MashaTravel

Budapest is a majestic city, split in two by the incredible River Danube. One half, Buda, is a classic mix of medieval architecture and beautiful sights, and the other half, Pest is the more lively modern side. Both parts of the great city prove an excellent place to visit and the city buzzes with excellent things to do and see. The top 10 things to do when you visit the city are as follows.

1. Take a trip to St Stephen’s Basilica. It was built between 1851 and 1905 and is a huge parish church which can accommodate a total of 8500 people. Inside there are beautiful statues as well as a magnificent, 300-foot, neo-Renaissance dome.

2. Take a boat trip. As the River Danube is so striking this is one of the top things to try when you’re in the city- you can sit back on deck with a glass of wine and admire the beautiful sights of the Hungarian capital. You can either go on a public river cruise or rent a private boat, and with a private boat there are often additional extras like a lunch buffet, live body tables and belly dancers.

3. In summer eat at an outdoor café. Since Budapest has a consistently decent climate springtime and summertime are both glorious. The agreeable summer in the city is usually warm, sunny and long. Sit at an outdoor café and relax as you watch Hungarian life go by.

4. Take a ride on the Budapest beer bicycle. This is a great option if you’re looking for something a bit different to do on your trip. The bicycle itself is a huge carriage with 14 seats which allows you and your guests to sit and marvel the beautiful streets and open squares of the city, while drinking beer.

5. Go to the thermal baths. One of the top experiences in Budapest is the thermal baths, which are naturally hot due to the underground geothermal activity. The city is known as The City of Healing Waters because the water in the thermal baths has medicinal qualities. There are also saunas and steam rooms.

6. Embrace the nightlife. Budapest has one of Europe’s best nightlife scenes with each street turning up another hidden gem. Take a trip to Morrison’s Music Pub for some cheesy music underground in the cellar, or head to Liszt Ferenc square which is full of great, busy bars.

7. Go to Faust Wine Cellar. The oldest wine cellar in Budapest provides a traditional, wine-scented atmosphere and an excellent range of drinks. Sit at the quaint tables and taste a selection of first-rate wines.
8. Try the fiery goulash soup. It’s authentic Hungarian food at its very best, their spicy goulash is thoroughly delicious and a must-try if you’re holidaying there. It’s packed with beef, Hungarian paprika and chilli to truly set your mouth on fire.

9. Go to Buda Castle. The castle is huge, towering over the city, and is beautifully built. It was destroyed by a fire in World War II but the 13th-century palace was rebuilt with modern interiors while keeping the hidden walls and medieval structures which stayed hidden over the centuries. The views from the castle are also breathtaking, as well as the Castle’s grounds.

10. Visit the Fisherman’s Bastion. This beautiful bastion features Disney-esque turrets and pointed towers and is perfect for a picture opportunity. It was built during the 19th century for Hungarian Millennium celebrations and you can eat the top of the hill as well while looking over Pest.

That’s the top 10 but there are many other options for things to do in Budapest so no matter what you decide to do you’re sure to have a great time.

This is a guest post written by Gen from StagWeb. Visit their website to book your Budapest stag Weekend. 

If you’re not quite ready to begin your college years, taking a break may be a good way to clear your head and sharpen your focus. There are a lot of beautiful places to see in this world, but of all your choices, taking a gap year in South Africa may be your best. South Africa is full of amazing sites and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, some of which you’ll read about here.

Tee it Up

The country of South Africa has some of the planet’s best golf courses, all of which are surprisingly affordable. Nowhere else can you play 18 holes alongside ostriches and crocodiles! If you don’t want to spend all your time on the course, many of South Africa’s golf resorts have opulent spa facilities.



Ride an Ostrich

In this dry area of South Africa, you can try your hand at riding one of these gangly flightless birds. There are countless ostrich farms in the semi-desert area of Oudtshoorn, and if you’re feeling super-confident, you can even race on an ostrich! Once you’re done for the day, you can dine on delicious ostrich-containing dishes such as pate or biltong.


Sleep in a Tree House

Gap year lodging in a tree house is both eco-friendly and cost-effective. There are several choices, such as Teniqua Treetops, Sycamore Avenue, and Pezulu Tree House Game Lodge. All tree house lodging will allow you to get back to nature, and perhaps come face-to-face with a giraffe.


Surf the South African Coastline

The coast of South Africa is dotted with bays and points, and as all surfers know, they make great places to catch a few waves. The quality of surf depends heavily on swell size and wind direction, and for that very reason, the Cape Peninsula provides great surfing opportunities every day of the year. Don’t just hit the Cape, though- South Africa is home to plenty of other great spots.


Hike on the Wild Coast

The Eastern Cape Region is one of the most isolated and beautiful regions on earth, and much of it can only be accessed on foot. A hike here will allow you to see pristine beaches, forests, rivers and waterfalls; it will also allow you to learn more about indigenous cultures such as the Xhosa.


Soak up the Luxury

As a tourist destination, South Africa is ideally suited to pamper guests. Most small hotels and game lodges offer some spa amenities, some in beautiful outdoor settings. The spas are so nice there, you may not be able to tear yourself away for the next game tour!

Get Close to the Wildlife

There’s a small public area at Boulders Beach near Cape Town, separated by a fence from the resident colony of penguins. The birds largely ignore the fence, though, and are likely to come up to you freely. There is also a boardwalk around the dunes, so visitors can observe the entire colony. More adventurous types can try cage-diving with great white sharks. This is a relatively new sport in South Africa, and there are several tour companies offering cage-diving packages.


Ride the Rails

Before finishing in South Africa, there are several train rides you should consider. The most well-known is the Blue Train, which has a route between Pretoria and Cape Town. One way, the journey is 27 hours, but that time will be spent in luxury while you enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

Blue Train

Take a River Ride

Canoeing and rafting is best during the spring (which lasts from the middle of August to the middle of September), when the desert areas around the rivers come alive in colorful wildflower blooms. Take a trip down the Orange River, which starts in the Drakensberg Mountains and makes its way toward the Atlantic. There are many tour companies offering canoeing and rafting expeditions down the Orange river, most operating out of Richtersveld National Park.

South Africa has a lot of amazing sights to see and great things to do, but you don’t have to end your adventure there. After you’ve had your African adventure, continue your gap year in Sri Lanka and India, then move on to other Southeast Asian countries such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Malaysia. Enjoying your year before college in this part of the world is an experience you will never forget!

This post was written by James Harper on behalf of Sport Lived who can help students and young people choose a gap year holiday in South Africa or  Sri Lanka

Although Chicago may not have all of the chic, city-slick attitude of New York or the quintessentially cool vibe of Los Angeles, there is one thing that Chicago does better than all the rest – food. Visitors to the city may be familiar with the pizza or hot dogs, but the best grub that Chicago has to offer is the imaginative, fresh cuisine that pours from the city's best fine-dining restaurants and tapas bars. In addition to great food, Chicago also offers unparalleled unique wines and beers at specialized bars that can cure even the most fervent foodie's addiction. So if you have had enough of architecture tours and baseball parks, then take some time off to enjoy the cuisine scene of Chicago.

Fine dining restaurants always conjure up a fearsome image of an immense stretch of forks and knives and crystal goblets, but many of the best restauranteurs know how to do it differently. For example, the geniuses behind Tru and Everest have created fantastic French-fusion menus that flow seamlessly from the modern to the classic. The service is impeccable, the plating gorgeous and the wine lists will change your world. NoMi, the world-class establishment located in the upper floors of the Hyatt on Michigan Avenue, makes homemade new American dishes with a little bit of European flair in addition to offering beautiful views of downtown Chi-town. Last but not least, make a reservation at Alinea for the final word in innovative foods. At any of these restaurants, you don't even have to make a choice for dinner, just sit back and allow the amazing staff to bring delectable dishes to your table.

The first time that I visited Chicago, I was completely blown away by the wine lists that even the blandest restaurants have. After all, who would have that the Midwest would have a great appreciation for fine wines? But boy do they ever. Chicagoans don't just limit their palates to wines however. Beers and cocktails are also held in high regard and many bars specialize in creative pairings. For wine bars, hit up avec, Rootstock and the Purple Pig. Every one of these has a selection of wine that is breathtaking in both the spectrum and versatility. They also don't mess around when it comes to their menus with new items that cater to every taste. Hopleaf Bar has a crazy selection of both tap and bottled beers while Goose Island Brewing allows tours of their brewery. For cocktails, try the Aviary, an amazing lounge that combines the best from the minds of Alinea and Next.

Finally, this list wouldn't be complete without attempting to answer that most difficult question: who has the best pizza in the city? Everyone disagrees and many have tried to give a definitive answer, but it's sadly impossible. There are just too many great pizzerias. The ones that have my vote are Pat's on Lincoln, Pequod's Pizzeria and Lou Malnati's, but visitors will have to make up their own minds. For all that Chicago has to offer, this list just barely scrapes the surface, but touring the food of the city is an essential part of any visit.

Written by the Marketing Department for car accident lawyer, Paul E. Lee

The tales of America’s Old West are full of accounts of hardship and heroism, and none hold the fascination of tragedy more than the story of the ill-fated Donner Party.

A true “perfect storm” of events doomed the wagon train of 87 people that pulled out of Springfield, IL, in April 1846 with such high hopes.  By the time the group had rolled across the plains and through the Rocky Mountains on their way to California, events had conspired to turn the hopeful start of a new life into a catastrophe.

California’s Donner Memorial State Park, north of Lake Tahoe, is situated at the exact spot where many of the members of the Donner Party lost their lives.  The Emigrant Trail Museum, the Pioneer Monument, and the various cabin sites all hold testimony to what the members of the Donner Party endured during the harsh winter of 1846-1847.

The Donner Party wagon train had moved along well enough until taking an ill-advised shortcut that turned out to be a disastrous decision. Among other things the “shortcut” took the pioneers across the Great Salt Lake Desert, where many wagons, horses, and cattle were lost.

The final insult was ending up at the Sierra Nevada Mountains too late in the season to make it safely through the range.  Here they were trapped by unrelenting winter snows that covered the ground at an astonishing 22 feet, effectively eliminating any chance of finding fresh game and ultimately forcing the Donner Party to resort to cannibalism.

The Pioneer Monument at the Donner Memorial State Park is constructed near the original Donner Party cabin sites. It was dedicated in 1918 in a ceremony that included Donner Party survivors. The top of the shaft of the Monument is 22 feet, giving visitors a dramatic idea of how much snow the emigrants faced that winter.

The Emigrant Pioneer Museum exhibits artifacts not only of the Donner Party, but also relating to the area’s local Native Americans, particularly the Washoe Tribe, as well as the builders of the Transcontinental Railroad. Special campfire presentations on the fascinating history of the Donner Party and other pioneer emigrants who came through the area are conducted by State Park rangers.

Cabin Sites. One of the Donner Party cabins was built against a large granite boulder. Today this boulder, the  Murphy cabin site, is 200 yards from the Museum, and is where four families crammed into a small space and attempted to make it through the winter.

Another cabin site, known as the Schallenberger  Cabin site, is where a small cabin was built by three men in 1844. Moses Schallenberger and his companions were members of the Stephens-Townsend Party, the first pioneers to take wagons over the Sierra Nevada, opening the Truckee Route of the California Trail. Two years later members of the Donner Party were able to make use of the then abandoned cabin.

Besides a National Historical Site, the Donner Memorial State Park is also a beautiful State Park for enjoying the great outdoors. Recreational opportunities abound, including fishing and boating on Donner Lake. The Lakeshore Interpretive Trail is a 2.5-mile round trip hike that passes by eighteen interpretive trail markers and exhibits of the history of the pioneer emigration to California, as well as explanations of the area’s geology and ecology.


Camping sites are available in and around the State Park. Budget-friendly  timeshare rentals are also available on both the North and South shores of nearby Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America.

Alice Perkins is a timeshare travel blogger for RedWeek.com, the largest online market place for timeshare rentals, where vacationers can find luxury accommodations for less than the cost of a typical hotel room.

Now, when the summer is close to its end, we can let ourselves relax for a moment and forget about the changing water and upcoming winter by going through these pictures of some of the most beautiful places in the world. From the Providenciales Island to Jamaica, from Aruba to Mexico and Florida, an essay writer research will take us for a swim around some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, in the summer of 2012. Enjoy.

Providenciales



Providenciales is an island in the Turks and Caicos Islands and one of the world’s top beach destinations. Among the most famous ones is the beach at Grace Bay. Providenciales is great vacation destination not only for families and romantic couples on their honeymoon, relaxing on its uncrowded beaches, but is also a lot of fun for the divers and snorkelers who often flock here to explore the abundant barrier reefs, especially the Smith's Reef and its well-known ocean floor walk.

Palm/Eagle Beach, Aruba


The Aruba Island is not only one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in the world, but it also has very opulent history and culture. Its most beautiful beaches are the Palm Beach, on the west side of the island, and the Caribbean Eagle Beach, both equally mesmerizing thanks to their powdery white sands and turquoise waters that offer perfect swimming conditions. If you are willing to dive you wouldn’t want to miss the opportunity to see the wreck of the torpedoed tanker Pedernales.






Tulum, Mexico



Tulum is a combination of relaxation, romance and archeology. The tourists can sunbathe on the gorgeous long sand beaches, under the tall coconut palm trees or swim in the wide turquoise waters, at the same time enjoying the well-preserved ancient ruins of the Pre-Columbian Mayan walled city on the side. The modern parts of Tulum have luxurious hotels that offer the traditional ancient Mayan massage and spa treatments for their guests. Is there anything more beautiful than this?


Negril, Jamaica


Negril is a small beach resort town located in Jamaica. Its most famous Seven Mile Beach is ranked among the best beach destinations in the whole world by different travel magazines. The snorkelers and divers will love the West End Road known as the "Negril Cliffs", with jumping points over 40 feet (12 m) high. There also are nude beaches for those who want their tan to be more even. Negril is unique in its laid back atmosphere and friendliness. It’s definitely a place for a fun holiday.

Saint Pete Beach, Florida



This ideal seaside destination, known for its pristine sugary white sand beaches and the clear gulf waters, is situated on a Florida's west coast peninsula, offering warm sunshine and plenty of hospitality to its guests. The frolicking dolphins, corals and the diverse deep-sea world make the Saint Pete Beach the perfect choice for a summer vacation. The guests can also visit the nearby world known Salvador Dali Museum, the Fort De Soto Park, as well as the St. Petersburg Pier.

 by Allan Ryckman

 Many people desire to see the breathtaking landscapes and visit the majestic attractions of Peru. The Inca city of Machu Picchu is among the most sought after of the ancient sites. Permits for Inca Trail tours are required by the government for those who wish to attend.

The more prominent archaeological finds of the Inca empire lay along this trail. With so many people wishing to traverse it, in order to properly conserve the aging structures, the Peruvian government has deemed it a necessity to limit how many tourists are allowed each year. There are no treks offered in February since that is the time set aside for the performance of maintenance projects.

The 43km roadway offers travelers some of them more awe-inspiring views available in the majestic Andes mountains. While hiking this trail, a person will experience amazing full panoramic views of green valleys, spots of jungle and even a passage through incredible rainforests. Spaces are in great demand so it is advisable to begin arrangements several months in advance.

Beginning in January, the government will begin selling the permits that will allow tourist to hike this historic roadway. Each journey will be between 2 and 7 days. No more than 500 people are allowed in a given space on a single day. This number is usually made up of approximately 300 staff and 200 visitors.

The government posts an annual calendar that will let everyone know how many permits will be issued for each day. Except for the first round, they are awarded on a first come, first served basis. Because they sell out so quickly, it is strongly advised to that travelers purchase their passes several months in advance.

Passes to this attraction are strictly regulated. Travelers should be sure to research their trekking companies carefully to make sure they are legitimate. Any agent that offers to place clients on a waiting list for a fee is one to be avoided. There are no backups because permits are non-transferable and non-refundable.

Every guide allowed on this passage must be licensed by the Peruvian government in order to handle treks. All tours should include all the major sites to fulfill the requirements on the permits. A daily itinerary should be made available to all interested clients so that they may check the validity of their choice of agent.

Once the government has issued a permit, there will be no refunds even if the client is unable to join the trek. Only the person listed on the pass will be allowed to use it, so if being given as a gift, the information of the recipient must be provided at the time of application. Once the papers have been awarded, the date of the journey is set and can not be altered.

Information on permits for Inca Trail treks is closely verified against the passport that was used to file the application. Everything must match perfectly and the document must be valid for six months or more following the date the traveler enters Peru. Only after inspectors have been satisfied that the attendee is the one listed on the papers will one be allowed to begin their journey. Restrictions are not adjustable so clients are advised to inform themselves before proceeding with the process.


You can get a brief summary of the reasons why you should visit Junín and tips on how to book and guarantee your permits for Inca trail treks at http://www.tucantravel.com/travel-highlights/inca-trail-trek/booking-and-inca-trail-permit now.


 Source: 

by: MTraveler

Visit Ghana, a beautiful African country, using the services of professional travel agents who possess a good knowledge of the local conditions and skills to organize your tour in the best and inexpensive way.

Ghana is one of the most unique countries in the African continent. The ancient history of this land shows the world a great many of unique cultures and peoples. The Empire of Ghana flourished here in the Middle Ages. The medieval Kingdom of Mali helped one of the most colorful African ethnic groups, Ashanti, to foster their culture that can now be studied by tourists. The modern Republic of Ghana was formed from the former British colonies of Gold Coast and Togoland and became the first country in the region that gained independence in 1957. Colonial history has left the strongest imprint on modern Ghana.

Ghana is an African 'castle country'. The two coastal forts, the British Usher Fort and the Danish Kristianborg castle, were the place where the capital of Ghana, Accra, was founded. Up to this day, it has preserved these historic neighborhoods. Near the center of the capital, one will find Makola Market, the best place to buy batik and glass-art products made by local craftsmen.

Jamestown is a small peninsula on the south-west of the capital. It is an area of picturesque ruins of the past which are neighboured by the settlements of the city's poorest people. Independence Square in Accra is considered by many to be the copy of the Red Square in Moscow; it is a very picturesque place of regular festive military parades.

Accra Arts Center is located between Independence Square and the city center. It hosts a museum and a permanent exhibition, where the products of local artisans are sold. The Arts Center is also a good venue for regular song festivals, dance performances and theatrical troupes. Nearby is one of the few in Africa full-fledged dance clubs, Nkrumah Circle. From the south, the capital city is bordered by beautiful beaches, some of which coreespond to the world standards: Coco Beach, Nungu and others.

To the north of the capital, there is quite an interesting Aburi Botanical Garden, which was opened in 1890. To the west of the capital, there lies the town of Kokrobit, the location of a unique African institution, the African Academy of Music and Art with numerous schools of vocal and dance skills, exhibition halls and art studios. There is also a beautiful hotel, a restaurant and a well-groomed beach area. The number of exhibitions, concerts and festivals held here is huge.

Along the coast, there are old European fortresses, reaching 15 in number. Hundreds of fishing villages give you an insight into the local traditions. One of the most visited villages is Senja Beraku. It is populated by very friendly people and has a magnificent beach, the cleanest one in the region, which is a kind of Mecca for surfers. Apamea, another small fishing village, is famous for its Fort Patience, reconstructed as a hotel.

The main town of the region, Cape Coast, is famous for its Castle of Cape Coast and a few nearby castles. Some of the local Dutch castles were literally brought from Holland and rebuilt in Ghana. The very popular among tourists Kakuma National Park is created for the protection of the coastal populations of antelope, monkeys, elephants and more than 200 species of birds.

Kumasi is the ancient capital of the Ashanti kingdom, which still retains a reputation as one of the leading cultural centers in West Africa. The local National Cultural Center is a charming museum of the history of the Ashanti people with a library and a trade center. In Kumasi, you can also visit an original Zoo, organized so well that in fact it is an exact copy of a piece of local nature, grown with vegetation and looking even more like a botanical garden. Be sure to visit a lot of colorful celebrations and festivals, so admired by the people of this country.


------

Travel agencies in Ghana are ready to answer your online requests and provide a good tour estimate. Ghana tour operators will send you offers with best rates for flights, hotels and tours.

Source: 

by: MTraveler

Review a list of Gambia travel agencies who can provide professional assistance in preparing your journey to this African destination. They can offer such things as cheaper flights, better and safer hotels and other important services.

The Republic of Gambia, often referred to as Gambia, is a country in the western part of Africa. Gambia is the smallest country on the continent, and it surrounded by Senegal practically from all sides, except for a small patch of coastline in the Atlantic Ocean. Gambia is home to some white sand beaches. The main beach resorts include Kololi, Kotu and Cape Point.

The country is situated along the Gambia River, which flows right through the country's center into the Atlantic Ocean. Gambia is home to the population of about 1.7 million. Gambia has a few noteworthy landmarks and monuments. Perhaps the most famous of them are the Senegambia Stone Circles, which serve as burial sites, joined together in large numbers and looking more like pillars.

Those, who visit the country's capital, the city of Banjul, will surely need to see the Arch 22, Fort Bullen and the Banjul State House. This trio creates the group of the city's most popular landmarks. There are also the important historical remains of Fort James in James Island.

Gambia is a small country, but even in terms of its size Banjul is tiny. However, it leads to certain advantages: the city is pleasant and clean, friendly and unlike bustling large cities. Banjul is situated on St Mary's Island on the banks of the River Gambia. It is a great place to get acquainted with the culture of the country. The centre is known for many old British colonial buildings, colourful street markets and craft stalls. Boat excursions to Albreda are offered to familiarize the visitors with the period of slave trading as one of the biggest mistakes of the mankind. Banjul's most impressive building is the State House, which is the seat of government and the office of the country's president.

Arch 22 is considered the highest structure in Gambia, dominating the city streets of Banjul. It commemorates the military revolution that brought President Yahya Jammeh to power. The arch itself is constituted of three floors, with spiral stairs and elevators. Already from the second floor, one can get a great view over the whole city of Banjul. There is also a small cafe and a shop here.

Senegambia Stone Circles can be found on the north bank of the Gambia River. Often called Wassu Stone Circles, they are seen as one of the more important destinations. It is widely believed that these are ancient burial sites. The stones are huge and reach almost three meters in height. Visitors can find out more about the Wassu stone circles in a visitor centre.

Fort Bullen was aimed at fighting off French slavers along the River Gambia. After being abandoned for some time, the fort was revived again during World War II, when it was used as an observatory and a base for British artillery. Today, Fort Bullen is one of Gambia's best historic monuments.

Another historic attraction, Fort James, lies in ruins. However, it still conveys the sense of history of the country. Fort James was located in the place where many slaves waited for ships to take them to America. At other times, the fort was occupied by the British, French and Dutch authorities. Gambia is known to have 7 natural reserves and national parks, which occupy 3.6% of the territory of the country. Abuko Nature Reserve has a great variety of wildlife, including porcupines, monkeys, and reptiles, such as lizards, geckos and snakes. It was created back in 1968 not far from the capital of the country. Apart from Abuko, Gambia is famous for its protected forests and marshes, special reserves for birds and chimpanzees.


------

Travel agencies in Gambia are awaiting your travel requests to provide a free quote. Gambia tour operators are the companies who offer basic travel services, such as excursions, tours, hotels and flights.

Source: 

by: Robert Bell

If you are planning a trip to Bear Lake, Utah, no matter what the season may be, you won't have to worry about finding something for your or your family to do.

Bear Lake is not only a beautiful rural, historical and recreational paradise shared by Idaho and Utah, it is also one of the largest natural lakes in the Western United States. Some call it the "Caribbean of the Rockies" due to its intense turquoise blue water. With 45 miles of paved road surrounding the lake, there is tons of pubic beach access and activities for all.

So what are the top ten things one should consider doing while at Bear Lake? Here are some suggestions:

1. Snow Skiing - The skier in you will love Bear Lake Utah. With two wonderful ski resorts to choose from, Beaver Mountain Ski Resort in nearby Logan Canyon and Pine Creek Ski Resort outside of Cokeville, Wyoming - you won't run out of places to go and enjoy the snow at. Beaver Mountain is one of Utah's best-kept secrets. There are over 664 acres here to be skied upon. Beaver Mountain Ski Resort also boasts that it is one of the best-maintained slopes around. It has a northeast exposure in the morning for bright and sunny conditions and very little wind, which makes Beaver Mountain one of the all-around Utah ski resorts. But don't forget about Pine Creek Ski Resort either. This resort has over 1450 vertical feet, 30 runs with great powder and differing in degrees of difficulty, high-speed quad lift, and the shortest lines for miles.

2. Snowmobiling - With thousands of acres of fresh, untouched powder to play on in breathtakingly scenic mountain country, snowmobiling opportunities abound. There are snowmobile rental companies who will not only provide you with your machine but also a guide. The trails around Bear Lake are known mostly to be untouched which allows you to explore without the crowds while being surrounded by pure beauty.

3. Fishing - Whether you travel in the winter for ice fishing or the summer for some great trout fishing, Bear Lake is the place to be. Anglers love Bear Lake due to the fact it has four species of fish that cannot be found anywhere else in the world, with the Bonneville Cisco being the most well known.

For ice fishing, Bear Lake can become ice covered, which makes jigging for trout and whitefish a favorite activity for those who will brave the cold outdoors to fish. The Montpelier Reservoir is also a close place to go ice fishing. Located only minutes east of Montpelier, Idaho, active rainbow trout are the main attraction.

4. Swimming -The beaches of Bear Lake provides a whole lot of fun for everyone in the family. When visiting the lake in the summer, be sure to bring a sun umbrella, a picnic lunch and a beach ball.

5.Boating- Because Bear Lake straddles the Utah / Idaho state boundary line, there is over 160 square miles of turquoise-blue water. The lake is so large; many feel they have it all to themselves. With such a large lake comes a draw to its water sports. There are seven boat ramps located around the lake, which makes launching your boat a breeze. Bear Lake also has 305 boat slips and a 5-lane boat ramp. If you just want to tour the lake, there are guided pontoon boat tours conducted from the Bear Lake Marina.

6. Water-Skiing - How about water-skiing. Water-skiing is a favorite sport as the lake is so large and folks don't have to worry about large wakes from other boats pushing them over.

7. Jet Skiing - If you want to explore the lake without taking out a large boat, you can enjoy the fun of a jet ski. Jet skis and wave runners are popular water fun on the lake and can be rented at locations in Garden City, Utah and Paris, Idaho.

8. Camping and Picnicking - Around Bear Lake, there are over 800 camping and picnic facilities. Some of these picnic areas are private, others are owned by the Bear Lake State Parks of Idaho and Utah, and the Cache and Caribou National Forests. Over 500 of these campgrounds around Bear Lake offer full hook-up sites and tent sites (many also have electricity, water and even showers). In addition, there are over 300 additional campsites located in the many scenic canyons that empty into the Bear Lake valley. Picnic areas are found almost everywhere you look.

9. Hiking - Walks around the lake to full hikes in the woods is enjoyable at Bear Lake due to the moderate temperatures. Fall months are the most scenic with the brightly colored leaves and the tranquility of the lake.

10. Hunting - Hunting in the Bear Lake valley was enjoyed by early pioneers as it is by the modern hunter. With the Rocky Mountain Elk, Mule Deer and the unique Shiras Moose, hunters come from miles around to enjoy Bear Lakes offerings.


While these ideas are just the top ten, there are also many other enjoyable things to do at Bear Lake, depending on your preferences and budget.Plan your next vacation surrounded by mountains. The perfect location for family reunions, corporate retreats, or any other gatherings whether they are large or small. For premier bear lake vacations that offer lakefront lodging in Bear Lake Utah-Idaho visit www.bearlakestay.com.

Source: 

by: travisblackstone

There's no doubt that Hong Kong generally is one of the most impressive destinations to visit, either because of work or perhaps a family getaway. Travelers on business will regularly explain how it really is one of their favorite places to travel and to work in. Especially since the opening of Hong Kong Disneyland the city has been number one on the list of destinations for households to go see and stay for a couple of weeks. From Causeway Bay, Mid Levels, Stanley Markets and the other Islands such as Lamma and Lantau, HK has some thing for everybody.

When traveling to any region it is vital that you check out the type, fee, position and quality of the accommodation being offered. In Hong Kong the selection of accommodation is almost limitless and features inexpensive hostels up to 5 star internationally-recognised hotel rooms. A thing that more and more individuals are turning to, however, is serviced "self-catering" residences and holiday rentals. The standard, versatility and absolute comfort of many Hong Kong serviced apartments vastly outweigh staying in a hotel.

For business people a serviced apartment provides them an alternative choice to staying in a more impersonal environment. rental apartments are generally decorated in a more comfortable manner, and may be more relaxing to come home to following a lengthy, strenuous working day. A self-catering property may also have a kitchen area - a luxury not normally seen in standard hotel rooms. This offers the businessman with more possibilities about what time and what type of food to eat.

The positioning of the majority of rentals in Hong Kong can also normally a huge advantage, as they are commonly located centrally and right near convenience stores and also the subway system. An additional element in staying in a self catering apartment over a typical hotel is that individuals can normally choose to stay for a longer length of time than at a hotel. Many individuals can feel uneasy remaining in a hotel for any amount of time (such as, two or three weeks) since the rooms are generally tiny.

For individuals on vacation, and particularly people in families, serviced apartments in Hong Kong might be a great alternative. Most serviced apartments are less costly to stay at then hotels, providing a more cost effective solution. They can also be bigger than just about any rooms in hotels, and there is a variety of serviced apartments that offer bedrooms for the biggest household. As we mentioned above, rental apartments all feature a kitchen, and for a household on a break this can be very useful. Especially young children frequently will not want to eat out, and it's consequently simpler to feed them in the convenience of their own individual apartment. This can often happen, needless to say, with newborns.

In general short stay serviced apartments may offer you a range of added benefits that hotels cannot, and customarily for a more affordable price each night. If you are considering a bit more "authentic" stay, booking a bigger residence rather than a hotel room then this is probably you should look into. As a person traveling for business you can actually make use of the serviced apartment as an effective base for your work, meeting business contacts and doing business. For a family unit, pick the choice that will give you a number of bed rooms from which to choose. So for anyone who is visiting Hong Kong soon, consider booking a rental apartment!


------

Travis Blackstone works as a experienced article author who has done a great deal of travel and leisure writing in the past. He has figured out quite a few tips and techniques to find the very best places to stay. Every time he visits Hong Kong, he uses serviced apartments rather than hotel accommodations and he uses http://www.myhkhome.com/ to find the best deals.


Source: 

Even though it is in an isolated part in the island of Palawan, Puerto Pricesa is still one of the greatest places in the Philippines. It is well known destination by foreigners as well as the indigenous people of the Philippines.

Puerto Princesa is the capital of Palawan. It was known before as the city of forest because despite the city’s expansion with new building popping up and other modern structures, the government was still able to preserve its natural beauty.

The city has various natural wonders which have made it striking among locals and foreign tourists. Almost all of the activities that are famous here are eco friendly activities, they include jungle trekking on the famous monkey trail, scuba diving, hiking, snorkeling, cruising, among others.

 If you are a first visitor, it is recommended to first tour the Subterranean River National Park as will it give you a good impression of the entire place due to its incredible uniqueness and natural beauty. Not forgetting the underground river which was named by UNESCO as one of the Heritage sites.

Be sure to visit the Honda Bay Islands for some other breathtaking activities, you can decide to simply do some island hoping and see Nature without having to take a long day trip. Enjoy swimming and diving in clear waters and have a picnic on the deserted sandbar all on your own.

Gran Canaria is a popular place for holidays. Although the coastline is rugged and rough and sandy beaches are rare, it still has a beautiful coaseline. Its easy to name the top 10 beaches in Gran Canaria as it is a popular area for windsurfing and has some amazing coves with more character and style than many holiday spots.

Pozo Izquierdo is a sheltered beach, which is great for surfing especially when the southwest offshore winds are prevalent. This beach is host to the annual Grand Slam windsurfing where almost fifty of the world's best windsurfers battle it out for the title.

Melonares is a coarse sandy beach with an extremely stony shoreline. It is down a steep incline with the coastal path up above and has a modern shopping centre behind. It is a good choice for the family as it is a relatively quiet area although the locals barbeque there with their families on Sundays.

Maspalomas beach is lively and has a good selection of shops and boutiques nearby, as well as loads of activities. It is one of the cleanest beaches in Gran Canaria and naturists generally congregate in the more secluded sand dunes.

Playa del Inglés translates into "beach of the English" and is popular with the 18's to 30's and the gay population. The beach is clean and lively with plenty of water sports and beach bars, but it can become overcrowded.

Playa de Amadores is close to the man made beach at Puerto Rico, which has a marina and pedestrianised promenade. It has plenty of water sports and boat excursions from the close by lido. This beach is usually quite busy so it is not really suitalbe for families.

Nearby is Playa de Amadores. It is another sandy man made beach over half a mile long with crystal clear waters. It has a good selection of bars and restaurants although listening to radios or playing ball games is not allowed, but the conditions are excellent for young children.

Puerto Mogan beach is small compared to most of the others on Gran Canaria, but it is safe and sheltered from the wind and is downhill from most holiday accommodation. The gently shelving sands make this an ideal place for families and the Aqualand water park with wave pool is close by.

Nearby is Playa Taurito, which is perfect for water sports especially windsurfing, snorkelling, scuba diving, jet skiing and sailing and its white sands and still blue waters make it clean and safe for families.

Playa de Las Canteras has a vast expanse of golden sands and is suitable for surfing. It is a beautiful atmospheric city beach lined with cafes and bars and is greatly favoured by the locals.

Playa Los Secos is made up of golden volcanic sand and gravel and is available to naturists. The sea is calm and suited for swimming and boating enthusiasts.



---

Check out all the latest deals & offers on Majorca holidays visit http://www.directline-holidays.co.uk for all the best deals at unbeatable prices.

Source: