Enjoy Amsterdam Holidays With A Difference

While Amsterdam is certainly well known as a favourite holiday destination, there are many people that have pigeonholed it as merely a city ideal for stag and hen does. However, the largest city in the Netherlands has far more to offer than excellent pubs, clubs and restaurants, it’s also a fabulous place for history, art and culture lovers to take a break and enjoy the chance to soak up some of the city’s unique ambiance. From the fabulous and sometimes quaint architecture to the gorgeous and convenient canal networks, there’s plenty to enjoy an Amsterdam. What’s more, when it comes to this relaxed city, there’s far more to a holiday there than meets the eye.

Some of the most fascinating experiences in Amsterdam are in its historic hotspots. For example, few people would forget a trip to the Rijksmuseum Amsterdam – a Dutch national museum packed with arts and crafts artefacts – or the fabulous Hermitage Amsterdam museum, home to some eye-popping exhibits. Arts fan however, are unlikely to take a trip to Amsterdam without making sure they stop off at the fabulous Van Gogh museum. Visitors can also pop next door to enjoy some excellent modern art at the impressive Stedelijk Museum.

Those who prefer their cultural experiences to be live action, will love the various performance opportunities in Amsterdam. The city is stuffed with venues and a whole variety of different shows, from rock, pop and jazz to classical music, it’s easy to find some musical entertainment in Amsterdam. If it’s theatre or comedy you’re after, then the city has plenty to offer. With a strong tradition in musical cabaret, the delightful blend of music, storytelling, commentary, theatre and comedy can be found in numerous venues throughout the city.

When you’re looking for an exciting night out, Amsterdam finds it easy to provide. The city has two main areas for diverse nights out, the Leidseplein and the Rembrandtplein, where plenty of clubs and discotheques can be found. However, one of the most enriching experiences to be enjoyed in the city is a canal tour that will let you see the sights from a unique and comfortable vantage point and can be enjoyed by both day and night.

Holidays in Amsterdam can be wonderfully diverse experiences, so don’t feel as though you have to stick to preconceptions or the travel guides. Instead, follow your instincts and inclinations to create a holiday that you’ll never forget in this picturesque capital of culture.

Discovering Tropical North Queenslands Paronella Park

There are so many different exotic experiences to have in this region but perhaps one of the most incredible is the one that you will have if you choose to visit Paronella Park while in the Tropical North Queensland region of Australia. Paronella Park is located in the Mena Creek region of the TNQ and offers a year round experience that will blow your mind.

This park became Paronella Park named for Jose Paronella, a Spanish immigrant, who put alot of effort into developing it in the late 20's and early 30's. It had an attraction that was very future oriented, not seen before, but amongst all the other buildings people got to witness the first privately owned hydro electric fountain system that accessed water from all the fantastic waterfalls in the region. Paronella also planted 7000 trees to help with preservation efforts and make it more naturally aesthetically pleasing. It was available for decades, was closed and abandoned for over 45 years, then discovered all over again in 1993, becoming open to visitors again.

This place known as Paronella Park has much Australian culture and history for visitors to experience, along with the information on a special Spanish immigrant who had amazing creative engineering talent far ahead of his peers. There are many descriptions of the park on the internet for you to see but that does not compare to coming here it see it for yourself.

Both day and night tours are offered, and the admission is valid for a year so you can revisit all over again if you would like to. The tours, both of them, include all the information about Jose and his incredible visions for this area; the evening tour is especially beautiful because all the falls have lighting which will make your pictures stunning.

If you choose the night version of the tour you have the chance to camp out that night or reside in the caravan park. Whichever choice you make this is a definite must see in Tropical North Queensland, fun for the family along with a dose of culture and history.

Mallorca Holidays – Enjoy the Countryside by Going on a Mountaineering Trip

Even as a holiday to Mallorca might invoke pictures of idle days spent on seashores, wonderful climate, and excellent nightlife, the island can as well offer a bit to the more energetic, nature-loving visitor. Ahead of landing up in an excellent holiday villa in Mallorca, you might like to look into the extensive array of open-air enjoyment on offer on the island and plan some lively days on your Mallorca trip. Although several tourists to the island might at once rush to the sea for the most part of their vacation, Mallorca is in fact home to a mountain range with several tall peaks perfect for looking at on a stopover to one of its several holiday villas.

Serra de Tramuntana Mountain range stretches for some 90 kilometers from Pollenca to Sa Mola in Andratx and is about 15 kilometers broad, this mountain range is a perfect place to travel around by foot and get a bird’s view of the island of Mallorca. Even as scaling the Mallorca hills, you must watch closely for the wild animals like goats and sheep that stray here along with this, a large number of birds like falcon or an osprey can be spotted in the area. Several mountains in the range are predominantly tall, with Puig Major standing on top of all the rest at an altitude of 1,447 meters. The next highest mountain on the island is Massanella and is 1,352 meters high and can provide hikers an excellent view of this Spanish holiday destination from top.

There are several smaller peaks like Puig Tomir and Tossals Verds that are just a bit over 1,100 meters tall for the less energetic ones. Overall, the Serra de Tramuntana Mountain range has ten peaks that are more than 1,000 meters however visitors can climb a hill for magnificent views of the Spanish landscape below. Overall the Serra de Tramuntana Mountain range is a excellent spot for tourists to spend some hours in and there is in fact no better place to head to unwind after a hard day's mountaineering than a lavish villa on Mallorca, that have all the modern amenities that people are accustomed to in their own houses.

Since it can be hot during the day in Mallorca making a mountaineering trip uncomfortable, the most excellent time to go on a hiking trip is in the evening as it is cooler at this time and is thus perfect for those planning to attempt one of the higher peaks and view the amazing Spanish island of Mallorca from top. There several villages and towns, including Soller that lies inside the mountain valley and is famous for its olive and orange orchards.

The town of Deia can as well be explored on a mountaineering expedition and is perfect for individuals wanting to see a more customary side of Mallorca and has orchards of olive and orange, and is an excellent place to unwind with a glass of sangria subsequent to a day spent hiking in the mountains of the Serra de Tramuntana. Even as resting in the town, you might be able to get a whiff of the wild rosemary that covers the mountain peaks and emits a lovely fragrance in the heat of the Mallorcan sun.

Rainforest, Rainforest, Is There Anything Else to Do in Tropical North Queensland?

Discovering all there is to know about this region on the web will keep bringing up three main things, and not really anything else, they are the Aboriginal peoples and culture, the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Actually this area has many other things to do besides these three main attractions.

Bundara Gallery - Conveniently located in the heart of Port Douglas you will find this incredibly gallery. It offers a mix of Aboriginal, historical and modern art from around the world with a focus on local artists of Aboriginal descent both past and present. The quality of the works found in this gallery is spectacular and each provides a look at the history of the region with authentication.

Cape Tribulation Exotic Fruit Farm - This experience will allow you a unique look at fruit farming in the region. Come and learn more about these incredible fruits as you listen to stories about them and learn how to eat and prepare these fruits properly. You will enjoy some tasting as well as a walk through the incredible organic orchard.

Mount Surprise Fossicking Tours - This unique tour experience allows you to come and dig up your own gems such as Quartz, Topaz and Aquamarine. Novices and children are welcome as you can come an learn how these unique stones are acquired from the Earth. Some walking across uneven ground is part of the tour and you will be given the opportunity to have your gem made into a sparkling stone that shines and can be appraised by an expert. An on-sight caf is also available.

It's possible to find these along with other attractions by looking at the local newspaper or online. A lot of the hotels have pamphlets about other attractions and you can look through those to find what is interesting to you. Visiting the rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef is recommended but there are many other experiences to be had in Australia's Tropical North Queensland.

Experience the World of Rapture in Balearic Islands

Travel to the Balearic Islands will bring you into a world of rapture. Surrounded by Mediterranean Sea, this paradise includes a group of four breathtaking islands including Cabrera, Menorca, Mallorca and Ibiza. The climate of the islands is also an attraction that caters to both warmth and health with sunlight all round the year.

Apart from 24 hours parties that keep happening on the island, the visitors also gets to experience and see the Gothic cathedrals, never-ending orchards that are laden with oranges and olives, fishing villages and ruins of Stone Age. The fact that one can enjoy the sun on the magnificent white sandy beaches along with the rich culture and hospitality that people offer makes this island one of the most favorite destination for holidays.

Ibiza is known for the cobalt blue water, breathtaking sceneries and shimmering beaches that it has. It is the perfect place for a night bird, especially those who like to hop from one nightclub to another. Menorca is also the perfect place would like to experience its retained and outstanding natural beauty.

While you are in Balearic Islands for holidays, you must not miss Formentera Island, yet another island situated next to Ibiza. Majorca is known for its warm water and golden sandy beaches, perfect for those who want to enjoy island to its fullest. If you want to maximize your adventure, you can hire a holiday villa which will gratify to all your needs.

A lot many stunning and self catering villas available in for stay while you holiday in Balearic Islands. These villas situated in various locations and one get to choose a villa based on personal preferences. Holiday villas in Balearic Islands are also the perfect way to add the luxury factor in your experience.

Sand and sea are not the only attractions in Billerica Islands. Arc de Sant Roc, Can Marques mansion, Castell de Bellver, Coves d’Arta are some of the popular places on the island. Fine beaches, wild night life, unending sunshine and delicious food are the epitome of the vivacious life style that people of Balearic Islands have.

Getting the most out of Cape Town this summer

This summer's World Cup will be the biggest international event ever staged in South Africa, and the capital Cape Town is more than prepared to offer a unique experience to visitors. Whether you're just visiting to see the match or looking to extend your visit to take in more of the country's sights and attractions, there's much to look forward to on an edifying holiday in Cape Town this June.

With England being guaranteed at least one game in the city, Cape Town is already an essential destination for many among the 100,000 British football fans who will be heading to South Africa in June and July this year. This also means accommodation in Cape Town is selling just as fast as tickets, and fans are advised to arrange their trip as soon as possible to avoid missing out. There's a lot more to gain from flying all the way to Cape Town than just football, with a range of opportunities to experience before and after the games.

As well as being a significant sporting event, the 2010 World Cup has also been vital for South African tourism, opening up the country to more international visitors. With tourism bodies working hard to make the nation attractive for the influx of visitors this summer, there really hasn't been a better time to visit Cape Town, with its impressive natural landmarks such as the famous Tab le Mountain, which visitors can see in all its glory by taking a cable car ride to the plateau, and diverse cultural offerings.

Whether it's diving with sharks or sampling the local jazz culture, a trip to Cape Town is ideal for visitors of all backgrounds. A developed city, Cape Town has a vibrant nightlife and there are many great places to eat and drink when heading into the central city. For cultural visitors, attractions such as the District Six Museum and the infamous Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was held prisoner for 18 years, offer a fascinating insight into South Africa's history.

If you're one of the thousands of football fans taking flights to Cape Town to cheer on your team this summer, you can also find a number of other exciting events being held in the city to get even more out of your visit. From comedy at the Vodacom Funny Festival to groundbreaking documentary filmmaking at the Encounters South African Inter-national Documentary Festival, South Africa is ready and waiting to make a lasting impression on visitors this summer.

Vancouver - The Beautiful City Between the Sea and the Mountains

On your trip to Vancouver as you start flying down the Canadian’s City Airport runaway, you will be greeted by scenic natural scenery with mountains on one side and the sea lying beautifully on the other side. More emphasize as to what you should expect in the city of Vancouver is felt in the baggage claim area, as you will be greeted with large beautiful Pacific Northwest Coast Indian art carvings. Needless to mention, it will augment your overall taste of nature and create an ambience that distinguishes Vancouver from the rest of the cities in Canada.

As you drive from the airport along the Granville Street, you will notice that the hedges and trees surrounding the residential areas are taller and larger than trees anywhere else in the world. Myth has it that the oversized trees are due to the huge amount of rainfall experienced in Vancouver, but what would you expect of a city sandwiched between mountains and the ocean? The best time to visit Vancouver for a true holiday experience is during the summer months, most preferably the month of September when the sun is known to sooth and calm the skin against a scenic backdrop of mountains and calming ocean.

One of the top tourist attractions in Vancouver, which happens to be strategically located, is the Stanley Park, found on the west side of downtown Vancouver. While at the park, you get to see Vancouver’s Aquarium, beautiful tall trees that seem to touch the skies and you will also get to marvel at a splendid collection of Pacific Northwest Coastal Indian art totem poles. The Stanley Park is connected to North Vancouver with the Lion’s Gate Suspension Bridge on the other side of the port. The Grouse Mountain, the closest ski resort to Vancouver, is another great tourist attraction that can be visited all-year round.

If you happen to be in Vancouver over non-winter months, ensure you visit the Grouse Mountain for a memorable hiking experience and have an aerial view of the beautiful skyline that delineates Vancouver. Just nearby, there is the Capilano Suspension Bridge that you must visit. It will allow you to take a relaxing nature walk as you enjoy the calming and soothing winds of Vancouver.

Only in Vancouver do you get to sample mouthwatering delicacies, top among them the salmon. While most restaurants have specialized in making a unique salmon meal, the Salmon House that is adjacent to West Vancouver has an unrivaled delicacy of the same. The restaurant is located to give you an impressive view of the night as you unwind and relax while exercising your taste buds.

A trip to Vancouver will not be complete without bringing back home some collectibles and souvenirs, and thanks to the Gastown, Granville Island and Yaletown Districts, you get an opportunity to find great boutique shopping bargains for just about anything. Having the largest Asian community in North America, Vancouver has a shopping district known as Chinatown just near the other shopping districts, and gives you an opportunity to feel as if you visited Hong Kong.

If time is on your side, you can always take a day trip to Whistler. This is one of the most popular and largest ski resorts in North America, located circa two and a half hours drive away from the city. The drive along the Sea & Ski Highway gives you very beautiful points. Being an all-season resort, Whistler has numerous activities for you to enjoy such as biking, hiking, festivities, of course and great shopping opportunities in the village. As you ride up the Gondola, you will have a very strategic aerial view of the grand Canadian Rockies mountain range.

Vancouver is city worth a visit, if not for any other reason, to see how a major busy city has so much beautiful attractions and a warm and irresistible surrounding. If you happen to land in Vancouver on transit to Alaska or Hawaii, why not spare a day or two to see what this city sandwiched between the sea and mountain have in store for you.

The Allure of Avignon

housands of Britons make the trip to France every year to experience a bit of continental glamour. Whether it's a quick jaunt to Calais to get away from the UK, a romantic weekend soaking up the culture of Paris or a fortnight in the south soaking up the sun, France has it all.

As well as holidaymakers many people leave the country to set up home in southern France. While some worry about the cultural and linguistic differences, others fully embrace them. Those who like familiarity will be keen to know that there is much in the Avignon region that is reminiscent of what's going on back in Britain.

The Festival d'Avignon, for example, is a huge multi-arts celebration and has been likened to the Edinburgh Festival that takes place annually at the end of summer. With various performances ranging from music, drama and comedy, the festival boasts much of France – and Europe's – hottest talent. Since its first days in 1947, the French festival has grown and grown in size over the years.

Like in Edinburgh, when the main festival is preceded by an International Film Festival, the Festival d'Avignon similarly plays host to the work of some of the best directors and studios across the globe. Although much in the shadow of the Cannes Film Festival, Avignon still draws a huge crowd of film buffs every year.

This festival is not the only entertainment attraction in Avignon. For those not so keen on the arts, but more interested in sitting back and relaxing, the city in Provence offers some excellent wine and some typically mouth-watering treats such as pastries and baguettes. With its year-long sunshine, there aren't many places better to enjoy a glass of red with locally produced cheese and bread.

It’s this relaxed atmosphere and enjoyment of the simple pleasures in life that makes the south of France such an attractive retirement home for thousands of British workers looking for a change of scenery to enjoy their work-free days. As well as sitting back and enjoying life, there are also plenty of chances to get out and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful landscapes as opportunities to hike, play golf or go horse riding are plentiful.

After taking the train to Avignon from London or any major city in France, tourists and potential residents are faced with many choices of what to do with their time in Provence.

The Catacombs of Rome

As beautiful as the ancient city of Rome is, like any city, it has its darker secrets and, if you're hoping to discover one or two of these, you better have a strong gut! The city of Rome has around 40 such 'secrets' - ones that have been discovered, anyway - hidden away in the city's underground passageways and the faint of heart need not apply for a tour!

The Catacombs of Rome are ancient burial places that run beneath the very streets of the city itself. For miles beneath the sunny streets of the Italian capital, crypts and stone graves are piled in alongside one another in dark, claustrophobic passageways - some of which are open for the public to explore. So if you think you're brave enough to forget the warming sun shining down on the city's pleasant streets and head underground to another world entirely, a trip to the catacombs could be for you.

Like many cities in former times, Rome found that its size was inadequate for containing the sheer volume of bodies that were piling up within its walls - many of the persecuted Christians that the Romans felt necessary to bury in secret. The catacombs began in the 2nd Century as a place where these dead could be buried while remaining within the city limits but, today, have lain abandoned for centuries. However, they are available for exploration and guided tours among some of the miles of hidden tunnels are available for the brave of heart and morbidly curious, where you can discover a whole other side to Rome's sunny way of life.

Of course, there's a lot more to the catacombs than meets the eye. Since their rediscovery, the catacombs have helped historians further their knowledge of early Christian art enormously and many examples of artwork and carvings can be seen on tours. You can take in incredible paintings, sculptures, carvings and frescoes that date back hundreds of years and breathe in a true sense of history in these long-forgotten tunnels. At least, unlike the catacombs' permanent residents, you have the chance to escape the darkness at the end of the tour and come back up for fresh air and daylight!

Visiting the catacombs is an unforgettable experience that will set you dreaming of spooky tunnels all night after checking into one of the hotels in Rome - so put on a brave face and get ready to explore part of Rome's more frightening history.

Fantastic Holidays in Johannesburg

Although not the most popular tourist destination in South Africa, Johannesburg's fame is continuing to grow as it opens its doors more and more frequently to international visitors hoping to learn more about the city and South Africa through exciting exploration.

Over the years, Johannesburg has realised that there is a lot to be gained from tourism and has therefore worked hard to develop many fantastic attractions that offer tourists the opportunity to explore, learn and enjoy this enigmatic city. From in-depth and fascinating museums to huge sports stadiums that are frequently packed with tourists and locals alike taking in an exciting game of football or cricket, Johannesburg has a lot to offer.

When it comes to museums, the largest of South Africa's cities has an impressive collection. The Johannesburg Art Gallery houses 14 galleries stocked with 17th century Dutch artwork, 18th and 19th century British paintings and plenty of classic and contemporary South African art that will enlighten visitors as to the artistic development of this incredible country. Similarly, the Museum Africa opens the country up to tourists and helps them to explore South Africa's past and present, discovering just what it means to be South African for many of the locals.

If you like your museums with a little more bang for your buck, a great family day out can be had at the AECI Dynamite Factory Museum. As its title suggests, the museum focuses on the history of all things explosive and, thanks to its location in the hundred-year-old residence of a mining official, their impact on the world of mining in particular.

There are plenty of other museums to take in, such as the Adler Museum of Medicine, the Apartheid Museum, the James Hall Transport Museum and the Origins Centre Museum, the latter of which displays plenty of examples of African rock art - and many more.

Of course, there's a lot more to Johannesburg than museums and sports stadiums. Simply strolling through the city centre will give you an idea of what living in this bustling metropolis is like and you can be sure that you'll be made to feel welcome in any of the bars and restaurants you visit. Enjoy chatting with the locals in comfortable settings at one of the city's myriad bars and you'll soon discover that Johannesburg is a city as friendly as it is enigmatic - and one that will enthral you from the moment you arrive on your flights to Johannesburg to the moment you leave.

Disclaimer: The information contained within this article is the opinion of the author and is intended purely for information and interest purposes only. It should not be used to make any decisions or take any actions. Any links are included for information purposes only.

Kenya Safari Tour – The Best Place to Enjoy Vacations

Most of us like to see animals and feel crazy about them. Watching animals in wildlife sanctuaries could be adventurous to any one, and if it is Kenya safari it becomes more than anything. Kenya safari tour can give you a real experience of wildlife. The tour offers you a vast landscape of beautiful animals grazing and playing. You may get a chance to see in deep jungle, which is thrilling desire of most tourists. Tourist feel like they are part of wildlife, safari tour gives you a very close experience of watching animals. A tour of Kenya can help you recapture the lost memories of childhood days and makes you relish for all the time of vacation.

Kenya safari is the most realistic tour of any wildlife and fulfills your wild desires. One can see animals in their natural habitat. It would be of great interest to see a roaring lion, running rhinos, beautiful herd of deer, the tour is educational to kids and interesting to adults. Safari tours are not recommended to kids however big kids can take part in this adventurous and thrilling safari. One of the most adventurous part of safari tour in Kenya is hot air balloon, which can be enjoyed at several place, masai mara, mara safari club fig tree camp are the best place relish this wonderful balloon. This tour is very popular but highly expensive.

Kenya is still considered as the best place for a safari tour in the world. It is the only the country which gives you real satisfaction of safari tour and meeting with wild giants.
In Kenya, you will get some of the best hotels and modern facility that adds few more stars in your cap of safari tour. Apart from this there are many skilled people who are professional guide and help you with all respect of your tour to safari. The country is known for some of its national parks Masai Mara, Tsavo, Amboseli, and Lake Nakuru.

While you plan your Kenya tour, make it well organized. Climate matters a lot, best time for safari tour is October month. There are many travel company which could help you on your safari tour, but choosing a good one is really a smart job.

Explore The History Of Naples

Naples in Italy has a history like no other. This is one of the main reasons why so many people are entranced by it from the moment they first set foot inside the city itself.

When you realise that the city was founded back in the eighth century BC, it is understandable why there should be so much in the way of history here. It is an old city – few cities in the world can claim to be older than this one.

Mount Vesuvius is not far to the east of Naples, and the city has been affected to some extent by various eruptions over the centuries. Indeed you can see the immense volcano from certain high points in the city – and an impressive sight it is as well.

The centre of the city is so full of historic importance that it has been granted the status of becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to see such eye catching structures as the Piazza del Plebiscito, which is a huge square in the city and has the Royal Palace right by it. The Royal Palace itself takes up one side of the square.

Be sure you also pay a visit to the Naples National Archaeological Museum, because it contains many different slices of history associated with the city. There are many delights here which date back to Roman and ancient Greek times, so you will need much of the day to find all that is available.

Of particular note are the various exhibits which relate to the lost cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. These were lost when Mount Vesuvius erupted with disastrous results back in AD 79, losing thousands of lives in the process.

But there is also another side to Naples, and this takes you back through history in a very different way indeed. You can actually descend beneath the city to see the many tunnels and hidden secrets it possesses. If you head to the Trieste e Trento square you can meet up with guides on certain days of the week to go and see these tunnels for yourself. These are signs of a forgotten Roman city, and they also provided much needed shelter when Naples was repeatedly hit by bombing during the Second World War.

Spaccanapoli is also well worth seeing if you head back up to the surface and search for the straightest street in the city. To call it a single street is actually slightly misleading, because it actually consists of a few of them linked together, but it is quite stunning and has many different stalls and delights to search out.

Visit the Daintree Rainforest in Tropical North Queensland

The Daintree Rainforest is one of the most popular attractions for visitors to Australia's Tropical North Queensland region. Along with being on the World Heritage list it is a place like no other, older than the Amazon, having an unending ecological and historical significance. The World Heritage listing is due to it's importance in the history of the world and our understanding of that history.

In addition to all the historical significance it is just a cool place to go see and wander about. It is a big place with the lushness of the foilage going further than you can view. Daintree has a great location, being approximately forty five minutes from Port Douglas, and one and a half hours away from Cairns. No matter where you stay in the TNQ you won't be far from the rainforest.

Daintree accommodations are very varied and cater to all budgets. There are some ultra modern spas with private cabins nestled in the rainforest as well as the incredibly beautiful Daintree Riverview Caravan Park. These modest accommodations are offered at an incredible price and offer spectacular views of the Daintree River. It is a great place to stay if you are a true nature lover or on a limited budget.

An amazing part of this wilderness is how the rainforest goes right to the Great Barrier Reef, which is of course another World Heritage site. In the Daintree Rainforest the plants are really special, some of them having been about the same as they were on earth back one hundred million years past. In this eco system there are some angiosperms considered the first flowering plants on earth are still alive there. If you want you can find a number of guided tours or self guided tours to help you learn and know where to wander.

Having an unending number of attractions and natural wonders in the Tropical North Queensland is amazing but some of the very best sites are those coming out of the earth, all the natural habitats and ecologies. They are all full of their own special splendor and you will experience it no matter where you lay your head and no matter what your budget is, there is something here for everyone to enjoy.

In your search toward natural peace and quiet make sure to click on tropicalnorthqueensland.com to discover this region. To experience the tropical forests and national parks click on tropicalnorthqueensland.com to find tnq hotels or a port douglas accommodation. There are representatives available if you have questions.

Author : Jen Barnum

Enjoying Glasgow Film Festival

One of Britain's fastest growing film festivals, the Glasgow Film Festival is rapidly becoming one of the most popular events to visit in Glasgow. Visitors should expect a series of premieres exclusive to the Glasgow Film Festival as well as a series of appearances from film personalities and stars. A whole plethora of new films from all across the world is also to be expected, as amateur and seasoned film makers alike flock to the Scottish city, bringing with them their screen masterpieces.

In 2009 audiences at the film festival grew to as large as 28,000 people, helped in part by the premiere of In the Loop, Armando Iannucci’s popular creation.

2010 will see the sixth annual Glasgow Film Festival, which, according to critics is billed to be bigger and better than any of the previous years. The festival is set to open with the premiere of Jean-Perre Jeunet's Micmacs, featuring new work from talents such as Todd Solondz, Drew Barrymore and Hayao Miyazaki.

Some of the most popular strands to enjoy include 'Best of British', 'Frightfest', 'Glasgow Youth Film Festival', 'Stranger Than Fiction' and 'The State of Independents' although there are numerous other strands which each year attract thousands of fans.

The 2010 film festival is expected to show more than 120 features during the 10 day event. Among the celebrities expected to appear are Star Wars actor James Earl Jones and Scottish director Kevin MacDonald.

Being in Glasgow, the festival is also expected to pay tribute to some of the best Scottish films and directors and 2010 will see the works of Oscar-winner Tilde Swinton shown on the big screen. Fans of Swinton will have the opportunity to enjoy a premiere of her latest work I am Love as well as a unique remake of Bad Lieutenant, a 1992 crime film.

First time visitors to the event may feel slightly overwhelmed by the number of films to choose from however the Glasgow Film Festival committee have kindly compiled helpful programmes based on taste and genre.

A trip to the Glasgow Film Festival also offers the chance to discover Glasgow, one of the UK's most vibrant and interesting cities. Some of the most interesting attractions to discover in Glasgow include The Burrell Collection, Glasgow's Gallery of Modern Art and the Glasgow Science Centre as well as of course Glasgow's bustling city centre.

Finally after a long day of exploring the fine city of Glasgow or enjoying one of the many films on offer, it's time to head back to one of the many Glasgow hotels or guest houses for a good night's sleep, before getting up the next morning to do it all again.

Phillip Island in Victoria Has Something to Offer Everyone

Approximately 87 miles from Melbourne, Phillip Island is a small piece of paradise with a huge number of things to do. Over 3.5 million tourists book Phillip Island accommodation each year, and for good reason. With unparalleled climate, surfing, and motor racing, the whole family is sure to have a great time.

The temperatures are equally agreeable, and tend to stick around 20 degrees Celsius for much of the year, dipping down to about 15 during the winter. For southern Australia, that’s quite a reasonable temperature for that time of year.

Phillip Island is famous for its Little Penguins, a rare sight anywhere else in the world but a common occurrence on the island. These cute creatures match their name, standing only about 17 inches tall and weighing just two pounds, which make them the smallest of all penguins. They’re also colored somewhat differently, with a dark blue and white tinge. Visitors to the Phillip Island Nature Park are blessed with the opportunity to see these majestic (though tiny) animals in their own environment. There are a ton of other animals as well, including wombats, kangaroos, and koalas. These native Australian creatures are sure to wow.

Most people know that surfing is one of Australia’s most popular sports, but they perhaps aren’t as familiar with Phillip Island’s reputation as one of the least crowded spots. The water temperature is perfect, and waves are generally quite reliable, which means that you can expect decent surf throughout the calendar year.

You’ll also want to check out the Phillip Island Circuit, home to a racing heritage that dates back to 1928. Even if a race isn’t on during your visit, you can stop by to tour the Circuit, which includes an interactive visitor’s centre, go-kart driving, and an interactive game room.

The Australian Grand Prix was first held in 1928, and in the years since a variety of exciting races have been staged on the island, including V8 Supercars and the Superbike World Championship. There are plans in the works for additions to the current track, which should include a golf course as well as additional options for accommodation. In time, this is likely to become one of Australia’s premier tourist destinations.

The 45 minute guided tour will take you through the history of motor racing in Australia, and you’ll enjoy up and close personal views of all of the big attractions, including the Control Tower, Pit Garages, and the winner’s podium. After all of this excitement, you’ll likely need a good meal to recharge your batteries, so head to the Champions Café for a satisfying cold beverage and some tasty food.

Top Day Trips from Barcelona

With a city as beautiful as Barcelona, you may well wonder why you would ever want to leave. But as fantastic as Barcelona is, there are so many great places to visit nearby that are all within just a few hours’ travel from the city. So next time you head to Barcelona, why not explore a bit further afield by visiting one of the following locations?

1. Montserrat

Montserrat Mountain is an easy trip by train from Barcelona, with a number of trains heading here from the city each day. It is also one of the most popular day trips from Barcelona, and there are a number of organized tours operating here if you’d prefer.Montserrat is an attractive, and quite strange-looking, mountain. The best way to see it is on the cable car, from which you will be able to admire the strange and attractive rock pillars on your way up. At the top you will find the ninth-century monastery, from where spectacular views can be enjoyed. If you’re feeling adventurous you should also take advantage of the great trekking opportunities on offer.

2. Tarragona

Tarragona is a great option as a day trip for anyone who is a bit of a history buff. Here the main attraction is the spectacular Roman ruins which will be well worth the trip on their own. Tarragona is just over an hour away from Barcelona so it is easy to reach, and you could travel here by train or bus. When you arrive you will find the remains of the ancient amphitheatre, but perhaps of greater interest is the well-preserved aqueduct. There are lots of other important historical remains, and you should also take the opportunity to visit the impressive Gothic cathedral.

3. Figueres

Admittedly, the overwhelming reason that most people decide to visit Figueres is to visit the world-famous Dalí Museum, or the Teatre Museu Gala Salvador Dalí. If you are a fan of the painter then this is an absolute must. Dalí was born here and he actually designed the museum himself, which remains his biggest surrealist piece of work. Figueres is just a two-hour train ride from Barcelona, so it’s easy to visit the town in a day. You can also take a guided tour from Barcelona. Apart from the museum it is a pleasant place to spend some time, with plenty of cafes to enjoy and a picturesque Old Town to explore.

4. Girona

Girona is a beautiful medieval city that’s located about one-and-a-half hours from Barcelona if you travel by train. It is a very attractive city and situated on the side of a hill. It is simply a great place to stroll around and admire the architecture, and you’ll be able to enjoy the relative peace in comparison to the big city of Barcelona. There are a number of attractions to visit during your time here, including the Roman Baths, the Cinema Museum, and the attractive Jewish quarter.

5. Salou

Salou is an attractive seaside resort about 92 km from Barcelona. The many splendid beaches attract people from all over the region, but an even greater draw is the Port Aventura theme park. This huge theme park has many fantastic rides, and is a great day out for the whole family. But beyond the theme park, Salou is also a pleasant place to stroll around enjoying the scenery, and you should also head to the Salou Promenade, an attractive landmark that stretches along the coast of Llevant Beach. As it is quite a touristy location there are plenty of amenities here, making it an ideal day trip from Barcelona.

Author : Rob Griggs

Animal Activities For Bristol

Visiting Bristol, even though it is one of the main cities in the United Kingdom, provides a unique opportunity to get close to nature. From Bristol Zoo Gardens to the Blue Reef Aquarium, Bristol provides plenty of ways for you to enjoy some of Britain's best natural activities.

Of all of Bristol's outdoor activities, one of the most famous and indeed the most popular is Bristol Zoo gardens. There - at Bristol Zoo - you can get up close and personal with more than 450 different specifies of animals and see how this nationwide-famous zoo is helping to conserve mammals, insects and amphibians from around the world.

Set within 12 acres of gardens, Bristol Zoo brings together the endangered and the adorable from right across the globe. Visit the primates enjoying themselves in monkey jungle, see the lemur garden or splash around with the penguins and seals over at Seal and Penguin Coast. Some other popular destinations within the zoo include Asiatic Lions, Reptile House, Bug World and Gorilla Island - all of which are guaranteed to provide endless entertainment for all who visit.

If that's not enough for you, why not take a visit to the Blue Reef Aquarium over at Bristol's Harbourside. There you can enjoy a spectacular underwater safari in Bristol's £4million re-development and see showcases of some of the finest marine wildlife from right across the world.
Some of the most popular highlights at this Bristol attraction include a Bristol harbour scene, wood footbridge, corals display, life size recreation of a sunken shop and a sea horse display.

The Blue Reef Aquarium is also currently the only aquarium in the whole of Europe to have its own IMAX cinema. Here, visitors can enjoy marine focused films in 3D on a giant four storey screen.

Just outside of Bristol, on the edge of a beautiful farm lies another of Bristol's popular attractions - Horse World. Established in 1952 in an attempt to save the lives of a number of working horses, the attraction is now one of the leading Equine Charities and one of Bristol's most popular animal attractions.

Those visiting Bristol either for its range of animal-focused attractions or to visit some of Bristol's other popular attractions such as such as Cheddar Caves, the SS Great Britain and Clifton Suspension bridge will be please to know that the city boasts a wide number of Bristol hotels, restaurants and bars to cater for your every need.