All the great places for vacation

Thursday, July 31, 2008

Niagara Falls and Nearby Tourist Attractions



For those families planning to visit Niagara Falls, it is a comfort to know that there are hundreds of exciting attractions in the surrounding region of Niagara Falls. From gorgeous gardens and lakes, to fun recreational activities for the entire family, the Niagara Falls region offers something for everyone's enjoyment. Below you will find some of the major attractions nearby Niagara Falls.

Tourists and their families are sure to love the Aquarium of Niagara Falls, located at 701 Whirlpool Street. The aquarium's operating hours are from 9 am to 4 pm each day and the aquarium is the home to penguins, seals, sharks, sea lions, and more. The cost of admission into the aquarium is reasonable: adults pay $8.00, children from 4 to 12 pay $5.50, and children under 4 are free. Group rates are also available at the aquarium.

Whirlpool Park is also a fantastic family attraction in the Niagara Falls region. Whirlpool Park is easily accessed from the Ross State Parkway; it's a natural park with hiking trails, and a view of incredible rapids and whirlpools. What's best about Whirlpool Park is that it is open all year long and there is absolutely no cost for admission.

Again, there is an abundance of fantastic sites in the Niagara region and tourist might enjoy visiting the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, located at 2565 Niagara Parkway. With more than 100 acres of land consisting of herbal, rock, vegetable, and floral gardens, in conjunction with the fantastic exhibits available, the entire family will have a memorable experience at this popular tourist destination.

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Landmarks and Monuments in Germany



When visiting Germany you might want to see a few landmarks and monuments. These are located all over the country and showcase the country's history and its people. You will be able to get a greater understanding about Germany while you are there.

One of the most visited landmarks by tourists is the Neuschwanstein caste. It is located on a mountain top in southwestern Germany between the towns of Hohenschwangau and Fssen. It was built by Ludwig Friedrich Wilhelm II, King of Bavaria to be a retreat for Richard Wagner. Over 1.3 million people visit the castle per year. It happens to be the most photographed building in Germany, but the interior cannot be photographed by the public. The castle has been in several movies, and has even been used to inspire several castles in Disneyland. It was even a finalist in the selection of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It is a magnificent landmark to see.

In Berlin the Reichstag is one of the most popular and historical landmark. This building is the seat of the German Parliament. It was created by Paul Wallot after the founding of the German Empire. It took 10 years to construct, being completed in 1894. By 1933 the building was burned and left damaged for many years during the Cold War. It eventually was restored and once again became the seat of parliament. There is a dome at the top of the building where people can see a view of Berlin. It is free to enter the building but beware of the long lines and security checks.

While in Berlin, you will probably be able to see Germany's well known landmark, which is the Fernsehturm. It is a television tower in the center of the city. It is the fourth tallest free standing structure in all of Europe. Visitors take a 4 second shaft ride to the sphere section of the structure and get amazing views of the city up to 25 miles on a clear day! There is also a restaurant that rotates every 20 minutes which is sure to be a memorable dining experience.

If you visit Munich, one of their popular landmarks is the Olympic Tower. It is located within the Olympic Park. It came about in 1968 and is the central point for radio and television in southern Germany. Part of the tower is for different radio and television facilities. It takes only 27 seconds to get to the different areas on the tower thanks to an express elevator. The viewing area has a restaurant at the height of 590 feet. You will be able to have a wonderful meal while viewing the city of Munich. The restaurant turns every 53 minutes.

There are many more landmarks to see while you visit Germany. The country has many castles to tour. There are also landmarks about the history of the country. You will be able to learn first hand about the country's past and have a greater understanding. If you do not know of which landmarks to visit, there are tours available throughout the cities that will take groups to different areas and talk about the landmarks. It is worth doing while you travel in the country.

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Landmarks and Monuments in France



When visiting France you will be able to see many landmarks and monuments. These are a part of the countries history. You will be able to gain a better understanding of the country and its people. Many of the places are tourist spots, which may charge a fee to see, while others are throughout the cities for everyone to view. If you enjoy sight seeing there are a few landmarks and monuments that you may not want to miss.

Paris has many landmarks and monuments to discover. One of them is the Arc de Triomphe. It is located in the middle of Place Charles de Gaulle. The arch honors the people who have fought for France. It also holds the tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The monument stands over 165 ft high, making it the second largest triumphal arch in the world. Visitors can either walk the 284 steps to reach the top, or take a lift that is available which will get them to 46 steps. Once at the top, there is an amazing view of Paris where the visitor can see city.

A trip to Paris would not be complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower. It has become a world icon of France and one of the most recognizable structures. The Eiffel Tower is the most visited monument in the world, so be prepared to not be the only tourist there. It was finished in 1889, and is the 5th tallest structure in the country. There is a fee to tour the tower. You will also be able to eat there if you get hungry. They have two restaurants to choose from.

Pont du Gard is one of France's top 5 tourist attractions. It is located in the south of France and is an aqueduct built by the Roman Empire. In 2000, the French government helped in a major redevelopment project, giving visitors access to the entire area around the aqueduct and updating the visitor buildings. This included adding a museum. See why more than a million people a year have visited this attraction.

Sacr-Cur Basilica is a popular Roman Catholic basilica located in Paris. It is decided to the Scared Heart of Jesus. The basilica was not completed until 1914 after many years. Since Sacr-Cur was built of travertine stone, it remains white even with pollution and weathering. One of the most beautiful features of the basilica is the mosaic of the apse. It is known as "Christ in Majesty" and is one of the largest in the world. Guests can go to the top of the dome where they will have a panoramic view of Paris. Tourists will also be able to relax in the outside garden that is for meditation. Sacr-Cur has been featured in numerous films and music. It is a great stop while discovering what Paris has to offer.

Landmarks and Monuments are throughout France so you will have no trouble finding them. This would make a great addition to your travel itinerary. Not only will you get to see more of the country, you will get to learn its history.

Sunday, July 13, 2008

The Beauty of Caribbean Cruises



The beautiful scenes, the perfect weather and observing the wonders of nature. Indeed, it is a paradise and I am talking about Caribbean cruises.

If you're planning to go on a cruise, it can be difficult to choose between all the different cruise lines and destinations available to you. One thing is for sure, you want to create a memory that will live with you for the rest of your life. Caribbean cruises offer just that. Not only do they have all the natural splendors of the world, but there are many different options available to you, depending upon your price point and which destinations you wish to see.

There are several different Caribbean islands you can visit, and take in the scenery with your own eyes. What was once a dream can now become a reality. Anybody who's taken a Caribbean cruise will agree that it is an experience that will be hard to forget. The cost is minimal compared to the value of the experience you get.

When you go to the Caribbean, you're sure to see lush and abundant vegetation, beautiful beaches and breathtaking views. Even among the modern resorts in the Caribbean, you'll still experience an enchanting and fresh world.

Not to mention the climate and temperature are ideal, and the beaches are some of the best the world has to offer. Depending on which Caribbean cruise you choose, you may visit rainforests, shop in extravagant locations, or choose from a variety of different options.

Also, you can take a short cruise or a long cruise. It all depends on how long you wish to stay, and how much vacation time you have spent at the Caribbean.

Remember, Caribbean cruises don't have to be just for couples, it's an experience your whole family can enjoy. You can go on a school holiday, or during summer vacation with your children, so everyone can experience the Caribbean together!

Saturday, July 5, 2008

Driving in Colombia



If you decide to rent a car and drive yourself around while in Colombia, there a few things to take into consideration. As in many other countries and nations, driving can be quite a different experience from what it is here in the United States. It is very important that a traveler abroad remembers this. In the United States we have set traffic laws and officers who enforce them, which is not necessarily so in Colombia. This makes driving in Colombia something comparable to one of our televised car races here in the States.

Traffic laws and speed limits are rarely observed or obeyed and even more rarely enforced as I have already mentioned. This creates much more dangerous road conditions than what we will ever be used to here in the states. The conditions make city driving dangerous for both driver and pedestrian and out of city driving just as dangerous. So, you would also do well to remember that if you are on foot in the city for very long, to watch out for the drivers because it seems the pedestrian does not have the right of way here in Colombia. The law concerning seat belts is the same as it is here in the states. Seat belts are a mandatory thing for front seat passengers. However, car seats are not mandatory for children, but children under ten are not permitted to be front seat passengers. It is also against the law to talk on your cellular phone while driving in Colombia and if you are caught doing so you could be up for some hefty fines.

If you are driving outside any major city at any time you must travel with your head lights on. It does not matter if it is day or night, this is a must requirement in Colombia. If you do happen do get involved in an accident the usual rules apply. You must not leave the scene of the accident until proper authorities have arrived and everything is sorted out, much like it is done here in the United States. This is another one of their rules that is strictly enforced, so if you do find yourself in this situation by some means please follow their rules.

Luckily for the American traveler road safety and security is slowly improving in some places, especially around the major cities like Bogota. However, the U.S. Embassy highly recommends that you do no traveling outside of major cities or urban areas, whether by bus or car. The Colombian Government has made extra efforts and taken extra precautions during holidays for travelers from all over the world, but outside those periods of time it is still not entirely safe for anyone to be driving around on their roads. There is also the danger of the guerrilla and paramilitary groups and even the common criminal being out on these urban roads which makes them dangerous in that way as well. So just remember to exercise extreme caution and safety if you decide to travel these roads on your own.