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Travel Tips for Visiting Austria

Jan 14th, 2012
by multilingual.
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The modern nation of Austria was born at the close of World War I when the map of central Europe was reorganized. Today, the nation borders several countries including Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Slovakia, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. Austria is relatively simple for tourists to enter because it has signed the Schengen Agreement which provides free travel access throughout much of Europe.

Austria and Switzerland are both considered ideal locations for cheap holidays for winter sports because of the abundant snowfall in the Alps, which covers approximately 75% of the country and is particularly prominent in regions such as Tyrol, Salzburg, and Carinthia.

The most visited city in Austria is Vienna, which is located in the north-eastern region of Lower Austria. A favourite tourist activity in Vienna is visiting the restaurants and cafés which populate the city. The veal cutlet dish known as Weiner Schnitzel is something many visitors wish to try, but Vienna is probably most renowned for its dessert specialities including hot apple strudel and sweet dumplings filled with fruit. Vienna is also famous for the quality of its coffee and is one of the few capital cities in the world to boast its own local vineyards producing fine vintages of wine.

Posted in: Air Travel, Holidays, Travel Destinations.

Shopping In New York

Jan 12th, 2012
by multilingual.
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In just seven hours flying time from London, you could be in the most iconic shopping destination in the world, New York.  A long weekend in the Big Apple provides plenty of time for some serious retail therapy, as well as taking in a few of the cities’ biggest attractions.

Any shopping trip to New York would not be complete without a stroll down Madison Avenue.  High fashion brand names such as Prada, DKNY, Chanel and Hermes line the streets here, which is also a block over from Central Park should you need a rest.

Fifth Avenue is where the top department stores such as Bergdorf are located, and make sure you take in the famous Tiffany’s jewellery store, even if just to window shop.  Fifth Avenue is also the home of the Empire State Building, where the 86th floor observatory offers a wide panorama over the city day and night.

If there are children to buy for, make sure you swing by FAO Schwarz; its two enormous floors of toys include many unique mini stores, such as one where you can create your own Barbie, as well as exclusive cuddly animals and bears from the likes of famous manufacturers Steiff.

For a change of scene, try SoHo, a pretty outdoor mall with cobblestone streets, which has everything from outdoor artists’ stands with one off pieces to boutiques offering everything from home ware to shoes.

End your quick shopping break to New York with a cocktail at the Waldorf Astoria, before a short overnight hop home – although you might need to buy a larger suitcase.

Posted in: Air Travel, City Guide, Travel Destinations.

Narrowboating on the Fens

Jan 7th, 2012
by multilingual.
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Even the most novice of sailors can learn to handle a narrowboat in an hour or two, so the pleasures of a slow sail around some of the UK’s peaceful canals is a holiday option that all can consider.

Boats can generally be hired for a long weekend, a week, a fortnight or even more if you have some spare time and fancy getting further afield.

The Fens, in the east of England, are a popular boating spot.  Crossing several counties including Norfolk and Cambridgeshire, the Fens are a unique landscape.  Created around 200 years ago by the draining of low-lying marshlands and wetlands, the area is lush in wildlife and plant life, with summers seeing a riot of wild flowers.  Over 150 bird species can be found in various habitats, and keen fishermen can try their hand at catching a variety of species including pike, rudd and bream.

Many miles of waterways are accessible, with a number of fine historic cities and towns along the way – for example, visit Oliver Cromwell’s house in Ely in Cambridgeshire, and continue on to the ancient Saxon town of Downham Market.  The Fens are also within easy walking distance to many local pubs and restaurants so, self-catering is not compulsory.

Most boats are centrally heated and come with fridges, gas cookers and power supplies, as well as comfortable beds, so roughing it is not necessary.  Children are usually very welcome – just make sure they (and any pets) wear a flotation device at all times.

Posted in: Cruise Holidays, Travel Destinations, Travel Tips.

Your Hen Or Stag Weekend Does Not Always Have To Spell Trouble

Dec 24th, 2011
by multilingual.
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Getting married is one of the most important events in a man or woman’s life, but so is the stag or hens’ weekend.  Chances are that you and your future spouse will not be planning your last two days of freedom, but there are a few subtle suggestions that you can make to your bridesmaids and bestman.

There are plenty of activities that both parties can enjoy in locations such as Edinburgh. Ladies like to be pampered, and if you want to spoil yourselves spend an afternoon at a day spa.  Enjoy a relaxing massage and get your nails done.  The girls can indulge in a facial and have a professional make-up application to prepare them for the big night out. 

If the guys want to spend their afternoon doing something more manly check out some of the outdoor activities that are available.  The stag and his bestman can go paintballing or spend the day target shooting.  If you really want to test your skills you can compete in the Mini-Highland games.  Of course the outdoor activities are not just reserved for the boys, girls can also participate in white water rafting, and sphereing.

When the big night arrives have a three course dinner at a local restaurant and head out to a comedy club. Take a party bus and avoid the queues.  Go on a pub crawl, or dance the night away to a live band.  You can even show off your voice and participate in karaoke.

Keep your promise and spend your stag or hens’ weekend having good clean fun.  There are plenty of packages that include your hotel or apartment accommodation, meals, and activities.

Posted in: Holidays, Travel Guides, Travel Tips.

Mediterranean Cruises

Dec 12th, 2011
by multilingual.
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Sunshine, sea, beachcombing, history, architecture, shopping or sightseeing – whatever your holiday passion may be – a Mediterranean cruise can deliver the goods!  The range of cruise options for the Mediterranean is fantastic. Choose whether to sail from Southampton or to fly out to meet your ship. Decide if you want a European city cruise visiting Rome, Barcelona, Athens, Naples and Monte Carlo or whether you prefer a concentrated stay, for example cruising the Greek isles. 

Cruising has come such a long way, which is why its popularity continues to grow year upon year.  One of the many great advantages of cruising is its flexibility and cruising the Mediterranean is no different.  You can extend your Mediterranean cruise to include the Middle East and visit Israel, Jordan and Egypt or extend it further south, visiting the North African destinations of Marrakesh, Casablanca and Tunis.

A Mediterranean cruise on board a luxurious cruise ship and visiting a wealth of destinations is now, in real terms, no more expensive than a traditional holiday and yet, with the Mediterranean cruise, you get so much more.  A wealth of experience and pleasure awaits you on board.  Allow the professional crew to make your holiday experience extra special with gourmet cuisine, fine wines and great nightly entertainment, theatre shows and movies under the stars.  People of all ages – children, teenagers, singles, couples and families – enjoy Mediterranean cruising. There is something for everyone on a Mediterranean cruise.

Whether you are looking for that last minute holiday bargain or are looking at 2012 cruises, check out the current cruise deals and snap up a bargain for you and your family for the cruising holiday of a lifetime. 

Posted in: Cruise Holidays, Holidays, Travel Destinations.

Fly To Italy And Eat To Your Heart’s Content

Dec 6th, 2011
by multilingual.
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These days one of the most popular holidays involves exploring the local cuisine, and if you are a true foodie, consider booking a food-lover’s holiday.  Every city in the world has in-depth tours where you can sample the local cuisine and eat to your heart’s content, but one of the most popular places to curb your appetite is Italy. 

Italy is home to the great cities of Rome, Venice and Florence and has some of the most delectable food in the world.  Book a tour and travel to all three cities.  Start your tour in Rome and visit authentic Italian food markets, bakeries and gourmet boutiques.  Taste some of the best wines in Rome and sample the most delicious pizza in the country.  Travel to Florence and go on a food lovers walking tour.  Not only will you enjoy local cuisine, but you will also get the opportunity to shop for local delicacies like olive oil, cheese and balsamic vinegar.  The best part of the tour is lunch at a locally owned family-run trattoria.  Bring your appetite as the owners of this delightful restaurant will not let you leave until you are full and content. 

Venice has a few different food tours for you to consider.  You can walk and eat your way through the city and sample delicious seafood, or go on a restaurant tour.

If you want to do more than eat, consider taking a cooking class.  Tuscany has some wonderful week-long holidays that will teach you how to make your own pasta and the most delicious pizza that you will ever eat.

Posted in: Air Travel, Holidays, Travel Destinations.

Use Your Profession for Cheap Cruises

Nov 24th, 2011
by multilingual.
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Cruising has become a great way to travel as it offers the perfect combination of relaxation and activities. Whether you have experienced several cruises already or are considering taking your first cruise, there is an efficient yet relatively unknown way to take advantage of cheap cruises.

Cruise lines sometimes offer special prices to those of a certain age or of a certain profession. You may not know that from time to time some cruise lines offer discounts to customers who are over 55 years of age. They also offer special discounts for people in certain professions, such as health workers, firefighters, military personnel, police and teachers. Cruise discounts can also be had for those who are singles – yes, singles can get discounts as well, and so can past guests. Cruise ships do appreciate the loyalty of their clients and will often offer a discount or a cruise ship credit. There are many cruise companies that offer past guests’ discounts, two of which are Princess and Carnival cruises.

If you are 55 or over on the day of departure you may be able to receive an age-related discount. To get the discount, only one person from the cabin is required to be at least 55. This will allow everyone staying in the cabin to benefit from the discount. Carnival, Costa Cruises and Celebrity are the lines that offer these cheap cruises.

With an official ID badge and driver’s licence or passport, other discounts can be applied to those of certain professions. For health workers; Pullmantur, Costa Cruises, Holland America, MSC and Royal Caribbean will honour a discount. Teachers will need to book with Costa Cruises, MSC, Holland America or Pulmantur. 

Cheap cruises can also be found on Holland America, Pullmantur, Celebrity, Costa, MSC and Royal Caribbean for firefighters, while military personnel can enjoy discounts with a large variety of cruise lines. To qualify you must provide proof via relevant documentation at the time of booking. In some instances military veterans may also be eligible, as well as spouses of actively deployed or deceased military personnel.

To see if you qualify for cheap cruises through a professional discount, check with your travel agent before you book.

Posted in: Cruise Holidays, Holidays, Travel Tips.

A City Break in Rome

Nov 18th, 2011
by multilingual.
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This hugely historic city is full of surprises.  Architectural hints of its thousand year old existence are present alongside hip bars and themed restaurants, all giving off an Italian sense of cosmopolitan feel.  There is an almost year-round temperature hovering around 30 degrees Celcius.

The Vatican Museums are certainly worth seeing but be prepared to queue up to see some of the popular masterpieces, such as the Sistine Chapel ceiling if you have not booked in advance.  The Coliseum is immense and much larger than how it looks on photographs.  The Domus Aurea Palace, built by Roman Emperor Nero is a masterpiece that gives a snippet of Roman Empire life.  Near the centre of Rome you will also find the Baths of Caracalla, the ruins beneath San Clemente church as well as San Giovanni in Laterano.

Now if you are not much into sightseeing, then you can literally shop until you drop in the many shopping arcades, upmarket malls or boutiques.  You will find everything from designer clothes to token souvenirs round Rome’s shopping districts, and of course, should you want to stop for a coffee, pizza or ice cream, then the city centre will have you spoilt for choice.

Posted in: City Guide, Holidays, Travel Destinations.

Virgin Galactic – fly into space!

Nov 11th, 2011
by multilingual.
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Space. Once considered the final frontier, reserved for the elite few with the right military backgrounds, or those in the entertainment world whose imaginations were far reaching enough to transport the rest of us there.

Now for the first time, since John F Kennedy declared “We choose the moon”, there is a commercial space program beginning that’s designed to put the average person who wants to boldly go where few have gone before amongst the stars.

Virgin Galactic was founded by Sir Richard Branson in March 1999 with the single vision of bringing commercial space flight to the world.  After spending five years developing a vehicle that could make multiple space flights safely, Branson’s company was awarded the Ansari X prize, a $10m fund to further develop a commercial space flight program.  In 2009 Virgin Galactic unveiled Eve to a packed hanger in the Mojave Desert and announced the start of the test flight program prior to commercial operations.

Seats on a Virgin Galactic flight start at $200,000. Once you have made a deposit of $20,000, you will have access to all development forums conducted by Sir Richard Branson.  You’ll also be invited to attend the unveiling of all major milestones up to your own flight.

Prospective astronauts will come to Spaceport America where they will undergo three days of training in which they will learn how to be comfortable in zero, micro and macro gravity situations, as well as basic emergency response procedures.  Team bonding will be an important element.

Virgin Galactic has developed a unique air launch procedure that excludes all the risks associated with ground launching.  Once launched, the craft accelerates to supersonic speed and astronauts orbit the Earth within seconds.  It also requires less fuel, making commercial space flights the cleanest intergalactic endeavour yet.

Once in space, commercial astronauts will enjoy room to float in the zero gravity environment and large windows will give them panoramic and unrivalled views of the Earth.

Virgin Galactic anticipates the cost of commercial space flight will reduce drastically as time goes on and hopes to welcome many more people to the dawn of a new space age.

Posted in: Air Travel.

Exploring France Top to Bottom

Nov 6th, 2011
by multilingual.
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Considered one of the world’s most popular destinations, France can easily be considered a country that has it all. From the lights of Paris with its elegant boutiques and famous art to the lavender fields of Provence and the pebbled beaches of Nice, France really does have something to offer everyone. Combine this with its many storybook castles and exclusive vineyards and you can quickly see why it is such a popular destination.

The breadth of variation is what adds to the country’s charm. Old boulevards and the sloping Alps simply make France a desired holiday retreat. Many who visit France will begin their holidays in Paris. Considered one of the world’s greatest cities, Paris offers great cuisine, world renowned shopping and of course, many famous sites including the Eiffel Tower.

Strasbourg is another beautiful city in France. Situated along the German border, this magnificent city has a strong German influence that only adds to its charm. This city is home to the country’s only national theatre, outside of Paris that is. Strasbourg also hosts two exciting international music festivals each year that draw thousands to the area.

Strasbourg is also home to a UNESCO World Heritage site. The site, which is the Grande Ile, is located in the south western part of the island. When touring Strasbourg, don’t miss out on the city’s greatest landmark, the Cathedral Notre Dame.

Wine enthusiasts will no doubt want to head off to the well-known Bordeaux region of France in search of some world-renowned grapes. Aside from famous wine, there lies a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The impressive 18th century centre is a restored building that only accents this magnificent Bordeaux part of the country. This region of France is beyond magical and makes for a perfect romantic holiday.

Posted in: Air Travel, Holidays, Travel Destinations.

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