"El Medano - A Relaxing Holiday in Tenerife"

Relax in Tenerife on a Holiday in El Medano

El Medano is the ideal resort for a peaceful and relaxing Tenerife holiday. No busy nightlife, just a traditional way of life.

Where is it?... El Medano is located in the south of Tenerife, just east of Reina Sofia [Tenerife South] Airport. It's easy to get to in a taxi - just 10-15 minutes away.

Why a holiday in El Medano?... A unique resort which you will either love or hate. If you love it you will return year-after-year. If you hate it you will, at the very least, go home relaxed.
El Medano used to be a fishing village, but is now known for its bay and natural sandy beaches, and although the resort has undergone development it remains unspoiled and is certainly not commercialised [don't expect to find places selling "all day breakfasts"]. Conditions here can be a bit windy, which is great for kite and wind-surfing with international competitions being held here.

Spend the Morning ... The best way to start the day in El Medano is to take a walk along the beach towards Montana Roja. This is known as El Medano Beach. Walk until you come to a small rock which you can go round, and you will then be on Leocadio Machado Beach. It will take you about 15 minutes to walk from one end to the other [starting at the Medano Hotel and reaching the Montana Roja]. You can then walk across some land by the Montana Roja [Red Mountain] to the other side via a dirt road, and then continue along the beach [this is Playa de la Tejita]. Take this opportunity for a quick swim in the sea. If it's too windy then just stay in the shallow water, but the sea can be lovely a calm and ideal for a short dip. Follow this by a long breakfast which you can take in one of the many restaurants found lining the promenade.

After breakfast, you can take a walk in the opposite direction until you come to the small harbour where you can watch the fishing boats bringing in the catch of the day. Walk a bit further to La Cabezo beach, and you may be able to watch the wind-surfers or kite-surfers.
Time for Lunch ... After all the walking and sea air, you will be ready for some lunch. We recommend making your way back to the main square - Plaza Principe de Asturias - and go to Bar Restaurante Avenida [also known as Casa Fefo] which is on the promenade next to the main square. If you prefer to stay out of the sun, you may prefer to sit inside and still benefit from overlooking the sea through the large windows. Alternatively you can sit outside and still enjoy the sun, or escape the midday sun under one of the parasols. Choose from a selection of Canarian food including the locally caught fish. There's no rush, and you can sit there with a drink and just watch the world go by. Victor, the manager at the restaurant, will ensure that you are looked after.

Spend the Afternoon ... You may simply wish to return to your hotel for a short siesta, or spend time sunbathing - remember that this is a laid-back resort. If you are looking for an even more traditional village then head to San Isidro where you will also be able to do a bit of shopping. It's just a short taxi ride away and shouldn't cost more than around 8 euros: A taxi will cost around 8 euros.

Another place to visit nearby is Los Abrigos which will cost approximately 10 euros by taxi from El Medano. Again, this is a quiet resort with several restaurants specialising in shellfish, a promenade and quaint harbour. If you would rather stay in El Medano, then you may like to visit Parque Eolico [if you are walking then this round trip will take around 3 hours]. This is a wind farm and renewable energy centre. Visitors can walk around and see exhibits which demonstrate the principles behind both wind and solar power.

Dine out at ... We would suggest Restaurante Familiar which can be found 2 rows back from the promenade in El Medano. This is a popular restaurant in the resort where you will be able to choose from a good selection of both international and traditional cuisine.

Stay up Late ... Stay in El Medano for a few drinks at one of the many bars which line the promenade and remain open until around midnight or even 1am. However if nightlife is what you are after, then jump into a taxi and take the short ride to Los Cristianos or Playa de las Americas where you can dance the night away until the early hours of the morning.

Regardless of your age, if you are looking for a laid-back, relaxing holiday in Tenerife, then El Medano may just be the resort you're looking for, but remember ... don't expect to do anything too tiring; do expect a traditional, leisurely way of life.

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Gail writes articles on behalf of Corona Holidays who specialise in Tenerife holidays and holidays to El Medano. You can book with confidence as they hold an ATOL Licence and are TTA members. View travel information on destinations and resorts, book hotels, apartments, villas and flights. Take a look at their website at http://www.coronaholidays.co.uk
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"How to Have a Great Family Vacation"

How to Have a Great Family Vacation

Planning a family vacation can be a bit challenging, especially if your family is made up of different age groups with difference interests and preferences. You have to take into account your baby's care, your teenagers hobbies, and your own enjoyment as a couple.

The great thing is that there are a lot of vacation options available now that focus on families and their assorted needs.

Whenever you consider taking a family vacation you need to pay attention to the flexibility and dynamics of your vacation destination. The types of entertainment and the diversity of activities should be wide enough to keep all the members of your family interested, excited, and amused.

And the places that you decide to travel to should have the necessary security measures in place so your children will be safe and sound. And, especially if your family is big, the cost should not be a burden.

With all of this in mind, here are a number of different ways you and your family can enjoy a great family vacation:

Take a Cruise

If your family won't mind being on the ocean for days at a time this could be the perfect getaway for your family. Many cruises offer all-inclusive pricing. The cost of the cruise tickets include your accommodations, food, and entertainment.

Most cruise ships also have a lot of amenities that will appeal to your entire family such as water slides, giant pools, movies, recreation rooms, and playgrounds. You and your family will get to experience exotic, far away destinations. And many cruise lines offer staterooms large enough that your entire family can stay together.

Go to a Family Resort

If you think a member of your family might get sea sick you can still enjoy a lot of the activities at a family resort. Resorts that focus on family vacations feature age appropriate activities and entertainment. They also have the staff and facilities to keep youngsters safe and entertained while their parents can enjoy time alone.

Many resorts also offer all inclusive pricing so that you will be able to keep your expenses within your budget. No matter if you want to vacation in a tropical paradise, an indoor theme park, or a winter wonderland, you have a huge amount of family resort vacation options to choose from.

Have a Family Adventure

If your family has an active lifestyle then you might want to take them on an adventure vacation. Then all your family members can enjoy exciting and different pursuits. And your options may even seem limitless. For example, you can take a canoe trip, go on a cycling tour, to trekking, or go camping.

Sailing, kayaking, and more may even be available at a nearby state park. If you check out the activities they offer and the amenities that are available you might even find that you don't have to travel very far to have a family vacation that every member of your brood will enjoy.

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Next, to find out more about cruises, exotic destinations, and how to save money on your family vacation, go to => http://www.thegreatestdreamvacations.com/
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"Take The Family On A Grand Canyon Rafting Trip For An End-Of-Summer Vacation"

Take The Family On A Grand Canyon Rafting Trip For An End-Of-Summer Vacation

Summer often flies by much faster than people would like. For kids in particular, having a fun-filled summer is a must before heading back to the routine of school. Why not plan that summer vacation for late August and take your family on an exciting, high-adventure Grand Canyon white water river rafting trip?

A white water expedition on the Colorado River offers adventure and education to families with children at least 8 years old - far from the computers and other gadgets that keep us indoors and disconnected from nature. Of course, it's a way to spend quality time together as well, and these trips offer several benefits that make them an ideal vacation option:

1. Rafting companies offer packages for families. There are plenty of options to choose from for all preferences, schedules and physical needs. Whether you want to explore all 188 miles of the Colorado through the Grand Canyon on a two-week expedition, or just a few days experiencing part of the canyon, there are customizable rafting packages available that will fit your needs.

2. There are motorized rafts available, while others might prefer the physicality of oar power. These boats are often large enough to accommodate 16-30 people - so you can bring along other relatives as well for a full family adventure. The area is also a hiker's paradise, with plenty of side canyons to explore from top to bottom, and most packages include day hiking for a complete Grand Canyon experience.

3. For elderly or disabled family members, there's no reason why they can't enjoy the vacation, too - many companies offer special accommodations and transportation from rim to rim to make sure these individuals can safely and comfortably experience the canyon.

4. There is no shortage of attractions to keep your family excited. While white water rafting is the focus of these trips, the canyon is full of natural wonders that are perfect for exploring - and learning a little about the area's history. Day trips range from hidden canyons and caverns to refreshing waterfalls and pools, all offering great photo opportunities and scenic spots to take a break from the heat. There are even ancient ruins built into the canyon walls that capture the timelessness of the area.

5. From food to sleeping accommodations - everything is taken care of when you work with a professional guide company. You don't need to worry about packing meals or lugging around bulky sleeping bags. Included supplies vary, but items like tents, chairs, eating utensils, and of course, life vests are covered by many rafting groups. The guides are even all accomplished cooks - so you can look forward to fine dining (campground-style) too.

6. Expert guides make sure you and your family get the most out of your trip. The best professionals have years of experience under their belts, and can tell you all there is to know about the history and geology of the canyon. In addition, they are skilled navigators and boaters, providing you with an interesting and safe experience as you travel down the river. While the nature of the trips always holds the possibility of accidents, guides are trained in everything from CPR to food handling, and some even hold EMT certification - so you can rest assured that you and your family will be in good hands.

A Grand Canyon river rafting expedition offers an exciting way to finish summer on a high note. The memories from the trip - whether braving the rapids or enjoying the breathtaking views - will be a great addition to your family's experiences.

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Stephen Daniels is an acclaimed http://bit.ly/a8x7RO researcher. If you are interested in a thrilling oar-powered or motorized white water rafting adventure on the Colorado, he recommends the guides at http://www.hatchriverexpeditions.com/ . Their guides promise to educate and entertain you.
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"Meet Queens"

Meet Queens

Queens is the largest by area (comprising a third of the city's total land area), and second largest by population borough of New York City. Though it has the second largest populous comprised of some 2.3 million people, it is only the 4th most densely population, ahead of only Staten Island. It was established in 1683 as one of the original 12 counties of New York, and today it is home to two of the three major New York City Airports - JFK International and La Guardia - as well as Shea Stadium, home of the New York Mets.

Queens is by most estimates the most ethnically diverse political jurisdiction in the United States, if not the entire world. 47.5% of its population is comprised of immigrants. Almost half of the populace is white while blacks and latinos make up an additional twenty and twenty five percent respectively. The remainder is distributed among other races, mostly Asian. It is not unusual to find fifty different languages spoken as native tongues on the same block, and neighbors are often recent arrivals who can barely communicate with one another in an almost pidgin English. For those who wish to see the world without spending a lot of time and money, Queens is an explorer's delight.

Of course, what you get is only a glimpse into the world, but it's a view with a lot of impact. The world-famous Number 7 route of the New York City subway system is labeled the Oriental Express not only for the Asians who ride it daily, but other commuters who hail from equally faraway and exotic lands. Exotic no more, however, these immigrants have transformed the entire length of the line into a panorama of the world. For example, the eastern terminus of Flushing is one of the most jam-packed areas anywhere in the city - and almost none of these people are tourists! Alternatively, the line is also called the International Express, for similar reasons in that it passes through several ethnically diverse locations, especially Roosevelt Avenue.

To be sure, Queens is downright sleepy compared to Manhattan. It has its attractions, but only a few would qualify as world-class wonders in most guidebooks. However, as mentioned at the outset, it is a place for adventurers, which are not quite the same as tourists. Adventurers tend to want to get off the beaten path and experience the authentic, and so-called outer boroughs like Queens offer an arguably truer New York experience than the usual fancy tourist destinations. Why, in terms of culinary delights alone the eager explorer can sample cuisine from around the world: Greek, Italian, and Arabic specialties in Astoria, German, Polish, and other Central European fare in Maspeth and Middle Village, and Indian, Pakistani, and Spanish foods in Jackson Heights.

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Written by Paul Wise, who has lived in Queens recommends http://www.blogarticlesinfo.com/ for more reading on the subject and New York City in general.
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"Top Ten Vacation Spots Enjoyed by Celebs"

Top Ten Vacation Spots Enjoyed by Celebs

Want to spend your holiday like a star? We've got you covered. Get ready to flip flop your way to summer bliss because there's nowhere better to bask, bathe, or banquet then here!

1.Cabo San Lucas

Considered the jewel of the Baja Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas is anything but boring. From world-class golf, to swimming, snorkling, and scuba, your days will be easily filled... or not (if you'd prefer).

2.Miami Beach

More then just a hot spot in the sun, Miami Beach has world famous nightclubs, Art Deco architecture, and designer fashion. It's no wonder supermodel Heidi Klum loves to go!

3.St. Barths

This pearl of the Caribbean is the perfect place to go and relax. With delicious restaurants, great shopping, and fourteen white sand beaches to choose from how can you go wrong? Mariah Carey doesn't think you can!

4.Turtle Island

For romance, relaxation, and adventure, take a trip to Turtle Island, a place named by Captain Cook and his sea turtle eating crew. Privately owned since 1972, this South Pacific paradise is thought to be "as close to heaven on earth as you're likely to get."

5.St. Tropez

Located on the French Riviera, St. Tropez has a reputation for famous and wealthy summertime guests. It has been dubbed the "playground to jetsetters, fashion models, and millionaires."

6.Martha's Vineyard

"Hollywood East", a summer colony only accessible by boat and air, is a favourite of Oprah and Sir Paul McCartney. A study found that the cost of living on the island is 60% higher than the national average and housing prices are 96% higher.

7.Hawaii

A picture perfect destination where every island is more beautiful than the last. The Aloha state has an incredible history and a flame living within its people that can't be put out. When up for a surf, Cameron Diaz likes to visit.

8.The Hamptons

For those busy New York stars who can only escape for the weekend, the Hamptons is the
perfect compromise. Distinguished by its shops, restaurants, and galleries, it's no wonder high-stress New Yorkers like to spend their summers there.

9.African Safari

For those celebrities who look for adventure in their holidays, African Safaris seem to be a popular choice. But don't be fooled by their hats and habits, these holidays offer every possible creature comfort in the middle of immaculate wilderness.

10.Bora Bora

A Polynesian jewel of coral, crystal blue water, and lush forests, Bora Bora is one of the world's most beautiful islands. Located 160 miles northwest of Tahiti, Charlize Theron likes to go.

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Aspiga was set up in 2005 to supply the best of hand made beachware from local manufacturers in Kenya. Products include hand made sandals and belts, beachwear (sarongs, flip flops and dresses), swimwear and bags. All items are of the highest quality. http://www.aspiga.com/
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"Five Ways to Save Money on Your Next Trip"

Five Ways to Save Money on Your Next Trip

The excitement of traveling is often in what's unknown about the destination, but trying to figure out what to do on your own can be very frustrating and expensive. When vacationing, it's important for guests to make the most of their trip by utilizing the many directory and money-saving resources provided by local hotels. From scheduling your flight to finding the best attractions, here are five ways to save money on your next trip.

1) Free city guides

When planning your itinerary, who better to talk with than the people who eat, work, and live there? Upon arrival, be sure to talk with the staff of your hotel. Talking with the people who work at your hotel will reveal a wealth of knowledge about the city that can help you save time and money. They may share their favorite comedy or music show, or even great budget-friendly places to shop. Talking with your hotel's concierge specialist is another valuable step you can take for making the most of your experience. They have an abundance of information to share with guests, and have typically experienced many of the local activities.

2) The locals know best!

When looking for delicious food for a great deal, find out where the locals eat. With a friendly, inquisitive attitude, talking with the locals can lead you in the direction of local diners favored over pricey chain restaurants. While saving a bundle, you will have the experience of a lifetime as you enjoy a local favorite, like a deep-dish pizza or a Chicago-style hot dog.

3) Understand airline cycles

As with hotel reservations, the most effective way to save on airline fees is to plan your well in advance. But you should also understand the seasons that airfares increase and avoid booking in those peak travel times. Having an accurate list of alternate routes to your destination can save you a tremendous amount of time and money, especially in the case of delays.

4) Take advantage of value packages

Looking into the many value packages offered by hotels is a great way to save money! Luxury hotels may offer special family pack discounts for bringing children, incentives for staying additional nights, or club membership discounts. Prepare yourself by studying up on the current special values offers and see what hotel rooms you qualify for.

5) Don't worry about rental cars or cabs...

Just getting around can exhaust a large amount of your budget, but by booking your hotel in the right location, you won't have to worry about rental cars or cabs. Many luxury hotels place guests within walking distance of business, entertainment, dining, and nightlife. With the ideal location being in the heart of the city, plan your next vacation with this in mind: reserving your hotel rooms within walking distance of local attractions will save you time and money, while making the most of your vacation!

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http://www.sheratonchicago.com/ goes beyond deluxe Chicago hotel rooms to provide a new level of hospitality,irresistible comfort and prime location. As one of the premier Chicago hotels, the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers offers a variety of relaxing amenities and is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Chicago. Whether visiting for pleasure or business, the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers is committed to exceeding your expectations.
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"10 Sixtieth Birthday Ideas For Men"

10 Sixtieth Birthday Ideas For Men

The sixtieth birthday of a husband or father is looming and apart from a party, gift ideas are in short supply. 60 is an important milestone so many loved ones want to make sure there is something special to remember the day. Fortunately, there are plenty of other great opportunities for a special sixtieth birthday treat. This top ten list provides active and more sedate options to consider in the UK.

1. Drive a Ferrari

We've all seen one. How many of us have actually been in one. Let alone driven one. Driving a Ferrari is an opportunity to experience the ultimate in performance motoring. There are many circuits around the country where it is possible to book a Ferrrari driving experience.

2. Newspaper from date of birth

There are many gift suppliers who can offer a full newspaper from the birthday boy's date of birth. This can be a full paper in a presentation folder or just a framed front page. It's not a pricey gift but a gesture which will always be well received.

3. Balloon Ride

See the world from 2000 feet in the calm and serene atmosphere of a balloon ride. Flights usually take off early morning or early evening . Flight duration is usually about one hour. Take into consideration that where a balloon lands is very dependent on the direction of the wind, although all operators bring passengers back to the point of departure.

4. Clay Pigeon Shooting

For those who have not experience any form of shooting, clay pigeon shooting is often a surprisingly enjoyable activity. There are many superb locations around the country. Most will offer training and the opportunity to try out newly acquired skills.

5. Personalised Single Malt Whiskey

For those with a penchant for Scotch whisky, a personalised single malt is another relatively inexpensive but valued gift. These can be ordered online with the facility to write a personalised message on the label. An added extra for a more memorable gift.

6. Wine Tasting

There are many traditional options for wine tasting. One which may make it more of an occasion is to visit London's Vinopolis. A visit to Vinopolis can include not just the tasting, but a "How to Taste" session and a tasting notebook.

7. Flying lesson in a Tiger Moth

The Tiger Moth is a 1930's biplane which was generally used by the RAF for training. It's a great way to experience flying from a bygone era and novices may even be able to take control of the aircraft. There a many locations to do this in the UK.

8. A Day at the Races

A day at the races may be pretty standard fare for many, but it can be turned into a special occasion by including lunch, a meeting such as Ascot or Goodwood, or even the special atmosphere of a night time meeting.

9. Champagne on the London Eye

The London Eye is still a relative newcomer to London's list of attractions but has very quickly become a must do experience for visitors to the capital. Pods can be booked by individuals or groups so this can be a very personal experience. Great views of the city and beyond.

10. Fly Fishing

A relaxing but stimulating way to spend a day. There are many wonderful locations to go fly fishing in the UK. For those who've never done it before there are also plenty of places that offer training, lunch and a great day out.

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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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"I Love Touring Italy - Amalfi Hotels"

I Love Touring Italy - Amalfi Hotels

The town of Amalfi, population about 5,000, sits on the Gulf of Salerno some 20 miles (35 kilometers) south east of Naples. It had been an independent maritime state that brought the art of papermaking to Europe from Arabia. Before World War II this town was brimming with paper mills but most tourists won't miss them. The town itself is located at the base of a deep gorge (as in the word gorgeous) and is close to many other great tourist towns. The number one historical sight is the Duomo (Cathedral) which dates back to the Eleventh Century and has Moorish and Gothic influences. Don't miss the Chiostro del Paradiso (Paradise Cloister), the burial grounds for local bigwigs. The Basilica itself is considerably older and serves as a museum.

The local lemons are famous as is the lemon liquor known as Limoncello. Local holidays include the feast days of Saint Andrew (June 25-27 and November 30) and Byzantine New Year's Eve" (31 August). For your convenience we have listed these hotels in approximate order of cost, starting with the least expensive. We have personally verified all website addresses making sure that they include English-language pages.

This three-star Hotel Amalfi has been run by the same family since 1972. It is situated in a totally renovated pasta factory. You'll love the garden whose lemons and oranges are served at breakfast on the glass enclosed rooftop terrace. And parking, often a problem in this part of the world, is available at a nearby garage. The address is Via dei Pastai 3, 84011 Amalfi.

The three-star Hotel L'Antico Convitto is only two blocks from the Duomo but you have to navigate an extremely narrow alley. Its 16 rooms were renovated in 2006. Try to get a room on the upper floor. The junior suites have vaulted ceilings and a Jacuzzi bath. The address is Via Salita dei Curiali 4, 84011 Amalfi.

The three-star Hotel Lidomare occupies a Fourteenth Century building situated between the town and the seashore. The property features beautifully decorated interiors, a cosy lounge area with library and an outdoor terrace with a splendid panoramic views. There are fifteen rooms varying from singles to quints. Breakfast is served either in the room or on the terrace. Some of the rooms are equipped with a Jacuzzi. The address is Largo Duchi Piccolomini 5, 84011 Amalfi.

The four-star Hotel Marina Riviera provides spectacular views of the Amalfi Coast. Each of the 32 rooms offers a sea view and deluxe rooms have a private balcony. Breakfast is served in the breakfast room or in a verandah overlooking the sea. On-site facilities include an American bar, a restaurant with panoramic terrace, large terraces overlooking the Amalfi coast and cosy and elegantly furnished lounges. If money is no object, go for the Suite Amalfitana with a hand painted ceramic floor. The address is Via Pantaleone Comite 19, 84011 Amalfi.

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Levi Reiss has authored or co-authored ten books on computers and the Internet but he would rather just drink fine Italian or other wine, accompanied by the right foods. He teaches various computer classes in an Ontario French-language community college. Check out his wine website http://www.theworldwidewine.com with a weekly column reviewing $10 wines and new sections writing about (theory) and tasting (practice) organic and kosher wines.
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"5 Common Hotel Complaints From The Hotel's Point Of View"

5 Common Hotel Complaints From The Hotel's Point Of View

Most complaints have their sources in genuine accidents, no hotel is really trying to ruin their guests' visit, but while some common complaints are more than valid, theres always another side to the story. Believe it or not, there are reasons for hotels doing some of the things they regularly do that drive some of their guests to irritation. Heres a list of some of the most frequent complaints made against hotels, and some reasons as to why hotels behave the way they do.

Lost Bookings: Okay, so youve booked your room on Hotwire, packed your bags, made the trip, and now that you've arrived at the hotel it seems that they had no idea you were coming. This mistake can have many reasons behind it.

Firstly, how long ago did you booked your stay? Keep in mind that when you book a room on a website like hotels.com, or Expedia, in many smaller hotels the booking is not instantaneously entered in the hotel's database. What typically happens is a three step process where the website sends the information to the hotel in the form of an e-mail or a fax, which is then entered by hand into the system by one of the Check-In staff, then a confirmation is sent from the hotel to the booking engine. Its surprising how many people don't realise this. I once had a guest book a room on Expedia as he was walking in our front door, and he was quite taken aback that his booking wasnt instantly recorded by the time he made it to the front desk.

There is also the possibility of human error. Sometimes things get entered into the system wrong, or the hotel gets overbooked. While no hotel will ever willingly admit that they've made this most disastrous of mistakes, it does happen. However, most hotels have an understanding with another, similar hotel in the neighbourhood that they can move overbooked guests over to, in case the unthinkable should happen.

Cancellation Fees:

Many hotels will charge a fee if you cancel your booking at the last minute. While larger hotels might be able to absorb the loss, it makes good sense for small hotels to adhere to some sort of cancellation policy. In fact, we have a 24 hour cancellation policy here at Nuvo. In our defence, we only have 32 rooms and if someone cancels the day of their booking theres a pretty decent chance that we won't be filling that room. Since it actually represents a fair chunk of change for us, we have a cancellation policy in place to help us break even on last minute cancellations. However, if theres a good reason for the cancellation (like a family emergency, flight cancellation due to a volcano, car breakdowns, or ninjas), we'll likely waive any fees. Housekeeping Ignoring the "Do Not Disturb" Sign: This is one of the more greivous mistakes a hotel can make, in my opinion. Once you've put down your money for the stay, the room belongs to you, and you should be able to get a little bit of privacy. Not to mention that random people walking into your room while you're sleeping is terribly invasive.

There are reasons why the housekeepers do it, though. Housekeeping staff usually work in shifts, and since they usually have lives outside of work, are not available to clean rooms 24/7. They really only have a limited amount of time to do all the cleaning for the day, and every occupied room has to be cleaned. Its also very common for guests to leave the room without taking down the sign on the door, so if its past a certain time of the day, its standard practice for housekeepers to poke their heads into a room to check and see if anyone's actually in there. Also, in a situation where it's the last day of the reservation where a guest hasn't checked out on time, or informed the hotel that they will need a late check-out, with another guest trying to check in to the same room... Well, in that case housekeeping, after getting approval from management, may very well enter a room, more to try and figure out whats going on than to clean it, though.

Additional Room Charges:

I personally hate this one when I travel. You check into your room and eat a granola bar from a bowl on the counter, only to find out two weeks later that you were charged $4.00 for it. That kind of upselling is sneaky and, dare I say it, dishonest. There are also hotels that will charge extra for services that you have no way of opting out of. Thats just the hotel managements way of bringing in as much money per booking as possible, sometimes to the irritation of their guests.There are some cases in which having additional charges added to a booking can be argued as being reasonable. For example, here at Nuvo there is an extra daily fee should you require the use of a parking stall. We do this because we don't own the stalls ourselves, we rent them from our neighbours. Woking the cost of keeping those stalls into the standard rates for the hotel and causing every guest to pay for them, whether they need a stall or not, seemed wrong.

So, we worked out a rate that allows us to keep the stalls for our use without having to charge everyone who walks through our doors

Charging Extra for Internet:

I have no argument for this one. Any hotel that is still charging its guests for WiFi needs to re-evaluate its pricing. These days, a simple high-speed WiFi set-up costs very little to maintain, and theres really no excuse for not offering it to paying guests free. If Coffee Shops can do it for free, why cant $400 per night hotels? Thats right Starwood Hotels, Im looking at you.

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Jonathan Meier is the Marketing and Social Media Coordinator for Nuvo Hotel Suites, a stylish boutique hotel specializing in long term stays in downtown Calgary, Alberta. Check out the trendy suites at http://www.nuvohotelsuites.com
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"I Love Touring Rome, Italy - Salario District Hotels"

I Love Touring Rome, Italy - Hotels In The Salario District

The lush, green Salario district is in northeastern Rome. One of its highlights is the neo-Classical Villa Torlonia formerly rented by BM (Benito Mussolini) as his state residence. Would you believe the rent was one lira per year? The Villa's centerpiece is the Casina delle Civette. This property is no longer for rent; it contains a lovely museum. You might want to compare and contrast it with the Villa Albani that still belongs to the Torlonia family, said to be the wealthiest family in Nineteenth Century Rome. You may want to visit the Santa Constanza Church built under Emperor Constantine I, a mausoleum that contains the remains of his daughters. The church interior is decorated with excellent Fourth Century flora and fauna mosaics and scenes of a Roman grape harvest. Make sure to see the Ponte Salario (Salario Bridge) parts of which date from antiquity. For your convenience we have listed neighborhood hotels in approximate order of cost, starting with the least expensive. We have personally verified all website addresses making sure that they include English-language pages.

The Domus Coppede Town House is a non-smoking property that was launched in 2008. There are only 6 rooms so you may want to reserve in advance. Breakfast is served in your room but there is a garden. The address is Via Reno, 23 - 00198 - Rome.

The Hotel San Giusto occupies 6 floors whose rooms were recently renovated. It's not very far from the Villa Torlonia. There is a breakfast room and a bar. They offer 17 single, 35 double, and 12 triple rooms. The address is Piazza Bologna, 58 - 00162 - Rome.

The Hotel Villa Florence (yes, we are in Rome) occupies a country house that dates from the mid-Nineteenth Century. Make sure that you visit its garden with artifacts from Ancient Rome. There is room on the ground floor for the disabled. You'll find a reading room, a TV room, and a bar plus a breakfast room and a panoramic terrace. The address is Via Nomentana, 28 - 00161 - Rome.

The four-star Hotel Villa Morgagni occupies an elegant villa that was built near the turn of the century, in other words in the early Twentieth Century. It has been completely refurbished. Some of the 34 rooms are equipped with a hydro-massage bath. In any case you can use the special relaxation area boasting a Turkish bath and sauna. You can eat breakfast in the roof garden during the summer. There is a meeting room with video conference facilities and a bar. The hotel address is Via Giovanni Battista Morgagni, 25 - 00161 - Rome.

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Over the years Levi Reiss has authored or co-authored ten books on computers and the Internet but simply prefers drinking fine Italian or other wine, with the right foods. He teaches a variety of computer classes at an Ontario French-language community college. Visit his Italian travel website http://www.travelitalytravel.com which includes information on Italian wine and food.
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"Cheap Flights to Israel - And Why You Should Use Them"

Cheap Flights to Israel - And Why You Should Use Them

Israel is like a tiny, magical box. It is a fascinating, unique, and often controversial nation with a biblical history and unmatched religious locations throughout. And it’s all located in an area approximately the size of New Jersey!

And cost is no longer an excuse. Yes, during these tough economic times it’s hard to imagine going on any vacation at all- nevertheless one across the world. However, with a plethora of different travel agencies and travel websites offering Asia and Europe airline tickets, cheap flights to Israel are now easier to find than ever before!

Some, but certainly not all, of the many reasons to go to Israel include…

The Western Wall – The holiest site for the Jewish people is the only remaining piece of architecture from the Jewish Temple destroyed in 586 B.C.E. The area the Western Wall is located in is almost always filled with people from all cultures and social classes. It is a true Wonder of the World, and one of the most unique things to witness across the globe.

Ancient Cities – The official Israel travel website, goIsrael.com, requests you “use the word ‘old’ sparingly” when describing Israeli cities. Most go back not just centuries, but millennia. Jerusalem is obviously the most well-known, but restored 19th century villages such as Zichron Ya-akov on Mount Carmel are certainly worth visiting.

Don’t count out Tel Aviv, however. The largest city in Israel, Tel Aviv (and its “older sister,” Jaffa) offer a much more modern urban experience than some of the ancient villages that surround it.

Incredible Kosher Wine- Yes, France makes some incredible wines (and they drink it like fish!). Italy sure does too. In fact, the average consumer looking to enjoy fine wine might consider traveling to Northern California before heading to Northern Israel.

However, the idea that luxury wine is limited to one area is a way of the past. The Golan Heights and Sea of Galilee now boast some of the world’s most exciting young wineries, producing world-renowned wines at excitingly reasonable prices.

Making a Difference – Because the nation of Israel is so small, every little bit counts. Nowhere is this more obvious than when discussing charitable contributions and activities taken part in by visitors and tourists. By volunteering, working with a charity or children’s group, or assisting in programs intended to bridge the cultural gaps between Jews and Arabs, you’re giving yourself an opportunity to make more of an impact than you ever could in a larger culture.

So stop making excuses! Call your travel agency, get your family together, cash in on those vacation days, get yourself on one of the many cheap flights to Israel and start enjoying the tiny, magical box that is Israel today!

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Thinking about traveling to Israel? http://www.DoAlltravel.com is a Brooklyn Travel Agency specializing in cheap flights to Israel, as well as Europe airline tickets. Visit our blog at http://www.doalltravelblog.com/
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"Relax And Rejuvenate Your Body And Mind At A Day Spa"

Relax And Rejuvenate Your Body And Mind At A Day Spa

Spa and laser centres for men and women around the world offer rejuvenating pure and natural water treatments with a multitude of facilities and services to make sure every person that wants a treatment leaves feeling fresh and beautiful.

Spa services include but are not limited to; facials, manicures, hair removal, laser and teeth whitening. They also offer waxing, Brazilian waxing, massages and an array of skin care solutions. There are even a few spas that make life easier for the busy businessman or woman, or avid out-of-towner by accommodating people with or without an appointment (though scheduling an appointment is recommended).

Some choices spas offer are body wraps, massages, scrubs and holistic therapy. Each of these is conducted in a professional manner, leaving you truly rested and relaxed. Holistic therapy involves Energy Healing, Acupuncture, Tui Na and Acupressure, Reiki Energy Healing and Acutonics (an innovative and interesting Holistic approach that uses sound and vibrations to heal the body). These Eastern methods of healing are becoming more and more popular on the day spa landscape.

For hair removal, they offer waxing, laser hair removal, threading and electrolysis. These procedures and services are conducted only by people who are seasoned in each field. Similarly, the tooth whitening is done by professionals and whiten teeth three to 10 shades brighter in one 10-20 minute session. These services are effective and efficient.

Hair extensions are also available. Facials, microdermabrasion, eyelashes, tinting, hair colouring and ear piercing can be done as well. The term "head to toe" takes on a literal meaning at some select spas where your entire body and mind can be completely rejuvenated with the remarkable array of services available. An impressive list of spa packages is also available for brides, couples and many more.

All of the invigorating and revitalising procedures are done by seasoned professional aestheticians, technicians and stylists, creating an oasis of comfort and beauty that you will take with you when you leave the door of the spa.

If the stresses and strains of everyday life are getting you down, you may want to consider visiting a day spa in your area. You can choose from a variety of treatments, from foot and head massages to back rubs, pedicures and manicures. Everyone deserves to be treated to a little "TLC" from time to time, and how better to do it than rest and relax in the comfort of a day spa.

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A spa that offers all of the services mentioned is Vada Spa. They offer a truly awakening head to toe experience. Put your feet up and enjoy the complimentary wine, massage pedicure chairs,eco-friendly products and time-tested, proven services to groom, refresh and revitalize the whole person. For more information, visit http://www.vadaspa.com
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