Destination Archives - Page 31 of 44

September 30, 2013 by jfalbelda

Top Reasons To Visit The United Arab Emirates

The top reasons to visit The United Arab Emirates are many. Unlike other Arab countries, the United Arab Emirates has a very friendly relationship with foreigners and even share a long history with them. Ever since 5,500 BC, Arab people in these regions have traded with merchants from Mesopotamia as soon as they were able to domesticate camels for long distance travels. During the first century AD, the coastal land of the United Arab Emirates encountered its first maritime trade with China and India. But all its ancient wealth can never surpass its 20th century prosperity with the beginning of its oil industry in the 1950’s. The United Arab Emirates remain one of the richest, if not the richest, country in the entire Middle East and this makes it a unique place to enjoy a luxury vacation. Check out these 4 reasons why to visit the UAE!

1. The Magnificence of Palm Jumeira and World Islands

The Palm Jumeira and World Islands remains to be the most spectacular man-made island group in the world. It’s shaped into a date palm tree along the coast of Dubai. Being the first thing travelers could see from an airplane before landing, it is not surprising to consider it the first destination right after the airport.

2. Commerce: High end shopping malls or budget souks?

There are two commercial outlets that travelers can choose from for shopping. High-end and modern shopping malls which are easily found throughout all of United Arab Emirates, or, more traditional outlets like the Gold Souk and Spice Souk which offer an authentic look at what markets used to look like in the UAE.

3. Camels… Anyone can love these adorable creatures

Although the United Arab Emirates is not famous for their zoos, they are famous for their countless camel sanctuaries.. Al Ain’s Camel Farm is a place to see camels and exciting camel races. Definitely visit one of these if you’re in the UAE!

4. The journey to Buraimi Oasis

One of the most popular top reasons to visit United Arab Emirates is the day trip package to Buraimi Oasis. It is an excellent venue to experience excellent fresh foods. Sweet bananas, fresh dates and bottles of pure honey are just among the delicacies travelers can buy from the many souks. Buraimi Oasis is easily reachable by most major cities in the UAE, but check out the Emirates Palace Hotel in Abu Dhabi for easy access to Buraimi Oasis and comfortable place to return home to after.

September 29, 2013 by jfalbelda

Top Things To Do In Greece!

As a tourist, there are a handful of top things to do in Greece despite its popularity in the world. Everything that can be understood about tourism in Greece commonly revolves in one academic subject – history. As far as history is concerned, Greece was one of the countries responsible for building Western civilization in ancient times. The Greeks have been pioneers in the various academic fields; particularly philosophy, geometry, architecture, as well as the fundamentals of natural and social sciences. Greeks have influenced literature and drama in such a way that until today modern writers and film makers follow the same basic formula. However, democracy is Greece’s most powerful legacy. From the unbiased decision-making process of Athens to the bitter resistance of Sparta against foreign invasion, democracy has affected the way nations rule even today. But when it comes to tourism, history is just one of the important factors in the industry.

1. Historical explorations

The most popular among the top things to do in Greece is sightseeing around the most iconic places in the Antiquities. People who are fascinated with Greek mythology should join hikers traversing the Mount Olympus. People also visit Delphi, the temple where the famous oracle used to minister her incredible powers foresight. The Parthenon is also a very popular historical landmark in the middle of the busy metropolitan capital of Athens. It is still one of the best archaeological wonders of the ancient world in the same league with Egypt’s Great Pyramids. Somewhere further from the southern coast lie the island of Crete, where the archaeological site of the prominent Minoan culture can be found.

2. Island-hopping and scuba diving

There is more to Greece than ancient history. Thus, if there is anything non-academics would love to do in their Greek holidays, these activities include island hopping and scuba diving. Greece has a number of important atolls beyond the coastlines of the southern European mainland. These islands include Crete, Santorini, Ios, and Mykonos among many others. Island hopping and scuba diving are popular tourist activities in Greece because the beaches on these islands are of excellent ecological quality. The pale blue radiance of the sea waters reflects the clear cloudless midday skies. Crete makes a fantastic place to base your island hopping, and for unique accommodation options, try checking out VillaPlus.com.

3. Tasting the diverse local cuisine

Experiencing a fine vacation in this country is not only limited to complex tourist expeditions. In fact, one can indulge in the simple pursuit of sampling as many cultural dishes as possible. Since Greece has extensive relations with nearby foreign cultures like the Romans, Slavs, Turks and Egyptians; it is only natural to find eclectic delicacies that are identical to some of these diverse cultures. Most importantly, these foods are very appetizing!

4. Celebrating Christmas thrice

Celebrating Christmas thrice can be one of the most unique top things to do in Greece. This country has a reputation for having the most official number of Christmas days. Apart from late night 24th and day 25th of December, Greeks also celebrate Theotokos Day (Christmas dedication to the Virgin Mary).

September 27, 2013 by jfalbelda

Best Christmas Cities in Europe!

Thanks to cold weather and rich culture, celebrating Christmas in Europe can be an exceptional experience. Depending on where in Europe travelers decide visit different food, sights and experiences can all be enjoyed within the seasonal celebrations of Christmas. As Christmas is traditionally a time spent with family, many suggest that there is no better place to enjoy the festive period than at home. Whilst this may be the case markets, fairs and other celebrations often all occur weeks before December 25th allowing a keen traveler to visit multiple destinations absorbing a myriad of cultures sparkling with festive joy.

London, England

London’s markets, fairs and festive celebrations make it an appealing destination during the Christmas season. As the lights are twinkling and the Christmas tree is impeccably decorated in Trafalgar Square, the weeks leading up to Christmas in London are littered with lots of markets and events of festive cheer. In particular, Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland featuring a selection of circuses, markets and amusement rides. Along the Southbank vendors sell mulled wine, street food and small gifts serenaded by carol singers. London presents a truly magical Christmas atmosphere.

Whilst enjoying London’s sights and attractions a great place to stay in London is near Heathrow airport as it makes it easy for travelers to fly in and out, as well as hopping on the tube to anywhere in the city.

Nuremberg, Germany

Soaking up its medieval charm, visitors to Nuremberg during Christmas are in for a treat. Festivities begin with the opening of the famous Christkindlesmarkt in the city’s old quarter on the Friday before the first Sunday of Advent. Featuring over 150 wooden stalls selling traditional merchandise such as candles, spices, street food, gingerbread and handcrafted decorations, it’s difficult not to become lured into the jubilant ambiance of Germany during Christmas. There is also, of course, lots of gluwein to go around. For children, there is a separate Kinderweihnacht with a Ferris wheel, old-fashioned carousel and steam train and many markets selling sweet indulgences. Wonderfully enchanting, Nuremberg’s gothic architecture brings Christmas to life ensuring every trip is an unforgettable experience.

Prague, Czech Republic

From the beginning of November visitors to Prague can enjoy the city in the Christmas spirit. The main markets of decorated wooden huts are held in Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square. Vendors sell handcrafted products such as wooden toys, glassware and Christmas tree decorations. The markets give the local vendors an opportunity to show off traditional food and drink such as ‘Trdelnik’ a hot, sugar coated pastry and Czech mulled wine known as ‘svařák’ that can be sampled and bought. The market of the Old Town Square bringing the Nativity to life as children can stroke sheep, donkeys and goats in a Bethlehem scene stable depicting the story of Mary, Joseph and Jesus as carol singers, local choirs and bands perform Christmas songs.

Europeans are famous for celebrating Christmas by involving their history and culture. Tourists from across the world are able to immerse themselves in foreign culture and appreciate other traditions within the spirit of Christmas. There you have it, 3 of the best Christmas Cities in Europe!

September 25, 2013 by jfalbelda

Romantic breaks in and around Santa Cruz, Tenerife

A sun-drenched island is a definite winner when it comes to romantic breaks, and I think Tenerife is the perfect destination. Its year-round sunshine, gorgeous beaches and culture-filled metropolises offer something for virtually every couple, with the lovely capital of Santa Cruz being pretty hard to beat.

So, today I’ll be talking about just what this dazzling city has to offer you if romance is on your mind. Plus, I’ll take a quick peek at a few alternative destinations located nearby. Hopefully, this will give you a splash of inspiration for your getaway.

Santa Cruz

Let’s begin with Santa Cruz, Tenerife, which you’ll find on the north-eastern tip of the island. With a bustling, vibrant atmosphere, this city is full of historic charm and has retained a traditional Spanish feel, which is one of the things that makes it so great for romantic holidays. Here, you can stroll hand in hand, drinking in authentic Spain and peppering your day with stops in great restaurants and sophisticated shops.

Actually, the fact that Santa Cruz is so walking-friendly also plays a big part in making this city so great for couples. I mean, having to cram yourselves onto a crowded bus to get from one site to the next is hardly going to set the right tone, is it?

The presence of luxurious hotels helps, too. One of my favourites is the Iberostar Grand Hotel Mencey, which is near to the historic city centre. What I like about this place is that, as well as being close to the hubbub of the city and the beach, it is an oasis of tranquility – think beautiful gardens, fine dining and a piano bar.

Returning to the city itself, there’s oodles of choice when it comes to what to do. Couples can stick to the most obvious things – like discovering the stunning Santa Cruz Basilica – or head out on a more unique adventure. For instance, you could nip up to the seventh floor of El Corte Ingles to check out the amazing views across the city and port, or take a trip to the Noria district to enjoy the vibe in the trendiest bars and restaurants, like Mojos y Mojitos.

Or…

If you don’t fancy basing yourselves in the capital, there are some brilliant options nearby (these are also decent destinations for day trips from Santa Cruz, by the way).

La Laguna

La Laguna is one of my favourite choices – something that’s largely down to the fact that it’s a) wonderfully historic, and b) so little-known. Admittedly, the latter may seem like a slightly strange reason for being fond of somewhere, but I think a beautiful city that, owing to its lack of fame, is virtually tourist-free is a quite a refreshing thing – especially for couples hoping to find a little world of their own.

Once upon a time, La Laguna was Tenerife’s capital (Santa Cruz took the title in 1833). These days the city is still thriving, filled with stunning 16th, 17th and 18th-century buildings and gardens that dot the cobbled streets. As well as being beautiful and tranquil, La Laguna is a brilliant base for exploring Tenerife’s green north.

Puerto de la Cruz

I’ll finish up with Puerto de la Cruz, a lively city on the north coast. If you and your partner like the sound of a cosmopolitan destination with a good tourist infrastructure, great beaches and a decent nightlife, Puerto de la Cruz is likely to suit you down to the ground.

Like Santa Cruz, it’s got some lovely luxury hotels (like Hotel Botanico), while you’ll find charming gardens and town squares dot the city. Particular highlights include the Lido Martianez, which is full of lagoons and landscaped gardens, as well as Plaza del Charco.

This article was written by Alex Dweh. Alex is a successful travel writer with articles published on a number of notable travel websites, catering to a variety of audiences. To find out more about the destinations written about in this article visit http://www.sovereign.com/.

September 24, 2013 by jfalbelda

Top reasons to go diving in Lanzarote

Whether you have never been diving before and are in need of some lessons or are a seasoned pro, diving in Lanzarote is the place to be. It is widely considered to offer some of the best diving in the whole of the northern hemisphere.

The options are endless, with excursions from the shore and boat diving both possible, a plethora of schools to choose from and so many different sites to explore. An underwater paradise is just waiting to be found.

Book an all inclusive break – such as these – in order to keep costs down and allow you to fuel up at the beginning and end of each day’s diving. This will help to maximise your time in the water. Still not convinced that diving in Lanzarote is for you? Here are the top reasons why it might just be.

Fish

One of the main things that most people want to see when they are diving is fish. Since the waters around Lanzarote are home to some 500 species of fish you will certainly not be disappointed by the selection. On any one dive you will be surrounded by fish of every size, shape and colour imaginable.

These are likely to include barracudas, groupers, rays and angelsharks, as these fine specimens all live in this underwater world. For a really special experience head to the tiny island of Los Lobos, located between Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. This is the neighbourhood of the hammerhead shark and close encounters with this legend of the sea will make for wonderful holiday memories.

Favourable conditions

Visibility when diving in Lanzarote tends to be very good with a length of ten to 30 metres usually clear in front of you. The water temperature varies between 18 and 23 degrees Celsius, making it particularly comfortable and the weather on the surface is moderate. It is unlikely to fall below 16 degrees in winter or exceed 25 degrees in the summer months.

Amazing dive sites

Whether you prefer caves, wrecks or reefs, there are so many dive sites that you will not get bored during your holidays to Lanzarote. In fact you may find yourself coming back time and again to explore further.

The most famous dive site off Lanzarote is known as the Cathedral and is a big underwater cave, whose walls are covered in soft coral. From the Cathedral there is no view of the surface, but you can see shrimp, finger coral and glass fish within it.

The Cathedral can be reached from Playa de la Barrilla and requires divers to descend 14 metres below the surface. Bring a torch in order to explore the darkest depths of the cave and find the most unusual creatures.

Alternatively head to the marine conservation site of Los Erizos where you will find good wreck diving. Pinfish, Turkish wrasse, emperor fish, sardines, arrow crabs, groupers, barracudas, rays, tuna and angelsharks can all be found here. As each dive is different the selection you see will vary every time.

Punta Tinosa is a dive site like no other you are likely to have seen before. This reef to the south of Puerto del Carmen was created when lava flowed into the sea and solidified there. As well as the amazing contours of the rock, divers also get to see many types of fish that frequent this stretch of water.

As you can see, from family holidays to Lanzarote, or just a solo sojourn, this amazing island has more than enough to offer anyone lucky enough to visit.