:00 and 16:00 to 18:00 hrs on all days except Mondays.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Lyon Tourist Attractions – Top Five must visit
Lyon, one of the most beautiful cities in France has so many attractions to offer. Appreciate the romantic vibe of the metropolis, have a closer look at its exceptional architecture and esteem the breathtaking landscape. To get to Lyon, train traveling seems to be the finest choice.
Just book a trip with the Eurostar and enjoy the most romantic and surreal European vacations.
Basilique Notre Dame-de-Fourviere
Created during the 19th century, the imposing basilica features striking architecture and significant history. Although at first, you might confuse it with a fortress; in reality the amazing cathedral is quite inspiring. For tourists interested in visiting the attraction, admission is free of charge and the gates are opened from 8am until 7pm. Find out more about the French structural design, admire the interior decor and spend quality time in Lyon.
Theatres Romains de Fourviere
Recognized as being the oldest theatre in France, Theatres Romains de Fourviere is very well kept and highly valued by all inhabitants. The theater, as well as the odium and the shrine, will offer to all travelers amazing scenery from the Fourviere Hill.
Appreciate fine French artistry and find out more about such controversial attractions. Discover Lyon, and enjoy your retreat where romance and calmness will make you feel the past.
Atelier de Soierie
Lyon is famous for its silk manufacturing. The city has over 400 years of experience in the industry, and thus Atelier de Soierie is one of the main attractions. For travelers looking for innovation, a visit will definitely impress them. Apart from demonstration and various displays, those interested will also have the opportunity to get a glimpse into some of the best techniques of making silk. Entering the atelier is free of charge for visitors, and opening hours begin at 9am from Monday to Saturday.
Aquarium du Grand Lyon
Positioned just outside Lyon, Aquarium du Grand is a fascinating attraction. Featuring various species of fish and underwater fauna, tourists will certainly enjoy their visit. The aquarium is an ideal location for groups and families looking for a bit on entertainment in the city. Opened from Monday to Friday, the Aquarium starts at 10am. Have a look at the amazing species, appreciate the relaxing ambiance of the place and enjoy your time off in Lyon.
The Lumiere Institute
For tourists who want to find out how the history of cinematography started off, the Lumiere Institute is the right attraction to stop by. Showing off old fashioned cameras utilized to make movies in the past, the setting is the ideal destination for film enthusiasts. In additions, various movies are sometimes displayed at the institute to give people a better idea of French cinematography.
Lyon is a magnificent city to appreciate. Its magnificent architecture and beautiful surroundings will make all visitors have a great time. Plan your visit to the city and go for the Eurostar train traveling. It will only take you a few hours from London to get to Lyon, and you have the chance to enjoy a unique vacation.
Just book a trip with the Eurostar and enjoy the most romantic and surreal European vacations.
Basilique Notre Dame-de-Fourviere
Created during the 19th century, the imposing basilica features striking architecture and significant history. Although at first, you might confuse it with a fortress; in reality the amazing cathedral is quite inspiring. For tourists interested in visiting the attraction, admission is free of charge and the gates are opened from 8am until 7pm. Find out more about the French structural design, admire the interior decor and spend quality time in Lyon.
Theatres Romains de Fourviere
Recognized as being the oldest theatre in France, Theatres Romains de Fourviere is very well kept and highly valued by all inhabitants. The theater, as well as the odium and the shrine, will offer to all travelers amazing scenery from the Fourviere Hill.
Appreciate fine French artistry and find out more about such controversial attractions. Discover Lyon, and enjoy your retreat where romance and calmness will make you feel the past.
Atelier de Soierie
Lyon is famous for its silk manufacturing. The city has over 400 years of experience in the industry, and thus Atelier de Soierie is one of the main attractions. For travelers looking for innovation, a visit will definitely impress them. Apart from demonstration and various displays, those interested will also have the opportunity to get a glimpse into some of the best techniques of making silk. Entering the atelier is free of charge for visitors, and opening hours begin at 9am from Monday to Saturday.
Aquarium du Grand Lyon
Positioned just outside Lyon, Aquarium du Grand is a fascinating attraction. Featuring various species of fish and underwater fauna, tourists will certainly enjoy their visit. The aquarium is an ideal location for groups and families looking for a bit on entertainment in the city. Opened from Monday to Friday, the Aquarium starts at 10am. Have a look at the amazing species, appreciate the relaxing ambiance of the place and enjoy your time off in Lyon.
The Lumiere Institute
For tourists who want to find out how the history of cinematography started off, the Lumiere Institute is the right attraction to stop by. Showing off old fashioned cameras utilized to make movies in the past, the setting is the ideal destination for film enthusiasts. In additions, various movies are sometimes displayed at the institute to give people a better idea of French cinematography.
Lyon is a magnificent city to appreciate. Its magnificent architecture and beautiful surroundings will make all visitors have a great time. Plan your visit to the city and go for the Eurostar train traveling. It will only take you a few hours from London to get to Lyon, and you have the chance to enjoy a unique vacation.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Own Vacation Home – Benefits for your enjoyment
A second home owner is more likely a higher educated baby boomer.
Higher educated baby boomers are the most likely candidates to own a second home according to a study that was conducted by Harvard University. On the report it stated that it was four times more likely that a higher educated individual would own a second home over a high school educated person.
Here are some of the benefits of having your own vacation home
1. Easily Arrange Mini Vacations
With your own vacation spot, you can quickly and easily arrange retreats without any prior planning, reservations or packing of clothes. If your vacation is set up correctly, you can go on holiday at little to no moment's notice.
2. Potential Income
Many people, who have their own vacation home, usually have a property manager who handles the weekly and weekend rental. In many vacation spots, you may have a situation where its income outstrips the mortgage payments.
Although it's possible for you to save a whole lot of money managing the property yourself. If you take the necessary steps, it's possible for you to become very successful at it.
With the right kind of attitude, it's often as much fun as it is rewarding, providing you implement the appropriate system. However, if you do decide to hire a management company, then you should ask lots of question.
However, most of the money comes from the homes appreciation over time. There was a report from a real estate journal written some years ago that said a home purchased in Utah for $485,000 resold for $945,000, only two years after its initial purchase, which is a remarkable 79% return on investment.
3. Quality Tenancy
The overwhelming majority of those who are able to rent a vacation home are usually financially free or stable and, will respect your property and are more likely to leave after their allotted time has passed. This is a breath of fresh air, especially when you consider the tenants that damage properties and create eviction issues.
4. Traditions of the Family
A family may spend a Christmas, summer or thanksgiving at their vacation spot. The time that they'll spend their together can only be categorized as priceless.
Whenever ever you arrive at your vacation home you should feel as though you've arrived at home. Make sure you adorn your holiday home with familiar items and use specific items that make you feel both settled and calm. This should make you feel relaxed, help you sleep and make visiting your vacation spot a whole lot of fun.
Higher educated baby boomers are the most likely candidates to own a second home according to a study that was conducted by Harvard University. On the report it stated that it was four times more likely that a higher educated individual would own a second home over a high school educated person.
Here are some of the benefits of having your own vacation home
1. Easily Arrange Mini Vacations
With your own vacation spot, you can quickly and easily arrange retreats without any prior planning, reservations or packing of clothes. If your vacation is set up correctly, you can go on holiday at little to no moment's notice.
2. Potential Income
Many people, who have their own vacation home, usually have a property manager who handles the weekly and weekend rental. In many vacation spots, you may have a situation where its income outstrips the mortgage payments.
Although it's possible for you to save a whole lot of money managing the property yourself. If you take the necessary steps, it's possible for you to become very successful at it.
With the right kind of attitude, it's often as much fun as it is rewarding, providing you implement the appropriate system. However, if you do decide to hire a management company, then you should ask lots of question.
However, most of the money comes from the homes appreciation over time. There was a report from a real estate journal written some years ago that said a home purchased in Utah for $485,000 resold for $945,000, only two years after its initial purchase, which is a remarkable 79% return on investment.
3. Quality Tenancy
The overwhelming majority of those who are able to rent a vacation home are usually financially free or stable and, will respect your property and are more likely to leave after their allotted time has passed. This is a breath of fresh air, especially when you consider the tenants that damage properties and create eviction issues.
4. Traditions of the Family
A family may spend a Christmas, summer or thanksgiving at their vacation spot. The time that they'll spend their together can only be categorized as priceless.
Whenever ever you arrive at your vacation home you should feel as though you've arrived at home. Make sure you adorn your holiday home with familiar items and use specific items that make you feel both settled and calm. This should make you feel relaxed, help you sleep and make visiting your vacation spot a whole lot of fun.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Cruise Holiday Deals 2010 – Be Relax with Full Enjoyment
For many regular cruise passengers, onboard entertainment is almost more important than the shore excursions. There are those who prefer something quieter and may not want spectacular floor shows, but they will still check out the talks, the demonstrations and the musical options available before booking cruise deals.
Cunard has always had a reputation for securing top-flight entertainers, eminent speakers for their lectures, and best selling writers and journalists for onboard talks.
On the Queen Mary 2 opportunities for onboard relaxation are endless. She was built for long sea voyages, so she is equipped with a wide range of entertainment to help while away the hours at sea. QM2 has a two-tier theatre, the Royal Court, which has seating for 1,100, and the productions compare favorably with the best West End shows.
Passengers with a penchant for tripping the light fantastic should head for the Queen's Room. At 134-feet wide, with one-ton chandeliers shimmering from the high ceilings the ballroom is the largest afloat, and with its glamour and size, could probably host Strictly Come Dancing.
When it's not acting as a dance venue the room becomes the setting for the captain's cocktail receptions, the ship's horse races (not real horses... they are all cardboard cut-outs) and the popular trivia contests.
As well as plenty of relaxing public lounges, for passengers who like a flutter there is the casino, and for those with champagne tastes there's the Veuve Clicquot Champagne Bar. Strategically situated between the ballroom and the theatre, what better way to start the evening than with a glass of bubbly served in a Waterford crystal flute?
Queen Victoria's Royal Court theatre has the ultimate in theatre going for passengers occupying suite accommodation - private boxes on the upper level of the theatre. Audience capacity is less than on the QM2, so with this arrangement of seating everyone has an unobstructed view of the stage.
Like her sister ships, Queen Victoria has a health club and spa with the latest beauty treatments available, and for anyone needing to burn off those extra calories there is a gym with the very latest in cardiovascular exercise machines.
For something more sedentary, the library, a striking two-deck space, lined with mahogany paneling and equipped with comfy leather furnishings, has 6,000 books to browse through, plus the services of full time librarians.
Retail therapy is always available on Cunard Cruises and on Queen Victoria 4,000 square feet of deck space has been allocated for shopping. The Royal Arcade, modelled on London's grand Regency arcades, is conveniently situated close to the Casino.
More shopping opportunities are available in the Cunardia shop attached to the Cunard Museum, where Cunard devotees can stock up on memorabilia.
The new addition to the fleet, Queen Elizabeth, will have all the entertainment, exercise, retail, and relaxation opportunities of her sister ships, with one or two unique innovations of her own, such as a bowling green and a croquet lawn using artificial grass, thus negating the need for a lawnmower.
Cunard has always had a reputation for securing top-flight entertainers, eminent speakers for their lectures, and best selling writers and journalists for onboard talks.
On the Queen Mary 2 opportunities for onboard relaxation are endless. She was built for long sea voyages, so she is equipped with a wide range of entertainment to help while away the hours at sea. QM2 has a two-tier theatre, the Royal Court, which has seating for 1,100, and the productions compare favorably with the best West End shows.
Passengers with a penchant for tripping the light fantastic should head for the Queen's Room. At 134-feet wide, with one-ton chandeliers shimmering from the high ceilings the ballroom is the largest afloat, and with its glamour and size, could probably host Strictly Come Dancing.
When it's not acting as a dance venue the room becomes the setting for the captain's cocktail receptions, the ship's horse races (not real horses... they are all cardboard cut-outs) and the popular trivia contests.
As well as plenty of relaxing public lounges, for passengers who like a flutter there is the casino, and for those with champagne tastes there's the Veuve Clicquot Champagne Bar. Strategically situated between the ballroom and the theatre, what better way to start the evening than with a glass of bubbly served in a Waterford crystal flute?
Queen Victoria's Royal Court theatre has the ultimate in theatre going for passengers occupying suite accommodation - private boxes on the upper level of the theatre. Audience capacity is less than on the QM2, so with this arrangement of seating everyone has an unobstructed view of the stage.
Like her sister ships, Queen Victoria has a health club and spa with the latest beauty treatments available, and for anyone needing to burn off those extra calories there is a gym with the very latest in cardiovascular exercise machines.
For something more sedentary, the library, a striking two-deck space, lined with mahogany paneling and equipped with comfy leather furnishings, has 6,000 books to browse through, plus the services of full time librarians.
Retail therapy is always available on Cunard Cruises and on Queen Victoria 4,000 square feet of deck space has been allocated for shopping. The Royal Arcade, modelled on London's grand Regency arcades, is conveniently situated close to the Casino.
More shopping opportunities are available in the Cunardia shop attached to the Cunard Museum, where Cunard devotees can stock up on memorabilia.
The new addition to the fleet, Queen Elizabeth, will have all the entertainment, exercise, retail, and relaxation opportunities of her sister ships, with one or two unique innovations of her own, such as a bowling green and a croquet lawn using artificial grass, thus negating the need for a lawnmower.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Family Outdoors Adventures
Trying to plan an outdoor adventure that the whole family will enjoy can be difficult. Whether it's trying to find an activity that everyone can agree on or deciding on an activity that everyone can participate in, finding the right family adventure can be elusive.
But it shouldn't have to be. There are plenty of outdoor activities geared towards creating enjoyment for larger groups of people. Listed below are a few popular outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy.
River Rafting
River rafting is an ideal family-oriented adventure. It is easy to find companies that specialize in guiding river rafting adventures for groups.
With an experienced river guide at the helm, you and your family can enjoy an exciting outdoor adventure together without worrying about renting a raft or getting lost.
Consider booking a rafting trip with an experienced guide and the family will be sure to have a great time.
Hiking
Hiking is a great outdoor sport for families because everyone can participate and you can always find trails that both adults and kids can navigate with ease. In addition, everyone in the family will get to enjoy scenic vistas, vegetation, and fresh air, all while getting a good workout. There are many resources to find the best hiking trails wherever you go.
Beach Trip
A beach trip is a perfect activity for families. Kids can enjoy playing in the sand, running through the surf, skimboarding, and many other activities.
Adults can enjoy relaxing in the sun, surfing, playing volleyball or Frisbee, and just about anything else. The possibilities for adventure at the beach are endless.
But it shouldn't have to be. There are plenty of outdoor activities geared towards creating enjoyment for larger groups of people. Listed below are a few popular outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy.
River Rafting
River rafting is an ideal family-oriented adventure. It is easy to find companies that specialize in guiding river rafting adventures for groups.
With an experienced river guide at the helm, you and your family can enjoy an exciting outdoor adventure together without worrying about renting a raft or getting lost.
Consider booking a rafting trip with an experienced guide and the family will be sure to have a great time.
Hiking
Hiking is a great outdoor sport for families because everyone can participate and you can always find trails that both adults and kids can navigate with ease. In addition, everyone in the family will get to enjoy scenic vistas, vegetation, and fresh air, all while getting a good workout. There are many resources to find the best hiking trails wherever you go.
Beach Trip
A beach trip is a perfect activity for families. Kids can enjoy playing in the sand, running through the surf, skimboarding, and many other activities.
Adults can enjoy relaxing in the sun, surfing, playing volleyball or Frisbee, and just about anything else. The possibilities for adventure at the beach are endless.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Top Beach Travel Destination - Porto De Galinhas Brazil
Easily one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil, Porto de Galinhas looks like it is straight out of a postcard. Long stretches of white sand are framed by palm trees, mangrove forests, turquoise water, and brightly colored fishing boats. In fact, the town has won the award by Voyage and Tourism for best beach in Brazil six years in a row.
Kitesurfers, surfers, divers, and sun bathers come from all over Brazil and the rest of the world to explore this beautiful stretch of coastline. One of the best features for snorkelers and divers are the ocean pools created by the reef walls, havens for sea life of all kinds. The reefs are fragile however, and some are off limits to travelers.
This playground for the Brazilian elite has a sordid past. Porto de Galinhas means Port of Chickens and this stunning beach was once the port stop for African slave merchants after Recife banned human trafficking.
Forbidden to mention the word slaves, people would instead say that there were new chickens in the port, hence the name Porto de Galinhas.
Now an expensive resort town, many travelers choose to stay elsewhere and visit Porto de Galinhas during the day. Recife is a modern and dynamic city a little over an hour away that has frequent transportation to the beach and plenty of accommodation options for about a third of what you would pay to be right on this famous beach.
Porto de Galinhas also doesn't have much in the way of nightlife, which is another reason why people choose to stay elsewhere. Recife has a vibrant and interesting nightlife with enough variety to suit every taste and budget.
If you don't want to stay in Recife, another option for accommodation near this spectacular beach is Olinda, a small colonial town located on a hill overlooking Recife. This UNESCO World Heritage site still maintains the feel of a 17th century village and has sweeping views, artist galleries, and plenty of restaurants and cafes for an evening's conversation over some wine.
Kitesurfers, surfers, divers, and sun bathers come from all over Brazil and the rest of the world to explore this beautiful stretch of coastline. One of the best features for snorkelers and divers are the ocean pools created by the reef walls, havens for sea life of all kinds. The reefs are fragile however, and some are off limits to travelers.
This playground for the Brazilian elite has a sordid past. Porto de Galinhas means Port of Chickens and this stunning beach was once the port stop for African slave merchants after Recife banned human trafficking.
Forbidden to mention the word slaves, people would instead say that there were new chickens in the port, hence the name Porto de Galinhas.
Now an expensive resort town, many travelers choose to stay elsewhere and visit Porto de Galinhas during the day. Recife is a modern and dynamic city a little over an hour away that has frequent transportation to the beach and plenty of accommodation options for about a third of what you would pay to be right on this famous beach.
Porto de Galinhas also doesn't have much in the way of nightlife, which is another reason why people choose to stay elsewhere. Recife has a vibrant and interesting nightlife with enough variety to suit every taste and budget.
If you don't want to stay in Recife, another option for accommodation near this spectacular beach is Olinda, a small colonial town located on a hill overlooking Recife. This UNESCO World Heritage site still maintains the feel of a 17th century village and has sweeping views, artist galleries, and plenty of restaurants and cafes for an evening's conversation over some wine.
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