Why Holiday In The Algarve? 6 Reasons To Visit Portugal's South Coast

Why Holiday In The Algarve? 6 Reasons To Visit Portugal's South Coast

by Daniel Eyre

Without doubt the best sellers on Search Travel Online are holidays to mainland Spain. This is no surprise, and there are plenty of reasonably priced escapes in the sun to be had around Spain, but I do think people are missing out by not choosing to take a cheap holiday in the Algarve with us. Portugal's south coast is easily the equal of mainland Spain in many respects, and even nicer in others.

So here, without further ado is 6 reasons you should consider a bargain holiday in the Algarve the next time you head abroad:

Wonderful Weather

As you might expect from Southern Europe, the weather is excellent all year round, but to my mind the Algarve even manages to eclipse mainland Spain. Never too hot, with a pleasant ocean breeze, the Algarve is at it's hottest in July and August where it averages 28 degrees centigrade, but even at its coldest in January it is still 15 degrees, with over 6 hours of sunshine per day! Whether you're planning on heading in the peak of summer, or escaping the miserable British winter for warmer climes, cheap package holidays in the Algarve are bound to provide ample serotonin.

Brilliant Beaches

With more than 30 beaches in the Algarve region, it's fair to say you should easily manage to find at least a handful that you love! The variety also means there are beaches for all occasions - family friendly, shallow beaches, some ideal for windsurfing and water sports, some romantic secluded beaches ideal for couples to walk hand-in-hand along - but all of them drenched in the sunshine, relaxation and good times: The spirit of Algarve package holidays!

Great Golf

What's the perfect relaxed game to compliment the cheap Algarve holiday staple of lounging lazily on the beach in splendid weather? Golf of course! There are 19 golf courses in the Algarve meaning that, like the beaches, you're sure to find a couple to your tastes. The most famous is undoubtedly the world renowned Royal Course known for its famous Par 3 hole that requires a shot of more than 200 metres over 3 breathtaking cliffs! The other courses are all entertaining though, and the sheer density of quality venues means you're never far from a swift round if the mood takes you on a cheap package holiday in the Algarve!

Fantastic Food

One of the simple pleasures of a bargain holiday in the Algarve is dining in the local restaurants - and this usually comes an a very reasonable price, explaining perhaps why eating out is far more common in the region than it is in the UK. It's quite normal to get a quality meal for £8-£10 per person, including wine. The food is mostly prepared using local ingredients, so expect quality seafood on the coast, and spiced chicken and pork dishes as you move more inland. For those who refuse to indulge in the local cuisine (you're missing out) there are a handful of places selling English food for the tourists, so you needn't feel homesick for long on your cheap holiday in the Algarve!

Captivating Culture

Okay, bullfighting may not be everyone's idea of culture, but there are plenty of other reasons to leave the beach on your Algarve holiday. There are seasonal music, art and drink festivals throughout the year, and you are never far away from a fascinating local art gallery or museum to get a greater feel for the region's history during your bargain Algarve holiday.

Noteworthy Nightlife

The nightlife of the Algarve is certainly varied, and for once it's fair to say there really is something for everyone, with a clear divide between the club scene and local cultural, relaxed evenings under the Portuguese stars. Starting with the club scene, the best bet is Albufeira, where you can party into the early hours at a wide selection of nightclubs and bars, particularly popular with English and German tourists. It may not be as well known as Ibiza or Majorca, but the Algarve is something of a nightlife gem.

The alternative to this is enjoying a night of Algarve culture. If your idea of a pleasant evening is a quiet dinner of seafood, followed by some live fado folk music or dancing in a bar, ending with a pleasant promenade under the stars, then maybe the Algarve alternative nightlife is ideal for you afterall!

This is all just scraping the surface of what makes cheap Algarve holidays such a fantastic choice for British tourists, but the best way to discover the magic of the region is to go there. If you've been on the fence about booking a cheap package holiday to the Algarve, delay no longer - you won't regret it!


About the Author

Daniel Eyre is the Product Manager of Search Travel Online. Search Travel Online is part of the Co-operative Group, specialising in cheap holidays: Algarve, Majorca, Costa Brava, Tenerife, Costa Dorada, Costa del Sol, Andorra, Egypt, Malta and the Canaries are all available.

Birmingham Bullring: The biggest shopping experience outsideLondon

Birmingham Bullring: The biggest shopping experience outside London by Isla Campell


The Bullring shopping centre has long been a focal point of Birmingham city centre and, following its extensive redevelopment in 2003, has been restored as one of the midland's foremost shopping and entertainment complexes.

Opened in May 1964 by the Duke of Edinburgh, the original Birmingham Bull Ring centre was a combination of outdoor market stalls and Britain's first indoor shopping mall. Covering 23 acres and incorporating 140 units offering over 350,000 square feet of retail space the Bull Ring had an enormous bull mural added to the part of the complex that overlooked the vehicle entry.

In order to accommodate all the expected shoppers it was directly connected to New Street railway station and incorporated a 500-space multi-storey car park. Using American shopping malls as their model, the designers of the original Bull Ring intended to include air conditioning and piped music throughout the complex, to create an intimate atmosphere. However, the reality failed to live up to the hype and before long the design of the Bull Ring was condemned as a brutal example of 1960's concrete box architecture. It didn't help that escalators and lifts regularly broke down and high retail rents scared away many would-be traders.

As early as 1980 plans for the Bull Ring's re-development was put forward to Birmingham council. After much discussion involving city residents the original 1960s Bull Ring development was demolished in 2000, to be replaced by a shiny new contemporary retail development in 2003.

On the day of its official opening the new Bullring shopping centre attracted an estimated 275,000 shoppers, all keen to see what was on offer in the bright new surroundings. One of the most prominent features of the redevelopment is the award-winning futuristic building that houses Selfridges, which is clad in 15,000 shiny aluminium discs.

Indeed, the Bullring shopping centre is now such an impressive retail centre that out-of-town visitors are choosing to make a weekend of it. There is no shortage of luxury hotels in the city centre and when it comes to budget hotels in Birmingham, the area is better served than most. Many are within reasonable walking distance of the shopping complex and the city's entertainment heart.

However, much more than Selfridges awaits eager shoppers at the new Bullring; major retailers such as Apple, Currys digital, Debenhams, Elle and Nike are just a sample of the 160 household names that occupy over 26 football pitches worth of shops, restaurants and boutiques in the complex.

At the end of the first year almost 36.5million people visited the Bullring, making it the most visited UK shopping area outside of London's West End and justifying the £530million cost of construction.


About the Author

Isla Campbell is an online, freelance journalist and avid traveler and pilates devotee. When not on the road she lives on the outskirts of Oban.

Kenya Travel

Kenya Travel - How To Spend You Time In Nairobi If You Miss Your International Connecting Flight

by Solomon Okila

Besides losing out on the all-important deal, the business travellers' worst nightmare is probably the possibility of missing the next flight - for whatever reason.

No matter how well-prepared you may think you are for this small inconvenience, it will still throw you off-balance. It may happen to you after being bumped from your seat by the airline or you could simply get caught up in the unpredictable traffic congestions of the city and end up being late for the check-in. Whichever way it comes to you, you will end up with a situation to deal with.

Your first reaction is of course what we all expect and accept, especially if you believe the fault is not yours - rage, annoyance, whining, shouting match with the duty manager etc.

After all the telephone calls have been made and you have explored all options, you realize you have 14 hours in your hands before you can get into the next flight for your destination. The next revelation that comes to you, is of course the fact that life must go on. At this point, you know you are fine.

From this moment, I advise that you put into use the lessons you learnt from one of the very many self-help books you have been carrying around to keep you busy in - between meetings. Hopefully, one of the lessons would be: "Look at the bright side of it, and it will be better".

In other words, make a decision to use this time to enjoy some of the attractions and interesting places in and around Nairobi. Resist the temptation to book a hotel in Nairobi where you would spend the rest of the time feeling annoyed. Find out what you can do with this time!

Here are some options for day trips and excursions that can be done from Nairobi:

Tour of Nairobi City

If you are a first time traveller to Nairobi and have not had time to see the city, a 3 hour tour of the city will give you some 'feel' of this beautiful city in the sun. You get to see the central business district, viewing the shops, the city market, and the railway museum among other places. Normally this tour would end with a visit to the Snake Park and national museum that are just about 5-minutes drive from the city centre. Go for this option if have at least 8 hours between you and your next flight.

Tour of Nairobi City together with a visit to the Giraffe Centre and Karen Blixen.

If you have about 12 hours available to you before your next flight, you may wish to consider extending the city tour to cover the animal orphanage at the entrance of the Nairobi national park, the Giraffe centre and the Karen Blixen Museum. Or you could just skip the city tour and undertake the 4-hour tour covering Animal orphanage, Giraffe centre and Karen Blixen Museum.

The animal orphanage is run by Kenya Wildlife services. It lies just about 27 kilometres (approximately 16 miles) from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Unfortunately, the animals here are caged, and some people may not like this. But they are caged for a reason. Some were brought from the wilderness after losing parents to predators or poachers. Some were born at the orphanage while their parents are being taken care of. The Nairobi animal orphanage raises the orphaned animal with the aim of nurturing them and training them. Eventually, they are released back into the wild to lead a normal animal life!

The Giraffe Centre

The Giraffe Centre is an educational centre run by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (A.F.E.W). The story of the Giraffe Centre and its begin has been narrated many times. It was set up to protect the endangered Rothschild giraffe. If you lean towards conservation and fun, please consider visiting the centre. You will get the chance to feed the giraffe from a raised platform as you contribute towards conservation.

Karen Blixen Museum

You must have heard about the film 'Out of Africa'. Yes, if you love history and antiques, you may consider a visit to the home Karen Blixen and step back in time for a few hours. Karen's home is now preserved as a museum. The museum lies about 30 minutes drive from your starting point - the airport.

Nairobi National park

The Nairobi National park is enjoys the unique status of being the only protected wildlife area so close to a capital city - Nairobi. It located just 7 kilometres from the city centre that means about 27 kilometres from the Airport. The park is home to the rhino, buffalo, cheetah, zebra, giraffe, lion and plenty of antelopes and gazelles. You will need at least 8 hours to enjoy this tour. You will use 4 hours for the tour, keep 1 hour to use from on the road to and from the park, and 3 hours for your check-in!

Lake Nakuru National park

Lake Nakuru National is known world-wide for the flamingos. Besides the flamingos, there is an additional 450 of bird species. It is also a sanctuary for the white Rhino. Situated just about 3 hours from Nairobi, you can visit the park either as a day long excursion or overnight trip if you have the time. You must have at least 11 hours here. Six hours will be spent on the road between Nairobi and Lake Nakuru; 5 hours for your game drive in the park and lunch break.

It is important that you do not miss your connecting flight again. So let us summarize this:

Pick the Tour of Nairobi City if you have at least 8 hours. Combine the City tour with Karen, Giraffe Centre and Karen Blixen if you can afford at least 12 hours.

If you would rather do the individual excursions of Giraffe Centre or Karen Blixen, keep at least 8 hours for each.

Lake Nakuru National will take up at least 12 hours.

How do you make these arrangements from the airport? Well, just look around while at the Jomo Kenyatta International airport. There are reliable tour operators with desks at the airport and they can arrange the tours as you wait. Of course if you have contacts of your preferred local travel agent, you could call them up to have this done.

This is not a word of caution, just advice: Whichever excursion you take up, whatever you do, please make sure at the end of everything, you still have 4 hours 'buffer zone' to get to the Jomo Kenyatta International airport from the City centre. Three hours for your check in and 1 hour just in case there is heavy traffic on the road.

Scuba Diving In Thailand - The Secrets Of One Of The Worlds Most Popular Diving Destinations

Scuba Diving In Thailand - The Secrets Of One Of The Worlds Most Popular Diving Destinations

by Mark Burns



Thailand has one of the world's most diverse marine habitats, with more than 300 major reef groups covering an area of over 4,500 square miles. From pinnacles and submerged rocks, through to stunning coral gardens and sheer walls, the scuba diving in Thailand has something to offer scuba divers of all levels of experience. It is this diversity in marine habitats and diving environments which attracts so many divers to the waters around Thailand every year, and today the region is one of the world's most popular scuba diving destinations.

There are a number of major diving destinations in Thailand, all offering a wide selection of diverse dive sites. Throughout all of these major destinations is a network of well equipped, knowledgeable and experienced dive centres, offering a range of diving from leisure dives through to a selection of scuba diving courses.

It would be impossible to discuss Thailand, without looking at the scuba diving in Phuket and the surrounding areas. Without doubt, the diving in Phuket is of the highest standard, and the waters surrounding the 'island' host a number of excellent dive sites. However, the real underwater treasures of Phuket lie slightly further afield. Dive sites such as the Burma Banks, The Similan Islands and the Mergui Archipelago are often found high on the wish list of many discerning scuba diver and offer some of South East Asia's finest dive sites.

The scuba diving on the Western Gulf of Thailand sees a different emphasis, and the small islands found here have become one of the world's most popular areas to learn to scuba dive. In fact, the island of Koh Tao has developed a complete tourist industry from scuba diving, and today large numbers of would be scuba divers travel to Koh Tao every day to begin their diving education. Other islands within the Western Gulf of Thailand are also home to developed scuba diving industries, and destinations such as Koh Samui and Ko Pha-Ngan are both home to a large number of dive centres and excellent dive sites.

Throughout Thailand there are a number of exceptional dive sites, and sites such as the Richelieu Rock and Chumpon Pinnacle are widely acknowledged as being world class dive sites. However it is the sheer volume of excellent dive sites that makes Thailand such a popular destination. Destinations such as Pattaya, Krabi, Ko Chang and the Surin Islands are all home to a number of exceptional dive sites and dive centres.

Today, Thailand is one of the world's most popular scuba diving destinations, and large numbers of scuba divers travel long distances to dive in the waters surrounding this stunning country. The sheer diversity of the diving on offer here ensures that there is something to cater for all tastes and levels of experience. From vertical wrecks, through to submerged pinnacles, from the largest sharks, through to the smallest nudibranches, the diving in Thailand has something for everyone.

Scuba Diving In Phuket - The Pearl of the Andaman by Mark Burns

Scuba Diving In Phuket - The Pearl of the Andaman
by Mark Burns


Located on the western coast of the Thailand Peninsula, with its shores on the warm waters of the Andaman Sea lies the beautiful island of Phuket. The largest island off the coast of Thailand, the island of Phuket covers an area of just over 300 square miles, and is connected to mainland Thailand via a bridge at the north of the island.

For the past 25 years, the island of Phuket has catered for a large number of tourists from all over the world, a large percentage of whom are scuba divers looking to dive on some Asia's finest dive sites. Today, scuba diving in Phuket is big business, and the island has a large number of excellent dive centres offering a number of diving services ranging from leisure dives through to the most advanced courses.

The Racha Islands, located off the Southern tip of Thailand are one of Phuket's best dive sites, and the two islands offer excellent diving in crystal clear waters as well as the opportunity for big animal encounters. In particular, the smaller island, Racha Noi, offers some breathtaking underwater scenery, and is renowned for both whale shark and manta ray encounters.

The dive sites off Ao Phang-Nga, including the famous Shark Point and King Cruiser Wrecks, are widely acknowledged as being the best dive sites in the Phuket region. The waters around in and around Ao Phang-Nga are notable for the profusion of marine life, offering divers access to a range of marine life and coral which is unrivalled elsewhere in Phuket.

Phuket is also home to one of the worlds most developed liveaboard industries, with a large number of liveaboards offering diving in destinations such as the Similan Islands, the Mergui Archipelago and the Burma Banks. For scuba divers wishing to dive these more remote destinations, a Phuket liveaboard is the only realistic option for access. As such, the liveaboard industry in Phuket is a thriving and competitive business, with an increasing number of liveaboards operating from Phuket.

Further east lie the islands of Ko Phi Phi Don, and Ko Phi Phi Lae, a region characterised by the stunning topography of the amazing limestone cliffs. These islands are fringed with a number of hard coral gardens, as well as some excellent examples of soft corals, orange sea fans, sea whips and black coral.

Phuket is well deserving of its title as the 'Pearl of the Andaman,' and undoubtedly the region boasts some of Thailand's best dive sites. As environmental issues such as marine conservation slowly work their way up Thailand's political agenda, the future for scuba diving in Phuket looks a healthy one.

About the Author

Mark Burns is Director of Scubaworld.tv, a large scuba diving site specialising in scuba diving in Thailand and a leading provider of information on Scuba diving in Phuket.

Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals

Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals
by ANDREW WARREN


A vacation rental home is a private home or condo that has been made available by its owners for the use of others on a short-term basis. Such homes can be rented either directly through the owner or through a management company. Homes like this are located in many different popular Santa Barbara vacation spots, including Orlando and the Panhandle. And you can find rental homes ranging from a one-bedroom condo in a community to an eight-bedroom house on its own lot. While it is important to note that some homes will require minimum rental periods, from one night to one month, there is always a Carpinteria vacation rental home that can accommodate either a short trip or an extended vacation for a couple or for the whole family.

Vacation rentals are the fastest growing trend in travel, but have long been popular in many summer vacation spots, for families to enjoy the convenience of an oceanfront cottage, have a perfect summer on the lake, or relax at a mountainside retreat close to outdoor adventures and activities. You may even find rental homes that welcome pets, so you can bring the family dog along! Here are some of the other perks you can enjoy when renting a vacation property.

When you plan a vacation, you may automatically think of taking your family (or just yourself) and checking into a big hotel. With so many airplane + hotel + car rental packages out there, it's easy to get sucked into that frame of thinking. And in the long run, you can often get the best vacation deals by going that way. Still, there are other lodging options you might wish to explore. Vacation rentals are available in most states of the US including major tourist area California The vacation rental market is larger in Europe than it is in the United States.

Some of the best vacation rentals are available at all these beach destinations. The best Vacation rentals in Santa Barbara are built with an easy access to the beach and they provide breathtaking views of the oceanfront.

You can find other vacation rentals for your California vacation . . . but you won't find them on the doorstep of the "World's Safest Beach" unless you choose Carpinteria Shores Oceanfront Vacation Rentals. It is one of the very few privately owned beachfront vacation rental properties in this charming seaside town.

Activities and Attractions:

Carpinteria Avocado Festival, Santa Barbara International Film Festival, Santa Barbara Symphony, 1998 Santa Barbara Jazz Festival, Central Coast Festivals, Old Spanish Days Fiesta, Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, Santa Barbara Museum of Art, Santa Barbara Zoological Gardens, Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, Santa Barbara International Orchid Show, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, Channel Islands National Park, The Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum, Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation.




About the Author

Andrew Warren is a freelance leisure writer with specialized knowledge in real estate and Santa Barbara vacation rentals as well as Vacation rentals in Carpinteria.For more information please visit:www.carpinteriashores.com

A Caribbean Honeymoon On A Small Island Off St. Vincent

Caribbean Honeymoon On A Small Island Off St. Vincent

by: Gordon Steven

Why you should consider Young Island Resort off the coast of Saint Vincent as the destination for your Caribbean Honeymoon

A Caribbean Honeymoon spent on Young Island off the south coast of Saint Vincent could be just the little piece of heaven you are looking for.

Young Island resort comes heavily recommended by everyone who has stayed there because this is a resort where you will get top class service, fantastic food, a very good wine selection, and last but not least peace, quiet, and tranquility. Be warned this won’t be a Caribbean Honeymoon full of the nightly Jump Up, or even television in your room. Young Island resort is definitely not like that, but caters instead for honeymooners, and discerning guests.

For your Caribbean Honeymoon it is recommended that you have a cottage right on the beach, so that you can just walk out, go along a path and you hit the very nice fresh water swimming pool, which unusually for the Caribbean is open 24 hours a day every day.

The back door takes you across the patio and onto the beach, which is cleaned every morning, and so it is absolutely spotless. You can snorkel off the beach, having borrowed the gear from the man who looks after guests down there, probably best described as the beach attendant.

If you can book Cottage Number six which is a luxury cottage on the beach with a plunge pool, and behind the cottage hammocks and a gazebo.

One of the best things in an hotel on any holiday are waitress served meals, in other words non buffet. This always denotes a quality resort which Young Island certainly is, and this type of service should give the reader a big tip if they are thinking of making a booking on Young Island for their Caribbean Honeymoon. The food generally speaking is amazing, and you can expect a lot of beautiful seafood including freshly caught crab, lobster, scallops, as well as lamb, steak, poultry. Meals are taken in little thatched gazebos, and the view from the tables is incredible. The meals were described by someone recently as absolutely scrumptious, including and especially the home made yoghurts at breakfast

You may wish to be completely idle if this is where you are spending your Caribbean Honeymoon, but one bit of exercise you should take is to walk up to the top of the island. It may not be very energetic but the view is worth it, as is the walk along the beach at sunset and watch dusk at what is aptly called Sunset Point.

The staff at Young Island have ready smiles, and are friendly and very helpful.

The real beauty about Young Island resort is that it is small with not so many guests so you do tend to engage more people in conversation. This means you do meet some very interesting people, who are much like you because they too have chosen this superb Island resort.

Young Island is beautiful and the perfect spot for a Caribbean Honeymoon. There are masses of brightly coloured flowers which only adds to the romantic atmosphere.

For more information about St Vincent and the Grenadines go to http://www.caribbean-vacationspots.com/categories/St-Vincent-and-The-Grenadines/

Welcome To Miami

Welcome To Miamiby: Terry Hely

Miami is a sub-tropical city, climatically very different from most places in the USA. The city is a cosmopolitan playground that attracts more visitors than any other US destination.

Miami appeals to holiday makers wanting warm sun, clean sandy beaches, a laid back lifestyle, sophisticated entertainment in clubs and bars and a mix of art, music and international cuisines.

Travelers visiting Miami may actually spend their time in Miami Beach, a separate municipality situated 4 miles (6 km) across Biscayne Bay from downtown Miami. The combined greater Miami area includes several ethnic neighborhoods such as Little Havana and Little Haiti.

The population of the Greater Miami Area is a 50% mix of assorted Hispanic and the diverse cultural mix is evident in Latin American languages, cuisine and music throughout the city and. Dining in Miami offers the opportunity to visit a different ethnic restaurant every night and enjoy diverse international cuisines.

Once upon a time, Miami attracted mostly retirees turning their backs on snowy, colder climates but nowadays it attracts the ultra-chic glitterati, cashed up yuppies, the boating and yachting fraternity and Cuban immigrants.

** Miami Vacation Attractions

Greater Miami is a great base for access to several major Florida holiday attractions. The northern tip of the Florida Keys is just off shore, the Everglades are just a short distance inland and the affluent enclaves of Palm Beach and Boca Roton are just a short distance along the coast.

The Miami Beach Promenade, aka South Beach, is a favorite spot for cyclists, skaters, joggers and skateboarders. This is the most instantly recognized beach front location in existence and the place to be seen if appearances are important.

Many of the early Miami buildings from the early 1900's have been restored. A walking tour around the South Beach precinct is recommended to see the spectacular rejuvenation of the 1920's buildings in the Art Deco Historic District.

Miami boasts fine museums, galleries, historic gardens, zoos, sports stadiums, spring fed natural pools and of course, the ever present golf courses. Greater Miami has lots to brag about when it comes to world class golf courses and is home to some of the most testing courses in the world.

** Miami Vacation Cruises

The busiest cruise ship center of any city in the USA is the Port of Miami with holiday cruises to the Caribbean and Latin America making up the bulk of these cruises, but there are also cruises to all parts of the world.

Cruises are usually well equipped for gambling and casinos open as soon as the ship passes into international waters. Non stop food, games, movies and onboard activities ensure guests are always entertained and well fed.

** Miami Hotels & Resorts

Miami visitors are offered a range of hotels, resorts and vacation rentals to satisfy all tastes and budgets. There's accommodation and prices to suit everyone, ranging from the restored boutique hotels in the Art Deco and South Beach district, modern glass and chrome high rise hotels, budget hostels, beach front condos and villas, serviced apartments, inns and guesthouses... it's your choice.

** Miami Vacation Transport

Miami International Airport is one of the major airports in the USA, and a major hub city for American Airlines. Major domestic airlines such as Delta, Northwest/KLM, United and US Airways and Continental all servive Miami as well as several economy carriers.

There are two Amtrak trains that run daily from New York down to Miami and the travel time is approximately 27 hours.

The Metro-Dade Transit Agency runs two Miami rail systems, one being Metrorail which is a modern elevated commuter train that connects downtown Miami and the southern suburbs. Metromover is an elevated line looping the downtown precinct and connecting with many of the important attractions, shopping and business districts.

Tri Rail is the south Florida commuter train service that connects Miami with North Palm Beach and all centers in between.


Copyright (c) 2008 Terry Hely

Holidays - L'amour for France by Jennifer Quirk

Holidays - L'amour for France

France has many different connotations, and is famous for many things, and so offers many different types of holidays. Some people go for the cuisine, some for the rich culture, some for the sights, even for the shopping. One thing France offers for certain is fulfilling escape from day to day life.

Famous for its vineyards you may choose to relax in the splendour of Champagne while sampling a glass of wine, or take a trip down to the charming French Riviera, perhaps instead you would enjoy an active day on one of France’s vast beaches or, like myself, simply soak up the sun within the beautiful surroundings. One thing is for sure, France will not disappoint with it’s many different types of Holidays .

Plenty to do, France offers unforgettable experiences to both holiday makers on a long stay trips and also to those popping over and taking advantage of Last Minute Holidays . If you are looking for a family based trip you may like to take advantage of the various package holidays available that organise day trips to an assortment of water and theme parks, educational and historical sites, and children’s holiday clubs.

If that all sounds too busy for you, you may like to book a cottage or apartment within one of the smaller towns or less tourist based areas of the country. These self-catering options often result in more personal, homely and, importantly,Cheap Holidays . You have the added luxury of having a garden for BBQs, not having to go to bed when the bar closes and more often than not your own swimming pool.

Due to its diverse choice of holiday past times, which have relentlessly beautiful landscapes wherever you go, it is difficult to fault France as a fantastic holiday destination for families, couples and friends alike.

by Jennifer Quirk

Eurozone Hits 2008 Malta Vacations

Summer 2008 should be good for the Malta hotels and holidays industry - last year was the best year for incoming tourism for 6 years, and the island joined the Euro with some confidence on January 1.

But a recent report reflects on what has happened to prices when other countries have joined the Euro, and warns that Malta could see a rise in holiday prices compared to competitor islands who have already absorbed the impact of a new currency, or have stayed outside the Euro.

Malta decided to join the Euro shortly after a becoming a full member of the EU, and the move was opposed by some on the island. Malta has a rich history of struggle to maintain her individuality, including surviving an onslaught in WW2 from the Luftwaffe and gaining independence from the UK, but the move to surrender the Maltese currency was a voluntary one.

The report comes from the UK's Post Office travel division, and is notable as the UK, despite increasing diversification of Malta's tourism base, is Malta's largest market for holidays.

There is a warning that after Spain and Greece joined the Euro in 2002, they were among the cheapest European holiday destinations but not long after they became considerably more expensive, and if history repeats itself Malta will be among the most expensive holiday locations in 2008.

'Malta needs to keep an eye on prices', warns Malta travel site YourMalta.com, continuing '2007 saw a ten per cent increase in tourists compared to the year before and was the best year for a while for the Malta hotels and holidays industry, it would be silly to let the mood of confidence that's in Malta about the future be wiped out by profiteers looking to take advantage of the change of currency by putting prices up unnecessarily.'

2007 was a turning year for Malta, with previously poor publicity turning to good press reports in the media overseas. Both Germany and the UK have seen new low cost flight operators sucessfully applying to fly to Malta, and the increase in tourism can largely be put down to the new cheap flight to Malta airfares.

The good news for Malta is that despite the increase in the number of tourists arriving on the island via low cost flights, the occupancy levels of hotels has increased from basic to 5 star, showing that Malta can appeal to all.

The optimism from Malta in 2008 is in sharp contrast to just a couple of years ago when some major holiday companies were considering dropping Malta as a holiday option altogether.

With a downward spiral in visitor numbers in successive years, the Maltese government finally relented to pressure from the Malta holidays industry and allowed low cost carriers to fly to the island for the first time in November 2006.

It would be ironic if cheap flights which have revitalised Malta's holiday industry didn't necessarily mean an inexpensive holiday this year in Malta due to profiteering by shops and businesses on the island, and tourist numbers dropped. With the Euro doing well against Sterling the Maltese people might reflect that they should have stuck with their own currency for a year or two more.

by Michael Johnson

Leeds Airport gets First Transatlantic Flights

While travellers used to have to catch transatlantic flights from Manchester Airport, Jet2 are making it easier than ever for business travellers and tourists in Yorkshire to take a bite of the Big Apple.

Jet2, which is based in Leeds, has announced details of their plans to launch Leeds-Bradford Airport’s first ever transatlantic service. Richard Bodin, Managing Director of Jet2holidays.com, said that they were “proud and thrilled” to be launching the route to New York’s Newark Airport. He said: “This is an important announcement for us. We knew this destination was one that our customers have been calling for and we are proud and thrilled to be able to be the first holiday company in the region to offer this great deal to such an amazing city.”

Jet2 revealed that they would be offering the return flights to New York from just £579.98, which includes taxes. They also unveiled their plans to offer special Christmas shopping breaks in the Big Apple, which can be taken during November and December this year. Costing from just £699, these four-day breaks will include three nights in a hotel and travellers will be able to choose from a range of three, four and five-star properties. In addition to this, the fee also includes all taxes and charges.

Mr Bodin said that a Christmas shopping break was the ideal way to experience New York for the first time. He said: “We are launching with Christmas shopping breaks as our research suggested this was the one thing most people tend to recommend to friends as a must-do first experience, and something they tend to repeat.”

Although Mr Bodin said that the company will be begin by offering a handful of daily flights to New York, it is expected that more will added if the route is successful. He said: “We are launching, initially, with four departures - however, if these are successful and in high enough demand we will add more to the programme.”

Tickets for this exciting new route are already on sale and are expected to sell out quickly, so travellers are advised book early in order to avoid disappointment.

by Karri Madelline

All Inclusive Family Jamaica Vacation Hotels

All inclusive hotels in Jamaica for a family vacation are always a popular choice for families during there Jamaica tours. You will find that there are many all inclusive resort chains in Jamaica and all of are able to provide various fun filled activities, also they provide adventure sports as well, these sports families always seek on there vacations.

The two major hotel chains in Jamaica are Super Clubs and Sandals. Both these hotel chains are specifically designed for families. You can make your Jamaica tours more enjoyable with the various facilities of these all inclusive hotels.

Beaches Boscobel, a part of Sandals Resorts, is one of the most popular all inclusive hotels in Jamaica. The hotel location is on the north coast of Jamaica and is just two hours traveling time from Montego Bay airport. The resort is quite large and is spread over 22 acres and there are fine guest rooms and suites in this resort. The resort is also located near to the beach.

Though the resort is built just up from the beach, you do not need to take the stairs on your return to the hotel, as there is a lift that takes you from the beach to the rooms. You may use the stairs only if you feel you need the exercise.

Beaches Boscobel has rooms, suites, and the luxury family suites, all of which have half walls instead of complete partitions. The terrace suite of the resort is a vast room, which has sofa beds and king sized beds. This suite has beautiful decor and is very spacious, it also comes with a wide veranda outside it. All the rooms and suites come with well stocked refrigerators.

The Beaches Boscobel has a pool side restaurant, that is named The Bayside Restaurant. This restaurant has a airy location and it caters three types of meals, as well as light snacks. Lots of fruit and cheese are also served with these meals. The restaurant also provides a special kids zone. Tourists can watch the various night time entertainment and quizzes from the pool of the resort.

There are two more pools in the resort including wading pool and kiddy pool. The wading pool is ideal for small children and the kiddy pool is more for toddlers with its two water slides. The Boscobel also houses tennis courts, fitness centers, outdoor pool tables and many other sports facilities.

Rose Hall Resort & Country Club is one of the most renown all inclusive hotels in Jamaica family vacations. The resort is well spread over a vast 400 acres and this most charming of all inclusive resorts, provides something special for people of all age groups. At this resort can enjoy a vast array of activities including snorkeling, parasailing, windsurfing and kayaking and best of all these sports can all be enjoyed with your family.

Tourists often spend sunny afternoons sunbathing . Some of the other sports that can be enjoyed during your stay in this resort are scuba diving, swimming, beach volleyball, boat tours, fishing and jet skiing, to name a few.

Holiday Inn Cancun Arenas is one of the finest all inclusive hotels for your Jamaica family vacation. It is a beachfront hotel, with a rich Mediterranean Style and is ideal for families and couples. The hotel always has a warm atmosphere and its location is encircled by beautiful gardens.

This hotel offers all inclusive facilities and the rooms of the hotel are very well appointed with modern amenities including bathtubs, tea/coffee makers, exercise gym and in room movies. All this can make your stay one you will never forget.

So as you can see all inclusive Jamaican family vacations are ideal for you and your family and they offer a wide range of facilities, that will make your stay a once in a life time experience.

About the Author

This article was written by G D Williams, an up and coming expert in Jamaican Travel. Did you find these tips on Air Jamaica Vacations useful? You can find out a lot more about Air Jamaica Vacations by going to Travel Jamaica Help .”

Best way to spend your vacations - Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals

As any traveler knows, life can be unpredictable, uncertain and full of challenges. Life can be sluggish and without warning move at a faster pace. To better cope with all these ups and downs, it becomes necessary to take a much-deserved break. You need to figure out a good plan for some restful vacation and simply relax. Allow me to offer an excellent suggestion: you can rent an oceanfront vacation rental in the charming seaside town of Santa Barbara. There you can relax on the beach side and enjoy the peace and serenity of the moment. The Santa Barbara area is one of the most beautiful vacation destinations. With a perfectly planned vacation at Santa Barbara vacation rental, you are guaranteed to forget all the humdrum pressures and challenges of life ... at least for a little while.

Vacation Rentals in Santa Barbara are a great way to spend your time on the Central Coast of California. Santa Barbara is located about 80 miles north west of Los Angeles, along the Pacific coast. With the towering Santa Ynez Mountains behind the city, the views from sunrise to sunset are always spectacular. Santa Barbara has been called the "American Riviera," due to its Mediterranean-like climate. The city is easily accessible with its position only an hour northwest of Los Angeles. You always know when you arrive in Santa Barbara as most of the architecture is designed and crafted in a beautiful Spanish Colonial style replete with hundreds of beautiful, red terra cotta tiled roofs throughout the city. To preserve this image, the city allows no billboards and has the strictest guidelines regarding the signs businesses can use. Just north of town, and directly east and adjacent to the beautiful Santa Barbara Mission, is a hill known locally as the "Riviera". The hillside, made accessible by the advent of the automobile early in the 20th century, is now built with some of the most expensive homes with fantastic views of the pacific and the city.

There are many places of historical interest in Santa Barbara including the El Presidio State Historical Park, The Museum of Natural History, the Santa Barbara Mission and Stow House & Maritime Museum. If you wish to truly enjoy this historical town, you must rent a Santa Barbara vacation rental. As there is sunshine throughout the year, you can enjoy your Santa Barbara vacation rental at any time of the year. Are you planning to spend your next vacation at this beautiful location? Then opt for our Santa Barbara vacation rental today. But be sure to consider a close by location if you find vacation rentals in Santa Barbara full or just too expensive.

I'm speaking of the quaint seaside town of Carpinteria, only 12 miles south of Santa Barbara. One standout Carpinteria Vacation Rentals facility is one of the very few privately-owned buildings on the sand anywhere in the Santa Barbara area: Carpinteria Shores Oceanfront Vacation Rentals.

You can find privacy and remarkable views somewhere else. . . but nothing compares with Carpinteria Shores. Every unit enjoys a view of the glorious Pacific Ocean. And every unit offers a patio or balcony as your private vantage point. Right outside your door, the Pacific Ocean is on it's best behavior, with gentle surf that makes it ideal for family fun. You can find affordable accommodations somewhere else, but you won't match our value. Select from a range of prices for our individually owned and decorated vacation rental units which sleep up to six comfortably. Everything is included except linens, which we're pleased to provide upon request. You can be confident in your home away from home because Carpinteria Shores is carefully managed by capable professionals and located just 12 miles south of Santa Barbara. You can find the perfect place to stay . . . nowhere else but Carpinteria Shores Vacation Rentals. There are accommodations in every price range, from inexpensive motels to bed and breakfasts.

Experience the natural beauty of the environment in a camp-like surrounding with all the creature comforts we have come to enjoy and expect. A return to the simple things in life that truly make us happy. It's possible only at Carpinteria vacation rentals.

by ANDREW WARREN

Holidays in Tenerife - The Paradise Island

If 'Tenerife' was to be described in one word, it would definitely be 'mesmerizing'. Tenerife welcomes its tourists with lush green forests, beautiful surroundings of mountains, deserts all together. The beaches add up to the beauty of this beautiful island. Alongside being a view for the eye, Tenerife also provides its visitors with world class hotels and a variety of cuisines to enjoy.

Special Attractions:

Although Tenerife has a lot of places to enjoy, mentioned below are some of the most famous tourist attractions here.

Teide National Park

It was in the year of 1954 when Teide was declared as a National Park. The park is situated at around 2000 metres from the seal level. In the summer months, dry landscape gives you a feeling like someone has freshly walked on it.

Loro Parque

Originally a parrot park, Loro Parque is amongst the main attractions of Tenerife. It is home to over three hundred species of parrot. Visitors can also enjoy sea-lion show, a Dolphin show, an aquarium with a shark tunnel and Tigers etc.

Beaches

While in Tenerife, tourists can enjoy a wide variety of beaches and with some man made beaches around too. There you will also find some of the famous tourist resorts which have maintained the European standards offering you the luxuries while you stay there.

Aqua Park

This Aqua Park is not far from Los Cristianos. Here you can enjoy dolphin show alongside enjoying the water rides, pools, and slides. A unique shuttle bus service is also available for Los Cristianos and Playa De Las, which is free of cost.

La Laguna

It is the second most famous city in Tenerife and is its old capital also. Here you can visit the San Fernando University and Bishop's Palace La Laguna, which is the religious and cultural capital. You can enjoy some of the best architectural monuments, places, and customary houses from the times of XVII and centuries. There are also great cathedrals one can visit.

When to visit Tenerife

The best thing about Tenerife is that you can visit this place at any time of the year, although the best time to visit it is between May an October, when you can enjoy the cool sea breeze. As for the air fares, they are very competitive during the months of November and December and from March to May. The weather here remains so pleasant there is no need for air conditioning even during the summers.

Food specialties at Tenerife

Here, the tourists can enjoy the Spanish food with influences from countries like African and Latin America. One can mainly find Canary Island specialties to eat at Tenerife. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of pubs and restaurants here. The Canarian cuisine consists of fresh vegetables, fruit, and fish and you will also find light meal which is easier to digest in the warm climate.

by Luki Johnson

Whilst Britain Basks in Sunshine

Whilst Britain basks in sunshine grab a short break in the UK before the weather changes again! Take advantage of some fantastic last minute price deals and make the most of the sun. If you can drop everything and go away over the next two weeks head for the sunny south coast-Haven Holidays' Combe Haven near Hastings is offering four night mid-week breaks from just ￡99 (arriving 12th or 19th May) in "Superior" self-catering holiday homes for up to six people.

Presthaven Sands in North Wales has four night breaks from ￡129 on May 19th or book a June weekend break at Caister Holiday park in Norfolk from just ￡149.

Haven offer loads for your money....the price includes a full programme of entertainment with kid's clubs, organised sports and activities and first class facilities with heated indoor pools and sports courts. Family shows with music, dancing and cabaret take place every night-at no extra charge.

New for this year is the Live Lounge at Combe Haven-a multi-million pound investment in a state of the art venue where holidaymakers can enjoy all day entertainment-with the atmosphere changing when the sun goes down to provide one of the top evening venues on the South coast.

And new fun on the agenda includes the Zoo Troop - an exciting role for Rory the Tiger and friends as eco-super-heroes-the new stage show is already proving hugely popular with children.

Other activities on offer include Wake and Shake (fitness before breakfast!), Aqua Gliders and Aqua Jets in the swimming pools, Water Tots sessions for little ones, fencing, archery and football! Some sessions are subject to a moderate extra charge - but at ￡99 for a four night break for a family of six-who cares!

Big Bear Cabin Rentals - Finding Cabins For Rent Near Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Cabin Rentals - Finding Cabins For Rent Near Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake, California is a four seasons resort community surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest. It is approximately 80 miles northeast of Los Angeles, California. The area offers a wide range of cabin rentals, and vacation rentals for year-round family fun. Treat your family to a trip they are sure to remember with a cabin rental to beautiful Big Bear Lake. Finding the right cabin rental or vacation home is easier than you think.

Surrounded by magnificent mountain scenery, towering pine trees, alpine lakes, and sparkling streams, Big Bear Lake is the perfect setting for your next cabin rental. Renting a cabin provides a great alternative to an ordinary hotel stay, and there are cabin rentals that fit any budget. Big Bear cabin rentals and vacation homes provide the perfect base for your outdoor activities. Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, boating, fishing, golfing, skiing, and many other activities in this beautiful mountain setting.

Big Bear cabins and vacation homes come in all shapes and sizes. Choose from rustic cabins, small cozy log or cedar cabins, or opt for large luxurious cabins or vacation homes. Whether you are looking for a small intimate cabin for two or something that can accommodate a larger group, the right cabin is waiting for you.

Here are some good resources to help you find cabins for rent or vacation homes in the Big Bear Lake area. Each of these offer a wide selection of cabin rentals and other vacation accommodations.

Big Bear Cool Cabins - Offers a nice selection of Big Bear Lake vacation rental properties. Vacation rentals range from 1 bedroom to 9 bedroom cabins and vacation homes. They also list lakefront cabins and vacation homes, along with pet friendly vacation rentals. Their website is: www.bigbearcoolcabins.com.

Big Bear Vacations - Accommodations include a large selection of vacation homes and cabins. They also own and manage Shore Acres Lodge. This lakefront lodge offers eleven, fully equipped, mountain cabins with many amenities. Luxury home rentals are also available through Big Bear Vacations. Their website is: www.bigbearvacations.com.

Big Bear Mountain Resort Rentals - Offers a wide selection of Big Bear cabins and vacation rentals. A nice feature about their site is that it has a handy cabin index. The index lists each property and provides you with vital information at a glance. Their website is: www.bigbear1.com.

Big Bear Lake is a favorite vacation spot for many, and certainly one of the most beautiful areas to rent a cabin. I hope these resources help you find the perfect cabin rental or vacation rental in Big Bear. Take the time to create lasting memories for you and your family. Make your next trip extra special by renting a cabin - you will be glad that you did!

Are you looking for more information on Big Bear Cabins?

Get more information on cabin rentals here: Big Bear Cabin Rentals

China's Most Beautiful Lake-The West Lake by sunny

Although there are many other West Lake "must see" sights. I believe a trip on the water is most essential, because, it is by taking to the water that gets you closest to the core beauty of the West Lake.

In the early 20th century．someone praised Hangzhou's color, saying that the city's beauty lay in the jade green color of the West Lake. Hangzhou has on three sides hills each with its own grace. As you stroll among them, you forget their physical bein9. The appreciation of the hills begins with your very first step, the very moment you leave your hotel room. Height is not what matters, but the spirit.

The beauty and profundity of Hangzhou cannot be described in just a few words, but they can be seen and felt. A trip on the lake will introduce the city and vice versa. Lake and city are a single entity. Take a trip on the water and you fall in love with the city.

As for museums, the Hu Mansion and the studios of several master painters will lead you into the heart of this city, let you feel the heartbeat of the city and feel the pulse of the spirit of the place.

Beach holidays in Albania

Albania has many beaches that remain unspoilt and untouched by mass tourism. This article describes three beach resorts and provides information that will help you to plan a vacation and enjoy the beauty of Albania’s coast before it is spoilt.

Albania has a long coastline on the Adriatic and Ionian seas. Much of it is very pretty with many sandy beaches, virtually untouched by main stream tourism. Identifying beach resorts in Albania and obtaining sufficient information about them to plan a vacation is still not easy. The Albania beach holiday travel tips that follow are intended to help identify and describe three of the country’s beach resorts.HimaraThe small port of Himara is situated at the foot of the Keravnia mountain in southern Albania, about eighty miles north of the Greek border and nearly opposite the Greek island of Corfu. As well as its close geographical proximity to Greece, the local inhabitants are mainly Greek speaking and the general atmosphere of the area provides an insight into how Corfu must have been in the days before mass tourism arrived. Himara Travel Tip:You will find several travel web sites listing accommodations in Himara. If you feel insecure about making your own arrangements in such an undeveloped country, holidays in this resort can also be booked through Sunvil, an ABTA tour operator.Dhermi and Drymades BeachesSeveral spectacularly beautiful beaches can be found in the Dhermi and Drymades area. There is even an over-sized, open air club called the Havana Bar on the main Dhemi beach. But otherwise the beach has made few concessions to tourism. The sea here is crystal clear and must surely be amongst the cleanest on the planet.Between Dhermi and the next major beach at Drymades, there are numerous pebble beach coves located between picturesque, rocky outcrops. They are all totally deserted and most are ideal for swimming or snorkelling.Drymades Beach is enormous, yet even at the height of summer, there are usually very few people to found on it. It has one relaxing little beach bar and behind it is a campsite and beach bungalows. There is also a holiday village complex offering good accommodation in the form of villas, cottages and hotel rooms. The complex has been developed tastefully and does not in anyway spoil this beautiful area.Drymades Beach Travel Tip:Consider staying at the Drymades Beach Complex if you are looking for a high standard of accommodation at very reasonable prices. Golem Beach Mali Robit ResortMali Robit is a resort, situated on the Adriatic coast at Golem Beach. It is situated about 30 miles from Tirana, the capital of Albania and six miles from the port of Dures. The beach here is sandy and provides safe bathing. It is a resort with a spectacular backdrop of rugged mountain scenery but it has made more concessions to tourism than most, with its beach being one of those long, straight, sun-bed and parasol types you find all over the Mediterranean. The major provider of accommodation is the Mali Robit resort hotel. This offers modern facilities, forty five apartments and five villas. There are other modern hotels at Golem beach and plenty of other types of accommodation.Golem beach travel tip:Although there is plenty of unspoilt places to visit in the surrounding area, only consider this resort if you prioritise high standards of accommodation and tourist facilities over staying in the "Real Albania"Go to Albania now – before it is spoilt Albania remains one of Europe’s poorest countries and it may take some time to develop its tourist potential to the extent where it becomes a mass tourist attraction. However, development of beach resorts in a country that is desperate for income can often occur haphazardly and without official sanction or well thought out planning. A picturesque village one year can be turned into a mess of half built concrete shells the next. Sadly, there are already plenty of examples of this having occurred. The best travel tip for enjoying the tranquillity and beauty of Albania’s coastal areas is to go now before it is too late.

Scintillating Shanghai

It's beyond someone imagination that how can a city that once humble fishing village besides Yangzte River grew into the biggest city of one of the most power full countries in the world - Shanghai, China.


Shanghai. It’s hard to imagine how this once humble fishing village at the mouth of the Yangzte River grew into China’s biggest city and the eighth largest in the world. And yet it has become the pride of China in more ways than one – a sprawling, progressive city with a proud, resplendent past. An epicenter for art and culture as much as it is for commerce. Yes, this cosmopolitan city has plenty to offer the curious tourist and Shanghai trip has become a popular option for those traversing the East. For first-timers, why not adopt a chronological order approach to sightseeing to truly get a taste of Shanghainese history?

Part I: Imperial Era – Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 A.D.)

In Puxi district (west bank), make your way to the Yuyuan Garden, a traditional Ming style private garden built in 1559 and opened to the public in 1961. Within the garden are rockeries, cloisters, pavilions, halls, ponds and many scenic areas.

Part II: 1930s

Visit the Bund (Wai Tan) where European architecture lines the streets. This area was once the financial and commercial districts in Shanghai, where foreign businesses and governmental buildings were established. Wander the French Concession where shikumen townhouses, art deco-buildings, cafés and shops stand. Evidence of the city’s hedonistic past can be seen in these colonial buildings abound. For those who want an authentic shopping experience, head to Nanjing Road.

Part III: 21st century

Cross the Huangpu River to Pudong, and you will find China’s Wall Street. For a grand city view from atop, head to the Oriental Pearl Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world.

There are numerous hotel options in Shanghai as well as an endless range of dining choices, from delicious street foods in Wujiang Road to upscale, expensive eateries in Xintiandi.

China celebrates a number of festivals and timing your trip to coincide with an event might be a good idea for folks who prefer a bona fide taste of Chinese culture. However, avoid going during the Spring Festival (Chinese New Year) in February because most places are closed. For more information try the official Shanghai city website.

So Much to Love in Virginia

Virginia is filled to the brim with natural beauty. It can be found along the Blue Ridge Parkway, a splendid 469-mile long non-commercialized route in the mountains. Here you can experience camping, hiking, fishing, bicycling, picnicking, overlooks and much more.

Another key spot for nature is the Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Once the home of Indians, then colonial farmers today visitors to the Refuge see the ospreys and bald eagles that make the marshes their home.

Virginia is also home to many American history treasures. You can visit five great historical gems in Charlottesville/Albemarle County: Monticello, University of Virginia campus, Ash Lawn-Highland, Court Square and Michie Tavern. Over in Hardy Virginia you can learn about the many contributions of Booker T. Washington at his national monument.

In July 1861, Union and Confederate forces faced off near Manassas Junction for the first major battle of the Civil War. The Manassas National Battlefield Park is a place for stories of courage and determination.

The Newsome House Museum & Cultural Center in Newport News is the restored 1899 residence of the African-American attorney J. Thomas Newsome. He played a central role in the fight for social justice within Virginia.

A wide range of history is on display at two family-friendly attractions. In Newport News, the Mariners’ Museum is the home of the USS Monitor exhibit. In Prince William County the National Museum of the Marine Corps showcases 200 years of Marine Corps history that shaped the world.

Captain John Smith discovered present-day Prince William County, Virginia nearly 400 years ago. Since then it has been rediscovered by countless travelers. Some enjoy the AmRhein Wine Cellars in Bent Mountain which specialize in unique Virginia-style wines with a German influence. Others prefer Charlottesville which is home to several orchards and farms where you can enjoy apples, strawberries and peaches. Check out what is in season during your visit.

To help plan your next Virginia vacation, you can use websites like www.FreeTravelBrochures.net. Here you can find free information from a collection of destinations. You can request brochures to be mailed to you. Many are available for instant download. And with the interactive magazine feature you can flip through the pages of travel publications and link directly to the websites for the locations that interest you.