Great Exuma Island is the Perfect Caribbean Honeymoon Destination

For many newlyweds, deciding on where to spend their honeymoon vacation is as important as the wedding itself. A Caribbean honeymoon is a popular choice, but which one of the islands will make your “dream come true”? Each one is different in what it has to offer. Much like contemplating between hiring a DJ or a band, you need to know exactly what it is you are looking for. Great Exuma Island in the Bahamas is able to appeal to many tastes. Whether you are looking for relaxation, culture or adventure, this island has it all. Moreover, Great Exuma is a Caribbean island famous for perfect weather, stunning scenery and above all-romance.

Great Exuma Island has a population of fewer than 4,000 people and offers peace and serenity. In comparison to other Caribbean islands, Great Exuma is not overrun by tourists and cruise ships. On the contrary, the island is relatively secluded and offers you the chance to hide away on a pristine white sand beach, or enjoy a picnic in a private cay.

If culture is what you are looking for, Great Exuma has it in abundance. Visit the remains of cotton growing and salt farming plantations at Williams Town. Or, take a trip to the fascinating ancient salt ponds. History comes alive at Elizabeth Harbor which was once a favorite haunt for pirates. The harbor is home to the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, the first land and sea park in the world to be declared a national park.

Adventure seekers will be enticed by the endless amount of activities available on Great Exuma Island. Sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling and fishing are popular. Experienced guides are available for hire and they are most happy to inject extra adrenaline into your Caribbean honeymoon. For the more daring types, rent a boat or a sea kayak and explore the island on your own. Whatever your taste, Great Exuma can certainly cater to it.

The time spent on your romantic Caribbean honeymoon should be memorable. Every couple should be able to look back on that vacation and wish that they could do it again. The island of Great Exuma in the Bahamas guarantees lasting memories and days and nights of sun, fun and romance!

About the Author

Fred Coolridge is the content manager and author for the website Great Exuma Island, Bahamas – www.exumabahamas.org.

Great Exuma Island is the Perfect Caribbean Honeymoon Destination   by Fred Coolridge

FOUR WAYS TO FREE/LOW COST TRAVEL AROUND GREECE…AND NOT ONLY!

By Liana Metal

1.Free lodging!

Find a pen friend. Maybe you haven’t thought of this. It’s the best solution to your budget problems, but you can’t have it overnight! Greek people are hospitable and so are other countries’ people if you become friends with. It’s the simplest thing to do if you like writing letters or just exchanging cards and souvenirs. I’ve done it and a lot of other people have, why not you? Your friend will probably be happy to put you up for a couple of nights and show you around as well. The other alternative is to exchange your house/flat with somebody else’s abroad. There is a site online that will help you find a place . Try www.welcometraveller.org , they advertise ‘exchange homes free of charge’. Try also www.bigworld.com for offers and discounts.

2.Low cost travel

Stay at campsites. The cheapest alternative to free lodging, at least in Greece. You save money and have fun . Find a campsite at www.greecetravel.com/campsites

3.Invest on a bike.

If you like cycling, then you can do it. In Greece you can cycle to most places and see areas that are worth visiting. You can easily rent a bike , and if you are in Corfu you can try www.mountainbikecorfu.com

4.Rent a room in a village or at the port

There are families who rent rooms in their own house ; cheaper than hotel rooms but you have to follow the rules. Where can you find them? Watch the port area if you come by ship. There are people who approach you and tell you about their own rooms around the area, at low prices. Sometimes you can even bargain to get a better price.

Well, if all these don’t suit you and you may own a caravan , you don’t have to worry about lodgings. You can stay at campsites at low cost, at the side of the road or even in a field for free. You can also hire a caravan and share the expenses, if you travel with friends.

Don’t know where to find one? In Greece you can try

www.greecetravel.com/carrentals

Greece is ideal for traveling at low cost. But you must be inventive and explore all the sources available. Visit www.google.gr This is a search engine that will help you find all the info you want. Just type the word Greece and click on Search.

GOOD LUCK!

415 wds

About the Author

Liana Metal has been writing fiction , non fiction and ebooks, reviewing books and painting. Visit het at htp://lianametal.tripod.com and become a contributor.

Four Ways to Free/Low cost Travel Around Greece…and not only! by Liana Metal

Even in the south, there are little beaches such as Cala Binibeca, with a small restaurant, and Els Canutells, a small resort close to Cala en Porter. And a 10-minute drive from San Clemente, brings you to Calas Coves where impressive cliffs surround two very small beaches.

When you’ve tired of lazing on the beach, there are many interesting caves to discover. Over 100 Bronze Age caves, complete with paintings and carvings, are cut into the cliff overlooking the sheltered bay. At the eastern end of Son Bou can be found the ruins of an early Christian basilica. Finally, the charming capital Mahon, on the east of the island, has lovely Georgian architecture and second largest natural harbour in the world, second only to Pearl Harbour.

Northwards to escape the crowds

While the north of Menorca has some busy resorts, it also has a good share of the island’s uncrowded little beaches, interesting country walks, and a range of water sports including sailing. At Cala Pregonda, a 15-minute drive from Son Parc and Fornells, then a 20-minute walk from the car park, is a remote sandy beach with crystal blue waters. The rocky outcrops offshore provide good snorkelling. Take a picnic, since there are no facilities. The long sandy beach at Cavalleria is also quite isolated, and, again, come with provisions, since there is nowhere to buy food or drinks.

Not far from the lively family beach of Arenal d’en Castell with its rows of sunbeds, bars, restaurants, and organised water sports is Na Macaret, with its small sandy beach. It’s a local favourite and there are some good restaurants at the water’s edge. Just further to the southeast, near the lighthouse at Cap de Favaritx, is the lovely white-sand beach of Cala Presili. The beach is a 15-minute walk from the car park and there are no facilities, so this beach is certainly one of Menorca’s most secluded. Somewhat more developed, but perfect for small children is Es Grau, with its wide bay, sandy beach and shallow water. If you take a boat trip to the nearby Illa d’en Colom, an island in the Mahón Bay, you’ll find a string of beautiful isolated beaches.

When you are ready to book villas in Menorca, Solmar Villas offer a range of high-quality villas, all with their own private pools, which sleep from 1 to 12 people. The villas are located in Cala Galdana, Binibeca, Binibeca Nou, Binibeca Vell, Son Bou, Belin, Cala ‘n Porter, and Satalya, so once you’ve hired a car, you’ll be well within reach of Menorca’s stunning beaches.

Author Bio

Rod Ritchie, a travel writer and editor, writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Solmar Villas offer holiday villas in Menorca. Visit the Solmar Villas website for a selection of quality Menorca villas.

Discover Menorca’s hidden beaches by ROD RITCHIE

You have the basic idea outlined; a vacation somewhere warm and tropical but not boring. The landscape should be beautiful in an interesting way, and the ambiance should be welcoming and a little on the spicy side. You’d prefer not to experience culture shock by having to seek out a rare English-speaker just to make your way around, but you would like to expose yourself to new and delightful customs, sights, and sounds. The place you are thinking of has a name: Puerto Rico.

This eclectic and densely populated island is a mixture of so many things; old and new, traditional and unconventional, natural and man-made, and above all, it is defined by the influences and flavors of a colorful collection of nations. To visit Puerto Rico is to fall into a vibrant and multi-hued celebration of diversity, so be prepared to be impressed by the welcoming spirit of this vast community as well as the physically remarkable features.

Now that you’ve made the choice to take an island retreat to a not-so-average island, you’ll want to find a place to stay that will help you to squeeze every ounce of enjoyment and relaxation from this trip. You might never have stayed in one before, but a vacation rental would be the perfect choice to complement the “get away from it all” attitude that you’ll be adopting as soon as you set foot on Puerto Rico’s rich soil.

Perhaps you’ve heard that San Juan is the place to be when it comes to architectural sight seeing, people-watching, and of course, all the beach activities you’d care to engage in. If this is the case, then check into renting a condo in the Ocean Park area. Here, you’ll be close enough to the water to go swimming, sunbathing, or snorkeling at the drop of a hat. The ocean breezes will lull you to sleep at night, and the thought of a gorgeous tropical sunrise will have you out of bed earlier than you would have thought possible.

This location will have you feeling the pulse of the town, as well, and a short walk will allow you to dine, dance, and shop to your heart’s content. Take pictures of the commanding fortresses that once guarded the city, or tour the ornate cathedrals that have been welcoming spiritual solace-seekers for hundreds of years. The food will leave your taste-buds tingling, and be sure to wash it all down with some locally produced rum, as it will be the finest you’ve ever had.

If you’re ready to immerse yourself in the untamed wilderness, take a drive to El Yunque Rain Forest a few miles away. The lush environment ensures the coexistence of plants and wildlife unlike any you’ve ever seen. You’ll hear the cricket-like chirp of the ubiquitous Coqui frog and catch glimpses of hundreds of species of colorful birds as you make your way through the tropical, seemingly enchanted woods. Taking off in other directions will lead you to different geographic extremes, like caves, deserts, and karst formations, so save some time to visit each side of this multi-faceted island.

No matter where you’ve been during the day and what amazing things you’ve seen, nothing compares to returning to home base certain of the fact that you have chosen the right place to stay. A comfy sofa to recount your adventures on, a kitchen in which to have a snack, and a patio that invites a casual cocktail hour to take place will further heighten the mood of what’s turning out to be one of your most outstanding vacations ever.

After a day of tiring yourself out in the most satisfying of ways, you and your traveling companions will appreciate having plenty of room along with a few unexpected amenities, like an entertainment center or a bookshelf filled with beach-worthy paperbacks. Being in Puerto Rico will bring out your independent, adventure-seeking side, so avoiding the pitfalls of a nondescript hotel experience will seem like the natural route to take.

You’ve made the choice to do something different, so take it all the way. Choose a Puerto Rico Vacation Rental that will enhance your journey to the lively land of friendly faces and incomparable culture.

Do Things Differrently in a Puerto Rico Vacation Rental / Caitlin Moore

HomeAway.com has a wide variety of vacation rental listings, and will surely point the way to the one that is perfect for you.

Danube Island was shaped in the early 1970s as part of a flood protection system. The plans included a discharge canal for the Danube River with an island between the two to serve as a recreational area for the people of Vienna. From the word go in 1975 special emphasis was placed on a balanced mix of social, ecological and economic requirements. To make it possible few steps were taken like a discharge canal, also known as the “New Danube”, was built parallel to the left river bank and the excavated matter was used to make the ground for Danube Island as a free-floating island between the main river and the discharge canal. The Island was completed in 1988. The “New Danube” is only fed during floods and for most of the year has a very calm surface similar to that of an inland lake. The recreational area includes 270 ha of water surface and 390 ha of public green area. In the summer time an average of 300,000 people per weekend come to the island to sunbathe, swim, and enjoy all kinds of sports and recreational activities. Special events like the “Danube Island Festival” in the early summer or concerts later on attract an even larger crowd.

Construction of the Danube Island as a flood protection was started in the early 1970s. Excavation material was dumped between the New Danube and the existing river bed to create 21 kilometers of artificial island – the Danube Island. The island is divided into three parts, natural areas in the north and south and a city-park like area in the centre.

Vienna’s Danube Island is the most popular summer oasis, right in the middle of the city. It has cool action; fantastic sports activities and a great mood are the order of the day. The “island” with its 13 mile long beach is a paradise for bicyclists, inline skaters and fishermen. Many beach bars and restaurants cater to the culinary demands and provide great entertainment until the late evening and night hours.It is known as a recreational Mecca with bars, restaurants and nightclubs, a wealth of sports opportunities from rollerblading, cycling and swimming to canoeing and a beach that looks and feels so good that it has been nicknamed the “Copa Cagrana/Copa Kagrana”. For over 20 years, at the end of June, several million people have gathered at the Donauinsel to attend the biggest open air festival in Europe, the Donauinselfest. The festival, which charges no admission fee, is very popular among the Viennese population and beyond.

The central zone of the Danube Island between the Floridsdorfer Brücke and the Reichsbrücke has developed into a place for events and eating out in the past few years. For example the “Festplast” downstream of the Foridsdorfer Brücke can hold 80,000 visitors. Close to the Reichsbrücke a number of pubs, bars, restaurants and discotheques have come up. The area and has also become an international place of attraction. The annual highlight and fixed point of the event calendar is the “Danube Island Festival”. It has taken place for 16 years now and attracted 2.5 million visitors to the Danube Island last year.

Summer Oasis Danube Island / Anil Gupta

Anil Gupta recommends that you visit http://www.bookings.be/city/at/vienna.html?aid=305255 for more information on Vienna hotels.

Most importantly, it is necessary to keep a good lookout for special holiday offers and discounts which are advertised on the internet all the time. This will ensure that great offers which should be pounced upon are not missed.

One important strategy is to ensure that a trip is booked in stages, and not all at once. Each stage should be well researched and when booked, should be booked at a good price. This way, the discounts on each stage will add up to give a grand total discount, which would have been hard to obtain even in the cheapest of holiday packages.

One way to obtain the best rates on hotel bookings is to look for newly-opened hotels. These hotels generally offer attractive rates to attract customers and obtain publicity. If it is not possible to pay upfront for a few days at a hotel, then only a part of the total number of days should be spent at this hotel, and the remaining number of days can be spent at another hotel for which the price can be paid later.

Also, some useful items, such as phone cards and local train tickets should be bought in advance. This saves a lot of money later on. When it comes to websites such as Expedia or Priceline, the price is often too hefty to pay in one go. At such times, options which offer to find vacations that are available at your named price, such as the one offered by Priceline, should be used.

Timesharing is another great way to cut costs on holidays. Timesharing is the concept which dictates that two or more people can share a dwelling, such that they occupy it when the other person is not occupying it. This way, many people can share the same holiday destination and the cost is paid in proportion to the amount of time occupied by each occupant. This way, if a person resides at his holiday home for only three months in a year, and leaves it unoccupied for the remaining nine months, then he ends up wasting a lot of money because he still has to pay for a year’s expenses. On the other hand, if four people share the same holiday home such that they use it at different times of the year, then each person needs to pay only a fourth of the total cost that would have been necessary had he not used the timesharing method. This method cannot be applied to hotel stays, but is still applicable to holiday apartments
and cottages.

Another way to save costs is to just pick a simple destination, such as a beach that is located nearby. Even a visit to a local wildlife sanctuary or zoo can prove to be very eventful.

Please visit www.shop4holics.com

Planning Low Budget Vacations / Shane Fallas

“Maui No Ka Oi”, translates quite simply to Maui is the Best! And if you’ve ever traveled to the Hawaiian Islands
, you know exactly why this catch phrase is so popular- because Maui, also known as the “Magic Isle”, is filled to the brim with art, culture, and enough history to sink a whaling boat.

The island of Maui is the second most popular tourist destination in this south pacific island chain. Nearly 120,000 people call this 727 sq. mile isle their home, while pineapple and sugarcane are still their key exports. 2.5 million visitors each year travel to the golden-white sand beaches, mile-high mountain peaks and scores of breathtaking, natural waterfalls, all creating an ideal backdrop to the most relaxing vacation of your life.

Over 80 miles of the most stunning beaches in the world grace the coastline of this exquisite island. Scuba diving, snorkeling and “snuba” (a combination of both scuba and snorkeling) are enjoyed by so many who are so inclined to do so. Under water pictures taken by average Joe’s out for a day at the beach can turn into some of the most stunning photography available, certain to make even the most highly trained professional take a second look.

If you’d rather spend your day on top of the water, why not try your hand at windsurfing for hours at a time on any given day. Paia, one of the smaller cities on the island, has often been referred to as the “Windsurfing Capital of the World”, turning this once afternoon hobby into quite the colorful spectator sport. Windsurfers from all over the world gather here, complete with the most breathtaking sails made, delighting and mesmerize passersby out for an afternoon stroll, or those who have set for a spell on one of the many beach-hugging park benches.

Since the majority the great Maui attractions are on the coastline, wouldn’t it make sense to stay at a hotel directly on the beach? Having the ability to step out your back door and onto our own private, soft-sanded beach, all while having the most stunning island in the south pacific, complete with some of the most amazing people, places and things at your fingertips, it just plain makes sense. Hop in your rental convertible and zip up the coast to Old Lahaina town- the first capital of Hawaii, filled with the nostalgia of an old whaling town. Or drive up to Haleakala to watch the sunset from the crater of a dormant volcano. With so much to see and do, if you choose to see and do anything at all, checking into a hotel directly on the beach is definitely the right way to begin your stay on Maui.

Maui Beach Hotel Benefits / John Simmons

John Simmons recommends that you visit http://www.kahanasunset-maui.com/resort.php/KAHANA_SUNSET for more information on Maui Beach Hotel.

A gas balloon is any balloon that stays in the air due to being filled with a gas less dense than air or lighter than air (such as helium or hydrogen). A gas balloon may also be called a Charlière for its creator, the Frenchman Jacques Charles. Nowadays, common gas balloons include fat blimps and small rubber party balloons. Blimps have displaced zeppelins (which are not balloons) as the main form of airship.

The first gas balloon or the helium balloons made its departure in August 1783. It carried no passengers or cargo, and popped when it reached too towering altitude. The same year, (1 December 1783) a manned escape was made soon after the first ascension in a hot air balloon (and certainly the first recorded ascension by man in any flying tool).

Gas balloons remained well-liked all through the age prior to powered flight. They could fly high and further than hot-air balloons, but were more unsafe as they were typically filled with hydrogen gas (which, not like helium, could be easily mass-manufactured). Gas balloons were used in the American Civil combat, the Napoleonic Wars (to very inadequate degree), and all through the 19th century by hobbyists and show performers such as the Blanchards. Inquisitively, past flying to an altitude of over 3000 m on his first flight, Professor Charles by no means flew again.

The height evidence for an unmanned balloon is 53.0 kilometres. It was reached by a Fujikura balloon with a volume of 60 thousand cubic metres, launched in May 2002 from Sanriku, Iwate, Japan. This is the record height ever obtained by an atmospheric medium. Only rockets, rocket planes, and ballistic projectiles have flown higher than that.

Helium Gas Balloon on a go! / Lilly Thomson

For more information about different types of balloons like, helium balloons, wedding balloons, foil balloons, please visit our website: Magic-balloons.co.uk a long established balloon Shop in UK.

Nuptials are such an affair in verve that does not come every day. You would probably not consider about spending currency, while you are rejoicing an affair which is most imperative in your life. They wanted to make the total affair remarkable along with memorable along with at that stage they tend to spend generously for all the nuptials functions. If   food is not offered to the visitors, any traditional affair remains partial. If the number of company is limited then the food could be cooked even at abode but when it comes to serve food to the huge number of visitors at that time one has to look for upright and competent catering services who can handle the complete event without any complaint.

A trendy in addition to famous caterer makes a lot of difference to any catering occurrence with their pioneering food catering menu that suits to the tang of every visitor. An expert as well as specialist catering prepares the food menu exclusively for every occasion like wedding catering, birthday celebration catering, anniversary catering, social or usual catering, corporate or political catering etc. A noted caterer would first ask all the essential information from the client such as budget, number of invitees, place etc. and accordingly he would like to prepare or suggest the menu. The caterer would prepare the correct menu which would definitely suit the instance.

A good caterer always remains cautious, when he is organizing a special menu. You can take help of your individual acquaintances or internet to discover out an accepted menu catering service provider. You should pick the caterer which is nearing to your location in order to avoid any suspend.
Icon Event Catering is honest in the field of event catering because they are fanatical about offering the best catering services. Icon Event Catering is unfailingly bestowing superior services to their customers, and this has made them a highly fortunate status.

The Icon Event Catering is an authority in event catering because it caters appetizing food supplies as well as also arrange the complete occasion for their clients. They are known as an innovative gold licensed caterer in addition to event management company and they ensure the preparation of high class food by the most qualified h as well ass in the business. They treat each affair function as an absolute function and offer their outstanding menu catering in addition to event catering services to make every affair a brilliant one.

Engage world – class marriage caterers / Jessica Thomson

For more insights and further information about menu catering visit our site http://www.iconeventcatering.com.au/

If you have never traveled to the islands of the Caribbean you don’t know what you’re missing, it is truly paradise if such a place exists. The Caribbean Sea runs from South America up to the Gulf of Mexico and meets with the Atlantic Ocean on the East.

It is not surprising that it is the vacation destination of choice for North and South America with natural beauty rarely seen any where else on the planet. Some of the islands feature lush mountains lined with coconut trees and valleys filled with sugar cane and bananas but it is the beaches and the azure waters that bring people back time after time.

When you see how beautiful the Caribbean Islands are you will understand why the British, Spanish, and the French fought over them for centuries after the area was found by Columbus when he got lost trying to find a short cut to India. You will still find the influences of the former colonial dictatorships on St. Croix, Bermuda, Aruba, and other islands with a mixture of both the native cultures and the culture of the colonists who settled there.

There are well over fifty distinctive island vacation spots to choose from with some of them, like the Bahamas, having dozens of islands themselves. One thing is sure; you will never be cold in the Caribbean!

The island of New Providence in the Bahamas is sometimes called Nassau by mistake because that is where the capital of the Bahamas is located. This island, which is a short hop from the east coast of Florida, is home to the majority of Bahamians and is also an offshore financial center with millions of dollars being invested and sheltered there. There is also of course, the famous shopping on Bay Street and the little side streets nearby. Be sure to take in the flavor of the local music as well, which is as famous as the azure waters around the islands.

Another top choice in the Bahamas is Eleuthera, one of the outermost islands and also one of the least developed. If it is your goal to go to a beautiful place that is sparsely populated and a little more primitive, this would be my suggestion. Eleuthera has little night life to speak of, unless you consider the little bar, Elvira’s where Lenny Kravitz is known to hang out sometimes. Lenny owns a house there, his mom is Bahamian.

Almost anyplace you stay will be walking distance to the beach and the different areas of the island are so diverse you would probably have to make several trips to be able to appreciate them all. We stayed for a month and still didn’t get to see everything we wanted. You will definitely want a rental car though because the taxi service is unreliable at best and there is no public transportation. Picking up hitch hikers is an everyday occurrence and a fun way to integrate into the culture.

Top Notch Choices For Traveling In The Caribbean Islands / Gregg Hall

Gregg Hall is an author and internet marketing consultant living in Navarre Florida. For more on car rentals for your vacation go to http://www.economycarrentalagency.com

No one can claim he/she has not stayed in a hotel at least once in life. For those traveling for business, pleasure or for that matter, any other reason, hotels have come to become home away from their homes. Why travelers prefer hotels over motels when all they provide are same? Well, motels by far differ from hotels in their functionality, additional services, and construction. Motels have their room doors opening to exteriors to their driveway while hotel rooms open to interiors. Apart from other regular guest services that hotels provide, you can also plan your business meetings, conferences or even large conventions in some hotels, which is a far cry at motels. What is more, even the locations of hotels are also conveniently located unlike the traditional motels, which invariably cater to highway travelers who just stay by night.

The word hotel has originated from French, which referred to townhouse before being known universally as it is today.

What Is Star Classification of Hotels The star classification of hotels indicates the type and quality of service available at any hotel. The enormous explosion of tourism in the last century has necessitated star classification for the benefit of discerning tourist public.

International and national tourism agencies along with respective governments rate and classify hotels on a scale of one to five stars. However, if you thought there is a standards body which classifies all the hotels of this world, here, you are in for a surprise. The attempts by interested industry captains have failed thus far and the standardization has been elusive till date.

What Do Star Ratings Mean Briefly the ratings mean this: One star: An inexpensive, low budget hotel which may not have maid or room service. Quite affordable by middle class Two star: Marginally expensive and may have once a day maid service Three star: A budget hotel which boasts of maid and room service, internet and health club service in addition to having a swimming pool Four star: Expensive hotels by even middle class travelers; offers many luxury services in addition to afore mentioned services Five star: Stands testimony to final word in luxury and are very expensive anywhere in the world. They offer countless innovative extras. Some of them boast of private airports and golf courses.

If you thought this was all, sample this. There are some unusual hotels too. · Treehouse hotels · Underwater hotels · Cave hotels · Ice hotels etc

Hotels are not far behind in records making. For example: Burj-al-Arab, Dubai, is the tallest hotel at 321 meters and the honors for being largest hotel goes to Ambassador City Jomtien with 5100 rooms at Pattaya Thailand.

Is Hotel The Rich Cousin of Motel? / Namsing Then

NamSing Then is a regular article contributor on many topics. Be sure to visit his other websites Hotel and Motel

Frequent incidents of tourists being confronted in the street while on holiday in the Mediterranean has led to Malta taking action against the timeshare companies who employ sales staff to seek out possible visiting buyers.

Complaints have risen in recent years from holiday makers who have had their time on the island spoiled by being approached on a daily basis to attend presentations – that can last up to four hours -in the hope that some will buy into holiday property ownership and timeshares.

But the Malta tourist authorities have seen the damage it is doing to the island’s economy, and have decided to act.

‘It has come to the stage in Malta’, comments Roger Munns of Malta travel guide YourMalta, ‘that some holiday makers are being approached on a daily basis – sometimes twice a day – by timeshare touts who get paid a commission for every potential buyer they persuade to take to a presentation. As well as the feeling of not being able to go out without being accosted by these people some were giving verbal abuse to those who declined, or simply followed them down the street after being told no – and hounding tourists’.

With the tourism market vital to the Malta economy, the Malta Tourist Authority recognised that some visitors would be so put off the island by high pressure sales people that they wouldn’t return – potentially losing Malta millions in lost revenue from repeat visitors.

‘In today’s world,’ explain YourMalta, ‘Malta has to compete with new destinations in Europe as well as Spain and her islands. Cheap Malta flights aren’t in themselves enough to sustain tourism at reasonable levels anymore, although this will be welcome, but the trick of sustained tourism is to have repeat business, and timeshare touts bothering visitors to the island are enough in some cases to make sure that repeat visits don’t happen.’

The legislation the tourist authorities needed to be able to protect the tourists has recently been passed, and the Malta Tourist Authority is planning to outsource security patrols to police the timeshare touts. And in a clever move designed to enforce the legislation effectively, the Malta Tourist Authority are being paid around 3000 Euros for each rep the timeshare companies employ for a bond that will allow them to work in a regulated way. Instead of waiting to take each incident through the courts the MTA will be fining the companies found breaking the rules and taking the money out of the deposited bond money, with the timeshare companies having to make it up immediately to the required amount.

Hotels In Malta

YourMalta say they welcome the stance the Malta Tourist Authority are taking to protect the visitors to the island, and cite recent examples of why action has become necessary.

In two recent cases, British tourists have been targetted, by young male and female timeshare reps, and while some were based outside hotels in Malta others were driving around in cars and stopping tourists as though they were going to ask for directions pointing to a map of Malta before delivering their sales pitch, with some more persistent than others.

The timeshare reps are predominantly from the UK and targetting UK tourists who visit the island for the good weather in Malta, and the UK is a main market for Malta. On occasions the British tourists have had to resort to threaten violence to be left in peace, with the timeshare reps retorting that they were only trying to make a living.

‘In truth’, comment YourMalta, ‘While the timeshare reps are trying to make commission, for every penny they earn they could be losing the Malta economy far more with every approach they make as the tourists soon get fed up with the persistent efforts to sell them something they don’t want. Those tourists are sometimes having their whole holiday spoiled and are less likely to return.

The last thing the island needs is for tourists to step off their Air Malta flight to be accosted before they even reach their hotel with a sales pitch that reminds them of double glazing salesmen back home. The Malta Tourist Authority tell us they will come down on any culprits like a ton of bricks.

We welcome the pro-active stance taken by the Malta Tourist Authority to protect the British visitor and to ensure that they can enjoy their holiday, which will hopefully be the first of many to Malta. The Malta Tourist Authority is to be commended for not only recognising the problem, but taking action to ensure the Maltese economy doesn’t lose millions in lost revenue from unhappy Brits who might otherwise take their spending money elsewhere in the future’.

Time alone will tell if Malta can protect her visitors.

Med Island Defends Tourists / Roger Munns

Your Malta produce a travel guide for Malta and Malta property . It includes a map of Malta and the weather in Malta

It used to be most major destinations had only a few choices when it came to lodging, but now all bets are off. With the choices in hotels ranging from low-budget economy inns to upscale suites and beyond, booking a good hotel now requires a little savvy. Thanks to the Internet, the hunt for good hotels in almost every location imaginable is easy. Finding the right hotel for a business trip or even a vacation needs to start first with a few questions. Shoppers should consider the following:

* Budget. What are you able to spend on lodging? Is the budget tight or can an upscale stay be included in your trip?

* Length of stay. Sometimes this can make a real difference in what’s affordable. A three-week stay in a 5-star hotel might be out of the question, but at a lower-priced, nice location could be feasible. There may even be some discounts available for long-term bookings.

* Location. If you’re heading for a conference and need to be near the convention center, knowing the location you need will be important. Check city maps online and even pay heed to information on the conference’s web site. There’s nothing worse than finding out your hotel that was supposed to be in “walking distance” of the conference is actually 50 blocks away.

* Personal preference. If you like to be pampered on trips each step of the way, your choice might lean you more in the direction of a more upscale hotel. Otherwise, reasonable accommodations should be more than suitable and even offer a few perks all on their own. As you look for lodging in different cities, you will find there are a number of different accommodations available in most major destinations. Keep in mind, though, if you only intend to use the room for sleeping, you might be better off saving a little pocket change for the trip by going with a more affordable hotel. The lodging options available in most major destinations include:

* Discount travel inns. Offering little more than a bed and bath, these are Spartan, but ideal for those who want to save money on their trips. Sometimes comfort features are offered, such as room service, but not always. If this is important, check with the hotel online or make the call and find out.

* Business-centered hotels. These cater to the business traveler. They tend to include a lot of creature comforts and practical items, such as internet access and so on.

* Upscale hotels. These tend to be pricey, but when it comes to offering the royal treatment, they don’t skimp.

* Resort hotels. Generally attached to a major attraction, such as a theme park, or even a famous beach, these are ideal for vacation travelers and even business guests that want to see it all and get pampered while doing it.

* Bed and breakfasts. Many areas offer these rustic and romantic little inns. These are perfect for couples and even families, offering a change of pace from the ordinary.

* Condo/home rentals. For long-term vacation stays, these can save people some serious money. Finding the right hotel isn’t always easy, but with a little patience and the help of great Internet web sites, the task is made much simpler. By looking online, hotel shoppers can learn more about where they’re going and where they intend to stay, too.

Simplify Hotel Hunting With the Right Approach / Ray La Foy

More resources:
Hotel locating resource

http://www.hotelslocators.com
Bed and breadfast accomodations

http://www.bedandbreakfastbreak.com

Cruising is a wonderful and relaxed way to see several countries while enjoying the sun. Today, cruise trips are extremely popular due to their low cost and luxury travel experience.

However, like all travelling, there are a few things you need to be aware of before you start to plan your cruise ship vacation.

Here are some cruise tips to help guide you on your journey.

   1. All inclusive cruises are not available
      Most all cruise lines do not offer an all inclusive cruise package. Alcohols, soft drinks and even water all needs to be paid for when on cruise ships. The only things included are the cruise itself, your cabin and generally at least 1-2 meals a day.

   2. Shop around and consult different cruise travel agents
      Cruise travel agents are like travel agents, but are experts in cruising. Be prepared to tell the cruise agent exactly what you are looking for. You could visit 5 different agencies and receive 5 different quotes for the same cruise. In addition, look for deals in off weeks. A fare may be $2000 one week and $800 the following week.

   3. Be aware of added charges
      If you are planning to cruise alone and don’t want to share your cabin, you can anticipate a single’s supplement charge of 10% to 100% of a per person’s rate (depending on cruise line). In addition, a lot of cruises require you to pay extra for any cruise shore excursions, or any special activities that are offered on board. Be prepared to spend an additional 30% of the cost to take part in any of these activities.

   4. Knowing when the best time to cruise is
      Cruising is usually a little cheaper during the spring or fall. Weather can be uncertain, especially in the fall given many Caribbean destinations could have hurricane seasons during this time. This is something to watch out for. The dry season for Caribbean cruises is during the summer where as the rainy season is during the winter. Other cruise lines have short cruising seasons, such as Alaska cruises which normally run from May to September.

   5. Have fun!
      One of the most important tips that I can give to you on your cruise ship vacation is to have a great time. Relax! After all it’s your vacation and you deserve to make the most out of it. There are many things for you to do, fancy dinners and dressing up, meeting new friends, visiting exotic locations, being on deck in the sun, doing cruise shore excursions, and much more! It’s important to have fun, so when you come back you feel better about yourself and that you got the most out of your time and money.

Remember, cruising is an absolutely exceptional way to spend your vacation. They are very relaxing and a very enjoyable way to spend some time away. However, like all vacations, you need to know what is required before purchasing your dream cruise ship vacation. Keep this in mind and I have no doubt your cruise trip will be a complete success!

Cruising – Five Quick Tips Before Taking a Cruise Ship Vacation / Sarah W

Tropical Beach Destinations ( www.tropicalbeachdestinations.com )
specializes in giving you an exhilarating tropical vacation for travel destinations around the world. We are experienced travelers who have lived across the globe and our dream is to provide you with everything you need in order to have the ultimate dream vacation. Learn how to travel with Sarah and Jason, your tropical adventure couple!

Oahu, Hawaii’s 3rd largest island, could easily be considered the heart of Hawaii. With looping mountain trails, to monster waves breaking on the gorgeous golden beaches, to beaches where the turtles are swimming right along with you, down to country stores and discovering the uniqueness of Hawaiian culture, where do you begin?

With limited time and a wealth of things to see and do, here’s a list of things to do in Oahu, that I hope will help you determine what you’d like to put in your schedule!

    * Snorkelling in the exquisite Hanauma Bay

      The Hanauma Bay Nature Park is actually a State Underwater Park and is a paradise for even the novice of snorkellers! The Bay is the result of the ocean’s breaching and incursion into two volcano craters. In addition to the beautiful swimming and snorkelling opportunities, there are also hiking trails with gorgeous vistas and plenty of picnicking sites.

    * Take an Eco Adventure Tour and swim with the Dolphins!

      Discover whales, dolphins and sea turtles with nature-tour operators who are filled with knowledge and carry a deep respect for marine animals in their natural habitat. Cruise out to sea in a relaxed sailing atmosphere and view the mountainous shorelines and pristine beaches. This journey is sure to make an adventure of a lifetime!

    * No trip is complete without a Hawaii Luau!

      The Luau, based on traditional Hawaiian feasts, has become a rite of passage for all tourists! You can expect a flashy show, a huge buffet and a true authentic Hawaiian experience!

    * Feeling adventurous? Try your hand at surfing!

      Originating as the sport of ancient Hawaiian royalty, you can find lessons right on Waikiki Beach. The surf is great for beginners and kids as young as eight can try! If that’s too much adventure for you and you’re there in the winter time, why not head on up to the north shore and watch the pros compete on the giant surf!

    * Climb Diamond Head Volcano

      The most famous volcanic crater in the world, Diamond Head is located on the southeast coast of Waikiki. It is an easy to moderate hike that is well worth the effort when you see the spectacular view of the entire west side of the island from Waikiki to Koki Head.

    * Visit the Hawaii Polynesian Cultural Center

      An opportunity to visit seven Polynesian Islands in one afternoon! It gives you a chance to learn and interact with the people of Hawaii, Samoa, Maori New Zealand, Fiji, Tahiti, the Marquesas and Tonga. You’ll also see the world-famous and largest night show, Horizons: Where the Sea Meets the Sky.

    * And of course we have Waikiki Beach!

      The place where you can surf, swim and sail by day and dine, dance and party by night! Waikiki is truly legendary and one of the best things that you can do in Oahu. Beyond the gorgeous sand and surf, you can stroll along the flagstone walkway where you see fountains, rock pools, statues and surfboard signs that teach you a bit about its history! Waikiki is the world’s most famous and most filmed beach. It actually consists of nine individually named beaches which stretch along two miles of shoreline. Do beware, it is also one of the most crowded!

While this is only a very small portion of things to do in Oahu, I hope that this has helped you to discover a little bit about what this truly magnificent island has to offer!

Things to Do in Oahu Hawaii / Sarah W

Tropical Beach Destinations (www.tropicalbeachdestinations.com )
specializes in giving you an exhilarating tropical vacation for travel destinations around the world. We are experienced travelers who have lived across the globe and our dream is to provide you with everything you need in order to have the ultimate dream vacation. Learn how to travel with Sarah and Jason, your tropical adventure couple!

Beach Motors are a used car sales company based in East Sussex.  Located on the A269 on the high street of Sidley, Bexhill-on-Sea, adjacent to a major retail supermarket outlet.

Beach Motors have a great selection of used cars both on the website and in our show room. We always stock the best used cars at great prices, no matter what your preferences we are sure to find the perfect car for you. All our vehicles are sourced from our extensive network of main dealer contacts throughout the United Kingdom.

Want 0% finance? Have past credit problems? We have a finance package to suit your needs! Call 01424 730 750 to find out how we can arrange the best finance package possible. No matter what your circumstances we will always do our best to find you the perfect finance package.

Comprehensive parts and labour warranty, professional valeting used cars that drive like a dream.
Offering half price MOTs with every £99 major service, including our 50 point check, you can feel assured you’re in safe hands with all our mechanics.

We stock various well known brands such as Vauxhall, Peugeot, Mercedes and Rover the list goes on and on. All our cars are quality checked before leaving the forecourt.

If you would like to search our extensive range of used cars then may I suggest following this used car link.

Beach Motors are a used car sales company based in East Sussex.  Located on the A269 on the high street of Sidley, Bexhill-on-Sea, adjacent to a major retail supermarket outlet.

Beach Motors have a great selection of used cars both on the website and in our show room. We always stock the best used cars at great prices, no matter what your preferences we are sure to find the perfect car for you. All our vehicles are sourced from our extensive network of main dealer contacts throughout the United Kingdom.

Want 0% finance? Have past credit problems? We have a finance package to suit your needs! Call 01424 730 750 to find out how we can arrange the best finance package possible. No matter what your circumstances we will always do our best to find you the perfect finance package.

Comprehensive parts and labour warranty, professional valeting used cars that drive like a dream.
Offering half price MOTs with every £99 major service, including our 50 point check, you can feel assured you’re in safe hands with all our mechanics.

We stock various well known brands such as Vauxhall, Peugeot, Mercedes and Rover the list goes on and on. All our cars are quality checked before leaving the forecourt.

If you would like to search our extensive range of used cars then may I suggest following this used car link.

Beach Motors car sales from East Sussex / alex johnson

Website: www.beachmotors.co.uk Telephone us on 01424 730 750, or drop by at 76 Ninefield Road, Sidley, Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex

After the revolution of 1959, Cuba received a nickname “the island of freedom” and became a symbol of liberation movement for Latin America. Times has changes and but Cuba is still ruled by the leader of that revolution – Fidel Castro and now is one of the few communist countries in the world. Difficulties in the relations with the United States caused a lot of problems to Cuban economic, but despite it now Cuba is becoming more and more popular as a resort destination.

Cuba occupies long, narrow island which shape is compared with cayman. Its length is 1250 km and width varies from 32 to 210 km. Cuba is very diverse in nature, but there no dangerous for a human being creatures. There are several unique species on Cuba. Sunsunsito or bird-fly is the smallest bird on the Earth. Cuba also boasts the biggest Caribbean flamingo colony in the western hemisphere.

National park Sienaga de Zapata is the largest guarded territory on the island with its area of 600 000 hectares. Here inhabit more than 3000 Cuban crocodiles and Cuban iguanas – one of the smallest in size kinds of frogs.

Cuba is a unique fusion of religious traditions. Catholicism is very widespread here, there area lot of churches, but Cubans rarely attend them. African cults in conjunction with Catholicism gave a special Cuban cult – Santeria, which is close to voodoo.

Holydays on Cuba will be marked with exotic, dancing, carnivals, impressive nature and excellent beaches. Cuba attracts more than half a million tourist a year.

Cuba has about 290 natural beaches, which are absolutely safe for people.

Main resorts on Cuba – Varadero, Cayo Coco, Cayo Largo, Holguin and Cayo Guillermo.

Varadero is a proud of Cuban tourism, its fine sand beaches is enough reason for visit this place. Varadero has its own international airport. The resort is especially popular among Canadian tourists. Cuba has a perfect climate, it’s 25-28 C all year round, but a period from November to March is considered to be the best time for a visit.

Nature, beaches – all this is perfect, but the real heart of the country is its capital – Havana. Now it’s a big city with the population of about 3 millions. The city was founded in 1519. It’s centre – Old Havana has remained almost unchanged since the last several centuries. It was the favorite place on the Earth of Ernest Hemingway – famous American writer.

Cuba has always attracted foreigners with its unique color of life. Its cigars and rum have become the symbols of the country. Cuba is also known for its warm welcome and all the tourists agree that it’s the most hospitable country in the whole America.

Cuba is rather safe country, but it’s not recommended to walk alone in Old Havana at night.

The island of freedom / Ann

If you like to book hotel, please visit Havana hotels page

Luxury island holidays in the Pacific are where life leaves the mundane behind and takes you on a trip to the realms of the exotic and the sensuous. Luxury hotels and resorts take care of your every physical comfort while nature envelopes your senses and emotions in a cloud of euphoric cleansing, leaving you rejuvenated to the core.

Luxury island holidays in the Pacific centre on a group of over 3000 islands, each a piece of paradise with beach attached. They make up 13 countries that jointly are known as the Pacific Islands. Fiji, the most well known of all is itself a group of about 330 islands. So if you are looking to enjoy an island vacation, the luxury islands of the Pacific would have to be the natural choice.

There’s something about an island that makes it easy to shed stress and enter a bubble of peace that incorporates heady fragrances, lush blooms, and the intoxicating smell of the ocean. The islands of Fijibring this magic to life with their unspoilt natural beauty and vast expanses of silvery beaches glimmering under the tropical sun. What proves to be even more of a balm to the senses is the extreme acceptance and affection of the local people, who simply exude a natural bonhomie. A variety of ethnicities call Fiji home and merrily add to the cultural melting pot that is evident in the cuisine, the dress, and mannerisms. However, one and all will greet you with a ‘Bula!’, welcoming you to participate in the fiesta that’s Fiji.

New Caledonia succeeds in blending a whiff of French in to its tropical ambience, to create a heady mix that spells vacation with a capital V. Prepare to enjoy French cuisine and excellent wine while revelling in the warmth of the tropical sunshine. Luxury hotels dot its beaches at strategic locations and its striking mountain ranges  give you a change of scene. The special attraction here is the world’s largest lagoon with over a thousand varieties of marine life and a 1600 km long barrier reef. If you’re crazy about water sports, you’ve come to the right place.

Somewhere between New Zealand and New Caledonia is a hidden gem of tranquillity, also known as Norfolk Island, undeniably the crème de la crème of the luxury island holidays in the Pacific. Majestic pines tower atop picturesque cliffs, overlooking  turquoise lagoons and emerald golfing greens, to give you yet another take on tropical beauty with a subtle difference. A popular getaway and honeymoon destination, this luxury island has its share of extravagances to suit all wallet sizes.

Tahiti is simply a rhapsody in blue that will sway your senses and blow you away. Tiny islands float ephemerally like pockets of paradise let loose for the pleasure of the chosen few. Bora Bora, Taha, and Moorea have luxury hotels and quaint resort style lodgings that blend in with the natural landscape. The lush tropical landscape dotted with lakes and lagoons designed by Cupid himself make this luxury island the ultimate romantic getaway.

A group of 83 islands sprinkled like exotic toppings on the surface of the blue waters of the Pacific are together known as Vanuatu. Be prepared for a change of scenery as you encounter the secrets of this volcanic island. Nothing sinister though; just natural beauty at its untouched, rugged best. Beaches change tones from a shower of Swarovski crystals to silky black. Coral reefs beckon tantalisingly beneath crystal clear water, while on land there are the amazing waterfalls, enigmatic rain forests, and placid lagoons that gleam silently in the sun. Port Vila, the capital, presents lively restaurants, shops, and luxury hotel accommodation.

The Cook Islands are made up of about 15 islands and are a popular destination among the luxury islands of the Pacific. Luxury hotels of all persuasion have been set up by experienced purveyors of good times and comfort to ensure you enjoy your stay on the island. Natural beauty has been left untouched to give you a sense of what the earth must have been like before the discovery of concrete.

The Solomon Islands with their majestic mountains and rivers welcome you to partake of a luxury island holiday like none other. The palm fringed beaches lolling by the aquamarine waters of the ocean are the perfect antidote to stress in the city and all its side effects. Feel the tension fall away from your shoulders as you contemplate the infinity of the horizon. A number of luxury hotels and resorts on the beach make this island the right stopover for some quintessential me-time..

In Samoathe way of life is as eternal as the blue waters surrounding it. Replete with all the features a beach resort can offer, it will probably be the Samoan people that capture your heart. Their friendliness and genuine love soon make you feel like you’re in your own private island. They still haven’t got around to commercialising this piece of paradise they call home and it retains all its unspoilt natural beauty. For the time beingFeature Articles, they are just happy to share their good luck with whoever visits.

Luxury Islands in the Pacific – Vacation in a Piece of Paradise / Justine Richards

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Justine is a contributor to http://www.justtheplanet.com, the online luxury travel magazine for independent travellers. Read more about luxury spas around the world http://www.justtheplanet.com/luxury-spas/luxury-spas.php and great getaways http://www.justtheplanet.com/hidden-gems/hidden-gems.php.