On Weekends

Playa del Carmen is a peaceful city found right on the edge of the Caribbean Sea. There are several hotels there that are meant to help the guests enjoy their time in the sand and the surf.

On the border of the Caribbean Sea is a city called Playa del Carmen. Found at the north east side of Mexico, part of the state of Quintana Roo, the city is a haven of clean water, fine sand and picturesque shores. It has become known as a small and quaint city where travelers can frolic in the sea. Because of this, there are a number of hotels in the city for travelers who want to remain close to the sea.

Less than two miles from Playa del Carmen, the Iberostar Quetzal hotel stands on the fine sand of Playacar. Travelers coming in from a flight will take 50 minutes to get to the hotel from the International Airport of Cancun. The 700 rooms and suites of the Iberostar are split evenly between the Hotel Iberostar Tucan and the Hotel Iberostar Quetzal. The hotel is designed to merge with the lush surroundings of verdant green trees and the blue of the sky and ocean.

The grounds of the Iberostar Quetzal are filled with amenities and facilities that were designed to keep tourists busy and happy. The hotel is surrounded with lush gardens filled with tropical foliage. A lobby with a bar dominates the reception area, while a lounge bar, main restaurant and specialty restaurants are also found in the vicinity. Within the pool area, there is a separate kiddie pool, a pool for adults with a swim-up bar, a lagoon and an activities pool. Lounge chairs, beach towels and umbrellas surround the pool area. The hotel also features a nightclub and entertainment center, various shops and a beach club with a restaurant. Guests can also avail of Internet access and room service from 11am to 11pm.

Guests can engage in several sporting activities within the Iberostar Quetzal like billiards, aerobics, catamaran-sailing, table tennis, tennis, volleyball, windsurfing and group exercise classes. They can also use the steam bath and Jacuzzi that are adjacent to the fitness room. Trained instructors also offer scuba tutorials.

Seven minutes from downtown Playa del Carmen, one can find the all-inclusive resort called The Royal Hideaway Playacar. Situated right in the heart of Playacar, and about 45 minutes from the Cancun International Airport, the hotel has a prime spot due to it proximity to Quinta Avenida, or Fifth Avenue, the hub of Playa del Carmen’s social life.

Built in 1998, the hotel has 200 rooms and suites and 3 floors. The Royal Hideaway Playacar offers free wireless Internet connection, 24 hour room service and nightly entertainment. Guests who want to play water sports will surely love the resorts various options like kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, water polo, snorkeling, boogie board and aqua aerobics. There are also facilities that can accommodate other sports, the compound is equipped with a tennis court a basketball court and a fitness center. Board games, card games, beach soccer and bicycling are also allowed and encouraged within the premises.

The Royal Hideaway Playacar offers and all-inclusive program that includes all the major amenities offered by the hotel such as champagne, all meals and snacks, tennis lessons, daily activities programs by the beach, unlimited natural juices, soft drinks and premium alcoholic beverages and three swimming pools and three relaxation pools.

Other hotels found on the beach of Playa del Carmen are the All Riviera Resort, Costa del Mar, Grand Coco Bay All Inclusive Resort, Occidental allegro Playacar, Playa Palms, Riu Palace Mexico, Viva Wyndham Maya and the Blue Parrot Suites.

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Known as the “Lake of Heaven” the Namtso Lake lies in the north Tibetan plateau north of the main peak of the Nyainqentanglha Mountains. The lake. 4,720 meters above sea level and 55 meters deep, covers an area of 1,96 1.5 square kilometers, making it the highest of Tibet’s three largest lakes and the second largest salt lake in China.

Some two million years ago, drastic movement of the earth’s crust caused the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau to rise by a huge degree. As a result of the intense pressures exerted in this process, some strata were folded into high mountains whilst others fell, creating valleys or basins. The Namtso Lake was a result, first, of the movement of the earth’s crust. Exacerbated by glacier movement?In the lake’s early days, it had a much wider surface area and a lower elevation than it has today. The climate then was much warmer and more humid t00, and the rippling lake was just like a sea. As the earth’s crust continued to rise.SO too did the lake. Some 10,000 years ago. The plateau turned cold and dry and the lake’s water sources decreased, resulting in the lake shrinking in size. There are three shorelines around the lake, the highest of which is 80 meters higher than today’s lake shore.

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Europe has many wonderful cities with tourist attractions to suit just about every taste. The choice is by no means restricted to capitals or even to the larger cities. Many of the smaller cities offer enough things to see and do to keep a tourist absorbed for days and still wanting to return after their visit is over. To single out any one city and to say that it is better than the others would be to ignore the fact that beauty is in eye of the beholder. All that can be said is that personal experiences make some cities even more special than others. On that basis, I have described four of my personal favourites and have included my best travel tip for each one.

Amsterdam:
Amsterdam is a friendly, welcoming city that tourists usually remember most for its warm hospitality. They are also likely to remember how they spent many joyful hours wandering along the canals, admiring buildings, monuments and canal bridges without worrying too much about what or where to visit next. Amsterdam is that kind of place and needs no set travel itinerary to make it enjoyable. However there are some places that just have to be visited and probably the best travel tip for Amsterdam is not to miss visiting the Anne Frank Museum. This museum has been built inside the house where Anne Frank hid from the Nazis. The Jewish girl’s diaries record the months of confinement she spent in the cramped hiding place on the top floor. Her experiences are brought to life as you tour the house. The tour lasts for about an hour and the museum opens every day at 9.00 a.m.

Budapest
Budapest is a wonderful city in two parts, Buda and Pest, separated from each other by the Danube. There are fabulous places to see on both sides of the river, including the World Heritage site, Buda castle district.
Both parts of the city have many excellent restaurants and bars, serving food and drinks at prices well below those of most other European capitals. Budapest also has a vibrant night life, offering everything from atmospheric jazz bars and pulsating dance clubs to strip bars and sex clubs that cater for organised stag and hen party weekends.
The best travel tip for Budapest is not to miss a boat tour on the Danube. Although, some of the boat operators advertise trips at any of the year, avoid the winter months if you want to be sure of getting a good choice of cruises. Even if a cruise that is actually running can be found on a dull winter’s day, it would not be a very enjoyable experience.

Florence
Florence is many people’s idea of the most beautiful city in the world. There is so much to see in this relatively small city, that it is possible to go back there time after time and still find new things that you “must see”. Just to soak in the atmosphere of the piazzas or to stand at one of the many viewpoints overlooking Florence makes it a city to remember for the rest of one’s life. Practically every travel tip, giving advice about what to see in Florence would be a tip worth heeding if you only had time; but probably the best travel tip for Florence is to relax and to resist packing too much into the visit.

Prague
Prague has inspired many flattering descriptions most of which are justified. It is one of Europe’s most popular city-break tourist destinations and even though some of that popularity can be accounted for by its appeal to those seeking stag or hen night fun, many more flock to Prague to savour its immense treasure store of art, history and culture. Prague’s most visited tourist spot is its castle and that is certainly one attraction not to be missed. Similarly, the old town square is an essential part of every trip to Prague, making it feel as if you have stepped back over five hundred years in time. However the best travel tip for Prague is not to miss the beautiful Charles Bridge that connects the Old Town and Mala Strana. The word “Bohemian” immediately springs to mind as you soak in the atmosphere amongst the artists, actors and musicians who make their living from working their talents on this ancient stone bridge over the Vitava river.

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Switzerland is the high class jewel of Europe. This fabulous country situated in the very heart of Europe is the perfect travel destination for those who enjoy a unique blend of culture, modern sophistication and breathtaking landscapes. With the world-renown Swiss Alps and thriving cities such as Bern and Zurich, Switzerland is an all year round travel delight. From skiing and hiking to traditional folk entertainment and shopping, travel Switzerland is never a dull experience. Be sure to take a look at Switzerland Travel Guide before embarking on the vacation of your lifetime.

Although Switzerland is a medium-sized European country with a population of only 7.3 million it’s surprising how much variety it has to offer. The country is gorgeous any time of year and cities such as Zurich, Bern or Geneva should be part of your itinerary. Zurich, the financial capital of the world, is beautifully located on the tip of the Limmat River. The city’s must see attractions include the Gothic Fraumunter, the Fluntern Cemetery and the Church of Our Lady. Switzerland is also famous for its high class shopping locations such as the famous Bahnhofstrasse Street in Zurich. The historical city of Geneva also has much to offer: the world’s tallest fountain, the flower clock, the Chatedrale de St. Pierreand and the Musee de L’Horlogere - dedicated to Swiss watches. Switzerland Travel Guide offers detailed information on Switzerland accommodations, customs, attractions and costs.

The renowned Swiss Alps are definitely an important part of Switzerland’s unparalleled charm. If you’re planning to travel Switzerland during the winter season you’ll be absolutely delighted with everything it has to offer. The mountain peaks rise above 4,000m providing some fabulous skiing resorts, including St. Moritz and Klosters. Switzerland is also famous for its high class ski resorts and exceptional services. Adventure lovers will be captivated with the skiing at Matterhorn in the Zermatt region. Mount Titlis and mount Rigi are also popular tourist attractions with beautiful glaciers and capped peaks. During summer, the Swiss Alps are a natural paradise and an ideal location for hiking and sightseeing.

Switzerland is the land of fine chocolate, cuckoo clocks, wine, cheese and the famous army knives. Switzerland is also a country with exceptional history, culture and traditions. If you enjoy cultural traveling experiences, Switzerland is the perfect destination. The highly acclaimed Montreaux Jazz festival attracts thousands of tourists who enjoy good music every year. If you plan to travel Switzerland you shouldn’t leave without visiting a few of its unique museums such as the Collection de l’Art Brut museum in Lusanne. Switzerland Travel Guide will help you find all the information you need on the country’s cultural, historical and fashion hot spots. Read the rest of this entry »

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Actually, much as Galilee Sea (Kineret, in Hebrew) is fascinating, it’s mostly beautiful to look at, but not really as fascinating when you decide to step in the water. Although the legendary crocodile has already been taken away from the water, there are still a lot of water spiders, and other unpleasant underwater habitants. Let’s not forget that Galilee Sea contains no salt and you can drink the water (theoretically you can, though if you get the chance I strongly recommend NOT to drink, the water is very dirty and can simulate a nice list of disease). So, you go to Galilee See, where to stay?

The most famous spot would probably be Tibberias, a very nice city with beautiful hotels and nice old looking streets, tho bear in mind that this is the unofficial drug dealing capital of the entire Middle East, although while visiting it for the first time you’d never tell. If you want a more quite place to stay at, I’d recommend Migdal — a small town near Tibberias, very cosy, with a lot of exotic flowers, and attractions for tourists — horses riding rodeo, saunas, pools, and cimers. You won’t find cheap accommodation here, but it’s only a few minutes from Galilee Sea and if you stay somewhere up on the mountain, you can enjoy from a stunning view of the entire sea under the moon.

If you stay in Migdal, you will see the sun raising from the corner of the sea, while staying in the other side of the lake would mean you can enjoy the sun setting on Galilee Sea’s horizon…

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If you love far away from the sea and travel to a place where you know for sure you are going to find a lake, sea or ocean, be sure to collect some sea stones and to bring them home. Anyone know lives by the sea does not see much value in this rounded and smooth stones, while people who reside far away from any water source, actually buy them in special stores to decorate their bedroom’s table, bathroom or even the plants outside.

Naturally if you have a flight to take back home, staffing your suitcase with stones won’t be any wise, but grabbing a few stones you personally liked and picked while walking on the shore will make a great souvenir when you will be looking at it in a few years from now, remembering how and where you picked it up.

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As the fanfare of the festive season has died down, it is easy to feel the need to get away from the cold British winter and experience some sun. For a luxury holiday offering the requisite sunrays as well as excellent cuisine, views and different festivals throughout the year, look no further than Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka, officially known as the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, is an island nation in South Asia, located about 19 miles off the southern coast of India. With a population of around 20 million, the country is a multi-religious and multi-ethnic, with nearly a third of the population following faiths other than Buddhism, most notably Christianity, Hinduism and Islam. This multiculturalism can in part be attributed to the different rules of Sri Lanka, including colonisation by Portugal, the Netherlands and finally Great Britain. After peaceful negotiations with the British, the island nation became independent in 1948, and in 1972, the nation, then-known as Ceylon, changed its name to Sri Lanka, meaning “Resplendent Land”.

As a result of the multi-religious background, Sri Lanka is renowned for its many religious festivals. Sri Lanka offers at least one festival each month as Buddhists, Hindus, Christians and Muslims celebrate both religious and national occasions. This month, for example, the full-moon festival of Dututhu commemorates the visit of Lord Buddha to Kelankya, the temple of Kelania. The Hindu community meanwhile celebrates the harvest festival of Thai Pongal, where homes are cleaned and decorated, farm animals bathed and sometimes adorned, and special dishes prepared. The sizeable Muslim community celebrate the end of the fasting month of Ramadan, roughly every 11 months, with prayers in mosques, distribution of alms, family-oriented celebrations and the enjoyment of traditional dishes. In addition, there are several national holidays, such as the Sri Lankan New Year, celebrated every year between 12-14 April, to ensure good fortune in the coming year. Amongst the traditional rituals undertaken, houses are spring cleaned, new clothes worn and newly harvested rice cooked in milk in new pots. Traditional games and music are enjoyed, and passing visitors are invariably invited to join in the celebrations. These are merely some of the many festivals held throughout the year, with further information being available from the Sri Lanka Tourist Board. Read the rest of this entry »

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To get a good idea of what Czech Republic is, there is a thing you have to do besides visiting its capital, Prague: you should take a tour around the country, visit its towns and old castles.

To do this, you don’t have to go far from Prague. The most beautiful of all the Czech castles, Karlstejn, is located only 33 km south-west of the city. As seen from its name, the history of this castle is connected with the name of Charles IV – it is for him that this unassailable fortress was erected in the XIV century. Karlstejn (or Karlstein) stands on a high rock above the Berounka river. A wonderful view observed from here makes tourists grab their cameras and forget about what the guide says. Meanwhile, Karlstejn was not only the king’s residence, but also the place for safekeeping royal treasures. Royal regalia were kept in the Chapel of the Holy Cross, walls decorated with precious jewellery and Gothic panel paintings by Master Theodoric.

While Karlstejn belonged to the king himself, other castles were the property of local aristocracy. After the so-called Velvet Revolution some castles were returned to their former owners. One of them is Cesky Sternberg, built in the 13th century, whereas in XVIII it was rebuilt in Baroque style. The castle boasts of its antique interiors, walls adorned with huge paintings and hunting trophies. At the same time, while walking around the castle, you feel ill at ease – this is a private property and you feel like you’re having an excursion around someone else’s flat. The excursion is guided by some relative of the castle’s owner, who lives in its other part. Still, you get the feeling that the old duke will appear soon, and its even hard to believe that you live in the XXI century!

Each castle has its story, its zest. For instance, Konopiste castle, built in the XIV century keeps the largest European collection of armory and medieval weapons. For a period of time, the castle belonged to Franz Ferdinand of Austria, who was assassinated in Sarajevo – this triggered World War I. The historical castle is located about 45 km from Prague and is surrounded with an English rose garden.

Those who are assured that the only thing you can find in Czech Republic is beer should visit Melnik town and its castle, famous wine-making sites. In XIV century king Charles IV brought vine from Burgundy, and since then, wine was produced in Melnik. Nowadays visitors to the castle wine cellars can try excellent wine and hear its story. The castle is situated 35 km north of Prague.

Castles not far from Prague are often visited by tourists, but only those who value real beauty venture for a trip to remote castles. Lets move to the south of Czechia, as it is here that you can feel national diversity. There are many beautiful cities in this region which you are advised to visit whenever you have a chance to: Tabor, Ceske Budejovice, Cesky Krumlov and many others.
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This large country whose capital, Mexico City, is one of the largest countries in the world and also boasts of a lot of wonders. If you are a nature-tripper who would love to spend your time on the beach or on the green, Mexico will appeal to your taste. If you fancy ancient architecture, you would be pleased to know that Mexico is just the right place for you.

1.) Rio Grande Rivers

Rivers are abundant in Mexico. The biggest of the Mexican rivers and of all the rivers in the world is the Rio Grande. It serves as a separator between Mexico and the USA, and it is also known as Rio Bravo in Mexico, a river that is popular for thrill-seeking tourists.

2.) Sierra Madre Occidental and Sierra Madre Oriental

There are two mountain ranges that run across Mexico, and these are Sierra Madre Occidental and Sierra Madre Oriental. Both are known for their majestic height and beauty. While here, make sure that you take a visit to this place for you to see these mountain ranges.

3.) Oaxaca Plateau

Situated in Oaxaca in Southwest Mexico, the Oaxaca Plateau is more than just a wonder of nature. It is also where the early Zapotecs, one of the predecessors of the Mexicans, built an ancient city. As such, Oaxaca Plateua remains to be one of Mexico’s greatest treasures.

4.) Isla Mujeres

You will be excited to know that the Caribbean Sea is actually a nearby neighbor of Mexico. Isla Mujeres is one of those beautiful islands whose beauty is partly thanks to the Caribbean seas. Aside from a perfect place to sunbathe, Isla Mujeres was also actually part of the Mayan civilization.

5.) Internationally recognized beaches

Beaches are aplenty in Mexico. You will definitely want to visit at least one of the Mexican beaches - prided by the Mexicans for its pristine waters and precious sand. These beaches are good places for you to hang out, sunbathe or swim in.

6.) Bull fighting

The Mexicans have this rich cultural heritage that has been remarkably well preserved. Until now, traditional practices such as the bull fighting are still being exercised. You will do well to witness at least one of these cultural events.

7.) Day of the Dead or El Dia de los Muertos

Mexicans love to celebrate, and one of their most cherished celebrations is the El Dia de los Muertos, a day meant to commemorate the people who have passed over. The celebration is marked with a festive mood. Colorful costumes, food and flowers mark this event.

8.) Nuestra Señora del Carmen

The cathedrals in Mexico are of high value, just as much as religion is a big part of a Mexican’s life. Your visit to Nuestra Señora del Carmen will grant you witness to the “Doorway of the Archangels.” This is a world-famous altarpiece that is alluded to as the doorway of the angels.

9.) Maya City of Tulum

Marvel at the beauty and glory of Mayan civilization through the ruins of their city. You can find this in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. Aside from ancient and well-preserved structures, the Maya City of Tulum is also where you can find preserved objects and tools used by the ancient people of Maya. Read the rest of this entry »

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Brazil is a country that is full of life and full of color. Because of its heritage and culture, this has also become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. This country has become a popular honeymooner’s choice because of the variety of sights and sounds that Brazil can give to any tourists, and here are the ten must-go-to places if you are going to Brazil.

1.) Rio’s Hunchback.

Anybody who wants to go to Brazil should visit the famous statue of Christ the Redeemer. This is a famous landmark in Brazil, and anybody can enjoy the magnificent sight this can give them. Along the way, one can always enjoy nature such as the diverse flowers and the butterflies.

2.) Iguazu Falls.

If you want nature at its best, then why not go bike riding along Iguazu Falls. This is a magical place to behold as it is always a beauty to see a permanently shining rainbow through the falls’ mist. This is also a great way to see Brazil’s wildlife.

3.) Amazon.

Nothing beats exploring the Amazon jungle. There is so much to see in this wilderness that any other country will pale in comparison. Here, you will get to see animals native to Brazil as well as the huge diversity of its trees and flowers, truly a magnificent sight to behold.

4.) Rio de Janeiro.

What better way to see Rio de Janeiro than to hang-glide and enjoy a bird’s eye view of this great place from above. From a peak in Pedra Bonita in Gavea, you get to soar above the wonderful place and see the forests below. After you are done hang-gliding, then why not visit Sco Conrado’s equally beautiful beaches?

5.) Pantanal.

Pantanal is a great place to visit if you want to see a plethora of sea life. Take a horse-riding tour of the area to see more of its creatures. Or, you can always explore the area on your own.

6.) Aquario Natural.

This is a great place to visit if you want to go snorkeling. Here, you will see a vast variety of wonderful and vibrant tropical fishes. You can also visit Rio Sucuri where you will surely be captivated by the wonderful sight of its waters and the clear skies.

7.) Chapada Diamantina Read the rest of this entry »

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