Holidays Guide

South Pacific Island in the Caribbean Sea

St Lucia would be just at home in the South Pacific, but it resides in the southeastern Caribbean Sea, and is part of the Windward Islands.

Just north of Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago lies a tropical paradise equal to the Pacific islands of Tahiti and Fiji. The calm waters of the Caribbean Sea which is usually compared to the color turquoise, appears to be royal blue around the island of St Lucia. No doubt this is due to the fact this is a volcanic island unlike the coral islands of the Caribbean basin.

Old ship records speak of how captains and sailors alike were awed by the sighting of St Lucia. Perhaps this is why the island was fought over and changed hands 14 times in its history. Two countries, England and France fought 14 battles back and forth to gain control of the island. The English eventually won the war, but France won the battle since the island is definitely French in culture.

The most photographed scene in the Caribbean and landmark of St Lucia are Petit Piton and Gros Piton. These two enormous volcanic mountains are covered with lush green vegetation and rise over 2,600 feet above the sea, and 1,000 feet below. Soufriere, located at the base, is where the jungle meets the royal blue sea. The majestic twin Pitons greet you at every turn while on the island - such an awesome sight!

As a comparison among its Caribbean neighbors, the only two that come close to St Lucia’s beauty is Dominica (the nature island), and the interior of the island of Jamaica. St Lucia boasts a variety of exotic black sand beaches, tropical birds, plants and flowers. Everywhere you turn, and on each island adventure there is just more beauty to be seen. I attempted to capture the island on picture, but the color intensity and depth was lacking more than often. While family and friends remarked at how beautiful our vacation pictures were, I knew the true essence of the island needs to be seen in person.

This is an island to be explored with nature walks, mountain hikes, visits to the natural reserves, boat trips to nearby island sanctuaries, drive through the world‘s only “drive through volcano, and a trip to the interior rainforest is a must! About the drive through volcano - you literally drive through the crater to over 15 pools of thick black bubbling lava. The smell is a bit overwhelming. In this region you will also find green and yellow sulfur steam coming up out of the ground, and pools of hissing steam - You can definitely feel the heat from the ground, and guides lead you around the hot stones.

Another interesting site outside of Soufriere is Diamond Waterfall and the Mineral Baths. Louis XVI sent a sample of the mineral water to France back in the late 1700’s to be tested, and it was deemed beneficial. We had a lovely time at the Mineral Baths, and admit I felt quite invigorated afterwards. Diamond Waterfall is near the baths, and this rivals many of the waterfalls on the island of Jamaica - simply beautiful!

The lush mountainous region is home to the rain forest which offers lush and colorful foliage. As you venture into the northern part of the island, mountains turn into lush hills, and orchards of banana, coconut, mango, citrus and papaya trees.

Aside from land tours, a half day or one-day sail around the island is recommended. From a small peninsula that extends from the southern tip of the island you can view where the rough Atlantic Ocean meets the calm Caribbean Sea. On a clear day you can even spot the tiny island of St Vincent. Another location advantage is you easily island hop to the islands of Martinique, Dominica and Guadeloupe.

The Eastern or Windward side of the island is on the Atlantic coast, and has big waves and surf, and swimming is not recommended, but the ocean views will be remembered far after your vacation is over.

The Western, or Leeward island side, is located on the Caribbean Sea, and the waves and waters are quite calm, and most of the beachfront resorts on located on this side of the island.

No matter which side of the island you choose, you will find the constant cooling trade wind breezes coming off the coast of Africa.

Getting to St Lucia can be challenging time wise depending on where you are starting from. Expect a minimum 5-6 hour trip from North America. One important aspect in booking your vacation is the proximity of the hotel to the airport. St Lucia has two airports, and the major airport (Hewanorra) on the southern tip of the island is where most of the air traffic from North America is directed. The smaller airport (George Charles) to the north of the island serves most of the smaller Caribbean air carriers. Of course the majority of the best known hotels are located on the north of the island.

Flying into Hewanorra airport on the southern end, and booking a hotel or resort on the northern end can result in a long 2 hour trip. Rather than look at the travel time to the hotel with dread, consider it a prime opportunity for an enjoyable island tour. The mountain route offers a more scenic view of the magnificent Pitons. The eastern route is faster, and you wind through hundreds of banana groves, and beautiful scenery. Take your pick, but I recommend the longer western route.

St Lucia is home to some of the most unique resorts, charming inns, guesthouses and romantic hideaways in the Caribbean. Two of the most unique are Ladera and Anse Chastanet.

Ladera offers an open wall concept with your own private pool. The western side of each unit is open to the view of the Pitons. It’s like staying in a luxury tree house, and as they said “the only thing separating you from nature is the netting on your bed”.

Anse Chastanet is a luxury mountaintop retreat where every room offers something different - no two are alike. Most rooms are scattered in the lush hillside, and a few more expensive rooms are located on the beach. Be forewarned there are nearly 100 steps to the beach from the hillside.

Jalousie Plantation is located beneath the Pitons, and offers a very romantic, private location that is hard to match anywhere in the Caribbean. Another choice is the Windjammer Landing with your own secluded villa in a Mediterranean styled village setting.

The smaller hotels of Rodney Bay which are Caribbean Jewell, Coco Kreole, and Coco Palm offer a location that is within walking distance to shopping, restaurants and nightlife. Reduit beach is one of the prime attractions of Rodney Bay, which is also home to the European yachting community. Each of these smaller hotels has a unique charm, excellent service and moderate prices.

There are approximately eight all inclusive on this small island. Many Caribbean islands offer all inclusive properties where visitors are isolated and spend most of their time. St Lucia all inclusive celebrate the islands beauty and attractions, and make every effort to promote the islands beauty and culture. The most popular all inclusive are Sandals - which offers three different resorts, the Body Holiday Spa Resort, and Rendezvous - a popular, romantic couples only resort.

The beaches of St Lucia offer as much variety as the lush vegetation. There are black sand beaches where the sand is courser, soft white sand beaches, beaches of beige-grey and brown. One thing to remember - black sand heats up much faster than white sand, and your feet can get burned and blistered.

While the island is French in culture, English is widely spoken in the business and tourist areas. Elsewhere you will hear Creole, along with a French patois. The Creole spoken on the island is derived from the original slaves mixing their African language, along with French words. There is even a national holiday where every St Lucian is encouraged to speak Creole, and prepare Creole food dishes.

If you’re used to the typical steel drums and calypso of the Caribbean, you will find the French Caribbean has a taste for Zouk, African drumming, and also Soca. The French Caribbean is not as reserved as the islands with a British influence, and the English lyrics are quite explicit about current social norms - in other words you may be a little shocked at what you hear.

Zouk is a Creole word for “party”, and is upbeat tempo with layered percussions and loud brass. You’ll hear Zouk mostly in the French Caribbean islands of St Lucia, Martinique and Guadeloupe. The beat is infectious, and you can’t help but dance or at least tap your feet.

Soca is a combination of calypso with a more up-tempo beat, and interestingly enough has its origins in a combination of calypso mixed with Indian rhythms from Trinidad and Tobago.

Not your typical Caribbean island! If I had to sum up what’s special about St Lucia, I would conclude the following - An exotic island paradise with unique resorts and romantic hideaways, great beaches, hiking, sailing and deep sea fishing. Also the island’s steep coastlines and excellent reef system offers world class snorkeling and scuba diving.

Linda Thompkins, Owner/Travel Consultant Travel 2 the Caribbean http://www.travel2thecaribbean.com

China Business Travel 101

Ever wondered if you could deal directly with manufacturers... in China?! It's easier than you think.

First Impressions:

I visited China in Autumn 2005 with a group of business associates and must admit that I was amazed, both by the warm reception we received wherever we went, and at the factories we toured. Having never been there before, and having only news accounts of “difficulties” between China and the U.S. to fuel my imagination, I assumed things would be overly formal and official at best… at worst, cold… and we would be “watched” constantly. I was so wrong on both counts. We were treated as welcome visitors and had only to ask the hotel staff for something to have it almost magically produced.

Lost in Translation:

Outside of the hotels and manufacturing facilities, doing business in the streets and in small shops was, at most times, terribly difficult. We had arranged our factory visits and business meetings with our contacts in China, and there were no problems on that side when it came to language. But once we stepped out on our own, we rarely found anyone – even in tourist gift shops – who could communicate in English at all. Next time I visit China, I’ll hopefully be armed with a few more basic Mandarin phrases, but for everyone visiting, even just for leisure, I’d recommend hiring translators to assist you.

Cash in China:

Another word of warning: business owners back home in the States may be suitably impressed by your Gold Card, but to the Chinese shopkeeper it's just a pretty piece of plastic that won't buy a cup of Chinese tea. Even in the large cities, you’re going to have to carry around Chinese Yuan (aka Renminbi) in cash if you want to be able to go shopping or eat at a restaurant. I have to say, the upside of this is that you won’t find yourself going over budget. But with the incredibly low Chinese retail prices, that probably wouldn’t happen anyway.

Low Retail Prices:

Once you've overcome the communication difficulties you'll be amazed to find the bargains you'll find in the small shops. For a start, it's an electronics paradise. Just make sure you do your homework on what will and won't work back in the States. Of course it is easy to load yourself up with personal purchases, but the real value is getting even more ideas of attractive products to start selling back home.

Factories in China:

Our visit to a manufacturing plant in Huizhou left us all . . . well, 'impressed' hardly seems like a strong enough word. The building, on the outside was sort of drab looking with banners hanging here and there but inside was quite a different story. First of all we were treated as if we were VIPs instead of mid-level managers from Kenosha. Most importantly, however, the level of automation in this factory was remarkable, even by American standards and, when you look at the numbers, you see that the productivity is really impressive. It's no longer a mystery to this American why China is finding such a willing market in America.

Back Again:

I wish I had more than the seven days we were able to stay in China, but it won’t be long before I’m back, this time with a group of my friends who have been listening to me talking about the business opportunities since I got back… and who now want to go out there to get a piece of the action for themselves.

Sarah Fairfax visited China 2005 and sent this testamonial to Chinavasion. For free information on how you can go to China and start buying direct from chinese suppliers visit this site: http://www.chinavasion.com/travel.php

Central America Travel Guide

The Central American countries stand out from the rest of Americas. There rich history and breathtaking scenic beauty makes them the favorite place to visit all the year round. With a blend of south and North America the countries like Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama etc. give the continent the finishing touches and add to the diversity of the Americas. The area is always buzzing with activity since ages. The natural and tectonic activity used to shake the place in the ancient times. The rich history of the place reminds the people of the numerous settlements that took place in the region and today the political scene in these countries is ever dynamic. Thus the over all profile of the place is quite versatile and inviting.

On of the main features of the place are remains of the historically important Mayan civilization. It made a substantial part of the Central American history and still the reminiscent of the past stand as majestic as they might have been. The tourists are filled with a gush of adrenaline when they walk through the corridors of the ancient Mayans. The central markets of the city stand in all their grandeur majesty. The ruins show that the city was an urban hub and the people were pursuing agriculture as their main occupation. They were socially advanced people and their urban centers were the venues for dancing singing and many recreational activities. One can hear the echoes of the past standing in the middle of the large citadels.

The advancement in the Central American region is mainly due to the buzzing political scene and the awareness about the rights. The people are highly conscious about the protection of environment and great efforts are put in to preserve the rich environmental heritage. The Central American countries have entered in to a free trade pact as per which they are to let the others allow certain facilitations of trade in their trade. Popularly known as the CAFTA, it has proved to be a boon to the countries’ economies.

The Central American region is known for its volcanic abundance. Each country homes many volcanoes and many of them have erupted in the recent past. The tectonic rumblings are commonplace and it creates a lot of alarm in the people’s minds. The volcanoes are one feature that distinguishes the region form the rest of Americas and it adds to the mystic and magical image of the Central America.

But there’s one threat that has caused a lot of trouble in the region. The trade of drugs has entangled the region in to the grip of heavy crime. The world’s greatest drug trade can be found in this region. The roots of this criminal activity are deep seated and it has caused a lot of disturbance at the local level. But the comforting fact is that the regions attraction is overpowering on the drug threats. And the travelers are not threatened by these and keep on coming to the place with all zeal. And in the years to come this region will catch up with the rest of the world.

Mansi aggarwal writes about central america travel. Learn more at http://www.centralamericatraveller.com

Egyptian Travel Guide

The land of the Pharaohs. The child of the Nile. Call it by any name but the mystic land never ends to attract the greatest people to it. It’s the country, which is home to the oldest civilization of the world. The magnanimity and the grandeur of the Egyptian civilization is what make it the traveler’s paradise. The popularity of the place is mainly because of the great pyramids at Giza. These architectural and construction wonders have made a firm footing in the list of the Seven Wonders of the World. And that is not all. The pyramids are present at other places too. The famous statue of the Sphinx is also there in Giza. The fertility of the Nile Basin is the main reason why the greatest civilization could thrive there.

The capital city of Cairo is also an international hub now. The city is a smooth blend of culture and modernization. The city has the greatest business centers and the best infrastructure in the country. Ancient museums and art galleries adorn this city. The city holds the distinction of being the oldest in the world. The best way to travel around the city is on foot. This gives the inquisitive tourist ample time to see each structure. But for the people wit less time, transportation is easy in the city. Many mosques are there and they give an impression of the grandeur of architecture.

The great desert surrounds the country and the most important sources of life in the desert are the oases. These are the fertile lands in the middle of the desert, which are used for agriculture and cultivation. They are the cradles of life in the very challenging weathers of the desert. The Dakhla, the Siwa are some of the oases locations where the Egyptian people cultivate. The nomads of the desert find a resting place in the oases. The Foyum is a large oasis and is the source of salt. Many tourists from Islamic and non-islamic countries come to visit the country.

Mount Sinai is one of the sacred spots of the country. It was the place where Moses gave the famous TEN COMMANDMENTS to his disciples and explained them the message of the God. The place is known for its religious importance. The place is lined by the Red Sea, which houses very beautiful coral reef, and it offers fantastic geographic beauty. Apart from the religious pursuits the city also offers the best shopping hubs and showrooms. The city is never short of new things to show. But the spots of religious and historical importance remain the most visited. There are many water parks that offer joy rides and other entertainment offers. The cities of Egypt are always bustling with activity and the bird watchers can find the natural beauties around Lake Nasser. The country fulfills all the expectations of the visitors completely. The most important point remains the preservation of the cultural heritage and that had to in the hands of the residents.

Mansi aggarwal writes about egyptian travel Learn more at http://www.adventuretoegypt.com

Don't Miss These Sights When You Travel to Italy

Italy is a breathtakingly beautiful country that will always be one of the highlights for anyone's travel to Europe. It has everything from the impossibly blue Mediterranean Sea to the spectacular Alps, with fabulous food at every stop along the way. And while you are there, you can't help but trip over history with every step you take. Here are few things you cannot miss when you travel to Italy:

--Venice. Think about it. How many movies have you seen that were set in this romantic city? Well there is a reason. If there is a city with more charm and magic than Venice, someone is keeping it a very tight secret. (Oh sure, I can just hear those Parisians objecting that their's is the most romantic city, but those folks are hardly objective. Besides, this is an article about Italy.) The "streets" are waterways and the city is gradually sinking into the Adriatic Sea. But don't worry, it will still be there by the time you get there to see it all.

--The Roman Colosseum.Talk about the original home for extreme games. You can almost hear the ghosts of gladiators clashing their swords and signing multi-drachma contracts with their agents. The Colosseum is both a spectacular and grim place, considering the many senseless acts of violence that occurred here. Kind of like the beauty pageants are today.

--Florence. If you aren't already an art lover, you will be after visiting Florence. Walk in the footsteps of Michelangelo, Da Vinci and Raphael and your life will be forever changed. One word of warning however, if you are already prone to feelings of penis envy or inadequacy, Michelangelo's 18-foot statue of David, may not be your cup of tea.

--The Vatican. The art, architecture, history and sheer aura of this place will leave you speechless.

C.H. Brown is a former attorney who now spends his time indulging his passion for travel and shares the unique travel destinations and unbeatable travel bargains he uncovers on his blog, Guerrilla Traveler - Adventure on a Budget, http://www.guerrillatraveler.blogspot.com

Nova Scotia Travel Guide

The international tourists might not know it but Nova Scotia is the fast up coming destination for the avid travelers. Located in the main land of Canada, it offers never-ending expanses of greenery and lots of water inlets to make it the ultimate fishing ground. Since 1604 when John Cabot found it out it has been a teeming ground for fresh water fishing. This fits well the Canadian social culture. During the 17th century the Scottish and the French businessmen traded here in fur. The Scottish influence is evident from the name it self which means ‘New Scotland’.

The tradition of the place is highly influenced by the sea and the place is studded with museums and galleries singing the lore of the seafaring individuals form the land. The feeling one gets there is nostalgic and it takes one back into the annals of ancient mariner lifestyles. The ton of beaches in the place and the scenic beauty is good enough to attract people from all around the world. The place has taken due advantage of its proximity to the sea. The surfers have actually set up, in the place, the host for the major surfing events of the world. The life saving competitions is also held along its coast lines and that has made the place a lot more popular then other coastal destinations.

As a mark of respect to the discoverer of the place, the longest travel around Nova Scotia is called the ‘Cabot trail’. The approximately 180 mile long tour of the city covers many parts and is a trip worth taking. The natural structures and the golf courses en route the trip are a pleasure watching. An amazing fact about the place is that it is because of this place that the telephone technology has developed. The place is the home land of Graham Bell. He invented the telephone.

The capital city of Halifax is the witness of the people dead in the Titanic Disaster in 1912. The bodies were brought to Halifax and the place has numerous cemeteries resting the victims of the disaster. Apart from having the historical account of almost half-a-century the city is a growing hub of modernization and an upcoming destination for development. With the advancement of Canada the place is getting much required attention.

One of the most fascinating things to see in Nova Scotia is the lighthouses around the place. Standing as the custodians of rich marine history, they stand tall to help the lone ships that loose their path in the confusing seas. The light houses provide an extraordinary sight and most tourists are attracted by them. To keep them in good shape an organisation to maintain them has also been formed. A customized tour is also designed to take the tourists to all the major lighthouses. The tour is almost along the coast line and offers much thrill to the visitors.

The cultural influence of the French and the Scottish is evident around the place. A delicate balance between the two existed for a long time and keeping in view the rich heritage and the growth prospects it is no more there. Thus Nova Scotia is truly an out of the world experience to the tourists.

Mansi aggarwal writes about Nova Scotia travel. Learn more at http://www.novascotiatouring.com

Tips For Hawaii Travel

Hawaii is a tropical paradise that is often frequented by travelers. A popular vacation, Hawaii travel has much to offer visitors. The sandy beaches and beautiful ocean views are only part of what makes Hawaii an ideal destination. Hawaii offers a great local environment and is known for their friendly hospitality. There are some important things a traveler must know before hitting the beaches in Hawaii to make their stay the best it can be.

Clothing: Hawaii has a casual atmosphere where comfort is the style. Clothing is usually loose and flowing. The climate varies throughout the islands, but this loose style will be welcomed and comfortable no matter where a traveler goes.

Weather: Hawaii usually had high’s in the 80’s and night time lows in the 60’s or 70’s throughout the year. The sun can get very strong and sunscreen protection is recommended. Rain is not too big of a hassle on the islands as the rainiest time of year is from October to May and when it does rain it does not usually do so for long periods of time.

Customs: Hawaiians are famous for their hospitality. Lei’s are given to visitors as a symbol of friendship. Hawaiian language is easy to pronounce as each syllable is simply sounded out. Visitors will see native language all over on signs and in shops. Restrooms are usually labeled Wahine for women and Kane for men. Rubber sandals are the most popular footwear and shoes of any kind should be removed upon entering a home.

Warnings: As an island in the ocean, Hawaii faces some threats of severe weather. There is a system on the island that all travelers should be familiar with when visiting. Sirens in combination with radio and television warnings alert people to tsunami’s, hurricanes, windstorms and other severe weather conditions. Directions given through the warning system should be followed.

These helpful tips for Hawaii travel will help a person get the most out of their Hawaiian vacation. This beautiful US state offers a tropical and safe atmosphere that makes for a wonderful visit.

About the author: Stephen Kreutzer is a freelance publisher based in Cupertino, California. He publishes articles and reports in various ezines and provides Hawaii travel information on Your Hawaii Vacation!

Want An Effortless Education? Travel Often

Whether you are an adventurous traveler who scales mountains and hikes through jungles or you are a lover of creature comforts who lives for five star hotels, travel will teach you some of life's great lessons. It does not matter if you were born a beach bum or are an art enthusiast travel will enrich your life.

Whether you prefer traveling in groups or going it alone, if you are a planner or spontaneous your life will benefit by traveling away from what you know. You don't have to go far, you may or may not cross oceans, take a plane, train or car the important thing is that you explore the world outside of your community.

What will you discover?

Look at the familiar through new eyes: Travel to a place you know well with someone who has never been there before. On a trip to Pittsburgh, where I grew up, my niece and her boyfriend showed me a city full of unique and charming old neighborhoods, museums dedicated to things such as ketchup, Andy Warhol and the birth of the labor movement. I also saw that the view of the three rivers from Mount Washington is as beautiful as any large city vista.

We are small: Walk through the redwood forests in California or hike through Rocky Mountain National Park and you will discover just how small we are.

There are more similarities than differences: Stand on the shore in Nova Scotia, Canada and then the coast of Brittany in France you will notice the similarities in the landscape and the people even though these two places are separated by an ocean.

You can be someone else: I have had people think I was Dutch in Lucca, Italy and Quito Ecuador, French in Venice and German in Rome. In fact the only place people absolutely know that I am American is in Canada. It is fun to play along and see where it takes you.

Food can be part of your adventure: You will find that pretty food is not always good and ugly food is not always bad. It is not the wine that is important it is the new and old friends that you share it with that is important.

You can be happier if you strike out on your own: If you are traveling with a group you do not need to do everything your companions do. Some people have an amazing capacity for art museums, others prefer churches and still others can walk for miles without a break. After spending a week in France looking at buildings designed by the architect Corbusier, I finally rented a car and went to San Tropez. Everyone was happier after that.

Rain is beautiful too: The sun does not have to shine to make a place beautiful; standing in the rain in a rain forest is as beautiful as sitting in the sun in Portofino.

Beauty is all around you, just look and see: Treat yourself to the colors in the landscape in New Mexico and the lack of contrast between the water, ice and landscape on a cloudy day in Newfoundland.

New York City is not the US, Paris is not France: You learn not to judge a country by one city - New York City is not representative of the United States and Paris is not representative of France.

Old is a state of mind: In some countries old is measured in thousands of years in other countries it is measured in hundreds of years. In people, old is a state of mind, if you are young look around you at older travelers who are walking the same paths as you only with canes and walking sticks often with a smile on their face.

When disaster strikes: Traveling makes you feel empathy when disaster strikes. How many people cried after Hurricane Katrina remembering the people they had met in New Orleans or Biloxi? The tourist trade helped revive the economy of Southeast Asia after the tsunami hit in 2004.

Imagine: Take a break and imagine what daily life is like in the place you are visiting, and then think of what it was like a hundred years ago or a thousand years ago.

If someone asks you to sing then sing!: Step outside your comfort zone, try to speak the language, if people are singing join in.

Smiles translate: If in doubt smile, they mean the same thing in every language. Chances are you will be rewarded with a smile in return.

No amount of reading books, watching TV or listening to music can replace the experience of getting up off your couch and going to see it all for yourself. You will never look at the world in the same way again.

Travel author Jackie Willey enjoys discovering fun places to visit that many tourists miss. Subscribe to her blog mailing list at Amore Travel Guides and Discover Walking for more free information.

Historic Hotels in Barcelona

Barcelona has been dubbed La Gran Encisera – the Great Enchantress. With its medieval romantic style, it’s hustle and bustle and the history and art; it’s a great destination spot for travelers.

Many of the historic hotels are located in the Gothic Quarter, a stretch of streets with a romantic gothic style, making the hotels’ locations convenient to sight seeing areas.

Tip to a Better Rate in a Historic Hotel in Barcelona

If you find yourself in Barcelona in a time that it is not busy and your hotel is not so full, you can usually bargain for a better rate. Business travelers can often get up to forty percent off the suggested price. Talk with the hotel attendants; don’t be afraid to ask for a discount.

Suggested Historic Hotels in Barcelona

While there are many beautiful historic hotels in Barcelona, one of the most convenient ones is the Hotels Condes De Barcelona. With over 150 guest rooms, each with an avant-garde style, the hotel is uniquely situated in a historic Nouveau building. The artistic beauty is astounding and each piece inside the hotel is customized specifically for the hotel. Located in the center of the city, it offers the convenience of public transportation for guests and is within walking distance to some of the city’s most popular destinations.

Another grand hotel is the Hotel Gotico. The deluxe hotel is a short distance from El Prat Airport, it is located in the heart of the city center and the Town Hall and the Palice of Autonomic Government. With it’s location right in the middle of the commercial district, a traveler will find everything they could want to see near by. With renovated soundproofed rooms, you’ll get a good night of sleep and the history of the hotel will keep the adventure of visiting Barcelona alive. Ask for a complimentary tour or ask about suggestions of sights to see in the city. The staff is knowledgeable and helpful.

For a moderate priced hotel, the Mesón Castilla offers a Castilian fascia. For the best atmosphere this small hotel offers a convenient position to shops. It offers attractive views of the city and modest sized rooms. Its antique filled interior offers a history of its own.

How to Pick the Right Historic Hotel in Barcelona

When you travel to Barcelona, picking the right hotel for you may be important. If you are going to be in Barcelona for a short while, it would be better to select one that is closer to the areas of the city you plan to see. Having your hotel closer to your sightseeing destinations makes it convenient to get there and back from your hotel.

If you plan to stay longer and see much more of Barcelona, you might consider reservations at two hotels, one on one side of the city for the first part of your trip and another hotel on the latter part and on the other side of the city. This lets you enjoy two different hotels within the tourist areas of Barcelona, making it even more enjoyable.

For more historic hotel suggestions, contact your travel agent or visit Turisme de Barcelona.

Fionn Downhill is President of Four Corners Hotels offering hotels in cities around the world. To find out more about hotels in Barcelona visit http://www.fourcornershotels.com/index.php/ES--Barcelona

Celebrate Black History in Baltimore

From Frederick Douglass to Eubie Blake, African Americans have blazed a distinguished trail through Baltimore. Visitors to this charming East Coast port city can explore a history of unparalleled achievement and inspiration on a remarkable journey through its many African American treasures.

One great place to begin a visit is the National Great Blacks In Wax Museum, housing more than 100 life-size wax figures—including Frederick Douglass, Harriett Tubman and Benjamin Banneker—presented in dramatic and historical scenes. A most compelling highlight is the dramatic walk through the museum’s replica slave ship, complete with Middle Passage history. Then journey through 400 years of African American history at the new Reginald F. Lewis Museum of African American History & Culture, the largest of its kind on the East Coast. With interactive permanent exhibitions, exciting changing exhibitions and engaging programs, the museum is fast becoming a major regional attraction.

At the Eubie Blake National Jazz Museum and Cultural Center, check out the assortment of memorabilia and artifacts honoring the Baltimore-born composer and pianist, as well as highlights of other Baltimore jazz greats like Cab Calloway and Chick Webb. Then uncover keys to Baltimore's past and future at the Orchard Street Church. Founded in 1825, legend has it the church was a stop on the Underground Railroad—it still has an escape tunnel! Along with the church, the building today is also home to the Baltimore Urban League, an organization committed to enhancing the social and economic conditions of African Americans in Baltimore.

Also a stop on the Underground Railroad, the Baltimore Civil War Museum is housed in the President Street railroad station, which was built in 1851. The site also played a pivotal role in the Pratt Street Riot, the first incident of bloodshed in the Civil War, and features exhibits on Baltimore's colored troops.

Other highlights include the Frederick Douglass Marker in Fell's Point, celebrating the life of the great abolitionist, publisher and orator. Other neighborhood sites showcase where Douglass lived, worked, worshipped and learned to read. Don't miss the five historic townhouses he built that still stand today.

And if you have time for a show while you’re in town, don’t miss the nation's oldest continuously operating African American community theater, the Arena Players, offering productions of both classic works and contemporary plays by African American writers.

Finally, consider a stop at the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the oldest, largest and strongest civil rights organization in the United States, which moved its headquarters to Baltimore in 1986. Peruse the national civil rights archives at the library, and stroll through a memorial garden to writer Dorothy Parker.

© Melissa Goldman
2006 Baltimore Area Convention and Visitors Association, All rights reserved.
Learn more about black history in Baltimore at http://www.baltimore.org/baltimore_black_history.htm or view our African American Heritage and Attractions Guide online at http://www.baltimore.org/africanamerican.

Historic Hotels in Rome

As a tourist, sometimes the best thing about a vacation is the comfortable hotel. So while you are visiting Rome, Italy, why not try one of the many historic hotels?

Between visiting beautiful historic fountains, the Coliseum, the Vatican Museum and enjoying the night life in Trastevere, you’ll need a cozy place to relax in the evening, but don’t let the vacation stop the moment you arrive at your hotel. There are plenty of exquisite hotels that only add to the experience of a true Roman holiday.

Suggested Historic Hotels in Rome

Amidst the city streets of Rome are lovely historic hotels like D’Inghilterra. Founded in 1845, the hotel’s guest list has included Hans Christian Anderson and Mark Twain. You understand why this is one of the most popular hotels when you first see the location, which sits close to the Spanish Steps. It’s unique interior style makes heads turn. With a delectable restaurant, Café Romano, this makes for a stunning all inclusive five star hotel.

Not far from the Vatican Museum is an historic district called “Prati”. Within the floors of an ancient palace, is the Les Chambres D’Or. The quiet atmosphere and sophisticated style and grace are revealed at every turn. You get some of the best views of the Eternal City when you stay at the Les Chambres D’Or.

How to Pick the Right Historic Hotel in Rome

Rome has many culturally intoned historic hotels, and choosing the right one for your stay may be important.

First, figure out the tourist destinations you are interested in. Is there a certain museum you would like to see? Do you only have a short weekend to stay in Rome? Factors like these may be of some assistance if you want to get the most out of your vacation.

For example, if you are going to visit for a short while, you could pick out the museums and all the places you would like to see, and then pick a hotel that is center to everything you want to do. You would not want to pick a hotel that is on the other side of the city from the places you want to visit.

Benefits of a Historic Hotel

You could stay at one of the Hilton, Sheraton or Holiday Inn hotels. They are very luxurious and in convenient locations. However, why stay there, when there are thousands of those in cities around the world? You would get the same standard room from a standard hotel, but a trip to Rome shouldn’t be standard.

A cultural vacation shouldn’t end the moment you reach the hotel steps. The more historic hotels in the district offer fantastic views, traditional styles and more. You are swallowed up in Italian history at ever turn. With sleek marble baths and plush carpets and the opportunity to open you window up to an ancient structure or an exceptionally beautiful church, you simply can’t miss a chance to reserve a hotel in one of the finest cities in the world.

Fionn Downhill is President of Four Corners Hotels offering hotels in cities around the world. To find out more about hotels in Rome visit http://www.fourcornershotels.com/index.php/IT--Rome

New York Travel Highlights

New York is a state full of excitement. Best known for its capital city, New York City, that is known as the city that never sleeps. There are many attractions in New York travel. New York City is an amazing atmosphere of diversity.

The city has a population of over 8 million and spans 300 square miles. There is a vast array of attractions from museums to gardens. It is home to Central Park, a famous landmark which many Hollywood films have used as a back drop. There are three major airports, a public transportation system that includes the subway and taxi cabs that make getting around the city easy. There are restaurants and hotels around every corner. New York experiences four seasons with hot summers and cold winters.

There is definitely something for everyone in New York. New York is home to some of the greatest sites in the United States. The Metropolitan Museum of Art offers great works and amazing exhibits. Time Square is known throughout the world for its billboards and the New Year’s Eve celebrations held there annually. Then there is Broadway which features some of the world’s greatest plays. There are also plenty of studios for those looking to spot a celebrity. Radio City Music Hall is also a big crowd pleaser and the spot to see the Rockettes. Madison Square Garden brings excitement for sports fans as the home of the New York Knicks and New York Rangers. There is also plenty of shopping throughout the city, from thrift stores to trendy names like Macy’s.

There are also special events throughout the year that bring many to the city. As mentioned the New Year’s Eve celebrations are well-know throughout the world. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a tradition that still lines the streets with onlookers. There are plenty of other events, as well, that makes New York City exciting.

It is almost impossible to name every site and event that takes place in New York. New York travel offers something exciting with every visit. Each time a person goes to New York they can expect the experience to never be the same. New York travel is for the person that wants to see it all.

About the author: Stephen Kreutzer is a freelance publisher based in Cupertino, California. He publishes articles and reports in various ezines and provides New York travel resources at New York Trips.

Immigration to Canada - The Pass Mark System

As you may already know, life in Canada provides many advantages, including universal health care and reduced safety concerns. For this reason, Canada had to implement a program that would prevent the country from being overwhelmed by immigrants. Having an influx of too many new people would simply be too great a strain on the current system and could cause it to collapse.

Canada does want immigrants to come to their country. Otherwise, they wouldn't have lowered the required Pass-Mark score from 75 to 67. However, they do want to ensure that all new immigrants will be able to fit into their culture, will be able to support themselves and their families, and will make a positive contribution to the community into which they move.

The Pass-Mark system is a method of evaluating individuals who apply to become permanent Canadian residents based on those standards.

Elements of the Pass-Mark System

The Pass-Mark System evaluates applicants in six areas:

• Education
• Language ability
• Work experience
• Age
• Arranged employment in Canada
• Adaptability

Each of these areas can earn you a specific number of points based on your responses.

The maximum number of points available for each area is listed below:

Education – 25 points

Language – 24 points

Work experience – 21 points

Age – 10 points

Arranged employment in Canada – 10 points

Adaptability – 10 points

Alex Berez is the author of "Step-by-Step Immigration to Canada". For more information, visit: http://www.stepbystepimmigrationcanada.com

Moving Abroad: A Few Things to Bear in Mind

Moving home is tough.

Moving home to another country is tougher.

Moving home when you have no job, savings and only a rudimentary grasp of the language is arguably the toughest.

Guess what I did? I wouldn't recommend following my footsteps if you want to enjoy and take advantage of everything a new culture has to offer, but there are worse ways to spend your time!

I came to live in the Charente region, France a little over four months ago and there have been a few tough times since then. The Charente is close to the Dordogne and is slap-bang in the middle of all of the major wine-growing areas. It's not difficult to see why it's quickly becoming a very popular destination amongst expats.

There is a wealth of resources open to people for relocating abroad and I would definitely recommend doing a lot of research beforehand. Taking advice from someone who has already made the move is a good step. In addition to the major hurdle of learning a different language, there are a number of other questions that need to be answered, such as "will I be able to work?", "what happens if I need medical treatment?" and "where will my children enjoy school?".

But one of the most important questions you'll need to ask is "why am I thinking of moving at all?". If you are running from problems or issues at home, the chances are that they'll only catch up with you sooner or later. If you go with an open mind and don't intend to simply take your little piece home with you then you're more likely to find success in your new home. And if you're keen to experience a new way of life and you're after a challenge, then I'd say go for it!

I've been living in the Charente since September 2005 and my website, home-in-the-charente is dedicated to help people visiting or moving to the area settle in a little easier. I've been a writer since I graduated from university in England in 2003 and am delighted that I can carry on doing what I love in a slightly warmer climate!

Please visit: http://www.home-in-the-charente.com

Surf Spots Guide

The wind comes brushing through the hair, the surfs are up and you are at the verge of the never-ending expense of the pacific. The great American dream is incomplete probably without the great exploits of the sea. The sea never needs the coast guard to be glorified in the USA; it is in fact the integral part of people’s lives in almost half of Americas. Now where in America can find that definitive beach, is an odd question to ask, because hardly can there be only one answer to this. From the east to the west coast the sea god has bestowed North America with probably the best beach line in the world. The extended beaches in the island countries around the American continent are also perfect places to get the tan and the surf.

Hawaii is one of the most traveled beach destination of the world. It attracts tourists due to its never ending coastlines and the secret beaches, which are so exotic that it can be called the heaven on earth. The expanse of the Ho'okipa Beach is approximately 8.4 square miles! Now that is huge!! Americans and people from around the globe visit Hawaii and bask in the golden sands of this beach. The augmented facilities on such beach resorts make it a traveler’s paradise.

The beaches are filled with activities and adventure sports. Surfing has found a new definition here in Hawaii. The surfers hit the waves early in the morning and are welcomes by the froth of the virgin seas. They take the surfers up and down and just jostle them in their vast embrace. It’s no wonder that sipping in the summer sun is one of the most pleasurable pass times. The experience at the American beaches is so fulfilling that many have made this their philosophy.

Malibu finds its name among the top beaches of America. The beach offers vivid activities ranging from surfing, parasailing and gliding. Having all these present at the same spot has made beaches the choicest destination for the holiday goers. Also the beaches of America are host to the best surfing competitions of the world. The Aloha Classic is held every year to choose the ablest rider of the American waves. The competitions are covered by almost all sports media and this has boosted the popularity of the beaches around the globe. But the American water lines are the best in many ways.

There are many adventure opportunities these beaches have to give. But the sea is not an easy customer to trade with. The waves can at times be too dangerous and too big. The surfers find it very difficult and sometimes fatal to venture into rough seas. The US cost guards as well as the local life guards can be seen posted at ever beach. This gives the tourists and the people a carefree atmosphere to surf and enjoy the beauty of the sea. Experiences like tsunami may have reduced the number of sea going people but this has in no way reduced enthusiasm that drives America. sea is still the favorite toy to play with

Mansi aggarwal writes about surf spots Learn more at http://www.surfsuptravel.com

A Stag Weekend Becomes A Moveable Feast

One Lucky Stag Has a Taste of Heaven in Estonia’s Thumping Capital

There’s a lot to love about a stag weekend in Tallinn. Right now all I could hear was ‘Void you like another beer?’, and all I could see was row upon row of straight, white, perfect Estonian teeth and long, shiny, blonde Estonian hair. The waitress, and owner of said teeth and hair, was asking for the trillionth time: ‘Beer. Do-you-want-another-one?’ Even though it was my stag night which made me emperor and overlord of all I surveyed, I couldn’t even muster eye contact and so just nervously spluttered out a well rehearsed ‘Jah!’ Sweet. Beer in the form of the fine ‘Le Coq Premium’ would be soon on its way and, well, I had to admit that my Estonian was coming along beautifully.

But before the beer could even be pulled from the beer pulling thing, before Miss Estonia could even return to service our table, the lights dimmed and there was a venerable hush. And after what had to be the slowest minute known to man, a vision appeared like a phoenix rising. Or something. Just 23 and a half hours earlier I had been arguing about the price of insulation batts in Reading Argos and now, before me stood – or rather lay -a moveable feast in every sense of the word. She was Tanya. She was 22. She was from Haapsalu. Or was it Hishpalaa? Somewhere west of the capital. She was naked. She had our dinner strategically placed on her 22 year old perfect Estonian body. She was very talented.

In Japan, this practice is called nyotaimori and the name literally means ‘adorned body of a woman’ and for the next three hours the unlimited beer flowed and me and my twenty-nine best friends wined, dined and hatched plans about escaping management consultancy and setting up our own bar in down town Tallinn. Or maybe we could open up an English school. Or an academy for young ladies wanting to be learned in the ways of contemporary British life. My Tallinn stag weekend was only half a day old and it was fast surpassing Skegness as my holiday destination of choice. We toasted to the Saku the finest Estonian lager to pass my lips, to Reading topping the table and to Tanya’s left thigh. We toasted to Tallinn’s remarkable ability to produce the highest concentration of the fit birds per square mile and, of course to me and my upcoming nuptials. We were still toasting when we left Tanya half covered in dessert and fig leaves and little else. We were toasting the magnificent delights of Tanya’s right thigh in a rather loud manner, lager and le Coqs in hand, when we noticed what seemed to be a troupe of troopers walking in our general direction.

Crazy-Tallinn-street-cleaners-who-just-couldn’t-part-with-their-soviet-army-fatigues (to them it would always be 1989). We toasted to 1989. To Berlin. To Gorbachev. To Reagan. To Yeltsin, who we were all sure was very certain of the infinite native delights of Estonia. To the greatest stag weekend ever. Thank you Tanya, wherever you may be, Tanan and Head ood! Thank you and good night. I will never look at grilled Greek pork in the same way again.

Peter Finlay spoke to Amalia Illgner. We are pleased to announce that Peter is now a happily married man with a house full of white goods in Reading.

Special Thanks to Chillisauce for organizing Peter's Tallinn stag weekend.

Amalia Illgner is a writer from Sydney, Australia. She has published work in the free to street press on men's issues and travel and lifestyle.

For more information about a great stag weekend http://www.chillisauce.co.uk/stag-weekends/tallinn/

Romanian Travel Guide

A place that has seen political turmoil to the hardest extent but has stood the test of time. A place where mysteries unfold around every corner. Where the nature has bestowed its greatest gifts. Welcome to Romania. Until the modern history was being written Romania was mainly under the influence of the wars. Then it was gripped in the hands of the communist regimen. Despite the wraths of wraths of time the country has stood erect and today it is one of the culturally advanced and educationally pioneering countries of the world.

The historical importance of the country is established by the presence of the numerous castles all over the place. The main attraction of the tourists to this country is its magnificent castle. Build in the ancient times, they still sing the lore of the European grandeur and Romanian past. The atmosphere in them is filled with mysticism and it’s a once in a life experience that every tourists takes back. The Peles, Corvin are two of most famous castles of Romania. Conducted tours take the tourists around the castles giving them information about the historical facts.

As most European nations Romania too has a rich arts and cultural history. The architecture of the country makes it stand out form the lot. The historical curves on the famous buildings give then a unique royalty. Bucharest, the capital city, is also the cultural capital of the country. The village life of Romania is depicted in a museum dedicated to it. The Village museums answer all questions in the minds of the tourists about he rural backdrop of the country. The painted monasteries of Bucovina stand there since the 1500s and are an embodiment of the great architectural history of Romania.

It’s not hard to find great people from this European nation but one prince that has made this country a legend is of Transylvania. The Dracula is a legendry character, which has had a lasting impression on the people of all ages and backgrounds. The castle of the Dracula stands in all its magnificence in Transylvania. Myths apart it has now become one of the most urbanized areas of the country. However the mysterious sensation still keep the tourists dumbfound.

Bucharest, the capital is situated in the Wallachia region in the southern part of Romania. It has got all the political activity. It has gained world repute in the field of education. An international college for medicine is situated in Bucharest, which attracts students from all over the world. The French influence on the city is evident by the architecture on many buildings of the city. It has been christened as ‘little Paris’ due to this very reason. How ever the beauty of the planning of the city has left it look very green and silent. It’s a soothing experience to be in any Romanian city and Bucharest tops the list. One thing seldom found in Europe is found in Bucharest in abundance – legalized gambling. The city offers some of the best casino rooms and coupled with the fact that it is legal makes it a favorite among the tourists. The typical cuisine of Romania is rich with beacon and meat. The desserts also have their distinctive taste.

The country having undergone harsh times in the political oppression could not explore all possibilities of tourism. Now it is coming out with ecotourism programs to attract tourists. Way to go!

Mansi aggarwal writes about. romanian travel Learn more at http://www.triptoromania.com