Travel to Liverpool

Situated on a broad curve on the Mersey river, prone to fogs, battering seas and long rains, Liverpool is a seafarer's dream. Liverpool was and still is one of the world's great ports, and was second only to London as the greatest city in an enormous empire that stretched across the world. A cosmopolitan and diverse city, Liverpool was the departing port where millions of immigrants left for the Americas. If you live in North America, your ancestors more than likely left from the famous Mersey docks.

Right now is an exciting time for Liverpool as it is recovering from a depressing slump and it is revitalizing its streets. The city is bracing for an exciting future and taking its rightful place as one of Europe's premier cities. Liverpool is a city alive with music, sport, good humour and vitality. It is a progressive city which is proud of its past. One can experience the maritime heritage of this major seaport, enjoy the Victorian, Georgian and Neoclassical architecture, visit one of the many museums and galleries, or walk in some of the 3000 acres of Liverpool parkland. Liverpool is a city famous for its football, music scene and nightlife, and for the countless well-known personalities that originated here. Liverpool is one of the liveliest and most exciting places in the British Isles.

There is no denying that Liverpool is a large commercial city but it also has many large parks and impressive public buildings which reflect the city's rich heritage.

Because of Liverpool's position on the Mersey estuary, the sea and shipping have been an integral part of city life for several centuries. The city is currently undergoing a major transformation, as a result of the injection of hundreds of millions of pounds of funding from Government and European (Objective One) sources. A recent example of a successful redevelopment is the Victorian Albert Dock which has now become a major tourist attraction, of chic cafes, restaurants and designer shops, which attracts more than 5 million visitors to Liverpool each year.

Impressive stuff, no doubt, but it’s the culture on offer that really has us buzzing. The city’s store of superb museums and top-class art galleries – all free – have put paid to the scurrilous rumour that Liverpool peaked with the Beatles: in 2004 the whole of the waterfront and docks was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site because there are more listed buildings here than in any other city in England except London. And then, of course, the nightlife: as rich and varied as you’d expect from a good northern city.

Source and more info: http://www.world66.com; http://www.wikitravel.org; lonelyplanet.com

Travel to Fiji

Fiji is one of these paradise islands in the Pacific. But the island has more to offer than just beaches where you can bum, and water where you can snorkel.

There are many scenic and historic attractions in Fiji. The capital, Suva, has many old shops and markets with various foods, artefacts, handicrafts and especially seafood. Places of historic interest include the National Museum, situated in the lush surrounds of Thurston Gardens next to Government House and the old Parliament Buildings. Other sites of interest on Fiji include the Cultural Centre at Orchid Island, just outside of Suva, the mysterious earthworks at Taveuni and the old colonial houses (situated around Fiji).

Very typical for Fiji are three things : The first is the word “Bula”! This will probably be your first word when arriving in Fiji. Meaning “welcome” but also “be at ease”, it will most definitely make you feel both. Secondly it is common refrain repeated by all who travelled to Fiji, is that the islands of Fiji are not only among the most pristine in the world, but also inhabited by the friendliest people. And last but not least the world renowned Island Resorts, resorts on private islands, many of them within easy reach from the international airports of Nadi and Suva.

The ethnic variety of Fiji society can be seen mainly in the towns. There are powerfully built Fijians dressed in wrap-around sulus, numerous Indians, men in Western clothes, women wearing colourful saris and a scattering of European, Chinese and other Pacific Islanders. One tradition of both the Indians and Fijians is the practice of fire-walking. Fijian fire-walking has its origin in legend, while Indian fire-walking is done for religious reasons; although tourists can pay to see these ceremonies, the ritual remains a religious penance and not merely a tourist attraction. Cruises on large schooners or yachts to the different islands can be arranged, and tours around the main islands in comfortable coaches are also available.

For the hardier, hiking in the mountains with dramatic views of the islands is another option.

If you are interested to view the Map of Fiji, please do not hesitate to check out the Fiji Mapserver Website on http://map.mrd.gov.fj. Fiji is a very nice place to go and visit although it has many island i suggest that you try a cruise to visit all the islands.

Source and more info: http://www.world66.com; http://www.wikitravel.org

Travel to Hong Kong

Hong Kong (Heung Gong in Cantonese, Xianggang in Mandarin, meaning "fragrant harbour") has the big city specials like smog, odour, 14 million elbows and an insane love of clatter and the city. But it's also efficient, hushed and peaceful: the transport network is excellent, the shopping centres are sublime which sell donkey outfits, the cuisine is legendary, and the temples and quiet corners of parks are contemplative oases.

The best thing about being in Hong Kong is getting flummoxed and fired by the confluences and contradictions of a Chinese city with Chinese and Western elements. It's about savouring new tastes, weaving through human gridlock and humming some dumb Cantopop tune while slurping your noodles.

From the vantage point of Victoria Peak, overlooking the world's busiest deepwater port, you can see a city geared not only to making money but feeling good about it. At night, it's like looking down into a volcano. The view is breathtaking.

Despite its British colonial past, Hong Kong has always stuck to its roots, and the culture beneath the glitz is pure Chinese. That didn't stop locals from feeling apprehensive about being reunited with the motherland when the British handed the colony to the People's Republic of China in early 1997, but their unease has largely evaporated.

Hong Kong is divided into four main areas - Kowloon, Hong Kong Island, the New Territories and the Outlying Islands. Kowloon and the New Territories are on a peninsula of the Chinese mainland, on the northern side of Victoria Harbour; Hong Kong Island is on the southern side of the harbour facing Kowloon.

The city itself is centred around Victoria Harbour. The main business district is Central, on Hong Kong Island. East of Central lies the Admiralty commercial district; Wan Chai, known for restaurants and clubs; then Causeway Bay, a major shopping area. Towering above it all is the Peak, Hong Kong's premier scenic outlook and residential district, which happily has plenty of public green space. In Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui (on the southern tip), Jordan and Yau Ma Tei are busy hotel and shopping areas, while Mong Kok is a bustling residential and shopping area.

Hong Kong Island, the busy financial and commercial centre with its high skyscrapers, has a lot to offer: shops, bars, headquarters from companies and, for those who feel like it, a handful of culture namely a few museums and some sights. Make sure you go to Victoria Peak where you can have astonishing views of the surroundings. One of the nicest beaches, despite its shark warnings, is definitely Repulse Bay. A tram ride is a must. For those who want to see a bit more of the Hong Kong Island, it might be a good idea to visit Aberdeen.

Kowloon is the southern tip of the peninsula and faces Hong Kong island. This paradise of shops, bars and hotels is not only popular with tourists but also with inhabitants of Hong Kong island who can easily take the ferry to this melting-pot of everything relating to spending your money. Besides the important shopping areas, such as the shops and street markets around Nathan Road (sometimes also known as the ‘Golden Mile’) and Mong Kok, there is an abundance of bars and cafés. However, there is even more in Kowloon. Although they are not dipped in neon-lights, there are a few nice temples you can visit, such as the famous Wong Tai temple, and a couple of quite interesting museums.

The Northern part is known as the New Territories. Although many travellers just rush through NT to arrive at the border, it might be an idea to explore this area with its dualistic character. You will see small ancient rural villages alternated with modern towns.

The Outlying Islands simply refers to any of the other 235 islands, including the popular destination of Lantau Island, where you can find the giant Buddha, Hong Kong Disneyland, Hong Kong International Airport, and Tai O - a characteristic fishing village built on stilts. Other smaller islands worth visiting are Lamma and Cheung Chau, both village islands and completely different from Hong Kong Island.

Source and more info: http://www.world66.com; http://www.wikitravel.org

Travel Guide Paris

Paris is known as The City of Lights and it absolutely deserves this name. But Paris is much more than just the City of Lights. Paris is one of the best travel destinations in the world as it offers everything a traveler could possibly hope for.

Unlike most major cities traveling in and out of Paris by plane is relatively simple due to the accessibility of Charles de Gaulle International Airport

A stay in Paris should always include at least three of the most popular Paris activities for visitors including: a visit to the Louvre -- one of the most impressive and well known museums in the world, a climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower, and a climb to the top of Notre Dame Cathedral. If you have time, you should also climb the steps to the Sacré Coeur in Montmartre, stroll around the Place du Tertre, and visit the saucy Pigalle district. Take a walk around the Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter) -- St. Germain, Boulevard, St. Michel -- and bask in the creative energy of the street performers outside the Centre Pompidou.

In the neighborhoods of Paris you can visit Fontainebleau and Versailles, with its magnificent palace of Louis XIV, as well as Vaux-le-Vicomte and the inspiration for Versailles. All of these Paris activities make perfect day trips just about any day of the week.

Another wonderful sight that shouldn't missed on your visit to Paris is the world famous Musee Picasso (Picasso Museum). At Paris' Picasso Museum, you can browse through the famous artist's masterpieces housed in one of the most significant private residences in the Marais' the Hotel Sale. The Picasso Museum features a spectacular collection of Picasso's works including drawings, sculptures, paintings, ceramics, and engravings, as well as the artist's private collection highlighting paintings by Cezanne, Braque, and more.

Paris is full of surprises; the city even offers an interesting breakfast place called "Breakfast in America". Located at 17 rue des Ecoles, 5th arr., this Paris restaurant is a great place to fuel up before a long day of exploration and energetic Paris activities (www.breakfast-in-america.com). Just give it a try; you'll be amazed at Paris's take on American cuisine! For an authentic Paris breakfast, try any Boulangerie Patisserie for excellent Paris pastries and coffee.

Be your own Paris travel guide -- take a walk and discover some of Paris' treasures for yourself!

Things to Do in Paris

Notre Dame Cathedral - A climb to the top of Notre Dame Cathedral also offers nice views of Paris, and if you have time, you should also climb the steps to the Sacré Coeur in Montmartre. www.notredamedeparis.fr

Champs-Elysees- The avenue runs for two kilometres (1.25 miles) through the 8th arrondissement in northwestern Paris, from the Place de la Concorde in the east, with its obelisk, to the Place Charles de Gaulle (formerly the Place de l'Étoile) in the west, location of the Arc de Triomphe. The Champs-Élysées forms part of the Axe historique.

One of the principal tourist destinations in Paris, the lower part of the Champs-Élysées is bordered by greenery (Marigny Square) and by buildings such as the Théâtre Marigny and the Grand Palais (containing the Palais de la Découverte). The Elysée Palace is a little bit to the north, but not on the avenue itself. Further to the west, the avenue is lined with cinemas, cafés and restaurants (most notably Fouquet's), and luxury specialty shops. Aux champs Elysees run under the famous l'Arc de Triomphe the famous arch napolean built to honor his war victories. www.champselysees.org

Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter) -- The Latin Quarter lies in the 5th Arrondissement around St. Germain, Boulevard St. Michel. Here, visitors can bask in the creative energy of the street performers outside the Centre Pompidou.

Source and more info: http://www.world66.com; http://www.wikitravel.org

Travel to Ibiza

Ibiza, an island which is one in a thousand! It is undoubtedly popular within the international club life scene. Every one who loves nightlife clubbing should have been at least once on this magical island.

In the sixties, the island dissociated itself from the rest of the European resorts with the arrival of Baghwan Shree Rejneesh. This religious cult hero was the leader of a rather strange sect and his hippytrain followed in his wake to Ibiza. The party community was born.

From all over the world, top DJ's are attracted to play records at this party island. Real die-hards, however, think that Ibiza has become too much commercialised. The island, with its 84,000 inhabitants, attracts over a million visitors every year. Despite this, Ibiza remains a draw. During the whole summer, the island is the scene of non-stop parties, which can be said of only a few other places in the world.

Ibiza Town is the place to head for - it has everything the island is famous for; the other towns are nothing compared to the capital of the islands. San Antonio Abad has lots of ugly hotels and appartment complexes, Santa Eulalia is nice daytrip but not much more

Source and more info: http://www.world66.com; http://www.wikitravel.org

Travel to Miami

Welcome to Miami -- the sunny southern city in the sunny state of Florida. To most people who have never taken a Miami trip, just think of Sonny Crocket and Ricardo Tubbs in a speedboat chasing some drug dealers. Be your own judge and take a Miami vacation to find out what this city really is like: a melting pot of cultures, a warm and friendly city on one of the most beautiful spots in the world, a city of great architecture and the perfect starting point for exploring the rich variety of sights and sounds in Florida.

But most people think Miami is only a city of fun and games based just on tourism. Miami is a lot of fun, but it is also a huge financial center of the world. Downtown Miami has the largest concentration of International Banks in the United States. Miami was named a Gamma world city based on its economic importance especially towards Latin America. U.S. Southern Command Headquarters are in Miami, also the National Hurricane Center calls Miami home. Miami also how the highest percentage of foreign- born residents in the world! 59% of Miami residents were born outside the US. This makes Miami one of the most diverse cities in the world.

Miami is also known as the capital of Latin America and the Caribbean for economic, transportation, and cultural reasons.

When you are in Miami, one thing is sure, you will not be bored! There are too many Miami activities to enjoy such as going to museums, hanging out at one of many Miami restaurants, cafes, or bars, and dancing until dawn at a hot nightclub.

Now, if you haven't taken a Miami trip for Memorial Weekend, you are missing out. Imagine BCR weekend in Daytona with class and about 100,000 more people. There are three main streets where all the action can be found: Ocean, Collins, and Washington. All three streets are within walking distance from one another. A great place to find excellent Miami hotels is along the ocean -- and it's well worth the money. You're always within walking distance to the beach, of course and a Starbucks is always nearby. Hey, did you know you could stay in Versace's house for about $1,200.00 per night?

The beach is beautiful, the water is very warm and the view to the bottom of the ocean is crystal clear. You can rent an umbrella and 2 lounges for about $24 for the entire day. It's not as hot as you think it would be on the beach, however. It's actually hotter on the strip than on the beach. Collins offers plenty of shopping and lots of expensive boutiques. The Miami restaurants in the area are pretty amazing as well and reasonably priced. Ocean drive restaurants may be a bit more expensive, but the excellent cuisine and service is well worth the price tag.

The Art Deco architecture in the old section of Miami Beach alongside the beach is impressive and worth a leisurely stroll to view its beauty.

Top Five Miami Attractions

Biltmore Hotel – Located in the Coral Gables area of Miami, the Biltmore Hotel is sits on 150 acres of pristine land. The hotel features a magnificent 18-hole Donald Ross-designed golf course, 10 tennis courts, a pool, a wide variety of restaurants, and a world-class fitness center. The Biltmore is much more than just a hotel, it is one of Miami’s star attractions. If you plan stay at Miami’s Biltmore Hotel the hotel features 275 guest rooms and suites including the famous Poolside Cabana Suites. 1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables FL, 33134, Ph: 800-915-1929, www.biltmorehotel.com.

The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens - Agricultural industrialist James Deering built the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in 1916. The site features 10 acres of formal gardens, a main house, and an historic village. This National Historic Landmark is open to the public 364 days a year. 3251 South Miami Avenue, Miami FL, 33129, Ph: 305-250-9133, www.vizcayamuseum.org.

Coral Castle – Some people call it The Eighth Wonder of the World and others call it a mystery. But one thing is true about Coral Castle – it is the most amazing sight you will see during your Miami vacation. One man -- Edward Leedskalnin, a five-foot tall 100-pound man, built Coral Castle from 1920-1951. The amazing part is the stones that were used to build the castle weighed several tons each. The question still remains, how did Edward Leedskalnin build the castle alone? 28655 S. Dixie Highway, Homestead FL, Ph: 305-248-6345. Open daily from 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.

Bass Museum of Art – The Bass Museum of Art is located in the center of Miami’s historic district and it has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1978. The museum features works by Pablo Picasso, Juan Gris, and Julio Gonzalez as well as works by pop artists such as Andy Warhol and Richard Linder. The exhibition schedule changes every several months or so, so please check the website before your visit. 2121 Park Avenue, Ph: 305-673-7530, www.bassmuseum.org. Admission $8.

Elian Gonzalez’s House – Who could forget that heartbreaking scene that took place in the home of Elian Gonzalez’s relatives on April 22, 2000. Federal police, were forced to remove Elian by force in order to return the child to his father in Cuba. The home, now a shrine, can be photographed on Sundays from 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. 2319 N.W. 2nd Street at N.W. 23rd Avenue, Little Havana. Cost: Free.

Source and more info: http://www.world66.com; http://www.wikitravel.org

Travel To Rome

The name inverts neatly to form amor[e]. No wonder that a natural occurrence is to fall in love with Rome -- her magnificence will leave you breathless. Rome is the fabled Eternal City and Rome activities and sights create fascination in the mind of the traveler. Rome -- romantic, resplendent Rome, can reward as no other city can. Do not expect her playful, exuberant fountains to cease from casting their liquid diamonds into the sky, even during the quiet hours of the night, for there is no stopping the flow of her hundreds of miles of aqueducts, which will also be serving your grand Rome hotel room. Yet, as no other city has been the focal point of the world for such a long period of time, as any text book or Rome travel guide will explain, few have such a long and turbulent history as has Roma. Lavished with architectural jewelry from republican to imperial to early-Christian to medieval to renaissance to modern times by history's greatest artists, the queen of cities has also experienced sieges and raids that left their scars.

But each time the Eternal City recovered from her injuries in glorious form.

Roma’s history is tightly connected to the history of Europe as a whole. Not just the Roman emperors but also medieval emperors and kings, such as Charlemagne and Otto I, regarded Rome as the true seat of power; only here could their authority, through benediction by the popes, be sanctified.

"Non basta una vita," it is said: One does not have to be one of the countless academics residing in her many foreign institutes to declare that one life is not enough to get to know Roma. You could easily spend nine, like the stray cats that populate the city, and still find more to discover. At each corner of each street there is a multitude of stories to tell, with layer upon layer of history beneath the feet. A modern school occupies a renaissance palace built on the foundations of an imperial bath complex whose mosaics and aqueduct conduits can still be seen, and a baroque church incorporating the structure of a medieval basilica stands on the foundations of a republican temple. These are only two of the myriad stories in Roma, which together hardly even begin to reveal the history of this 3000-year-old city.

Be certain not to miss The Eternal City's Trevi Fountain (remember Anita Ekberg in the classic scene in La Dolce Vita), the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, Piazza del Popolo, as well as some of the Roman heritage sights, such as the Pantheon, the Colosseum and the Forum Romanum. Be sure to visit a few of her world-famous churches, such as Il Gesu, S. Giovanni in Laterano and Sta. Maria Maggiore; and the Vatican, which features the incredibly huge St. Peter's Basilica and the unrivaled Vatican Museums. In addition, sunrise on the Gianicolo and sunset on the Pincio, with vistas of a sea of golden domes and bell-towers, are sure to record unforgettable images on the mind.

Not far from Roma you can find the wonderful Ancient Ostia, the ancient port of Rome, where you can enjoy a great day walking among bath complexes, squares, temples, and lots of well-preserved stores, like the Tabernae, an ancient take-away Rome restaurant/pub.

Source and more info: http://www.world66.com; http://www.wikitravel.org