Galapagos Tours Are Best Enjoyed In Galapagos Cruises

Galapagos Islands is the only place of its kind in the world. These secret islands have many Galapagos tours and Galapagos cruises that vary, but this astonishing natural wonder has something for everyone to enjoy and revel. You can experience the unusual volcanic landscape, an unbelievable array of marine life, and the peculiar animals on a Galapagos holiday.

Galapagos Tours

Galapagos tours offer absolute adventure, refreshment and ultimate expeditions. Rich flora and fauna are its supreme privileges. You can get up, close, and personal with sharks, tortoise, and other such aquatic animals while swimming, snorkeling, or diving. If you are one of those, who loves watching birds flying in the vast sky, a tour to Galapagos is sure to give you more than what you may have imagined. These islands have unique and rare species of birds to add to its kitty of unusual wildlife.

The dense peaceful woods let people spend a part of their holiday time in solitude. Some people indeed want to enjoy a few days in the year in some solitary island that is equipped with unexpected things in every step they take in the location. This dream vacation is free from any security related issues and thus every tourist finds this place very secured, safe, luxurious, comfortable, and peaceful having unforgettable memories.

Galapagos Cruises

Galapagos cruises are popularly known as floating resorts that take tourists all through the islands in the most luxurious manner. The beverages and food served in these cruises are one-of-a-kind with impeccable services. The best way in which the variety of these islands can be absorbed is through embarking on a Galapagos cruise. These will allow you to see how the animals differ from place to place. You may even be able to notice the variations of finches from island to island just as Charles Darwin did on his famous voyage in the nineteenth century.

In addition to all this, the Galapagos cruises are well known for their services and hospitality. They offer the best living and dining facilities, and there will always be an attentive crew member ready to take care of the whole family’s needs individually. If one happens to be interested in learning more about any specific aspect of these islands, they can also get in touch with one of the naturalists.

Galapagos Islands is said to offer impeccable services and hospitality. In addition to these, they also offer the best living and dining facilities. The attentive crew members in the cruises are ready to take care of your needs individually. If you are interested in learning more about these islands while enjoying at the same time, you ought to visit these islands to have a lifetime experience!

Grand Canyon Helis – Enjoying a Tour Over the Fall Holiday Season

There may be a cold nip in the air, but there is still plenty of time left for another fun outdoor adventure. Summer may be gone, but cooler weather has its perks. The weather has calmed down and the air is crystal clear, so there is no better time to take an air tour of the amazing Grand Canyon.

Lift Off

These fun tours set off from two different locations. Tours take off from Arizona in Tusayan, which is near the South Rim, and from the Vegas Strip and Boulder City in Nevada. The tours are a little different in each location, so lets see what they entail.

Vegas Area Tours

Las Vegas is about 100 miles from the West Rim. When you fly from Vegas to the West Rim, you’ll get an aerial view of the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead too. You can take an air-only tour out of Vegas or you can take a landing tour where you are dropped off at the canyon for some fun.

If you pick a landing tour, you can decide if you want to land on the top of the rim or if you want to fly down into the canyon and land on the bottom. The choppers that land on the canyon floor let you out near the Colorado River, which is the force responsible for carving out the canyon in ancient times. A champagne picnic awaits you on the bottom of the canyon, and when you finish your snack, you can take a relaxing boat ride along the river.

If you’re going to book a landing tour that sets down on top of the rim, be sure to buy tickets to the Grand Canyon Skywalk too. The Skywalk is an interesting structure made of huge glass panels you can walk out on and peer down to the canyon floor 4000 feet below you.

Air-only tours are fun too, and although you’ll miss out on fun adventures on the ground, you’ll still see all the highlights from the air.

South Rim Tours Departing From Arizona

Although most tours depart from Vegas, you can start a tour in Tusayan if you’ll be staying in Arizona or if you want to tour the South Rim instead of the West Rim. If you are in Vegas and want to take a tour of the South Rim, you can book a tour package that comes with an airplane ride to Tusayan where you can transfer to your South Rim tour.

The South Rim has two tours to choose from. One is a thirty-minute flight that goes from the South Rim to the North Rim and then comes back. The other option is an hour long tour that covers the same ground as the shorter tour and then some. This flight also goes all the way to the eastern park border, and in total it flies over 3/4 of the National Park.

The longer tour is definitely worth the small increase in price because you get to see so much more. Not a lot of people can say they’ve seen that much of the Grand Canyon.

Choosing The Deluxe Tour

You’ll also have to decide if you want to take the basic tour or if you want to upgrade to the deluxe version. The basic tours fly on older-style helicopters while the deluxe tours fly on modern sightseeing aircraft.

My Favorite Las Vegas Thanksgiving Bus Tours To The Grand Canyon

Vegas is such a great place to visit because it has so many exciting things to see and do. It’s also the most popular place from where you can set off on a Grand Canyon bus adventure. You can take a tour any time of year, so if you want to make this Thanksgiving break special, why not take a trip to Vegas and include a canyon tour?

There are tours that go to both the West Rim and the South Rim. The West Rim is closer to Vegas and you can get there in about 2 1/2 hours by bus. The ride to the South Rim takes a lot longer since the rim is situated in Arizona, so it takes about 5 1/2 hours to get there. Tours include lunch, and there are no hidden fees for taxes or other charges.

Tours That Go To The West Rim

The West Rim is the most popular part of the Canyon to visit, partly because it is closest to Vegas and partly because of all the fun adventures you can have there. The area is part of an Indian Reservation for the Hualapai people. The Hualapai administer some of the attractions in the area too.

The Skywalk is one of the most famous of these attractions. It is a huge structure made of glass that juts out 70 feet past the edge of the rim and hangs over the canyon. You can look through the transparent floor to the bottom of the Canyon and the Colorado River that flows 4000 feet below you.

Even though it takes a while to ride to the Canyon when you go by bus, you’ll see lots of interesting sights along the way, including the Hoover Dam. Once you arrive at the park, you’ll be given three hours to explore on your own, which is plenty of time to take a helicopter ride to the bottom of the Canyon.

South Rim Bus Tours

Although there aren’t as many options at the South Rim, there is just as much to see. You can even add on a helicopter flight to you bus tour. One helicopter tour is a 30-minute flight that goes to the North Rim and back, and another 50-minute tour flies to the North Rim and over to the eastern edge of the park before flying back to the South Rim. The South Rim is home to many famous landmarks, including Dragoon Corridor, which is the deepest and widest part of the Canyon. You will be able to see it close up on board a helicopter. Also, buses that go to the South Rim make a quick stop at Hoover Dam just like the West Rim buses.

Deluxe Tours

The basic bus tours carry around 40 passengers each trip, but there is a deluxe option you can choose instead. The deluxe tours use smaller vehicles that only take 12 people per trip, so they are great if you want more comfort and privacy on your tour.

Get The Best Deals Online

Booking online is not only convenient, but it will also allow for you to take advantage of the best tour deals. You’ll find the lowest prices on the tour operator’s website because there are no added fees and commissions from third party sellers tacked on. Just buy your tour online with your credit card, and you’ll lock in your seat reservations and low price. That being said, tours are incredibly popular, so you will need to book early to ensure that you won’t be disappointed on Thanksgiving. Try to book your seats about two weeks in advance if possible .

Conclusion

A Thanksgiving tour will make this holiday one to remember. Remember that you have plenty of options, whether you want to go West Rim or South Rim, Deluxe or Standard. Book online, book early, and use your credit card for the best deals and a confirmed booking. Your tour of the Canyon is sure to be one you’ll remember, and going by bus makes the tour affordable and leisurely, so you can enjoy every minute.

Find Wonderful Walking Tours

You can do the average things on any trip, or you are able to appear close to for something a bit distinct regardless of whether you happen to be going alone, having a partner, or together with your loved ones. Getaway spots like amusement parks are excellent and make for a memorable family vacation, but you may have had sufficient of that and desire to look for out anything diverse. You may even would like to acquire a vacation that will be plenty of fun but that may possibly also conserve you funds. There are many organized walking tours available that you can take, or it is possible to appear up together with your very own.

Walking tours generally contain sightseeing on foot, since the term would recommend. These are not your typical walks by way of any town or town. Some of these are taken by way of a few of the world’s most famous locations, and others are heading as a result of items that you’ve never heard of and may perhaps by no means see unless you consider some of these walking tours. Not only will you see amazing points, it is possible to get some properly needed exercise although that you are on vacation without overdoing it. It’s far more relaxing than you think. A prolonged walk will seem brief when you’re viewing issues that stir the imagination and fulfill a sense of adventure.

In the event you want to see a few of the best sights within the planet, maybe a few of the top normal and man made wonders with the globe, you must see if it is possible to find walking tours to determine them. Did you know you can climb the Sydney Harbour bridge in Australia? It is not for that faint at heart, but should you do it, you can see a view most others can only see in photographs. Sydney, like many other international cities, has walking tours of quite a few attractions that individuals come from all over the planet to see.

You’ll be able to find walking tours in metropolitan areas that have a hidden past. Some cities have secrets that are not well-known, but you possibly can know them via these tours. There is an underground town in Seattle that use being Seattle proper. Mainly because the town was built so low, it generally flooded. The town was literally constructed up over the old city, and a few of that aged city remains. How very much of that you simply can see today depends around the condition of this location, but you are able to absolutely inquire about walking tours of the unique town.

You will find surely walking tour opportunities in most metropolitan areas and even parks or other rural locations. However, that does not mean you’ve to limit your self to what you see by way of an on the web travel website. It is possible to see what you possibly can find out about any town or area after which it occur up with your personal walking tours. Find a hotel close to wherever you would like to go, and build your private family vacation from your ground up. You possibly can most undoubtedly possess a enjoyable and unique vacation experience this way. You possibly can also find other tips from people who have appear up with their private experiences by reading their on the web postings and travel blogs.

College Tours in the Mid South (1)

Since publishing an article about college tours of Southern universities and state colleges in Virginia I have fielded several inquiries about college tours for the Mid-south. In response, I recently developed an itinerary designed for college bound high school juniors and seniors that focuses on colleges in Tennessee, Alabama and Kentucky. There are some excellent universities in each of these states. Students come from all over the United States and across the world to attend these well-known colleges.

A trip leader, usually a teacher or guidance counselor, brings a group of high school juniors and seniors on this type of tour. The student group has a chance to tour the campus, see residence halls, classrooms and student centers and speak to other students about the experience of attending college there. In the evenings, students usually have an opportunity to explore the town or city. This includes dining, shopping and entertainment near the university. Its important that college bound students have a better feel for the town they will live in for four years or more.

University of Memphis, Memphis, TN
Established in 1912 as the West Tennessee Normal School, the University of Memphis is now affectionately known as U of M and is the flagship school in the Tennessee Board of Regents system. U of M enrolls about 22,000 students and is situated in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee. Academic programs range from African & African American Studies to Banking and Financial Services and Correctional Administration, Dance, Environmental Engineering and Technology Management Services. The campus is characterized by contemporary architecture, with the most recent building spurt occurring in the 1990s.

University of Tennessee, Knoxville TN
Situated in the Appalachian city of Knoxville, University of Tennessee is the flagship school of the state university system. In 2012 Forbes magazine cited University of Tennessee as one of “Americas Best Colleges.” The Princeton Review also listed UT as one of the “150 Best Value Colleges.” UT is well known for the College of Arts and the Sciences and colleges of: Business, Engineering and Law. Approximately 25,000 students are enrolled full-time at the University of Tennessee. The campus sits on a hill -offering a nice perspective of the Smoky Mountains and the City of Knoxville, Tennessee.

Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN
Named after the main benefactor, Cornelius Vanderbilt, Vanderbilt University was funded with an initial $1,000,000 donation in 1873. The university serves approximately 12,000 full-time undergraduate and graduate students. Nearly 90% of all undergraduate students live on campus, creating a fun, community atmosphere in a picturesque setting. Undergraduate tuition in 2011/2012 is $40,000, reflecting the universitys private status. Vanderbilt is best known for the MBA program and the School of Medicine. Vanderbilts School of Medicine and business programs have employed five Nobel Laureates. U.S. News and World Report has ranked Vanderbilt University as 17th among the best national universities.

University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL
The University of Alabama was founded in 1831 and is the states first public university, serving over 31,000 students annually. It has been cited by Kiplingers annual list of colleges and universities as one of the top 100 schools that offers “great academics and affordable tuition.” UA has been ranked in the top 50 in U.S. News and World Reports annual college rankings for 10 years. In the last 9 years, over 40 new facilities have been added or upgraded, giving the campus a contemporary look and feel, while retaining the original buildings from the 19th Century. UA is known for the School of Law and Engineering and the debate and forensics programs have won 16 national debate championships. Tuscaloosa was formerly the capital of Alabama and is a city of approximately 90,000 people with much to offer the college student who resides there.

Auburn University, Auburn AL
Founded in 1856 as an all male school, Auburn University is now co-ed. There are approximately 25,000 students enrolled and 140 degree programs to choose from. The university is known for its agricultural studies, Teacher Education and Wildlife Sciences programs. The town of Auburn has a population of approximately 40,000 people and is only 50 miles from Montgomery, Alabama and 115 miles from Atlanta, Georgia. Auburn is bike friendly and offers a wide variety of places to eat and things to do.

University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
The University of Kentucky is located in Lexington, a bustling mid-sized Southern city of just under 300,000 people. The university currently has 28,000 students enrolled and is the flagship land-grant institution of Kentucky. Known for the college athletics football and basketball teams, the Wildcats, UKs colors are blue and white and the student body and community enthusiastically support their beloved teams. UKs most popular fields of study are: Arts and Sciences, Business and Economics and Agriculture. For in-state students, the tuition is still very affordable, at approximately $8,000 for undergraduates for one academic year.

This is the suggested itinerary for the Mid South College Tour. Trip leaders can request variations of this tour, which can be easily modified. For example, when a student group visits University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, a trip leader may want to exercise the option to visit Alabama State University in Montgomery. Or, when groups visit Vanderbilt University in Nashville, they may also want to visit Fisk and Tennessee State Universities.

College tours are a great way to inspire college bound high school students to begin thinking about and planning where they want to obtain their degrees.

For more information about college tours across the U.S. visit: http://www.educationaltravelconsultants.com.

Types of Grand Canyon South Rim Helicopter Tours

South Rim helicopter tours are definitely the very best way to enjoy the National Park. These flights easily pack into 30 minutes what might take days on the ground. There are a restricted number of trips to choose from, but all of them will leave you with a memorable canyon experience.

Grand Canyon National Park is located in Northern Arizona near the Utah border. The Park is approximately 5.5 hours from Las Vegas and the Phoenix-Scottsdale metro area.

There aren’t any direct helicopter air flights to the South Rim from Vegas. You will have to bundle a helicopter excursion with either an airplane flight or tour bus ride. Personally, I suggest the aircraft option.

From Phoenix, I recommend you self-drive. Flights to Flagstaff are prohibitively costly. Besides, the drive up is quite beautiful, especially if you stopover in Sedona for lunch or as an overnight vacation spot.

This rim’s trips leave from Grand Canyon Airport, AZ, which is minutes from the Park’s front gates in the town of Tusayan. Three tour operators are based there: Grand Canyon Helicopters, Maverick Helicopters, and Papillon Helicopters

I recommend Papillon based upon their commitment to quality, safety and price.

National Park air space is rigorously controlled, so there is no below-the-rim or bottom-landing helicopter rides at the South Rim. For that, you’ll need to depart from Vegas.

Here at South Rim, you have a basic flight as well as a deluxe one. Here are specifics:

Basic Chopper Tour. Leaves daily. Flies over Kaibab National Forest and enters the Dragoon Corridor, the widest, deepest part of the canyon, before turning back at the North Rim. Flight time is a half hour.

Deluxe Chopper Tour. Identical to above except you do it in a state-of-the-art EcoStar 130. This airplane includes 25 percent more cabin space, theater-style seating, 180-degree windshield and a super-quiet ride.

I get a lot of queries about when you ought to fly. Morning is optimal. This is when the air is smoothest. You additionally get great visibility. And do dress for weather. Yes you will be in a helicopter the whole time. However, the canyon’s climate is one of extremes. Lastly, don’t forget to charge your smart phone or digital camera. Picture taking is unavoidable and you should make sure you’ve got a full charge.

South Rim tours are very popular activities. So much in fact that I am now recommending that travelers purchase them at least 72 hours or more ahead of time. I’m seeing a lot more sold-out trips nowadays, and, to be truthful, it is discouraging to show up at the airport and watch as others board their plane for the greatest show on earth.

Planning is everything, and so is finding the best deal. I tell family and friends to go straight to the web for the best rates. You can begin at Expedia and Travelocity but you’re wasting time. Find the sites of the businesses running these tours. It’s there where you’ll discover bargains that can save you up to 30 percent

I’m a big fan of these helicopter rides. Nothing touches them when it comes to providing you the most canyon for the dollar. Plus they’re great fun! So, as you schedule your canyon vacation, definitely add a helicopter trip to the mix. It’ll definitely be the spotlight of your trip.

The Best Travel Destination In Asia

If the time has come for your vacation or a holiday getaway, read this article before making your plans. There are many places of great beauty and interest to be seen in the USA and Europe. But, whether transportation, touring, theme park, or food and lodging, it is expensive. This article is written for every traveler, whether a backpacker on a budget, or a first class – five star traveler.

Travel in Asia is inexpensive and opens the door to different cultural experiences. Planning can be for a short holiday, an extended stay, or choices of laying the groundwork for the ultimate stay, retirement. Nowadays, with so many opportunities to make money using the Internet it is not out of the question to “retire” early.

Medical Tourism in Asia growing in popularity. It is high quality and affordable. Just one of International standard hospitals in Bangkok serves 400,000 international patients annually, In the USA cataract surgery for one eye runs around $8,000. At a prestigious International hospital in Thailand cataract surgery can be performed on both eyes for around $2,500. It is possible to have quality medical care, and an Asian holiday, for a fraction of the cost of the same procedure in the USA.

Let us take a tantalizing glimpse at just some of the countries.

Thailand – Land of Smiles. Often referred to as the most exotic country in Southeast Asia. A visit to the Grand Palace in Bangkok for sure. Trips to a floating market or to the Bridge on the River Kwai. From pristine beaches in the Southern Islands to the Northern mountains with its waterfalls, elephants bathing in mountain streams, and Hill Tribe villages.
India – Delhi is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world. India Gate, an imposing structure, has emerged as one of the most popular tourist spots in Delhi. The Red Fort Delhi, a masterpiece of architecture, is a popular spot. A trip to India would not be complete without a visit to Agra, famous as the site of one of the world’s most romantic, graceful and photographed buildings, the Taj Mahal.
Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos – Three small countries neighboring Thailand. Each opens a different world of exploration. Cambodia – the highlight is visiting Angkor Wat, an architectural masterpiece constructed in the jungle in the early 12th century. Vietnam – is a varied country, offering beaches, mountains and hundreds of years of history from the ancient Cham Towers to remnants from the Vietnam War. Laos – savor the crafts, culture and hospitality of Laos with a river trip, visits to ancient temples, gorgeous palaces, and traditional villages.

Nepal – Adventure, travel, trekking, birding, wildlife, and cultural & overland Safaris. Take an air flight along the Himalayas and view magnificent Mount Everest. Nearby, discover the serene beauty of Tibet, the country which inspired the Dalai Lama. .

Indonesia – Jakarta, the capital city of the world’s fourth most-populous nation. Bali is Indonesia’s main holiday destination. Flores is a pretty lush green island with forests, palm and banana trees, rice fields and many volcanoes. Highlights are the three small offshore islands of “Gillis” that invite snorkeling, diving and relaxing. For hikers, a climb to the top of the volcano Rijani.

Philippines – An island nation comprising over 7,000 islands in the western Pacific Ocean.
Manila, the bustling capital has powerful reminders of the country’s past, along with attractive parks, fine museums, and exhilarating nightlife. The Ifugao Rice Terraces
are a testimony to the early technological advancement of the Ifugao people. Take a jeepney ride to the market. Be brave, try balut, a Philippine delicacy. Go diving in the Visayas.

Singapore – Shopping on famous Orchard Road, the dream of every woman. The Night Safari at Singapore Zoo is fabulous. Chinatown, a little glitzy, but you can buy all the souvenirs you want there. Interestingly, one of Singapore’s most beautiful Hindu temples is smack dab in the middle of Chinatown. Decide if a Singapore Sling is worth the hype in the Long Bar at Raffles Hotel. There’s more to Singapore than urban glitz, like rambling in the rain forest of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.
Japan – Tokyo is the capital city and home of the Imperial Residence and Emperor’s Palace. Select a popular destination or region in Japan and explore its attractions. Ride the Bullet Train to the magnificent city of Kyoto. Visit Hiroshima and the Peace Memorial Park. Castles, temples, gardens, the list of top destinations in Japan is too long for this article..

Taiwan – Taipei, the country’s booming, vibrant capital remains steeped in Chinese, Japanese and native Taiwanese cultures. Some of its most impressive sights include the Grand Hotel, topped by the largest Classical Chinese roof in the world, the Shihlin Night Market, the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial with the National Theater and Concert Hall located directly across from each other on the grounds. A popular day trip is Tailuge (Taroko Gorge), considered one of the natural wonders of the world.

Hong Kong – the Pearl of East and jewel of The Orient. Nathan Road is lined with shops, restaurants, nightspots and cheap places to stay. If you’re in Hong Kong with the little ones, they’ll probably appreciate Ocean Park (aquarium), Water World (swimming pools and water slides), and of course Disneyland. If you’re in Hong Kong for more than a few days, then there’s plenty of outlying islands to discover.

It is often said that for the traveler that has seen it all and done it all, there is still Katmandu, Nepal. And, that too is in Asia!

If you do not visit Asia, you will be missing not only a paradise of affordable travel, but the chance to see an alternative living location. For retirees, it is luxury living for pennies, not just getting by on their pension. Asia, a paradise experience is waiting for you.

Guide To The Top Islands Of Italy

Long-legged Italy is situated in Southern Europe. Surrounded by the Adriatic, Ionian and Tyrrhenian seas and many islands including Capri, Sardinia, Elba and Sicily.

Sicily

Sicily, the largest island is located in the Mediterranean Sea. Access to Sicily is via air or sea. Although this could all change in the next few years as construction of the Messina Bridge, between mainland Italy and Sicily has been given the go-ahead.

Sicily is divided into 9 provinces and is also home to Mount Etna the largest active volcano in Europe. The island is steeped in history, dating back to the ancient times and right up to the Allied invasion of Sicily, World War II, 10th July 1943.

A popular holiday destination with people from the mainland, the island also attracts tourists from abroad. Sicily has so much to offer in the way of Art, Culture, Sport, Architecture and world heritage sites.

Sardinia

Sardinia is the second largest island and is situated in the Mediterranean Sea. You can get to Sardinia via air or sea. Once on the island you can choose from car, bus or train to see the sights.

Sardinia has a strong history dating back to pre-historic times, right up to Modern times.

Sardinia is a mountainous island, with a number of artificial lakes, Baratz, a fresh water lake, lagoons and Tirso the largest river on the island.

Italian is the main language, however Sardinian is also spoken with the two most well known dialects being Campidanese and Logudorese.

Sardinia is home to Su Nuraxi di Barumini world heritage site. It also has wildlife reserves, natural monuments and 3 National Parks.

More information can be had on the Sardinia website.

Capri

The island of Capri is situated in the Tyrrhenian sea. It is served by hydrofoil and ferry and is a popular resort destination for people from the mainland and abroad.

Archaelogical finds date inhabitants of the island back to the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. Roman Emperor Tiberius made Capri his home back in 27 CE and also conducted the daily business of the Roman Empire from there.

Once on the island, look out for Marina Piccola, the Belvedere of Tragara, Anacapri, Sea Stacks, ruins of the Imperial Roman Villas and Grotta Azzurra (the Blue Grotto).

Be sure and grab a ride on the Funicolare, a mountain tram from Marina Grande to Capri.

Elba

The island of Elba is located in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Known more as the place of exile of Napoleon I, Emperor of France. Napoleon stayed on Elba for 300 days. You will have an opportunity to have a look at his Summer and Winter homes whilst on the island.

Elba had a part to play in the 2nd World War. French troops landed there in June 1944 and freed the island from German occupation. The island is served by ferry and you can also get a flight to Marino Di Campo airport.

Sample local wines and of course fresh seafood. Stroll along one of the islands beautiful beaches. Keep an eye out for castles, churches and Mount Capanne, the highest peak on the island.

Top 10 Sunny Christmas Destinations

Do you dream of sun soaked Christmas far away from the every-day routine, lying on pristine white sand, floating away in sparkling warm waters or perhaps exploring an exotic culture? You can live your dream in one of these ten top destinations for your sunny Christmas luxury holiday. From beachfront retreats to rainforest sanctuaries, these heaven-on-earth locations include some of the most exclusive 5 star resorts in the world.

1. Samoa

The natural beauty of this South Pacific Island combines with the warmth of its people to create a world of carefree relaxation. Experience all Samoa has to offer in style at Aggie Grey’s Lagoon Beach Resort and Spa with 50 acres of tropical gardens, stunning beach, turquoise lagoon, golf course and the finest in traditional Samoan hospitality.

2. Hawaii

For those seeking more active pursuits, Hawaii delivers with legendary surf and high-voltage adventuring. Get close to humpback whales and dolphins in the waters around Maui, or see fresh lava flows at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Stay in sumptuous surrounds in the tropical 5 star resort Halekulani and indulge your senses with stunning views, exceptional hospitality and superb cuisine.

3. Bora Bora

A Polynesian jewel nestled within a lagoon and barrier reef, Bora Bora is the ultimate island luxury holiday experience. In the middle of the crystal lagoon lays Motu Toopua, a remnant of an ancient volcano, which is now the location of the Bora Bora Lagoon Resort & Spa. Find your bliss in this exquisite oasis of lush forests, long secluded beaches and never-ending ocean.

4. Peru

Fire your imagination and revive your spirit with all the fascinating wonders of Peru. Travel in comfort on a luxury tour train to the mysterious Lost City of Machu Picchu; find peace in the Sacred Valley; explore the historic city of Cuzco; discover the eco-diversity of the Amazonian rainforests; and, at the close of a full day, return to a 5 star hotel such as Monasterio.

5. Morocco

Although it has an extensive coastline skirting the Mediterranean, Morocco offers much more than ocean views. The extraordinary landscape encompasses soaring mountains, verdant valleys and the starkly beautiful Sahara Desert. From the spectacular Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca to the bustling bazaars of Marrakesh, this remarkable country will enchant and amaze.

6. Maldives

The Maldives is a stunning string of atolls – islands of coral that each encircles a lagoon – scattered across the blue-green canvas of the Indian Ocean. It’s a paradise of serene indulgence for those wanting to laze the day away by the warm water, and its magnificent underwater coral gardens also attracts scuba divers from around the world.

7. Thailand

Journey through the heart of Asia, from Bangkok to Singapore, aboard the exquisitely appointed Eastern & Oriental Express. A luxury tour by rail reveals the magic of the region, from lush rice-fields to historic landmarks, and ensures your complete comfort with opulent cabins, tantalising Eastern and European dining, and personalised service.

8. Bali

Surrender yourself to complete tranquillity in this idyllic haven where soft, white sand meets sparkling azure ocean. Rest and rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit within one of the many Nusa Dua 5 star resorts. One of the most exclusive is the spacious St. Regis Bali Resort which will satisfy your every desire with private villas, seductive spa treatments and extensive health facilities.

9. Orpheus Island, Australia

This Great Barrier Reef resort is located within its own National Park and brings new meaning to the word ‘exclusive’, accepting no more than 42 guests at any one time. Accessible only by seaplane, and free of such intrusions as telephones, televisions, day-trippers or children under 15, secluded bliss is assured in this natural paradise.

10. Eagles Nest, New Zealand

The five world-class villas situated in the Bay of Islands of New Zealand represent the very pinnacle of private opulence. Nestled in the rugged, sub-tropical wilds of the peninsula, the Eagles Nest luxury holiday experience is extraordinary: gourmet cuisine prepared by a resident chef; extensive cellar encompassing the best local wines to the finest French Champagne; state-of-the-art entertainment systems; every amenity including Porsche cars; direct access to enchanting bushland and hidden beaches; and breathtaking headland views of the bay and beyond. Absolutely unforgettable.

Australia Vacation

Australia Vacation ? Walk on the Wild Side!

Travel is great isn?t it? And when you get home you organize all your pictures and souvenirs. And you think, ?wouldn?t it be great if I could find a beautiful Australian Flag to remember my vacation by that doesn?t cost too much to add to my whole vacation experience?? Well, I?ve found a great site that sells great looking flags for not a lot of money and their shipping is super fast ? .

Now, for vacation ideas, I highly recommend Australia! Here are a few tips and facts to help you on your way to this vacation paradise.
Money
You should not carry too much cash on you when you travel here. That said, you are not going to be able to use a credit card or write a check when you are visiting Australia. A sensible way to make sure that you have enough money is to get travelers checks. This is a way that you will be able to get what you need and then some and also have the added security of knowing that you are covered if they are lost or stolen. Australian currency is decimal with the dollar as the basic unit. There are exchange shops where you can cash in and get the local currency that you will need.

Climate
The climate is moderate and there is not as hot as some people might thing. The temperate will depend on what time of the year you are there. Usually you will find nice temperatures and a great weather pattern. You will want to bring lightweight clothing for your trip and a couple of sweaters or sweat shirts just in case.

Customs
Laws prohibit any drugs, firearms, or any other foreign objects. They have these laws to protect the wildlife and citizens of their country. Unlike some foreign countries, there is not limit on the amount of Australian cash that may be brought into or taken out of Australia.
Tipping
Unlike the United States, tipping is not expected and services charges are not automatically added to hotel and restaurants. For any special services, a tip of ten percent is good. Taxi drivers do not expect a tip, but will appreciate anything that is offered to them. Feel free to tip when you feel you?ve had great service.

Information centers
You will find local tourist information and free advice in most places in Australia. Look for the signs that have an “I” on them. This will guide you to get the information that you need. Have a great vacation!