Related Content

Showing posts with label Attractions. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Attractions. Show all posts

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Amsterdam City Guide for Travelers

Amsterdam, with a culture rich in history, trade, art and natural beauty will welcome any tourist with a warm heart and an eagerness to see more. This thriving and diverse climate offers a touch of class, entertainment and a cosmopolitan flair that is sure to leave long lasting memories. From the many museums to the restaurants, canals and gardens Amsterdam will not pose a problem for your itinerary. To the contrary, you may be looking for ways to cut back from the daily exploring in order to enjoy all the offerings of your luxurious boutique hotel room.

The museums in Amsterdam are plentiful and the works displayed are diverse and rare finds. In 2009, two more important museums will be cutting the grand opening ribbon. The Hermitage Amsterdam and the Stedelijk Museum. The Hermitage Museum of Amsterdam will be the sister museum to the world-renowned museum in Saint Petersburg of the same name. Works by famous Artist from Amsterdam, such as Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Mondriaan, Vermeer and Appel will be coming home in 2009. The exhibits will include “The Colours of the Night” by Van Gogh, on display at the Van Gogh museum and the world-famous Starry Night on loan from new York. While these are impressive, you will find over fifty mind boggling museums where you will ogle collections in modern art, press, film, theatre and photography mediums. If you are looking for a rare and exotic theme, a visit to the sex, erotica, hash and torture museums are a must.

Discover the natural beauty of Amsterdam. Botanical Gardens are plentiful, the architecture is splendid and the canals quite lovely. The canal system, while stunning, also provides a glimpse into history and what made this fishing capitol into the tourist Mecca and trade center that it is today. The streets are lined with historical architecture, beautifully designed, and behind the facades is a city reminiscing on a by-gone age. You can enjoy the Plantage at the water architectural walk or learn about the more than 6,000 species at the Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam. On every turn, down every street and in every window, there will be a view or mirrored image into one of the most vibrant cities and cultural capitols in the world.

Your taste buds are in for a delightful surprise when you travel to Amsterdam. With over 1,000 restaurants’ ranging from Argentinean to Vegetarian, pricy to inexpensive this city caters to all tastes and budgets. Since Amsterdam represents every nation’s cuisine faithfully, the possibilities are endless. You can find Thai, Indian, European, French and Dutch dishes. You can choose from seafood, steak, traditional café’s or fast food establishments. While most restaurants’ close at around 10p or 22:00, the night pubs, brown café’s, bars and takeaways are readily available to the midnight snacker.

While there is so much to do by day, Amsterdam still competes with that luxury hotel bed by night. The nightlife echo’s the robust and pulsating attitude of the locals, and caters to the tourists that come into town. You will find Lounge Bars, Cinema’s, Coffee Shops, Clubs, Night Theatres, cozy Pubs and intimate dinners and dances with themed hot spots open until 5:00a. This cosmopolitan city never sleeps! Browse around the red light district where the restaurants will be packed, the dance floors hopping and the streets crowded until the sun is nearly up. In the United States, they say what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. Amsterdam is no exception, with it’s rich and diverse night culture, the same would be true for this en vogue city. There are a couple of rules however. Never buy any drugs from the street. Soft drugs are legal and available in most street side shops. Also, never take a camera into the Red Light district. Remember that prostitution is legal and brothels are readily available. While you do not have to partake in such an eccentric past time, this is definitely a once in a lifetime attraction that you will only find in the after-hours streets of Amsterdam.

The I Amsterdam Card is a must have for any Amsterdam explorer. You will get access to over 30 museums for free, a transportation ticket and vouchers for discounts at restaurants and attractions. This card is available in unit hours, giving you the flexibility to use it as you need while on vacation in this spirited city. The I Amsterdam card for 72 hours is only 58 Euros, so it’s not hard to see how this card can offer deep savings.

Amsterdam is full of life and energy. Taking a hot bath in your boutique hotel will be much needed after a rendezvous on the streets in Holland. The Luxury and Boutique Hotels are plentiful and despite the taboo style nightlife, the class you will find in Amsterdam is next to none. Relax in your hotel, take a stroll around the museums, have a five star brunch or dance the night away. No matter what your age, nationality or gender, this city has something to offer to you.

Hong Kong City Guide for the Traveler

Hong Kong is a destination that will please any traveler from either corner of the World. It is cultural, dynamic, beautiful and a natural city that has architectural splendor and delight. The city is so robust and eventful that it will be difficult to decide on where to go and what to see. Get you laptop out and plan an itinerary inclusive of the top picks for you and your family.

Hong Kong offers several areas that boasts a plethora of diverse attractions. You can enjoy temples, monuments, museums and the beautiful shopping districts. Other areas that offer days of must do’s include Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, the New Territories and the Outer Islands.

The Temples are spread throughout the territory. They serve Buddhism, Taoism as well as other deities. Some of the most stunning and breath-taking temples include the Chi Lin Nunnery, Sha Tin Che Kung Temple, Miu Fat Buddhist Monastery and the Yuen Yuen Institute. The various monuments throughout the city will allow you a glimpse into over 5,000 years of Chinese heritage and over 150 years of British Colonialism.

The museums in Hong Kong are diverse, and offer a vast expression of cultural arts, ancient works, history and modern science. Some of the most popular museums include the Hong Kong Heritage Museum, The Museum of Coastal Defence, The Hong Kong Museum of Art, The Hong Kong Museum of History, The Hong Kong Science Museum, The Hong Kong Space Museum and Dr. Sun Yat-sen Museum. While these are the major museums, you can set out to see some unique history at the Hong Kong Correctional Services Museum or the Police Museum which are only two of the approximately twenty special interest Museums.

Hong Kong has a never ending playground for the shoppers in each of us. The Street Markets are full of excitement and color. Here, shoppers get good use of their bargaining skills as everything for sale has a price that can be negotiated. You will find unique hand-made crafts, second hand items and even antiques. A few to choose from would include the Stanley Market, Temple Street Night Market, Ladies’ Market and Jade Market. If you would rather shop at a name brand paradise, Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and the New Territories features shopping malls, department stores as well as vibrant open-air markets.

Hong Kong Island is filled with popular attractions that will keep you out of your Luxury or Boutique Hotels for days. Here you will find attractions such as Madame Tussauds, Hollywood Road, Western Market, Lan Kwai Fongand SoHo, Golden Bauhinia Square, Happy Valley Race Course, Jumbo Kingdom, Ocean Park, Repulse Bay, Stanley Market, and Aberdeen. Additionally, this is where you will find Hong Kong’s most popular attraction, the Peak. Looking down from the Peak, you will be awe-inspired by the spectacular views of the city skyline, the world-famous Victoria Harbour, Kowloon, towering skyscrapers and green hillsides. The Peak’s tram is pulled by steal cables and climbs 373 metres making the trip up and down an amusing adventure.

Kowloon has many attractions within itself as well. This pulsating destination within Hong Kong Boasts over eleven attractions including the Cheung Sha Wan Road Fashion Street, Avenue of Stars, a Symphony of Lights, the Clock Tower, Kowloon’s Walled City Park, Lei Yue Mun Seafood Bazaar and Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple. Markets are plentiful here as you will find the Temple Street Night Market, Jade Market, Yuen Po Street Bird, Flower and Goldfish Market, and the Ladies’ Market.

When you visit the New Territories, you may see more old than new. Here you will find some of the oldest settlements and temples in Hong Kong. The most popular tourist attractions include Sha Tin Racecourse, Ching Chung Koon, Ping Shan Heritage Trail, Kat Hing Wai, Mai Po Wetlands, Tai Fu Tai, Tsing Ma Bridge, Fung Ying Seen Koon, Lung Yeuk Tau Heritage Trail, Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees and Tin Hau Temple, Sai Kung Town and the Hong Kong Wetland Park.

The Outlying Islands may be the most famous of attractions and is sincerely Hong Kong’s playground. Here you will find Hong Kong’s Disneyland, The Giant Buddha, Ngong Ping 360, Tai O Fishing Village, Mui Wo, Sky City, AsiaWorld-Expo, Cheung Chau and Lamma Island.

Hong Kong has so much to offer, from the finest boutique and luxury hotels to the cityscape and skyline. The attractions and events are endless. While this city guide may give you a glimpse into the robust lifestyle that Hong Kong has to offer, it only skims what is available in this busy city. Anything you need is available and everything you want is just a fingertip away. Enjoy it all, take it in and use a camera to look back because this vacation is sure to fly away.

Singapore City Guide for the Traveler

Singapore is a thriving city centre with 63 surrounding islands and one mainland. The size shouldn’t fool you as this robust city has grown in the last 150 years to become the busiest port in the world with over 600 shipping lines, super tankers, container ships and passenger liners. Outside of being one of the world’s leaders in manufacturing, oil refining and distribution of electronic components, Singapore owes much of it’s success to the excellent facilities, fascinating cultural diversities and tourist attractions. With over 130 banks and the superb communications network, Singapore has become a mecca for business and pleasure travelers from all over the world.

There is so much uniqueness and diversity in Singapore that we will be listing the odd attractions and must do’s rather than the same old museums, comedy clubs and monuments. Stepping back in time by visiting a well liked hole-in-the-wall confectionary, Chin Mee Chin, is a good place to start. This 65 year old charming breakfast and teas shop is far from modern but can provide insight into a rich history and culture.

When you are looking to escape from the hip-chic and modernized night life, head to Wala Wala. The moos here is laid back, the dress is very casual and the live band takes center stage. This pub draws it’s crowds which are as diverse as the city itself, offering chicken wings to pizza and everything in between. This hopping night time eatery and bar will bring Singapore into the heart of any traveler.

If you are looking for line dancing and a more interactive night time treat, then the Far East Square is the place to go. Die-hards grooving to the music of Country, Western, pop hits and odd samba. This craze caught on a few years ago, and today you can find cowboy Singaporeans dancing the night away.

If you are in Singapore it is a must to try the national dish, laksa, which is rice noodles, shrimp, cockles, fish cake and chili paste in thick coconut-based broth. This staple has won the hearts and bellies of critics and dignitaries alike. Area restaurants battle in Katong Laksa Wars, but you can take a stroll and try the most famous of them in the four stalls, 47, 49, 57 and 328. The food is great, the competition interesting and the area dynamic.

An interesting attraction, home to 71 hectares of land, the Pasir Ris Park, on the northeast coast of Singapore is a tourist hotpot. Here you will find pond-fishing, beachfront dining, bike, blade and kayak rentals, mangrove forests, pool, beers and café’s.

All the walking that you will be doing in Singapore will leave you in need of a good foot rub. It’s a good thing that foot reflexology is a Singaporean must have, and you can find a fuss free shop on every corner which are open extended hours. You will have your nerve endings, which are in your feet, massaged. According to ancient Chinese medicine, this helps to normalize the function of the body’s internal organs. Your boutique or luxury hotel may have personal indulgences but this will out do any other experience.

We have come to know convenience at Wal-Mart but a 24 hour six story shopping mall that is full of bargains, sometimes half that of an entire department store, is a shopaholic delight. Even if you’re not a shopaholic, you will see this rare find as not only delightful but creative and convenient. From local finds to major appliances, this mall has everything. You can find late night bargains at 145 Syed Alwi Road.

In addition to the more unique venues, some of the great and trusted attractions can be found in Singapore. Venture out and soak in Animal Kingdom, Butterfly Park, Night Safari, or the Singapore Zoo. Visit the Ethnic Quarters and see Little India, Chinatown, Gevlang Serai and Kmpong Glam. Indulge yourself in the Isles of Singapore and enjoy Kusu Island, Pulau Ubin, Sentosa and St. John’s Island.

Landmarks, memorials and museums are plentiful in Singapore. Some notable stops include Dalhousie Obelisk, Istana, Parliament House, Statues of Sir Stamford Raffles, the Supreme Court and City Hall.

The Museums are a must see in any city and Singapore doesn’t fall short. There are over twenty major museums from toys to designs and art to coins. The Parks, Gardens, Themed Attractions and Historical sights are no exception as Singapore boasts over sixty-five other unique and intriguing city highlights.

Rome City Guide for Travelers

Rome is certainly known for the Vatican, but outside of that, this city is filled with rich history, beautiful architecture and a multitude of museums and monuments. Rome wasn’t built in a day and you can’t expect to see it all in a short amount of time either. In a four day time span, you may be able to see the major attractions, but you still wouldn’t have time to really soak in the splendor and culture that Rome has to offer.

Dining in Rome shouldn’t be a chore. A plethora of dining establishments line the streets and are on every corner. Most are superb and even the house wine is tasty. The restaurants serve up tasty yet simple dishes including pasta, pizza, veal chicken and seafood. Most waiters speak English, and are more than hospitable. Since there are so many delicious eatery’s, choosing may be difficult. Simply choose what landscape you want to view while dining, after all, there is little difference in the quality or food or service.

You will be seeing many sights during your stay in Rome, and your boutique or luxury hotel room may become lonely and the maid a little bored. To get from one attraction to another, it is recommended that you get the tourist tickets called BIT or CIS which are good for unlimited rides. The BIT is good for three days and the CIS is valid for one week.

Rome is rich in attractions, and there are far more than what can be mentioned in a city guide, but for now we will list the main attractions. This will give you more than a week’s worth of must do’s, and by the end you will need that luxury Roman hotel! Many of the attractions have sights from within such as the Roman Colesseum. Here you will find The Roman Arch, The Arch of Constantine and the Colosseum and Gladiators. At the Roman Pantheon you will find Pantheon’s Pronaos. St. Peter’s Basilica boasts The Vatican, The Colonnades, The Pope’s Windows, The Fountains and Museums. As if you aren’t already amazed enough, a visit to the various squares and fountains will amaze you further. Here you will see the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Novana, The Fountain of the Four Rivers, Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps. The Roman Forum holds the Arch of Septimius Severus and the Temple of Antoninus and faustina. The Campidoglio offers the Capitol, Santa Maria in Aracoeli, Piazza Venezia, Vittoriano and The Trajan’s Column. The Castel St. Angelo offers six sights including the Bridge of Castel St. Angelo and is absolutely breathtaking. The Aventine will leave you in awe with the Mouth of Truth, Circus Maximus, The Temple of Portunus, the Knights of Malta, Giardino degli Aranci, Isola Tiberina and The Temple of Hercules. Hadrian’s Villa offers The Canopus and the Maritime Theater. At the Roman Roads you will get to savor the Ancient Via Appia and the Roadside Tombs. For more lovely fountains, go to Tivoli Villa d’Este where you will find the Hundred Fountains and the Fountains of Ovato. The Ancient Ostia contains the Roman Theatre, Capitolium Temple, Tepidarium, Frigidarium and Caupona di Alexander. One of the most famous attractions are the Baths of Caracalla. At the Villa Borghese you will find the Temple of Diana and Galleria Borghese and lastly the Trastevere is an absolute must see.

It was difficult enough to just name the major attractions in a paragraph, imagine running all over the city to see them in person, snapping pictures, learning about the history and browsing the once in a lifetime scenes. Since the list is so extensive and Rome has such a robust culture, diverse architecture and extensive history, it is recommended that you research some of the above main attractions to narrow your itinerary. While some cities may appeal to different genre’s of tourists, Rome will please any type of visitor. Old, young, American, Asian, male or female…there is something here for you. At the end of the week, you may want to take a day to enjoy your luxury or boutique hotel, take a hot bath and soak up the softness of your plush bed and amenities; your body will need it and thank you.

Valencia City Guide for Travelers

Valencia is still a unique place to visit; a place where paradise has not slipped away by the tourist industry and the locals haven’t lost their heritage. Here you will find an eclectic mix of new and old, modern and ancient, and where the most cutting edge technology meets antiquity. The skyline screams with a blend of beautifully mastered and artful architecture from years past and visions of the future. If you are looking for luxury, history, heritage, culture and diversity, Valencia is the place for you.

The diversity of Valencia offers any visitor a fun-filled itinerary packed with activities and must see’s that is individualized and unique. One recommendation would be to enjoy all that the Historic Centre has to offer, including the museums, historic sights and architecture. You can find the typical tourist attractions year round, such as theatres, art galleries or fairs as well as the traditional fiesta’s known only to Spain.

The nightlife offers more than just a good night out. Between the futuristic and old world style architecture you will find a homely, yet friendly nightlife with cultural and ethnical experiences found nowhere else is the world, which is what has made Valencia well known for it’s after hour delights. If the town center, museums, art galleries, architecture and nightlife isn’t enough, or you simply need some rest and relaxation, you may want to check out Valencia Beach. Beautiful waters and soft sandy beaches will wash all of your worries away. Perhaps staying at one of the boutique or luxury hotels with an ocean view may be what finishes off the day of a perfect vacation or holiday.

The City of Arts and Sciences is a huge complex dedicated to the education of Valencia and designed by Santiago Calatrva. This space age city was inspired by animal skeletons, built in the futuristic view and presented as a present to Santiago’s home city. The walk around is free, in a climate that accommodates. You will see why you were able to find the boutique and luxury hotels after you spend a day enjoying an art gallery in it’s own rights; The City of Arts and Sciences is truly a city within a city.

You will find yourself away from your hotel room and at the Turia River Bed at some point during your visit to Valencia. Here you will find a beautiful landscape jam-packed with events such as festivals, musicals and fiestas. Playgrounds, sporting areas, watering fountains and the landscape makes this attraction a place to relax and see the local culture. The City of Arts and Sciences is just across the river and offers a beautiful view from the already stunning riverbed.

It isn’t difficult to see why Valencia is the third largest city in Spain as you visit the beauty of the natural landscape halfway down the Mediterranean Coast. The people are being themselves, a show without a collection plate and the natural surroundings are not fake simply for your enjoyment. This is paradise untouched and one which has preserved it’s beauty through the tourism and spectators. Valencia has became a place where visitors from all country’s enjoy this growing city which now caters to the expositions, galleries, exhibits, fairs, circuses and carnivals that most huge cities enjoy, but not at the cost of the rich history and diverse yet traditional culture.

From the Boutique and Luxury Hotels to the beautiful art galleries of architecture, Valencia will leave you in awe, with splendid memories and the rest and relaxation you deserve. While there are around a million residents in this one of a kind city, you will feel all alone and like a million dollars in your boutique or luxury hotel, a young kid when frolicking in the river bed and an art connoisseur when visiting the galleries. The home of the Holy Grail, Modernity, and Tropical Beaches awaits you in Valencia, Spain.

Monday, August 3, 2009

Melbourne City Guide for Travelers

Melbourne, the capitol of Victoria Australia, is quite diverse in it’s culture and architecture. You can find sites from native tribes, visitors from all over the world, and urban culture like no other. The architecture is splendid, from it’s high rises and contemporary forms to the meek and historic Victorian styles. The city was well planned and laid out, but that is no indication of the type of culture that you will find in Melbourne. The city has a deep cosmopolitan flair with a restless population seeking the most exotic and creative amusement. Traveler’s to Melbourne can expect to experience lavish luxury through boutique hotels, exquisite shopping and natural relaxation from over 100 natural hot springs throughout the Victoria area. While relaxation and luxury is plentiful, the city is robust with nightlife, events and attractions making this destination a Mecca for all types of world explorer’s.

Melbourne is made up of precincts, each having it’s own flavor and style. Dining in Melbourne is no exception. You can find a wide variety of dishes, ranging from exquisite meals prepared by some of the world’s most renowned chef’s to the ethnic selections that you may only find in the heart of a melting pot city. Fashionable Restaurants, Eclectic Bars, Classy Café’s and delectable Bistro’s line the streets permeating smells of delicious cuisine.

Melbourne offers a plethora of fine public and private art galleries, showcasing a variety of art including contemporary, colonial, historical and local pieces. Two of the museums that would rank at the top of any art lover’s list includes the Heide Museum of Modern Art and The National Gallery of Victoria which houses both the Ian Potter Centre and the NGV International. The Heide Museum was the birthplace of Australian Modernism and houses some of the best native art forms in all of Australia. The National Gallery of Victoria at Federation Square boasts over 20,000 pieces from Australian artisans’ at the Ian Potter Centre which has more Australian artwork displays than anywhere else in the world. NGV International has four levels of awe-inspiring collections from Europe, Asia and America. Both of the houses belonging to the National Gallery of Victoria displays art from the colonial period to modern day. Admission to the National Gallery of Art is free for the permanent collection while exhibitions may have a small fee.

While the memories you are making at the Luxury or Boutique hotel may have the content needed to produce a well written theatrical production, Melbourne has dozens of musicals spread throughout the city. You can find mainstream shows that are staged world wide as well as local talent. The Regent and Princess Theatres are good choices for more popular and professional theatrics while the Malthouse is the place to go for high-quality local productions.

Melbourne is not only considered one of the most livable cities, but it has also been consistently ranked as Australia’s cultural capitol. The Luxury and Boutique Hotels, Spa’s and Mineral Springs offers a personal escape of indulgence. The Victorian parks and gardens, Victorian and Contemporary Architecture and the diverse multi-cultural society offers the avid traveler all the ingredients of a vacation hot spot. No matter what type of getaway you desire, Melbourne Australia is sure to exceed your expectations.

Sunday, August 2, 2009

Miami City Guide for Travelers

Miami is a world of it’s own. Once you go, there is no need to leave. The weather is warm all year, the beaches are beautiful and Miami has all the excitement and diversity any traveler could possibly handle. From the luxury and boutique hotels to the beaches, day spa’s, shopping, museums and Everglades, activities are plentiful. Dive in to the nightlife, mouth watering cuisine and landscape that will leave you with memories, photographs and experiences that will last a life time.

There isn’t just one beach to choose from, there are several. Listing them all with each amenity could get lengthy so here you will find some of the most popular and exquisite beaches that Miami has to offer. While Haulover Park Beach may not provide the eye catching beauty that Miami is known for, it is the only nude beach in town. If you are looking to peel away the clothes and go for a unity with nature, then Haulover Park is just for you. The North Shore Open Space Park is perfect for beach goers and nature lovers. This beach has beautiful stretches of sand, picnic areas, restrooms with showers and lifeguards. You will find sea-grapes, dunes and nature trails. This beach is often overlooked, so you may even avoid the dense crowds that taunt other Miami Beaches. South Beach is anything but quiet. This beach has something to suit anyone’s needs. Anything goes at this fun-filled, trendy hot spot including the 12th Street area which is suitable for men and their male companions, the surfers and thrill seekers around First and Fifth Street and topless women peppered all in between. South Beach accommodates families too which you will see walking around in the midst of the pleasurable indulgences. This Beach offers luxury needs such as chair and umbrella rentals and speak easy clubs with VIP rooms. In the South Beach area, you will also find The Art Deco District on Ocean Drive which is filled with Restaurants, shopping and kitsch. The Crandon Park Beach has little entertainment but with it’s soft white sand, perfect for beach towels and it’s tall luscious palm trees dotting the beach with just enough shade, it makes for the perfect family or quiet sunny spot. This beach offers lifeguards, concessions, picnic areas, tables and grills. No matter what beach you choose, the sun and the sand will certainly brighten your day.

South Florida is a Mecca for all comfortable things. The boutique hotels, luxury resorts, day spa’s, concierge services and even cosmetic surgery. Beauty and fitness services are packed into this diverse city making it difficult to choose which one will best fit your pampering needs. If you are looking for a Med Spa, try out Gloria Hincapie Spa where you will find Reducing and Therapeutic Massages, Moon Baths, Dierriere Lift-Ups, Lymphatic Drainage, Breast Lifting, Double Chin Treatment, Cellulitis Lifting, Reafimant Treatment, facial Cleaning and Waxing. Iluma Laser & Aesthetic Institute offers Botox, Fillers, Cellulite Treatments, Facial Services, Laser Hair removal, Laser Skin Treatments, Photo Rejuvenation, Mesotherapy, Endermologie and Tattoo removal. Other full service salons (and we mean full service) include the Spa at the Mandarin Oriental for massages and skin wraps, New Life Clinic at Nirvana Spa for Tanning Beds, Body Treatments, yoga, café and water bar and a Hyperbaric Oxygen chamber, and last Uhma Spa & Shop which boasts massages, facials, healing baths, wraps, body polishes, manicures, pedicures and trade. For a unique experience go to Aqua Spa, where you will find all of the above services but they are all offered outside and even roof top.

So you have explored your luxury hotel and all that comes with the lavish lifestyle of Miami, now all is left is a little shopping. Coconut Grove boasts chic trends and has something to offer every age group. Visit the Onda Love, ANA G, The Fashionista Consignment Boutique, IOS, Maya Hatcha, Breda’s Boutique, Isabel Riera Haute Couture, Butter, The Shoe Store, The Book Store in the Grove, Celestial Treasures, Sparkle Plenty, Pet Gallery and Hippo. Each of these are designer, one-of-a-kind high fashion boutiques and shops that can only be found in the fashion-forward city of Miami. This is not ordinary shopping at mundane chain stores found anywhere in the Country, rather rare finds perfect for anyone looking for that unique bargain.

While this city is young, happening, diverse and party friendly, museums are still plentiful. Visit one of the art museums where ancient and modern art come together, see the botanical gardens which will heighten all of your senses, or go to an animal exhibit where swimming with the dolphins offers an adventurous outing. There are more than 30 museums to choose from where the culture, diversity and history of Miami shines through.

No matter what venue you are looking for, what demographics you fit in and what age group best represents you and your guest, Miami has it all. And after all this excitement, your luxury hotel will be the end all of a fabulous day where you can lather on the Aloe-Vera and soak in a much needed tub filled with the most luxurious condiments. Try something new, please your taste buds with some ethnic foods, try exploring the famous everglades or enjoy an outside massage and go home a completely new and relaxed person, thanks to the boutique hotels and shops that will accommodate your every need.

Saturday, August 1, 2009

Madrid City Guide for Travelers

Madrid, lined with museums, art galleries, tourist attractions, luxury and boutique hotels, shopping and some of the finest restaurants‘, is a very unique and diverse travel destination. Looking for luxury? Well, look no further. Stay at one of the many luxury hotels and visit your choice of more than forty museums. If you are looking for the same class and quality of a luxury Madrid Hotel, but want a smaller venue, try one of the smaller 15-20 room Boutique Hotels located in the heart of the city. Here you may want to relax, get a massage, and stroll through the many different shopping zones to find some unique bargains.

The Prado, a world renowned art gallery, is located in the heart of Madrid in an 18th century building designed by Juan de Villanueva. Here you will find collections from Velazquez, Botticelli, Bosch, Rembrandt and other highly acclaimed artists.

Leave your Luxury Hotel and visit Luxury at it’s finest. The Royal Palace will place you in awe, with the splendid architecture, magnificent gardens and Fresco’s by some of the most well known artists. Here you will find the work of Tiepolo, Goya, Rubens, El Greco and Juan de Flandes to name a few.

Going from your boutique hotel to the shopping the boutiques can be easy when you visit the Fuencarral Market. Spend the day and see the fashion forward clothing and shoe shops, home décor market places and jewelry stores. The music that plays in the centre sets the tone. In addition to shopping, you will find culture activities, movies until midnight and another art gallery. This truly is a must do and an entire day out of your itinerary.

If you are looking for some excitement, you may want to consider getting ticket to a Madrid classic, the Bull Fight (March-October), located at the Plaza de Toros Monumental de las Ventas. This event takes place on Sunday evenings at 7pm. While most tickets go to season ticket holders, you will be able to find yours a couple of days prior to the event at Las Ventas.

While fast food restaurants are available in Madrid, you may not feel comfortable leaving your plush luxury hotel and eating a cheeseburger. No worries, there are many fine restaurants in the city to choose from. Want to do more than just eat? Visit the renowned and uniquely decorated club, Torres Bermejas, and watch the famous Flamenco show while eating some of Spain’s finest foods. Compliment your dinner with some wine, cava or sangria. This night will be a night to remember.

From the Luxury and Boutique hotels of Madrid to the interesting culture, history and art galleries, your trip will be fun-filled and exciting. There is shopping, food, nightlife, entertainment, interesting architecture, splendid parks and royalty. Relax, see, learn and enjoy all that Madrid has to offer.

New York City Guide for Travelers

New York city is truly the city that never sleeps. With it’s tall skyscrapers, hustle and bustle and well laid out city streets, your adventure will begin as soon as you arrive. The many songs that you hear about New York are all true. Manhattan has been a Mecca to celebrities and prominent travelers due to the rich culture and plush luxury and boutique hotels. New York City can accommodate the adventurous and relaxed traveler. The key is to plan an itinerary, prioritizing the activities or sights that you want to experience the most.

New York City is broken down into sections. The five Burroughs are Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, Manhattan and Stanton Island. Manhattan is the area rich with museums, history, Broadway shows, nightlife and even Wall Street. Manhattan is a great walking city. Most everything there can be walked to, though you may want to take a cab if you are running short on time. Since the city is so densely populated with residents and tourists alike, it is much easier to travel on foot or by cab. I would not recommend a rental car if your are visiting New York, unless you intend on seeing other parts of the State. Otherwise, foot and mass transportation will be the best bet.

Times Square is a must see if you are going to visit New York City. Luxury and Boutique hotels are available in the heart of the most diverse and action packed Times Square area. The bright lights, restaurants, comedy clubs, bars and shops is enough to keep you busy for an entire evening. If you plan to see a comedy show however, I do recommend that you call ahead for show times. Ha Comedy Club and Caroline’s Comedy Club would be two of the top picks. The Iridium is a well known and liked Jazz Club that would be a nice relaxing night out. All types of diners are available until very late to catch a meal after your evening out. Times Square is very modern, but you will see police on horseback. For an interesting museum, tourists like the Ripley’s Believe it or Not located in the Times Square area. Here you will find some of the World’s most odd and bizarre artifacts. At Times Square you will enjoy a plethora of café’s, diners, and restaurants from French cuisine to pizzeria’s. The smells of fresh foods permeate the streets.

Moving outside of Times Square, the city is robust. Some other attractions include Wall Street, Ground Zero, Broadway, Central Park and Carnegie Hall. Central Park, much like times Square has many attractions within and restaurants that will delight your taste buds. Central Park has some of the finest New York City hotels, where attractions are right outside your door. The Central Park Zoo boasts over 130 species. Here you will experience the sections within including the Polar Circle, The Rain Forrest and The Temperate Territory. The events at Central Park are non-stop and include walking tours, wall climbing, ice skating, theatrical performances, concerts and a tour of the Belvedere Castle. Some of these events are seasonal so call the Central Park Tourism office for more information. Central Park covers a stunning 843 acres and 6% of Manhattan. The entire package of Central Park from beautiful landscape, historic buildings and monuments, to the many attractions will leave you in absolute wonderment.

New York City offers any traveler a unique and fun-filled vacation. Here you can travel in style, stay at some of the finest Boutique Hotels, shop at Saks Fifth Avenue and explore a culture like none other. Take your time, plan out your vacation, grab your camera and experience the diverse attractions of the Big Apple.

Sydney City Guide for Travelers

Sydney Australia is the perfect destination for just about anyone. Sydney, with it’s diverse culture, rich history, beautiful landscape and modern architecture will please travelers regardless of their gender, age or cultural background. The boutique and luxury hotels are no exception. Just sitting in the room of a lavishly decorated luxury hotel, viewing the stunning architecture, skyline and city lights would dazzle even the most avid world explorer. Now that you know you can spend a relaxing evening in your boutique or luxury hotel, let’s take a look at what adventures are available throughout this interesting and entertaining city.

The possibilities are endless when you think about exploring Sydney, Australia. There are a few must do’s within this pulsating city that are once in a lifetime opportunities. Visit Sydney Harbour, the oldest city and the gateway to Australia. Climb to the top of Sydney’s Harbour Bridge arch span, day or night guided by BridgeClimb or try surfing at Bondi Beach for a truly exhilarating adventure. Either way, be sure to see the kangaroo’s, taste some of the finest international cuisine waterside and browse some of the most exquisite boutiques that Australia has to offer.

Your visit to Sydney Harbour will entertain you with it’s six islands and one national park. While you can’t possibly explore this diverse attraction in it’s entirety on a day trip, the time that you spend will be fun-filled and memorable. If you just can’t get enough in one day, stay the night on the water or an island. You can take a scenic cruise, enjoy a charted yacht, or be daring and see Sydney from a birds eye view aboard a seaplane by Rosebay. Have you been looking at the beautiful array of plants in your boutique hotel lobby and wondering what species they are? Enjoy the day at Sydney Harbours’ Royal Botanic Gardens and learn all about the native and exotic plants that Australia has to offer. End the day reflecting on Australia’s European past by viewing the convict-built structures and historic forts before returning to your lavish and relaxing luxury hotel. All of this is found at the world-renowned Sydney Harbour.

While Australia offers paradise through natural landscape , much of the culture lies inside of the museums and architecture of the cosmopolitan style City Centre. Modern office towers, including Australia’s tallest structure, The Sydney Tower, is located amongst some of the richest historical sites. Catch a show at the Sydney Oprah House which was proclaimed as the 20th century architectural masterpiece. Move across town and view the Queen Victoria Building and The Strand Arcade, both with flair from the 1890’s; and while you are on your way take pictures of the street names, honoring early English governor’s. Everything in the City Centre screams heritage and history.

While you may have a view of The Blue Mountains from your posh boutique hotel room, nothing replaces the experience of this natural art-form itself. The beauty of the park includes the various breathtaking waterfalls, the blue tint of the dense eucalypt forest, and the natural diversity among the foliage. Add to the memory by taking a guided walking tour, try your hand at some daring rock climbing, or indulge in a horse back ride. If you are looking for a theme-park type scenic adventure, the Katoomba Scenic Railway is just what you are looking for. As the world’s steepest railway, it begins at the top of Katoomba and descends all the way down to Jamison Valley. If you haven’t had a kangaroo photo opportunity yet, you are guaranteed to see them in their natural environment at Euroka Clearing of the Blue Mountains National Park.

Sydney is full of diversity, beauty, history, and modern architecture at it’s finest. From Bondi, the most celebrated beach in the country where inhibitions are left behind, to the height of some of the most breathtaking mountains in the world, your trip to Sydney is sure to leave you with memories, erudition and contentment.