Site of the 1992 Summer Olympic Games, the city of Barcelona is a lesser known but excellent destination for the tourist than some of the more famous Cities of the World. In addition to being a stop for the visitor to Europe or Spain, its location on the Mediterranean coast also makes it a popular destination and departure point for many cruises.
One of the most individual aspects of Barcelona is its homage to hometown architect, Antonio Gaudi (1852-1926). In fact, an appreciation of Gaudi architecture is what brings many visitors to the city.
In the following article, the author, who has business in Barcelona, offers his unique point of view.
============
History of Tourism in Barcelona
By Gaizka Pujana
Because its people attract tourists, it is frequently written about in books, and its locality often described and romanticized.
The founding of the city began with the occupation of the Romans in the First Century B.C, who imposed walls and as a result, for a long period of time, separated villages from the walled area which is actually a part of the city. As of late, the different Catalonian countries united and pushed forward the rise of Barcelona as a tourist capital.
The Olympic Games in 1992 has had a remarkable effect on the city, and it is because of this sports extravaganza that the city has built its heritage around sports. Because of the successful staging of the Olympic Games as the destination city and host, the government was able to promote Barcelona and made it one of the top destinations for travel whether for business or personal time. Together with this rise in tourist visits, Barcelona decided to have a Hotel Plan, where numerous hotels were built to house tourists from all over the world.
Up to this day, Barcelona has a count of 534 hotels with different hotel star ratings. The hotels are categorized under: bread and breakfast, best value, family, luxury, trendy and vacation rentals (tripadvisor.com). This outstanding boost in hotel availability and performance is a direct signifier that the demands of accommodations have steadily increased over the years.
Because booking and travelling has been made easier through online marketing, more and more tourists find it hassle free to confirm reservations over the internet. This has played a big role towards attaining the Record Year for 2011. Since 2005, visitor counts to Barcelona continued to rise (ehotelier.com) and 2010 saw the double digit increase, leading to outstanding performance in 2011.
Together with the contemporary architecture and a unique immersive experience being offered by the city itself, these factors create an overall package for the tourist to remember Barcelona. And because the result of returns depends on the good experiences of a tourist, so does the marketing spread also through shared experiences and word-of-mouth. The combined efforts of tourism authorities, smart campaigning and the local people and their hospitality in bringing more tourists in Barcelona has strengthened the industry in many ways, long since the biggest sports event took place.
Because there is strength in numbers, so do memorable experiences of the city and its activities have when it comes to a unified effort in accommodating tourists well. Barcelona has proven its abilities as the City of Marvels. And she just might bring in more curious visitors over the years to come.
Do not forget that you can save money on your accommodation by renting apartments in Barcelona cheap or cheap apartments Barcelona.
Article Source: History of Tourism in Barcelona
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Friday, March 30, 2012
Restaurant Review: El Paisa - Bedford, Texas
I don't normally eat breakfast at a restaurant, but, as it happens, after having a great breakfast at the Buttermilk Cafe in Arlington, Texas earlier this week, it happened again. My daughter wanted to try out El Paisa, and, since she had an early morning appointment and needed me to drive her, I agreed to try it out with her and my grandson...age 3. His comments will not be included in this report.
I had driven past El Paisa, a dine-in mexican fast-food restaurant, on Harwood Road in Bedford, many times and usually made a mental note to eat there sometime. No real reason, just had an air about it.
The first thing I noticed was how clean and neat the outside was.
Once inside, the lady at the register was very friendly, helpful, and, as my daughter put it on UrbanSpoon, "sweet". She was also very patient as my daughter is visually impaired, my grandson is...ahem...active, and I had no clue what I wanted...and have been without my ADHD meds for several days!
Eventually, my daughter decided to get one of the breakfast plates. She got a breakfast "torta" for her son, and I got a breakfast burrito with egg and bacon, and a cup of coffee.
Seated and looking around, the inside was not new, but still very clean and attractive in a simple, mexican motif manner. The bathroom was good sized and also clean, by the way. There was fairly quiet Hispanic music playing in the background of the restaurant, lighting was good but not intense, and the overall ambiance was comfortable.
El Paisa Dining Area
The food was prepared in what appeared to be a clean kitchen. I have been a restaurant manager and try to look at such things.
One word for servings at El Paisa is "big". The breakfast plate was big, my grandson's breakfast torta was big, as was my burrito. I could have played football with it! They put three eggs in almost everything, by the way.
El Paisa Breakfast Torta
Even the coffee, which was good, by the way, was in a big cup, and the lady offered me a refill for free.
The food was delicious, and my daughter, who knows these things, informed me it was "Mexican" not "Tex-Mex". Having had most of my Mexican food experiences in Texas, I noticed that the food at El Pais in Bedford, TX, reminded me of what I got in Mexican restaurants in California. A bit lighter but still flavorful. Sometimes the food in "Mexican" restaurants, even the ones I really like, overwhelms me. This was good, simple fare and I completely enjoyed the experience.
I will be taking my wife there for a meal in the near future. If you like Mexican food, you might want to visit El Pais in Bedford, Texas.
=====================
CITIES OF THE WORLD
I had driven past El Paisa, a dine-in mexican fast-food restaurant, on Harwood Road in Bedford, many times and usually made a mental note to eat there sometime. No real reason, just had an air about it.
The first thing I noticed was how clean and neat the outside was.
Once inside, the lady at the register was very friendly, helpful, and, as my daughter put it on UrbanSpoon, "sweet". She was also very patient as my daughter is visually impaired, my grandson is...ahem...active, and I had no clue what I wanted...and have been without my ADHD meds for several days!
Eventually, my daughter decided to get one of the breakfast plates. She got a breakfast "torta" for her son, and I got a breakfast burrito with egg and bacon, and a cup of coffee.
Seated and looking around, the inside was not new, but still very clean and attractive in a simple, mexican motif manner. The bathroom was good sized and also clean, by the way. There was fairly quiet Hispanic music playing in the background of the restaurant, lighting was good but not intense, and the overall ambiance was comfortable.
El Paisa Dining Area
The food was prepared in what appeared to be a clean kitchen. I have been a restaurant manager and try to look at such things.
One word for servings at El Paisa is "big". The breakfast plate was big, my grandson's breakfast torta was big, as was my burrito. I could have played football with it! They put three eggs in almost everything, by the way.
El Paisa Breakfast Torta
Even the coffee, which was good, by the way, was in a big cup, and the lady offered me a refill for free.
The food was delicious, and my daughter, who knows these things, informed me it was "Mexican" not "Tex-Mex". Having had most of my Mexican food experiences in Texas, I noticed that the food at El Pais in Bedford, TX, reminded me of what I got in Mexican restaurants in California. A bit lighter but still flavorful. Sometimes the food in "Mexican" restaurants, even the ones I really like, overwhelms me. This was good, simple fare and I completely enjoyed the experience.
I will be taking my wife there for a meal in the near future. If you like Mexican food, you might want to visit El Pais in Bedford, Texas.
=====================
CITIES OF THE WORLD
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Restaurant Review: Buttermilk Cafe - Artlington, Texas
When you travel you eat, and, since you often eat at restaurants which you know nothing about, I have decided to include the occasional restaurant review on my travel blog.
At the moment, my own abilitiy to travel is curtailed due to some personal and family health issues, but that will change in a few months. As it is, my wife and I don't get out much except for the common errands, and don't eat out a whole lot, and, when we do, it is usually at a few favorite restaurants.
One of these favorites for the last year has been the Buttermilk Cafe on Pipeline Road in Hurst, Texas. A down-home sort of place, which reminded us of another favorite, Lil' Tex, in Copperas Cove, Texas, it was popular with the locals (of which we are now a part), served hearty, if not gourmet, American food, in large portions with good-ol-gal hospitality from the waitresses.
I love having a sweet waitress, young or old, call me "Honey" or "Darlin" (no "g"), or even "Sweetheart", by the way.
Anyway, a family task took us down into Arlington early yesterday morning, and we decided to stop in and have breakfast at the newly opened Buttermilk Cafe in Arlington, Texas, just a hop, skip, and jump South on Collins from Cowboy Stadium.
We were greeted warmly by the waitstaff, and our waitress, Kaylee, made sure we were taken care of, including starting a new pot of coffee for me.
To be honest, when I write about a restaurant, I have to admit that I do not know a whole lot about how food should be prepared...or taste. Oh sure, I can tell when it tastes okay to me, but I spent 21 years in the military, dining happily off messhall food, C-Rations, and MRE's.
So, other than saying the food looked and tasted good, I'm not going to say any more on preparation, appearance, and taste.
Hey! It was the Sampler with eggs, all the meats, grits and toast! Basic breakfast. However, it was hot, it tasted great (to me...Mr. Dead Tastebuds), and it was served quickly by an attentive Kaylee, who also kept my coffee cup filled. Diners at other tables and booths seemed to be getting fast and friendly service as well, by the way.
What more could I ask?
My wife, who does recognize good food, ordered a greek omelet with biscuits and gravy and assures me that everything was excellent, except that the biscuits, which were supposed to be soaked in gravy anyway, were a tiny bit hard for her liking.
The portions were even more than we normally get at the Buttermilk Cafe in Hurst, and, for once, even I could not finish....our dog got a treat.
A few weeks earlier, we had introduced one of our daughters, the gourmand and would-be gourmet cook, not the one who is a parole officer, to the Buttermilk Cafe in Hurst, and she is hooked. We intend to introduce both of them to the Buttermilk Cafe in Arlington.
We do heartily recommend the Buttemilk Cafe in Arlington (817-459-4477), at 404 North Collins St., Arlington, Texas 76011. They serve a basic American menu, have daily specials, and don't hold back on the portions. The food tastes good and the service is excellent.
Visitors to the Arlington, Texas area may want to know that the Buttermilk Care in Arlington is convenient to Six Flags, Cowboy Stadium, and the Texas Ranger's Ballpark. While Six Flags would be a bit of a stretch, a healthy fan could easily walk from the restaurant to a football or baseball game. Although located slight away from "the action" there are many other good restaurants, quality motels, and plenty of shopping of all kinds within a mile or so. To reach I-30, just head north on Collins for a mile or so. Go east on I-30 and south on Highway 360 to get down to I-20.
You "can" reach I-20 by going south on Collins, but you go through a lot of stoplights and neighborhoods.
If this comment entices you to go there, please let them know where you saw this review.
At the moment, my own abilitiy to travel is curtailed due to some personal and family health issues, but that will change in a few months. As it is, my wife and I don't get out much except for the common errands, and don't eat out a whole lot, and, when we do, it is usually at a few favorite restaurants.
One of these favorites for the last year has been the Buttermilk Cafe on Pipeline Road in Hurst, Texas. A down-home sort of place, which reminded us of another favorite, Lil' Tex, in Copperas Cove, Texas, it was popular with the locals (of which we are now a part), served hearty, if not gourmet, American food, in large portions with good-ol-gal hospitality from the waitresses.
I love having a sweet waitress, young or old, call me "Honey" or "Darlin" (no "g"), or even "Sweetheart", by the way.
Anyway, a family task took us down into Arlington early yesterday morning, and we decided to stop in and have breakfast at the newly opened Buttermilk Cafe in Arlington, Texas, just a hop, skip, and jump South on Collins from Cowboy Stadium.
We were greeted warmly by the waitstaff, and our waitress, Kaylee, made sure we were taken care of, including starting a new pot of coffee for me.
To be honest, when I write about a restaurant, I have to admit that I do not know a whole lot about how food should be prepared...or taste. Oh sure, I can tell when it tastes okay to me, but I spent 21 years in the military, dining happily off messhall food, C-Rations, and MRE's.
So, other than saying the food looked and tasted good, I'm not going to say any more on preparation, appearance, and taste.
Hey! It was the Sampler with eggs, all the meats, grits and toast! Basic breakfast. However, it was hot, it tasted great (to me...Mr. Dead Tastebuds), and it was served quickly by an attentive Kaylee, who also kept my coffee cup filled. Diners at other tables and booths seemed to be getting fast and friendly service as well, by the way.
What more could I ask?
My wife, who does recognize good food, ordered a greek omelet with biscuits and gravy and assures me that everything was excellent, except that the biscuits, which were supposed to be soaked in gravy anyway, were a tiny bit hard for her liking.
The portions were even more than we normally get at the Buttermilk Cafe in Hurst, and, for once, even I could not finish....our dog got a treat.
A few weeks earlier, we had introduced one of our daughters, the gourmand and would-be gourmet cook, not the one who is a parole officer, to the Buttermilk Cafe in Hurst, and she is hooked. We intend to introduce both of them to the Buttermilk Cafe in Arlington.
We do heartily recommend the Buttemilk Cafe in Arlington (817-459-4477), at 404 North Collins St., Arlington, Texas 76011. They serve a basic American menu, have daily specials, and don't hold back on the portions. The food tastes good and the service is excellent.
Visitors to the Arlington, Texas area may want to know that the Buttermilk Care in Arlington is convenient to Six Flags, Cowboy Stadium, and the Texas Ranger's Ballpark. While Six Flags would be a bit of a stretch, a healthy fan could easily walk from the restaurant to a football or baseball game. Although located slight away from "the action" there are many other good restaurants, quality motels, and plenty of shopping of all kinds within a mile or so. To reach I-30, just head north on Collins for a mile or so. Go east on I-30 and south on Highway 360 to get down to I-20.
You "can" reach I-20 by going south on Collins, but you go through a lot of stoplights and neighborhoods.
If this comment entices you to go there, please let them know where you saw this review.
Monday, March 26, 2012
Going Where They Don't Speak English? Learn the Language.
I lived in Europe for six years. It wasn't my idea, but Uncle Sam said to do it, so I did....and loved it!
One of the things that made it so great was that before I got stationed to Germany, the army sent me to the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, California to learn German.
I remember two American sitting in a train in Munich, complaining loudly about their visit to Germany because nobody spoke English. Actually, a great many people in Germany, and other European contries, DO speak English, but, often they will not try because of the poor manners and attitudes of many visitors to their country.
On the other hand, I cannot count the number of times that people began smiling and chatting when I revealed that I spoke THEIR language! My ability to speak, read, and write German not only allowed me to enjoy my stay in Germany so much more, but helped me feel almost as if I was in my native land.
If you are going to visit a foreign land, try at least to learn the language, or at least a few key phrases.
=======================
Top 5 Reasons to Learn a Foreign Language Abroad
By Marie Von Schlieben
"I speak English, so I don't have to learn a foreign language..."
If you have thought this more than twice then...welcome! You found the right article to read!
You share your language with approximately 480 million other people around the world. Still, this is just 7 percent of the world's population! There are 6,999 remaining languages after linguists that you've ignored so far. It will take time and effort to learn one of these foreign languages, but it will definitely be worth it as it will have a positive effect on your personal, social and even professional development. Even if English is not your mother tongue, you're still welcome as you will have even greater benefits by learning a second foreign language.
First of all, you probably already have an idea in mind where you would like to go and which language you would like to study. This is great! But then there's this feeling that you aren't 100% convinced yet because you don't know what to tell your parents and your friends and sometimes you even need to convince yourself. Don't worry that's normal, it's called your weaker self and I have it as well. So here comes the ultimate list to convince you to have a serious talk with the lazy person living inside of you:
1.) Experience a new culture by fully immersing yourself
By choosing to learn Spanish for example in Latin America instead of doing a course in your hometown you've already made the right choice regarding two important points. First, you will learn the language a lot faster in the country where it's spoken because you are constantly surrounded by it. Secondly, you will experience cultural differences such as traditions, foods and special customs by living in this place. Even though it is for a short time period you adapt to the daily life which allows you to get a more distinct point of view.
2.) Travel and see new places
Once you get out of your comfort zone you get excited, nervous sometimes even a bit scared and this is exactly what makes you develop personally. Only if we leave our comfort zone from time to time are we able to learn and develop. A new place, people you don't know and things you are not used to, will help you to broad your horizons. Without even mentioning all these beautiful places that you will discover on day or weekend trips during your stay abroad.
3.) Make new friends
When you arrive at the language school you chose to study at, there will be a bunch of other people from all over the world that are there for the exact same reason as you are. They all left their home countries in order to experience something new so it is super easy to get to know them. Staying in your hometown would mean that you would completely miss the opportunity to meet these people from all over the world.
4.) Gain a useful skill
Yes, it's true. Today every boss will tell you that it is important to speak a foreign language. Why? Because we live in a globalized world. If you want to make yourself more competitive in the labour market, language skills always help and open doors to job opportunities world-wide. Furthermore, leaving your home country and going abroad is a challenge in many ways. You will not only come back having learnt a foreign language but you will have also trained your memory, increased your self-discipline and have gained more confidence by interacting with others.
5.) Support the local community
The prices for language courses abroad are usually lower than taking classes in your home country and by studying abroad you help the local economy to grow. The school pays the taxes and the salaries of the local teachers and organizes day trips with local guides as well as offers family stays or other kinds of accommodation. This provides an added income for these families so even your stay even has a positive impact on others. With this tourist driven financial support many communities ensure their economic stability.
Whenever or wherever you want to go abroad, learning a foreign language will help you in many ways. If you want to travel a country it enables you to get in touch with the locals, if you want to read foreign literature in its original version it allows you to understand the linguistic niceties of the native language of the author (same thing for movies).
Sharing fun moments with the other students, seeing new places and getting out of your daily routine is a great and a unique experience that you should not miss out on!
Aside from Spanish courses in Spain and Latin America, do you know other places that are popular to learn a foreign language? What are the benefits that you consider when going to study abroad?
Marie von Schlieben is currently living in Spain and knows a lot about Language Travel, more of her articles can be found at her Blog about Spanish & Latin American culture and history.
Article Source: Top 5 Reasons to Learn a Foreign Language Abroad
One of the things that made it so great was that before I got stationed to Germany, the army sent me to the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, California to learn German.
I remember two American sitting in a train in Munich, complaining loudly about their visit to Germany because nobody spoke English. Actually, a great many people in Germany, and other European contries, DO speak English, but, often they will not try because of the poor manners and attitudes of many visitors to their country.
On the other hand, I cannot count the number of times that people began smiling and chatting when I revealed that I spoke THEIR language! My ability to speak, read, and write German not only allowed me to enjoy my stay in Germany so much more, but helped me feel almost as if I was in my native land.
If you are going to visit a foreign land, try at least to learn the language, or at least a few key phrases.
=======================
Top 5 Reasons to Learn a Foreign Language Abroad
By Marie Von Schlieben
"I speak English, so I don't have to learn a foreign language..."
If you have thought this more than twice then...welcome! You found the right article to read!
You share your language with approximately 480 million other people around the world. Still, this is just 7 percent of the world's population! There are 6,999 remaining languages after linguists that you've ignored so far. It will take time and effort to learn one of these foreign languages, but it will definitely be worth it as it will have a positive effect on your personal, social and even professional development. Even if English is not your mother tongue, you're still welcome as you will have even greater benefits by learning a second foreign language.
First of all, you probably already have an idea in mind where you would like to go and which language you would like to study. This is great! But then there's this feeling that you aren't 100% convinced yet because you don't know what to tell your parents and your friends and sometimes you even need to convince yourself. Don't worry that's normal, it's called your weaker self and I have it as well. So here comes the ultimate list to convince you to have a serious talk with the lazy person living inside of you:
1.) Experience a new culture by fully immersing yourself
By choosing to learn Spanish for example in Latin America instead of doing a course in your hometown you've already made the right choice regarding two important points. First, you will learn the language a lot faster in the country where it's spoken because you are constantly surrounded by it. Secondly, you will experience cultural differences such as traditions, foods and special customs by living in this place. Even though it is for a short time period you adapt to the daily life which allows you to get a more distinct point of view.
2.) Travel and see new places
Once you get out of your comfort zone you get excited, nervous sometimes even a bit scared and this is exactly what makes you develop personally. Only if we leave our comfort zone from time to time are we able to learn and develop. A new place, people you don't know and things you are not used to, will help you to broad your horizons. Without even mentioning all these beautiful places that you will discover on day or weekend trips during your stay abroad.
3.) Make new friends
When you arrive at the language school you chose to study at, there will be a bunch of other people from all over the world that are there for the exact same reason as you are. They all left their home countries in order to experience something new so it is super easy to get to know them. Staying in your hometown would mean that you would completely miss the opportunity to meet these people from all over the world.
4.) Gain a useful skill
Yes, it's true. Today every boss will tell you that it is important to speak a foreign language. Why? Because we live in a globalized world. If you want to make yourself more competitive in the labour market, language skills always help and open doors to job opportunities world-wide. Furthermore, leaving your home country and going abroad is a challenge in many ways. You will not only come back having learnt a foreign language but you will have also trained your memory, increased your self-discipline and have gained more confidence by interacting with others.
5.) Support the local community
The prices for language courses abroad are usually lower than taking classes in your home country and by studying abroad you help the local economy to grow. The school pays the taxes and the salaries of the local teachers and organizes day trips with local guides as well as offers family stays or other kinds of accommodation. This provides an added income for these families so even your stay even has a positive impact on others. With this tourist driven financial support many communities ensure their economic stability.
Whenever or wherever you want to go abroad, learning a foreign language will help you in many ways. If you want to travel a country it enables you to get in touch with the locals, if you want to read foreign literature in its original version it allows you to understand the linguistic niceties of the native language of the author (same thing for movies).
Sharing fun moments with the other students, seeing new places and getting out of your daily routine is a great and a unique experience that you should not miss out on!
Aside from Spanish courses in Spain and Latin America, do you know other places that are popular to learn a foreign language? What are the benefits that you consider when going to study abroad?
Marie von Schlieben is currently living in Spain and knows a lot about Language Travel, more of her articles can be found at her Blog about Spanish & Latin American culture and history.
Article Source: Top 5 Reasons to Learn a Foreign Language Abroad
Sunday, March 25, 2012
30 Interesting and Money Saving Travel Sites
All of these sites are trying to sell you something, but many are interesting, some offer free information, and you may find something of value to you:
1. Ultimate Disney World Savings Guide
2. Insider Secrets To Cheap Flights, Hotel Reservations and Car Rentals
3. Fly Cheap
4. Basic Expat Training Manual The Philippines Experience
5. Nomads Notes Travel Diary Software
6. Travel Blog Success - How to Make Money with a Travel Blog
7. RV Education 101--Learning RVs the easy way. Rver Videos
8. Treasure Hunting, Gold Prospecting, Metal Detecting, and Exploration
9. The Ultimate Teaching Position | The Best Teaching Job You Will Ever Have!
10. How to Immigrate to Canada
11. What to Do on A Cruise Ship
12. Cities of the World
=================
MORE TRAVEL WEBSITES
1. Ultimate Disney World Savings Guide
2. Insider Secrets To Cheap Flights, Hotel Reservations and Car Rentals
3. Fly Cheap
4. Basic Expat Training Manual The Philippines Experience
5. Nomads Notes Travel Diary Software
6. Travel Blog Success - How to Make Money with a Travel Blog
7. RV Education 101--Learning RVs the easy way. Rver Videos
8. Treasure Hunting, Gold Prospecting, Metal Detecting, and Exploration
9. The Ultimate Teaching Position | The Best Teaching Job You Will Ever Have!
10. How to Immigrate to Canada
11. What to Do on A Cruise Ship
12. Cities of the World
=================
MORE TRAVEL WEBSITES
Friday, March 23, 2012
Go to Italy and Visit Rome, Florence, Tuscany, and Lake Como
Italy is a great place to visit. It has so much to see and do. From great antiquities, major metropolitan areas, beautiful countryside, mountains, and...Lake Como.
If you enjoy walking, Europe is a great place to visit, and the cities and countryside of Italy is some of the best walking terrain in the world. However, if walking in big cities, like Rome, doesn't seem to be relaxing, take a trip north to Lake Como...and don't tell my wife. George Clooney has a home there, and she would give major portions of her anatomy to go there and see him!
=====================
Top Reasons to Walk in Lake Como
By Dipika Patel
If you're planning a walking holiday in Italy, consider basing yourself in Lake Como. This fabulous destination, situated in the Lombardy region, boasts some immensely rewarding trails and incredible towns to explore. So, what are the top reasons to come here?
Rewarding routes
One of the chief reasons for choosing Lake Como for your independent walking holiday is the fantastically rewarding routes it is home to. Many of the trails here pose a little bit of a challenge, giving you the chance to stretch yourself and discover some incredible views that a lot of visitors would otherwise miss.
However, you need not worry that the paths will be excessively hard. While demanding, they will not exhaust you - and they will be all the more satisfying for your efforts.
Little-known paths
Another charming thing about a luxury activity holiday here is that you'll discover a mixture of little-known and historical paths. Indeed, the trails include pilgrimage routes and smugglers' pathways, with their rich past making your walks all the more exciting.
Among the historical trails you'll follow is a pilgrims' trail in Lenno. This uphill route is littered with twists and turns and sprinkled with chapels, before you reach the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Santuario Soccorso. Next, you'll walk along a mountain route dating back to the 12th century to get to the wonderfully isolated Abbey of San Benedetto. Nestled high above a valley, it's the ideal scenic spot for a picnic.
Visiting Varenna will take you along another historical route. This pilgrimage trail leads uphill to the spectacular Varenna Castle. In addition to being visually striking, this fortification offers splendid views over the surroundings. Leaving here, you can follow the path along the eastern shore to where it meets the lake at Bellamo, before visiting the 'orrido' - a vast gorge that slices the town in two.
Pretty cities, towns and villages
It is not only historical walks you have to look forward to; Lake Como also plays host to some immensely attractive cities, towns and villages. Among them is Como, which is home to a fascinating old city you can explore prior to embarking on a walk high above it.
Bellagio, meanwhile, is celebrated for its picturesque promenade and the charming villages it is home to, which are nestled in the hills. These are well worth seeking out, as they boast little farms that sell excellent locally-made produce, including honey and cheeses.
After visiting Bellagio, you can spend some time in Pescallo, which is well known for its fabulous waterfront restaurants and winding streets.
Mountain views
Another attractive thing about Lake Como is its marvellous alpine views. During a walking break here, you can embark on some excellent mountain routes, discovering unforgettable vistas that many tourists miss out on.
Perhaps one of the most breathtaking is the trail up Monte San Primo. You'll transfer up to a height of 1,000 m before walking to a saddle at 1,400 m. Staggering 270 degree views will greet you upon your arrival, while the 2,400 m La Grigne towers above you. You'll have an amazing experience on the return leg too, by visiting a cliff-side bar in the village of Ghisallo, situated around 750 m below the saddle.
In Como, you can take the funicular - a near-vertical journey that's bound to thrill you - up to Brunate, which is situated 700 m above the town. You can see all the way to Milan from this vantage point, making it an unforgettable highlight of your trip.
Searching for a walking holiday in Italy? Headwater Holidays offers an excellent range of luxury activity holidays, so find the perfect independent walking holiday with us today.
Article Source: Top Reasons to Walk in Lake Como
======================
Life on a Cruise Ship
If you enjoy walking, Europe is a great place to visit, and the cities and countryside of Italy is some of the best walking terrain in the world. However, if walking in big cities, like Rome, doesn't seem to be relaxing, take a trip north to Lake Como...and don't tell my wife. George Clooney has a home there, and she would give major portions of her anatomy to go there and see him!
=====================
Top Reasons to Walk in Lake Como
By Dipika Patel
If you're planning a walking holiday in Italy, consider basing yourself in Lake Como. This fabulous destination, situated in the Lombardy region, boasts some immensely rewarding trails and incredible towns to explore. So, what are the top reasons to come here?
Rewarding routes
One of the chief reasons for choosing Lake Como for your independent walking holiday is the fantastically rewarding routes it is home to. Many of the trails here pose a little bit of a challenge, giving you the chance to stretch yourself and discover some incredible views that a lot of visitors would otherwise miss.
However, you need not worry that the paths will be excessively hard. While demanding, they will not exhaust you - and they will be all the more satisfying for your efforts.
Little-known paths
Another charming thing about a luxury activity holiday here is that you'll discover a mixture of little-known and historical paths. Indeed, the trails include pilgrimage routes and smugglers' pathways, with their rich past making your walks all the more exciting.
Among the historical trails you'll follow is a pilgrims' trail in Lenno. This uphill route is littered with twists and turns and sprinkled with chapels, before you reach the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Santuario Soccorso. Next, you'll walk along a mountain route dating back to the 12th century to get to the wonderfully isolated Abbey of San Benedetto. Nestled high above a valley, it's the ideal scenic spot for a picnic.
Visiting Varenna will take you along another historical route. This pilgrimage trail leads uphill to the spectacular Varenna Castle. In addition to being visually striking, this fortification offers splendid views over the surroundings. Leaving here, you can follow the path along the eastern shore to where it meets the lake at Bellamo, before visiting the 'orrido' - a vast gorge that slices the town in two.
Pretty cities, towns and villages
It is not only historical walks you have to look forward to; Lake Como also plays host to some immensely attractive cities, towns and villages. Among them is Como, which is home to a fascinating old city you can explore prior to embarking on a walk high above it.
Bellagio, meanwhile, is celebrated for its picturesque promenade and the charming villages it is home to, which are nestled in the hills. These are well worth seeking out, as they boast little farms that sell excellent locally-made produce, including honey and cheeses.
After visiting Bellagio, you can spend some time in Pescallo, which is well known for its fabulous waterfront restaurants and winding streets.
Mountain views
Another attractive thing about Lake Como is its marvellous alpine views. During a walking break here, you can embark on some excellent mountain routes, discovering unforgettable vistas that many tourists miss out on.
Perhaps one of the most breathtaking is the trail up Monte San Primo. You'll transfer up to a height of 1,000 m before walking to a saddle at 1,400 m. Staggering 270 degree views will greet you upon your arrival, while the 2,400 m La Grigne towers above you. You'll have an amazing experience on the return leg too, by visiting a cliff-side bar in the village of Ghisallo, situated around 750 m below the saddle.
In Como, you can take the funicular - a near-vertical journey that's bound to thrill you - up to Brunate, which is situated 700 m above the town. You can see all the way to Milan from this vantage point, making it an unforgettable highlight of your trip.
Searching for a walking holiday in Italy? Headwater Holidays offers an excellent range of luxury activity holidays, so find the perfect independent walking holiday with us today.
Article Source: Top Reasons to Walk in Lake Como
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Life on a Cruise Ship
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Going to Travel Back Down Home to Florida's Gulf Coast
couldn't pass up the following article.
Although I live in the Dallas - Fort Worth, Texas area, I grew up walking barefoot on the edge of Pensacola Bay. I can remember when there was no bridge between Santa Rosa Island and Navarre Beach. In those days, the only way onto "the island" was the toll bridge over "the sound" at Pensacola Beach.
It's a great area, and hopefully, I'll be back there in a few months for a visit. At worst, my 50th high school reunion, Pensacola Catholic High '63, will be next year and I will definitely be there then.
=======================
Florida Beach Vacations - Explore Navarre Beach
By Alfred Ardis
When you think of a Florida family vacation your mind goes right to Orlando and the theme parks right? But there's so much more to Florida. A Florida beach vacation can be a relaxing, unhurried, no waiting in line, toes in the sand beach vacation.
Florida has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. In fact, Santa Rosa Beach on Florida's Emerald Coast comes in at #12 in a listing of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The list is topped only by such exotic locations as Hawaii, Fiji and Thailand. In fact, the travel guide, Frommer's, describes Northwest Florida's shoreline as, "one of America's best beaches".
Navarre Beach on Santa Rosa Island is adjacent to Gulf Islands National Seashore, a nine mile stretch of undeveloped, protected, pristine beach where you can explore the sugar sands and crystal clear blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Many families come back to Navarre Beach for their beach vacation annually. There's something for every member of the family here. Not a beach person? Explore the area of historic Milton, a real piece of old Florida, with its art galleries, antique shops and restaurants. For the adventurer there's Blackwater State Park, that's known as Canoe Capital of Florida. Canoeing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, biking, zip line adventures and more await the outdoor enthusiast.
Accommodations run the gamut for a Florida beach vacation. There are campgrounds, condos, cottages and large family homes available for a few days, a week, a month or even the entire season. No matter what type of trip you're planning, a girl's getaway, a family reunion, family vacation or a romantic weekend, you'll find a great selection of available lodging.
Navarre Beach is kid friendly. There are many restaurants that cater to families and activities beyond the beach for children. There's a zoo, marine science center and the new Panhandle Butterfly House. Kids love the great outdoors whether it's the beach, the rivers or forests of Northwest Florida there are and abundance of natural wonders and adventures for them to discover.
Championship golf, tennis and watersports are also part of a Florida beach vacation. The Club at Hidden Creek in Navarre offers golf to the public and has memberships available. The course was designed by well-known golf course architect, Ron Garl and offers a lush, meticulous groomed course that's has something for players of every skill level.
Many families that come for beach find themselves coming back year after year to visit Navarre Beach for everything else it has to offer. The natural beauty of the Navarre Beach area is complemented by the historic charm and romantic world of old Florida in Milton and accented with the outdoor adventures available on Blackwater River and in Blackwater State Park.
Truly this part of Northwest Florida offers everything you can ask for in a family beach vacation. It's a world away from the stressors of your daily life but just a short drive from most of the Southeastern U.S. In this beautiful and serene setting, you can reconnect with your family, friends and kids for a memorable vacation. Florida beach vacations are a fun and affordable option for all families. To learn about one of the most beautiful beaches the state has to offer, go to: http://www.floridabeachestorivers.com.
Article Source: Florida Beach Vacations - Explore Navarre Beach
=================
Going on your first cruise? Learn What to Do on a Cruise.
Although I live in the Dallas - Fort Worth, Texas area, I grew up walking barefoot on the edge of Pensacola Bay. I can remember when there was no bridge between Santa Rosa Island and Navarre Beach. In those days, the only way onto "the island" was the toll bridge over "the sound" at Pensacola Beach.
It's a great area, and hopefully, I'll be back there in a few months for a visit. At worst, my 50th high school reunion, Pensacola Catholic High '63, will be next year and I will definitely be there then.
=======================
Florida Beach Vacations - Explore Navarre Beach
By Alfred Ardis
When you think of a Florida family vacation your mind goes right to Orlando and the theme parks right? But there's so much more to Florida. A Florida beach vacation can be a relaxing, unhurried, no waiting in line, toes in the sand beach vacation.
Florida has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. In fact, Santa Rosa Beach on Florida's Emerald Coast comes in at #12 in a listing of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The list is topped only by such exotic locations as Hawaii, Fiji and Thailand. In fact, the travel guide, Frommer's, describes Northwest Florida's shoreline as, "one of America's best beaches".
Navarre Beach on Santa Rosa Island is adjacent to Gulf Islands National Seashore, a nine mile stretch of undeveloped, protected, pristine beach where you can explore the sugar sands and crystal clear blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Many families come back to Navarre Beach for their beach vacation annually. There's something for every member of the family here. Not a beach person? Explore the area of historic Milton, a real piece of old Florida, with its art galleries, antique shops and restaurants. For the adventurer there's Blackwater State Park, that's known as Canoe Capital of Florida. Canoeing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, biking, zip line adventures and more await the outdoor enthusiast.
Accommodations run the gamut for a Florida beach vacation. There are campgrounds, condos, cottages and large family homes available for a few days, a week, a month or even the entire season. No matter what type of trip you're planning, a girl's getaway, a family reunion, family vacation or a romantic weekend, you'll find a great selection of available lodging.
Navarre Beach is kid friendly. There are many restaurants that cater to families and activities beyond the beach for children. There's a zoo, marine science center and the new Panhandle Butterfly House. Kids love the great outdoors whether it's the beach, the rivers or forests of Northwest Florida there are and abundance of natural wonders and adventures for them to discover.
Championship golf, tennis and watersports are also part of a Florida beach vacation. The Club at Hidden Creek in Navarre offers golf to the public and has memberships available. The course was designed by well-known golf course architect, Ron Garl and offers a lush, meticulous groomed course that's has something for players of every skill level.
Many families that come for beach find themselves coming back year after year to visit Navarre Beach for everything else it has to offer. The natural beauty of the Navarre Beach area is complemented by the historic charm and romantic world of old Florida in Milton and accented with the outdoor adventures available on Blackwater River and in Blackwater State Park.
Truly this part of Northwest Florida offers everything you can ask for in a family beach vacation. It's a world away from the stressors of your daily life but just a short drive from most of the Southeastern U.S. In this beautiful and serene setting, you can reconnect with your family, friends and kids for a memorable vacation. Florida beach vacations are a fun and affordable option for all families. To learn about one of the most beautiful beaches the state has to offer, go to: http://www.floridabeachestorivers.com.
Article Source: Florida Beach Vacations - Explore Navarre Beach
=================
Going on your first cruise? Learn What to Do on a Cruise.
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