"The World's Ten Best Sights from Balloon Rides"

The World's Ten Best Sights from Balloon Rides

If only I lived in a balloon, I could see the whole world from the sky. These are the sights I would choose to see and the reasons why.

1.Grand Canyon, USA

Carved by the Colorado River in the state of Arizona, the Grand Canyon is 446km long, 29km wide, and in some parts 1.8km deep. The stone's burnt orange colour looks like terracotta and is absolutely magnificent.

2.Halong Bay, Vietnam

This "Bay of the Descending Dragon" consists of a dense group of 3000 colossal islands, each topped with thick, jungle vegetation, which rise dramatically from the ocean.

3.Ngorougoron Crater, Tanzania

Located at the eastern edge of the Serengeti, this crater lies within the Ngorongoro Conservation area, which covers more then 8000 square kilometres of immaculate African wilderness.

4.Machu Picchu, Peru

This "Old Mountain" is a pre-historic Inca site located 2,430 metres above sea level. It is believed to have been built as an estate for the 15th century Inca emperor Pachacuti. "The Lost City of the Incas" is perhaps the most familiar icon of the Inca world.

5.Chichen Itza, Mexico

This archaeological site was built by the Maya civilization in the Yucutan state of Mexico. The three best known complexes on the site are the Great Northern Platform, the Ossario Group and the Central Group.

6.Egyptian Pyramids, Egypt

These spectacular pyramids were built as tombs for the country's Pharaohs and their wives during the Old and Middle Kingdom periods. The most famous pyramids are located in Giza and on the outskirts of Cairo.

7.Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Built between 802 and 1220 AD in the Kmer civilization, Angkor Wat represents one of humankind's most astounding and enduring architectural achievements. The site was covered for centuries until French explorer Henri Monhot brought it to the world's attention in 1860.

8.Amazon Rainforest, Ecuador

This wet broadleaf forest covers most of the Amazon Basin of South America. The basin encompasses 7,000,000 square kilometres and is home to 2.5 million insect species, tens of thousands of plants, and 2,000 birds and mammals.

9.Iguasu Falls, Argentina and Brazil

A collection of 275 amazing waterfalls spanning 3 km along the border of Argentina and Brazil. Standing before this emotionally powerful and stunning force of nature is nothing short of humbling.

10.Stonehenge, England

One of the most famous archaeological sites in the world, these large, freestanding stones are surrounded by the most gorgeous earthworks. The Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments were erected around 2500 BC as burial grounds.
Ohhhh... If only I lived in a balloon....

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Balloon Safaris provides hot air balloon rides in the south east of England. All departure points are easily commutable from London. A Balloon Safaris balloon flight is an experience you'll never forget. Check out their website at http://www.balloonsafaris.co.uk/
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"Exploring The Island Of Lanzarote"

Exploring The Island Of Lanzarote

The holiday island of Lanzarote is one of the seven Canary Islands that are known to most simply as a package holiday hot spot. However, with self tailored tourism on the increase these islands still attract increasing numbers of more independent travellers too. This is primarily due to the introduction of budget flights to the Canaries by the major operators that serve this part of the world, and surprisingly prices are now so low it is possible to fly from most of the key British airports for not much more than it costs to stay in a reasonable hotel for a single night.

General tourism on the island of Lanzarote is mainly focussed around the plentiful beaches and coves but whatever part of the island you choose to stay in there are plenty of little surprises just begging to be found. The island is renowned for having little gems tucked away just off the beaten track waiting to be re-discovered by travellers prepared to explore what the island really has to offer, and quite often these can be found not to far from your resort or holiday villa, especially in the more rural areas.

This unique little island is home to diversity of little known of beauty spots as well as a wide array of artistic and natural attractions that seem to have been sewn into the rich tapestry of the islands landscape by the famed local artist César Manrique.

Arguably, Lanzarote´s most talked about attraction has to be the 300 plus volcanoes that can be found here. These were created by a spell of seismic activity during the 18th century that continued for a period over six years. As a result the interior of the island today looks like the moon - with lots of lava fields and spent peaks and unless you have been tucked away in isolation over the past few months, you will be well aware of the amount of debris and ash just one volcano can produce.

This left the area with very little in the way of flora and fauna able to grow or survive here so it comes as something of a surprise to discover that this arid island can actually sustain its own wood. Visitors taking the trouble to explore the north of the island will find El Bosque perched on the Famara massif range of cliffs. The wood is not too easy to find but is populated with Canarian pines and acacias and also delivers an impressive view of the local bay so make sure you do not forget to bring your camera or camcorder to capture this unique beauty spot.

El Bosque is also situated not to far from the other better known green zone here on the islands, which of course is the Valley of 1000 Palms. The area is said to resemble the picture that most people would conjure up in there minds of a desert oasis with palms gentle swaying back and forth and the rustle of palm fronds in the warm Canarian breeze.

If you visiting the Island of Lanzarote try and reserve a few days to get out and about so you can experience the other delights the island has to offer apart form its delightful beaches.

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Lanzarote is not just a holiday sun destination, but it also has a year round cultural calendar and a number of hidden gems just waiting to be explored by visitors whose horizons extend beyond the sun kissed beaches. Travel information for independent travellers can be found on the http://www.lanzaroteguidebook.com website
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"5 Things You Can Do at Walt Disney World Without Setting Foot in a Themepark"

5 Things You Can Do at Walt Disney World Without Setting Foot in a Themepark

The Walt Disney World Resort in Florida is one of the top vacation destinations for people of all ages. But what few people realise is that there is more to Disney World than just a themepark; in fact it is possible to have a wonderful vacation without setting foot in a park.

1. Championship Golf

The Walt Disney World Resort has four outstanding championship golf courses (three of which are on the PGA Tour) and a par-36 practice course, so you don't need to miss out on your golf while on vacation.

Both the general public and resort guests are welcome to play at Disney's Palm and Magnolia courses (which are across from Disney's Polynesian Resort), the Osprey Ridge courses (which are located at the Bonnet Creek Golf Club), and at the Lake Buena Vista course (which is near Downtown Disney/Saratoga Spring Resort).

2. A Day at the Beach

Beach babes can top up their tan on a sandy white beach without suffering the drive to the coast. Just head over to Typhoon Lagoon where you'll find not only a sandy beach but a great wave pool and countless water slides. Don't miss out on Crush n Gusher which is more of a water coaster than a water slide!

3. Hit the Slopes

Story has it that one year a blizzard hit Florida and the Imagineers build a ski resort complete with a ski lift. When the snow started to melt it turned into a great water park which is now known as Blizzard Beach. Are you daring enough to conquer Summit Plummit, the 120 foot high sky-scraping ski-jump water slide?

4. Marvel at Circus Acts

Fans of Cirque du Soleil should head to the Downtown Disney West Side to take in La Nouba. This mesmerising and extraordinary avant-garde circus spectacle will amaze visitors of all ages.

5. Hit the Shops

While you're at Downtown Disney wander over the bridge and into the Marketplace where you'll find a wide variety of shops and restaurants. Don't miss the World of Disney, a store packed full of every Disney accessory you could ever imagine from plush toys to dress-up costumes, T Shirts and sweaters to pyjamas and hats as well as photo frames and magnets and stationery, the list just goes on and on!

There you have it, five ways you can experience the magic at the Walt Disney World Resort without even setting foot in a theme park.

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If you are planning to take your family on a dream vacation to Disney World there are many things you need to think about including the best time to go to Disney, how long to stay for, which hotel to stay in, what tickets to buy and how to beat the lines. You can find all of this information and much more at http://www.operationpixiedust.com
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"When is The Best Time To Ski?"

TIps on When You Should Book Your Ski Holiday

The Question: Which Month is best to go skiing?

The Answer: Well that depends... Here's how it breaks down-

Early season/ before Xmas - If the snowcover is there, then this is a great time to go piste skiing, but head for the tree-lined resorts rather than the rocky ones; that is, if you value the condition of your skis! (I've learnt this the hard way in Meribel!) You will find some fantastic value chalet holidays early on, and if the early snows grace us again, as they have done for the last couple of years (I skiied on Nov 14th in St Gervais is 2009!) then go for it. The pistes will be quiet and so will the resort.

School holidays - Xmas, New Year, Feb half-term, Easter - Avoid them if you can! its always going to be busier than usual. especially if the early season snow is good . But if you have kids, and this is the only time you can get away, then your best bet is to go somewhere with a large ski area, but not a large name. Head to 'The Three Valley's' or 'Espace Killy' and you wont be able to breathe. Look further afield and head to the Four Valleys in Switzerland, the Espace Diamant, or the Evasion Mont-Blanc. Oddly, if you really value your empty pistes, the Christmas day and New Years day are often deserted, so drag yourself out of your chalet and enjoy the pistes to yourselves.

January - It will be cold, with lots of snow and lots of space. The last two January's have seen loads of snow, yet low queues, making it a great time to head out if you can hack the coldest part of the season. With the cold keeping the snow perfect, January is ideal for those who like to ski hard all day everyday. There will always be cheap weeks going last minute in January, so grab yourself a cheap chalet holiday. This isn't really a time to come out for sunshine skiing and long lunches though, more of that later!

February - Excluding the English half-term, February should still be a great month to ski, and there will doubtless be plenty of cheap weeks on offer, but be warned... The European half-term's span over the whole month, and can lead to busy pistes on any day. The best way to avoid them is to head to less well known resorts, or the resorts that seem harder to get to, and will put attract less local holiday-skiers up for the day/weekend.

March - I've asked loads of my skiing friends which is their favourite month? and almost everyone agrees. March is great for skiing. Low queues, the highest snow level, and the sun starts coming out more and more often, so this is a perfect time for a slightly more relaxed ski holiday, or for families...in fact, for anyone!

April/Late Season - Obviously your choices are limited by the amount of snow a resort has and also its closing dates, but April is a great time to come for a relaxed week in the snow and the sun. The lifestyle slows down a little, perfect for those who like to hit the slopes a little later, and have a good long lunch in the sun. No point heading out at 8am now, let the snow soften up for 10am and have a more relaxed week.

So which are you? An all-day-every-day mileage hungry piste beast? or chilled out April skier who can appreciate the 'holiday' part of a 'Ski Holiday'?

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Jamie Forrest is the ski holiday expert, having ran chalets for nearly a decade, he now runs independent catered chalet holidays in St Gervais Mont Blanc, offering unsurpassed levels of service and great food. If you enjoyed this article, then see if you like his holidays.
http://www.ski-bliss.com
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"Top 5 Beaches Around The World"

Top 5 Beaches Around The World

Surf, sand and sun. Whether you love relaxing on a warm tropical beach or just want to swim in turquoise waters, the top five beaches in the world can offer you all this and more. For those who want it all, multi centre holidays are the perfect way to enjoy the best beaches all in one trip. Exotic, secluded and fun these beaches have a variety of features each making them their own little paradise.

Number 5: Fraser Island, Australia. Rainforests, exotic animals, hiking, and beautiful beaches make Fraser Island the largest sand island in the world and the #5 top pick of travelers across the globe. Just over 160 kilometers off the coast of Brisbane Fraser Island offers beautiful weather all year long.

Number 4: Lanikai Beach, Hawaii. The White sands of Lanikai Beach in White are truly paradise. Calm waters from an off shore reef make this beach a must visit for those seeking a relaxing vacation. Beautiful emerald waters and more than half a mile of pristine sand are surrounded by a forest of tropical flowers and plants. Palm trees kiss the edge of the surf, shading travelers. The beach waters offer wonders snorkeling and diving, thousands of tropical fishes and coral lie just a few meters off shore. Whether you want to explore the water or simply soak up the sun, Lanikai beach is Hawaii.

Number 3: Bora Bora, Tahiti. The perfect place to get away from it all, Bora Bora is small, secluded and pristine. White sand beaches cover this tiny island in the south pacific, no more than 28 kilometers in length. A romantic paradise, Bora Bora is one of the few places that still feels like an exotic lost island in the south pacific. Small bungalow and cottages dot the landscape, keeping the island low key and private.

Number 2: The Maldives. Luxury resorts, pampered beaches and sparkling waters teeming with fish and ocean life make the Maldives one of the best places on earth to visit. Located southwest of Sri Lanka, the Maldives are a group of more the 1000 islands and 26 atolls, each more beautiful and exotic then the next. Private boats, sailing from island to island offer travelers exclusive and captivating moments, as they explore lush jungles, dive in warm blue green waters and relax like never before.

Number 1. The Seychelles Islands. Pink sand beaches covered in fragrant tropical flowers, cinnamon groves nestled amongst smooth volcanic rocks and an unmatched beauty make the Seychelles the number one beach destination in the world. Hidden amongst the shallow turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean the Seychelles Islands enjoys warm sunny weather all year long. A paradise of seclude coves and beaches offer privacy to visitor like no other place. Black granite, smooth and soft daubes the beaches of the 115 islands of the Seychelles. Walk off shore, explore the warm sands as you swim in untouched surf; relax at night blanketed by thousands of stars away as you drift off to sleep on the beach in the Seychelles Islands

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For information regarding multi centre holidays visithttp://www.eshores.co.uk/
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"Hawaii Tours - The Only Way To See Hawaii"

Hawaii Tours - The Only Way To See Hawaii

If you're planning a quick getaway in paradise, there's no other place than Hawaii. And the best way to see Hawaii is by doing it through Hawaii tours. Of the various Hawaii tours available, don't miss the North Shore Surf Bus Hawaii Tour at Oahu. Its one of the best!

The gorgeous Hawaii islands located in the central Pacific, south west of USA, has some of the most fantastic beaches in the world along with active volcanoes to see that make it one of the most sought after Go-To destinations in the world. It experiences a tropical climate and comprises of about eight beautiful islands, the biggest being Hawaii, followed by Maui, Kahoolawe, Lanai, Oahu, Kauai, Niihau. Apart from these eight islands, there are about ten smaller islands. The bus tours are one of the best ways to go around the various islands of Hawaii. Of the bus Hawaii Tours available, the North Shore Surf Bus Hawaii Tours are a must during your visit to the exotic islands of Hawaii.

The North Shore Surf Bus operates in one of the largest islands of Hawaii, Oahu. The North Shore Surf Bus is family owned and well organized. Not only does it take you around the island but also stops at strategic locations, so that you can hop off and enjoy yourself. The tours are conducted by two sporting and adventurous individuals from Oahu, Justin Remais and Leila Alli.

It is said that of all the Hawaii Tours, the only way to see Hawaii is with the North Shore Surf Bus mainly because of the vast activities and tour options that it offers. Apart from the bus tours, the tourists also have the option to take up surf lessons, kayak tours, snorkel tours, body boarding, surf tours, bike tours, beach lazing, waterfall walk and swim or even try the stand up paddle board, the more reason for you to visit the island of Oahu on your Hawaii tour.

Oahu is famous for its surfing beaches and the North Shore Surf Bus tour operators ensure that you get to experience one of the best surfing beaches in the world through their tours. Whats more, while at the beach you could also get up close and friendly with the Hawaiian green sea turtles. You could also go for a hiking tour of one of the most beautiful and large island of Hawaii, Oahu.

The greatest part about Hawaiis Surf Bus tour is that it includes a hotel pick up and drop, an introduction to the history of Hawaii, a visit to the Banzai Pipeline and Turtle Beach, a stop at the Haleiwa town and another stop over for a couple of hours for activities like surfing, hiking, biking, body boarding etc. Every tourist on the tour will be welcomed with a bottle of chilled water and a welcome drink. While on the tour, your valuables (and luggage) - no room for luggage, just small valuables, can be kept safe in small available lockers in the bus. The guides on your Hawaii tour are first aid certified, (to offer any required medical attention). The duration of this Hawaii tour is approximately eight hours and varies in cost, depending on the activities you choose.

Only a Hawaii tour of Oahu would be less expensive than a tour with activities and equipment supplied. A tour with two surf lessons would have a cost higher than a tour of the island with a personal guide. However, do remember that additional Hawaii State Sales Taxes would be
applicable on every tour booked. Bookings can be done online or over the phone.

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Barry Crowther has been working closely with Leila Alli, who has been in the Hawaiian Tour business for many years. For more information about a Hawaii Tours.Please visit http://www.northshoresurfbus.com
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"Fabulous Tips to Enjoy your Trip to SeaWorld"

Fabulous Tips to Enjoy your Trip to SeaWorld

Wow, so you are going to SeaWorld? That must have gotten the kids and the whole family very excited. SeaWorld, known as one of the world's marine adventure park, is bustling with lots of things that will fascinate kids of all ages and often, even the adults. From exciting rides, to wondrous encounters with marine animals and fun shopping and dining experiences, everything you are looking for in a perfect family vacation is here in this one place.

To help you make the most out of your SeaWorld adventure, here are some fabulous tips you should always keep in mind.

1. Do your homework. Studying up on SeaWorld may seem like a tedious task for many, but if you try reading up on travel guides and informative resources on this travel spot, you will just get more excited about your trip. Moreover, you get to equip yourself with information necessary for you to have a smooth and stress-free trip.

Your starting point would be the official website of SeaWorld, where you gather relevant info like park hours, ticket prices, time schedule of shows and so on. After this, you can move on to reading travel tips from other travelers who have visited this place. Believe it or not, you will be able to pick up valuable insider's tips that can help you greatly during your trip.

2. Plan your itinerary. It would be a good idea to get a map online prior to your trip to SeaWorld so you can already plan your destination. Get a hold of schedules of special shows and animal encounters and pick those you think your kids would enjoy the most. Don't miss the Sea Lions Live and the Shamu Show, which are two of the most popular attractions in this marine park.

3. Avail of Sea World Vacation Packages. These packages can save you time, money, and energy. Online you will find many great deals on Sea World vacation packages. Orlando is a big place so aside from SeaWorld, you may also want to get packages for other attractions like Disney World and Universal Studios.

4. Arrive early. You don't want to waste time since SeaWorld is quite big of a place and you need at least the whole day to see everything. Waking up early would be a great idea.

5. Bring your own food. Food inside this park can be very expensive. Luckily, guests are allowed to bring a few snacks and bottled refreshments in your bags. This would not only save you a great amount of money but would also save you time from having to look for restaurants and fall in long line to pay for food.

6. Wear comfortable clothes. You will be doing a lot of walking around in the park so wear light shoes. Aside from this, you also need to check the weather prior to the trip so you can dress up accordingly.

SeaWorld is a must-see attraction that you and your family should not miss if you are going to Orlando. Follow these tips for a fun-filled vacation that you will forever cherish and remember.

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disney world packages : affordable and attractivehttp://www.orlandovacation.com/
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"Tourist Attractions in the Bahamas"

Tourist Attractions in the Bahamas

If you are planning a trip to the Bahamas, then you know you are in for a treat. Beautiful beaches, scenery, hotels and a selection of eclectic personalities await you. Whether you are going for a relaxing vacation, or are looking to have a non-stop fun-filled adventure, you have picked an excellent getaway destination. Bahamas holidays are truly something that everyone should experience. When you get to the Bahamas and are not sure where to start, try some of these popular tourist attractions and sites.

Snorkeling in the Bahamas

The clear blue water's off the coast of the Bahamas was made for snorkeling. You will be hard pressed to find snorkeling of this caliber anywhere else in the world. With an array of ocean life - including hundreds of species of fish and reef, you are bound to see something you have never seen before. Go more than one during your Bahamas holiday and you are guaranteed to not see the same things. You may choose to pass-up other attractions, but make sure snorkeling is on your list.

Parasailing

Want to witness an unforgettable view of the Bahamas from above? Parasailing is definitely something that you should take part in. Imagine the freedom and pleasure you will feel while gliding way above the earth. A peaceful and satisfying adventure awaits you high above the waters of the Bahamas.

Sightseeing Tours

There are dozens of tours to choose from while enjoying your Bahamas holiday. Choose from botanical gardens and county tours, a Bahamas beach tour, a biking tour, a combination tour, or simply rent a car and create your own tour. No matter which tour or route you decide to take, you will be in for an unforgettable experience. The Bahamas is a beautiful and magical place to explore.

Sea Lion Encounter

Ever think about swimming with the dolphins? Well this is the Bahamas version of getting up-close and personal with one of nature's animals. If you are traveling with children they will love this. Allow them - as well as yourself, to get closer to a California Sea Lion than you ever thought was possible. Your program will include an orientation, a history and animal training techniques. Finish the encounter by swimming, kissing, hugging and touching the Sea Lions. This is a "must do" if at all possible.

Jeep Safari Tours

Allow yourself to be swept away into the most remote and unknown places in all of the Bahamas. A Jeep safari tour will allow you to discover beaches, forests, coastlines and other amazing secluded treasures that the Bahamas has to offer. Forget about driving, it is done for you. Just sit back with your camera and enjoy the ride.

These are just a few of the many wonderful attractions that await you on your Bahamas holiday. For more information on other sites and/or famous attractions just do a quick search - or better yet, ask the locals when you arrive.

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Find great deals on bahamas holidays at http://www.eshores.co.uk/bahamas-holidays/
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