All the great places for vacation

Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Traveling in Medellin, Columbia



Medellin is known to be one of the most populous cities and the second largest city in the country after the city of Bogota. Medellin was founded by Francisco Herrera and Don Campuzano. Medellin has a population of over two million people. Medellin also serves as the core of the Aburra Valley metropolitan area in Columbia. It is one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the world. It has an ongoing problem like other Columbia cities with unemployment and sub employment problems going on. This is and has been the main concern of the city.

Land transportation is important in the city of Medellin. When traveling in the city of Medellin you have the option of traveling with the Metro Public transportation system. Medellin's Metro Public transportation system consists of diesel buses and taxis and an urban train. The urban train connects the cities of Medellin, Envigado, Itagui and Bello. There is also an air cable car that complements the urban train that is locally known as Metrocable. It serves a geographically difficult area that is known to be depressed. The traffic in Medellin is what you would call chaotic because of the number of vehicles that is on the highway. And exceeding the highways capacity. The diesel buses and the pollution produced by them have become a big problem and issue. This is noticed more in the center of the city and the southern district called El Poblado. The city offers no additional space for more constructions of new highways.

In the year 2006 the construction started for the Metroplus. This will help in allowing faster transit for buses and stations similar to Bogota's TransMilenio. This service will take place in 2008 covering almost all of the city area. This service will help out with the city's traffic problems and contamination problems. Most of the old buses will be retired and the new service buses with operate with natural gas. Air transportation is also used for many reasons in Medellin. International flights go through the Jose Maria Cordova International Airport in Rionegro a municipality of Medellin. This airport is much better suited for larger aircraft and night time operations. It has an international terminal that has daily international flights to and from the areas of Miami, Panama City, New York, Caracas, Quito, Aruba and a mixture of other important ant cities.

There are certain signs of heavy urban development in the city of Medellin, mainly with the construction of many new skyscrapers. The fact is Medellin is outpacing every other major Colombian city in the construction and in the development of new high rises that includes Bogota, known as the nation's capital and economic center. In November 2007, there were many new high rises that were under construction and going up in Medellin. One of these included twenty five being approved and seventeen of them being proposed. There are more high rises under construction in Medellin today than in cities such as Los Angeles, New York City and Philadelphia put all together.

Thursday, December 25, 2008

French Spas



After working a 9 to 5 job, dealing with everyday stresses in life, a vacation is needed to relax and regain your senses. Deciding to take a vacation to France is a good start. The problem is, is that dealing with the long tourist lines and crowded restaurants might not relax you as much as you would like. This is when visiting a spa becomes a must do while in France. The country has many luxurious spas to choose from. You are sure to find one that will relax your body and mind.

Evian Royal Resort is one of the most exclusive 42 acre estates in the world. It is located on the shores of Lake Geneva and near the French Alps, making for beautiful views. Evian Royal Resort is famous for its fabulous spa which concentrates on restoring body and soul. There are quite a few packages to choose from. One of the packages available is the 6 night regeneration and beauty package. An experienced team which includes masseurs, physiotherapists, and beauty therapists will provide treatments that help understand one's body, a balanced diet, and harmonizing energies. They have knowledge of oriental traditions which will help ease your tensions and awaken your senses. The resort also has a golf club and different restaurants to enjoy.

La Trianon Palace & Spa is located in Paris at a Westin Hotel property. It offers luxury and elegance. You will feel like royalty as soon as you step in. The spa offers massages, body treatments, and manicures since they have a full service salon. La Trianon Palace & Spa also has a steam room and full shower system to enjoy. The outside of the spa is full of beautiful flowers which you can view as you sit in their relaxation area. It is worth spoiling yourself at this spa. Reservations are recommended.

If you would like a retreat from Paris, Givenchy Spa is a great place to escape. It is located in the Hotel Martinez. The spa is located in Cannes, with amazing views of the ocean from its courtyards and balconies. You will be able to enjoy their outdoor services, private beach or pool, and terrace. The highlight of the spa is the 4 Hand Ylang Ylang massage. The spa uses its own products for all of its body wraps, body scrubs, and facials. Also available is the Canyon Love Stone therapy which consists of using hot stones.

Meurice Hotel is a retreat within the city of Paris. They offer marble stone baths with purified water to relax in. You will be able to choose from a variety of skin treatments, and massages. There are also packages for men available, so you're Husband or Boyfriend will not be left out.

Spas are throughout the country so it is best to look into them before you leave for France. This way you will know what the spa offers and be the most satisfied when you are there. You will be able to relax and enjoy the France at the same time.

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Travel Tips for Visiting France



When you decide to take a vacation to France there are some information that you should know. Learning how the country is and what it offers will make your trip from beginning to end stress free. You should be aware of how you will travel to get there, and once you are there. You should know of the areas you are going to visit and where you plan on staying. You also should know how to act while there because every country has their own customs and ways of doing everyday things.

Air France is the national airline for the country. There are quite a few airports to choose from. Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) is located 14 miles from the city. There are coaches that run every 20 minutes to the city for easy travel. The airport is also near a train that can take you where you want to go. Paris Orly (ORY) is an airport that is located 9 miles south of the city. Buses and coaches run about every 12 minutes to help you get to your destination. Taxis are also easy to find. Lyon (LYS) (Lyon-Saint-Exupry) is an airport found 15 miles from the city. Taxis and coaches are available.

One other airport you can fly to is Marseille (MRS) (Marseille-Marignane). It is located 19 miles from the city and also has coaches and taxis ready for travelers.

Greetings in France usually consist of shaking hands, and often times kissing both cheeks. Monsieur or Madame is the normal terms to address someone. If you go to a formal dinner the special guest or host will let everyone know when they can begin to eat. Mealtime is usually long and relaxing so make sure you space your plans correctly so you can enjoy your meal. Casual clothing is common, but France is known for their stylish clothes. If you go to a more social spot such as a club or casino, the clothing is more formal.

The weather in France differs throughout the year just like in the rest of the world. When packing your clothing you will have to consider this. In the spring and fall the temperatures are commonly between 45-60 degrees Fahrenheit. Winter time temperatures range between 30-45 degrees Fahrenheit. Summer is naturally the warmest time of year with temperatures being 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. Remember to pack comfortable shoes for all the walking you will be doing. Clothes that can be layered will be ideal for temperature changes and also a coat that can be for all types of weather.

If you only know a few words in French, do not worry. Even though French is the official language of the country, English is understood by many French that live in major cities.

When traveling to France you will need to remember that passports are required. If you do not have one while you are arranging your trip, it is best to get one issued to you as soon as possible so it does not interrupt your plans. Once you have everything set and you are there enjoying yourself, the only thing you will have to worry about is which wine you are going to have.

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Traveling in Mexico City, Mexico



Mexico City is, of course, the capital of the country and the most populous city in Mexico. It is by far the most important economic center, industrial center, and cultural center. There are nearly twenty million people that inhabit this large city making it the most populous city in the western hemisphere and the second largest in the world. Herein Mexico City is where the Powers of the Union are at seat. Mexico City is located in the Valley of Mexico, which is also called the Valley of Anahuac, which is located in the center of the country.

Mexico City is home to many historic landmarks and is a great traveling destination. There is, of course, the Historic Center of Mexico City and the floating gardens which can both be found in the southern boroughs of the city. These have both been declared World Heritage Sites by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Some of the famous landmarks that reside in the Historic Center include to Plaza de la Constitucion, the main central square with its oddly time clashing Spanish like era Metropolitan Cathedral and the Palacio Nacional. There are, of course, the ancient Aztec ruins and within a few steps of that the Templo Mayor, which is the tallest skyscraper in Latin America.

There are also an array of great museums and parks to visit while you are here. There is the Museum of Estanquillo or the Museum of Cartoons and Magazine, which should be a hit for any adult fans in the family and all the kids. Not far from here is the most recognizable icon and landmark of Mexico City, the Golden Angel of Independence. This Angel is found on the wide avenue Paseo de la Reforma, and was modeled by command of the Emporer Maximilian after the Champs Elysees in Paris. The avenue was also by design to specifically connect the National Palace, which is the seat of government, to the Castle of Chapultepec, which is the residence of the royalty. Today, it is still just as an important part of the city, housing the financial district. Any tourist would enjoy walking down this road for its historical importance and landmarks along the way.

There is a lot of great sight seeing here in Mexico City. There are a lot of attractions that are literally steps away from one another. There is even the single longest avenue in the world here and it is named Avenida de los Insurgentes, and it is nearly twenty miles long.

Not far from here is the Chapultepec Park that houses that Castle of Chapultepec which is now a museum on a hill! This Museum overlooks other various monuments and even the city zoo. The city zoo is also a great visit while here in Mexico City. Over the last few years it has grown to have more species of animals and has grown in size. So, if you're looking for a great vacation destination, look no further! Mexico City has attractions that are only a couple steps out your hotel door!

Monday, December 8, 2008

The Truth about Carnival Cruise Lines



You're not restricted to only land when it comes to your vacation. Cruise ships offer an ideal way to spend your vacation time. You can relax, travel to and view exotic locations, and see many different destinations, all in one vacation.

Imagine experiencing this on your cruise. You wake up, and you find freshly brewed coffee and an exotic breakfast. It is prepared and waiting for you at your table. After breakfast, you may take in the sun for a while and look at the beautiful scenery. Or, maybe you want to swim on the pool aboard the ship, or just relax in the spa.

If you're tense, why not get a massage from the onboard masseuse? You want to be ready for later, when you attend the evening activities, or play in one of the casinos that are found aboard the ship. If neither of those are your cup of tea, just relax and enjoy a great dinner in the dining room and plan for tomorrow.

Depending on which Carnival Cruise Line you choose, all of these activities and more are available to you. It all depends on what you wish to do on your vacation, when deciding upon which Carnival Cruise Lines to go with.

Besides activities, Carnival Cruise Lines offer you a variety of destinations you can explore. From Alaska to Hawaii, Mexico to the Caribbean, and more! With all the different locations, it won't be hard to find a cruise package perfect for you.

We discussed some of the activities above that you can enjoy on a carnival cruise. In addition to those, there are many different cruises that offer golf instruction, an onboard gym, the finest first class meals and wine available in the world, activities for children such as puppet shows and face painting, as well as a variety of different games and movies.

A carnival cruise is the perfect way to enjoy a vacation!

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Festivals in France



There are many festivals that take place all over France throughout the year. When you visit the country there may be one happening. These festivals can have just about anything. You will find festivals celebrating music, food, and art. There are also festivals for film and car lovers. When making your trip plans, try to find out if there will be a festival taking place when you are visiting.

If you love music, France has many festivals that involve it. One of the biggest music festivals in the country is FrancoFolies. It happens every summer in the city of La Rochelle. The festival features many French musicians that play jazz, rock, and folk. There usually are international bands that also perform. This festival would be great for someone visiting who would like a taste of the French music scene.

Another music festival that happens during the summer is the Paris Jazz Festival. It is a series of free concerts that occur in the 1,500 seat Espace Delta in Parc Floral which is in the middle of Bois de Vincennes. These concerts are held every Saturday and Sunday at 4:30 PM. The crowd can listen while in a chaise lounge, or have a picnic while the musicians play. There have been many artists that have performed including Didier Lockwood, and Claude Nougaro.

If you enjoy wine and are traveling in Paris in October, a great festival to go to is Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival. Montmartre is a wine growing area in Paris. This area has hosted the festival since 1937. It occurs the first Saturday of October and is free. It includes wine tasting, a parade, and a large gathering of wine growers, lovers, and experts. In the evening there is a variety show, dinner, and a ball. This would be a great festival to attend.

Festivals in France are not just about music and food. Every July in Biarritz, which is a town located on the beach of Southwestern France there is a surf festival held at the Cte des Basques which is the birthplace of surfing in the country. People come from all over the world to take part in it. There are a number of contests and demonstrations for surfing, paddle board racing, and other water sports. You will also be able to see Hawaiian ceremonies. The fun does not end when the sun goes down. There is films and music to continue the celebration through the long summer evenings. This would be a great festival if you are planning a vacation near the beach. You will be able to see surfers from all over the world and maybe even try surfing yourself!

There are many festivals throughout the year in all of France. You can easily find one happening while you are there. It is best to look ahead of time so you will not miss them once you are in town. You will be able to enjoy what France has to offer such as music, food, and films, and perhaps even learn more about the country while having a wonderful time.