Havana is an unlikely accident of geography and history
By Mark TuttonFor CNN
(CNN) -- The seductive port of Havana is an unlikely accident of geography and history, a rum-tinged cocktail of Caribbean exotica, colonial Spanish elegance and Cold War-era politics.
Havana -- a heady cocktail of Caribbean exotica and colonial Spanish elegance.
Through its years of post-revolution isolation it has evolved differently from the rest of the world, so that Havana feels like it belongs to some parallel universe.
In a homogenized world of 'McCities' subject to the same trans-national fads and fashions, Havana is defiantly unglobalized and proud to play by its own rules.
Parts of the Cuban capital are breathtakingly beautiful. Extensive restoration work means the fading grandeur of Old Havana has been saved from vanishing entirely and the bustling streets still conjure up the city's colonial past. But beyond the made-over historic plazas, there is a desperate need for modernization.
The phrase "modern Havana" is an oxymoron, aspects of the city seemingly cryogenically frozen in 1959, the year of the revolution.
For visitors, that means a voyeuristic glimpse into a time capsule world, but for many Habaneros the city is not just stuck in the past, but stuck in a rut.
The same old Buicks and Chevys from the 1950s belch fumes under billboards bearing revolutionary slogans from the same era.
Politics seeps into every aspect of life in Havana. Fidel Castro may have handed power to his brother but his shadow looms large over the city. There has been much talk of reform since Fidel's resignation, but change has been slow to come.
The frustrations of many Habaneros are symbolized by the country's dual currency system. Tourists get to spend convertible pesos in the city's best stores, while locals are paid in regular pesos, which they can only spend in shops that often lack even the basic goods to which their ration cards entitle them.
But although most Habaneros seem resigned to living in a system they are powerless to change, their fatalism is tempered by an irrepressible vitality.
Any street party provides plenty of evidence of that, as do the sounds of son, salsa and reggaeton that fill the Havana night.
Wander through central Havana to the Malecon, the sea-front promenade teeming with hustlers and crowds of Habaneros, and you'll see beyond the time-warp cliches into the real Havana. Look out at the ocean at sunset and you might get the feeling that Havana is somehow cut off from the rest of the world, and is all the better for it.
But for how long? The word is that the new U.S. administration may soon relax its travel restrictions. It may even end the 47- year-old trade embargo -- and Fidel won't live forever. What will that mean for ordinary Habaneros? New political and economic freedoms? More tourist dollars flowing into the city? Or the first steps toward 'McCuba?'
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Friday, March 6, 2009
Thursday, March 5, 2009
JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa Voted
JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa Voted
"BEST HOTEL SPA IN ASIA"
Plus Second Placing in World's Top 25 Category At Condé Nast Traveller Magazine's Awards in London JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa received Condé Nast Traveller Magazine’s Inaugural Readers’ Spa Award for the “Best Hotel Spa in Asia” at a ceremony held in London last week. In addition, the resort’s Mandara Spa was awarded second place in “The World’s Top 25” category. Readers were asked to nominate their favorite spas in various categories including Urban Day Spas, Hotel Spas, Spa Retreats and Medical/Thermal Spas.
The spa facilities at JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa are operated by Mandara Spa Asia; the largest operator of resort garden spas in the region.
Each category was rated according to a number of criteria, including service (for which Asia scored highest), accommodation, amenities, body treatments, décor and ambience. The results were tabulated to reveal the winners in each category, with the highest scorers ranked as the world’s top 25.
Eighty percent of the resort’s guests use the Spa with a high percentage of guests returning for multiple treatments during their stay.
more : http://www.tatnews.org/tourism_news/2107.asp
"BEST HOTEL SPA IN ASIA"
Plus Second Placing in World's Top 25 Category At Condé Nast Traveller Magazine's Awards in London JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa received Condé Nast Traveller Magazine’s Inaugural Readers’ Spa Award for the “Best Hotel Spa in Asia” at a ceremony held in London last week. In addition, the resort’s Mandara Spa was awarded second place in “The World’s Top 25” category. Readers were asked to nominate their favorite spas in various categories including Urban Day Spas, Hotel Spas, Spa Retreats and Medical/Thermal Spas.
The spa facilities at JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa are operated by Mandara Spa Asia; the largest operator of resort garden spas in the region.
Each category was rated according to a number of criteria, including service (for which Asia scored highest), accommodation, amenities, body treatments, décor and ambience. The results were tabulated to reveal the winners in each category, with the highest scorers ranked as the world’s top 25.
Eighty percent of the resort’s guests use the Spa with a high percentage of guests returning for multiple treatments during their stay.
more : http://www.tatnews.org/tourism_news/2107.asp
Holkham voted best beach
Holkham voted Britain's best beach
17 February 2009 08:53
The wild and windswept sands of Holkham have been crowned the UK's favourite beach by readers of a national magazine.
The north Norfolk beauty spot, adored by holidaymakers, nature-lovers and film producers, has scooped the Coast Magazine award for Best Beach 2009.
Readers voted for Holkham's seemingly endless miles of dunes, its colourful beach huts and its maze of creeks and pine woods as it topped the category ahead of last year's winner, Bournemouth.
The cinematic seascape was immortalised as a Hollywood movie setting with Gwyneth Paltrow's memorable final scene from Shakespeare in Love in 1998.
It is also part of a National Nature Reserve, managed by landowners Holkham Estate in conjunction with Natural England, which sees huge flocks of pink-footed geese arriving every winter.
Holkham Estate's land agent, Richard Gledson, said: “To start with, it is a fantastic beach - no argument about it. It is a stunning piece of countryside.
“There is something for everyone, whether you want the solitude of walking in a gale on a winter's day or sitting in the sunshine in August with your family, digging holes in the sand. It is important for many respects, nature conservation being just one of them.”
The award could add to the growing number of visitors to the unspoiled beach, which Mr Gledson said was becoming increasingly well known across the country.
He said: “The only concern would be for the nature conservation and the disturbance to wildlife.
“We have seen a drop-off in the number of birds like terns and plovers nesting on the beach, which is a shame. There is a balance between uses which is difficult to maintain.
“The estate is very proud of its beach and committed to maintaining it is far as we are able to provide access for the wide number of user groups who come here to enjoy it.”
The Coast Magazine Awards, launched last year, honoured other East Anglian attractions with runners-up places - The White Horse at Brancaster Staithe in the Best Shoreline Hotel category and Southwold Pier for Best Seaside Attraction. The runners-up in the Best Beach category were Bamburgh in Northumberland and Brighton in East Sussex.
Coast editor Clare Gogerty said: “Holkham won by quite a considerable margin. It is such a vast and beautiful place. The quality of the sand is great for sandcastles and you have the dunes as well so it is really attractive for families.
“There has been a lot of interest in Norfolk. With the big sky and limitless horizons you can stretch out and feel more free up there.”
The wild and windswept sands of Holkham have been crowned the UK's favourite beach by readers of a national magazine.The north Norfolk beauty spot, adored by holidaymakers, nature-lovers and film producers, has scooped the Coast Magazine award for Best Beach 2009.
Readers voted for Holkham's seemingly endless miles of dunes, its colourful beach huts and its maze of creeks and pine woods as it topped the category ahead of last year's winner, Bournemouth.
The cinematic seascape was immortalised as a Hollywood movie setting with Gwyneth Paltrow's memorable final scene from Shakespeare in Love in 1998.
It is also part of a National Nature Reserve, managed by landowners Holkham Estate in conjunction with Natural England, which sees huge flocks of pink-footed geese arriving every winter.
Holkham Estate's land agent, Richard Gledson, said: “To start with, it is a fantastic beach - no argument about it. It is a stunning piece of countryside.
“There is something for everyone, whether you want the solitude of walking in a gale on a winter's day or sitting in the sunshine in August with your family, digging holes in the sand. It is important for many respects, nature conservation being just one of them.”
The award could add to the growing number of visitors to the unspoiled beach, which Mr Gledson said was becoming increasingly well known across the country.
He said: “The only concern would be for the nature conservation and the disturbance to wildlife.
“We have seen a drop-off in the number of birds like terns and plovers nesting on the beach, which is a shame. There is a balance between uses which is difficult to maintain.
“The estate is very proud of its beach and committed to maintaining it is far as we are able to provide access for the wide number of user groups who come here to enjoy it.”
The Coast Magazine Awards, launched last year, honoured other East Anglian attractions with runners-up places - The White Horse at Brancaster Staithe in the Best Shoreline Hotel category and Southwold Pier for Best Seaside Attraction. The runners-up in the Best Beach category were Bamburgh in Northumberland and Brighton in East Sussex.
Coast editor Clare Gogerty said: “Holkham won by quite a considerable margin. It is such a vast and beautiful place. The quality of the sand is great for sandcastles and you have the dunes as well so it is really attractive for families.
“There has been a lot of interest in Norfolk. With the big sky and limitless horizons you can stretch out and feel more free up there.”
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Historical Places of Interest
Historical Places of Interest
By: Douglas Scott
London is the United Kingdom capital as well as being the United Kingdom largest city. Situated in the South East of Englnd, London is one of the world major financial capitals. London is well known for it economy as well as its history.
There are many different ways to travel around London and the United Kingdom including train, underground, coach and bus.
Historical Places of Interest include Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, The Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, St Pauls Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, 10 Downing Street, Hampton Court.
English country gardens are world renowned, but there are some lovely gardens and parks in the city too which are well worth a visit
London has nearly every type of accommodation on offer, from 5 star luxuries to B and Bs and youth hostels. London is also a big place and because transport links are comprehensive, and frequent, it is not always necessary to stay in the central London area. The Greater London area includes places like Orpington, Ealing, Harrow, all have far cheaper accommodation at only about a 20 minutes trip to the centre of town.
Within the central London area, head for Oxford street, Knightbridge, Tottenham Court Road for some great shopping. Outside central London, but still in easy reach, include Lakeside and Blue water. There are also major shopping areas at places like Bromley, Croydon, Ealing, Harrow, Uxbridge, and many other places, which are all in easy reach of central London.
If you were to make a map of the world based on the restaurants available in London, India would be detailed down to the centimetre. Likewise the rest of the EU and Asia, the Middle East and half a hundred other places besides. On any map made like this, however, there would be massive gaps south of the United States labelled Here Be Monsters and the like. The fact is, England boasts about as many Mexican and Latin American restaurants as active volcanoes.
London is today one of the worlds leading business, financial and cultural centres and its influence in politics, education, entertainment, media, fashion and the arts all contribute to its status as one of the major global cities.
London has a temperate climate with regular but generally light precipitation throughout the year unlike the rest of the UK and even the nearby coast. The warmest month is July. Record high temperatures of up to 38 were recorded in different parts of London on 10 August 2003. The coolest month is January with February on average the driest month. Snow is relatively uncommon, particularly because heat from the urban area can make London hotter than the surrounding areas in winter. However light snowfall is seen on some days most winters.
Keyword Articles: http://www.keywordarticles.org
By: Douglas Scott
London is the United Kingdom capital as well as being the United Kingdom largest city. Situated in the South East of Englnd, London is one of the world major financial capitals. London is well known for it economy as well as its history.
There are many different ways to travel around London and the United Kingdom including train, underground, coach and bus.
Historical Places of Interest include Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, The Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, St Pauls Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, 10 Downing Street, Hampton Court.
English country gardens are world renowned, but there are some lovely gardens and parks in the city too which are well worth a visit
London has nearly every type of accommodation on offer, from 5 star luxuries to B and Bs and youth hostels. London is also a big place and because transport links are comprehensive, and frequent, it is not always necessary to stay in the central London area. The Greater London area includes places like Orpington, Ealing, Harrow, all have far cheaper accommodation at only about a 20 minutes trip to the centre of town.
Within the central London area, head for Oxford street, Knightbridge, Tottenham Court Road for some great shopping. Outside central London, but still in easy reach, include Lakeside and Blue water. There are also major shopping areas at places like Bromley, Croydon, Ealing, Harrow, Uxbridge, and many other places, which are all in easy reach of central London.
If you were to make a map of the world based on the restaurants available in London, India would be detailed down to the centimetre. Likewise the rest of the EU and Asia, the Middle East and half a hundred other places besides. On any map made like this, however, there would be massive gaps south of the United States labelled Here Be Monsters and the like. The fact is, England boasts about as many Mexican and Latin American restaurants as active volcanoes.
London is today one of the worlds leading business, financial and cultural centres and its influence in politics, education, entertainment, media, fashion and the arts all contribute to its status as one of the major global cities.
London has a temperate climate with regular but generally light precipitation throughout the year unlike the rest of the UK and even the nearby coast. The warmest month is July. Record high temperatures of up to 38 were recorded in different parts of London on 10 August 2003. The coolest month is January with February on average the driest month. Snow is relatively uncommon, particularly because heat from the urban area can make London hotter than the surrounding areas in winter. However light snowfall is seen on some days most winters.
Keyword Articles: http://www.keywordarticles.org
Taking A Vacation In Santa Monica
Taking A Vacation In Santa Monica
By: Terry Parker
Santa Monica is a popular vacation destination, and each year, a large number of families make the decision to take a summer vacation. Despite the fact that a large number of individuals do vacation in Santa Monica and nearby areas during the summer months, there are also families who elect not to take a vacation at all. Which type of family are you?
There are a number of reasons why a particular family may be unable to take a family vacation. One of the most common reasons involves the cost. Unfortunately, many individuals mistakenly believe that a vacation in Santa Monica has to be an extravagant adventure. What these people don't realize is that Santa Monica offers something for all price ranges, from the beautiful beach to the famous pier, to the fabulous nightlife and restaurants.
In addition to the cost of a vacation, a large number of families think that they are unable to take a family vacation in Santa Monica due to their busy schedules. Summer vacations are popular because they are often the only time that a family can take a break from their daily activities. If you are able to set aside time, whether it be three days or three weeks, you are encouraged to schedule a summer vacation with your family. Doing so has an unlimited number of benefits.
Perhaps, the greatest benefit of scheduling a summer vacation with your family is the amount of time that you will be able to spend together. In this day in age, many families are rarely able to spend time together. Long work hours, homework, and busy sports schedules often prevent a family from enjoying dinner or other fun activities together. In some cases, a summer vacation is the only way that a family can spend uninterrupted time together.
The relaxation that a summer vacation in Santa Monica will provide your family with is another benefit of scheduling one. Today, children must operate and function differently than they had to in the past. School age children are often bombarded with large amounts of homework, on a daily basis.
This homework, along with active sport schedules and pressure to be the best, can be difficult for children to handle. A summer vacation may provide them with the rest and relaxation that they need and deserve.
In addition to your children receiving relaxation, it is quite possible that you and your spouse could as well. It is true that children have a lot of pressure placed on them, but so do parents.
Scheduling a summer vacation with your family will give you the opportunity to forget about work related issues and home cleaning. These are some of the problems and issues that only a summer vacation could cure.
You and your family should plan out your vacation in Santa Monica, choosing destinations that will be enjoyable for everyone. Creating a summer vacation itinerary as a family will enable everyone to have access to fun filled activities.
In addition to selecting the perfect family vacation, your children may experience a feeling of importance. This feeling of importance if often generated from having an input on a large decision, such as your next summer vacation destination.
As previously mentioned, a large number of activities can be considered a summer vacation, especially in beautiful Santa Monica. If you are interesting in taking a vacation this summer, you and your family should consider this popular and beautiful vacation destination.
Why would you want to continue to spend your summers around the house, especially when everyone could be enjoying themselves away from home?
Keyword Articles: http://www.keywordarticles.org
By: Terry Parker
Santa Monica is a popular vacation destination, and each year, a large number of families make the decision to take a summer vacation. Despite the fact that a large number of individuals do vacation in Santa Monica and nearby areas during the summer months, there are also families who elect not to take a vacation at all. Which type of family are you?
There are a number of reasons why a particular family may be unable to take a family vacation. One of the most common reasons involves the cost. Unfortunately, many individuals mistakenly believe that a vacation in Santa Monica has to be an extravagant adventure. What these people don't realize is that Santa Monica offers something for all price ranges, from the beautiful beach to the famous pier, to the fabulous nightlife and restaurants.
In addition to the cost of a vacation, a large number of families think that they are unable to take a family vacation in Santa Monica due to their busy schedules. Summer vacations are popular because they are often the only time that a family can take a break from their daily activities. If you are able to set aside time, whether it be three days or three weeks, you are encouraged to schedule a summer vacation with your family. Doing so has an unlimited number of benefits.
Perhaps, the greatest benefit of scheduling a summer vacation with your family is the amount of time that you will be able to spend together. In this day in age, many families are rarely able to spend time together. Long work hours, homework, and busy sports schedules often prevent a family from enjoying dinner or other fun activities together. In some cases, a summer vacation is the only way that a family can spend uninterrupted time together.
The relaxation that a summer vacation in Santa Monica will provide your family with is another benefit of scheduling one. Today, children must operate and function differently than they had to in the past. School age children are often bombarded with large amounts of homework, on a daily basis.
This homework, along with active sport schedules and pressure to be the best, can be difficult for children to handle. A summer vacation may provide them with the rest and relaxation that they need and deserve.
In addition to your children receiving relaxation, it is quite possible that you and your spouse could as well. It is true that children have a lot of pressure placed on them, but so do parents.
Scheduling a summer vacation with your family will give you the opportunity to forget about work related issues and home cleaning. These are some of the problems and issues that only a summer vacation could cure.
You and your family should plan out your vacation in Santa Monica, choosing destinations that will be enjoyable for everyone. Creating a summer vacation itinerary as a family will enable everyone to have access to fun filled activities.
In addition to selecting the perfect family vacation, your children may experience a feeling of importance. This feeling of importance if often generated from having an input on a large decision, such as your next summer vacation destination.
As previously mentioned, a large number of activities can be considered a summer vacation, especially in beautiful Santa Monica. If you are interesting in taking a vacation this summer, you and your family should consider this popular and beautiful vacation destination.
Why would you want to continue to spend your summers around the house, especially when everyone could be enjoying themselves away from home?
Keyword Articles: http://www.keywordarticles.org
Glorious Golden Beaches in Tunis
Glorious Golden Beaches in Tunis
By: Douglas Scott
A delightful exotic Tunisian, a little French panache and a treasure trove of history makes this a wonderful area to visit. Luxurious hotels set amidst sub tropical gardens running down to the turquoise sea rival any in the world for cuisine and style.
Whilst in Tunis you can veritably shop till you drop in the elegant shops on the broad boulevards or hunt for souvenirs. Visit the ruins of Carthage, walk the winding hill to the top of Sidi Bou Said for an incomparable view over the bay below.
Its main attractions are the glorious golden beaches warmed by the languid waters of the Mediterranean Sea, the panache of its French colonial past and sophistication of the capital Tunis.
There is more to this coastline than just beaches and cities. Take a tour to the stunning Blue White Artisan Village of Sidi Bou, with its winding cobbled street passing a myriad of shops selling leather goods, local pottery and of course the ubiquitous stuffed camel. Walk to the top for a marvellous view over the Bay below. Finally sacked after rivalling Rome and later rebuilt, the ruins are worth seeing if only to glimpse the sheer wealth and grandeur of a bygone age.
If time is short the Bardo Museum in Tunis is a must see. The mosaics are truly breathtaking some are tiny, others cover a complete floor, but all are superb in their detail and sheer artistry. No holiday is complete without a visit to the Medina in Tunis.
Craft shops, selling everything from leather jackets to intricate silverware, local brightly painted pottery, carpets and rugs. Above all haggle its the done thing. Stop in a cafe and sip a refreshing cup of Tunisian mint tea, or try some of the local delicacies perhaps gateaux or a bowl of a spicy chick pea soup.
The Great Mosque often called The Olive Tree Mosque is second only in importance to the Holy Sidi Oqba Mosque in Kairouan in Tunisia. Originally built in 732 but reconstructed in 864 by the Aghlabids the architecture is impressive and elegant.
Unfortunately, only the courtyard is open to non Muslims but for the energetic its well worth a climb up the winding stairs to the rooftop terraces of the local cafes to see the full splendour of the Mosque from afar.
Other places of interest to visit include in stark contrast to the Mosque the distinctive Cathedral of St. Vincent de Paul echoing the past French colonial era, for an excellent selection of local crafts then relax in one of the numerous popular cafes close by.
Keyword Articles: http://www.keywordarticles.org
By: Douglas Scott
A delightful exotic Tunisian, a little French panache and a treasure trove of history makes this a wonderful area to visit. Luxurious hotels set amidst sub tropical gardens running down to the turquoise sea rival any in the world for cuisine and style.
Whilst in Tunis you can veritably shop till you drop in the elegant shops on the broad boulevards or hunt for souvenirs. Visit the ruins of Carthage, walk the winding hill to the top of Sidi Bou Said for an incomparable view over the bay below.
Its main attractions are the glorious golden beaches warmed by the languid waters of the Mediterranean Sea, the panache of its French colonial past and sophistication of the capital Tunis.
There is more to this coastline than just beaches and cities. Take a tour to the stunning Blue White Artisan Village of Sidi Bou, with its winding cobbled street passing a myriad of shops selling leather goods, local pottery and of course the ubiquitous stuffed camel. Walk to the top for a marvellous view over the Bay below. Finally sacked after rivalling Rome and later rebuilt, the ruins are worth seeing if only to glimpse the sheer wealth and grandeur of a bygone age.
If time is short the Bardo Museum in Tunis is a must see. The mosaics are truly breathtaking some are tiny, others cover a complete floor, but all are superb in their detail and sheer artistry. No holiday is complete without a visit to the Medina in Tunis.
Craft shops, selling everything from leather jackets to intricate silverware, local brightly painted pottery, carpets and rugs. Above all haggle its the done thing. Stop in a cafe and sip a refreshing cup of Tunisian mint tea, or try some of the local delicacies perhaps gateaux or a bowl of a spicy chick pea soup.
The Great Mosque often called The Olive Tree Mosque is second only in importance to the Holy Sidi Oqba Mosque in Kairouan in Tunisia. Originally built in 732 but reconstructed in 864 by the Aghlabids the architecture is impressive and elegant.
Unfortunately, only the courtyard is open to non Muslims but for the energetic its well worth a climb up the winding stairs to the rooftop terraces of the local cafes to see the full splendour of the Mosque from afar.
Other places of interest to visit include in stark contrast to the Mosque the distinctive Cathedral of St. Vincent de Paul echoing the past French colonial era, for an excellent selection of local crafts then relax in one of the numerous popular cafes close by.
Keyword Articles: http://www.keywordarticles.org
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Historical Places of Interest
Historical Places of Interest
By: Douglas Scott
London is the United Kingdom capital as well as being the United Kingdom largest city. Situated in the South East of Englnd, London is one of the world major financial capitals. London is well known for it economy as well as its history.
There are many different ways to travel around London and the United Kingdom including train, underground, coach and bus.
Historical Places of Interest include Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, The Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, St Pauls Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, 10 Downing Street, Hampton Court.
English country gardens are world renowned, but there are some lovely gardens and parks in the city too which are well worth a visit
London has nearly every type of accommodation on offer, from 5 star luxuries to B and Bs and youth hostels. London is also a big place and because transport links are comprehensive, and frequent, it is not always necessary to stay in the central London area. The Greater London area includes places like Orpington, Ealing, Harrow, all have far cheaper accommodation at only about a 20 minutes trip to the centre of town.
Within the central London area, head for Oxford street, Knightbridge, Tottenham Court Road for some great shopping. Outside central London, but still in easy reach, include Lakeside and Blue water. There are also major shopping areas at places like Bromley, Croydon, Ealing, Harrow, Uxbridge, and many other places, which are all in easy reach of central London.
If you were to make a map of the world based on the restaurants available in London, India would be detailed down to the centimetre. Likewise the rest of the EU and Asia, the Middle East and half a hundred other places besides. On any map made like this, however, there would be massive gaps south of the United States labelled Here Be Monsters and the like. The fact is, England boasts about as many Mexican and Latin American restaurants as active volcanoes.
London is today one of the worlds leading business, financial and cultural centres and its influence in politics, education, entertainment, media, fashion and the arts all contribute to its status as one of the major global cities.
London has a temperate climate with regular but generally light precipitation throughout the year unlike the rest of the UK and even the nearby coast. The warmest month is July. Record high temperatures of up to 38 were recorded in different parts of London on 10 August 2003. The coolest month is January with February on average the driest month. Snow is relatively uncommon, particularly because heat from the urban area can make London hotter than the surrounding areas in winter. However light snowfall is seen on some days most winters.
Keyword Articles: http://www.keywordarticles.org
By: Douglas Scott
London is the United Kingdom capital as well as being the United Kingdom largest city. Situated in the South East of Englnd, London is one of the world major financial capitals. London is well known for it economy as well as its history.
There are many different ways to travel around London and the United Kingdom including train, underground, coach and bus.
Historical Places of Interest include Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, The Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, St Pauls Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, 10 Downing Street, Hampton Court.
English country gardens are world renowned, but there are some lovely gardens and parks in the city too which are well worth a visit
London has nearly every type of accommodation on offer, from 5 star luxuries to B and Bs and youth hostels. London is also a big place and because transport links are comprehensive, and frequent, it is not always necessary to stay in the central London area. The Greater London area includes places like Orpington, Ealing, Harrow, all have far cheaper accommodation at only about a 20 minutes trip to the centre of town.
Within the central London area, head for Oxford street, Knightbridge, Tottenham Court Road for some great shopping. Outside central London, but still in easy reach, include Lakeside and Blue water. There are also major shopping areas at places like Bromley, Croydon, Ealing, Harrow, Uxbridge, and many other places, which are all in easy reach of central London.
If you were to make a map of the world based on the restaurants available in London, India would be detailed down to the centimetre. Likewise the rest of the EU and Asia, the Middle East and half a hundred other places besides. On any map made like this, however, there would be massive gaps south of the United States labelled Here Be Monsters and the like. The fact is, England boasts about as many Mexican and Latin American restaurants as active volcanoes.
London is today one of the worlds leading business, financial and cultural centres and its influence in politics, education, entertainment, media, fashion and the arts all contribute to its status as one of the major global cities.
London has a temperate climate with regular but generally light precipitation throughout the year unlike the rest of the UK and even the nearby coast. The warmest month is July. Record high temperatures of up to 38 were recorded in different parts of London on 10 August 2003. The coolest month is January with February on average the driest month. Snow is relatively uncommon, particularly because heat from the urban area can make London hotter than the surrounding areas in winter. However light snowfall is seen on some days most winters.
Keyword Articles: http://www.keywordarticles.org
Taking A Vacation In Santa Monica
Taking A Vacation In Santa Monica
By: Terry Parker
Santa Monica is a popular vacation destination, and each year, a large number of families make the decision to take a summer vacation. Despite the fact that a large number of individuals do vacation in Santa Monica and nearby areas during the summer months, there are also families who elect not to take a vacation at all. Which type of family are you?
There are a number of reasons why a particular family may be unable to take a family vacation. One of the most common reasons involves the cost. Unfortunately, many individuals mistakenly believe that a vacation in Santa Monica has to be an extravagant adventure. What these people don't realize is that Santa Monica offers something for all price ranges, from the beautiful beach to the famous pier, to the fabulous nightlife and restaurants.
In addition to the cost of a vacation, a large number of families think that they are unable to take a family vacation in Santa Monica due to their busy schedules. Summer vacations are popular because they are often the only time that a family can take a break from their daily activities. If you are able to set aside time, whether it be three days or three weeks, you are encouraged to schedule a summer vacation with your family. Doing so has an unlimited number of benefits.
Perhaps, the greatest benefit of scheduling a summer vacation with your family is the amount of time that you will be able to spend together. In this day in age, many families are rarely able to spend time together. Long work hours, homework, and busy sports schedules often prevent a family from enjoying dinner or other fun activities together. In some cases, a summer vacation is the only way that a family can spend uninterrupted time together.
The relaxation that a summer vacation in Santa Monica will provide your family with is another benefit of scheduling one. Today, children must operate and function differently than they had to in the past. School age children are often bombarded with large amounts of homework, on a daily basis.
This homework, along with active sport schedules and pressure to be the best, can be difficult for children to handle. A summer vacation may provide them with the rest and relaxation that they need and deserve.
In addition to your children receiving relaxation, it is quite possible that you and your spouse could as well. It is true that children have a lot of pressure placed on them, but so do parents.
Scheduling a summer vacation with your family will give you the opportunity to forget about work related issues and home cleaning. These are some of the problems and issues that only a summer vacation could cure.
You and your family should plan out your vacation in Santa Monica, choosing destinations that will be enjoyable for everyone. Creating a summer vacation itinerary as a family will enable everyone to have access to fun filled activities.
In addition to selecting the perfect family vacation, your children may experience a feeling of importance. This feeling of importance if often generated from having an input on a large decision, such as your next summer vacation destination.
As previously mentioned, a large number of activities can be considered a summer vacation, especially in beautiful Santa Monica. If you are interesting in taking a vacation this summer, you and your family should consider this popular and beautiful vacation destination.
Why would you want to continue to spend your summers around the house, especially when everyone could be enjoying themselves away from home?
Keyword Articles: http://www.keywordarticles.org
By: Terry Parker
Santa Monica is a popular vacation destination, and each year, a large number of families make the decision to take a summer vacation. Despite the fact that a large number of individuals do vacation in Santa Monica and nearby areas during the summer months, there are also families who elect not to take a vacation at all. Which type of family are you?
There are a number of reasons why a particular family may be unable to take a family vacation. One of the most common reasons involves the cost. Unfortunately, many individuals mistakenly believe that a vacation in Santa Monica has to be an extravagant adventure. What these people don't realize is that Santa Monica offers something for all price ranges, from the beautiful beach to the famous pier, to the fabulous nightlife and restaurants.
In addition to the cost of a vacation, a large number of families think that they are unable to take a family vacation in Santa Monica due to their busy schedules. Summer vacations are popular because they are often the only time that a family can take a break from their daily activities. If you are able to set aside time, whether it be three days or three weeks, you are encouraged to schedule a summer vacation with your family. Doing so has an unlimited number of benefits.
Perhaps, the greatest benefit of scheduling a summer vacation with your family is the amount of time that you will be able to spend together. In this day in age, many families are rarely able to spend time together. Long work hours, homework, and busy sports schedules often prevent a family from enjoying dinner or other fun activities together. In some cases, a summer vacation is the only way that a family can spend uninterrupted time together.
The relaxation that a summer vacation in Santa Monica will provide your family with is another benefit of scheduling one. Today, children must operate and function differently than they had to in the past. School age children are often bombarded with large amounts of homework, on a daily basis.
This homework, along with active sport schedules and pressure to be the best, can be difficult for children to handle. A summer vacation may provide them with the rest and relaxation that they need and deserve.
In addition to your children receiving relaxation, it is quite possible that you and your spouse could as well. It is true that children have a lot of pressure placed on them, but so do parents.
Scheduling a summer vacation with your family will give you the opportunity to forget about work related issues and home cleaning. These are some of the problems and issues that only a summer vacation could cure.
You and your family should plan out your vacation in Santa Monica, choosing destinations that will be enjoyable for everyone. Creating a summer vacation itinerary as a family will enable everyone to have access to fun filled activities.
In addition to selecting the perfect family vacation, your children may experience a feeling of importance. This feeling of importance if often generated from having an input on a large decision, such as your next summer vacation destination.
As previously mentioned, a large number of activities can be considered a summer vacation, especially in beautiful Santa Monica. If you are interesting in taking a vacation this summer, you and your family should consider this popular and beautiful vacation destination.
Why would you want to continue to spend your summers around the house, especially when everyone could be enjoying themselves away from home?
Keyword Articles: http://www.keywordarticles.org
Glorious Golden Beaches in Tunis
Glorious Golden Beaches in Tunis
By: Douglas Scott
A delightful exotic Tunisian, a little French panache and a treasure trove of history makes this a wonderful area to visit. Luxurious hotels set amidst sub tropical gardens running down to the turquoise sea rival any in the world for cuisine and style.
Whilst in Tunis you can veritably shop till you drop in the elegant shops on the broad boulevards or hunt for souvenirs. Visit the ruins of Carthage, walk the winding hill to the top of Sidi Bou Said for an incomparable view over the bay below.
Its main attractions are the glorious golden beaches warmed by the languid waters of the Mediterranean Sea, the panache of its French colonial past and sophistication of the capital Tunis.
There is more to this coastline than just beaches and cities. Take a tour to the stunning Blue White Artisan Village of Sidi Bou, with its winding cobbled street passing a myriad of shops selling leather goods, local pottery and of course the ubiquitous stuffed camel. Walk to the top for a marvellous view over the Bay below. Finally sacked after rivalling Rome and later rebuilt, the ruins are worth seeing if only to glimpse the sheer wealth and grandeur of a bygone age.
If time is short the Bardo Museum in Tunis is a must see. The mosaics are truly breathtaking some are tiny, others cover a complete floor, but all are superb in their detail and sheer artistry. No holiday is complete without a visit to the Medina in Tunis.
Craft shops, selling everything from leather jackets to intricate silverware, local brightly painted pottery, carpets and rugs. Above all haggle its the done thing. Stop in a cafe and sip a refreshing cup of Tunisian mint tea, or try some of the local delicacies perhaps gateaux or a bowl of a spicy chick pea soup.
The Great Mosque often called The Olive Tree Mosque is second only in importance to the Holy Sidi Oqba Mosque in Kairouan in Tunisia. Originally built in 732 but reconstructed in 864 by the Aghlabids the architecture is impressive and elegant.
Unfortunately, only the courtyard is open to non Muslims but for the energetic its well worth a climb up the winding stairs to the rooftop terraces of the local cafes to see the full splendour of the Mosque from afar.
Other places of interest to visit include in stark contrast to the Mosque the distinctive Cathedral of St. Vincent de Paul echoing the past French colonial era, for an excellent selection of local crafts then relax in one of the numerous popular cafes close by.
Keyword Articles: http://www.keywordarticles.org
By: Douglas Scott
A delightful exotic Tunisian, a little French panache and a treasure trove of history makes this a wonderful area to visit. Luxurious hotels set amidst sub tropical gardens running down to the turquoise sea rival any in the world for cuisine and style.
Whilst in Tunis you can veritably shop till you drop in the elegant shops on the broad boulevards or hunt for souvenirs. Visit the ruins of Carthage, walk the winding hill to the top of Sidi Bou Said for an incomparable view over the bay below.
Its main attractions are the glorious golden beaches warmed by the languid waters of the Mediterranean Sea, the panache of its French colonial past and sophistication of the capital Tunis.
There is more to this coastline than just beaches and cities. Take a tour to the stunning Blue White Artisan Village of Sidi Bou, with its winding cobbled street passing a myriad of shops selling leather goods, local pottery and of course the ubiquitous stuffed camel. Walk to the top for a marvellous view over the Bay below. Finally sacked after rivalling Rome and later rebuilt, the ruins are worth seeing if only to glimpse the sheer wealth and grandeur of a bygone age.
If time is short the Bardo Museum in Tunis is a must see. The mosaics are truly breathtaking some are tiny, others cover a complete floor, but all are superb in their detail and sheer artistry. No holiday is complete without a visit to the Medina in Tunis.
Craft shops, selling everything from leather jackets to intricate silverware, local brightly painted pottery, carpets and rugs. Above all haggle its the done thing. Stop in a cafe and sip a refreshing cup of Tunisian mint tea, or try some of the local delicacies perhaps gateaux or a bowl of a spicy chick pea soup.
The Great Mosque often called The Olive Tree Mosque is second only in importance to the Holy Sidi Oqba Mosque in Kairouan in Tunisia. Originally built in 732 but reconstructed in 864 by the Aghlabids the architecture is impressive and elegant.
Unfortunately, only the courtyard is open to non Muslims but for the energetic its well worth a climb up the winding stairs to the rooftop terraces of the local cafes to see the full splendour of the Mosque from afar.
Other places of interest to visit include in stark contrast to the Mosque the distinctive Cathedral of St. Vincent de Paul echoing the past French colonial era, for an excellent selection of local crafts then relax in one of the numerous popular cafes close by.
Keyword Articles: http://www.keywordarticles.org
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