‘Vacation’ Category

London 2012 for Animal Lovers

May 10th, 2012 Tushar Mathur

London may be a grey metropolis, but that doesn’t mean that Londoners haven’t found ways to express their love of animals. London’s zoological collections and living zoo’s are amongst the most important and visited the world-over.

CC image from Flickr

1. London Zoo – or the Zoological Society of London

London Zoo is an important player in the global conservation movement. You can see everything on site from giraffes to Komodo Dragons.  There’s even a Friendly Spider Programme where a spider expert and a hypnotherapist will help you overcome your lifelong fear of spiders. The course leaders promise not to scare you – instead you will gain a deeper understanding of your phobias and hopefully by the end of the afternoon you should naturally feel positive feelings towards our six-legged friends. London Zoo also provides a luxury camping experience

2. London Wetlands Centre

This jewel beside the Thames is a 105-acre wildlife park. It’s created from four Victorian-era reservoirs which are dotted with paths, walkways, greenery, and of course, large interconnected pools of water which are home to animals such as kingfishers, sandmartins, sparrowhawks and falcon herons. The centre also offers photography courses and fun pond dipping sessions. It can be reached by Barnes rail station.

3. Kempton Park Race Track

If you love horses, then you can visit the Kempton Park race course, where some of the most historic races of recent times have taken place. The course even has a bar named after one of the biggest equine celebrities of our generation, Kauto Star. On the May the 7th this year there’s even going to be a Mascot Grand National, run by sporting mascots from some of England’s biggest sporting teams. The event is being held to raise money for charity.

4. The Grant Museum of Zoology  

The Grant Museum invite you to visit their collection of 67,000 animal specimens. The collection contains mainly skeletons from rare and extinct animals. Although the museum is smaller than the Natural History Museum, the Grant Museum actually has the most specimens of its kind on show in the whole of London. It’s located in the heart of Bloomsbury, which means that other unmissable museums like the British Museum are a short walk away.

Other ways to see animals whilst in London would be to get involved with a conservation effort, or visit one of London’s many city farms or riding schools. We’ve purposely left the Natural History Museum off of the main list (it’s such a huge and valuable institution and we’re confident that you won’t miss it) and we thought we’d give a bit more kudos to the Grant Museum this time around.

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Best Winter Vacations in the United States

March 15th, 2012 Tushar Mathur

Best Winter Vacations in the United States

Winter comes along and everyone is all cozy at home trying their best to stay warm. But what better time to go on a family vacation or even alone when things are quiet and unhurried. In the United States, you can either go to a place that is colder than where you stay or warmer if you so desire.

Let’s check out the places that are considered warmer first:

The Hawaiian Islands: These islands need no introduction. They are the very epitome of the holiday lifestyle with sun, sand and surf everywhere all through the year. Not to mention the clear waters that surround these numerous islands and are ripe for swimming, scuba diving and surfing. Imagine spending your winter lying on a beach in your shorts or bikini instead of being bunched up in bundles of warm clothing. This is the life and everyone’s invited! Hawaii has many islands which offer something special by itself. You could either take a tour of these islands or stay at one resort and soak in the good life leisurely.

Other more obvious choices for warmer climes in the winter months are the beaches of Florida where you could visit the Florida Keys, Laguna Beach in California and also other places like Lousiana where you’ll find the Grand Isle located in the Gulf of Mexico. Galveston Island in Texas is also noted for its galleries, antique shops and much more. You will also find waterparks, themed museums and historical buildings which are a delight to explore. Those interested in marine history will also find this place fascinating.

Now that we’ve covered a few of the warm places, lets plunge right into the cold and fun-to-be places in America:

Cold Places to Vacation in the United States during Winter

Since we’re talking cold places to vacation in winter, we have a huge variety of places to choose from. You should choose your vacation spot based on what you are planning to do once you get there. While the young crowd would find physical activities like skiing, hiking and what not, the older among you would just like to lay back with friends and family and enjoy the hospitality that a comfortable lodge or inn can afford you along with the great amenities that come with it.

Almost every state in the United States has ski resorts but you need to go to an exceptional location if you want some unforgettable memories.

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Are Theme Parks for Everyone? Choose Other Activities for your Friends.

February 20th, 2012 Tushar Mathur

You are very excited to visit a theme park. That’s why you invited all your friends to book a ticket. However, on the day of your visit, a friend of yours is unhappy.

Is this scenario familiar to you?

If it is, I’m sure that you don’t want that to happen again. Just so you know, theme parks are not for everyone. You can’t force your friends to love it. To be honest, there’s nothing wrong with that. But for you to be able to spare yourself from that experience, I have some tips which you might use.

Ask your friends first. Even if you are very excited to plan this, you have to get your group’s consent. It would be better if you let them vote. If the majority wants to visit a theme park, then so be it. If the majority wants other activities, then fine. You can adjust, right?

I believe that some people get bored in amusement parks. Perhaps, they are afraid of rides. That’s the reason they don’t enjoy these kinds of visits. You can’t blame them. It’s what they are and you have to accept it.

Don’t force anyone to come with you. You really want to do it. Hence, you are forcing your friends. But that’s a big No! If you force them, there’s a huge chance that they won’t enjoy the amusement park. You should just invite your friends who are eager and willing to join you. Otherwise, your whole plan will backfire.

Choose a theme park that offers different activities. If your friends who are not fond of amusement parks still join you, ensure that there are other things which they can do in the venue. Most parks have concerts and different games. Rides might not be for them but I’m sure they will love other things.

The bottom line is, you have to remember that people are very different. This goes for trips and vacation ideas. Before you plan anything, you must know if most of your friends will enjoy it. It will not do you good if you are the only one who’s enjoying your vacation.

For sure, you can think of other activities which can be fun and exciting. Be creative as possible. Even if you don’t leave your homes, you can still have a great grill party or a sing – a – long party. Who knows, this can be better than the heart stopping rides from theme parks.

 

Kim Bookman is a groovy mother of 2 and she loves visiting amusement parks. However, she wants to use these Theme Park discounts to save money.

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Theme Parks that are Appropriate for your Kids

January 25th, 2012 Tushar Mathur

There are a lot of theme parks all over the world. Some have extreme rides, others have walk in adventures. But you should remember that theme parks are made for kids. You have to base your chosen park according to your kid’s age.

I will provide you with a short list of theme parks perfect for toddlers, kids and teens.

For kids 10 and below, here are the best amusement parks for them:

Legoland California. As a kid, I doubt that you haven’t played Lego. It was so much fun to stack one piece to another and be able to create your own creature, castle or world. Now, you can take your kids to a theme park created for this wonderful toy. You’ll see massive structures made by none other than Lego pieces.

Sea World San Diego. Who doesn’t want to know how water creatures behave? This is a good place for your kids. It’s not only fun, it’s also educational. There are a lot of interactive activities perfect for the whole family. Yes, a lot of people say that the ticket is quite expensive. But believe me, you are putting value on your money if you visit this place.  

Sesame Place. A lot of people are not familiar with the Sesame Place in Philadelphia. But you should know that it’s a theme park that you must include in your bucket list. What I like about this theme park is that all the characters are well known to your kids. With that, they can have more fun and they will become more interactive.

And for your teens, you might want to try these:

Universal Orlando. This is the best place for your teens who wanted to become a star. Do you know that they allow you to shoot some scenes? And they will do that with professional help. This is better than taking your kids to childish theme parks. It will just bore them.

Disney World.  They have fun rides that will suit the taste of your teenage kids. They need to try the Space Mountain which is the original coaster of the park. Also, there are other heart pumping rides that your kids will never forget.

There are hundreds of theme parks to choose from. But before you book your tickets, you have to make sure that it’ll fit to your kid’s needs. Carefully plan your upcoming trip so everyone would enjoy.

 

Kim Bookman is a self – confessed thrift spender. If you are like her, you should use this Theme Park coupon before going out with your wonderful kids. There are different offers even for Six Flags Park.

 

 

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Booking A Skiing Holiday

November 30th, 2011 Tushar Mathur

With the New Year fast approaching, your minds may well be turning to thoughts of alpine forests flashing past your goggled eyes, mile high alfresco coffee and late night over priced wine bars followed by a decidedly slippery walk home. That’s right – the skiing season is upon us, huzzah!

Skiing Destinations

So where to go and when? Let’s start close to home. After last year’s poor season in the Alps everyone was hoping for a return to form in 2011-12. While it does seem that it will be a better year than last, the long range predictions seem to be suggesting that it will be colder, but drier than average. All this means that if you are looking for guaranteed white fluffy stuff you may have to go further afield.

In the US for example many are predicting monster snowfalls to rival last year’s record conditions. This is all thanks to the La Nina weather system which is responsible for pushing warm water west from the US west coast across the Pacific. This leads to a colder than normal east Pacific which is swept up by the polar jet stream heading east of the US and can lead to heavy rain (boo!) and heavy snow in mountain regions (yay!).

All this is well and good, but as everyone knows, weathermen are about as reliable as chocolate kettles and when booking your skiing or snowboarding holiday in advance you are always taking a risk that you might have bad conditions.

So where can I go for my skiing holiday?

Many countries around the world boast beautiful snow covered mountains offering an unforgettable skiing experience. France is one of the most popular welcoming thousands of skiers each year. Other countries like Canada, Norway and Sweden, can guarantee long lasting snow conditions and are also popular skiing and snowboarding destinations.

Eastern European countries like Romania, Bulgaria, Slovenia and Slovakia offer well equipped ski resorts and can be much more affordable and less packed than their Western counterparts.

If you plan to take your family skiing this winter the French and Swiss Alps offer a cosy family atmosphere, providing well catered ski chalets for families to recreate the comfort of their own home. If you are booking with a bunch of friends and are looking for a great choice of entertainment then Andorra could be just the place, as it is famous for its nightlife.

Don’t forget your toothbrush!

You have paid your money and it’s time to get ready for your trip. You’re psyched and raring to go. You have your board, skis, warm clothes and oodles of cash to spend in the bars and restaurants in your resort. But wait; is there something that you have forgotten?

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Portugal – Silver Coast. A taste of life and hospitality

November 22nd, 2011 Tushar Mathur

All of this is now less than an hour drive from Lisbon International airport along the new A8 motorway, linking the vibrant capital of Portugal with historic Oporto in the North. As there is also a proposed new international airport to be located at OTA, this little known region is opening its doors to the outside world. For decades the Algarve has been the only realistic location for overseas buyers to enjoy the unique hospitality of the Portuguese, on the famous Portuguese beaches but prices there have put it out of reach for most. Now we are pleased to invite you to experience the heart of Portugal – a secret we can all share.A region for lifeExploring the tranquil towns, villages and countryside of this beautiful region will confirm to you that here is a place that genuinely has the best of both worlds. Whilst offering a life of rural calm amidst the spectacular scenery, at the same time it is perfectly equipped with access to all the modern facilities of transport, healthcare, education and leisure that make life a pleasure for all generations. The Western Region enjoys entertainments and events throughout the year: concerts, art exhibitions, the Torres carnival – ‘the most Portuguese event in Portugal’, the Caldas da Rainha ceramics and fruit fairs, the Bombarral wine festival, Peniche’s Festas da Nuestra Senhora da Boa Viagem, the Montejunto popular festival (Cadaval), Alenquer’s Feira da Ascensao, festivals in Sobral, Monte Agraco and Arruda dos Vinhos, Feiras da Cebola e das Tasquinhas and hundreds more fairs, festivals and popular gatherings. The region has many hotels with superb facilities and innumerable restaurants, bars and lively venues which ensure that one’s first visit to the Western region is never the last. For golf enthusiasts the Western Region is the new destination in Portugal. Golf Courses at Praia d’el Rey (18 holes)and Rio Maior (18 holes) are complemented by 9-hole courses at Consolação and Porto Novo – Bom Sucesso and Perola da Lagoa 18-hole courses are actually already under construction and the brand new project of the 18-hole course of Foz do Arelho, which will be the hugest should begin within the year 2007. The natural abundance of the area is enhanced by beautiful fine-sanded beaches, where the sands shimmer like silver, at Santa Cruz, Porto Novo, Areia Branca, S. Bernardino, Consolação, Peniche, Baleal, Foz do Arelho and Salir do Porto. Local crafts can be found in Peniche, which is notable for its lace, and in Caldas da Rainha, which is one of the most important centres for ceramics in Portugal.

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Top Ten Things To Do In Australia

November 16th, 2011 Tushar Mathur

When you visit Australia you are visiting one of the friendliest countries in the world. A land of breathtaking scenery surrounded by the sea, Australia is a trip you will want to make again and again. Here are the top then things to do there.

Bungy Jumping. For some reason Australians are fascinated with this sport and travelers who are brave may want to join in. Journey to Queenstown to the Kawarau Bridge and sign up with one of the expert bungy jumping tour companies to take your turn. For adventure travelers!

Sydney. One of the most interesting cities in Australia, take time to tour around Sydney and see the beautiful opera house, Sydney Bridge, Sydney Harbor, the aquarium, fish market, Royal Botanical Gardens, and Bondi Beach.

Whitsundays. More often than not on the covers of international travel magazines, the dozens of pristine Whitsundays islands hovering over the Great Barrier Reef are some of the most beautiful tropical destinations on earth. Sail into the bay of an isolated island and make it your own. Snorkel. Fish. Go beach combing. You will be in paradise.

Hunter Valley Wineries. Located just outside of Sydney, the Hunter Valley is home to Australia’s wine industry. It makes a wonderful day trip. Rent a car or take an organized tour bus of the wineries for tastings and stops for gourmet meals.

Blue Mountains National Park. Nature enthusiasts will want to take a trip just outside of Sydney to Blue Mountains Park to visit the rain forest and the Three Sisters stone formation. Look to the specialized tour companies for adventure tours of this popular national park or of you are feeling brave get out on some of the world’s best roads on your motorbike. Just make sure you’ve got your motorcycle insurance sorted!

Ayers Rock in the Outback. A most spectacular rock formation that glows red in the setting and rising sun, Ayers Rock is also a holy site for the native Aboriginal people of Australia. A tour company specializing in Ayers Rock would be a great way to visit this amazing natural phenomenon.

Gold Coast. Australia’s answer to Miami Beach, the glitzy Gold Coast stretches along beautiful golden sand beaches lined with high rise hotels, condominiums, shops and an endless array of restaurants. This is a very popular tourist destination which is well serviced by resorts and major hotels.

Byron Bay. Surfers and outdoor enthusiasts flock to Bryon Bay for the waves and beach culture. Wellness enthusiasts come for the vibe.

Adelaide. Food lovers will be thrilled to visit Adelaide Central Market.

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Compare And Book Cheap Package Holidays Abroad To Save Money

November 10th, 2011 Tushar Mathur
Dubai holidays will take you to the southern shores of the Persian Gulf on the Arabian Peninsular. The most popular of the seven Emirates, Dubai is an eclectic mix of the old and new. Dubais accommodation options are limitless and suit all types from businessmen to families or groups of friends. Imagine sharing the experience of a fantastic apartment on the 8th Wonder of the World, Jumeirah Palm Island with your friends and family or try the fabulous Dubai Marina with its wonderful Marina Walk terraced area of restaurants and cafes and gorgeous shops.

Cheap holidays usually obtain during before and after summer. This is not anymore the peak season so aside from cheap expenses you will not experience so much crowd and avail all the complete and excellent services including flights , hotel accommodations therefore you will enjoy and appreciate the vacation calmly. Cheap holidays going to Turkey make it possible for you to visit a part of Turkey and get you educated as well with the history of Turkey.

You would visit the place of Marmaris, which was ruled by Alexander the Great. Cheap holidays are usually very variable in terms of prices and you can find them in a variety of places online and offline. You should be able to get some great deals at the moment.

If you base what you do on inaccurate information, you might be unpleasantly surprised by the consequences. Make sure you get the whole cheap holidays story from informed sources.

Cheap all inclusive holidays to Madrid are always fun. There is so much to do and see. Cheap holidays will guide us and even book our holidays for us to have a hassle free holiday experience. Holidays in Santorini are one of a kind. Cheap holidays provide important information for our holiday outings. You could read and go over different holiday destinations as well as the ways on how to enjoy the holiday.

Travelling Cheap will kindly decline this offer and choose Morocco this season. Travellers looking to go will find that cheap resorts are the premiere source for complete and equitable info. Attempting to get precisely what you need, or what you believe you would like, will most likely be a pricey offer, in travel and in life. Travellers should make sure to compute all these costs so that they do not end up spending really low but on a less convenient hotel.

Beaches – A favorite among many on holiday the beaches of Costa de Almeria are great and inexpensive fun for the entire family.

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Egypt

October 31st, 2011 Tushar Mathur
Anyone who claims that the country – 97% of the territory, which constitute the desert, attracting large groups of tourists simply unrealistic, he never was in Egypt! Egypt – the pearl of the world culture will charm you and your touch unimaginable contrast entertainment. Holidays to Egypt include touring the most ancient pyramids, which hide the great secrets of the pharaohs. Fascinates silhouettes “magic triangle”, dilapidated temple complexes Valley of the Kings and noisy bazaars in the eastern neighborhood with comfortable and inexpensive hotels – palaces, amazing sandy beaches and picturesque deserts beckon tourists from all over the world. Cradle of civilization – Egypt, affects their ability to grow in step with the times, delivering guests to the country estate unforgettable pleasures. Travelers fall in love in fabled beautiful coral reefs of the Red Sea, inviting them to commit diving in Egypt, or to try windsurfing in Egypt and the Libyan Desert attracts huge fans jeep safari in Egypt. Relax in Egypt, specifically in Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada, Dahab, Safaga, Cairo, Alexandria and other cities “of the country pyramids, its exotic charm and you will remember for life.

The capital: Cairo

The largest city: Cairo

Population: 2007 estimate – 80,335,036
1996 census – 59,312,914

Holidays: 1 January – New Year, January 7 – Christmas (Old Calendar), April 25 – Sinai Liberation Day, May 1 – Labor Day, July 23 – Revolution Day, October 6 – Armed Forces Day, Sham El Nessim (Spring festival), Islamic New Year, Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday, Ramadan Feast, Sacrifice Feast

Geography: Egypt is country in north-eastern Africa and the Sinai Peninsula. Egypt borders Libya to the west, Sudan to the south and the Gaza Strip and Israel to the east. The northern coast borders the Mediterranean Sea; the eastern coast borders the Red Sea.

Climate: Temperatures average between 27 °C and 32 °C in summer, and up to 43 °C on the Red Sea coast. Temperatures average between 13 °C and 21 °C in winter. Egypt does not receive much rainfall except in the winter months. The Khamaseen is a wind that blows from the south in Egypt in spring, bringing sand and dust, and sometimes raises the temperature in the desert to more than 38 °C.

Time zone: EET (UTC+2)
Summer (DST) EEST (UTC+3)

Official language: Arabic
Spoken Language: Egyptian Arabic

The currency: Egyptian pound


English-Egyptian Phrasebook

Hello Salam Alaikom
Goodbye Ma’ El Salama
Sorry Asif
Thank you Shukran
Yes Aiwa
No La
Good night Tesbah Ala Khir


My name is … Ana esmi…
What is your name? Esmak eih?
Where can I change money? Fen el sirafa?
Help me please. Mumkin tesaedni.
How much does it cost? Bekam di?

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Travel to Austria

October 15th, 2011 Tushar Mathur

Austria is a vibrant country and is one of the famous destinations in the eyes of the tourists from all parts of the globe. Austria is a landlocked alpine country in Central Europe bordered by Switzerland to the west, Germany and Czech Republic to the north, Slovakia and Hungary to the east and Slovenia and Italy to the south. It is also called as the winter sports capital of Europe. It is one of the world’s leading skiing regions and it is also noted for its historical buildings, outstanding museums and galleries, and awe-inspiring mountain scenery.

Let us know this tantalizing country.

1.Weather
Summers are warm and pleasant with cool nights while the winters are sunny, with reliable and frequent snowfalls. In short there is a changing weather throughout the year.

2.Culture
Austria is a rich cultural and traditional country and can be greatly seen in the architectural buildings and artistic activities. This place is famous for the birthplace of the famous personalities in the world history such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven etc.

3.Attractions

  • There are various museums such as Natural History Museum, the Museum of Modern Art and the Museumsquartier.
  • Do see the Ferris Wheel in the Prater amusement park. Other places worth visiting are St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Chapel of the Hofburg, the Parliament and the Votive Church.
  • Graz city is the famous city to explore on foot. Other attractions are Landesmuseum Johanneum, surrounding the Alte Galerie’s gothic paintings, the Neue Galerie in the Herbenstrein Palace, the Cathedral and the Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II.
  • You can also enjoy skiing on the tallest snow covered mountain of Grossglockner in Carinthia. Also experience Hohe Tauern National Park is one of the large peaceful mountain environments in Europe for trekking; and the glaciers of the Silvretta mountain ranges drop noticeably to Lake Constance with its abundant vegetation.
  • Never miss to go to a well-preserved medieval city of Retz, which possesses subterranean wine-cellars, medieval city walls, windmills and a Dominican church. You can also explore Austria’s most mountainous province, with forests, pastures, valleys, mountain lakes, alpine villages, churches and castles.
  • The overwhelming and magical sight of the Eisriesenwelt in Werfen has ice caves with great ice sculptures all the year round.
  • Also go to the last protected area of European rainforest in the Donau-Auen National Park which is a floodplain area of wilderness that cultivates a diversity of plants and animals.
  • You can enjoy the Lederhosen Festival in Windischgarsten, Salzburg festival provides a varied music concerts.

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