What To Look For When Reserving Or Renting Hotel Rooms

Almost all of us have to reserve hotel rooms at one time or the other. Those in the process of booking comfortable accommodation in Windermere Hotels or somewhere else must consider the following:

  1. Thorough search – It is suggested that a wide hunt is made before making reservation in any hotel. One can ask his friends, relatives or other known people that might have stayed in good hotels. Likewise going through the newspapers, yellow pages or a click at the mouse can be of great help in finding good hotels.
  2. Essentials – All the needed facilities must be provided by the hotels. Those staying in hotel rooms must be reminded of their own homes. No compromise should ever be made with the amenities that are a must. Hotel rooms with attractive views, entertainment facilities including flat screen TV and spa with hair dryers etc are appreciated by all. Lake escapes, tasty drinks and promotional deals are also a must. Those hiring hotel rooms must look for discounts, event tickets and gift vouchers too that are usually offered by prominent hotels. Gym facilities, hot deals, sincere staff, tea/coffee making arrangements and rooms with private colonies are some of the facilities that must be looked for when you wish to stay in any hotel.
  3. Nutrient foods – It is not only the comfortable accommodation that is provided by the hotels. They need to provide healthy foods too to the visitors that stay in their rooms. All types of foods including the vegetarian and non-vegetarian are a must on the part of the hotels that are hired by anyone. The foods provided by the hotel staff must be enriched with the requisite vitamins, nutrients and other minerals etc.
  4. Transportation and location – A suitable location of the hotels is a must. Those staying in hotel rooms must be able to reach them in easy manners. Hotels located at centralized points near to the public transport, local markets and hospitals should only be preferred by the hirers. Many concerns like Windermere Hotels make their own transportation arrangements for the visitors. They take care in picking them up from the airport, bus terminus or the railway stations.
  5. Hotel staff – Those booking rooms in any hotel must see that the staff provided by the managements is sincere enough. The hotel employees must be at the disposal of the visitors that must be satisfied with their services. No room should be left for any complaint on the part of the visitors as regards the behavior of the hotels staff.
  6. Booking charges – Those hiring hotel rooms must ensure that the charges asked by the hotel managements do not become any burden upon them. It is wise to compare the rates by going through the relevant websites of few prominent ones like Windermere Hotels that facilitate their rental charges through internet. The hotel bills should not include any hidden costs.

The above simple tips can be of great help in hiring good hotels with great facilities at genuine charges.

Nashville, for lovers of music and food

Nashville_Tennessee_Skyline

Nashville, the capital of Tennessee, is widely known for being the country music capital of the world. Although the country roots of the city are thriving, Nashville isn’t just for cowboys and honky-tonks anymore. The city has much more to offer than meets the eye. Visit Nashville for a perfectly balanced taste of history, music, food, and fun.

nashville tn cityscape
nashville tn cityscape

 

Transportation around the City


If you’re planning to visit Nashville, be sure to have a vehicle, or at least the ability to rent one. Although there are ample roadways, there isn’t much in the way of public transit throughout the city. Also, Nashville has up-and-coming areas such as East Nashville, that you’ll want the opportunity to visit. If you find yourself in Nashville without a vehicle, you do have a few options. Within downtown, the Music City Circuit is a free bus service that runs two routes through the downtown corridor every 10 to 15 minutes. Also, the Music City Trolley Hop offers a one hour narrated tour of all Nashville’s top attractions, with the option of getting off at seven different stops. The trolley begins at $28 per person. There’s also ample taxis available for transportation throughout the city.

 

Music Scene

Nashville’s rich history in the music industry provides much to see and do. At the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum guests can embark on a journey through decades of music history. General admission is $24.95 (13+), $14.95 (6-12), and free for kids under the age of five. While visiting the museum, you should also check out the Historic RCA Studio B. Tours depart from the museum hourly between 10:30 and 2:30. Many famous names, such as Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings recorded in Studio B. Tickets to the studio are only available in conjunction with admission to the museum in a Platinum package, costing $39.95 for adults.

One of the most unique ways to take in music in Nashville is at a songwriters show, also known as a writer’s night. Popular spots to find shows are at the famous Bluebird Cafe in Green Hills and The Listening Room Cafe in downtown. For history lovers, a visit to Ryman Auditorium and The Grand Ole Opry is a must on the to-do list. The Ryman Auditorium has been teeming with world renown artists since 1892. The Grand Ole Opry, a cornerstone of Nashville history, hosts performers every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday night. Tours of the Ryman are available daily and are $20 for adults and $15 for children ages 4-11. Tickets to a show at The Grand Ole Opry start at $35.

grand ole opry
grand ole opry

 

hall of fame
hall of fame

 

Eat a Bite…or two

Music may have put Nashville on the map, but it’s up-and-coming food scene is gaining ground. Condé Nast Traveler stated this about the city’s food, “There’s enough going on food-wise to warrant a trip solely for eating”. Eating your way through Nashville is as good a plan as any, and it is sure to not disappoint. You can even take a foodie tour to sample great restaurants in Nashville’s most unique neighborhoods.

Some of Nashville’s most iconic foods, like barbecue and hot chicken, should definitely be on your bucket list.

Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack in East Nashville has been serving up hot chicken, a food synonymous with Music City, for decades. Arnold’s Country Kitchen on 8th Ave downtown serves up classic “meat and three” combos like meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and collard greens. Another iconic must- have is a hot biscuit covered in gravy from Loveless Cafe, located on Highway 100. For burgers, The Pharmacy reigns supreme, serving up unique combinations in a vintage-inspired atmosphere. In the way of barbecue, Nashville’s options overflow. Some of the local favorites include Bar-B-Cutie, a Nashville original turned franchise; Jacks Bar-B-Que, open since 1975; and Hog Heaven, known for their kickin’ chicken white bbq sauce.

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arnolds array

 

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loveless cafe

 

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princes hot chicken

 

Honky Tonk Highway: Nashville’s Night Life

Looking for a good time? Look no further than Nashville’s Honky Tonk Highway also known as the Broadway Historic District. Beginning at the corner of Fifth and Broadway, Honky Tonk Highway is a stretch of bars and clubs known for it’s fun atmosphere and music. On the “highway” you’ll find everything from the famous Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge to low key bluegrass clubs. Ice cold long necks, music, and dancing are in ample supply well into the early morning (3am to be exact) and you’ll never pay a cover charge.

honkytonk
honkytonk

 

Whether you’re on the hunt for some iconic hot chicken, a tour of Elvis’ recording studio, or a good time downtown, Music City has you covered.

 

Sources:

http://www.historicnashvilleinc.org/history/

http://www.grayline.com/tours/nashville/music-city-trolley-double-decker-hop-on-hop-off-tour-5925_13/

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g55229-s302/Nashville:Tennessee:Getting.Around.html

http://countrymusichalloffame.org/ContentPages/buy-tickets

http://studiob.org/

http://www.visitmusiccity.com/visitors/thingstodo/10things

https://www.opryentertainmentgroup.com/Opry/Online/mapSelect.asp?BOset%3A%3AWSmap%3A%3Aseatmap%3A%3Aperformance_ids=74D68701-5A56-44B4-ADE9-591F1963FD26#_ga=1.117273605.2034100633.1467310523

https://www.thrillist.com/eat/nashville/nashville-s-most-iconic-food-and-drinks?vc=2542

https://www.thrillist.com/eat/nashville/nashville-s-best-bbq

https://www.tnvacation.com/vendors/broadway-historic-district-honky-tonks

Activities to Keep the Kids Entertained in Dubai

Dubai is as much a playground for kids as it is for adults, with numerous ride and attractions available across the city that will keep their busy little bodies busy and entertained throughout your holiday to the magical city. To help you plan a holiday filled with adventure, we are going to look at three fun-filled attractions and activities you can take part in with your child while on holiday in Dubai this year:

motiongate™ DUBAI

 

 

motiongate™ is a theme park in Dubai that offers visitors the chance to explore a magical world filled with rides and attractions that are based on a number of popular movies. Perfect for both adults and children alike, the theme park includes fast and furious rides for those who dare to climb aboard the numerous roller-coasters, and an array of rides and attractions – that include Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs: River Expedition, Ghostbusters: Battle for New York (an interactive ride), Smurfs Village Playhouse (where kids can view a live animated show and interact with Brainy Smurf and the rest of the cast), Melman-Go-Round, and many more – that the kids will thoroughly enjoy.

Creekside Park

 

Creekside Park is the perfect place to spend time with your family outdoors, ensuring your children get some much-needed fresh air and exercise while on holiday. With green and luscious lawn as far as the eye can see, there is plenty of room for the little ones to run around while you set up your picnic in the shade under one of the many trees. What’s more, Creekside Park boasts botanical gardens, an 18-hole mini golf course, an amphitheatre, several picnic locations that include barbecue facilities, a mini train that rides through parts of the park, and a number of safe and secure children’s play areas where they are able to climb, swing, and enjoy a day outside. Note: There is an AED 5 entrance fee to enter the park and it is open daily from 8 am until 10 pm. Wednesdays are reserved for women and children only.

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Situated in the Dubai Mall – one of the largest malls in the world – the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo will not only provide your children with an entertaining and fun day out, but an educational one, too. The aquarium includes one of the world’s largest viewing panels, as well as one of the largest tanks in the world, meaning there is no way you or your children will miss out on viewing the numerous aquatic animals that call Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo their home. There is a chance to see the feeding of the Sand Tiger Sharks, King Croc, and the beautiful Stingrays, as well as view a number of educational animal presentations – that include experienced educators answering any questions visitors may have, as well as conducting presentations with their otters, water rats, piranhas and penguins – that take place every hour.

Treat yourselves and your children to a holiday filled with fun, educational activities and attractions that will help them grow both mentally and physically as well as learn something new.

THE SEYCHELLES, Anarchipelago of islands of the Indian Ocean

Off the Indian Ocean lies the Seychelles, a land full of an awe of beauty right form the beaches, the coral reefs, its deep waters known for diving, nature reserves up to the rare wildlife such as the giant Aldabra tortoise. A travel to this rare beauty is one to look forward to making a visit. Seychelles is therefore regarded as a town where tourism as an industry thrives well.

What you need to know

Geography

The Seychelles is a collection of several islands listed in groups;

  • Granite based islands such as Mahe, Praslin silhouette island and Felicite islands
  • The coral sand cays which include, Denis,Bird Platte and Coevitty
  • Coral islands in the amirants group, The Alphonse,Benjamin and Etoile
  • Coral islands in the Farquhar groupsuch as ,North Manaha, Middle Manaha and South Manaha and lastly the raised coral islands in the aldabra group comprising of Picard and Malabar just but to name a few of the islands in each group

Wildlife

The island can pride itself in having a range of wildlife almost rare in other countries. Be it forests that can only be described as an epitome of fathoming beauty, it holds the world rarest bird the Seychelles’ black parrot (the national bird of the country) the giant aldabra tortoise, the paradise fly catcher, neriteplicata, and the common sea bird flocks in the islands, fresh water crabs and several unique varieties of orchids
Worth noting is the marine life around the lands which can be very spectacular recording more than 1000 species of fish.

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Aldabra gian tortoise
nerite plicata
nerite plicata
ladigue-paradise-flycatcher-RyOLs72S
The paradise fly catcher

Culture and cuisine

The cuisine in this islands is mostly dominated by fish dishes often accompanied with rice, the culinary involved in preparation may range from steaming, grilling ,baking or smoking and the famous ladob eaten as a dessert comprising of ripe plantain and sweet potatoes but may include cassava, breadfruit or even corossol. Apart from this staple food, you are likely to come across chicken dishes dhal (lentils) and fresh tropical fruits. The island is a fusion of many cultures blending from African and Asian and European descent given there were no original inhabitants creating a modern creole culture.

Landmarks

The Seychelles landmarks range from the prominent clock tower in the middle of Victoria to a former slave school (the mission slave lounge) on the coast of Mahe. The island is a host to almost thirty monuments all protected because of their historic and archeological significance. However, the majority of the landmarks oldest monuments, creole buildings and colonial structures are on the Mahe Island. Making a travel around the island is refreshing.

The clock tower(also known as the lorloz)

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Transportation and accommodation
Transportation around the island is not quite a problem. You can either choose from a detailed bus scheduled with exact arrival and departure times, independently operated taxis available on Mahe, Praslin and la digue islands or hire cars with one of the several companies at the international airport at Mahe and at larger hotels. However most companies require you to have a valid E.U or International license and will deliver the rental at you place of choice. Hired vehicles can also be booked through the ground-handling operator. A shuttle service also operates between Praslin and Mahe Island the flight only lasting 15 minutes making it easier for a tourist to explore the two islands. Connecting the island can be done by sea where both the traditional and modern ferries which allow you to enjoy the cool sea breeze.
The island offers very comfortable accommodation suited to individual afford. The hotels include Northolme resort and spa, Banyan tree, Barbarons resort and spa, Kempinski, Le relax hotel and restaurant and Eden bleu. All giving the best service to make the customer feel relaxed and enjoy the stay all the way. This is why the inhabitants embrace tourism.

Tour Santa Monica

California is known to be one of the most beautiful states with plenty of attractive must-visit areas. One place you do not want to miss is Santa Monica, just west of downtown Los Angeles. From hot tourist attractions to relaxing sunsets on the beach, Santa Monica has endless possibilities that will make it your dream vacation.

One of the most well-known spots in Santa Monica is Venice Beach. This is the place to go if you’re interested in finding some souvenirs to take home or purchase some unique art. Street vendors sell anything from paintings to henna tattoos.

If you’re interested in shopping and hitting up the hottest boutiques, check out Third Street Promenade. Not only will you have access to multiple high-end outlets all on one street, but you’ll also get to enjoy a variety of street performers, including, bands, musicians, and more. Stores on Third Street Promenade include Brandy Melville, jewelry boutiques, Abercrombie and Fitch, Fossil, gift shops, street vendors, and more.

santa monica shopping area, Third Street Promenade

Although not commonly known as a tourist attraction, the Santa Monica Airport is a neat spot to visit. Head on up to the observation deck to watch planes take off and land right in front of your eyes. Grab a bite to eat at the Typhoon restaurant while you’re at it!

santa monica airport

 

A trip to California is not complete without spending a day on the beach. Visit famous spots such as Muscle Beach or find a less-crowded spot to watch a spectacular sunset over the ocean. Take a dip in the cool water and maybe catch a wave or two.

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Easily one of the most famous attractions of Santa Monica is the Santa Monica Pier. Here, you’ll find restaurants, gift shops, the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, and the iconic Ferris wheel, part of Pacific Ocean Park (which offers other amusement rides, as well, for $5- $8 per ride for one person). Walk down to the end of the pier to witness a fantastic view of the Pacific Ocean, or have fun on the rollercoaster and other attractions. At night, watch the Ferris wheel light up as you enjoy a concert.

 

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Santa Monica has a wide variety of restaurants for you to try out. For the seafood-lover, check out Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. at the pier. Tender Greens is the place to go for all-around American cuisine. If you are a vegan or vegetarian, great options include Café Gratitude, Thai Vegan, and Native Foods Café.

As far as transportation goes, the city busses (Big Blue Bus) are your best bet. Of course, having your own car is nice, but you’ll be competing with LA traffic and it is often not worth it to own a car when many places are within walking distance from most residential areas. For the places that you can’t walk to, city bus rides are $1 per ride. Special prices exist for seniors and college students, and multiple-ride passes are available starting from $4 for a day pass up to $50 for an unlimited-ride local 30-day pass. City busses can take you to and from a variety of places, including Santa Monica College and Third Street Promenade. Alternatively, Uber is a quick and easy way to get from one place to another without having to wait for a bus.

 

Whatever your main reason for visiting Santa Monica is, there is a little bit of something for everybody. For college kids, a day of shopping and hanging out on the beach is likely to be the highlight of the trip. For a couple on a romantic getaway, an evening at a fancy restaurant followed by a walk down Third Street Promenade is the way to go. Kids are most likely to enjoy a day at Pacific Ocean Park on the pier and a visit to the Santa Monica Airport. With so many options for entertainment, a vacation to Santa Monica will not disappoint- just remember to schedule enough days to fit it all in!

Cagliari, a little-known treasure

People travel to Sardinia for the sun, sea and sand and the historical capital city Cagliari is often overlooked. With beautiful buildings, glamorous shopping streets and some great local restaurants Cagliari is a great destination in its own right. What’s more, young Sardinians are starting to realize the lucrative possibilities of their city as a tourist destination and some cool budget accommodation options are beginning to emerge.

Cagliari

Transportation and Accommodation

A taxi from the Cagliari-Elmas International Airport to the city centre costs approximately 30 euros. You can also take the train or the bus. Trains in Sardinia are efficient and from the city’s main station, Ferrovie dello Stato you can get connections to destinations all over the island.
Most of the hotels are located in the old town or behind Via Roma. There is also a lot of accommodation in the port area. Il Cagliarese on Via Vittorio Porcile is a great value, quirky guesthouse with friendly hosts who will give you reliable tips on where to go and what to see. http://www.ilcagliarese.it

Things to do and sights to see

Unlike other major European tourist destinations such as Barcelona, Cagliari does not advertise itself as a weekend getaway and as a result is not swarming with tourists.
The old medieval town or castello is an interesting place to spend an afternoon. At the top of the hill, the view across the city to the sea is spectacular. The view gets even better if you climb the Torre di San Pancrazio (not recommended if you suffer from vertigo!).
One of the most interesting sites in the old town is the observation deck Bastione San Remy, which was used as a shelter during World War Two. The cathedral is well worth a visit and other beautiful churches include the Collegiata di Sant’Anna. Architecture buffs will be interested in the examples of Fascist neoclassical architecture, such as the Palazzo di Giustizia in Republic Square.
Near the port, there are many spectacular 19th and early 20th buildings. Spend a few hours wandering along Via Roma taking in the grandeur and the designer stores.

 

Food and tips

One of the most romantic things to do in Cagliari after dark is dine al fresco. Sardinian cuisine is distinct from Italian food and one of the island’s great attractions. You will find high-quality seafood dishes near the port but local specialties are actually hearty meat-based dishes like sausage stew and roast suckling pig. Most of the restaurants cluster together in the area directly behind Via Roma although it is definitely worth exploring further afield.
Cagliari is heaven if you have a sweet tooth. Traditional pastries and cakes are routinely served with coffee and ice cream is a local specialty. You will find gelaterias on every street corner and in every square. The city is also great for coffee lovers. Caffes generally have terraces where you can spend an afternoon reading and people watching. Some of the best, including Antico Caffe, are in Piazza Costituzione. http://www.charmingsardinia.com/sardinia/antico_caffe_cagliari.html

Cagliari
Cagliari is well worth a few days’ visit before you head to the beach. Go, but don’t tell anyone!

Corsica, island of beauty

Off the coast of France rests a small island in the mediterranean. Traded from one country to another throughout the centuries, it begrudgingly remains a small, but very proud region of France. The island sits nearly forgotten from October until May, but in the summer months, Corsica comes alive as the “ile de la beaute”, or “island of beauty”. The nickname is fitting for this stunning island, with its turquoise beaches, soft sands and jagged mountains. The juxtaposition of its landscape makes for one heck of a postcard. Because the terrain is so varied, Corsica is perfect for anyone from the avid hiker to the lazy beach bum.

People

Corsica is technically a region of France, but the people who live there could more accurately be described as Italians who happen to speak french. Everyone is warm, and welcoming. They want you there and they want you to enjoy their island. And there is so much to do and see, it’s not a very difficult task.

Food

The food in Corsica tastes Italian with a French twist. The pizza and pasta is to die for, but then again so are the crepes and galettes. If you want to eat something more traditional you can’t go wrong with Corsica’s figatellu, a traditional spiced sausage or blettes, a regional savory pastry. But if you’re not hungry, a simple coffee by the sea will wake you up and make you wonder how French coffee can taste so much better.

Cities to Visit

There are more than few major cities in Corsica worth seeing. Ajaccio, is not only the capital of the island, but is also Napoleon Bonaparte’s birthplace. Ties to Napoleon are all over the city from the main drag, Cours Napoleon, to souvenirs shops that sell everything from Napoleon mugs to hand towels. It’s even possible to go and visit the house where he was born.

coast costarica

Ajaccio is a beautiful town with a sparkling blue ocean and palm trees against a backdrop of severe-looking mountains. Although Ajaccio is beautiful in the summertime, in the spring, it snows in the mountains, but stays warm enough to swim in the sea. In the early spring, it is possible to go skiing at “valle d’eze”, a slope with a view. Only 45 minutes from Ajaccio, it’s possible to ski up high and look at the sea below.

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However, Ajaccio isn’t the only major city worth a visit. To the north is Bastia, Corsica’s other major city. A bit of a younger crowd, Bastia has a great nightlife scene. Whether you’re having drinks by the marina, or find a cool new bar in the old town, you won’t be bored. Also situated by the sea, Bastia offers more of a hustle and bustle atmosphere. Just as pretty as Ajaccio, it is split into old and new town. New town boasts lots of shopping and restaurants while old town’s historic center is perfect for any history buff.

corsica

Slightly south of Bastia is Corte, the only university town in Corsica. The city is nestled in the mountains. At first you might think you made a wrong turn and ended up in Utah. Although hiking is big in all of Corsica, the hiking trails around Corte are some of the best on the island. The waterfalls and rocky cliffs are worth the sometimes strenuous trek.

Haute-Corse

Haute-corse, or Northern Corsica, is the very tippy top of the island. Regarded by Corsicans as the most traditional region, it may also be the most picturesque. Tiny towns have remained nestled in their hillsides for centuries. If you have a car and don’t mind the windy roads, haute-corse is perfect for a romantic time away. Flit from one town to another, enjoying the quiet atmosphere. Little churches, cafes and boutique hotels abound in this part of the island.

bonifacio corsica

Corsica is magic. It’s just off the beaten track to where it isn’t swimming with tourists, but touristy enough so if you don’t speak French, it’s never a problem. Whether you’re into a day at the beach, a great nightlife scene, a romantic getaway, or an avid hiker, there is something for everyone. This sunny destination welcomes you home.

Exploring St.John’s: One of the Oldest Cities In North America

When people think of vacation they imagine themselves soaking in the sun shine on a nice sandy beach, not soaking wet from walking around in rain and fog, which will likely be the case if you visit St. John’s, Newfoundland. But don’t let the horrible weather deter you. St. John’s is a beautiful city with as much character as there are bars on George Street.

Weather wise, August and September are the best months to visit. They tend to be the warmest (high 20’s ºC is usually as hot as it gets) and have the least amount of rainfall. The temperature can drop quite a bit in the evening though, so make sure to bring some warm clothes along with those shorts and tees.

If you’re planning to come to Newfoundland to see the icebergs then be prepared for the cold. Iceberg season is late May to June and with the ice comes northerly winds. Temperatures fluctuate a lot this time of year so layering will be your best friend. So, now that you know what to pack, let’s talk about what you can do once you land in this colorful city.

Museums

The Rooms – 9 Bonaventure Ave.

Hours – Monday, Tuesday, Thursday-Saturday:10-5; Wednesday:10-9; Sunday:12-5

Cost – Free(children 5 and under)-$10; they do offer free admissions to everyone on Wednesdays between 6-9pm

If you’re in St. John’s, you need to check out The Rooms. For one, it’s one of the coolest buildings you will ever see and has amazing views of the harbour and downtown. It’s also the best place to learn some Newfoundland history. If history is not your thing there are art exhibits and a cafe which sells really yummy food.

 

Johnson Geo Centre – Signal Hill

Hours – 9:30am-5pm everyday

Cost – Free(children 5 and under)-$12

This place is a must if you have kids that are into science. With exhibits ranging from the solar system to geology to the history of the Titanic, there is a lot to see and learn. Plus, it’s on the way to Cabot Tower (one of the biggest tourist attractions here) so why not stop in on the way.

Historical Sites

Signal Hill/Cabot Tower

Signal Hill - Cabot Tower

Located on the east end of downtown St. John’s, this historical site offers some of the best views in the city. It is the site of the famous Cabot Tower, which was built in 1898 to commemorate the 400th year anniversary of the discovery of Newfoundland by John Cabot. It is also where the first transatlantic wireless signal was received by Marconi in 1901. Cabot Tower is open to the public during summer months. There is a gift shop and some steep stairs that lead you to the top of the tower. It is a amazing view but if you’re afraid of heights, skip out on this one.

Cape Spear

You will need a car to get here but it is definitely worth it. Cape Spear is about a 20 minute drive outside of St. John’s and is site to one of the oldest lighthouses in Newfoundland and the remnants of a World War II coastal defence fort. During the summer months the lighthouse keeper’s family home is open to the public, giving you a look at what a home would have looked like in the 1800’s. You can walk the trails, explore the fort ruins, stand in the most easterly point of North America and get some really nice pictures to show your friends and family back home.

Food and Drink

George Street

If you are 19 or older and want to check out the night life, this is the place to go. It is a little street in downtown St. John’s that only contains bars. That’s it! There are 21 in total ranging from Irish pubs to dance clubs.

Looking to be Screeched-In Christian’s Bar is the best place to do it.

This is a very short list of the things to do here. The best way to experience the city is to just walk around downtown. Get lost, see the old building, eat a touton at the Bagel Cafe, talk to the locals and just take in the culture. You’ll love it here so much you’ll be planning you’re next trip before you even leave.

Experience Magical Niagara Falls

Some things can’t be fully appreciated without a personal visit. Niagara Falls is definitely in that category. There are millions of photos taken of this natural wonder but none will ever capture the majesty of this impressive sight. You need to stand alongside the brink and watch as water thunders over the edge and then crashes below. Feel the mist on your skin. It’s a multi-sensory experience where words can’t fully capture the essence.

One of the great things about Niagara Falls is that it’s situated between the United States and Canada. You can fly into one of three international airports which are located in Buffalo, Toronto and Hamilton. There are transportation choices from any of these locations. You can arrange for a hotel stay on either the American or the Canadian side which are connected by several bridges. The Rainbow bridge has a pedestrian walkway so you can easily go from country to to country via foot or bike.

Plan to spend a few days because there’s so much to do. On the American side you’ll find a lovely park with paved pathways that take you alongside the river and over bridges. Bring a picnic lunch or purchase food from one of the many restaurant offerings. Whether you are looking for quick fast food, ethnic varieties or something more upscale, you’ll be able to find it. There are many other fun attractions in the area as well.

The Canadian side offers the beautiful Queen Victoria Park and Oakes Gardens. Walk along the gorge and then tour the picturesque gardens. The Butterfly Observatory offers a peaceful place to view some of the most delicate and colorful butterfly you’ll ever see. After you’ve had your fill of nature you can head back into the city area for a high-energy good time. Lundy lane is full of tourist attractions and you can easily spend hours visiting the museums, exhibits and indulging the many choices for food. Enjoy the amusement park rides or visit the water park. There’s fun for the whole family.
While new attractions come along every year or so, there’s some that have been there for decades. Here’s some of the most visited sights:

The Cave of the Winds is a series of wooden walkways that bring you right up close to the falls. You’ll be loaned a raincoat and you’ll definitely need it.

Cave of the Winds www.niagarafallsstatepark.com
Cave of the Winds
www.niagarafallsstatepark.com

The Maid of the Mist is a boat ride that brings you directly to the base of the falls. You don’t want to miss this one! You can board from either the American or Canadian side of the falls.

Maid of the Mist www.cliftonhill.com
Maid of the Mist
www.cliftonhill.com

The Journey Behind the Falls takes you down through a tunnel and you’ll emerge behind the falls. Marilyn Monroe was filmed in this attraction for the movie Niagara.

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Journey Behind the Falls www.niagarafallstourism.com

The Whirlpool Aero Car is a suspended cable car crosses the gorge directly over the giant whirlpool on the Niagara River. Access is only from Canada.

Whirlpool Aero Car tripadvisor.com
Whirlpool Aero Car
tripadvisor.com

That’s simply the beginning of the many ways to enjoy Niagara Falls. One popular way to see a lot of the sights is to purchase the Discovery Pass. Pay one price and you and you can visit all these attractions:

  • Niagara Adventure Theater
  • Aquarium of Niagara
  • Cave of the Winds Trip
  • Niagara Gorge Discovery Center
  • Maid of the Mist ®

Window Price: Adults-ages 13+ $63.25 – Children 6-12 $43.25

Online price: Adults ages 13+ $45.00-Children 6-12 $34.00

Admission is free for children five & under at all attractions in Niagara Falls State Park.

Visit Brazil, the Land of Diversity

Centrally situated in South America, Brazil is the largest country on the continent. It consists of similar geography and topography across the country, and it has a very diverse population. Brazil is no stranger to tourism as people from across the globe come to visit year round. Its history, culture, and tourist attractions are just a few things that draw people to Brazil.

The people of Brazil have an intriguing cultural background. While visiting, you are guaranteed to meet people from various ethnicities, including Native American, African American, European or Asian descent, and a combination of these. Brazilians are friendly, honest people who enjoy companionship. They are known to invite people to have lunch or dinner with them at their houses. One of the most significant events that happens in Brazil every year is Carnival. Carnival is a week long celebration that occurs after Lent, and consists of dancing, fascinating costumes, floats, and all out celebration. If you like partying, definitely visit Brazil around the time of Carnival.

Tourism is a big industry in Brazil, especially in the southeastern region of the country. One of the most popular tourism destinations is the city of Rio de Janeiro. People flock to this city to visit its beautiful beaches, one of the most well-known being Copacabana. Brazilians love soccer, so it should come as no surprise that Rio has the largest soccer stadium, the Maracana Stadium. Downtown Rio has plenty of sites to see, including many churches, cathedrals and historic sites. The concrete Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro, the Municipal Theater, and the National Library are some great places to go see. South of downtown is where Copacabana and a few of the beaches are located, as well as the famous Sugarloaf Mountain. You have to take two cable cars up to the top, and the view is breath taking, as can be seen in this photo.

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If you aren’t too familiar with Rio, don’t go to the favelas north of the city. This is a poorer part of town where a lot of crime happens. This is only one city in Brazil. Brasilia are two other cities one can visit while in the country.

Brasilia is especially interesting to those who are interested in architecture, as many of the buildings downtown are designed to match each other with the same style. The city is built along the shore of Lake Paranoa.

Lago-Paranoa

This is especially appealing to those who enjoy such activities as fishing, kayaking, and boating, as well as wind surfing and diving. If you prefer to stick to downtown settings, there is a lot to see in downtown Brasilia. The architect Oscar Niemeyer designed the majority of the buildings found here. The Congressional Palace is an impressive structure; it is composed of two towers connected by a concrete dome and a concrete bowl called the Chamber of Deputies. Perhaps more impressive is the city’s cathedral. The National Theater and Itamaraty Palace are a couple other destinations that must be seen. Brasilia has fairly good transportation. The airport is about seven miles (11.27 Km) from the center of the city, and taxi and bus services are always waiting for arriving passengers. Rio has two airports that serve commercial flights too and from the city, and buses are the main form of transportation in the city. Brazil has a very accessible layout within its cities for the most part.

Brazil is a splendid place to visit, whether you want to see modern skyscrapers, or the plant and animal life in the Amazon River Basin. Its history and culture are as interesting as ever. Brazilian tradition is very welcoming and comforting to those who are not from the area. If you visit Brazil, you won’t be disappointed.