5 Reasons to Use Heathrow Express to London

Serving as one of the world’s demanding international airports and carrying more than five million passengers each year, HeathrowExpress is considered as the most successful high-speed mode of air transportation globally. Their travel service has the capacity to handle more than 160,000 passengers a day for 15 minute journey between the Heathrow Airport and Central London’s Station. 

Heathrow Express operates for 150 services every day with 5 terminals.  Heathrow Express reaches Heathrow central for 15 minutes and Terminal 5 for about 4 minutes. There is a free service promo if you have your departure in Terminal 4. Since there are a lot of competitors this day in terms of air transportation, considering these factors why Heathrow Express should be on your no. one.

Offers high speed travel

Heathrow Express has this minimum speed of 100 mph and considered as one of the fastest air express in the world. This top speed performance of Heathrow Express serves as their major strategy to attract clients and patronize them. This air transportation is the best way to travel from London to other places. Heathrow Express offers the following speed time frame for ultimate convenience of their clients:

Travel time is 15 minutes – 23 minutes 

London Heathrow to Paddington Station – every 15 minutes 

Paddington Station to London Heathrow – 15 minutes

Checking of luggage and other properties – up to 2 hours before the flight. This is to secure safety and protection of the passengers

Very convenient and expedient

We cannot deny the fact that getting tickets for air travel is definitely stressful and annoying because you have to fall in line first before you could go to cashier and have your tickets for your plane. But for Heathrow express, you can immediately have your tickets by just staying in your home as they have available e-tickets served for clients who don’t have time to have their tickets through walk-in directly at their office. You can print your ticket any time before your scheduled flight (image by 153306). 

Spacious place to relax

If you are bored and tired waiting for your flight, Heathrow Express has spacious place reserved to passengers that everyone can enter for you to relax yourself. You can leave your luggage and other bags in one of their comfortable and spacious seats while you are relaxing. If you have the budget, you can use the legroom and there’s a personal table in it that you can utilize if you will use your laptop or any items that need to laid down on a flat surface. There are free newspapers and magazines available inside Heathrow Express for your convenience. 

Has On-board TV

Another best feature of Heathrow Express why a lot of their passengers continue patronizing and trusting them is because of their potential in having on-board television. This innovative thing serves as the major source of the air express in gaining up-to-date news, weather and entertainment reports.

Accessible and always available

The level platform access of Heathrow Express means that you don’t have to struggle with your luggage and other important stuffs. They have security agents wandering around its vicinity for the welfare and protection of all passengers. 

Related post:     Business Breaks in the Big Smoke: Heathrow Hotels

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The Delights Of Catalonia

Situated in the extreme eastern portion of Spain, bordered by France and the blue Mediterranean, Catalonia is one of the most intriguing and engaging places to visit in Europe. Home to Barcelona, the second-largest city in Spain, it is a region apart, providing a striking contrast to the rest of the country. In fact, Catalonia is fiercely independent, and even has its own language – Catalan.

Any visit to Catalonia has to start with Barcelona. The city has some of the most beautiful architecture in Spain, including many buildings and monuments designed by the famous architect Gaudi. You will see signs of his handiwork everywhere – ranging from balconies that seem to emerge organically from the sides of buildings, through to the enormously impressive Sagrada Família. Started in 1882, this is a large basilica that combines the Gothic and curvilinear Art Nouveau forms that are the signature of Gaudi’s work. Although the church is still not finished, it has already been declared a UNESCO world heritage site.

Another area of Barcelona that is absolutely de rigueur when it comes to places to visit is La Rambla, an 8-mile-long avenue that dates back to 1440 and has served as the center of Barcelona city life since that time. The avenue is home to many markets and museums, as well as baroque palaces and even the Liceu opera house – one of the finest in the world. Step into the side streets of the Ciutat Vella – or Old City – and you will enter a warren of narrow passages that suddenly open out into spacious courtyards where people gather on warm sunny days. There are also many fine restaurants within the Ciutat Vella, as well as more reasonable establishments that serve the local cuisine. However, you need to remember that dining here is a late evening activity, as it is in much of Spain – don’t expect to find a restaurant open before 9 o’clock.

If you are looking for somewhere to stay in Barcelona, there are a number of good upscale hotels situated on the Avinguda Diagonal, a broad avenue that dissects Barcelona from west to east. However, if you want to experience Barcelona life to its fullest, consider staying right on La Rambla at somewhere like the Citadines Ramblas Barcelona – you can find out more about this on the Royal Holiday LinkedIn page.

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The attractions of Catalonia, however, are not limited to Barcelona. For instance, if you are looking for a rugged taste of the outdoors, pay a visit to the Parque Nacional de Aiguestortes, located in the wild mountainous landscape of the Pyrenees. Here you can enjoy trekking through the unique flora and fauna, or take a bike out on one of the park’s paved routes. Alternatively, visit the old town in Tossa De Mar, located about 60 miles from Barcelona. This is the only fortified medieval town still in existence along the Catalan coast, and has remained largely unchanged since the end of the 14^th century. Here you will see ancient battlements, turrets and parapets surrounding a charming area of narrow cobblestone streets.

Related post:        Visting or Living in Madrid? How Will You Get from Place to Place?

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5 Amazing Historical Sites in Istanbul, Turkey

Traveling has become a passion to most people who look into having a wonderful time away from the monotonous tasks. However, the choice of destination is very important and should be thought through well. One place which will certainly satisfy your thrill for travel is Istanbul in Turkey. This part of Turkey has a lot of attractive historical locations in addition to having wonderful accommodation options. The options include hotels, hostels and apartments while Istanbul apartment prices are varied and which is depends on your preference and budget. For instance, the hostels are ideally priced if you want to save on money while having great accommodation. Still, for extended stays, you can decide to book into a hotel or go for an apartment for a more personalized stay. When it comes to site seeing, some of the best historical places here include:

1. Basilica Cistern

This is an underground wonder which you have to make a point of visiting when in this location. It used to serve as a water storage chamber during the earlier times. It is located beneath the square known as stoa basilica which provides a unique underground experience. The basilica cistern is made of 36 beautiful marble columns in addition to the vaulted ceilings. The mysterious yet attractive aspect of this underground location is the presence of two columns which have an image depicting the famous head of medusa. Therefore, the location is amazing and worth visiting when in Istanbul.

2. Istanbul Archeology Museum

One can never talk of History without having a museum in mind. This is the location which harbors important memories and objects worth preserving. In respect to this, there is the archeology museum here which has millions of artifacts on display for the visitors. This museum is split into three parts namely the main museum, tiled kiosk museum and the ancient orient museum. Notably, it has some of the most remarkable pieces of history including the most treasured item which is the Alexander tomb.

 

3. Rumeli Fortress

This is another ideal historical destination which was built in 1412 by ottoman sultan. The fortress was mainly built to block the city’s supplies. The construction took about 4 months and was done by people amounting to 3000. It has great views from its towers which you are sure to enjoy.

4. Topkapi Palace

It is one of the most popular sites in Istanbul which is ideal for travelers to make a stop. The palace covers a whooping 700,000 meters squared. This area is occupied by courtyards, main palace and other locations. There is much to see in this place including the great ottoman architecture, and belongings of Prophet Mohamed which are an important part of the Muslim Culture. Audio tours are also available if you so wish.

5. Blue Mosque

The blue mosque is yet another iconic historic location which is very popular. It was built in a decade precisely from 1606 to 1610 by sultan Ahmet 1st and is famed for its grand and ornate interior. The name Blue Mosque is well complemented by the array of blue tiles used in its making.

Conclusively, cultural Heritage is an important aspect which is much appreciated and this area of turkey has ideally assured of this. By travelling to the named historical locations, there is much to see ranging from museums to palatial locations. Therefore, if you want to enjoy a wonderful vacation which incorporates learning with fun, then this is the ideal destination.

Related post: Europe on a Budget: The Top 10 Destinations On The Continent!

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How To Relax On A Business Trip

A business trip is always hard work but the secret of a successful trip is to relax as well as work hard.

Expense

One of the best things about a business trip is that most of the costs will be born by your employer. If you're going to a totally new destination and spending a few days there, try to carry out some research and see how you can enjoy yourself in the evening.

It's important at this stage to see if your company will cover entertainment as well as accommodation expenses. It's also vital to make sure that you have sufficient business travel insurance.

The last thing that anyone wants on a business trip is a delayed flight or train journey or to lose their laptop. Insurance may compensate for these calamities.

Destination

The first thing that you should do is make sure you have packed all the relevant memory sticks and documents that you'll need on your journey. Panic before a trip could produce chaos, and that's never relaxing. Ensure you have sufficient currency as well as credit cards and keep your passport in a safe place at all times.

If you are traveling for your company overseas remember that you are there primarily for the sake of the company but this shouldn't preclude the opportunity to carry out some evening sightseeing.

For example, if you're traveling to Europe most representatives of these countries are superb hosts and you should make them aware that you'd like to see a bit of their local city. Try and learn a few phrases in your hosts' native language. This will help you at a company function and may even help your business flourish.

Booking

A massage and spa at your hotel shouldn't be considered out of the ordinary these days. Most business class establishments will be able to provide them and these facilities will help you unwind after a meeting packed day.

Access to a gym to start your day will also help you put your best foot forward. It's always tempting to hit the mini bar when away from home but if possible try to restrict your drinking. It's very difficult to concentrate with a hangover and doesn't reflect very well on your company either.
(Header Image Courtesy of {Clément}.)

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Top 6 Things To See or Do In Dubai

Dubai is a thriving metropolis with top-class attractions. With the city stretching 25 miles along the coast, you will be amazed by their sheer accessibility. Taxis are not only cheap but plentiful and with a reliable metro, it can be easy to get around.

You should note that Dubai is a Muslim country and you should respect this fact. Though alcohol is available, you shouldn’t be found staggering in the streets. The weather can also get extremely hot but you have no reason to wear next to nothing in public places such as shopping malls. When you act respectfully, you will also be treated with kindness as you enjoy this nearly crime-free environment.

You can enjoy Dubai holiday packages from a price of £500. These packages include a 3 nights/4 days accommodation, inclusive of breakfast and all applicable tax, meet & greet service at the airport, dhow cruises, half day tour of Dubai city with a visit to Dubai museum and desert safari. There are also cheaper packages for people traveling on a budget.

Top 6 things/places

The Buri Khalifa

It is almost impossible to miss the tallest structure on earth when you arrive in Dubai. One thing that you shouldn’t miss is viewing the city from the 134th floor. Whether during the day or night, the view is just spectacular.

The Dubai mall

An activity that you cannot afford to miss in Dubai is shopping. You got to see this more so as to believe it. The eating and shopping appears like a side attraction. Some of the amazing features of the mall include an indoor theme park known as Sega World, 22-screen cinema, children’s world called Kidzania, and an aquarium that has an underwater zoo. (image courtesy of Prof. Tournesol).

Skiing at the Mall of the Emirates

Nothing offers a truly great ski experience like skiing in the Ski Dubai located in the Mall of the Emirates. The longest run is about 1,300 feet and you can hire all the ski gears necessary. The lockers are also more than you need.

The lost city

You will witness an island that was created from nothing with the building of Palm Jumeirah. With the Atlantis hotel sitting on top of it, nothing makes such a spectacular landmark. A water-park known as Aquaventure is also among the attractions. Here you get up close with dolphins and for kids, there is a play area.

Friday brunch

With weekends starting on Thursday in Dubai, a common tradition for restaurants is to offer an all-you-can-eat-and-drink brunch every Friday during Lunchtime. Different establishments battle in putting up the most attractive array of beverages and dishes.

Desert tours

There are various tour companies that will pick you from your hotel for a desert tour. This will include a traditional Arabic meal with belly dancers and a camel ride. If you are among the adventurous, you can hire a 4*4 and go for the exploration on your own.

Conclusion

These unforgettable sites/activities make Dubai rank among the must visit holiday destinations. The fact that you can leave your car unlocked and still find it intact is a great pleasure that you will rarely enjoy anywhere else in the world.

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Honeymooning Vacation in Albufeira - Cherish Those Moments

If you're about to tie the knot and are trying to plan the perfect honeymoon then there are a few key ingredients you'll need to look for in a destination. Guaranteed sunshine and golden sandy beaches are among the most important, allowing you and your partner to unwind and spend some quality time together. Interesting culture and history can also add a little extra spice to a honeymoon, and Albufeira is one place that has all of these in abundance.

Located in the central Algarve, Albufeira enjoys more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a year, making it an instant hit with couples looking for a romantic break. Having only been a city since 1986, the place has retained much of its original charm and still bears all the hallmarks of a small fishing village. As a result, it's got a wonderfully relaxing vibe and is the perfect place to really get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Choosing the right accommodation can also make or break a honeymoon, and you'll find a great range of Albufeira hotels at vacenza.com.

Great beaches
It goes without saying that you'll want to spend some time on the beach when you're on your honeymoon, and one of the great things about Albufeira is that it is surrounded by dozens of sandy stretches, each one offering something a little different. Several of these bear the prestigious Blue Flag, including Praia Olhos d'Agua, which is situated in a small secluded bay and is a fishing hub.

Albufeira's main beach, Oura, is the place to go if you want to take part in water sports or fancy some vibrant nightlife, although as this is your honeymoon you'll probably want to get away from all that, so a trip to the stunning Belharucas beach, which is flanked by pine cliffs, is a great alternative

Praia das Pescadores, meanwhile, is located near to the old city of Albufeira, and is lined with small seafood restaurants offering the freshest dishes caught that very same day. It's the perfect place to come for a romantic evening meal looking out over the ocean.

Charming history
As previously mentioned, Albufeira is traditionally a small fishing village that has only held city status for a couple of decades. Exploring this history is like stepping back in time, and makes for a great adventure to start your married life together. The small fisherman's huts that line Praia Olhos d'Agua are a charming reminder of the region's past, while exploring the old city is a good way to learn more about the many civilizations that have controlled the region at different times. (image courtesy of David Gaya).

Originally a Roman town, Albufeira was captured by the Moors in the eighth century, before being taken by the Christian Knights of the Order of Santiago around 500 years later. The Old City is full of monuments built at various periods in the region's history, with the iconic clock tower - or Torre do Relogio - offering amazing panoramic views of the city and the ocean.

Wonderful activities
Away from the old quarter of Albufeira is the new part of town, known as The Strip. It's here that you'll find the main shopping and nightlife opportunities, which offer a welcome reprieve from sunbathing. After all, just because you're on honeymoon doesn't mean you have to lounge around doing nothing the whole time.

Several excursions can also be enjoyed in Albufeira, with boat rides - such as those offered by Algarve Seafaris - taking you closer to some of the amazing marine wildlife and rock formations for which the area is famous. The chance to see wild dolphins is something that can help make your honeymoon a truly unforgettable experience.

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Top Places to Cool Off in Tenerife - Chilling!

Considering a great vacation or holiday in Spain? Thought there are so many choice, Tenerife is home to many wonderful beaches, naturally-formed pools and water parks, giving you lots of options when you want to cool off.  However, I'm finding it hard to work out where I'd like to go because there are just so many choices.

So, before I jet off on my holiday, I've put together with a list of a few of Tenerife's more unusual spots for a dip, as I think going for a swim in any of the following places will be truly memorable.

Punta del Hidalgo

My first selection is Punta del Hidalgo, a village on the north coast of Tenerife that's home to a series of saltwater swimming pools that are dotted along the coastline.

These pools are the perfect place to cool down in the heat of summer and one of the best things is that they're always calm, so even if it's too rough to swim at the beach you can still jump in the water. As they look out over the Atlantic Ocean, they're also incredibly scenic.

Charco de la Laja

Also in the north of Tenerife is Charco de la Laja, which is similar to Puerto Hidalgo in that it's a saltwater pool that's separate from the ocean. What makes this spot really stand out, though, is that the pool has been formed by rapidly cooling lava during a volcanic eruption, with the rocks forming a natural, teardrop-shaped basin.

This looks like a really spectacular place to go for a swim and I love the thought of floating in the water and listening to the waves crashing on to the rocks that stand between the pool and the sea (image courtesy of johnbecks).

Parque Maritimo Cesar Manrique

Moving on from the natural to the manmade, I came to Parque Maritimo Cesar Manrique. This is a huge leisure complex located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife that boasts several swimming pools, recreation facilities, restaurants and plenty of spots where you can soak up the sun.

The special thing about this place is that it was designed by famous architect Cesar Manrique (hence its name), who took great pains to make the buildings within the complex work with the natural Canarian landscape.

Siam Park

This is the ideal place to cool off and enjoy an adrenalin rush at the same time, as Siam Park is a water park with plenty of thrilling rides and fun things to do. I'm thinking of staying in a hotel in Tenerife's Playa delas Americas resort, which means I'll be within easy reach of this attraction and can even walk to it (although there's a bus service if you don't fancy stretching your legs).

Among the water slides in the park are the terrifying Tower of Power that features a 28 m drop, the Dragon that allows you to experience zero gravity before you plunge into the water and the more sedate Mekong rapids.

It's worth being aware that entry to Siam Park is €33 (£28) for adults and €22 for children aged between three and 11 years old, so make sure you allow for this in your holiday budget if it's somewhere you'd like to visit.

These are just a few of the many options for cooling down while on holiday in Tenerife. If you've visited the island let us know where your favourite spot to take a dip is.

Related post:      Visting or Living in Madrid? How Will You Get from to Place?

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The Five Imperative Steps to Making Your Dreams Come True

Making dreams come true is a huge deal. It is the delicate meeting of chance with determination, luck with will-power. Making your dreams come true means you allow yourself to dream, to imagine, to envision yourself in a new reality, and then take the progressive steps towards making that vision a reality. Easier said than done. In order to make any dream come true you need these five audacious steps.

1- Dare to Dream

Nothing will happen if you don't allow yourself to look outside of your current reality. You will never reach someplace else if you only can envision yourself here and now. The reality you are in is great, as long as you realize that it constantly changes and can change into something else only if you dare to dream it.

2- Don't Listen to Nah-Sayers

The world is filled good people who cannot look outside of the box and when you try to tell them that there is another way, or if you start dreaming, they will tell you to stop wasting your foolish time. Do not listen to them. Everyone who ever did anything amazing with their lives did what was outside of the norm of the society they were living in. If they say you can't do it, smile, walk away, and find people who say you can.

3- Make a Five Year Plan

Though that may seem like a crazy far-away time frame for you, it is not. Sit down with paper and pen (or on your computer) and decide what is it you want your life to look like in five years. Be specific in your vision and then, sit down and break it down to see what steps you need to take to make that five year plan happen. Do you want to save a bulk of money, get a degree, travel the world? What things need to happen before that dream can come true? When do they need to get done. This organized plan will take that huge dream into doable steps

4- Make Your Money Work For You
Without money you will not make those dreams come true. You need to have the financial freedom to make your dream a reality. Learn to spend so much less and save so much more. Open a savings account with good rates to keep your money working for you while you work to save it. The more money you can put into your savings the more real your dream will become.  You may have to look around to find the best saving account for you, but keep in mind you might need a quick access to your funds as you travel. I would recommend asking your banker which account will meet your travel needs.

5- Do It

It is scary to make dreams come true. Sometimes, complaining but staying stuck is easier. And, when you are ready, there will always be another obstacle or excuse as to why you should postpone or cancel. Don't. Take the leap, do the impossible, enter the unknown and do it.

Many people talk a lot about making dreams come true. We've found great inspiration in The Nomadic Family, a family of five who walk the talk and blog about adventures around the world. Now in their third year of non-stop world travel, this amazingly open family shares what and how they made their dreams come true, most notably in their ebook Saving For a Dream. Follow them, or others who inspire you to make your dreams come true. You deserve it. 

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Planning Your Trip To Breckenridge

Breckenridge is based in Colorado and has a population of around 4,500. For tourists, there are plenty of activities available all year round. In winter, skiing, sledging, snowboarding and sleigh rides are among the most popular activities. In summer, there is a range of great outdoor activities like water rafting, fly-fishing and paintball.

Breckenridge is widely regarded as one of the top ski resorts in North America. The season starts in November and runs all the way through until the end of April. As you would expect, it is very popular over the Christmas holidays and bookings fill up fast. Ideally, you should try to plan your trip many months in advance, but it's always worth checking if it's possible to make a last minute booking.

The Town of Breckenridge has a rich history. Back in 2009 it celebrated its 150-year anniversary. While the population is small, the floods of tourists have turned the town into a vibrant and successful area, and a great place to live and do business. There are over 200 shops, approaching 80 restaurants and nearly 500 places to stay, including hotels, bed and breakfasts and inns. For a town with a population of around 4,500, these numbers are truly remarkable.


For those traveling to Breckenridge, a condo rental can often be the best option. If you are planning to ski, you'll be living right next to the action, and might only have a five-minute walk to get started. Pick the right time of year and you should be able to pick up a great price. Websites like Summitvacations.net frequently feature specials, like "30% off for Labor Day Weekend."

Condo rentals are the best option for those with young families and those who are traveling in large groups. If necessary, you can usually find condos with three bedrooms. Condos allow you to buy groceries and cook for yourself, which makes them more appropriate for longer stays, and for those looking to save money. Most condos come with foldout beds and spare beds, so you can usually sleep a much larger number of people than you expected. Because of this, the cost per person works out to be much lower.

When people are planning their trip, it's very common that they'll forget to pack sunscreen and get burned on the first day. Keep in mind that the sun can be very powerful, so don't be deceived by the temperature. If you don't have any skiing equipment, you'll able to rent it out when you're there. You should also make sure that you have access to appropriate clothing. All of your gear needs to be waterproof, you should wear a hat, and you also need appropriate goggles. If you don't have the right gear already, don't worry. There are plenty of great retailers around the area who have a better selection than you're likely to find in your home state.

All year round you can go on a hot air balloon ride, allowing you to see an incredible view over the mountains. According to Go Breck, "your balloon adventure will provide you with spectacular 100 mile panoramic mountain views. Prominent scenery may include views of the Continental Divide, Mosquito Range, Sangre De Cristo mountains, Sawatchmountains, Mt. Elbert (the highest peak in Colorado 14,433 ft), Pikes Peak, South Park Valley, Collegiate Peaks, vast rolling hills and Colorado native wildlife."

There are two companies that offer hot air balloon rides in the area. Ideally, you should try to do this near the start of your trip, and get a sense of the area where you are. While the views already look stunning from the slopes, they are something else when you are soaring above the mountains and looking down. If you are into photography, make sure to bring your camera on the trip, but be sure to strap your camera to your wrist.

Even if you are primarily going to Breckenridge to ski, make sure you take a stroll around the shops. These are really a big part of the experience, with lots of small boutiques and family-owned shops that you would simply never get a chance to see anywhere else. Everything looks incredible at Christmas time. There's a local toy store, which is very popular, and the lights and decorations look incredible against the mountain backdrop. As well as all the latest ski gear and toys, you can buy art, rent bicycles and find lots of great gifts to take home to your friends and family.

Related post:  The 4 Best Family Hiking Trails In North America

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5 Great Hotels In Sydney Australia

Sydney, home to 4.2 million inhabitants is one of the nicest places on earth. Its beauty is breath taking and is ideal for any one who wants to take a break from his or her busy schedule and relax during a weekend. There are golden beaches, super luxury shopping malls, restaurants serving all kinds of food and wine to suite any nationality in Sydney. The night life is glamorous and there are Casinos and Pubs available to please the tourists arriving here.

Accommodation in Sydney is affordable and there are world class five star hotels with all common amenities available to suite all your needs. Read on to get an in depth analysis about the accommodation options available to the tourists arriving in Sydney. 

Quay West Suites

Are you looking to stay near the historic rocks region in the city? Then you should try "Quay West Suites". It is a five star luxury hotel adjoining the famous Sydney Harbor, which is spacious and includes all the features and amenities to suite your needs. The location is historic and, as you open the window you would see the historic rocks on one side and the harbor on the other. The fresh cool breeze flowing from the harbor would mesmerize your whole being. The hotel has fully equipped kitchens and on site laundering, which would make your room at Quay West Suites your home away from home.

"Blue Sydney" is a part of the famous Taj Group and is the city's only over water hotel. It is a deluxe five star luxury hotel and located on the Wharf at Woolloomooloo. Blue Sydney could be accessed by a ten minute walk from the famous Opera House in Sydney. This hotel has 100 stylish, luxurious rooms well suited for business and pleasure and is a mixture of a charming boutique hotel and an international, luxury five star hotels. High speed internet is available in all rooms and a lap pool and a gym is available for your pleasure. 

Hilton Sydney

The famous "Hilton" hotels group has one of its branches in Sydney too. As one of the top hotels in the world the services and amenities in Hilton is fabulous as always. Great dining, wining and entertainment are on the cards and will not disappoint you. Alysium Spa and Living Well Health Club will take care of your health and wellbeing during your stay at the Hilton. There are fully equipped gyms to take care of your physical fitness too.

Another luxury hotel that is located in the historic rocks region is the Shangri-La hotel. A part of the world famous Shangri-La group. It could be accessed from the Sydney Opera House and the Maritime Museum of Sydney. Shangri-La is a bit more expensive than the other hotels listed here, but it boasts of services such as beauty salons and masseuse on-site. There is a gym, indoor heated pool and sauna available for guests. Panoramic view of Sydney could be seen right from the hotel's bar. Internet is available in all rooms. 

The Four Points Hotel in Sydney

"The Four Points Hotel", managed by the famous Sheraton Group is another luxurious, five star hotel that offers an incredible view. When you open the window from a deluxe room you will be looking over the Cockle Bay and Darling Harbor. On the opposite side you would find standard rooms. The view from the standard room is of the Sydney city. All rooms are equipped with internet facilities. There is a gym to keep you fit and saunas to make you sweat. Child care and dry cleaning facilities are offered by the hotel.

The above listed hotels are a few of Sydney's heritage of luxurious, five star accommodations. There are much more fine hotels available for tourists to enjoy their stay and visit important historic places in this beautiful city of Australia.

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6 Great Sights in Galway, Ireland – Don’t Miss Them!

Also known as the City of Tribes, Galway is one of the most popular tourist destinations in West Ireland. It is Ireland’s fifth largest city with a population of over 700,000 people. Fourteen tribes lead the city during the ancient times and their names were used in the streets and landmarks. You will surely enjoy numerous tourist attractions and the fantastic nightlife, as you will great attractions throughout Europe. For aspiring travelers, Galway is a must-see place. Their diverse culture and historic background will never bore you. Here are the top 6 tourist spots that you have to visit.

1. Spanish Arch and Medieval Walls

Looking for a historic landmark? The Spanish Arch is one of the few remaining ancient defense in the town. You can enjoy the view of the Corrib flow out to Galway bay. Sit back and relax while digesting the beauty and comfort of nature.

2. Galway Cathedral

Built in 1858, this youngest cathedral has 44 meter s high and a green roof. The full name of this church is Catholic Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into heaven and St. Nicholas. Most of the materials used in the construction of this vintage cathedral were within local vicinity. The walls are intricate and the stained glass art are very enticing.

3. Bridge Mills

This 430 year old structure is now a center of culture. It is distinct because of the variety it offers. Cuisines, gifts, finely crafted clothing, an art gallery and a language school can be witnessed in this landmark.

4. Eyre Square

If you want to stroll around, this place is for you. Green grass and sturdy trees can be viewed by walking along this park. The vast space will relax you and will help you unwind. At night, there are pubs nearby that you can visit.

5. Kenny Gallery

Art lovers will surely enjoy the pieces displayed in this building. The exhibit embodies the culture and practices of Galway. Both the place and the artworks are high class.

6. Galway Market

Want to have a unique experience, find local produce and finely created craft by visiting this market. There are a wide variety of stalls available. Some sell fruits, food, crafts, artworks, clothing, etc. Shoppers will definitely enjoy their tour in this market, and will most likely find great cultural gifts to take home. 

Car Hire Transportation

If you want to maximize your trip to Galway, you should prefer your own transportation. You can arrive in the abovementioned sights through buses, but you will be limited to the schedules and destinations they provide. If you want to fully familize yourself with these awesome sites, you can drive around Galway in a hire car. With the freedom of your own wheels, you can be fully exposed to Galway’s culture and practices. Booking your own car with Enterprise Rent-A-Car, for example, would be more comfortable than waiting for a bus.  Just make sure that you will not spend much on parking because some parking spaces are expensive. You can do this on a great budget. Choose what is best for you and gives you the maximum freedom on your vacation. 

Hotel and Lodging

There are a lot of hotels in Galway, cheap and expensive. If you have tight budget, there are a couple of hotels for you. You will not have a problem with your stay because everything is accessible and affordable. You don’t have to worry about anything.

So pack your bags and get ready for an exciting adventure to Galway. These 6 amazing sites will surely satisfy all your senses. You will not regret that you chose Galway as your vacation destination.

Photo credits: photo one, photo two, photo three.

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Top London Christmas Markets to Visit This Year

There are two possible responses to being told how many shopping days are left until Christmas.  Response number one involves flat panic and a hastily written Christmas list.  Response number two is a happy little smile to yourself because you know that it's getting a little closer to Christmas market time.  Here, in the UK, we're very lucky as there's a long tradition of these wonderful seasonal events and if you plan ahead, you can get to quite a few.

Since most of the Christmas markets take place at around the same time, the best way to ensure you get a chance to visit as many as possible is to find an area where there are several markets and book yourself into a hotel for a few days.  Naturally, there are a lot of Christmas markets in the London area, so with Heathrow Hotel and parking within range of all of them, it's an ideal location for the well-organised Christmas shopper.

One of the most popular Christmas markets takes place at the Southbank Centre in London, from mid November to Christmas Eve, including traditional German style stalls and decorations.  After all, who does Christmas better?  In a range of chalets, you will find beautifully crafted Christmas items while choir performances get you into the festive spirit.  Over in Hyde Park, a whole section of the park is set aside for the Winter Wonderland Christmas Market from late November until early December, so you can shop early for next year as well!  With seasonal lights, Christmas craft stalls, amusement rides and an ice-rink, it doesn't have to be all about the Christmas shopping; you can make time for other kinds of fun, too.

If you arrange for your tour of the Christmas markets to include the last day of November and the first day of December, you can stop off at the Chelsea Physic Garden Christmas Fair, where you can wander around their heated marquees, buying unique jewellery, clothing, seasonal foods and other

gifts, including garden-related items.  You might even want to taste the house speciality of game stew, followed by a few mince pies. 

One place that really knows how to get shoppers into the right frame of mind is Covent Garden.  Although their market, which opens in late November, is focused on the piazza, the smaller roads radiating from the piazza also share in the festivities.  There's a mulled wine hut that also serves hot apple juice for the drivers, as well as a wealth of stalls where you can tick off plenty of your Christmas gift needs before you pay a visit to the chocolate bar to reward your hard work.  If you've brought the children with you, they will surely want to pet the reindeer or visit one of the Christmas craft workshops that help to make this into such a special occasion for all ages.

The key to a good Christmas is to plan ahead so you don't end up doing everything at the last minute.  With these and many other markets and fairs within driving distance of Heathrow, without the need to travel to the other side of the world, being organised has never been more enjoyable. 

Related post: Vacation in Europe? Here is Where to Stay

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Newcastle's Critically-Acclaimed Restaurants

Whether I'm planning a weekend away or a long holiday, I always intend to eat out in style - at least once or twice! Although many great destinations in the UK offer great food, recently, I had found out that  in Newcastle there are some truly fantastic restaurants - so much so that I really did feel the craving. Many of these have received a fair amount of critical acclaim, and it's these I'll be focusing on for the purposes of this post.

Cafe 21

Where: Trinity Gardens, Quayside

Once upon a time, this lovely restaurant was located at 21 Queen Street, from where it takes its name.
After spending 19 years there, it moved to its new home on the Quayside with its sleek, modern decor that creates a fantastically swish, upmarket atmosphere.

What I most like about this restaurant is that while it's a very sophisticated setting, it offers very honest, fuss-free food, aiming to bring out the best in the ingredients. Here, you'll eat classic bistro fare - though lots of dishes do have a unique contemporary twist.

To give you a taste of what you can expect, starters include a cheddar cheese and spinach souffle, and mains like fish stews, pan-roasted cod and roasted duck breast are available. My favorite course, dessert, gives you a choice of creme brulee, hot raspberry souffle, Tanzanian chocolate mousse and more.

It's also worth bearing in mind that this restaurant snapped up a Gold Award at the Taste of North East England Awards 2008.

Blackfriars Restaurant and Banquet Hall

Where: Friars Street

It's not every day you can say that you've eaten in the oldest dining room in England, but that's exactly what you can do if you eat at Blackfriars Restaurant. Located in a friary that dates all the way

back to 1239, this eatery makes the very best use of its setting by offering medieval banquets as well as an a la carte menu filled with British classics.

What's more, it's won a host of awards for its culinary prowess, including a Taste of England award in both 2013 and 2012. The dishes here are made with locally sourced food (often from the nearby farms) and include treats like beetroot risotto, Durham pork fillet and Cumbrian stuffed chicken breast. Sweet-toothed individuals like myself can look forward to some really classic desserts - as well as traditional dishes with a twist - like dark chocolate fondant, sticky toffee pudding and cherry bakewell cheesecake.

Just as a quick tip, this restaurant is open for lunch and dinner every day, with the exception of Sundays when there's no evening service.

Jesmond Dene House Restaurant

Where: Jesmond Dene Road

My final suggestion is in one of Newcastle'shotels; the Jesmond Dene House Restaurant is easily one of the finest in the city, and it serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. And don't worry, you don't need to

be a guest at the hotel in order to eat here.

Boasting three AA Rosettes, it's one of the top places to eat in Newcastle. I think one of the best things about this restaurant is that it has a strong focus on fresh, local food and even uses produce sourced from the hotel garden. So, you can expect to enjoy some incredible flavours.

Alongside the three main meals, afternoon tea is also available here, as well as an excellent tasting menu. The dinner menu, meanwhile, features treats such as garden pea soup, seared hand-dived Scottish scallops, fillet of beef and chocolate gateau.
As a traveler, we always try to select great places not only to enjoy the food but also to avoid stomach problems travelers face from time to time. Selecting great restaurants is important and usually is it advisable to go by recommendation.

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Get the Romance Going - 3 Great Resorts for Couples

Are you looking for some honeymoon destinations or want to spend romantic time with your partner? Think lot of times before finalizing a deal somewhere. It's this romantic time that matters the most in your life. This time is never going to come again. In cases as these, money is a second thing. But the Romance should get going. Let's have a look at 3 great couple resorts that are crafted in such a way that even if you don't know how to be romantic, it just bring it to your naturally.

A. Go Romantic with the newly renovated resort of La Plantation d'Albion:
La Plantation d'Albion is a resort built on the west coast of Mauritius islands. The Republic of Mauritius is famous for lovely beaches and the islands which you can enjoy even at this resort. It's a Club Med Resort built with Epicurean delights, surrounded by nature. Whether it is mountains with rocks, lovely seashores or wonderful forests, this resort is surrounded by all of them. The architecture and the interiors of this resort are best in the world. It is built with wonderful swimming pools, bars and restaurants that are exotic and full with luxury. You can spend valuable private time with your partner if you are on honeymoon or vacations. La Plantation d'Albion has everything the Mauritius can offer you.

B. Enjoy carefree vacation at Club Med Cancun Yucatan:
If you want a carefree all-inclusive vacation with you partner, travel to Club Med Cancun Yucatan. This resort is located in the north of Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico and is named one of the best resort for couples and families. It's a unique couples resort ideally for newly wedded ones as well as for the one interested in spending romantic time. You can relax on white sandy beaches with your partner, enjoy water skiing, go for scuba diving and adventure flying trapeze. This resort has everything that you would dream of-natural surroundings, awesome atmosphere inside and luxury. Opt for this one if your target of vacation is Mexico.

C. Discover exotic charm & Go romantic Club Med Bali:
Going to Southeast Asia? A innovative beach resort surrounded by rice paddy fields, temples, gardens and swimming pools in Indonesia- that's what Club Med Bali is all about. It's an exotic resort that can provide you eternal peace. It's ideal romantic destination of Indonesia. You can enjoy playing in famous golf courses, have Spa treatments at Club Med Spa and enjoy the authentic flavors of Balinese cuisine. Club Med Bali is a must visit resort especially if you are on a honeymoon. This resort is so beautiful that you won't like going back from here and even if you have to, the memories remains forever.

Gift your partner a surprise trip to any of this 3 resorts amidst nature and enjoy the luxury with simplicity and lavishness of this resorts. Simply great resorts to die for. Spend some value time in this resorts. Love the nature, Make love to your partner with nature, relax on the beaches, enjoy thrilling adventure & keep the romance going.

Related post:  Top 3 Ski Resorts in France

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Singapore Outside The Casino- Family Travel Guide

Singapore is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South East Asia. Tourism is a major contributor to Singapore. It attracted over 11 million visitors in 2012. There are wide options for doing a variety of activities in Singapore. Some tourist attractions are very well known where as some of them are little known. Singapore is a popular place for family activities like Shopping, Zoo, Eating etc.

Sentosa

Sentosa is a place which no tourist in Singapore would ever miss. It is an island resort with beach, theme parks, hotels. Fort Siloso is located in Sentosa. It is now a museum and open to public. There are also two golf courses in Sentosa. There are some famous attractions like Songs of the Sea, Sentosa Monorail, in Sentosa. The theme park is Universal Studios Singapore. There are lot of outlets within Universal Studios which sell Hollywood merchandise. Models of popular movies like Madagascar, Jurassic Park, The Lost World etc are housed in the Universal Studios.Apart from Sentosa, the bird park and night safari are popular family attractions. The bird park is a bird zoo with a wide range of bird species. The night safari is a nocturnal park and allows visitors to explore the zoo in the night.

Marina Bay

Singapore is a great destination for shopping. There are many places like Orchard Street, Marina Bay, Bugis, China town, Little India etc. Orchard street is one of the best places to shop for high end fashion goods. Designer brands such as Gucci, Versace, Armani have a presence in Orchard Street. Marina Bay is famous for the symbol of Singapore, the Merlion. Bugis street, China town and Little India are great for street shopping. Bugis is famous for a wide range of accessories bags, watches etc. China town is famous for Chinese made stuff, Feng Shui, etc. Little India is great for shopping for Indian goods, spices, restaurants. Arab street is famous for Arab food.

Singapore is a vibrant country with a wide range of culinary options. Hawker centers spread across Singapore are a great way to explore local food. Though Singapore cuisine derives from Chinese, Malay and Indian food, there are some dishes which are specific to Singapore. One such culinary delight is the Kaya toast which is a simple toast made of eggs, sugar and coconut milk. Another common dish is Laksa which is a popular noodle soup. The Durian fruit which has a pungent odor is also local to Singapore. Depending on their interests, tourists can engage in elaborate culinary indulgences.

Singapore Museum

Some little visited places in Singapore are the museum and the philatelic museum. The Philatelic museum is a museum of stamps and postage material of Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. It is located near the Armenian Street.The Clarke Quay and Boat Quay are great places to explore the nightlife in Singapore. Apart from the tourist attractions within its boundaries, Singapore is also close to Malaysia. The Legoland Malaysia is located in Nusajaya, Johor. The famous islands of Bintan and Batam in Indonesia are also accessible via a ferry ride from Singapore. Overall, Singapore is a vibrant city with a variety of options to embark on various activities.

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Top 3 Ski Resorts in France

When it comes to skiing holidays, France is the country that usually pops into my head first. After all, it's pretty famous for its amazingresorts, plus it's nice and easy to get to - and if that's not a winning combination, I'm not sure what is! Of course, the nation's home to a fair few skiing destinations, which means deciding exactly where to go can take longer than you think, especially if, like me, you tend to be quite indecisive.

So, I thought I'd help you out by putting together a list of my top three ski resorts in France. Hopefully, this will set your holiday planning off to a good start. And if any of the below do take your fancy, you can find out more about accommodation and such at companies like Snowchateaux.

1) Tignes

If you're looking for a snow-sure resort, you're not going to do any better than Tignes. Located in the Espace Killy region, it offers skiing from an impressive 3,450 m on the Grand Motte Glacier.

Its snow-sure qualities are one of the key reasons I selected it, but there are more. Personally, I think one of the very best things about Tignes is the simple fact that it's so varied. From lively apres-ski and unusual activities to renowned pistes and an extensive, exceptionally well put together lift system, it really does seem to have it all.

Among my favourite Tignes facts is that you can ski to Val d'Isere - another top ski resort - in just 20 minutes. So, if you come to Tignes, you essentially have the slopes of Val d'Isere at your disposal too, which is a pretty exciting thought.

I also love the fact that there's so much else you can do here, like going ice driving and attempting snowshoe treks. After all, it's always nice to try something a bit different while you're on holiday.

2) La Plagne

Next on my list is La Plagne, a fantastic resort in the valley of the Tarentaise, which is in the Savoie region of France. Forming one half of the vast Paradiski area, La Plagne is home to 225 km of pistes, where you'll find 15 black runs, alongside 72 blue and 10 green. Plus, there's a sizeable off-piste area, as well as a new snow park - 7cube.

It's also worth remembering that La Plagne is one of the highest resorts on the continent (sitting between 1,250 m and 3,250 m), so it's a snow-sure destination. In terms of its layout, La Plagne is spread across four main communes, which it is possibly simplest to look at as mini resorts in themselves. These are Champagny-en-Vanoise, Macot-la-Plagne, Aime and Bellestre.

3) Les Arcs

Last on my list is the famous Les Arcs, which is one of France's best-known ski resorts. What you might not already know, however, is that this forms the other half of the Paradiski area, and from here you can reach the aforementioned La Plagne in just four minutes, as the two are connected by the world's fastest cable car.

What's great about Les Arcs is the variety it offers. Boasting some 200 km of pistes, it has open runs and tree runs, as well as a 7 km long piste that descends 2,026 m. There's also 30 km of cross-country skiing, good snow schools - including Ecole de Ski Francais - and guaranteed snow throughout the season.

Plus, there are traditional villages offering accommodation here, as well as four purpose-built resorts that are more modern. Wherever you choose to stay, though, you'll generally find the local area puts on lots of great events, like firework displays and film screenings.

Related post: 6 Great Family Destinations in the UK

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Worshipping the sun in Menorca

Sun lovers don't need to be told about the merits of holidays to Menorca. The second largest of the Balearic Islands, it is famed the world over for its sunny climate, which is apparent almost the whole year around. In the summer months you can expect as many as ten to 11 hours of sunshine a day, but even in the winter, it's possible to work on your tan, with three to four hours of quality sunshine a day and temperatures in the teens – not bad for December and January!

More tranquil than its larger sibling Majorca, the island offers the opportunity to enjoy roasting temperatures and laze on the beach in relative calm. Click throughfor a comprehensive selection of packages you can get for holidays on the island. In the meantime, let's look at everything you need to know about the island.

When to visit?

As we mentioned, Menorca is a sunseeker's paradise and June through to September is the peak of the summer, when temperatures are usually in the late twenties or sometimes the early thirties and you can expect more than ten hours of uninterrupted sunshine every day. For this reason, it's certainly popular with families looking to get away during the school holidays. If you don't have kids, a good time to go is in September, when schools in the UK reconvene for the new academic year. You'll find that it can be just as blistering at this point of the year as it is earlier in the summer and there's typically about eight hours of sunshine a day to enjoy.

Taking advantage of the sun

With el sol shining so brightly on Menorca, you don't need to worry about any of it going to waste. In fact, whenever you choose to visit you'll have plenty of opportunity to soak up the rays. Punta Prima to the east of Sant Lluis is a beautiful beach with flawless white sand. If you walk to its eastern end, there are also plenty of rocks to make things interesting. Here you can enjoy the usual swimming and beach sports, while there are some great bars dotted along the shore. Alternatively, why not try out Son Bou, which is south of Alaior and serves as one of Menorca's longest stretches of uninterrupted beach. Here, you'll find beach bars, sun beds and access to all the water sports you'd expect, while lifeguards are also on hand for added peace of mind.

Picking a resort

You're bound to be surrounded by beaches and attractions wherever you choose to stay in Menorca and access shouldn't be a problem thanks to the size of the island. Some of the best resorts can be found at the aforementioned Son Bou, which is on the island's southern coast. Cala Blanca is worth considering for its position at the foot of an exquisite bay on the islands northern side. If you wish to stay close to Port Mahon, then consider Binibeca, which is the definition of island paradise.

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