Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Surfing in Costa Rica

Travel Guide For You

Surfing in Costa Rica By J. Foley

You will find that some of the best surfing that you can end will be off the coast of Costa Rica. There are surfers from all over the world that enjoy surfing, but you will also find that there are plenty of different beaches for you to catch a wave. You will also have tons of excitement and fun when you go to Costa Rica for surfing. You will want to come to Costa Rica if you are looking for a fun and interesting place to surf.

You may be wondering why Costa Rica is perfect for all your surfing needs. Well, they offer a variety of challenges. These waves are not for people River mouths; lefts and rights, beach breaks, and reefs make the surfing in Costa Rica amazing. You can also surf here year round—there is no real winter in Costa Rica. Instead, they simply have a rainy season and a dry season. However, even during the rainy season, you will not be stuck inside. During the rainy season, it rarely rains all day. You will find that the weather is so beautiful that when in the rainy season you will get at least four to five hours of sunshine. On top of it all, the water off the coast of Costa Rica is warm and crystal clear.

The waves of the coast of Costa Rica may be warm, but they are not as high as the monumental legendary waves off the coast of Hawaii. The waves in Costa Rica happen to be very long. Can you stay standing for a wave that is over a kilometer long? Try it out in Costa Rica.

In Costa Rica, you will also be able to surf in seclusion if you wish. Because there are so many beaches on both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, you can simply take your pick. If privacy is what you are looking for, you will want to scope out of part of a the beach that can be more difficult for you to reach, but you will not have to deal with things like other swimmers and surfers. The hike to the beach alone can be a workout!

When it comes to taking your surfboard on board, you will find that most major airlines will allow you to bring it onboard of the plane like luggage, however, some may have size limits and may not even allow you to bring one. You will want to think about how concerned you are about taking the luggage and your surfboard out of your eyesight. You will find that you can buy an inexpensive board at the beach and get plenty of fun in the sun. You can always take your surfboard to town and sell it before you leave. You will find that the waves in this paradise will be the best waves that you will ever find.

Article Written By J. Foley

Monday, April 07, 2008

Sailing in St. Thomas

Travel Guide For You

Sailing in St. Thomas By J. Foley

When selecting a vacation destination, many individuals and families select a destination that offers them excitement and relaxation, all at once. If this is what you are looking for out of your vacation, then a St. Thomas vacation may be just for you.

St. Thomas is located in the Caribbean. As one of the Virgin Islands, St. Thomas is known as one of the “hottest,” vacation destinations in the world. If you have never had the pleasure of vacationing in St. Thomas before, you may be wondering what awaits you there. In St. Thomas, there are an unlimited number of services and activities that you may find exciting. One of those activities is sailing.

The ocean waters surrounding St. Thomas are ideal for sailing. Beginners and even the most experienced sailors can enjoy sailing in the St. Thomas area. Since most individuals vacationing in St. Thomas fly into the area, you will have to find boat rentals. When renting a sail boat, it is likely that you will have a number of different options. Sail boats come in all different shapes, sizes, styles, and designs.

Before planning an independent sail off the coast of St. Thomas, you may need to take a number of important factors into consideration. One of these factors is your level of sailing experience. Many of the individuals and companies that provide boat rentals require that you have the appropriate level of sailing experience. You may be required to take sail boat for a test drive or you may need to show documents that show you are licensed to operate a sail boat. Many individuals and companies do this to protect their investments.

To make arrangement to rent a sail boat, it is advised that you make your reservations ahead of time. Sailing is a popular vacation pastime in St. Thomas. To guarantee that you are able to have access to an available boat, you will want to make your boat rental reservations well in advance. You can easily learn of boat rentals that can be found in or around the St. Thomas area by requesting a St. Thomas vacation packet. Your local travel agent may also be able to offer you assistance.

While sailing is an activity that is enjoyed by many, most individuals are unable to operate a sail boat. Just because you do not know how to operate a sail boat, does not mean that you cannot vacation on the waters surrounding St. Thomas. Throughout the area, you should be able to find multiple companies that offer guided sail boat rentals. In addition to paying for the boat rental, you will be provided with an experienced sailor who can take you on voyage that you will forever remember.

Sailing on the water surrounding St. Thomas is an exciting experience all on its own, but that is not the only thing you can do while on the water. While sailing on the water, you may be surprised with what you will find and see. A sail boat is a great way to vacation on the water, but sightsee as well. Scuba diving and snorkeling are also fun activities that can be combined with sailing. If you are with an experienced sailor who also is a trained scuba diver, you may be able to enjoy these two amazing activities all at once.

When you are searching for sail boat rentals, you may want to consider what the resort you plan on staying at has to offer. If you are vacationing at an all-inclusive St. Thomas resort, you may find that you are able to receive free sail boat tours. These free rides are not offered in all vacation packages, but may be able to save a large amount of money if they are.

Whether you plan on sailing yourself or you are using the services of an experienced sailor, you will be sure to enjoy your time on the water. Activities found on the St. Thomas Island are not limited. You can easily find an number of activities, many of which will be what your heart desires.

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Article Written BY J. Foley

Sunday, March 16, 2008

Great Places To Eat In Cancun

Travel Guide For You

Great Places To Eat In Cancun By J. Foley

There are thousands of places that you can eat when you are in the city of Cancun, but keep in mind that you are going to find a lot of ethnic restaurants. Even if you are there for only a week, you are going to find it hard to find a place to have dinner because you are going to be overwhelmed. When it comes to eating-places you will notice that there are restaurants and then there are bars. After you are able to choose, you will find that there are lots of places for you to explore and then you can go from there.

Restaurants are great for families, couples, and those looking for a relaxing daytime atmosphere. You will want to do your research before you leave so that you have some places to eat in your mind. You can read restaurant reviews online and visit websites to view menus. Most people like to try traditional Mexican cuisine at least once while they are in the country, and a variety of places can serve your Mexican food like fried beans, spicy chicken, and tortilla types of foods.

Keep in mind that sometimes you will want to go with some traditional foods. Mexican wines or tequila drinks at restaurants, although not all serve alcohol. You will always want to ask for bottled water with no ice so that you don’t end up getting sick from the water, but you also want to keep the spices on the DL. You don’t want to eat too much spicy food, or you will get sick and it will ruin your trip.

For those going to Mexico who isn’t into Mexican food, you don’t have to worry because Cancun offers a lot more than just Mexican food. You can eat at American restaurants, such as the Hard Rock Café, but here, prices will be more expensive than what you are used to paying. You will want to look for small cafes so that you can enjoy Mexican food, but also what you are comfortable as well. International food restaurants can also be found in Cancun, so if you are craving Chinese, you won’t have any trouble finding a good Chinese restaurant.

As for the bars, you will find that they are different than restaurants. The bars will serve a lot more alcohol than what the restaurants are willing to give you. While you are in Mexico, it is fun to try traditional tequila drinks and Mexican beers or Mexican wines. Ask the bartender, if he speaks English, for a recommendation.

Before you leave for Cancun, you will want to learn about the money. In Cancun, you will want to make sure that you tip all of them just right and that you tip the right people. You surely do not want to get yourself in trouble by offending someone. You will want to make sure that you understand the currency too. They use Pesos and you will need to know the exchange rate. Also, do not allow the help to persuade your mind. You should ask some of the locals to help you make a choice, but you will want to make sure that it is someone who has the highest character. You will find that there are people who will give you a false outlook on a restaurant and you do not want to be falsely persuaded.

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Article Written By J. Foley

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Travel Tips to Finland

Travel Guide For You

Travel Tips to Finland By J. Foley

About the Country

Finland is a country of islands, lakes, and forests. The modern capital city of Finland is Helsinki and is filled with museums and galleries. In summers, sun never sets here and vice versa in the winters.

Culture

While in Finland, greet the locals by a handshake. The people here are quite reserved and don’t open up easily. Leave shoes outside the house when going over to someone’s house. It is customary to wait till the toast is being raised at the dinner table. Host raises the toast by saying ‘kippis’ or ‘skol’. People dress casually most of the times.

Travel

Finnair is the national airline of Finland. Other airlines that fly to Finland are Air France, Air Canada, Cathay Pacific, American Airline, British Airways, KLM, Swiss airline, Lufthansa, and United airlines. The major airport of Finland is Helsinki airport. It is 19km away from the city and it takes about 25 minutes to get to the city from the airport. Finnair provides buses for the passengers. Taxis and hotel coaches are also available. The facilities provided at the airport are duty free shops, car hire, bank, hotel reservation service, conference room, restaurant, and a multimedia center. Other than Helsinki airport, there are about 22 other airports and Blue 1 is the domestic airline which operates within Finland. Times to time cheap offers are being announced by the airlines. Prior checking of such offers will prove to be of great help.

If deciding to go by the sea, ferry services are provided and the major ports are Naantali, Vaasa and Turku. These ferries connect to Rostock, Kapellskär, Grisslehamn, and Travemünde. Some of the cruises offer small cabins along with the provision of meals if staying aboard overnight.

Trains from St Petersburg and Moscow can also be boarded. All the trains are clean and very comfortable. Car-carrier trains also operate in Finland. Traveling by rail proves to be inexpensive and efficient and also great options for enjoying sight seeing. Avail the unlimited train travel offer of Inter-Rail pass or Eurailpass. There are offers for elderly people and children, check them out.

When traveling by road there are chances of running into an elk or reindeer. In such cases, police should be reported immediately. Blowing horn for small reasons should be avoided. Keep your car to the right. Gas stations accept credit cards. Laws about seat belt and drinking while driving should be strictly followed. Extra precautions must been taken if taking caravan along. National driving license or International Driving Permit and car insurance must be there with you at all times. Coach Service is also available and connects to even the remote places. Taxis can be hired at the airport and railway stations and tipping is considered offensive here. Check out agents in Helsinki who run a rent-a-car business for hiring cars.

Duty Free Items

1. 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco or 100 cigarillos
2. 50g of perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette
3. 2litre of alcoholic beverages of less than 22 per cent by volume or 1litre of alcoholic beverages of more than 22 per cent by volume, 2litre of sparkling wine and 16litre of beer
4. 100g of tea or 40g of tea extract and essence and 500g of coffee or 200g of coffee extract or essence

Tobacco and alcohol can be carried by people over 18 years of age. Agricultural and food items should be avoided. Certain medicines require a doctor’s prescription for verification. Firearms and sharp objects are strictly prohibited.

Article Written By J. Foley

Friday, February 08, 2008

A Great Vacation In Cancun

Travel Guide For You

A Greatl Vacation In Cancun By J. Foley

Cancun is a place that is fun and happening. It happens to be a vacation destination spot for most couples and even families. You will also find it to be the traditional sport for spring-breakers. You will want to make sure that you travel to Cancun sometime near in the future. Also, remember that there is a number of tricks and tips that you will want to take in consideration when it comes to staying in Cancun. It is a great spot for you to relax, but with the following information, you will want to go to a country that can give you everything and more that you can imagined.

While in Cancun, you will need to learn how to travel around the area. Buses are your cheapest bet. When it comes to the buses, you do not want to take the young ones. When on the bus, find a seat quickly, as the driver will not wait for you. He or she probably will not speak English, so use the button at the back of the bus to alert them when you want to stop. In addition, you should know that there are no guarantees that you will stop at a bus stop marked on the route.

Other passengers will also usually not speak English, so if you want to move, you need to push your way through. Taxies are another option. Always keep enough pesos on you for taxies and buses so that you can always be safe. Also, you will want to keep in mind that they don’t always accept American money.

Also, you need to know the exchange rate so that you know exactly what you are paying out. Merchants will try to make the most money possible and will often attempt to sell things for very high prices. Also, don’t forget the importance of bargaining and haggling. This is expected and not at all rude when you are in Mexico. Remember that English is a second language for most people there, so speak clearly and use simple words to be sure that everyone understands.

You will find that some places will take American bills, but when it comes to coins, they do not accept for the most part. Most places accept American bills, but few accept American coins. The exchange rate at a business will be much higher, so it is better to exchange your money at a bank first.

You will find that eating in Cancun is an experience itself. You don’t want to drink the water or anything with ice. Cancun does have a water purification plant, so ask to be sure your hotel is hooked up to this plant and that the water is safe to drink. Otherwise, get bottled water. Also, keep in mind that most restaurants will pay some of the local taxi drives, hotels, and other people to help promote business and that is why you should never take anything to heart.

Most of the time, they will tell you to go somewhere, so that they can get a kickback for your business. Restaurants in Cancun pay taxi drivers, hotel personnel, and just about anyone on the street to promote their restaurants, so understand that workers probably are not giving you advice from the heart, but are rather giving you advice that pays.

Make sure that you are careful when you are walking around the city of Cancun. Pedestrians do not have the right away and there are a lot of drivers who will not stop for you. Most of the time, you are going to have to run across the street, so it is ideal for you to be very careful. Also, do not let your guard down at night, you will want to go out with a group of friends so that you can be save.
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Article Written By J. Foley

Friday, February 01, 2008

Everything You Need to Know About the Albuquerque International Sunport

Travel Guide For You

Everything You Need to Know About the Albuquerque International Sunport By J. Foley

Are you a New Mexico resident? If so, there is a good chance that you have heard of the Albuquerque International Sunport before. Unlike traditional airports, that contain the word airport in their name, this popular New Mexico airport has made their airport name catchy and unique. A catchy name is not all the Albuquerque International Sunport has to offer. In fact, it offers a wide variety of both international and domestic flights, on a daily basis.

Being the largest airport in New Mexico, the Albuquerque International Sunport is not just for residents who live in or around the Albuquerque area. In fact, residents travel from all across the state, just to use the top of the line service offered by this well known airport facility. If you are one of those individuals, you are urged to further examine the Albuquerque International Sunport, especially if you are a first-time visitor. You will find that a small amount of time and research will provide you with all of the information that you need to know.

Perhaps, the first step in examining everything that the Albuquerque International Sunport has to offer is to visit their online website. That website can be found at www.cabq.gov/airport. At that online website, you can learn virtually anything that you want or need to know, including information on incoming or outgoing flights, terminal locations, and airport parking services. To make use out of this valuable information, you are advised to start your research before you are to leave for your next trip. Doing so will help to ensure that you can put the information that you learned to good use.

When visiting the online website of the Albuquerque International Sunport, you will learn that a number of commercial airlines offer flights in and out of this international airport. If you are looking for international flights, you will find that Continental Airlines, Delta Airlines, American Airlines, Mesa Airlines, Northeast Airlines, and Southwest Airlines are the commercial airlines that have numerous international flights, many arriving or leaving on a daily basis.

The online website for the Albuquerque International Sunport is pretty limited on air travel rules and information; however, it does not mean that those rules to do not exist. Depending on where you are flying to and form, you may need to bring your driver’s license, government issued identification card, or your passport with you. On certain international flights, additional proof of identification may be needed. For this reason, it is best that you check with the airport or your airline before leaving for your trip.

Once at the Albuquerque International Sunport, is important that you abide by all airport rules. This includes leaving prohibited items at home or in your vehicle and cooperating with all airport security staff. Since there is always a chance that a problem could occur, intentionally or not, it is advised that you arrive at the Albuquerque International Sunport well in advance. You may want to arrive at least two hours before your flight is scheduled to depart. If you are scheduled to fly out on an international flight, you may even want to give yourself more time.
By keeping the above mentioned information in mind, you should be able to make the most out of your next visit to the Albuquerque International Sunport. As a reminder, for additional information, you should examine the online website of the Albuquerque International Sunport.

Article Written By J. Foley

Monday, January 07, 2008

Alaska Ski Vacations

Travel Guide For You

Alaska Ski Vacations By J. Foley

Alaska, which has always been a source of awe and
mystery, has some of the best skiing in the world,
and the Alyeska Resort is one of the finest resorts
in the state. With a top elevation of 2751 feet and a
2501 vertical drop, the area gets an average of 631
inches of snow annually.

Although this is some of the best skiing in the world,
you won’t find the slopes overly crowded, and there
are no long lift lines. There are nine lifts, including
six chair lifts and two surface lifts, and one cable
car line. There are 68 trails for beginners,
intermediates, and experts, with the majority of the
trails designed for intermediate skiers.

Night time skiing is allowed, which makes your ski
experience more adventurous and thrilling. You will
see snow capped mountains, hanging glaciers, and
of course, the famous Northern Lights. This resort is
ranked number nine of the top twenty-five killer ski
trips by Skiing Magazine.

The season begins at the Alyeska Resort in mid
November, and runs through mid April. This area of
Alaska boasts the longest daytime areas in the
United States, with approximately sixteen hours of
daylight each day during April. During December,
however, there are only about seven hours of daylight
– which makes night time skiing necessary if you
are going to get in the time that you want to spend
on the slopes.

The Alyeska Prince Hotel is the place to stay! Here
you will enjoy elegant rooms and fine dining. Nightly
entertainment is available as well. There are other
nightlife spots in the area as well, that are not
associated with the Hotel.

If tubing interests you, then visiting the Glacier
Tubing Park is an absolute must! Featuring two
lanes of terrain and a surface lift, everyone in the
family will enjoy spending time at the tubing park.
The Alyeska Terrain Park is a must for
snowboarding enthusiasts. Other winter activities
that can be enjoyed in and around the Alyeska
Resort include flight seeing, helisking, ocean
cruising tours, dog sledding, ice climbing, back
country skiing, mountaineering, and polar bear
viewing.

At the Alyeska Resort, the ultimate winter vacation
can be experienced. Brave the elements, then return
to the Hotel for some pampering. Get a taste of what
Alaska is really like, and what skiing is meant to be!
There are activities for the entire family to enjoy, and
there are many area sights and attractions to be
enjoyed as well. This really is an awesome winter
family ski vacation!

Article Written By J. Foley

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Advantages and Disadvantages of All-Inclusive Cruise Ships

Travel Guide For You

Advantages and Disadvantages of All-Inclusive Cruise Ships By J. Foley

Vacationing is a pastime that is enjoyed by many. While vacations are nice, needed, and important, they can become costly. This cost is often associated with additional expenses such as food, beverages, and entertainment. If you are interested in vacationing aboard a cruise ship, but you are worried about the cost, you don’t necessarily have to be.

All-inclusive cruise ships are cruise ships where just about everything is included. The cost of your drinks, food, and entertainment are often taken care of. If you are wondering whether or not you should book reservations aboard a traditional cruise ship or an all-inclusive cruise ship, you are not alone. A large number of travels wonder the same thing.

When it comes in all-inclusive cruise ships, there are a number of advantages and disadvantages. To determine whether you could benefit from an all-inclusive cruise ship, you are encouraged to weight the advantages and disadvantages each. After you have considered each, you are encouraged to make a decision. If the advantages outweigh the disadvantages then an all-inclusive cruise ship may be just what you need and visa versa.

The biggest advantage of all-inclusive cruise ships is that most of your needs are taken care of. As previously mentioned, most all-inclusive cruises cover food, drinks, and entertainment. If you are interested in drinking a large amount of alcohol or feasting on the amazing onboard food, you may be able to do so free of charge. You may also be granted exclusive admittance into movie theatres and video arcades.

To many, having foods, drinks, and entertainment provided free of charge sounds too good to be true. In some cases, it may be. While many of your food and drinks are included in an all-inclusive package, not all are. It is possible that you may be required to pay for your alcoholic beverages. There are some cruise ships where alcohol beverages are included in the package, but on others it is not.

When it comes to food, your food at a sit-down restaurant may be provided free of charge, but your snacks are typically not covered. This often includes snacks or small meals purchased at onboard specialty shops and vending machines. If your snacks and small meals are not covered, you can prevent the extra expenses by eating a large meal. You may also be able to save money by brining your own snacks onboard, if the cruise ship allows it.

As mentioned above, entertainment is often included in an all-inclusive cruise ship package. As with food and drinks, the entertainment is often limited. It is likely that you will gain free admission into a dance or ball, but you will not be able to gamble free of charge. If you are interested in gambling aboard the ship’s casino, you will have to come up with your own funds.

When it comes to the cost of an all-inclusive cruise, there are many travelers who get confused. The cost of an all-inclusive cruise may seem high, but it is often that way to cover the cruise line’s expenses. For many individuals, the cost of an all-inclusive cruise is a great value. To determine whether or not you will save money aboard an all-inclusive cruise, you need to estimate your cost of food, drinks, and entertainment aboard a traditional cruise. Simply by comparing the two, you can easily determine which cruise package offers the better deal.

The advantages and disadvantages of all-inclusive cruise ship vacations are important. By examining each and comparing them to what you want and need out of your cruise, you can easily determine which cruise ship vacation package is right for you.

Article Written By J. Foley

Wednesday, December 05, 2007

Travel tips to Czech Republic

Travel Guide For You

Travel tips to Czech Republic By J. Foley

About the county

Czech Republic is located in Central Europe bordering Poland to the north, Germany to the northwest and west, Austria to the south, and Slovakia to the east. The capital of Czech Republic is Prague which is also the biggest city of Czech Republic and a popular tourist destination. Czech Republic became a member of European Union in May, 2004. Czech Republic was earlier a part of Czechoslovakia which was dissolved in January, 1993 and was split into what is now called Czech and Slovak Republics. Brno, Ostrava, Plzeň, Olomouc, , České Budějovice, Zlín, Hradec Králové, Ústí nad Labem, Pardubice and Karlovy Vary are the other important cities of Czech Republic. Czech Republic is divided into two parts based on geographical and cultural classification. They are Bohemia and Moravia. Bohemian cities and towns are popular for their spas and wine vineyards. It is also home to many castles which are open for visitors. One of the other tourism attractions is the availability of hundreds of miles of marked trails for hiking, cycling and skiing.

Population & Languages

The population of Czech Republic is roughly 10.2 million and the official language being spoken is Czech.

Electricity

The voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. The type of plug used is Round pin plug and receptacle with male grounding pin

Geographic Location

It is located in Central Europe bordering Poland to the north, Germany to the northwest and west, Austria to the south, and Slovakia to the east. It is basically a landlocked country strategically located on some of the most important land routes in Europe.

Climate

The climate of Czech Republic can be termed as Temperate with hot summers and cold overcast winters. It also gets snow. Most of the rain comes down in summer. Due to different altitudes the variation of temperatures is diverse. The temperatures are relatively low at high altitudes and more precipitation. The temperatures average only -0.4°C at high altitude areas whereas the temperatures can average as high as 10°C in low altitude areas.

Local Customs

Dressing should be conservative and casual except at formal dinners or good hotels or restaurants. Tipping is usually 5 to 10 percent in restaurant, hotels and taxis.

Attractions

The Castle District (Hradèany) – It has some of the best churches and museums. It also has some beautiful gardens, fortifications and state apartments also.

St Vitus Cathedral – It is located in the Castle District, the prominent feature of this cathedral is the spires which soar high in the sky. It is also country’s largest church with great architecture.

Charles Bridge (Karluv Most) – This is one of the most popular tourist spots of the city and should not be missed.

Old Town Square (Staromĕstské Námestí) – It is the most vibrant square of Prague with many historical structures. It also hosts various markets every year like yearly Christmas market.

The Jewish Museum – It is the largest Jewish Museum in Central Europe with a vast collection of Judaic art works.
Vyšehrad – Is a great hill fort built on a rock above the river.

Travel

By Air – The national airline of Czech Republic is Czech Airlines. There are many other small and popular international airlines operating from Czech Republic. The major airport is Prague Ruzyne International Airport (PRG). The airport is located approximately 10 miles north west of Prague.

By Rail – The country is part of the extensive network of trains connecting the European cities. If you are coming from Western Europe the most convenient connections are via Berlin, Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna, and Zurich to Prague.

Duty Free Items
1. 800 cigarettes or 400 cigarillos or 200 cigars or 1kg tobacco for EU countries.
2. 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco for Non-EU countries.
3. 10 liter of spirits with alcohol content over 22%, or 20 liter of alcoholic beverages with alcohol volume less than 22%, or 90 liter of wine or 60 liter of sparkling wine, or 110 liter of beer for EU countries.
4. 1 liter spirits or 2 liter wine for Non-EU countries.
5. 50g perfume or 250ml eau de toilette
6. Food, fruits, medications and flowers for personal use
7. Gifts up to €175

Prohibited Items

Un-canned goods, meat or dairy products, Narcotics, firearms, ammunition, weapons, eggs, plants, endangered species, fireworks and alcoholic beverages that contain more than sixty per cent alcohol.

Article Written By J. Foley

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

When Traveling to Spain

Travel Guide For You

When Traveling to Spain By J. Foley

When traveling to Spain, be prepared to indulge in a variety of culture and traditions. With its many regions, each with its different government and ways of doing things, travelers to Spain will sure be treated to a plethora of rich sights, sounds and experiences.

Within Barcelona, one the world’s famous tourist destinations, travelers to Spain will find the openwork spires of the El Templo Expiatorio de la Sagrada Familia or the Church of the Holy Family. The neo-Gothic architectural masterpiece known for its undulating curves and flamboyant design was the personal obsession of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi y Cornet just before he died in a trolley accident. Travelers to Spain’s Barcelona will also find the paved thoroughfare Las Ramblas leading to Plaza de Cataluña fascinating. In the oldest section of the city, travelers to Spain will get to see the Church of San Pablo del Ocampo and the Gothic Cathedral of Santa Eulalia, which is a monument to Christopher Columbus. In Barcelona, the Barri Gotic and the red brick Arc del Triomf can be found. Both were designed by Josep Vilaseca.

Travelers to Spain will love touring Barcelon’s finest educational and art institutions. Among them are the University of Barcelona, the Autonomous University of Barcelona, the Royal Archives of Aragon, the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of Modern Art and the Contemporary Art Museum.

Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a city known for its nightlife. Travelers to Spain will be entertained with its bars and summer terazas. Areas of note are the Chueca and the Circulo de Bellas Artes where travelers to Spain can enjoy relaxing and drinking in its many bars and discotecas. Three of the finest museums in the world can also be found in Madrid. Travel through Spain’s art history as you view the country’s art collection. Museo del Prado is the most famous of the lot. Travelers to Spain will be able to see in the museum Velazquez’s Las Meninas and Goya’s Las Majas.

The Centro de Arte Reina Sofia, on the other hand, houses Pablo Picasso’s Geurnica, a depiction of the Spanish Civil War. Other notable museums that travelers to Spain should visit are the Thyssen-Bornemisza art museum that houses close to 800 paintings; the Lazaro Galdiano Museum; the National Library, which houses every book published in Spain; Museum of Bullfighting; the National Museum of Decorative Arts; and the Cultural Center of Madrid, which contains a theater for zarzuela, Spain’s version of the opera. Of course, no place will compare to the Royal palace itself, where travelers to Spain can walk through the residential rooms of 18th and 20th century royalty.

Another sight that travelers to Spain should not leave without seeing is the Alhambra Palace, which is perhaps the greatest work of the Moorish art in Spain. Consisting of several courtyards and patios, this Palace in Granada is a superb piece of architectural work with its intricate inlaid walls and ceiling designs.

Traveling to Spain will not be complete without visiting Cordoba, a city in the South. Look for the Mezquita, Europe’s grandest and most beautiful mosque. Alcazar is another great tourist destination. Now largely in ruins, this Moorish palace was the venue for the Inquisition.

Spain’s sprawling beaches and resorts also offer the perfect tourist destination. Travelers to Spain will love Costa del Sol and the Costa Brava, a string of coves from Palamos to Begur.

Article Written By J. Foley