Guide to New York

Wedged between the mainland and the bulk of Moreton Bays more famous North Stradbroke Island are many smaller islands dotted across the bay. Moreton Bay Marine Park protects its special inhabitants such as dugong, dolphins and passing whales. These Island delights are so close to Brisbane, some residents commute to the city daily.

Coochie Mudlo Island has red cliffs and beautiful sandy beaches. With its village feel and calm waters it is a perfect swimming and boating area for the family. While dining at Matthew Flinders Caf you can appreciate the bay views from any table. If you are visiting in July you will also enjoy a re-enactment festival of Matthew Flinders landing on the island 200 years ago. You can catch passenger ferries and barge services from Victoria Point.

With a population of over 3000, and growing, Russell Island is the largest of the Moreton bay Islands. It is the popular place for a weekend getaway and retired living. The island has shops, a supermarket, cafe, a hotel, and homes to rent for your holiday. the smallest of the islands is Lamb Island, although this is a small island, 2km by 1km, it has the biggest view. Other islands include Macleay Island, population 2500, Kangarra Island, smallest of the inhabited islands. Kangarra Island is a quiet spot without shops so when visiting be sure to bring your picnic.

Historically, St Helena Island is the most interesting. The island was once hunting grounds for local tribes. In 1828, Napoleon Bonaparte was sent to St. Helena after becoming troublesome for the jail at Dunwich, on the North Stradbroke Island.

Forty years later, overcrowding in mainland prisons prompted the government to turn St Helena Island into a penal settlement and after clearing rain forest for timber and to prevent escapes, gardens were planted and houses built from coal blocks and clay. In some respects it was the model system; prisoners were taught a trade and were even paid for their labor and there were only three escapes in 65 years - This may have been because of an ever present large quantity of sharks whose presence were actively encouraged by the wardens !! The last inmate left in 1933.It is possible to tour the island for the day or for a night-tour and these days you will find the stone houses, the Deputy Superintendents house, now a museum and lots of photographs from the prison era.

Known as the "gateway of Africa", Tangier is believed to be the most dynamic city in Morocco. This mythical city is located 60km from Gibraltar and 14km from Spain. Its strong international mix of European, Moroccan and African culture makes the city a perfect destination to visit. With its beaches, museums and gardens, it is a great place for a getaway.

If you are planning to have your vacation in Tangier, you may want to stay to its unique guesthouses known as riad. A riad may be a traditional Moroccan house or a palace with indoor garden. Staying in a riad enables you to feel and experience its dynamic Moroccan culture.

Riad Dar Sultan. It is located near the beach and the center of Kasbah district in Tangier. It was once the house of a late Sultan who lived in Dar El Makhzen Palace. This palace is now converted into a museum. Riad Dar Sultan is a 300 year old riad equipped with splendid ornaments of ancient objects and a spectacular view of the sea and the old Kasbah district. The riad has its lobby, fireplaces and library. All the 6 rooms and suites are comfortably spacious designed with the local Moroccan traditions.

If you want to relax and wanted a quiet, intimate place, stay at the "sanctuary of peace and tranquility" - the Riad Dar Jameel. This riad allows its guest the peacefulness and mysteriousness of the city. One can experience the twist of a rich history and the beauty of the present. Its decors are greatly influenced by Moroccan and European cultures with stucco ceilings, traditional couch and a bed with baldachin in each room and suites.

Riad Tanja. Riad Tanja is the first and therefore the oldest guest house in Tangier. This riad offers a high quality and luxurious accommodation. Rian Tanja is purely Moroccan designed with elegant, old pieces of furniture and ornaments, giving its guest the comfort and sleekness of a Tangier riad. It has 6 exquisite, spacious and well furnished double suites. Its terrace has lavishing, expensive flora overhanging the remarkable view of the bay.

Riad Dar Nour, known to its unique beauty has 7 cozy rooms and suites. Each room has its own shower room, air conditioning and heating. Meaning the "house of lights", the riad is further adorned by its collection of carpets, old ceramics and other ornaments from the 15 year period of the Arabs in Tangier. The guesthouse has also its own library with books from various parts of the world.

Riad Dar Nilam is an exquisite place with magnificent works of art which are expressed in every little detail. It is greatly influenced by both the African culture and the east of the Orient. One can appreciate the Riad Dar Nilam's smooth architecture and the awe-inspiring of its garden. There are uniquely polished rooms and suites equipped with own shower room, air conditioning, Internet access, mini bar and satellite TV. If you love to read, you may want to spend time with the riad's reading place and fireplace while admiring the great view of the city. Riad Dar Nilam is also equipped with several places where you can soothe your nerves and unwind in its massage rooms, swimming pools and hamman.

The Gold Coast is really the region with the mega theme parks, but there are some great parks right in the Sunshine Coast that are a bit more educational and artsy and can make for great fun. These are the type of parks that can keep you entertained all day long, without the super-sized rides that some love, but others hate.

Here are some of the Sunshine Coast parks, that will be worth visiting while on your holiday.

Castle at Bli Bli allows you to partake in all its ancient medieval dwelling, equipped with its very own torture chamber, medieval armor and dancing dolls from all different regions of the world. Come and explore the dungeon and check out the ancient displays of fairy stories loaded with artifacts. Be sure to make your way up into the towers of this amazing structure, for some of the most incredible views of the countryside and the cane fields below. A day chocked full of fun, activities and history, the Sunshine Castle at Bli Bli is a true adventure.

Aussie World is an incredible free park is a popular tourist attraction and home to some of the best dining and shopping Aussie style. There is even a neat Pub based on a comic book that is filled with lots of abstract goodies that makes it well worth a look around, it is the Ettamogah Pub. Fun for the whole family be sure to check out Aussie World on your next trip to the Outback.

If you are interested in underwater life, Underwater World Mooloolaba is the place to visit. This is an interactive underwater adventure where guest travel through underwater glass tunnels and observe some of the greatest water creatures of all times. You have the chance to see animals such as crocodiles, sharks, stingrays, whales, migratory whales and more, all in their natural habitat. This is the best way to get underwater with these animals without having to spend large amounts of money on scuba diving or snorkeling.

When you are planning your trip to the Tropical North Queensland region of Australia you will want to be sure and pack a pair of binoculars and a camera. This Australian region is the perfect place to observe bird life in their natural habitat.

This region in Australia is know to have some of the best bird watching opportunities found anywhere. Whether you are staying in Daintree, Highlands or Cairns you will find that many of the accommodations have room balconies that overlook the rainforest. This allows for some of the greatest bird watching opportunities.

The Tropical North Queensland region is filled with many lakes, parks and beaches in addition to the rainforests making the entire region a haven for various species of birds and the year round moderate climate makes this region the perfect habitat for the birds all year long.

Some birds are more easily spotted during certain times of the year. The Channel Billed Cuckoo, Paradise Kingfisher and the Koel can be found easiest between October and April. This is also breeding season for birds which will give you the opportunity to see newborns hatching and mothers taking care of their young.

There is more than bird watching available for you during your Tropical North Queensland trip. From bird watching to under water adventure you are sure to have one of the greatest vacation experiences in your life.

Although the Breeders' Cup is nipping at its heels, without a doubt the Kentucky Derby is the biggest horse race of the year in the United States. This is a race that attracts many fans from the general public that typically don't follow horse racing. A thorough understanding of horse racing, and which horses will win and why is a complex discipline that requires extensive specialized knowledge.

While understanding and predicting horse races is a very complex discipline, here are some basics that can help the amateur understand the Kentucky Derby. Back during the seventies, it was a race dominated by the favorite including three great Triple Crown winners"Secretariat, Seattle Slew and Affirmed"and a great horse that came close, Spectacular Bid. Since Spectacular Bid won the Derby in 1979, however, you can count the favorites who've won the race on one hand with fingers left over. If I was a serious horseplayer, I might not advise you to do this but since I'm just worried about predicting the outcome of this one race Im going to suggest that you forget about the favorite altogether. Not only will you not be flying in the face of recent history, but also it allows you to concentrate on the horses offering greater value.

So why has the favorite done so poorly in recent years? One theory suggests that it is a by-product of the hype surrounding the race. Novice horse fans back the favorite, making it more of a popularity contest than anything else. The reality is that the horse with the most hype is not always the best horse.

Another important component of Kentucky derby success is the post position of the horses. The innermost positions (1 through 5) have produced over 40% of all Derby winners, while the outer post positions (11 through 20) have had only 13% winners. Note that in some years there might not be that many horses in the race, which would help partially explain the poor performance of the outer start positions. Still, for the purposes of understanding a single race eliminating all of the less favorable start positions is a good idea.

A horse's lineage and breeding is also an important factor in the race. While this may be the most complex and demanding area of horse racing, there is a simple rule of thumb that can help a novice for this race. Most high level race horses are born in Kentucky. Well over 80% of Derby winners have also been born in the Bluegrass State. So just eliminate all horses that weren't born in Kentucky. Then consider a horse's gender and eliminate any horse that isn't an intact male (geldings and fillies). Over 90% of all Derby winners have been intact males, though a gelding did win the race in 2003 (Funny Cide). For the horse racing novice, however,this is another good way to pare down the field.

Don't forget to consider dosage index numbers. These are a complex mathematical formula that measures a horse's breeding lineage plus his past performance. You want to look for horses with a dosage index of 4.00 or less--over half of Derby winners have met this criteria since dosage numbers came into common usage in the mid 1980's.

If you want to learn about horse racing in more depth, there are countless books available to introduce you to the subject. For a recreational fan who just wants to have a better understanding of the Kentucky Derby, these rules can help.

Antarctica serves up a wealth of scenes and sights. It is a truly unique place with aspects that would never be seen in any other part of the world. Read more about this continent here to learn why you should pencil in a trip to the place soon. The place is known for the unrivaled beauty it offers.

Antarctica vacationers usually do not have a clue about what to look forward to on the cruise they booked. Antarctica is a kind of secret location that remains mostly undisturbed. Fill your days with activities that include walks and dives or camping or other interesting stuff.

Camping during your Antarctic travel can be a unique once in a lifetime experience. Some cruises to the Antarctic let you experience the outdoors for one night. All equipment is supplied. All of your supplies will ensure that you are safe and comfortable. Many say that there is no better way to deepen your appreciation for the beautiful world of Antarctica.

Antarctica travel comes with a host of opportunities to kayak. Wildlife along with other scenery can be viewed at close range while traveling the clear waters. Penguins and seals plus whales asleep dot the landscape. You might need time to take it all in once you come face to face with the huge icebergs. Riding a kayak through the open waters and passing the back country is a great experience.

The Antarctic Circle is the venue for scuba diving. It holds marine life you cannot find elsewhere. It is nothing short of beautiful to view from underwater the sun shining on the ice. You will see animal such as penguins crabs seals and a wide variety of unique Antarctic fishes. You can consider yourself very lucky to have this experience. Not many can say they have explored Antarctica underwater even the skilled divers.

Rock and mountain climbers can have an experience of a lifetime. Antarctic tours list this as a top activity people ask for. The area houses numerous unclaimed regions. You can also choose to follow in the footsteps of famous Antarctic explorers.

Learn from lectures and guided walks provided. This arms you with additional knowledge about Antarctica. Great cruises to Antarctica let you view as much of the landscape and wildlife as possible. They will likewise tour you in areas steeped in history. You are bound to fall in love with Antarctica in a second.

Many see Antarctica as being nothing but a barren and freezing place. It is a place that has earned a reputation for being not fit for human life and is simply a region for testing the bravery of men. The facts do not support these claims. Beauty surrounds the whole of Antarctica. Antarctica is one place that will wow you with its impressive sights and fun adventure activities. There are no second thoughts about taking Antarctica tours because you are bound to enjoy them immensely.

Ronky The Monster Of Lake Ronkonkoma New York

It was a Sunday in Summer of 2009 went I first saw Ronky with my own eyes. I had heard stories of Ronky here and there, They had come to me in Whispers really.The History of Ronky has been a well kept secret for Hundreds maybe Thousands of years. I had spent weeks watching this lake in Lake Ronkonkoma on Long Island in New York State. This day I was driving around going past one of the many Parks and Beaches around the lake. While I was going North on Lake Shore Road I saw something in the water out of the corner of my eye, but after weeks of watching this lake I thought it was just someone out on another blow up raft and didn't really think much of it !

As I was passing the Dinning Hall "Windows on the Lake" there is an opening where Guests can get a good look at the lake. I looked over and I saw what I had though to be a raft a few seconds before was the creature. I though to myself this could just be another hoax! After years of searches and hunts leading to nothing but dead ends I was not going to get my hopes up to fast. I slowed down and watched as the Creature swam around the lake enjoying itself! I was a little scared but at the same time I could not stop myself from smiling thinking this was really it!

I drove around the lake following along with "Ronky" at some point I pulled into a parking lot and walked onto one of the beaches. I slowly got my Camera out fearing as soon as I went to take the picture the creature would disappear. I snapped a shot, checked it in the review mode of the Camera and I could not believe I had captured a perfect shot of the Creature that no one could dispute the authenticity of ! When I looked back at the Lake Ronky was gone.

Over the next few days I carefully started asking the locals in the area if they had ever seen something weird in the Lake? It seems that to everyone in Lake Ronkonkoma Ronky is well known. He is not a myth or urban legend here. He is just another Member of the Village! I have been told there are two Differences between Nessie in Scotland's Loch ness and Ronky in New York's Lake Ronkonkoma. One Ronky is real and Two Ronky is protected by the Locals and his name is not defiled for tourist money.

There are many stories of Ronky that go back Hundreds of years. The one I found most interesting was a story that happened about 15 years ago. It seems there was an expedition sent to look into and map the depths and some underwater streams under Lake Ronkonkoma. This expedition never happened. The Official Story given was the expedition ran out of Money and was going to come back when they got more funds. I was told by an old time resident that wishes her Identity to remain a secret that the real story is a group called the "Keepers of the Lake" told the expiation in no uncertain terms it would be in their best interested for them to leave and not come back!!!

The people of Lake Ronkonkoma have kept this Monster Ronky loved and Protected for many years! I respect and sympathize with them,but I have spent my adult life and most of my families fortune searching for a creature like Ronky.This is my job and I must share this with the world. I have received many threats not to print this story! I have posted it here to go out to these newsgroups if I do not reset the settings at least once a week. If you are reading this there is a good chance something has happen to me. Please do not let what I have spent my life hunting for go unheard of ! Ronky is there in that Lake!

By Lawrence Jamison http://www.lakeronkonkomacivic.org

My story: I had a challenge. I had to move to Mexico for my health and retire. Sure, I spoke English, a few words of French from high school, about 12 words of Spanish which might wind me up in fight or worse in a Mexxican jail, yeah - mostly curse words.I was in trouble and when I arrived in Mexico, I needed help.

Luckily, I met Reuben Varela, a well known Restauranteur at the Balneario Hot Springs in San Juan Cosala, Jalisco, Mexico and Gerardo Tolentino, an English teacher who was teaching 1st year English.

Reuben pushed me to find ways of studying and practicing Spanish, and Gerardo help me create the Gringo Guide. I was the gringo -- and I definitely had to have a guide to get me through the experience of living here in Mexico.

We talked to them and asked them what they needed, and we listened to what they asked of the waiters, restaurant owners, etc. Later, then Gerardo accompanied me to doctors and we went to travel through Mexico.

We talked to them and asked them what they needed, and we listened to what they asked of the waiters, restaurant owners, etc. Later, then Gerardo accompanied me to doctors and we went to travel through Mexico.

Now, you can speak like native in Spanish speaking countries/Mexico. It's that easy.

Now, everyone I know who visits Mexico, Spanish or anywhere else in Latin America - can speak like a expat that lives in Mexico. It's that easy. The audios cover every unique sound of Spanish speech. The printed book will fit in your shirt pocket for use whenever you want.

The electronic pdf will fit on pocket devices to help you communicate on the spot with electronic support. So, when someone says: Que quieres tomar?

You'll immediately know the answer -- una marguarita, una coca, una limonada, un modelo negro (beer), or whatever you want, por favor! Fulfill all your needs to communicate in Spanish for Spain, Mexico or Latin America?

The book comes with a full guide, by sections to learn, use, and get answers to all your questions. It's guaranteed to make your vacation -- fantastic.

Betting on sports 'futures' is an enjoyable and potentially profitable way to wager, but there are several potential risks that can lead to losses. Here's a rundown of things to avoid:

You gotta shop around: More specifically, you have to 'shop points' just as you would with a straight bet. This is crucial in all forms of sports betting but particularly key with futures wagers. There are often greater variances in the prices from book to book on future plays than any other type of wagering proposition. The reason for this is simple--most books are less concern with what the 'other guys' are doing as they are with keeping their own position 'in balance'. All in all, the sports betting marketplace just doesn't react as quickly to changing futures prices as it does to individual game lines.

Don't try to pick the winner in a competitive marketplace: This may sound sort of counter intuitive since the general idea of betting on futures is to determine the actual winner but it's really not. Like everything else, its essential to always be mindful of the value you're getting. In a futures market with several legitimate contenders at the top the price offered is seldom high enough to properly compensate for the risk you're assuming. Here's an example: in a hypothetical NCAA hoops tournament Duke is +200 to win the national championship. They've certainly got a shot, but at a payback of only 2/1 its hard to justify a wager at this point with the potential for so many interceding events that can make a championship more problematic. Such events as injuries, a tough tournament draw or even just going into a slump at the wrong time can happen to any team but when you bet a higher priced team--a 'dark horse mid major at 15/1 for example--you're getting "compensation" for assuming the "risks" of betting on a proposition with so many unknown variables.

In more theoretical terms, the 'true odds' of a Duke or similar top team winning the tournament are almost always higher than the price offered. Think of it this way--say we're betting Duke to win the national title at 2/1. This means that the Blue Devils would have to win more than 33% of the time to break even. So lets say, for the sake of argument, that we could play the tournament over 100 times. Would Duke come out on top more than 33 of these times? If not, they represent a poor value. Let's say that they win 30 of 100 times. This means that any price under +333 or thereabouts is a poor wagering value.

Note that the more competitive the market, the more difficult it is to find good value on a favorite. In a smaller field, or in a field with one dominant competitor it can be easier. For example, say the UFC were to have a tournament involving heavyweight champion Brock Lesnar and three male figure skaters. Even if Lesnar was slightly injured, or not at the top of his game he'd essentially have a 100% chance of beating the smaller, effeminate men who are untrained to fight. If a book installed Lesnar as a -1000 favorite in this spot, it could still be considered a good value. It's never easy to risk a lot to win a little, but from strictly a mathematical standpoint it makes sense.

Don't try to make a huge profit with little risk: Sports betting provides few opportunities to make a 'big killing'. It may happen occasionally, but even the big payouts when it occurs doesn't make chasing big longshots a good value. If you're serious about sports betting it is crucial to maintain your focus on the underlying numbers and look for value at all times. If you want to take a longshot at a huge jackpot, play the lottery but don't try to do it at a sportsbook.

Wagering value is just as important at the bottom of the barrel as it is at the top. Just because you're getting a huge potential payback on a big dog doesn't make it a good value. Make sure that the payback you're getting presents an overlay situation--even on a huge underdog.

Don't waste your money on ridiculous prop bets: Occasionally sports books offer ridiculous bets to get press or to be funny. For example, a book once offered odds on Demi Moore, Ashton Kutcher and Bruce Willis all hopping into bed together and releasing a video tape of the proceedings. You'd no doubt get a huge payback were this to happen, but the 'true odds' of such an event transpiring far exceeded even a big potential payback.

Traveling at Christmas time can be a test of nerve, skill and patience. Especially for those of us that have to travel any real distance to where we are spending the holidays. Any more than a hundred miles can complicate things and make everything a little more difficult. When traveling by automobile, there are a few things that you can do to make things easier for yourself.

First off, if you can use a rental car, it saves so much of the wear and tear on your own car. Also, if you live close enough, or plan to make several stops, driving can be easier than flying everywhere. If you must take your own car, be sure to have the car serviced before any long trips. Checking the tires and oil and having a general tune up can make a big difference on how well and reliable the vehicle is. It also helps to have properly aligned and inflated tires. It can save you money on gas over the course of the trip.

The great thing about utilizing a vehicle for your travel plans is that you can take as much with you as you like. There is no limit on the amount of luggage that you can take, as long as you can fit it all in the vehicle. You also can bring games, books, movies, or other items that will keep your family entertained and busy, both during the travel and while at your destination.

Then there is always the benefit of being able to throw a cooler full of food and drinks for the trip. This will not only save you from having to search for a place to grab food, whiling driving, but will also save the high cost of fast food and restaurants.

Now, there are some benefits to flying and they are pretty apparent. If the trip is a long distance, you could spend the entire holiday driving to get there and back. Even with the waits and delays in the airport, it is generally quicker for long trips. There is also a convenience factor. Traveling by air makes you a thriftier packer and makes you only take what you need to get you by. This is especially true these days since most airlines are now charging for luggage and more for each piece. Traveling lighter can make the whole trip a little bit easier. There is no use lugging all that extra stuff through all those terminals if you don't have to.

If you are looking for a break away from it all during this holiday season then perhaps you should consider a holiday with a difference. Monterey hotels have a lot to offer and you will find that there is a great lot of variety for you to choose from. You will find that there is going to be enough choice for you to have an excellent time.

Monterey really has a lot going for it when you consider the great variety of accommodation that is on offer to the visitor. For those who want to have the most luxurious place possible, they will find that there is a great choice here. If you are perhaps not as fortunate as this and have to make sure that you watch what you spend then you will be thrilled to hear that there are also loads of good budget places open for you to choose from. The world is really your oyster in this place.

If you want to make sure that you are having a stay where you are treated like a good friend, then you should try a country lodge. There are a good few in Monterey and you will find that given the fact that this is a smaller type of establishment you are likely to find that the owners will be very much involved in the operations of the facility. So this means that you can be assured of a good quality service and there are many instances in which guests actually end up becoming friends with the owners. Also be sure to have a look around for offers as there are great promotions available at the moment.

There are also loads of inns that about and this means that you will find a cosy place to stay. They typically include bed and breakfast although there are some as well that would give you a rate with dinner included. It does pay to look around before you make your decision as there are some great offers on at the moment in the run up to the holiday season.

While you might want to enjoy the effect of a wintery wonderland for Christmas, don't be too quick to discount the fun of having the holidays in California. This could be your chance to really get away from it all and just enjoy a very relaxing time with your family.

If you are looking for something very special as you perhaps take the one that you love away for a bit of good quality time together then Monterey can also be a great place for you. It will mean that you can show your partner how special they are to you and this would be the ultimate setting for a proposal if you are that stage of your relationship.

You will find that the majority of places to stay really want you to take advantage of the beautiful surroundings in which you find yourself. You can look forward to great pools, wonderful views and the feeling that you have found paradise on earth.

No matter what sort of person you are, no matter how you want to spend your holiday there are any number of Monterey hotels that will meet your needs. Take this as the opportunity to get away from it all and place yourself perfectly for the start of the new year.

The environmental trend is stealing headlines all over the world. People are finally realizing the damage that is being done to the environment and are starting to change the way things are done at home and the business world. The travel industry is no different and a positive environmental trend is sweeping through the hotel industry as a whole including airport hotels.

Not so long ago using renewable energy and having a recycling program were not profitable things to do. Because of this Corporate America was not willing to jump in with both feet. While there were some companies that did this anyway (and they should be applauded), others were waiting to see where the environmental trend would lead before they started to make changes.

The travel industry, specifically the hotel niche of it, was infamous for literally pouring money down the drain. There was literally tons of unnecessary laundry being done every day that was not only costing the hotel owners a lot of money, but was using unnecessary energy and water as well. Over the last few years, this whole process has changed for the better.

When a guest checks into their room today, they are going to see something that is not even close to what it was as little as 10 years ago. Hotels will now usually have signs up that suggests to guests to keep their towels for an extra day or to keep the sheets on instead of having them changed out every day. It is impossible to understand the impact that this immediately has on energy and water consumption.

Energy savings is always as hot topic and one that was always assumed to be wasted in hotels. Lights were left on all the time and bulbs were bright and energy wasting. Today, hotels rarely have unused rooms lit up and have gone the way of energy efficient lighting to try and cut down on their bills. This all adds up to enormous amounts of energy that is now being saved instead of wasted.

While most neighborhoods started recycling years ago, not all hotels were with the program. There was a time when the back of a hotel looked more like a trash dump than anything else. Unless you have worked in one, it is hard to imagine the amount of waste that is generated each and every day. Drive in the back of the hotel today and it is an organized area that has all of their trash separated for recycling.

Hotels have always had brightly lit parking lots and extra signage up to let people know that they are open for business. While this is understandable, it has also been excessive. Solar trees are popping up all over the place to replace standard parking lot lighting and more and more hotels are making use of perimeter solar lighting to light pool areas and such that used to burn standard bulbs.

When the corporate world steps up and makes a statement that it is time to start saving energy, people tend to take notice. The trickledown effect is enormous as ideas get put into the heads of guests and staff alike. It is great to finally see the travel industry have and promote a healthier environmental trend.

Tourism in the world is indeed a sector which is remarkably improving. Citizens of differing nationalities start to think outside the box, and they have found out that there is more to see internationally. This has resulted to a positive growth in the hotel and restaurant businesses the world over.

Based on the information of the United Nations - World Tourism Organization in 2008, the People's Republic of China is the fourth most-visited country in the world, with a registered 53 million tourists. Wow! That is definitely a lot, and there is in fact little shock to that since this nation has many famous wonders known globally, be it natural or man-made.

As China's capital, Beijing is one of the major gateways of the country. This translates to increased occupancy rates in Beijing hotels, more shoppers in malls and diners in fine restaurants, eventually leading to increased tourist receipts vital in pump-priming their economy.

One of the most notable of these Chinese landmarks is the Great Wall of China. Recently, it was voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This structure is 8,851.8 kilometers long, stretching from the Northeastern shores of the seaside town of Shanhaiguan to the cold and mountainous Gansu Province in the Northwest.

As a series of stone and earthen fortifications, the Great Wall was constantly built, rebuilt and maintained between the 5th and 16th centuries to shelter the nation from invading Mongolians and other tribes. It also helped sustain the country's economic and cultural progress, safeguarded the Silk Route and secured the spread of information and transportation. China's foremost emperor, Qin Shi Huang, ordered the construction of the wall and the succeeding rulers of the Ming dynasty sustained and extended the wall to where it is today.

The Great Wall is not just a wall. Throughout its expanse, one could see defensive structures such as forts, passes and beacon towers which were once used to house soldiers, store grain and weapons and transmit military information.

Although the Great Wall lasts more than a lifetime and can be treasured throughout the year, the best time to have ones' vacation to the place is during spring and autumn, primarily to avoid multitudes of people. In spring, one could see the flowers abloom with pastel colors and the lush greenery, creating an atmosphere of freshness. In the winter, when it is glacial, the surrounding terrains and the wall itself are blanketed with snow, making it the perfect time for one to see the entirety of the wall. From Beijing, a 65-minute bus drive will get you to Badaling, which is the most accessible site. Other sites are Mutianyu and Jinshanling. The itineraries of Beijing hotels make it sure that the tourists will not find it difficult to travel to the place.

The Great Wall of China is one of mankind's greatest achievements. Therefore, for visitors to completely enjoy their tours, they should dress appropriately for the season, bring their handy cameras, and of course, have an open mind and a ready smile. Wherever they stay, be it in Beijing hotels or inns and accommodations from other places, a visit to this place is a must - and who knows, maybe it is in here that one will find what he's looking for.

When you're traveling through Northern California, travel no further than Tiburon. This lovely coastal city is rich in natural abundance and history. Though Miwok Indians had called the area home for thousands of years, it was not until 1775 that the city got its name. Tiburon, which means "shark" in Spanish, was named by Lt. Juan Manuel de Ayala when he anchored in the peninsula. In spite of its menacing name, the area is one of the most gorgeous places in the world.

Did you book a room? If you are planning to stay in any of the local hotels, you'll soon find out they take "customer service" to new heights. Guests are privy to five-star rooms, a huge business center, daily newspapers, and free wireless Internet. Amenities like fresh fruit and cookies are not uncommon. The hotel interiors are warm and cozy, while the climate is perfect for almost any activity. Enjoy the striking sun decks and the beautiful ground level pool as well. There are also great poolside private cabanas where you can enjoy a midday snack -- or maybe even a nap.

Once you are revived, you can book a one-hour cruise around the magnificent San Francisco Bay. This fun trip takes you under the Golden Gate Bridge by way of Sausalito, past Angel Island, and around legendary Alcatraz Island. You can watch dolphins, sea lions, and even sharks and whales while on board. If you are looking for a bit more excitement, you can disembark at Pier 39 in San Francisco and take in the grand old city.

When you are done taking in the waves or sightseeing in San Francisco, you can sit down to a fabulous meal anywhere in the area. A local favorite in Tiburon, Three Degrees Restaurant is the newest full service bar and restaurant to open at the Lodge. Designed to be warm and cozy, the restaurant has both indoor and outdoor dining, with a rustic rough-hewn bar and a river rock decor. The food, prepared by Chef Daren Robey, is a delicious fusion of seasonal fair and savory flavor. It is interesting that Three Degrees is the only restaurant in the area that serves no trans fats.

You may notice that one of the renown hotels in the area, The Lodge, offers any amenity you could possibly conceive of. Whether you need a relaxing get-away or you need some excitement, you can find it in Tiburon. The biking and hiking trails, ferry rides to the city, and access to the forests all make the Lodge the place to be when in the lush San Francisco area.

When renting an apartment, there are always many things you have to think about. Location, proximity to work or schools and expenses are all very important. Deciding to take a furnished one can be a great decision. Furnished apartments - advantages are both time and money saving. You do not have to move as much stuff. This can cut down on a lot of stress and problems.

Moving requires a lot of forethought. You have to find a new place, pack all your stuff and then move it in. Worrying about less packing and moving can be a huge relief. Heavy furniture can be a nightmare when you have to move it. Getting it in and out of some rooms is a tremendous problem. You may even need several people to help you move it. If you are already moving, you do not need more to worry about.

A furnished rental can save you a lot of time and problems. You only have to pack your personal items and clothes. Forget worrying about a huge, clumsy dresser and getting it down the steps. Leave that refrigerator right where it is. They will be ready and waiting for the next lessor. Your move will be a lot easier. You save money by not having to purchase large furniture items. You can find an apartment with everything you need.

You can also save money by renting one. The less you have to move, the less it costs for you to do so. Many people manage with just their cars or the rental of a small van. No more trying to figure out how to fit everything in a truck. You can save the money of paying professional movers. This also does away with worrying about theft or a lot of breakage.

Many are intended specifically for the use of people who move often for their work. So if you find yourself having to move frequently, they can save a lot of trouble. You do not have to worry about a long-term lease. Most will rent month to month or for any time period you require. From several weeks to longer stays, you can get one for a great rental rate.

If you are not sure you want to live in any area permanently, these can be a great choice. You can try the area, before making your decision. No need for a long-term commitment you are not sure about.

Maintenance is also no longer your problem. Repairs or replacements fall under the jurisdiction of the property owner. If something wears out, all you have to do is make a phone call. It works just like when the air conditioning goes out in other apartments. Maintenance crews are often kept on hand to help with these situations. This saves you money and time.

There are residences like this available for everyone, whether you want something large or small. They are available to suit any budget, so you can find the one that is right for you. If you have some of your own items, but not everything, you may want to go with a semi-furnished option. That way you know you will have room for them. The furnished apartments - advantages include both time and money savings. So, they are definitely worth considering.

It's not surprising that there has been a growing interest in the countries east of the European Union. Slovakia has really become a tourist destination, and there are a number of cities to visit. One of the most popular cities right now however is the town of Levoca.

Levoca has a relatively small population in that it is below 15,000. It is a historical area, and is almost like something you would see in a picture. It is 350 kilometers from Bratislava, and is the main part of so called the Gothic Route. There are also some national parks nearby, such as Slovak Paradise and High Tatras, which are great for tourists regardless of the time of year.

The town of Levoca itself has only been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since June, 2009 - but visitors soon appreciate that this recognition was well deserved. Secure within the well-preserved town walls - 6 watch towers still remain as well as 3 of the ancient gateways - most of the buildings in the centre of the town still have their original walls dating back to the Middle Ages.

The town's major portal, the Kosice Gate, is directly behind both an ornate Baroque church and an eighteenth century monastery. The town square itself, which is a photographer's dream location, houses the 14th century church of St Jakob, a Town Hall dating back in parts to the 15th century, several other impressively grand buildings and the symbolic and strange 'Cage of Shame'.

Within the church of St Jakob you will see yet another amazing site. It is a Gothic wooden carved alter, which is easily the largest of it's type. The alter was carved by the craftsman Paul.

Another great site to see is the Cage of Shame. It is something that you will not soon forget, and it is a relic from the past-an unpleasant past as it may have been. It is a relic from the times when common criminals were subject to public humiliation.

This is a town that will cause you to lose yourself. It is such a symbol of our past, and it is a part of Slovakian heritage that one will not soon forget. After all, the Slovakian National Anthem was heard first in this town.

Discerning visitors - and those with an eye for genuine value for money - will want to seriously consider the Hotel U Leva when they are looking for accommodation for their stay in Levoca. Not only is it conveniently situated in the town square, directly opposite the Church of St Jakob, but it is also a beautiful building in its own right. A recently and sympathetically restored medieval construction, the Hotel U Leva provides elegant and spacious rooms, many of which have views across the town square. As well as offering stylish, classical charm, however, the hotel also makes sure guests have the modern touches that many consider vital in their hotels. For example, rooms are equipped with satellite televisions with in excess of 200 channels in various languages and high speed internet access. There is a fitness and sauna centre, a pharmacy, souvenir shop, laundry and excellent facilities for disabled guests. The hotel's restaurant is probably the best in town, and serves great breakfasts and has an extensive menu in the evenings. When you add in the friendliness of the staff, many of whom speak excellent English, then you will begin to appreciate why the Hotel U Leva has become so popular.

Levoca is not a tourist 'hot spot' - indeed, for many people that will be part of its undoubted charm. What is certainly is, though, is a delightful treasure trove of Slovakian history, full of genuinely welcoming people. Go there yourself and discover Levoca, the hidden gem of Slovakia.

Brisbane, Australia is the capital city of Queensland, located on the eastern coast of Australia. It is the third largest city in Australia after Sydney and Melbourne. There are a large number of tourists visiting Brisbane all year round due to its pleasant sub tropical climate, plenty of sunshine, relaxed atmosphere and also its excellent nightlife, music, cafes and restaurants.

Planning and booking accommodation and travel arrangements are usually the two primary considerations when planning a holiday. People intending visiting Brisbane for a holiday or requiring extended accommodation should always book well in advance to secure their preferred option. All Brisbane accommodation can now be booked online, as can flights, car hire and Brisbane Tours. Brisbane offers and excellent selection of accommodation choices from the very affordable through to the highest rated hotels and apartments.

Most visitors to Brisbane will have varying requirements from their accommodation, be it dates, level of service and facilities or location. Many visitors will be price sensitive and others may decide purely on the name and reputation. Some travelers to Brisbane may need to be located in the CBD close to attractions, restaurants and cafes and others visitors may prefer the quieter accommodations available on the perimeter of Brisbane. Budget accommodation is also available for those whose needs are basic and chose a clean and safe place to sleep without all the extra bells and whistles associated with the pricier options. Families will also find affordable options with basic facilities but can also access Brisbane accommodations with more comprehensive family configurations.

High end options are suited to those tourists and visitors wanting the best money can buy and include luxury Brisbane hotels of the highest class and quality offering many personalized services. These also have the advantage of being well located with the best of facilities. For the students and backpackers, there are a number of hostel and dedicated backpacker hotels. If these are full then there is alternative option to book a Brisbane motel, which is quite cheap in terms of pricing, and yet offers quality services. There are a number of Brisbane apartments also available for visitors to Brisbane. These offer a family amenities and as such are preferred by visiting families. Corporate visitors may also prefer and opt for such apartments. The final type of accommodation is the Brisbane self contained accommodation. These may be holiday apartments or holidays homes available on rent for different lengths of stay.

Travelers booking their Brisbane accommodation online can pay securely using a credit card and receive email instant confirmation of their bookings. Undoubtedly the best and most convenient way to book your Brisbane accommodation is online using a Brisbane Visitor Information and accommodation website. These Brisbane tourism websites offer up to the minute accommodation availability and the best prices as well as extensive descriptions and images.

Follow the above considerations and you will be ready with your accommodation facilities before you start with your trip to Brisbane, Australia. After all there cannot be a greater start to a perfect holiday than getting yourself the perfect Brisbane holiday accommodation and a good accommodation suited to your needs will make your stay a much more enjoyable one.

If you are going to Monterey, California for the first time, you are in for a treat. You will find that the Monterey Bay area is even more beautiful than any of the pictures you have ever seen. When it comes time to make a hotel reservation, you will find more options than you bargained for. You will find many Monterey hotels to suit your needs.

Before you decide on a hotel to stay in, it is good idea to find out what you want to do in Monterey first. The area is small, but with a little careful planning you will be able to find accommodations that are near the activities and attractions you are most interested in. Monterey offers accommodations in all types of settings, from rural to urban, so there is no need to compromise.

Fremont Street offers some of the lowest priced hotels in the area. There is no need to worry about sacrificing location, because Fremont Street hotels just a mile or so away from downtown. In addition to hotels, you will also find a wide variety of restaurants to choose from along Fremont Street.

Downtown is a great place to stay when you visit Monterey. You are just steps away from the Monterey Bay, where you can enjoy a morning walk and enjoy the fresh ocean air, or relax in the afternoon as the sun sets. Downtown allows you the convenience of being close to some of the best shopping and dining Monterey has to offer. If a luxury or moderately priced hotel will fit into your budget, a downtown hotel might be perfect for you.

Visitors from all over the world flock to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, located along Cannery Row. Cannery Row accommodations allow you to be just steps away from some of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. Moderately priced to high end hotels can be found throughout the Cannery Row area. If you want to stay near Cannery Row, but are on a budget, you can find what you are looking for one block away on Lighthouse Ave.

If a peaceful setting is what you are searching for, hotel in Pacific Grove might suit your fancy. You will find many small motels and hotels at the end of Lighthouse Ave. That will offer you a tranquil setting without breaking the bank.

Luxury is what you will find in a Carmel hotel or inn. If a Carmel hotel is your destination, you will find yourself in the midst of some of the best dining and shopping in the area. Along with all of the creature comforts, you will also be steps away from the charm and beauty of Carmel Beach.

Carmel Valley is the place to go if you want to get away from it all. When other visitors are jacket clad in the fog along the coast, you will be basking in the sun at a Carmel Valley resort. In Carmel Valley, you will have a number of golf and tennis resorts to choose from. You can enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting at one of the many wineries, or take a hike and enjoy the landscape and wildlife.

You cannot go wrong with a Monterey vacation, and you will return home with memories that will last a lifetime. Monterey hotels offer travelers accommodation to match any itinerary or budget.

Just a short drive outside Sydney, the capital of New South Wales, Australia, you'll find the vibrant community of Bondi Beach. Pronounced "Bon-die," with a long I, this beach is a center for surfing and sunbathing all summer long.

Founded back in the middle of the 19th century, as Sydney's urban center began expanding, the unique name of Bondi Beach derives from an Aboriginal word meaning "waves crashing upon rocks."

As a getaway from the urban center of Sydney, Bondi's white sand beaches and alluring coastline are a beautiful option. If you are around during the migratory seasons, you could spot dolphins or even whales off the coast. The rarely seen fairy penguin may even catch your eye.

For visitor orientation, start at the Pavilion Community Center and pick up some helpful information. This town hub also has changing rooms and showers for bathers, several eateries and an amphitheater.

Hitting the beach, stroll along the sandy coast and sunbathe with the bronzed locals, or take a swim in the clear blue waters on the northern side of Bondi Beach. For more challenging waves, surfers can head south, where the water can be perilous for a swim but heaven for a surf session. In the summer months, lifeguard patrols are all over the beach and shark nets are laid out for further protection.

To immerse yourself in local beauty, try one of Bondi's popular nature walks. From the old Pavilion (ca. 1928), hike up to the cliffs of Bronte. You'll encounter some of the oldest wonders of nature along the way in Hawkesbury's sandstone belt, which paleontologists date to 225 million years in the past. Or make your way to Waverley Cemetery after stopping at the old bath houses in Bronte.

For a taste of Bondi's racy beach culture, check out the southern beaches, where local ordinances are ignored by topless sunbathers on a regular basis. In fact, the beach holds the world record for biggest bikini photo shoot of all time.

Popular local events include the 14-kilometer City to Surf Fun Run which takes participants from downtown Sidney to the sandy coastline of Bondi Beach every August. In September you can enjoy the Festival of the Winds, a kite festival which is fun for the whole family.

Along the waterfront is a wide variety of cafes, restaurants and bars to suit any budget. Have a pint in one of the pubs and see why the locals are known for their friendliness.

Bondi Beach has been a popular location for film and television, such as the lifeguard show Bondi Rescue or the fictional Breakers.

At the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Bondi hosted the beach volleyball tournament for all the world to see.

Accommodations are available in all price ranges, from backpacker hostels to upscale hotels, with small hotels and bed-and-breakfasts in between.

Only a thirty minute drive from downtown Sydney, take Oxford street from the capital and follow it as it turns into Enfield Drive and finally Bondi Road. Because parking can be so difficult, locals suggest arriving via public transportation to avoid the hassle. Numerous buses arrive from Sydney everyday.

When you arrive at Manchester airport you will probably see the sign for Manchester airport arrivals but then what?

There is nothing worse than arriving at an airport especially a large airport like Manchester Airport and feeling lost and not sure where to go. Manchester is a large airport and there are flights to Manchester from over two hundred locations around the world. This situation can be easily be solved by doing a little bit of homework before you arrive and prevent any problems for your arrival at Manchester airport. The first thing to check is which terminal your flight is going to arrive into as Manchester airport has three terminals.

If someone is collecting you at the airport they can park in one of Manchester Airports short stay car parks, which are all located next to the terminal buildings and are only a few minutes walk away. This short walk from the terminal building to the short stay car park is all undercover so you will not get wet if it is raining.

If you plan to go into Manchester City centre or another part of England or even north to Scotland by rail then you can catch a train from Manchester airports own rail station. The rail journey into Manchester city centre takes less than twenty minutes and there are frequent trains. You can also pre-book your rail tickets online and check the train times.

You can hire a car at Manchester Airport which is an ideal option if you are planning on visiting the nearby attractions or just for the flexibility of being able to go when and where you want without relying on other transport methods. During busy periods it is possible for the car hire companies to run out of the more popular car types. It is advisable to book in advance and take advantage of some of the online special offers.

Coach services from Manchester airport operate every ten minutes during the day and can take you into the centre of Manchester to connect with another coach for an onward journey to other parts of England or even Scotland. The coach fares are generally cheaper than the train but are subject to traffic delays.

Airport Taxis operate from Manchester Airport on a taxi meter basis for journeys within the Manchester licensed area and on a set fare rate for journeys outside. Taxis can be pre-booked by contacting the taxi operator in advance.

Simple research but very helpful so when you see the sign for Manchester airport arrivals you will know exactly what you are doing and be less stressed than the people who didn't. This same information will also help you get to the airport for your return flight from Manchester.

When you think about cheap flights to orlando, what do you think of first? Which aspects of extremely cheap last minute flights are important, which are essential, and which ones can you take or leave? You be the judge.

Search for cheap flight deals now on the Holidays and Independent Travel website. Searching for inexpensive flights online could prove to be a difficult experience for most people out there because you are going to encounter hundreds of websites that offer discounts on airfare. Many of these websites also offer cheap international ticket rates.

Offers of cheap flights to Johannesburg from any city in the UK, try to cheap flights to South Africa is available in each city. All these companies are providing economic flights to Johannesburg with good facilities on board. Offer ends midnight Thursday November 12, 2009 and it is possible to book flights from Tuesday December 1, 2009 until Sunday February 28, 2010. All holidays, school breaks, major sporting events and selected blackout periods are excluded from this offer.

See how much you can learn about cheap flights to orlando when you take a little time to read a well-researched article? Don't miss out on the rest of this great information.

Airlines like Ryanair, easyJet, FlyNordic and France's own Point Afrique provide regular service to and from Paris and its surrounding airports. Airline tickets, even the online ones, always cost less if bought locally or closer to the destination of your arrival. So if you are holidaying in a country but you need to fly internally several times, it will be cheaper to book local flights online when you arrive instead of doing it at home before leaving. Airlines almost always raise prices on the holidays because so many people need to fly.

Airlines will accept unaccompanied children for travel. Each carrier has differing conditions and ages for unaccompanied minors. Airlines split their on-board classes into sub classes for selling purposes. They then allocate seats into each sub class which is priced differently and can have different terms and conditions too. Airlines sell only a limited number of seats at the lowest fare on each flight. When these have been sold, you may be offered a seat at a higher fare.

Fares include taxes and charges, but there may be conditions such as a compulsory Saturday night stay. Forecast shows you the lowest fares currently offered by airlines on each day within any 30-day period you specify. If you choose Boston and Los Angeles as your airports -- departing from Boston between July 1 and 31 - Forecast charts the lowest fares that are available on each date.

Sometimes it's tough to sort out all the details related to the subject of extremely cheap last minute flights, but I'm positive you'll have no trouble making sense of the information presented above.

If you have plans to travel to Walt Disney World during the Christmas holiday season, congratulations! You will be visiting during one of the most magical times of the year, even for Disney. My family and I have been fortunate to celebrate a few Walt Disney World holidays in years past, so this article will discuss a few of our family's favorite things to see and do during the Disney Christmas season.

Let's start with the Magic Kingdom. You will find Cinderella's Castle decked out in breathtaking "icicle" lights each night. Be sure to get pictures: if you are like me and not great with taking night-time pictures, then get a few PhotoPass shots in front of the castle. Trust me you'll be glad you did!

Magic Kingdom also hosts Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party on a number of nights in December, prior to Christmas. This is a separate ticket, so if you want to attend, you will need to purchase tickets separately from your park pass. One of the highlights is the Christmas parade, featuring the famous Wooden Soldiers. If you want to see the parade, but don't plan on going to the Party before Christmas, you will be able to see it daily, every afternoon, typically starting Christmas Day...no separate ticket needed! (Please note: The Walt Disney World Christmas Parade that you see on TV every year on Christmas morning is not a live event and is, in fact, taped weeks before. So do not go to the Magic Kingdom on Christmas morning expecting to see/be in the parade!)

In Epcot, the World Showcase provide the focal point for the beautiful decorations of the "Holidays Around the World". If visiting other countries and learning what it would be like to celebrate Christmas in another country sounds interesting to you, then this is the place to be. Each country showcases their favorite holiday traditions, and many even have special Holiday Storytellers that share some very interesting and fun customs. In fact, it is not unusual to find Father Christmas in England, Pere Noel in France, and St. Nicholas in Germany among others. It is a delightfully fun and educational way to learn about Christmas customs around the world.

The probable highlight of the Walt Disney World holidays in Epcot is the Candlelight Processional. This nightly presentation of the Christmas story features a celebrity guest narrator, along with a huge massed choir comprised of professional, college, and high school choirs from around the country. There are 3 showings each night, but be advised that the line for seats can start hours before each showing, which is free with park admission. The best way to be certain of getting a seat is to purchase a Candlelight Processional dinner package. If you would rather not do this, then my advice would be to have someone from your group wait in the stand-by line to insure your ability to get a seat. This performance is not-to-be-missed: dramatic and moving, it is our family's favorite Christmas event at Disney.

Disney's Hollywood Studios has their fair share of holiday entertainment with the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights, held nightly on the Streets of America. There are literally millions of lights in this display and it is truly an amazing one. The streets can get very crowded however, during this busy season, so to get the most of your visit here, go during the nightly Fantasmic show, or at the end of the evening, before the park closes. It is much more enjoyable when you are not elbow to elbow with people!

And if this is not enough, then hop on over to Animal Kingdom for Mickey's Jingle Jungle Parade, featuring all of the characters in their holiday finest. In addition, Downtown Disney showcases the Festival of the Seasons, the perfect place to finish your holiday shopping. While there, visit Santa before Dec. 24, and say hi to Santa Goofy from Dec. 25 to Jan. 4. And be sure to also visit the Disney resorts to see their wonderful holiday decorations! Of special note is the Grand Floridian for the Gingerbread House, the Boardwalk for the Carousel, and the Wilderness Lodge and Animal Kingdom Lodge for the enormous trees. Whimsical and festive, these displays are a wonderful way to also get away from the crowds for a little.

With stunning decorations, festive atmosphere, and the usual brand of Disney magic, celebrating the Walt Disney World holidays are sure to provide a vacation that will be filled with wonderful family memories.

Hotels are meant to be your home away from home. Often, though, especially with the advent of boutique and luxury hotels, they are even more than that, they become experiences in and of themselves.

The trend in hotels is towards providing guests with an immersive experience. Hotels have become concepts; no longer is enough to be a stop over. Modern hotels are escapes; they act as little pockets of luxury, of freedom from the normal 9 to five grind.

Everywhere you look there are various themed hotels that have cropped up in all corners of the world. You can find a designer hotel with art themed rooms in practically every major city. There are hotels dedicated to fashion, to music, to being sustainable, to books and to celebrity personalities. And the public loves it.

Of course, you've got your standard beachside paradises, fully equipped with peace invoking reflecting pools, shabby-chic villas with mosquito netting romantically slung around the beds and organic chocolate covered coffee beans on the pillows; and you've got your upscale, metropolitan affairs, architecturally zeitgeisty structures that double as upstanding lessons on high class and elegance as well as those staid, institutional hotels which never go out of style.

Nevertheless, nowadays people are seeking more. They're looking for something different, an authentic experience, whether it be a clean, green hotel in the Amazon jungle or a small artsy boutique in Manhattan. There's no lack of edgy, cool hotels out there.

Here's a look at some of the world's most unique and unusual hotels.

The Magic Mountain Hotel, located right in the middle of the beautiful and scenic Huilo Huilo nature reserve in Panguipulli, Chile is indeed a sight to behold. The hotel is one of a kind-it was actually constructed in the shape of a mountain. Guests will marvel at the waterfall which springs from the peak of the 'mountain' and flows down the sides. As the hotel makes its home in the midst of a forest, guests can go for hikes, enjoy the natural hot tub made from giant wooden logs, participate in white water rafting and go on customized skiing trips.

You've probably heard about the famous Ice Hotel-in fact, now there are several in the world. The first, however, was built in a small town in northern Sweden called Jukkasakjarvi. The hotel started out as an art project, a small igloo constructed on the frozen Torne River. That igloo soon gave birth to the 5500 square meter Ice Hotel, which is made entirely out of ice and snow-it's an experience you won't forget.

In the Netherlands, visitors can head over to the Harlingen Lighthouse and stay in this charming tower. While the tower only houses two, and must be booked well in advance, it makes the perfect romantic weekend getaway. Although it doesn't come cheap, it's great for couples looking for an escape from the stress of daily life.

The Franklin Feel the Sound Hotel in Rome is all about music. This place is dedicated to good tunes, good design and modern technology. Located a few blocks away from the Vatican in the Prati quarter, this hotel offers guests all the creature comforts including high quality stereo sound systems and vinyl records.

Traveling in Australia is easy with a multitude of efficient methods to get around the country. Often renting a car is the first choice even with the recent hikes in the cost of petrol. Nevertheless, when the journey distance is more than a few hours, it is the plane that usually wins. Still there are other times when the best option is taking the bus, but how do you determine when this is your best option? Well read on.

Bus travel in Australia.

It is difficult to tell whether this is justified or not, but bus services in Australia have a rather tarnished image and many consider the services to be a last resort. The reality however is that there are plenty of service levels of buses available, ranging from luxury to economy depending on the carrier. Greyhound rules the industry operating bus transportation services across the country. You may also have heard of McAfferty's and Intertransit who are smaller companies that offer a certain brand and service level. In addition there are several strong regional players in the bus industry, although they may share service with Greyhound on certain routes.

Competing head on with the airlines industry is the introduction of luxury bus services, yet another new introduction to the industry. Such carriers offer A-1 services with coaches that reek of luxury and are considered to be most effective to travel to a destination which requires less than 6 hours of travel.

So how does one conclude the appropriate conditions when a bus journey is warranted? Answer these questions and you might find what you are looking for: What is the budget that you have planned for your journey? If it is low, take the bus. It is, without a doubt, the least expensive way to travel across Australia and if you are traveling in the East of the country, even more so as there are more companies who want your business.

When you get to where you are going, will you really need to hire a car?

How far are you going? If you are traveling less than a five or six hours it is probably faster to take the bus than to fly when you factor in waiting time at the airport. Moreover, the bus will likely drop you off in the downtown area so you do not have to find your way into the city once you arrive.

What is your destination? Remember most of the people in Australia find traveling by bus more convenient even if it is to the remote areas of the country as this is the only viable means of public transport. Are you in a hurry? If you have adequate time on your hands, traveling by bus could enable you to enjoy the landscape at leisure. If you are under time pressure, the bus is probably not the best choice as it is subject to traffic delays and usually takes a little longer than other modes of transportation. Overall, the bus is a great option for visitors to Australia who are looking for transportation between major Australia cities and more remote destinations alike. As the gas prices soar and train services get curtailed, this could be one of the most viable options for traveling.

We use the internet for everything nowadays. But still only a handful of lakefront real estate agents are using the web as a means of marketing their lake real estate. The majority of lakefront real estate agents still operate as they did ten years ago. As new real estate agents enter the field they are using these this technology to communicate with potential buyers.

So how do you use the internet to your advantage? By creating an interactive website interface that allows you to establish sales campaigns that work 365 days a year. As traffic builds for your website, your campaigns act as an extension of yourself to provide information to potential buyers in real time. Building a strong database takes some effort, but the rewards will pay off in the collection of vital information from potential buyers nationwide.

Real estate agents and brokers now see the value in providing short video clips, usually 2-3 minutes long to act as a virtual tour of the property being marketed. Youtube allows users to create online profiles and upload videos that can then be embedded and distributed through contact lists, websites, and blogs without having to learn any programming.

Blogs and videos provide near instant benefits to search engines by providing continually updated content. This also provides syndicated data that users can subscribe to. As real estate agents now see the real advantages of the process, many are now using this knowledge to carve out a niche and establish themselves as an authority in their area.

Lake real estate is still a person to person business but in order to reach the top the smart agents have adapted quickly to the new marketing angles enabled by the net. What kind of agent are you dealing with? What kind of agent do you want to be?

This district is recognized by their shopping centers, many tourist attractions, and its proximity to the seaside. Getting cheap hotels in Tenerife can be obtained fairly easily.

When you choose your hotel be aware of that you will get better pricing if you stay two or more days and plan on staying during the week. Monday and Tuesday frequently have the cheapest prices on the room. If you are able to plan your trip several weeks in advance, you can get better prices on rooms. You may also be able to get cheap rooms if you take a last minute trip.

Before you go, you need to know how much you are willing to pay for your room, and keep to that amount. This can ensure that you have enough money for your holiday.

Time of the year can also affect the pricing. So too, can the day of the week that you plan on checking in. Currently, there are several discounts on rooms that can be as little as $50 per night for a two day stay at a three star hotel up to $350 per night for a two day stay at a five star hotel.

Doing a search on line can show you some of the most current and best deals available on hotel rooms. Generally web sites will have better deals when you're planning a trip several weeks in advance. You can also check with a travel agent for a last minute plans you may have since they tend to have better deals for immediate travel.

Prices for those kinds of auto rooms generally start at a little less than $100 and go down from there. Prices also vary during certain times of the year, and never forget that the cheapest rooms will be extremely basic, though almost all will be neat and clean and probably only a very short distance from some of the better beaches and resorts. Consider the room just a rest area on the way to those beaches.

No doubt, there are numerous ways to plan a ski vacation in Colorado. Logically, the first step is to identify your final destination from various ski resorts in the mountains. The task can be a tremendous one for a planner who is not knowledgeable about Colorado. In spite of the various options, the choice is apparent: Alpine skiers should visit Breckenridge if they want to have a good time on, as well as off, the mountain.

Breckenridge Is For Alpine Skiing: The claim is supported by facts. The four vast and continuous peaks that make up the impressive Breckenridge Ski Resort measures 2,350 acres of skiable terrain. It is certainly good news for the expert alpine skiers as well as skiers in all levels of expertise. While Peak 7 is an opportunity for the expert skier to show off, beginners have their own space in the resort. And, let us not forget the past since we all started as beginners. So, be generous by letting the beginners chose where they are most comfortable. After all, there is plenty of terrain for every skill level in Breckenridge. Within the four peaks of Breck, you can go to four half pipes or five terrain parks. Over the tree line is 150 acres of terrain for the expert skier. And, the Imperial Express Superchair will lift you up 12, 840 feet to 400 acres of skiing space that was previously accessible only by hiking.

Plan Time for Skills Improvement: Even an expert can always learn something new. At Breckenridge Ski School, skiers can learn more, contrary to what you might think about lessons only being appropriate for beginners. Each lesson at the Ski and Ride School is not only educational but fun and insightful as well for all students- whether they enrolled for individual or group instructions. Besides the regular lessons, there are also specialized instructions for groups of students such as pipe enthusiasts, senior skiers, or women skiers.

Fun Off the Mountain: Although Breckenridge Ski Resort is unmatched by the other ski resorts in Colorado, the town is also a major reason why Breckenridge comes out as the premier destination for vacationers. 300-plus days of sunshine a year, combined with about 300 inches of snowfall every year make Breckenridge the place for thrill seekers who just enjoy relaxing. When it is about entertainment, and showing the visitors what it takes to have a good time, the other the ski towns in Colorado can learn a lot from Breckenridge. Visitors to this mountain town will find that festivals or special events are planned for each month. Whether you go for a Mardi Gras party or you prfer the International Snow Sculpture Competition, schedule your trip in time for these events. On the serious side, Breckenridge is part of the historic past of Colorado proven by important relics , such as the Country Boy Mines or Gold Pan saloon that serve as reminders. Side by side with the past is the presence on Main Street of various bars, stores and restaurants that are part of modern living.

Planning Your next Options: While visitors to affluent ski towns such as Aspen or Vail expect to spend a lot for high-priced lodging options, they will find more economical options in Breckenridge. In fact, Breckenridge discount lodging offers are just as widely available as the high-end options. Visitors will find large vacation houses as well as affordable town homes near Main Street where there is an option for everyone.

The main thing is that an alpine skier that has not tried anywhere in the 2,349 acres of terrain at the Breckenridge Ski Resort is certainly missing out on the exciting experience. Don't let this happen to you. In planning your next ski vacation in Colorado, make Breckenridge the top item in your list.

You are nearing fifty and it is your turn to enjoy life. Taking a cruise anywhere you want to go is the best way to do this. There are a large number of cruise lines that sail virtually everywhere someone would ever want to go.

How about a Mediterranean cruise - along the Nile or an exotic one in Asia - Thailand or Hawaii? Costa Rica? Or a cold adventurous one through the Arctic? The choices are a plenty and each one different from the others.

Apart from the places you visit enroute, the cruise company has its own party planned on the liner. The luxurious interiors of a ship are complemented by the activities such as pools, casinos, fine dining, dancing and many more. You can decide on the cruise that fits your mood and your age too! Yes, cruise lines offer specialized itineraries for different groups. If you feel adventurous, you can opt for the cruise offering offshore hiking and other adventure activities.

The majority of people that take a cruise will take more than one in their life because of the fact it is a memorable expedition and a time to remember.

One of the best parts of a cruise is that you get to see so many destinations in one trip. Besides, the ship docks for a few days in one port for supplies. This helps passengers who get to sightsee in peace. It is a boon for the travelers who like to enjoy the local attractions.

In case you can't plan too much in advance or have decided to take a cruise at the last minute, you needn't despair. Most cruise lines offer a variety of departure schedules so that you can adjust according to your comfort. Certain cruises last quite a while.

Additional information and assistance in making cruise arrangements for anywhere in the world can be obtained from numerous travel agencies. An individual's ability to sit back and relax while they enjoy the good life that comes with a great cruise is the best part of being in or near your fifties. There are many occasions for watching dolphins as they are often seen jumping along the sides of the cruise ship; then there is the pleasure of the clear blue skies, clear blue water and amazingly beautiful starry nights.

Extended cruises do however go into various ports, not only for the passengers to sight see and visit other attractions, but the cruise lines also get additional supplies if needed as well.

A cruise is a wonderful investment. The returns are memories that stay with you a lifetime!