Archive for August, 2009
Saturday, August 29th, 2009
The legacy of the spa dates back to Roman soldiers marching far afield, looking for a place to clean up and relax from their arduous and grimy endeavors. They discovered natural hot springs in many areas, and learned to make good use of them. Since those times the culture of the spa has evolved to truly dazzling heights.
Today, a spa is the place you go for relaxation and rejuvenation of body, mind and spirit. Not all of them boast a natural hot spring, but the focus is often on some form of hydrotherapy that includes at the very least a hot whirlpool bath - most of us know them as Jacuzzis. The idea behind the whole spa concept is to get away from the noise and rush of day-to-day living.
There is a wide range of choices when it comes to choosing a spa for your personal needs and preferences. From a single hot tub to a sprawling luxury resort, they are all called "spas", but the differences can be pretty dramatic. One of the options which is becoming ever more attractive is the burgeoning number of spa hotels, now in virtually every corner of the world.
A spa hotel is not just a hotel-with-a-spa (which can mean nothing more than a hot tub in your room.) One great advantage of spa hotels is that the entire establishment is geared toward the comfort, relaxation and healing techniques associated with the original concept. The services are designed to let you detach from the rest of the world and be pampered and soothed in body and spirit.
The treatments and amenities in spa hotels worldwide vary endlessly, but most of the good ones offer massage in one or several of its forms as well as body wraps, facials, skin treatments and of course hot tubs and saunas. Many are devoted to physical wellness, offering 'spa cuisine' in addition to traditional fare. Also in many cases the staff includes licensed professional physical therapists who are trained to locate and relieve the source of bodily ailments often caused by stress alone.
Hotels, by definition, are places for travelers to rest and refresh themselves. For business travelers especially, the spa hotel is an oasis of calm and comfort. They offer a chance to relax and re-invigorate both mind and body, step back and get a new perspective on the current situation, and return to the fray with new energy and clarity. The Romans had it right, don't you know?
As noted before, spa hotels can be found almost anywhere a traveler, whether on business or pleasure, may choose to venture. The Internet has a wealth of information about location, amenities and prices, and it is wise to do a little research. Because of the very nature of today's bustle and stress in all walks of life, the spa industry is constantly refining and improving its image. You won't have to look far to find your personal Shangri La for a night, a weekend or a week, and the benefits to your overall health can be astounding.
Tim Hardaway regularly publish articles covering the travel industry on behalf of Lac Morency, who offers Forfait Laurentides.Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/a-romantic-dip-in-spa-hotels-1175475.html
Posted in Travel News | No Comments »
Saturday, August 29th, 2009
Tiger sharks are often the focus of shark conservation work, with populations of the species being found around the world in tropical and temperate climates. For budding marine biologists, exciting tiger shark marine conservation volunteering opportunities are available, where participants get to interact with these creatures face to face.
Tiger sharks are one of the most fascinating species of shark, with a distinctive appearance and characteristics, and alarming threat to humans. These magnificent water creatures live primarily in tropical, temperate climates, and are considered sacred in Hawaii. To protect the species, shark conservation projects focusing specifically on tiger sharks are in operation, and these beasts of the ocean are often the focus of marine conservation volunteers.
Tiger sharks are a particularly large shark species, growing to a terrifying length of about 4 metres and weighing up to 635kg. With such size, it's no wonder they pose a threat to humans, particularly since they love shallow, murky tropical waters. For the brave, however, those interested in marine biology conservation ca experience these creatures up close, free from cages or glass divides.
Hunting for Prey
Aside from their appreciation of a tasty human, tiger sharks will eat just about anything, and shark conservation workers don't need to focus on a lack of food for these mammals. Being predators, their staple diet consists of smaller sharks, turtles, seals and other fish, and since they're excellent hunters, they have the choice of the ocean. They are also excellent hunters, and their ability to find and capture prey is impeccable. Their heightened sensory perceptions mean that they can catch their prey with relative ease. With their excellent eyesight, they can spot their prey a mile away, even in murky water. And their acute sense of smell means that they can smell even a small amount of blood from quite some distance away, and are able to trace it back to the unsuspecting victim. They also have the remarkable ability to pick up on low-frequency pressure waves, so they know when something is alive and moving in nearby waters.
But they are also known for their inability to differentiate between what is nutritional, and what is rubbish, and a number of human rubbish items have been found in their stomachs. From car license plates to bicycle wheels, these animals will eat just about anything. So while a lack of food may not concern tiger shark conservationists, pollution of the sea with rubbish is more worrying.
Attacks on Humans
Since tiger sharks have superb hunting abilities, they pose a certain amount of risk to humans. In fact, they are responsible for a large percentage of fatal attacks on humans, second only to the great white shark. While marine biology conservationists and Hawaiians who believe the tiger shark to be sacred may strive to keep the animal safe, swimmers and holidaymakers may have a different opinion! But it is important to keep in mind that tourist activities such as shark cage diving may also be responsible for attracting sharks into more shallow, populated waters, which poses yet another problem for shark conservationists to address.
Mark Bottell is the General Manager for Worldwide Experience, an online tour operator offering extended breaks upon which you can participate in a programme of marine biology conservation, an exciting, hands-on marine conservation volunteering opportunity.Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/tiger-sharks-predators-of-the-sea-1174050.html
Posted in Travel News | No Comments »
Friday, August 28th, 2009
The Great Lakes are used as the major mode of transport for bulk goods. Recreational boating and tourism are major industries along the Great Lakes region.
The Great Lakes of North America are a group of 5 large lakes which include Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. It is collectively the largest freshwater system on earth. The region includes portions of Northwestern Pennsylvania and Western New York as well as the Canadian Province of Ontario and the 6 U.S. states such as Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio.
The region forms distinctive economic and historical and political bi-national history, culture as well as a political economy. The Great Lake region is distinguished for its significant contribution in culture, economy and technology.
The tourists are drawn to these natural attractions for very good reasons, and here's why:
Great Lakes of North America
Lake Michigan
It is the third largest Great Lake of North America and the only one situated entirely within the United States. The lake is bounded from west to east by Michigan, Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin. Visitors can cross it by riding a ferry that runs from Manitowoc, Wisconsin to Ludington, Michigan. It is home to bowfin, carp, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, pinfish, yellow perch, lake trout and some species of catfish.
Lake Huron
This is the second largest of the Great Lakes bounded on the east by the province of Ontario, Canada and on the west by the U.S. state of Michigan. Its surface is 176 meters above sea level and the average depth is 59 meters. There are several significant cities on Lake Huron such as Sarnia and Goderich, Ontario Canada as well as Bay City, Cheboygan, Rogers City, Alpena, Port Huron and St. Ignace, Michigan.
The lake is home to several fish and plant life like the now extinct deepwater Cisco. The notable feature here is the Manitoulin Island that separates the Georgian Bay and the North Channel from the lake's main body of water.
Lake Erie
This is the 4th largest Great Lake and the 10th largest worldwide. It is bounded on the south by U.S. states of New York, Pennsylvania and Ohio, on the north by the Canadian province of Ontario and on the west by the state of Michigan. It is primarily fed by Detroit River and it is drained via the Niagara Falls and Niagara River into Lake Ontario. Some major contributors to this lake include the Cuyahoga River, Sandusky River, Maumee River, Huron River and the Grand River. The lake is home to one of the world's largest freshwater commercial fisheries.
Rivers in Great Lakes
St. Clair River
This river is situated in central North America that drains the Lake Huron into the Lake St. Clair. It is 64 kilometers long and 1.5 meters in elevation from the Lake Huron to Lake St. Clair. It is one of the important areas of the Great Lakes Waterway where cargo vessels pass through to travel between the upper and lower Great Lakes.
Niagara River
It flows north from the Lake Erie to the Lake Ontario. The river serves as part of the border between New York and the province of Ontario in Canada. It features two large islands namely the Goat Island and Grand.
Saint Lawrence River
It is a larger river that extends greatly from southwest to northeast of North America. It connects together the Great Lakes and the Atlantic Ocean. The Saguenay, Ottawa and Richelieu rivers as well as Lake Champlain are being drained here.
For more information on Great Lakes North America and
The Great Salt Lake.Please visit our website.Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/more-about-the-great-lakes-of-north-america-1171621.html
Posted in Travel News | No Comments »
Thursday, August 27th, 2009
Referred as the pearl of the Indian Ocean in the past, Sri Lanka is a beautiful tropical paradise located close to India. Its location is considered to be strategically important in connecting the west and the east and has played a main role from time immemorial. Apart from the strategic importance received due to the location, Sri Lanka has an array of attractions ranging from natural to archeological and historical which has prompted many to visit this island
. Having a history of more than two thousand years Sri Lanka has many archeologically important sites, many of which are closely related to Buddhism which is the main religion followed by the Sinhalese majority. Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, two of the oldest kingdoms in Sri Lanka boast of century old temples and palaces. Though most of the palaces are in ruins the different forms of structures built for veneration are still intact and are worshipped to this date. The Ruwan Weli Maha Saya a colossal structure presumed to be built during the time of King Dutugemunu still stand majestically for the benefit of the many Buddhists in the country.
Sigiriya considered as the eight world wonder is the fortress used by King Kassapa during his reign. Built on a massive rock, the fortress is said to have had unimaginable luxuries. Present day archeologists have still not figured the miraculous technology used by the ancestors to provide water to this huge castle which is indeed a miracle considering the time in which it was built. Apart from the ancient sites, Sri Lanka also has many natural attractions. The enchanting sunny beaches and the dazzling blue sea provide ample opportunity for relaxation and recreation. Negombo, Mount Lavinia, Hikkaduwa are some of the more popular beaches found in Sri Lanka. Hikkaduwa also has colorful and vivid coral reefs which can be explored by snorkeling or renting glass bottom boats.
The many nature parks and reserves showcase the vivid wildlife in the country. Yala, Wilpaththu, Udawalawe are just a few of the main parks that can be visited to see Sri Lankan wildlife. Singharaja, the only rain forest found in Sri Lanka is home to a number of endemic species of wildlife and is also considered as a World Heritage Site. The beautiful waterfalls that adorn the hill country are another attractive feature found here.
With so many varying attractions Sri Lanka is a wonderful place to visit during a holiday. Information on Sri Lanka travel can be found easily online from websites such as TrulySriLanka which provide clear and descriptive details on how, where and what to do in Sri Lanka.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/attractions-in-sri-lanka-the-beautiful-paradise-island-1167084.html
Posted in Travel News | No Comments »
Wednesday, August 26th, 2009
The summer holidays for the kids in Scotland are over and it will soon be for English students. Perfect if would like to be soaking up some sun in a much warmer climate. The UK was once again pretty much a washout, why do we ever listen to the weatherman’s claims of a “high chance of temperatures reaching mid to high 20’s”. Never mind there are many places to choose from to jet off to and enjoy some summer sun.
I visited Alicante a couple of years back and had a fantastic time there. The beaches are fantastic and will also be slightly quieter now than at there peak last month, those people that can’t wait to go on holiday!
Other fantastic attractions of Alicante include the castle of Santa Barbara. It’s a huge medieval fortress, one of the biggest in the whole of Spain and is situated right in the centre of Alicante. Not only can you learn about the history of Alicante but you can experience amazing views of the city as it sits on top of Mount Benacantil. Interestingly you can look at the El Postiguet beach from the castle to see a rather unusual shape. It is a human face which is known as the Moor’s Head.
There are other attractions for sightseers such as St Mary’s Church. The church was built between the 14th and 16th centuries in a gothic style. Inside you will find a richly decorated Baroque interior and a wide range of art to peruse including two of the most valuable pieces which date back to the 15th century. The church was built on the ruins of a mosque during the Moorish occupation.
For those that are more interested in relaxing on the beach and having a nice meal in the evening then Alicante has beautiful beaches for you to relax, read a book and top up your tan. San Juan Beach is around 5 miles from the centre of town however is worth the trip. The European Union awarded this long beach the Blue Flag which means the beach has to pass strict water quality tests as well as engage in environmental education and ensure safety for visitors.
Jet off for some sun in Spain, check out <a target="_blank" href="http://www.dealchecker.co.uk/cheap-flights/alicante.html"> Alicante flights </a> now and give yourself a break.
Kim has 4 years experience in the travel industry. She Enjoys writing articles on various destinations and Travel related topics.
Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/summer-sun-in-alicante-1164051.html
Posted in Travel News | No Comments »
Wednesday, August 26th, 2009
Getting a job in one of the most renowned cruise lines in the world is easier than you think. More than anything, the first thing that you need to do is to start looking for a particular job that will match your qualifications and personal expectations.
Disney cruise line jobs are famous for their excellent customer service orientation that each worker manifests. Created particularly to sprinkle magical experience to their guests, there are several factors that each employee should review. Smile, maintain eye contact, greet each guest, know each guest contact, execute proper body language, offer quick service, ensure the “magical” experience, and never fail to say thank you to each guest are just some of the duties that each job calls for.
Furthermore, each applicant for Disney cruise job should accept the fact that they have the need to show off that famous Disney look. For men, their hair must be neat and kept short all the time. Jewelry is limited to a single ring per hand. On the other hand, women that have hair below their shoulder must always be secured properly through the use of plain barrette and make up must be minimal and well blended.
Nevertheless, working in one of the many Disney cruise line jobs is an exciting and rewarding experience for many, although this is not certainly for everyone since the ship has the need to maintain their kid-friendly atmosphere all the time. The ship is totally drug-free and only crew members that are 21 years and up are given the chance to consume alcohol as long as they are responsible drinkers. So if you cant live up to these rules, then this job is not for you.
For more great information on a Disney Cruise Line Jobs visit our new website www.allmytraveltips.com. And for more great articles visit www.read-this-online.com today.
Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/disney-cruise-line-jobs-some-need-to-know-things-1161701.html
Posted in Travel News | No Comments »
Wednesday, August 26th, 2009
Every parent knows that Disneyland is every child’s dream. However, Disneyland is by no means cheap, and it will entail you plenty of expenses. If you are planning a trip to Disneyland soon, don’t fret just yet. You can actually experience the magic of Disneyland at a cheaper rate, by availing of cheap Disney vacation packages. These packages are often available through the web and they’re easy to access and purchase. What’s more, these cheap Disney vacation packages are all inclusive so you don’t have to worry about the little details.
There are plenty of websites that offer cheap Disney vacation packages. You can select the number of the days you will be staying, the number of parks you will be visiting, and the hotel accommodations you prefer. Some websites offer you more control and options to select, depending on how much or how little you need, so do your research before buying a Disney vacation package.
Disneyland rates are also generally cheaper during off season. Summer days (late June until Labor Day), Christmas season (two weeks before Christmas until New Years Day), and Spring Break are considered as peak season, and tickets are more expensive during these times. If you plan to save, visit Disneyland during off season.
What do you want the most out of your vacation experience? You can select which Disney vacation package is perfect for your wants and needs, whether it’s rest and relaxation, fun and excitement, fond memories with family and friends, great food, or luxurious accommodations. For a truly magical experience without devastating your wallet, avail of cheap Disney vacation packages online. They are certainly worth every penny.
For more great information on Cheap Disney Vacation Packages
visit our new website www.allmytraveltips.com. And for more great articles visit www.thewhatfactory.com today.
Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/cheap-disney-vacation-packages-a-cheap-family-vacation-1161716.html
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »
Sunday, August 16th, 2009
If you are wondering where to take your family holidays this year, take a look at a few destinations that can offer you holidays of sun, sea and sand. Ranging from Cyprus in the eastern Mediterranean to the Canary Islands in the Atlantic, here is a brief guide to some wonderful places to take holidays in the sun.
Tenerife
Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands located off the west coast of Africa. With temperatures that barely dip below 20° Celsius all year, this is the place to come for sun holidays. In the summer months, you could see temperatures in the 30s, perfect for sizzling on a sun lounger and enhancing that tan.
As well as soaking up some rays, your holidays in the sun might include a walk into the craggy mountain ranges and the National Parks. Mount Teide is the highest peak, at the centre of the island. It reaches a commanding height of 3718 metres, and you can take a dramatic cable car ride to the top.
Lanzarote
Lanzarote is another of the Canary Islands with dramatic National Parks to explore on family holidays, but one here in particular is very different. At Timanfaya National Park you can see volcanic landscapes with ashen sand and giant volcano craters. There are tours of the area by bus or on camel back over the lava landscape.
There are beautiful beaches on Lanzarote often with facilities for water sports. You will be happy relaxing on the golden sands here or enjoying the sea on your holidays in the sun. Because of the volcanic activity, some of the beaches have black sand too.
Cyprus
This island in the eastern Mediterranean has good beaches, beautiful views and plenty of sun. Holidays here will benefit from summer temperatures that can reach 36°C with almost no rainfall.
Paphos, the former capital of Cyprus, is a historical coastal city with a number of examples of ancient Greek architecture. There are some grand hotels around Paphos such as the Alexander the Great Hotel and the St George Hotel, which are made with family holidays in mind. With well kept grounds, palm trees and sea views, these are relaxing and comfortable places to take your holidays in the sun.
Croatia
Croatia doesn't get the attention it deserves, and may not be the first place you think of for family holidays. It is a green place with fresh air and rich forests, such as the ones that surround the beautiful lakes at Plitvice National Park, which is a great place for nature lovers - there are even wolves and bears here.
Croatia has plenty to offer holiday makers looking to see come culture too. In the cities of Split and Dubrovnik you can find medieval forts, graceful churches, and gothic palaces. A visit to the historic City of Trogir will show you a well preserved example of buildings from the renaissance and the preceding Greek and Roman empires. It's once of six historical sites in Croatia protected by UNESCO because of its cultural importance.
What's more, with seaside resorts on a long varied coastline, and temperatures to rival Italy on the other side of the Adriatic, Croatia makes its case for being a venue for holidays in the sun.
Jane Wilkinson is head of Marketing for Essential Sun. The travel company offers a great range of family holidays with their trained advisors available to help you find your ideal holiday at an unbeatable price.Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/family-holidays-in-the-sun-1131171.html
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »
Sunday, August 16th, 2009
The Mekong Delta is the name given to the area of south western Vietnam where the Mekong River approaches and enters the sea. The Vietnamese refer to this area as the Nine Dragon River Delta and this region is the perfect place to explore and get a feel for the local culture whilst on your Vietnam tour.
The best way to experience the culture of the local people on your Vietnam holiday is by arranging a visit to a local market. In Saigon, Ben Thanh is the place that the locals visit to buy their food and catch up with all the weekly gossip. The market is also the perfect place to do a spot of historic sightseeing on your Vietnam holidays, as the Old Saigon Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral and Reunification Palace are all located a short walk away. The Reunification Palace was historically said to be the place that the Vietnam War ended on 30 April, 1973, as it was here that tank number 843 rammed through its gates after Saigon surrended.
Another well known district worth visiting on your Vietnam holiday is the area of the Chu Chi tunnels. This immense network of underground tunnels was the location of several military campaigns during the Vietnam War and also an underground base for the Viet Cong. It is possible to arrange a tour by a Vietnam War Veteran and listen to some of their incredible experiences during your Vietnam holiday. You are certain to leave the tunnels feeling incredibly humbled over some of the experiences that you have heard.
If you enjoyed visiting Ben Thanh then take a Vietnam tour, on a traditional flat-bottomed Sampan boat, up the Mekong to the famous fish market. Whilst here you can experience the local culture and visit a traditional Vietnamese village, where the friendly locals are bound to make you feel more than welcome.
The Cai Rang Floating Markets are amongst the third biggest in the country, and when you take a Vietnam tour in this area you're sure to attract the attention of many hawkers. Fresh papaya, coconut candy, beer and even smuggled cigarettes are amongst the items that you will find for sale in the region. From the Cai Rang Floating Market you can also arrange excursions to visit bee farms, orchards and coconut candy factories, all of which will give you ample opportunity to try the local produce.
Before leaving your Vietnam tour and sailing up the Mekong River to Cambodia you may want to stop over in the Khmer town of Chau Doc. Chau Doc is famous for its range of fish sauces and trade in catfish, and as such the floating fish houses are one of the most visited attractions in the area. These houses are lived in by the local population but feature giant floating fish cages underneath the living area.
Sunset at the Sam Mountain is sure to be one of the highlights of your Vietnam holiday. As you extend up the mountain, there are plenty of attractions that can be visited en-route from the Tay An Pagoda, to the Temple of Lady Xu and the Tomb of Thoai Ngoc Hau. However, with the sunsetting over the green paddy fields and views of Cambodia in the distance, here is the perfect place to end your Vietnam tour.
Darshi Chohan is a holiday expert for Tropical Locations, a specialist operator providing Vietnam holidays and luxury holidays to other destination in to the Far East, Indian Ocean, Arabia & India. Tropical Locations has a dedicated team of experienced travel consultants ready to share their knowledge and help you to plan and book your ideal holiday.Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/exploring-the-mekong-delta-1129660.html
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »
Saturday, August 15th, 2009
Son Bou villas are great places to stay for a holiday in Menorca. This article takes a look at some experiences you can seek out on your Son Bou holidays, such as the regional food and the local attractions away from the shore.
Most Son Bou villas are located in two hillside zones called San Jamie and Torre Soli Nou, the latter being the quieter of the two. Both are pretty areas of pine woodland with picturesque views of the sea and the Menorcan countryside. Within a few miles is the hilltop site of Torre d'en Galmés where you can find the remains of an ancient Menorcan settlement.
Megaliths
Torre d'en Galmés is a good place to learn about Menorca's past, and you can walk under the stone archways that once were home to prehistoric man. It is located within a few miles of the Son Bou villas and you can reach it by taking the road that runs between Son Bou and the inland town of Alaior. The stone structures at Torre d'en Galmés are called talaiots, and they date back to the Bronze Age. The ruins are high on a hill that provides a wonderful view of the island, and these are just one example of the many ancient stone edifices scattered throughout Menorca.
Local Food
If you have a taste for seafood then you should make sure you sample some Menorcan specialties during your Son Bou holiday. You can try some of the traditional seafood dishes at the restaurants in Son Bou, as well as the popular Paella, there's a rich lobster dish called caldreta, and battered octopus called chiprones. Of course, you may not want to eat in a restaurant every night. If you choose, you and your family can enjoy a meal al fresco on the terrace of your Son Bou villa, cooking dinner on the barbecue.
Flocking to Son Bou
Although it is a less fashionable activity for a Son Bou holiday, bird watching is quite good here because of the local nature reserve, and enthusiasts will visit the reserve to see rare birds. Even people who don't appreciate ornithology will be impressed by the thousands of sparrows and swifts that will sometimes fill the sky above Son Bou.
You can see the best wildlife at the western end of the Son Bou nature reserve which is further away from the hotels at the east end of the beach, and closer to the quieter areas where the Son Bou villas are. Species that visit Menorca include the Tawny Pipit, Shearwater, Great-white Egret, Bee-eater, Marsh Harrier and Nightingale, as well as more impressive birds like the Booted Eagle and Egyptian Vulture.
August is a good time for a bird-watching Son Bou holiday because it is during migration season, so there will be plenty to see in the sky.
Beach
Of course, most people flock to Son Bou for a different reason. Access to Menorca's longest beach is the main allure of Son Bou holidays. On a coastline with white sand and a sea that can appear bright blue because of the clear water, it's a great place to play in the waves, or just to look out on as you sunbathe.
Brenda Jaaback is the Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you with a wide selection of Son Bou villas perfect for your Menorca holidays. Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of any information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information contained in it.Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/things-to-do-in-son-bou-1128304.html
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »