If there's one greatest contribution India has in the world is it's backwaters. They are the only place in the globe where you can find this unique water landmark. Tagged as "Queen of Arabian Sea", Kochi or Cochin receive millions of visitors every year. Being Kerala's industrial and commercial capital, it's ports where the busiest from the transport of goods to every hour cruises of tourists in and around the metropolis. A cluster of islands surrounding Vembanad Lake, it is a picturesque port in ancient times putting Arabian, Chinese, Dutch, Portuguese and British a good setting for trade and commerce.

Due to this, these foreign traders leave their own heritage in the island. One of which is Bolghatty Palace, a panoramic Dutch Palace that has a nice golf course and green lawns. Chinese also embarked their legacy by introducing their fishing nets which is only found in Fort Kochi. Aside from this, there's also Willingdon Island, a large man-made island which comprises of sand and dredged to the backwaters that will deepen the Kochi Port. There is also the Elephant Training Center in which you will see elephants in action.

You can enjoy the serenity of this place as it has no pubs or nightlife. Instead, wines are served in the hotel lobbies but if you want to have a taste of their local wine, you can have it in little shops located in the city. So spend your vacation the Indian way and go to Kochi backwater. This is another one great chance we shouldn't dare to miss.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/indias-kochi-backwaters-386018.html

Make traveling special and original, away from the hackneyed railway travel of everyday life. Shake hands with luxury herself as you gift yourself an experience of a lifetime – travel on one of the luxury trains in India. Quintessence of opulence and style, the luxury trains in India are delights to be in, honestly.

The palace on wheels is arguably the best option for luxury trains in India. Having started its services on 26th January 1982, the palace on wheels, India resulted as an initiative of the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation and Indian Railways. Covering Delhi, Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittaurgarh, Udaipur and Agra, it escorts you to the prime tourist attractions of India - Hawa Mahal, the City Palace, Amber Fort, Qutab Minar, Red Fort and Jama Masjid, Purana Qila, the Lotus temple, the India Gate Jantar Mantar, Ranthambore National Park, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary and the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and the Bulund Darwaza are among the many destinations of the palace on wheels.

The coaches of the palace on wheels are almost palace chambers incarnate. Centrally air conditioned, the fourteen plush bogies, each named after a former Rajput state (Kota, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Sirohi, Alwar, Bundi, Dungarpur, Kishangarh, Bharatpur, Jhalawar and Dholpur), are absolute pleasures to be in. The facilities meeted out here are reminiscent of the regal lifestyle of the Rajputs. You can avail of the following:

• Attached toilets
• Channel music
• Intercom
• Running hot and cold water
• Shower
• Wall-to-wall carpeting
• Satellite phones

The furniture and furnishings in each of these splendid coaches of one of the finest luxury trains in India are epitomes of lavishness and luxury. The rich colors, the lush cushions and the royal furniture give a regal feel to the setting.

You can step into the two restaurants cum kitchen cabins of the palace on wheels called the Maharaja and the Maharani serving authentic Rajasthani, Indian, Continental and Chinese cuisine. A well stocked cellar ensures top quality wine, liquor and spirits from India and the world.

You will be delighted to spot some of the loveliest art pieces and handiwork specimens that are on display at the various State Govt. owned Emporia in the different locations that are touched by the palace on wheels, India.

Some of the other amenities provided by the palace on wheels are as follows:

• Indoor games
• Medical assistance
• Luggage Collection
• ATM
• Mail box
• Toiletries
• Facilities for the disabled.

The Rajput hospitality, the royal services and the aura of the coaches in the Palace on Wheels will surely give you the feel of being treated like the prince himself.

Besides the palace on wheels, some of the other luxury trains in India that offer similar high profile majestic services to the passengers are as follows:

• Deccan Odyssey
• Heritage on Wheels
• Fairy Queen
• India on Wheels
• Great Indian Royal Express

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/luxury-trains-in-india-327768.html

By: Stuart Cheese

In my capacity as the UK Director of Operations for One World Tours Limited, one of my jobs is to ensure every client has the best tour possible, so here's my top 10 tips if you are considering holidays in Egypt

1. Consider your dress. Egypt is a largely Muslim country and with this in mind, men and women should consider what they wear. You certainly do not have to be over the top, lets face it, it's a hot climate. But you should avoid shorts and short sleeved shirts. Women may also want to consider taking a head scarf too, not for general use, but just in case they visit particularly important temples etc.

2. Pens. Offer a child an Egyptian pound or a pen and they will take the pen every time. Pens for children are like gold-dust. So if you want to give the kids a treat, pack a box of cheap pens and give them out whenever you get the chance. Do note though, that you need to do this not too openly as if you don't you may have a very good natured riot on your hands as kids will appear out of nowhere when you start handing them out.

3. Toilet Paper. Toilet paper is often at a premium at historical sites and so it's a really good idea to take a roll out of your hotel and take it in your back whenever you are out for the day. It should also be noted here that toilets at many historical sites are not of a "western standard" so arranging toilet visits in hotels, restaurant stops etc is not a bad idea.

4. Water. Like with any other hot climates, you should look to take plenty of water with you on your days out and make sure it's sealed of course.

5 Avoid Ice / Salads etc. This related partly to number 4. People generally know not to drink non bottled water (to avoid possible upset stomachs), but often they over look that ice is frozen water and that salads have often been washed in water. Keep these things in mind when ordering food and drinks.

6 Take small notes. If you are going to tip, it's a good idea and it avoids embarrassment to change up some bigger notes for a number of 1 LE (Egyptian Pound) notes

7 Be Strong. This applies to people begging. Egypt is a relatively financially poor country and with that comes the fact that people (children and adults) will beg. This is obviously a very personal issue, but obviously it's possible to personally sort out all of Egypts financial problems. So feel free to help out where you can and when you feel comfortable, but realise, it's just not possible to give to everyone who asks.

8 When in Rome. This again partly relates to tip 1. You are ultimately holidaying in a more reserved country and therefore you need to just think about things like public shows of affection. Obviously we want you to have a good time, just be respectful to a different culture and you'll be just fine.

9 Haggle. As a tourist, when you buy almost anything, anywhere, the price will be marked up. You therefore HAVE to bargain your socks off. We generally suggest offering a maximum of 1/3 to 1/2 of the asking price and work up. If you can do it, you are even better to not offer a price at all, but just keep saying no and let them lower the price. The best tip is to just keep saying no until the person selling stops and lets you walk. At that point, you just won't get a better price and then you have the option to go back and say – OK, I'll take it at that price !

10 Baksheesh. If you do not know what this is, by the end of your holidays you will ! Baksheesh is a tip in Egypt for just about anything. From carrying your bags at the airport to offering to have a picture with you or showing around a tomb. So just be aware. If you chose to pay (it's completely optional) pay with the smallest bills / nots possible (1 LE will be just fine).

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By: Andy Burrows

So, you've finally booked that exotic holiday to Thailand and now you're thinking about doing something really different? Why not get your PADI Open Water certification? It takes just a few days and will open up a whole new underwater world to you.

You'll find PADI is the most widely available certification with just a handful of shops offering NAUI and SSI certifications. There are dive shops all over Thailand, in places like Phuket, Khao Lak, Chumpon, Hua Hin, Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Koh Phangnan, Koh Chang, Koh Samet, Pattaya, Phi Phi, Krabi and more.

Some dive shops are tied to resorts while many are their own businesses. You can do your PADI Open Water paperwork in your home country before you arrive and do your checkout dives in Thailand, or do the whole course in Thailand. You also have the choice of doing your checkout dives by daytrip or from a liveaboard vessel.

Where you go to take your course depends on what your preferences are. Each location has its own attractions and if you plan to spend more time above the water than below it, you might want to choose your destination for its other offerings. Likewise, not all dive shops or instructors are of the same quality.

You'll want to visit several dive shops where you are staying and meet the instructor that you would have if you did your Open Water course there. If English is not your native language, you may find a dive shop with an instructor speaking Dutch, French, Italian, etc. Dive shops in the more popular diving areas provide instruction and exams in several languages.

Equipment standards vary between shops as well. You'll want to make sure that the equipment is not too old and that it has been well maintained and stored, as well as cleaned properly. For instance, regulators go in your mouth and they should be well cleaned between users. Additionally, most people urinate in their wetsuits and these should be cleaned after each dive. All equipment must be cleaned of salt water or the crystallization can damage it.

Poorly maintained regulator, BCDs and dive computers can malfunction and cause a serious accident that may even lead to your death. Likewise, a poorly trained dive instructor or one who does not take his or her job seriously can get you killed too.

One of the most popular places to take PADI courses in Thailand is Koh Tao, known for its cheap diving and abundance of dive shops, and within easy reach of Samui. You'll have plenty of choices here and would be wise to take your time and visit as many shops as possible. Koh Tao is a good place to learn how to dive and to proceed through Advanced, Rescue Diver, Divemaster/Master Scuba Diver, and Instructor courses.

However, this island is not recommended for fun, recreational dives as the visibility and quality of the reefs is relatively poor. Koh Tao is most popular with young backpackers, although there are a few resorts for those who do not enjoy this scene. Phi Phi offers a similar scene on a smaller scale with better diving.

For quality diving, it's best to go to Phuket or Khao Lak, where you have easy access to the Similan Islands. These nine islands are part of Phang Nga province and located within a marine national park. They are pristine and rich with wildlife above and below the water. The beaches here are some of the most beautiful in the world and the dive spots are some of the best in the world. Colourful reefs and boulder formations are a plus, with a variety of coral and marine life. Visibility is also good, varying from 30 to 50m.

The best way to see the Similans is by liveaboard, and most dive operators will allow you to do your Open Water dives from the boat if you've completed the paper and pool work ashore beforehand, usually with diving courses on Phuket. Note that in mind that the Similans are closed during the low season due to unfavourable boating and diving conditions. Additionally, sites have depths well past the recreational limit of 40m and some may have currents. It's advisable that you take courses past Open Water to become a stronger diver and be permitted to dive to the limit.

There are diving courses on Samui as well, and plenty of dive operators offering all levels of diving courses on Phuket, even a few in Krabi. In fact you'll find scuba courses in Pattaya, Koh Chang and other places, but with less choice of date flexibility.

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Andy Burrows rates Thailand as one of his favourite adventure destinations. His recommends websites are:
www.1stoppkrabi.com">1stop Krabi and Phi Phi
www.1stopsamui.com">1stop Samui

By: Stuart Cheese

In my capacity as the UK Director of Operations for One World Tours Limited, one of my jobs is to ensure every client has the best tour possible, so here are my top 5 suggestions for cities to visit in China during your holiday.

1.Shanghai is a magnificent city whose culture changes almost before your very eyes. The City has reshaped itself since the market restrictions have been lifted and offers a new and inspirational atmosphere.

The Bund (Zhongshan Road) has remained virtually unchanged and is instantly recognised as one of the famous landmark waterfronts in Shanghai for many, many years.

There are various temples and gardens within Shanghai, some of them in the past were left unattended which enabled the forces of nature to reclaim them. These temples and gardens have since been restored and have now become tourist attractions from people all over the world.

Like Any major city, Shanghai has a very impressive sky line. One of the buildings which is a must to see is the stunning Oriental Pearl TV Tower. If you have the chance it is worth visiting one of the upper observation platforms to capture a magnificent view over the whole of the city.

In my opinion Shanghai should be totally avoided in the Chinese New Year; as the city comes to a full standstill and public transport becomes a complete nightmare. During the rest of winter there are fewer tourists and better deals in the hotels.

Summer is obviously the peak season and it can become hot and humid. September to November is a good time to visit as there are many festivals and fairs of great interest to witness.

2. Beijing is the capital city of China. The city has fantastic historical places of interest which are embraced in beautiful surroundings. The Forbidden City is the largest and well looked after ancient structure.
There is also the beautiful Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace where the Emperor would escape from the rest of the world. One pleasant surprise was a beautiful boat made completely of marble on which the Emperor indulged himself in the stunning surroundings.
Another major attraction is the Ming tombs and of course the Badling Wall (Great Wall) which is worth climbing to see the beautiful views.

3. This ancient city Xian, is surrounded by the city wall in this area there are 4 main attractions. There is the Great Islamic Mosque, The Bell Tower, The Drum Tower and the Provincial Museum.

Goose Pagoda, a fantastic example of stunning architecture and a definite must see.
The temples in Xian are Buddhist and Taoism temples.
If you are more of a scenic lover then the Huashan mountain is the place for you. It is one of 4 mountains in China.

Of course you cannot go to China without visiting the Terracotta Warriors and Horses. The pure magnitude of the 3 separate viewing pits are well worth seeing.

4. Guilin was a personal favourite for me, from the moment I stepped out of the airport, it was evening and everything was gloriously lit up with colourful neon lights.
All of the traditional landscape Chinese paintings that I have seen must have been inspired by this idyllic place. My lasting memories are of the stunningly beautiful caves which all have secrets and which the guide was only too eager to share with me. The only more stunning thing than all of this was to be able to see it from above on a cable car.

5 Hong Kong. Aberdeen, is one of Hong Kong Island's main attractions. It is interesting to see the junks in which people live and fish the clear blue water.

Ocean Park is like an upgrade of many Sealife centres. There is plenty for the whole family to see and do including Atoll Reef, performing animals, a roller coaster, etc.

Stanley is more a place for the woman with it's bustling shops and markets, a perfect place for the shopaholic.
By far the best beach in Hong Kong is at Repulse Bay but be warned it can get pretty hectic at weekends.

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Stuart Cheese is the UK Director of Operations for One World Tours and, having visited over 110 countries, has a wealth of travel experience. One World Tours / The Holidays in China Specialists

By: Steve Elworthy

Amsterdam - the capital city of the Netherlands is situated in the south of the province North Holland. Amsterdam (name literally meaning Amstel dam) was founded in the late 12th century as a small fishing village.

Hostels in the city of Amsterdam ( http://www.amsterdam-hotels-deals.net ) are readily available for the visitors and locals. One can easily find different advertisements placed around the streets for their convenience. To further enlighten you with the hotel classification system, it will be interesting to learn that all Dutch hotels use the same system of stars: the Dutch Hotel Classification. The stars are shown on a dark red shield, clearly visible outside by the hotel's entrance. One star is the minimum, five stars the maximum. And thus, stars in a travel guide or map will therefore make it easier to expect the type of serviced rendered and facilities provided.

Insist on a room on the 10th floor or higher for the most striking views of the active harbor, dotted with ferries, cruise ships, small boats and cranes. When your eyes finally focus on the contemporary interior, you'll notice a comfortable bed, a navy blue couch under the window and an electric kettle for coffee or tea. The décor picks up on the facade's striped motif: gray wall-to-wall carpeting, lined beige curtains and thinly striped ivory-and-brown nightstands.

Though is small but resourceful, built in spotless white-tile surfaces and bright halogen lighting. The shower stand offers good pressure and instant hot water with towels though small, but downy and bleach white.

Wi-Fi free of cost is available, and two computers are available in the lobby. Also well-resourced gym and spa are present on the mezzanine level. Silk Road – an Asian-leitmotif restaurant, with its trendy décor and a miscellaneous menu of Indian, Indonesian and Thai meals, plus other international cuisine provides a good service. Though not cheap but it offers a generous buffet of pastries, fruits, cereals, cheeses, meats and an omelet bar.

Amsterdam persists on an avant-garde and laid-back lifestyle, sustaining affordable options comparative to other European capitals, from posh restaurants to free cultural events.

The common complaint about Amsterdam's budget hotels is that they're either too secluded, or too close to the noisy Central Station. One exception is the family-owned 36-room Hotel Aalborg. Recently refurbished hotelpresent in midst of the Pijp, It's also two blocks from the excellent Albert Cuyp market, where 300-plus stalls offer bargains on everything from furniture to Dutch delicacies. Double rooms start at 69 euros, about 94 dollar at 1.36 dollar to the euro, including breakfast.

Mövenpick's latest hotel, a 408-room high-rise sited on Amsterdam's busy harbor, is a wonderful place to stay, indeed. Designed by the Dutch firm Claus en Kaan, the hotel has a 20-story exterior striped in alternating bands of glass, white concrete and green granite. Though not quite in the Amsterdam city center, it is located on the water's edge, between the new Muziekgebouw concert hall and the Passenger Terminal buildings. Interestingly, It's also a smoke-free hotel which is a new concept in the city.

Amsterdam American Hotel - one of the most captivating monuments in Amsterdam is this whimsical, castle-like mix of Venetian Gothic and Art Nouveau, which has been both a prominent landmark and a popular meeting place for Amsterdammers since 1900. It has been constructed by architect Willem Kromhout (1864-1940), with the depiction of a new simplification of the earlier, heavily ornamented neo-Gothic style of Amsterdam architecture. With an exterior of turrets, arches, and balconies, in accordance with the regulations of the National Monument Care Office, the interior of the hotel is contemporary and stylish; though garish it seems, too, at times. Rooms are splendidly furnished, and while some have a view of the Singelgracht, others enjoy kaleidoscopic Leidseplein. The location of the hotel is one of the best in town. The famous Café Américain is one of the most stylish diner in Europe. There is also the Bar & Lounge Américain, which has a closed-in terrace looking out on Leidseplein.

For more information about Hotels in Amsterdam visit: http://www.amsterdam-hotels-deals.net/amsterdam/Hotels-In-Amsterdam/index.aspx

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Steve Elworthy hosts www.amsterdam-hotels-deals.net and expresses his passion for hotels through writing and discussion. He works for www.ixs.net

By: Linh Le Dieu

If you're on a flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Tokyo or Osaka, the plane is probably full. Observe your fellow passengers and you'll note that, along with the usual crowd of businessmen in suits, there are scores of Japanese women toting overstuffed carry-on bags. Thanks to Japanese press reports about Ho Chi Minh City's great shopping bargains, the city has become a hot destination for young Japanese women eager to shop, sightsee and relax.

Relax in Ho Chi Minh City? While the city may seem anything but peaceful, some local entrepreneurs saw an opportunity in the chaos. They reasoned that after a hard day of shopping and touring, visitors were in desperate need of rejuvenation. What was missing was a spa.

Women only

With its high ceilings, polished wood trim and glittering chandelier, the front room of the Saigon Spa resembles the lobby of a swank boutique hotel. Upon entering, guests are met by young women in Chinese-style cotton blouses and skirts, who usher them into an airy waiting room where they are served cups of scented herbal tea that is said to stimulate blood circulation. From there, customers can proceed to the herbal saunas, a Jacuzzi strewn with rose petals, or various screened massage rooms. The place smells divine.

"We use more than 10 kinds of fresh herbs in the Jacuzzi that we buy from the market," says Miyuki Wada, Saigon Spa's manager. "The Japanese boss went to s traditional sauna in Cambodia and was inspired to operate in this way."

Customers can choose to be massaged with ginger oil or lemongrass, have themselves slathered in Deal Sea mud, or coated in fresh papaya pulp. Many customers - 80 percent of whom are Japanese - opt for the works the Blissful Day package takes six hours, costs US$110, and involves a shower and herbal steam bath, a body scrub, a Dead Sea mud wrap, an aromatherapy massage, a dip in the b=herbal spa, a collagen facial treatment, a manicure and pedicure, foot reflexology, a paraffin hand treatment and a snack.

Catering only to women, this Japanese-Vietnamese joint venture opened in February 2002.

Secret Garden

Spa Tropic opened a month later, in March 2002. Run by Thuy Do, a Vietnamese-American woman, this spa is both smaller and more low-key than the Saigon Spa. Set in an old French villa down a small lane off busy Hai Ba Trung Street, it feels like a well-kept secret. "It's a nice surprise for people who do find it," says Ms. Thuy. International expats and Japanese tourists comprise most of the clientele.

With its white alls and simple furnishings, Spa Tropic has a spare, Zen-like vibe, complete with a tint Japanese-style garden. "I chose a villa to give it character and make it distinctly Vietnamese", says Ms. Thuy. "I wanted a fresh, contemporary and clean look."

Customers don loose clothes and lie on futons on the floor for their massages, choosing between deep-tissue Swedish massage and a more vigorous style of Thai - inspired Shiatsu. An hour-long massage costs US$22.

All of the aromatherapy and massage oils are imported, although Ms. Thuy plans to incorporate some traditional Vietnamese medicinal plants into her treatments. One new body scrub employs powdered rau ma - a herb typically steeped to make a cooling drink - mixed with soy milk to cool, soothe and exfoliate the skin. This scrub is followed by a light massage with lemongrass and kafir-lime oils.

Beauty Cures

The newest beauty spot in town is Qi Saigon, a large spa near the airport that uses products from the Label Qi, an offshoot of the Japanese cosmetics firm Shiseido. "It's the same company but more luxurious," explains manager Mai Thu Phuong. Ms. Phuong estimates that 70 percent of Qi's customers are Japanese.

With 100 staff and separate floors for men and women, Qi Saigon is the city's biggest spa. The ground floor features a hair salon while the top floor houses a bar. In contrast to the old-fashioned Asian vibe of its competitors, Qi is sleekly modern. Pale pink decor, curved walls, glass blocks, mirrors and polished chrome equipment give customers the sense that they're patients in an upscale medical clinic.

The emphasis here is on skin treatments. Along with massages, Qi offers facial treatments said to reduce the effects of aging, whiten the skin, and reduce acne. Hour-long facials cost US$33 to US$63.

While Japanese visitors and expats now account for most of these spa's customers, it's only a matter of time before this trend catches on among stressed-out Vietnamese urbanites. "High-income Vietnamese are exploring different options, but many still focus on beauty instead of health and relaxation", reports Ms. Thuy of Saigon Tropic. As the pressures of urban life continue to take their toll, it's not just tired tourists who'll be willing to splurge on spa treatments. After all, a few blissful hours of being pampered can feel like a mini vacation.

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For more information about travel in Vietnam, visit Vietnam Travel - A complete guide for your travel in Vietnam

By: Stuart Cheese

In my capacity as the UK Director of Operations for One World Tours Limited, one of my jobs is to ensure every client has the best tour possible, so here are my top 5 suggestions for cities to visit in Thailand during your holiday.

1.Bangkok is a fascinating city which has managed to keep it's ancient eastern traditions whilst embracing the modern progression of the western world. Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand and offers a host of experiences which include floating markets, modern bars, top of the range shopping, gastronomical delights and ancient temples steeped in the city's history.

The Chao Phraya River separates the city and has a series of canals. The new 'Sky train' railway is something which should be experienced whilst in the city should you fancy avoiding the bustling traffic.

One of the largest floating markets is on the outskirts of Bangkok and you'll greeted by the aromatic smells and the age old tradition of the locals and their way of making a living along the busy canals.

There is an array of beautiful and ancient buildings not to be missed whilst in Thailand. Although I did not personally experience all of the nightlife, it was made obvious to me that all of my entertainment needs would be taken care of by all well informed taxi drivers wishing to proudly show off their culture.

2. Phuket is the biggest island attraction that Thailand has to offer. It is the perfect place to retreat to and enjoy a tropical paradise. Although the west coast of the island was almost destroyed by the tsunami of 2004, there is very little evidence remaining to show that it occurred.

Not to be missed are:

Old Phuket Town. Chinese immigrants from the 19th century, who were lured in the past by the tin mines, left behind them a host of amazing Sino-Portuguese mansions along Dibu and Thalang roads.

Thai Boxing. A personal favourite of mine, this national sport is violent and very fast paced. For regular matches the Saphan Him Stadium in Phuket City is the place to be.

3.Krabi. Krabi Province is in the middle southern part of Thailand. It is situated in the aquamarine water of the Andaman Sea. It is one of the most stunning places in all of Thailand.

Krabi Town is situated near the mouth of the Krabi River. The Mangrove forest is something to experience and is a must for avid bird watchers. Krabi Resort is set among a curtain of palm trees on the Ao-PhraNang beach. This is a delightful place to be if you are looking to soak up the natural beauty that surrounds you.

4. Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai is a city full of traditional heritage that shares its secrets with all who wish to discover them. It is a city with stunning natural beauty. It is amazing to see plants that we have to protect from the frost, growing in their scores, naturally along the roadside.

The people of Chiang Mai are a wonder in themselves with exceptional handicraft skills producing magical souvenirs for the endless throng of visitors. Chiang Mai houses the Inthanon Mountain, standing 8,448 feet above sea level making it the highest mountain Thailand.

5.Sukhothai. When visiting Sukhothai the main attractions for the area are Phra Mae Ya Shirne which is located in the Muang District. You will see a long haired figure made of stone that resembles an ancient queen. There is also a museum and National park as well as monuments of great interest inside the city walls.

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Stuart Cheese is the UK Director of Operations for One World Tours and, having visited over 110 countries, has a wealth of travel experience. One World Tours / The Holidays in Thailand Specialists

By: Stuart Cheese

In my capacity as the UK Director of Operations for One World Tours Limited, one of my jobs is to ensure every client has the best tour possible, so here are my top suggestions for sites to take in during your holiday Hong Kong.

1. I would recommend that a ride on the Star Ferry across the harbour is something to definitely experience. It is wonderful to see the people who have made a life on the harbour fishing and existing in the middle of the city. There is also an incredible floating restaurant on the harbour where you can experience wonderful culinary delights.

2. Taking the tram to the top of Victoria Peak is also something to experience if you have made the effort to go all the way to Hong Kong.
The pollution is something to experience in itself and going to the peak would best be done before it gets too bad if you wish to see the sights. Often though even if the view is bad, there are a couple of lads who will take your picture and superimpose it on a picture of what you would have seen on a clear day – quite fun !

3. Ocean Park is a full-blown amusement park. There is a popular Dragon Roller Coaster, Ferris wheel and other white knuckle rides. There is a marine park with a Shark Aquarium that will interest the younger visitors to Hong Kong.
You will also see a traditional Chinese style village where street fairs add exciting colour to the whole atmosphere.

4. Wong Tai Sin is the most well-known and temple in the city and is also the busiest. The temple is a stunning example of a traditional Chinese temple. What stood out to me when I visited was the temple was the clouds of smoke and the intense smell from the incense sticks that the visitors were burning. The Chinese believe that by burning these sticks that they will have good fortune. It is a free to visit the temple (donations are welcome).

5. Yuen Po Street Bird Market. There are hundreds of exotic birds in equally exotic cages as buying a bird appears to be a business matter in Hong Kong. People spend hours with these birds and I was informed that customers will only buy a bird if the bird chooses them. It is considered to be bad luck to purchase a bird that is not happy as the birds happiness is of utmost importance to Hong Kongians.

6. If you are a shopaholic then a visit Stanley Market is a must. You will be able to pick up bargains for a fraction of the price the are sold for in town. This is a goo time to mention not to buy anything from a shop in the main city that does not have a name / board of the shop front. Shopkeepers in these shops may well take your money and tell you that they do not have the goods in stock. They then take your hotel details and promise to bring the items that you have paid for to your hotel and guess what? They don't.

Repulse Bay is the most famous beach in Hong Kong, apparently so named because the British army had seen off some pirates in olden times! This is a popular destination for the Chinese people and can become so packed that there is no room to sit!
November is the best time to go if you want to avoid the rush and the temperature is still a comfortably warm 70 degrees.

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Stuart Cheese is the UK Director of Operations for One World Tours and, having visited over 110 countries, has a wealth of travel experience. One World Tours / The Holidays in Hong Kong Specialists

By: Robert W. Benjamin

If you like those out of the way places that are hidden gems then you will love the Heise Hot Springs located near the Snake River close to Idaho Falls. This resort has been family run since 1898 and it offers many fun activities for tourists and even locals. Fun things include a 350 foot water slide that is wonderful for all ages, a nine hole golf course, swimming pools, and even float and fishing trips down the Snake River. There are two options for housing and this includes the RV park where you can park
your own RV or else you can stay in a two bedroom cabin. The hot springs are closed in November, but are open for your enjoyment the rest of the year.

The hours of the Heise Hot Springs are 8 am until 10 pm daily Memorial Day to Labor Day and in the winter from 2 pm to 10 pm on weekdays and Saturday and Sunday from 10 am until 10 pm. The fee for entrance is $6 for adults and $3 for kids under 11. This makes for an ultra affordable vacation if you are on a budget and even if you aren't you will still appreciate an affordable outing for your entire family for once.

The hot springs are located at 5116 E. Heise Road in Ririe, Idaho. If you are traveling by RV in Idaho you must include the hot springs on your list of things to do. There are of course many other fun activities in Idaho as well include mining era towns, museums, canyons, and even theme parks. When you think of places to vacation Idaho might not jump to the top of the list but there are many beautiful places in this great state and lots of fun things to do. You will be surprised at all Idaho has to offer not to
mention relieved at the affordable prices of many of the tourist attractions.

There is a website that has great information on USA Vacations and Unique Travel Spots Listed State By State and Season, the website is called: Seasonal Vacation Spots, and can be found at this url:

http://www.seasonalvacationspots.com

By Robert W. Benjamin

Copyright © 2007

You may publish this article in your ezine, newsletter, or on your web site as long as it is reprinted in its entirety and without modification except for formatting needs or grammar corrections.

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Robert W. Benjamin has been in the software business on the internet for over 5 years, and has been producing low-cost software for the past 25+ years. He first released products on the AMIGA and C64 computer systems in the late 1970's-80's. Get a Credit Card or Fast Cash Loan! www.rb59.com

China Town in Mauritius

By: André Lee

A regional quarter of the past adversities pulled people together, to fight for survival and progress of their kinsmen. "You can find anything at the Royal Road of Chinatown," goes the saying, generally accepted with much skepticism and some degree of disbelief. However, neighborhood is distinctively recognizable by numerous tiny shops agglomerated side-by-side, all selling identical items obviously, as they all sell all products. Second hand and used spare parts, plastic toys, Chinese paintings, clothes, books and medicines may be found in the same shop.

In the suffocating heat of Port Louis, one can only stand in awe at the contrast between the activity and life animating the Chinatown and the stillness of the place after working hours in the late afternoon and the evening when cats and dogs seem to be the only passers-by. As you walk along down Royal Road, you will encounter the various hardware stores. Though many have expanded and modernized, a small number of stores still sell tin wares, lamps, ropes and cooking utensils, which are now considered luxury items of a bygone time.

Even today, the eldest inhabitants of the Port Louis Chinatown have kept a deep Chinese accent making their speeches almost incomprehensible. Impatient and always in a hurry, the elder Chinese people seem never to have the time to stop and discuss, saying that they have no time for idle talk and they are there to do business only. What also characterize the Chinatown are undeniably the heat, dust and the strong smell oozing from the ingredients and spices, proper to Chinese cuisine, giving the real impression of being in China. Nose stinging spices, dried mushrooms, nuts, grains; some even say, "Everything you need to prepare Chinese cuisine can be obtained in Chinatown, provided you knock on thy right doors."

Indeed one of the major cultural characteristics of a neighborhood such as Chinatown is undeniably its food. The Lai Min Restaurant, Chinatown Restaurant, Furama Restaurant, Kwang Chow Restaurant, Singapora Restaurant and some of the eating-places which propose Chinese cuisine. Food is one of the main interests of the neighborhood. "You won't walk 50m without passing by two or three snacks which propose 'hakienns', wax cakes, 'gato zinli' or 'gato cravate' and among others," points out a tourist, visibly amused by the movement of the small town'.

Customs and habits

However, Chinatown without its traditional festivals is unimaginable, the best known among which is most probably the Chinese New Year. It is an occasion for old and young to gather around the same table and welcome the New Year. Every Chinese believes that it is auspicious to begin the New Year well in order to gain health, wealth and happiness. At the same time of prayer on the first day of the year, Chinatown and the shopping centers are unusually quiet. In the place of the noise and the bustle, one only hears the sound of silences. The heart of the City has stopped beating. Chinese pavements as well as entrances to Chinese houses are canopied red with exploded firecrackers.

How did all start? The first Chinese immigrants landed in Mauritius in the 1820's from the province of Kwang Tong in the South Eastern region of China, and were followed by the Hakkas, originating from the region of Honan in central China. A large number converted to Christianity and despite the impact of the European cultural influence, most of the Chinese, particularly those of the older generation, are still attached to their ancestral customs, traditions and culture.

Towards the end of the 19th century when Chinese immigrants reached a peak, the Asiatic culture was at its height. Since then, the country witnessed intensive cultural activities. Profound changes have taken place affecting the Chinese community for better and for worse. Indeed the Chinese food and eating habits, some traditional festivals like the Chinese New Year, moon festival and the dragon boat festival are some of the many remnants of the Chinese past.

The younger generation has been strongly influenced by the western way of life. Indeed we can consider that the Chinese have become as westernized as the most western-oriented communities on the island. However, much effort is being invested by the older generation to come back to the values of the first Chinese immigrants, attached to the harmony and peace with the nature and people.

MauriTravel

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About the author: André Lee is the Internet Marketing consultant, Advisors to Tour Operators and Ticketing Agents. More of his articles are available at mauritravel.com

By: Stuart Cheese

Lets face it, some countries are expensive, some are very cheap and others are somewhere in between. The burning question if you are thinking of visiting Egypt is can Egypt be visited on a budget ? Stuart Cheese, the UK Director of Operations for One World Tours says yes it can and tells you how to make the best of your money.

1. Take and organised tour. Egypt is an expensive place to "wing", so while you could just turn up at the airport and go for it, my number one tip for keeping to a budget is to book a tour. 7 days including Cairo, Aswan, Abu Simbel and Luxor will only cost you around £200 and that includes all your transfers, accommodation and site visits. A very good start to Egypt on a budget.

2. If you take a taxi – go straight to where you are going, do not get taken somewhere you had not planned on going to. Whether you are taking an organised tour or not. If you have free time, then you may decide to take a taxi ride somewhere. If you do, be sure to make 100% that you do not want to make any stops en-route. Taxis in Egypt are very cheap, but unfortunately, they will often suggest you stop off at perfume shop etc. They do this simply because, they will be on a kick back from the shop owner on anything you buy. So do keep this in mind.

3. Felucca on the Nile in Luxor. If you have an afternoon free, then a really inexpensive afternoon is a Felucca sailing on the Nile in Luxor. If you set out about 1 o'clock in the afternoon, you'll sail up river to Banana Island where you'll have a while to have a wander around and get a drink if required. Sailing back you will get to see the sun setting over the Valley of the Kings. It's a stunning site and well worth the £5 – yes £5, it will cost you for the sailing. A truly magical afternoon
4. Food is CHEAP !!! Not much more to add to this. Food in Egypt, not matter where you eat is very cheap indeed. If you go western (takeaway), then you can expect to only pay about 1/3 of the price. If you eat at local (Egyptian) restaurants, then you will be looking at a 3 course meal and drinks costing you around £5 (GBP). Now that's a holiday in Egypt on a budget !
5. Sound and Light shows – If you have decided to take in the Sound and light shows (in particular at Philae Temple and Karnak), there is a strong argument for not visiting them in the daylight. The sound and light show at Karnak is stunning and I actually think it's even better than visiting in the daylight and Philae in Aswan is the same – The sailing back across the Nile twth the Temple lit up is worth the money alone. I would not suggest missing The Pyramids in the daytime though – these would definitely be seen during the day and at night

6. Don't pay for extras you do not need – A little planning can save you time and money. The Valley of the Kings is a perfect example. When you buy your entry ticket, it gives you access to the Valley but more importantly to 3 tombs. This is where research comes in. You can of course buy extra tomb tickets, but to be honest, if you pick the right 3, then there's just no need to look at the others which will come in as very poor seconds. A note here is also that you have to pay extra to get into King Tuts tomb. Only do this if you really want to say "I have been in Kings Tuts tomb", otherwise give it a miss, it's definitely not the best of the tombs in the Valley of the Kings.

7. Overnight trains – why pay for a night in a hotel ? Overnight trains from Cairo to Aswan / Luxor and from Luxor / Aswan to Cairo are great for a couple of reasons. 1 They are very cheap and 2, they take the place of an overnight hotel stay. So you not only do not have to waste a whole day travelling (the train ride from Cairo to Aswan is around 12 hours) but you lso save on not needing a hotel for the night. If you happened to want extra comfort, you can actually upgrade to a private sleeper cabin on the trains and whilst it will cost you about £35 you get a bed, an evening meal and breakfast. So once again a great little budget tip

8. Don't give Baksheesh to everyone who asks for it ! If you do not know what Baksheesh is, you will do by the time you get back from Egypt. Baksheesh is a tip in Egypt for doing just about anything, this can be carrying your bags, taking a photo for you, being in a photo with you ! or even in the case of children, a tip just for the asking. So just be careful, if you gave to everyone who asked for it, you would end up having anything but a budget holiday in Egypt !

9. Take lots of pens ! This may sound odd, but if you offer an Egyptian child a pen or a quid, the kids will take the pens every time. Pens are hard to come in Egypt and so if you take a box of 50, you'll be very popular indeed.

10. Have a big breakfast. Don't forget that breakfast will almost certainly be included in your hotel stay, so make the most of it and have a hearty breakfast and with most hotels (although you may have to ask) if you are leaving early, they will even box up a continental breakfast for you.

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Stuart Cheese is the UK Director of Operations for One World Tours and, having visited over 110 countries, has a wealth of travel experience. One World Tours / The Holidays in Egypt Specialists

By: Khairul Syahir

Langkawi situated just off the northwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia comprises a group of 104 tropical islands during the low tides and 99 Island during the high tides. The main island Langkawi, is 47. 848 Hectare followed by Pulau Dayang Bunting and Pulau Tuba while some of the others appear to be mere dots in the emerald green ocean when viewed from the air.
In Langkawi a nature adventure had a true-blue naturalist as their guide. The guide's name is Irshad Mobarak. Dubbed the Jungle-wallah (Jungle-fellow) of Langkawi (http://www.junglewallah.com), he is perfect for the job as he possesses vast knowledge about Langkawi's wildlife, gleaned from years of trekking and observation of its jungles, mangroves and wildlife.

Some people think the beauty of Langkawi lies in its pristine beaches. Others like the duty-free shopping. But Irshad and his team of naturalists at Natural History Tours (http://www.wildlangkawi.com) reckon that the edge Langkawi has over places like Bali and Phuket is its jungle and wildlife.
As such Irshad and his team have been actively involved in preserving Langkawi's natural environment. His social-responsible company provides real ecotourism experiences such as nature walks, birdwatching, jungle-trekking and mangrove tours in kayaks or motorized boats without the "gimmicks" activities involve.
His pet peeve is the eagle-feeding sessions at the mangrove swamps of the Kilim River. While it is quite a sight to see dozens of white-bellied sea eagles and brahminy kites circling in the sky and swooping down on their food, Irshad feels it's bad for the birds.

"What you're doing is habituating the eagles to take food from humans when they usually feed on fish. Now they are given chicken guts, and these are from farm-bred chickens fed with antibiotics and hormones, making it unhealthy. It may affect their bone development and the integrity of the shells of their eggs." Irshad said contaminated feed could kill a lot of birds, as each feeding attracts between 50 to 100 birds.
Not only is Irshad fully acquainted with information on the wildlife in Langkawi, he is also great at handling children. His "young explorer club" is a hit for student's summer program in Malaysia and tourists traveling with their children. "The trick is not to bore them to death. You can be much more informative with adults, but with children, you need to make it more experiential. They need to touch and smell and conduct experiments."

Irshad, who's especially love birds, said Langkawi has recorded 190 species of birds, including brown winged kingfisher, black hooded oriole and mountain hawk eagle. The mountain hawk eagle which can be identified by its very pronounced crest with two feathers can only be found in Langkawi and Irshad has recorded 3 different individual here.
The relatively small and cut-off habitat of an island like Langkawi allows for many of its flora and fauna to evolve into unique species over thousands of years. But it also possessed a danger of Habitat-fragmentations. One of Irshad ongoing project is planting figs trees closer to the road so the canopy on either side of the road will meet and become close enough for animals to cross over. "This is one way to counter the negative effects of habitat fragmentations and we hope to see the results in 10 years," Irshad said. Visitor can also get involve in this program by purchasing trees and plant it during their visit to Langkawi (http://www.treesfornature.com)

Who is the Jungle-Wallah of Langkawi?
In the 80s, the Negri Sembilan-born Irshad was a decathlete and rugby player employed by a major bank institution. He worked for five years with the bank in Kuala Lumpur, only to discover the corporate world was simply not his cup of tea.
The turning point in his life came during a vacation in Tioman Island between 1981 and 1982. He realized that what he really wanted was to be closer to nature.

"So I quit my job, traveled and bummed around for a couple of years," said Irshad, and then he found Langkawi. The island's beauty and mystique inspired him to embark on his own study of its ecosystems.
"I saw the potential for nature-related work. I got a job as recreation manager at Datai and at the same time was involved in conservation work," he said. Soon, a new position was created for him, that of a Resident-naturalist. And today, after 19 years, he is so well-versed in the subject, he is considered an expert. He has trained many individual who is now employed by other hotels as their own Resident-naturalist and some of them work as independent nature guides.
Irshad considered himself very lucky because his work, his hobby and his passion are all fused into one. He also believes that taking care of the natural environment is an integral part of being a steward of the Earth. He is recently won DiGi Amazing Malaysians Award 2007, an award for Malaysians who were nominated by the public for their passion and dedication in heritage conservation.

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Khairul Syahir writes for commercial, informational and educational purposes and has written articles on various topics.

By: Lindsey Lindquist

The city of New York City is always bustling with activities but there are some events that only take place at a specific time every year. From festivals to parades and many other events, each month of the year is host to something unique.

During the month of January, The National Boat Show attracts tons of guests to the Jacob Javits Center. This show features hundreds of exhibits by any and everyone who has anything to do with boats. January also boasts the Winter Antiues Show. This show takes place at the Seventh Regiment Armory.

The Jacob Javits Center once again plays host during the month of February as it opens its doors to the International Motorcyle Show. The celebration of the Chinese New Year makes Chinatown even more interesting than normal during this month. Madison Square Garden also hosts the Westminster Dog Show, and February is Black History Month which means there are many events taking place all over the city.

Spring kicks off in March with the Ringling Bros. and the Barnum and Balley Circus that comes to Madison Square Garden. Fifth Avenue is busy during March also with the St. Patrick's Day Parade as well as the Greek Independence Day Parade.

Parades continue into the month of April with the Easter Parade on Fifth Avenue. The Jacob Javits Center again hosts the International Auto Show and the Cherry Blossom Festival takes place at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden. For those sports fans, April is the month when baseball season kicks off for the New York Mets and the New York Yankees, at Shea and Yankee Stadium, respectively. For those looking for something a little more refined, April is also the month when the New York City Ballet's spring season starts. These shows can be seen at the State Theater, Lincoln Center.

The last month of spring is a busy one as May plays home to the TriBeca Film Festival. This festival features over 200 movies as well as concerts and many other events. Another May festival, the Ninth Avenue International Food Festival, showcases food from every nation around the world in stands stretching over 20 city blocks. For those interested in art there is the Washington Square Outdoor Art Show, and flower lovers will enjoy Rose Week and the Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden. Parades continue to stream down Fifth Avenue during May with the Memorial Day Parade, and all city beaches will officially open during May.

For those visiting during June, there are concerts by the Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic to take in. The Belmont Stakes, a prestigious horse race, takes place during June in Belmont Park in Long Island. For anyone interested in a dance festival, the Midsummer Night Swing takes place at the Lincoln Center for Performing Arts. And if you think you've missed the parades, think again.

Summer is in full swing by July and so are the events in New York City. Macy's Annual 4th of July fireworks, the world's biggest display of fireworks, takes place over the East River. This wonderful display can be seen from many parts of the city and are especially fascinating from a boat on the river. July is also the time for the American Crafts Festival and Shakespeare in the Park at both the Delacorte Theater and in Central Park.

Summer comes to a close in August with the US Open Tennis Championship. August is also home to the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival in Queens and Harlem Week in Upper Manhattan. If you are looking for a music and dance festival during August, the River to River Festival is taking place in Lower Manhattan.

September is the start of a new a season and with that the New York Philharmonic, the Metropolitan Opera, the Giants, and the Jets all open their seasons. If your looking for worldly festivals, you can take in the San Gennaro Festival in Little Italy, or the West Indian Festival. Fifth Avenue is again a center for activity with the New York Is Book Country Fair. For those interested in the arts, there is another Washington Square Outdoor Art Show as well as the New York Film Festival to take in during September.

During October, travelers can find an enjoyable afternoon at Rockefeller Center as the ice skating season now begins. Another season kicking off is the New York Rangers season in Madison Square Garden. As always, parades abound in this city and October is no different. The Halloween Parade takes place in Greenwich Village and the Columbus Day Parade takes place on Fifth Avenue.

For those looking to take in a show, November offers the start of the New York City Ballet's fall season, and also the The Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall. For those interested in testing their own personal limits, or maybe just watching others test theirs, the New York City Marathon takes place from the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge to Central Park. The much-loved Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade takes place on Broadway and a Veteran's Day Parade on Fifth Avenue round out the calendar of events for November.

As the year draws to a close, there is still much to do in New York. Visitors can witness the Lighting of the Christmas Tree in Rockefeller Center or be part of the New Year's Eve celebration in Times Square. Central Park also hosts the Central Park Fireworks and Midnight Run during December.

No matter what time of the year you choose to visit the never-sleeping city of New York City, there will always be plenty to see and do.

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Lindsey Lindquist - Adventure Student Travel - Group Travel Coordinator Group Cruises and Bus Tours Student Travel

By: Tim Tye

London is one of the most exciting cities in the world and has lots of tourist attractions. While it is a big challenge to explore all of London's tourist attractions in person, it is quite possible to do it from the comfort of your desk, and all within an hour.

The City of London is the core of Greater London. It is also the oldest part of London, and has been around since Roman times. While the other parts of what is today London was rural countryside and villages, the City of London was already established. Within this part of London are tourist attractions such as the Tower of London and St Paul's Cathedral.

The Tower of London is a medieval fortress. It is a famous tourist attraction, and visitors come to watch the Beefeaters, as the guards are called. Many famous people have been imprisoned and executed here, including kings and queens that have lost favour. Crossing the Thames in front of the Tower of London is one of the most famous bridges in the capital, Tower Bridge. This iconic bridge is often mistaken for London Bridge, which is just a short distance away.

St Paul's Cathedral, seat of the Bishop of London, is also located in the City of London. The present building, designed by famous 17th century architect Christopher Wren, was completed in 1708. The Millennium Bridge, a modern pedestrian bridge, spans the Thames in direct view of St Paul's Cathedral. Other landmarks within the City of London include Old Bailey, the criminal courthouse, and St Mary-le-Bow Church, famous because people born within earshot of its bells can consider themselves a true Cockney

Leaving the City of London, we enter the City of Westminster. In medieval times, the City of Westminster was just a village. Today however, it contains the seat of government, with the Palace of Westminster, which is the British Parliament Building, as well as other government offices located here. Also within the City of Westminster is Buckingham Palace, residence of the Queen, and 10 Downing Street, residence of the Prime Minister.

There are plenty of tourist attractions here. The most important public place in London is Trafalgar Square. A short distance away is Charing Cross, regarded as the very centre of London. From Trafalgar Square, we can admire Nelson's Column, and then visit the National Gallery. Close by is St Martin-in-the-Fields, an Anglican church and landmark. On the otherside of Trafalgar Square is the Admiralty Arch, through which leads the processional promenade, called the Mall, heading towards Buckingham Palace.

Within the vicinity of Buckingham Palace are more tourist attractions. Right in front of it is Victorial Memorial, erected in memory of Queen Victoria. Other royal residences nearby include St James's Palace and Clarence House.

There are many royal parks in London. Along the Mall, we see St James's Park. Beyond it is the Horse Guards Parade Building, with London Eye, one of the biggest Ferris Wheels in the world, partially visible from across the River Thames. From St James's Park, the parkland continues unbroken westwards, through Green Park and Queen's Garden in front of Buckingham Palace, through Buckingham Palace Garden into Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.

There are many tourist attractions in Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. Exploring them alone will take a few hours, or even the whole day. On the northeastern corner of Hyde Park is the Marble Arch and Speakers' Corner. Closer to the southwestern edge of Hyde Park is the Princess of Wales Memorial, dedicated to Princess Diana. It is located south of the Serpentine Lake and opened in 2004.

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea is an affluent residential community, and home to several noted museums and shopping districts. Among the museums include the Natural History Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Science Museum. Royal Albert Hall and Albert Memorial, both constructed in memory of Prince Albert, Queen Victoria's beloved consort, are also located here. They are on either sides of Knightbridge. At the junction of Knightsbridge and Brompton Road is one of the most famous department stores in the world, Harrods.

What we have covered is just a small selection of tourist attractions of London. There are many more sights waiting your discovery. Visit EarthDocumentary to browse a greater selection of London Tourist Attractions. There is also a point-and-click map to facilitate your exploration. Enjoy your tour!

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Timothy Tye explores and documents the tourist attractions of the world in his travel website, EarthDocumentary. To discover London's tourist attractions in detail, visit EarthDocumentary London, www.earthdocumentary.com/london.htm

By: Sam Rabinow

There are way too many different reasons to visit Texas for me to list here, but once you get here I can help you with a few ideas that are guaranteed to be fun for everyone.

Visit a Theme Park: Six Flags over Texas
If you are going to be in the Dallas Texas area then take a short drive and visit the Six Flags Amusement park in Arlington Texas. The park offers something for everyone. If you are looking to take you young ones on some bumper cars and maybe even the merry go round you will have several to choose from, and of the older kids want to have a heart pounding, adrenalin racing experience this park offers many of them as well. The park is open from March to January. Check the internet for the exact times.

San Antonio
If you are going to be in the San Antonio area and are looking for a day of thrills and shrills you may want to check out Six Flags Fiesta Texas. Besides all the rides you would expect to see here plus this park has some exclusive rides like the Goliath and the Boomerang, but, be warned these are fast moving rides.

Maybe you are interested in seeing some real Authentic Texas Cowboy Style Fun
Rodeo:
If you are looking to see some of the biggest and most popular rodeos in Texas, then you want to come to the Fort Worth area in the early months of the year. These rodeos show are the perfect example of Texas's 3 R's ropin', ridin' and rodeoin'. These events were originally used for the ranch boss to test the skills of his employees. Now they are used to entertain folks from all over. Rodeos have become so popular some of the events can even be watched around the globe on Television.

Working on the Dude Ranch:
Maybe for you it is not about watching the Rodeo, its abut being the Cowboy. If this is the case you have to check out a dude ranch. You can learn to rope a cow and ride with the herd. You can also sit around the campfire and eat of the chuck wagon in the great Texas wilderness.

While the boys are off acting manly, here is a bit about the Shopping Texas has to offer.
As the old cliché goes "Everything is Bigger in Texas" this is true about their malls and Outlet centers. Texas offers you every big name store from Neiman Marcus to Sears and many small Mom and Pop shops that cater to all your gift needs.

Looking to Spend a Few Days of Fun in the Sun
Texas has over 600 miles of coast, on the always warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Some of the countries most beautiful beaches can be found there. They offer everything from daily groomed sand to fully equipped playgrounds for the kids, and if eating sand filled sandwiches is not sounding appealing to you there are many food and beverage stands for you to choose from offering pizza, burgers and many of your favorite foods.

Find a Place to Stay
Texas is a very large state and has many attractions all over the state to visit, ad for this reason you can find many places to sleep for a few nights and one of Texas's many camping sites where you can sleep outside under the stars of in a wide variety of hotels varying in price per night.

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Sam Rabinow left School after winning big money playing progressive slots machines in an online casino last year. Now he freelance reviews casinos for fun as he travels the world.

By: Rajendra Sharma

India is a cultural cauldron when it comes to various communities and it is only in this country that one can find a perfect blend of various religions, castes, cultures and beliefs co-existing in harmony. Every state boosts of its unique features and the visitor gets a taste of the unique hospitality of different states as he moves from one corner of India to the other. One such state that is full of hospitality and warmth is the colorful land of Rajasthan. It is home to the warrior princes of India and till date it has upheld the cultural values and the tourist gets a complete taste of this hospitality when he steps into the land of the Rajputs. If you have decided to visit this royal state of Rajasthan, it is best to plan out your itinerary well in advance and get the best out of the planned Rajasthan cultural tours.

Rajasthan cultural tours can offer a wide variety of entertainment option for the visitor and there is something in it for everyone. Places like Pushkar in Rajasthan are home to many temples and this place also has the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in India. The religious individuals can very well visit this pilgrimage place and cleanse their souls. While those of us who are more of the adventurous sorts, can opt for a night safari in the forests of Ranthambore. Rajasthan cultural tours also offer a peek into the various festivals celebrated in north India like the famous cattle fairs and camel fairs. Millions throng to a cit holding this kind of a fair and indulge not only in the sale and purchase of cattle but also full heartedly participate in the fun activities and games typical to any fair of rural India.

Some of the cities of Rajasthan are popular for their artisanship and their clothes. The pink city of Jaipur is popular for its stock of precious and semi precious gemstones and if you are visiting the city for its cultural heritage of forts and palaces, you might as well carry home the gems as well. The tie and dye art of the state is very popular among people from other parts of India as well as across the globe. So if you are in Rajasthan for a cultural tour, make sure you carry back clothing in bandhni prints and designs that reflect the culture of the state.

Another important aspect of any of your Rajasthan cultural tours would be the lively music and dance of the local people. Rajasthani folk music is very popular due to its lively nature and it is sure top war the cockles of your heart if you take the effort to slow down your pace and listen to the songs of the land. The colorful attire of the performers and the traditional dance of Rajasthan are sure to win you over completely whenever you have the good fortune of witnessing such a performance on your Rajasthan cultural tours. Select a good travel agent, book your travel, accommodation, and schedule for your trip to Rajasthan well in advance so that you are not disappointed due to the heavy rush of tourists during a particular time.

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Rajendra Sharma is a renowned travelogue and has been dealing with travel guides. Know more about Pushkar, Pushkar temple, Pushkar travel, Pushkar festivals, Pushkar camel fair, Rajasthan cultural tour, Hotels in Jaipur you can visit www.pushkarresorts.com

By: david

Planning that perfect trip with that special someone? Want to impress her and sweep her off of her feet with your impressive display of romance?

Then spend a day in the Big Apple. The lights and luxury that the city offers will definitely make an impression your special person. These are some of the best and most romantic places you can take her. She'll be impressed by your knowledge of New York's history, by your culture, and your choice of some hidden and some not-so-hidden romantic scenes, not to mention the limousine that you two will relaxing in between each romantic spot.

Brooklyn Bridge, which has been a landmark in New York City since 1883, is a nice place to spend some time seeing the views of New York City with that special someone. Get up in the morning to walk along the bridge and to get a bird's eye view of the city. There are two different pedestrian walk ways to take. There is one on the same level as the vehicle route or you can take the other walk way that is above the vehicle level. The higher-leveled one is the better one to see the best view of the city.

Central Park is full of hidden nooks and crannies that exude little romantic escapes. Central Park is made up of 843 acres of land waiting to be explored and delved into. Now nearly 150 years old, Central Park is a park for all.  Many families can be found here having a picnic, playing frisbee, throwing a football or simply relaxing. Or you can find young adults going for a run, taking a nap on a blanket or just breathing in the fresh air while reading a good book. And there are plenty of both old and young lovers around - taking a walk on one of the many trails, sitting side by side another on a bench, or just enjoying the company of the other. Whether, it's a sweet romantic picnic on the grass or just a romantic walk in the park, there's a variety of things you can do to wow your special someone when you're in Central Park.

The Cloister is a museum surrounded by beautiful gardens and the Fort Tryon Park.  This museum contains many collections of European medieval art in a restored cloister, which was built from other destroyed cloisters throughout France. Exploring these beautifully old and romantic artworks and then strolling through the gardens, which were grown and are now maintained by the instructions of old medieval texts from cloisters, are unusually romantic activities to experience while with your special love.

The Empire State Building (ESB) is a perfect spot to end your romantic day.  Standing atop this 106-story building with views that are unparalleled is a one of a kind of experience for all who have the opportunity to fully enjoy it. There are two observatories in the ESB, one on the 86th floor and the other on the 106th floor. The observatories are open every day of the year and stay open until two in the morning. Therefore, you have plenty of time during the day to take it nice, relaxing and slow - no need to rush to get to either of the ESB's observatories. And end the night with an amazing view from the ESB while eating at one of the many restaurants that are in the building.

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By: Sammy Maseko

On the big island of Hawaii you will find diversity in the geography ranging from beaches to volcanoes. You will find miles and miles of undeveloped land as well as bustling urban development in cities like Kailua -Kona. Hilo, which is located on the windy side of the island, gets a lot of rainfall. This contributes to the lush green landscaping of this side of the island making Hilo an interesting sight and a must see on the list of destinations.

There is a stretch of Highway 137 dubbed Red Road that is also worth visiting. There is a canopy of Milo and Hala trees that have intertwined to form a sort of a tunnel effect.

Who would have thought that horseback riding would be on the list of activities for a Hawaiian vacation? Well, actually there is a huge ranch called the Dahana Ranch Roughriders in Waimea. It's owned and operated by a native Hawaiian family and is still a working cattle ranch. The ranch raises and breeds, and trains cattle and horses. There are also some excellent cycling opportunities here in Waimea as the terrain is full of rolling hills.

The island of Maui hosts the Maui Ocean Center, which is the largest tropical aquarium in the United States. Maui is also a good place to windsurf, and has tons of different waterfalls. The resort area of Ka'anapali is located on the western coast of Maui, and is home to the island's best golf courses. This is where you will find the large high-rise resorts. They have plenty of pools for the kids to swim in. The beach here, however, is not quite as kid friendly as Wakiki Beach. The rip currents can be strong and Maui is much windier that Honolulu. The calmer beach at Kihei, might be a little more kid friendly.

To Italy

During your vacation to Italy you will find that there is something to suit everyone's needs. However to completely experience Italy on your vacation it is recommended that you stay at a small bed and breakfast if you can. Most of these are family run and you will hear all kinds of stories, folklore and little known facts that may not be in any of the guide books you may have with you on your Italy vacation. Some of the bed and breakfasts will even offer you a price to include a roundtrip ticket from London.

If you are visiting Florence, you should consider staying at a place called The Artist's Residence. Florence is the seat of Italy's artistic soul and this bed and breakfast is the perfect place to experience the renaissance. It is in the middle of old Florence and is furnished with 19th century sculptures created by Giovanni Dupre. The present owners of the bed and breakfast are his descendants. You will find original florentino tiled floors and even the bar counter was a confessional from 1500AD. Some bedrooms have terraces and you may be able to see the courtyard gardens from your terrace. Breakfast here is also said to be excellent and there are numerous restaurants close by to choose from for your other meals. There are 45 air-conditioned rooms here and also a gym and a solarium. This hotel also provides access to the internet if you cannot go without it on your Italy vacation.

You could always find out from your Credit Card Company or bank if their cards can be used worldwide before you leave for your vacation to Italy. Most businesses accept major credit cards in Italy and you should always look for the credit card signage stickers on doors of shops just like there are in the US. Travelers' checks are also widely accepted in the major cities.

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By: Ivan Cuxeva

Florida is world famous for its' fabulous coastline and spectacular beaches. But when visiting Florida which beaches are absolutely "do not miss" fantastic? Well, with so many to choose from, any vacationer is spoilt for choice. Did you know that if you walked just one mile of Florida beachfront every day, it would take you two and a half years to get around the entire state!

So where does a vacationer start? Well how about the Panhandle area and heading south along the west Coast? The Panhandle part of the Florida is also known as the Emerald Coast. There are 10 beaches of note in the Pensacola region, most notably Perdido Key. This barrier island is part of the Gulf Island National Seashore and is just west of Pensacola. Dr Stephen P Leatherman, better known as Dr Beach, has consistently classed Perdido Key within the top 20 beaches in the US.

Just East of the Pensacola region is the famous resort area of Fort Walton and Destin. Twenty-four miles of white, powdery beaches and crystal blue waters add to the outstanding natural beauty of the area. In fact the beaches are so breathtaking that Southern Living Magazine ranked them "Best Beach in the South" and the "Top Family Destination." A perfect spot for a family friendly vacation.

How about heading a little further southeast to Panama City? The area is also known as the "Wreck Capital of the South," so is a great choice for divers. There are many historic wrecks in the offshore waters just waiting to be explored plus 27 miles of white sandy beaches for swimming, snorkeling, shelling, boating and fishing.

Let's now head down further south and explore the west coast, otherwise known as the Gulf Coast. An absolute must is Fort De Soto Park, which is part of the St Petersburg/

Clearwater area. Ranked as the Number 1 Beach in 2005 in the entire US by Dr Beach, the entire park area covers 900 acres with the area crowned by 7 miles of unspoilt beach.

When visiting the Gulf Coast, no trip is complete without a stop in the Sarasota and Bradenton area. With 21 beaches of note in the area, it was a close call but judges in the "Great International White Sand Beach Challenge" announced in 1987 that Siesta Beach had the "finest and whitest sand in the world". This world famous sand is 99% quartz and is snow-white and feathery-soft.

Heading further south, any vacationer, especially a honeymooner, must stop at Lover's Key State Park, situated between Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Beach. With 2 miles of pristine sand, teeming with wildlife and nature trails through the park, this really is a quiet spot to savor. Ranked 4th best beach in the Florida by the Travel Channel on the cable network, you can even get married here on the beach at sunset if you so wish.

And so we reach the furthest point south before heading into the Everglades – Naples and Marco Island; also known as the Paradise Coast. If you want glamour head for Naples Municipal Beach and Pier. Fronted with multi-million dollar mansions, this is a piece of the highlife for free. If you are looking for something a little more secluded, visit Barefoot Beach Preserve by Bonita Springs. It's a little known 342-acre park with just over 1 mile of natural beach. It is tucked away in a million dollar gated community but is open daily to the public.

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By: Benicio Brown

Greatest small city in the world - Europe has many beautiful tourist destinations. However, it is absolutely undeniable that by far, Amsterdam is one of the best. The population of 735000 is proud of this 'greatest of small cities in the world'. There is the world famous canal system to explore and the fantastic personification of tolerance and diversity that is synonymous with the romantic and beautiful city of Amsterdam. A trip along the canals is a must for every lover of architecture. The city is also known for soft drugs and prostitution. Amsterdam ably competes with cities like London, Paris and Milan. However, in comparison, the city has more to offer for less.

Amsterdam caters to every tourist's needs. There is the presence of a unique culture, exquisite nightlife, amazing lodging options for every budget, great transport connectivity and the authentic bike experience. The beautiful weather all year round has made this jewel of The Netherlands a popular tourist destination for travelers from all over the world. Among the popular tourist attractions in the city are the museums, canals, coffee-shops and the water taxis.

Tourist attractions - The Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk and the Van Gogh Museums are very popular. Amsterdam has over fifty museums! The coffee shops in Holland or The Netherlands are an amusing sight because they not only sell small amounts of cannabis, but are also regulated! The coffee shops are not allowed to cater to anyone under-18 and beyond 5g. The city flaunts over three hundred options in accommodation that have been categorized as the best money can buy.

Amsterdam travel routes - Amsterdam offers good provisions for dedicated cyclists, such as bike paths and racks. There are an estimated one million bicycles in the city. Public transport in Amsterdam is available in the form of bus and tram lines. There are also water taxis and a water bus. There are dedicated canal cruises that enable tourists to explore the Amsterdam's waterways.

Visitors come to the beautiful city of Amsterdam for its reputation of being a liberal city. The city offers visitors a charm that is emphasised by elegant houses and the ever-enchanting canals. The popular Anne Frankd House is a 'must-see' in Amsterdam. The people are known to be very warm and welcoming and very accommodating.

Amsterdam lodging options - Amsterdam has a number of lodging options for tourists. There are luxurious hotels and budgeted ones too, to cater to the need of both, leisure and business travelers. There are popular youth hostels all over the city. These offer single accommodation at very cost effective prices. The lodging in Amsterdam includes meals and sight seeing options, depending on whether you are a walk-in customer or a guest with prior booking and arrangements.

Some of the lodging options worth considering in Amsterdam include:

The Park Plaza Victoria Hotel: Across the Amsterdam Central Sation, very near Dam Square, this fantastic lodging options offers double rooms from 66 pounds onwards. The hotel is known to offer discounts as much as 63%. The hotel keeps offering special rates to attract tourists and list among the favorite options offered by travel agents, the world over.

Hotel City Garden: Located in the heart of this beautiful city, the hotel offers double rooms from 39 pounds onwards. The amentities are among the best and it is conveniently located for business travellers. The warm and cozy hotel promises tourists a near-home experience.

NH Center Amsterdam: This stately lodging option is next to the Vondel Park, near Leidse Square and Museum Square. The tariff offers double rooms from 71 pounds onwards.

Amsterdam hotels and accommodation can be accessed via the dedicated websites of the hotels and travel agents. You can choose from luxurious accommodation in Amsterdam, to a cheap and cost effective budget hotel or even a Schiphol or airport hotel.

The best approach:

This "Venice of the North" attracts travelers from all over the world. Amsterdam has evolved into a meeting ground for various cultures and sub-cultures. The city has people from different backgrounds living together within a distinct urban environment. The lodging options at Amsterdam can be accessed online via dedicated online resources, however, a little prior research and comparison helps a lot. It pays to reserve and plan your holiday in this beautiful city.

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As you can read in the article, there are many lodging options in Amsterdam, among them Amsterdam hotels. You can visit amsterdamhotels.me.uk

By: Ani Razale

For those who have not set foot in Langkawi in a while, and are planning for great culinary adventure on the island, you are in for a treat.

Make yourselves welcome at Pantai Tengah, just south of Pantai Cenang, at the south-west tip of main island of Langkawi. Pantai Tengah today now hosts trendy, unique up-and-coming restaurants and bars.

The night is always young in this district. When asked "Where can I go for a great dinner?", or "What can I do later tonight?" the answer just might be "Head to Pantai Tengah".

And off with a steady piece of this action is Sungroup of Langkawi (http://www.sungroup-langkawi.com), boasting the best and trendiest eatery and bars ever to hit this island. An enticing variety of restaurants under this chain is Sun Café, Matahari Malay Restaurant, Sunvillage Grill and Sunsutra. For a night of lounging or chilling, head to Sunba Retro Bar or Sunkarma Chillout Lounge.

And let's not forget other remarkable establishments under the Sungroup chain. There is the very beautiful and secluded boutique resort Sunset Beach Resort, aside from the Sunflower Handicrafts Shop for you to peruse for that souvenir to take home.

Let's check out their individual styles and identity.

All Day Dining at Sun Café - http://www.sungroup-langkawi.com/suncafe

Sun Café will become your favorite place to have great food all day everyday. Boasting (and quite frankly, tales have been told) of great service and atmosphere, the truth lies not far behind. Indeed, Sun Café has a casual feel about it, allowing you to be comfortable in shorts and flip-flops. The selection of dishes is superb, both in presentation and taste – and does not choke you budget-wise.

Have a try of their house specialty, the Grilled Fillet of Barracuda. The sweet and lemony taste of the grilled Barracuda atop sautéed spinach and cream sauce is simply delicious with potato gratin at the side. To finish off the meal, try the succulent and creamy Crème Brulee for dessert. You won't be disappointed.

Another unique feature to Sun Cafe is its open-air concept for a restroom area. Within a short distance, along a nicely landscaped walkway, you will get to see and utilize this amazing his-hers toilets overlooking the same glass pond. You might ask, "How is that possible?". It is possible, and it is an out of this world experience!

Tasting Tradition at Matahari Malay Restaurant - http://www.sungroup-langkawi.com/matahari

This is Sungroup's award-winning restaurant, serving authentic Malay cooking by local kampung (read: village) ladies. A favorite Langkawi eatery for foreign and local tourists, you will experience a blend of local herbs and spices in their specialty platter called Nasi Campur Kampung. The selection of dishes in this platter is delicious, and might even be a new experience for Malaysian or regional guests.

This restaurant is set in an amazing landscaped property, along with its sibling restaurant, the Sunvillage Grill.

'It's So Fresh!' Seafood at Sunvillage Grill Restaurant - http://www.sungroup-langkawi.com/sunvillage

Famous for its freshly caught seafood, this restaurant offers guests outdoor patio dining or under a large gazebo. The variety of dishes and accompaniment is scrumptious and very tasty, and are prepared made to your order. If seafood isn't your choice of 'meat', try the chicken and beef tenderloin dishes. They look so mouth-watering, accompanied with vegetables and potato salad.

Repeat customers have returned to enjoy more of what this delectable eatery has to offer. Open from 6.00pm to midnight, every night, your Langkawi dining experience is sure to be a satisfying and full one.

Sunsutra's Unique Dining Experience - http://www.sungroup-langkawi.com/sunsutra

A unique restaurant, reviewed as avant-garde for its cuisine and settings, Sunsutra offers a great atmosphere for dining. Open from 6pm to midnight, this restaurant is where you should head for a delectable 3-course meal. Be comfortable in its open-air concept restaurant, where you might even sit in a table and look up to see stars in a clear night sky.

Dishes are competitively priced, with acceptable portions that are superbly presented. Sunsutra claims the best dessert experience you can ever imagine – their Chocolate Lava Cake. With a warm, melted chocolate core in chocolate cake, this is the dessert that will make you come back for more.

Fun, Adventurous Night at Sunba Retro Bar - http://www.sungroup-langkawi.com/sunba

They claim, the night is still young when you come through Sunba's rustic doors. Oh Boy, you are in for an adventure! The staff is so friendly, so engaging; you'll feel right at home and come by again the next evening.

There's lively retro (the 60s to the 80s) music played by the resident DJ and when you're in at the right time, a live local band will groove you with raw musical talent. Sunba Retro Bar isn't just hailed to be a favorite place to head after dinner, it simply IS the place to be!

Friends gather together for drinks, have fun, relax and unwind. The pool table seems to be a popular retreat for some 'Let's Beat 'Em' healthy games and the bar is so inviting, you'll want to sit there and lounge all night. Another great feature of Sunba, the interior resembles old Malay traditional village houses from yesteryears, even the décor of its restrooms. You'll be struck by its contrast to the fun you'll experience within Sunba's walls.

Chilling Out at Sunkarma - http://www.sungroup-langkawi.com/sunkarma

Music in the background: Modern chill-out music. Choice of décor, furniture and artwork: Modern and contemporary. Initial reaction: Cool and amazing hangout place!

This chill-out bar is the place to head for a night to unwind and relax with friends. Come over for great conversation and drinks, be it coffee or wine, and enjoy it outdoors at the patio area or indoors at the cool black sofas or the bar. Sunkarma will become a favorite place of yours to unwind till midnight.

Privacy, Seclusion and Beauty at Sunset Beach Resort - http://www.sungroup-langkawi.com/sunset

If you are returning to Langkawi for holiday or vacation, forget checking into those 5-star resorts or hotels. Opt for a more 'Closer to Home' environment. A place you won't feel like just an ordinary hotel guest.

Instead, choose the intimate setting of Sunset Beach Resort in Pantai Tengah. The moment you arrive, the reception staff will make you feel so welcome, you'll be smiling with anticipation of your entire stay. You'll feel like part of the family already.

You'll have a lovely stretch of private, secluded beach to lounge and enjoy the Andaman Sea. A great complimentary breakfast is made for your day, available from 8 to 11am. And housekeeping will be a great service to you, making your stay a cherished occasion.

Enjoy the public open-air concept loo and shower area. You'll be captivated by its artful design and style. In fact, the whole compound is captivating – lush tropical trees with fragrant flowers, winding walkways, and lotus ponds – a tropical paradise! You will never regret a minute of your stay, and will surely hope to return once you head home.

For That Special Souvenir to Take Home - http://www.sungroup-langkawi.com/sunflower

Saving the best for last, a visit to Sunflower Handicrafts Shop is a must. You will find two of these sibling shops at Sunmall area (next to Sun Café) and at the Sunvillage compound. Open from 3pm till midnight, you'll have ample time to walk along the shop aisles for a special gift to bring home.

Sunflower Handicrafts at Sunvillage is housed in a traditional wooden structure. So, true to its exterior, the objects found within follow the same natural flow. Wood carvings and masks, lovely fabric of throws and cushion covers, diningware and cutleries are items to be found. Incense is a popular item, and can be found in soothing scents like Sandalwood, Rose and Frangipani.

Sunflower Handicrafts at Sunmall has a more contemporary, modern look and feel to it. Bright colors lure you in, and the crafts you'll find are very modern and exotic. There's silver, pearl, glass, bamboo, wood – objects can be miniscule in size, or up to art that will be checked onboard as an oversized item.

Whichever Sunflower outlet you visit, you will find that special souvenir you just have to bring home. A remembrance of your long-awaited trip to Langkawi.

For more information on Sungroup of Langkawi, please visit http://www.sungroup-langkawi.com.

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Sungroup of Langkawi (www.sungroup-langkawi.com">www.sungroup-langkawi.com ) is located in Pantai Tengah, Langkawi island in north-western region of Peninsula Malaysia.

By: Tim Tye

Trafalgar Square is a famous place in London with plenty of tourist attractions all around it. In this article we explore the tourist attractions around Trafalgar Square and get to know them.

Trafalgar Square was created to commemorate the Battle of Trafalgar, a British naval victory in the Napoleonic Wars in 1805. Trafalgar Square was originally intended to be called the King William VI Square. However architect George Ledwell Taylor suggested the name Trafalgar Square.
The architecture around Trafalgar Square dates to between 1820 and 1845, when the Prince Region engaged John Nash, the imminent landscape architect, to redevelop the area. The project became known as the Charing Cross Improvement Scheme. The architecture of the square was the work of Sir Charles Barry, and was completed in 1845.

Trafalgar Square consists of a big public area bordered by roads. The roads that lead into Trafalgar Square or are within its vicinity include Whitehall, Northumberland Avenue, The Strand, Charing Cross Road, Haymarket, Pall Mall and The Mall. Also within the area are Trafalgar Square road and Cockspur Street.

The point where the Strand meets Whitehall was the original location of the Charing Cross. This is where the City of London meets the City of Westminster, and is accepted as the very heart of London. From here all distances are measured.

Exploring Trafalgar Square in clockwise fashion beginning from the north, we see the stairs that lead up to the National Gallery. The National Gallery began when the British government bought 36 paintings from banker John Julius Angerstain in 1824. From that minuscule collection, the National Gallery today houses over 2,300 paintings dating from the mid-13th century to 1900. Two thirds of the collection comes from donation. The collect is small compared to national galleries of continental Europe, however, it has important works with a broad historical representation, covering Early Renaissance to Post-Impressionism.

The present structure at Trafalgar Square was built in 1832-8. However only the facade is recognizable from the original, with much of the inside having been renovated and expanded. This is the third building to house the National Gallery, and despite the many expansions, is still inadequate.

The site at Trafalgar Square made creating an impressive gallery a challenging task. It cannot be extended in further than one room, as there was a workhouse and a barra