New Zealand’s accommodation is as varied as its beautiful scenery. In New Zealand you can camp for free in your tent or campervan or stay in the finest luxury lodges where Hollywood stars pay large amounts of money for world-class accommodation, isolation and Lord of the Rings scenery. In general all levels of accommodation are of a high quality on a world standard eg; If you were to stay at a campground all the campgrounds will have kitchens and good shower and toilet facilities. Most will have outdoor barbeques and also facilities to keep the children occupied.

New Zealand is becoming more and more popular as a tourist destination during the northern hemisphere winter so the summers in New Zealand are becoming more populated.

Booking is encouraged during the peak summer season 1st December until the end of February. November and March are also very busy with these months in the shoulder seasons. Prices are not as high during these two months.

If you really want to stay anywhere, when ever you want you will find 1st May until the end of September quiet, with great deals for accommodation, vehicles, and activities. The middle of this period is New Zealand’s winter with the ski areas around New Zealand open for business.

Winter can be cold in the south but no colder than the UK or somewhere like San Francisco, if you holiday at the top of the North Island you will have warmer weather with temperatures around the same as a winter in Sydney.

Whenever you travel to New Zealand you will find accommodation that your holiday deserves.

http://www.newzealandatoz.com New Zealand AtoZ provides useful New Zealand free information and advice to travellers, including a full list of all New Zealand car, motorhome and campervan rental companies along with their daily hire rates.

Your complete guide to New Zealand.

The Parador of Alarcon is located about 200 km. southeast of Madrid directly below Cuenca. Twelve hundred years ago, a prince of the Visigoths was out hunting and came upon a rugged and rocky hill almost completely encircled by a river. He thought it a perfect place to build a fortress. His father, King Alaric, came back to inspect the site and did build a castle there. The town and the Parador still bear his name.

The Alarcon Parador has thick stone walls set with turrets surrounding it and the small town. One of these towers (called a coracha) is right down on the river Jucar. It was from under this one that the ancient townspeople could obtain water during a siege.

The castle was controlled by the Moors for hundreds of years. In 1184, after a long unsuccessful siege, a brave knight climbed the walls one night by using two daggers to wedge into the slits in the great stones that form the walls. He got over and opened the doors from within allowing King Alfonso VIII and his forces in to recapture the castle for the Christian re-conquest. Many years later, Queen Isabel had to put down a rebellion of sorts here by some of her powerful yet disloyal barons.

The Parador of Alarcon is the kind of place castle lovers dream of. It looks and feels like a castle, and one can literally sense the history of the place as a palpable presence. It’s setting is spectacular, and the approach is unforgettable – transporting the traveler not only to the castle, but seemingly back in time as well!

Interesting nearby excursions from Parador Alarcon:

- The medieval old town of Alarcon.

- The wonderful Iglesia de Santa Maria.

- The old town hall on the main plaza.

Interesting day trips include:

- Cuenca – The city of the famous casas colgadas (hanging houses). Cuenca is a Unesco-declared World Heritage site, and should be considered a must see.

- Belmonte – Be sure and drive over to Belmonte to see the wonderful old, abandoned, yet well-preserved 15th century castle ruins there. You can climb up into the towers and walk around inside the grounds. The Belmonte castle has a rare and beautiful triangular patio. If you go on a weekday – you’ll likely have it all to yourself.

For travelers who like to visit relatively un-touristed locations that, nevertheless, exude an air of historical significance – and especially for aficionados of wonderful old castles – the Alarcon Parador is a near-perfect destination.

SpainParador.com makes it easy for you to plan and arrange your next trip to Spain. This time stay in palaces, castles, and other places of great historical interest and rare beauty – the wonderful Paradors of Spain. http://www.SpainParador.com

Ahhh … summer on Cape Cod. Relaxing on a sandy beach, listening to the soothing sound of the surf. Your mind just floats away as the warmth of the summer sun eases the stress of the daily grind. What a perfect place for a summer vacation.

But wait! It’s not summer! It’s after Labor Day – considered early fall on the Cape. Is Cape Cod any place for a vacation other than in summer? The answer is – absolutely!

Summers spent at the Cape are wonderful, but they are very crowded due to the fact that schools are out and the majority of families vacation sometime between mid-June and Labor Day. If you have flexibility to vacation at times other than summer, than you are in luck!

Cape Cod is a wonderful place to visit almost anytime in spring and fall as well. Yes, you may need to forego the beach experience, but there is plenty to do, and the summer crowds are generally non-existent. Late spring is a great time, with plenty of lodging available as early as April. Most lodging establishments stay open well into October, and some are now open year-round due to the increased popularity of off-season travel. And of course there is the benefit of reduced rates and specials as more and more places try to attract your business. Off-season is an excellent time to try that expensive Bed & Breakfast or fancy resort you always wanted to indulge yourself in but could not afford in-season.

Dining options are plentiful in late spring and fall, too. Again, most places stay open well into October, partly to take advantage of those seeking the beautiful New England foliage, partly because it is becoming more and more popular to travel off-season.

The ferries to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket from Woods Hole run regular schedules beginning in early April and running through early October. But – they also run year-round, so don’t rule out a pleasant trip to the islands in the off-season. Just be sure to check the schedules ahead of time.

One of the nicest things about an off-season vacation on the Cape is the quiet, less rushed pace. Travelling popular Routes like 6A and 28 are a breeze compared to summer. People are a bit less occupied with just getting there and more interested in enjoying the journey. Even the locals seem less hurried.

Hmm, let me see – driving is more relaxing, parking is easier, shops are less crowded, lodging is less expensive, restaurants rarely have a wait – off-season sure sounds like a great time to vacation on Cape Cod to me!

Linda Behrle has spent a lot of time vacationing on Cape Cod beginning in childhood. It is still her favorite place on earth to vacation. If you are interested in Cape Cod travel, visit her website http://www.everythingcapecod.net for all your vacation planning needs.

St Lucia would be just at home in the South Pacific, but it resides in the southeastern Caribbean Sea, and is part of the Windward Islands.

Just north of Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago lies a tropical paradise equal to the Pacific islands of Tahiti and Fiji. The calm waters of the Caribbean Sea which is usually compared to the color turquoise, appears to be royal blue around the island of St Lucia. No doubt this is due to the fact this is a volcanic island unlike the coral islands of the Caribbean basin.

Old ship records speak of how captains and sailors alike were awed by the sighting of St Lucia. Perhaps this is why the island was fought over and changed hands 14 times in its history. Two countries, England and France fought 14 battles back and forth to gain control of the island. The English eventually won the war, but France won the battle since the island is definitely French in culture.

The most photographed scene in the Caribbean and landmark of St Lucia are Petit Piton and Gros Piton. These two enormous volcanic mountains are covered with lush green vegetation and rise over 2,600 feet above the sea, and 1,000 feet below. Soufriere, located at the base, is where the jungle meets the royal blue sea. The majestic twin Pitons greet you at every turn while on the island – such an awesome sight!

As a comparison among its Caribbean neighbors, the only two that come close to St Lucia?s beauty is Dominica (the nature island), and the interior of the island of Jamaica. St Lucia boasts a variety of exotic black sand beaches, tropical birds, plants and flowers. Everywhere you turn, and on each island adventure there is just more beauty to be seen. I attempted to capture the island on picture, but the color intensity and depth was lacking more than often. While family and friends remarked at how beautiful our vacation pictures were, I knew the true essence of the island needs to be seen in person.

This is an island to be explored with nature walks, mountain hikes, visits to the natural reserves, boat trips to nearby island sanctuaries, drive through the world?s only ?drive through volcano, and a trip to the interior rainforest is a must! About the drive through volcano – you literally drive through the crater to over 15 pools of thick black bubbling lava. The smell is a bit overwhelming. In this region you will also find green and yellow sulfur steam coming up out of the ground, and pools of hissing steam – You can definitely feel the heat from the ground, and guides lead you around the hot stones.

Another interesting site outside of Soufriere is Diamond Waterfall and the Mineral Baths. Louis XVI sent a sample of the mineral water to France back in the late 1700?s to be tested, and it was deemed beneficial. We had a lovely time at the Mineral Baths, and admit I felt quite invigorated afterwards. Diamond Waterfall is near the baths, and this rivals many of the waterfalls on the island of Jamaica – simply beautiful!

The lush mountainous region is home to the rain forest which offers lush and colorful foliage. As you venture into the northern part of the island, mountains turn into lush hills, and orchards of banana, coconut, mango, citrus and papaya trees.

Aside from land tours, a half day or one-day sail around the island is recommended. From a small peninsula that extends from the southern tip of the island you can view where the rough Atlantic Ocean meets the calm Caribbean Sea. On a clear day you can even spot the tiny island of St Vincent. Another location advantage is you easily island hop to the islands of Martinique, Dominica and Guadeloupe.

The Eastern or Windward side of the island is on the Atlantic coast, and has big waves and surf, and swimming is not recommended, but the ocean views will be remembered far after your vacation is over.

The Western, or Leeward island side, is located on the Caribbean Sea, and the waves and waters are quite calm, and most of the beachfront resorts on located on this side of the island.

No matter which side of the island you choose, you will find the constant cooling trade wind breezes coming off the coast of Africa.

Getting to St Lucia can be challenging time wise depending on where you are starting from. Expect a minimum 5-6 hour trip from North America. One important aspect in booking your vacation is the proximity of the hotel to the airport. St Lucia has two airports, and the major airport (Hewanorra) on the southern tip of the island is where most of the air traffic from North America is directed. The smaller airport (George Charles) to the north of the island serves most of the smaller Caribbean air carriers. Of course the majority of the best known hotels are located on the north of the island.

Flying into Hewanorra airport on the southern end, and booking a hotel or resort on the northern end can result in a long 2 hour trip. Rather than look at the travel time to the hotel with dread, consider it a prime opportunity for an enjoyable island tour. The mountain route offers a more scenic view of the magnificent Pitons. The eastern route is faster, and you wind through hundreds of banana groves, and beautiful scenery. Take your pick, but I recommend the longer western route.

St Lucia is home to some of the most unique resorts, charming inns, guesthouses and romantic hideaways in the Caribbean. Two of the most unique are Ladera and Anse Chastanet.

Ladera offers an open wall concept with your own private pool. The western side of each unit is open to the view of the Pitons. It?s like staying in a luxury tree house, and as they said ?the only thing separating you from nature is the netting on your bed?.

Anse Chastanet is a luxury mountaintop retreat where every room offers something different – no two are alike. Most rooms are scattered in the lush hillside, and a few more expensive rooms are located on the beach. Be forewarned there are nearly 100 steps to the beach from the hillside.

Jalousie Plantation is located beneath the Pitons, and offers a very romantic, private location that is hard to match anywhere in the Caribbean. Another choice is the Windjammer Landing with your own secluded villa in a Mediterranean styled village setting.

The smaller hotels of Rodney Bay which are Caribbean Jewell, Coco Kreole, and Coco Palm offer a location that is within walking distance to shopping, restaurants and nightlife. Reduit beach is one of the prime attractions of Rodney Bay, which is also home to the European yachting community. Each of these smaller hotels has a unique charm, excellent service and moderate prices.

There are approximately eight all inclusive on this small island. Many Caribbean islands offer all inclusive properties where visitors are isolated and spend most of their time. St Lucia all inclusive celebrate the islands beauty and attractions, and make every effort to promote the islands beauty and culture. The most popular all inclusive are Sandals – which offers three different resorts, the Body Holiday Spa Resort, and Rendezvous – a popular, romantic couples only resort.

The beaches of St Lucia offer as much variety as the lush vegetation. There are black sand beaches where the sand is courser, soft white sand beaches, beaches of beige-grey and brown. One thing to remember – black sand heats up much faster than white sand, and your feet can get burned and blistered.

While the island is French in culture, English is widely spoken in the business and tourist areas. Elsewhere you will hear Creole, along with a French patois. The Creole spoken on the island is derived from the original slaves mixing their African language, along with French words. There is even a national holiday where every St Lucian is encouraged to speak Creole, and prepare Creole food dishes.

If you?re used to the typical steel drums and calypso of the Caribbean, you will find the French Caribbean has a taste for Zouk, African drumming, and also Soca. The French Caribbean is not as reserved as the islands with a British influence, and the English lyrics are quite explicit about current social norms – in other words you may be a little shocked at what you hear.

Zouk is a Creole word for ?party?, and is upbeat tempo with layered percussions and loud brass. You?ll hear Zouk mostly in the French Caribbean islands of St Lucia, Martinique and Guadeloupe. The beat is infectious, and you can?t help but dance or at least tap your feet.

Soca is a combination of calypso with a more up-tempo beat, and interestingly enough has its origins in a combination of calypso mixed with Indian rhythms from Trinidad and Tobago.

Not your typical Caribbean island! If I had to sum up what?s special about St Lucia, I would conclude the following – An exotic island paradise with unique resorts and romantic hideaways, great beaches, hiking, sailing and deep sea fishing. Also the island?s steep coastlines and excellent reef system offers world class snorkeling and scuba diving.

Linda Thompkins, Owner/Travel Consultant Travel 2 the Caribbean http://www.travel2thecaribbean.com

With the British summer seemingly here at last, the UK music festival season has managed to get off to a great start with RISE, Monsters of Rock, the Isle of White Festival and the recent T in the Park weekend. While Glastonbury will be much missed this year, there are many more great events across the country than even the most hardened festival goer can shake a muddy stick or tent peg at.

One of the best events in July has to be Wickerman. Although it has only been running for 4 years in Scotland, the ?Burning Man? inspired event has managed to firmly establish itself in the festival calendar as an alternative to the more commercial and mainstream events. If you are someone who likes their comfort, preferring short break holidays in a plush hotel, to mud and mayhem, then this is probably not for you. With the emphasis firmly on ?alternative lifestyle?, Wickerman consists of various organised events, alternative music, fire displays, acrobatics, and dancing, all leading up to the highlight of the festival which is the lighting of the eponymous 30ft high wickerman, which is specially constructed as a ?sacrifice to the festival gods?.

Another of July?s highlights is Womad (World Of Music And Dance). Womad was created in 1980 by Peter Gabriel and is a diverse and colourful cultural event aimed at the whole family, and features some of the best international as well as great British musical talent, alongside workshops, music and dance sessions and special events for children.

August is littered with so many great events it is difficult deciding which ones to attend:

- Big Chill is a stylish relaxed smaller scale festival than many of the other, with cool tunes, craft stalls, cinema tents, and street performers, against the great backdrop of the Malvern Hills. As the name suggests, the focus for the weekend is simply to chill out.

- V Festival, has become one of the biggest and most popular of the UK events, originally created by Richard Branson in 1996, the musical line up features current chart toppers, alongside breakthrough acts and big name established groups. This year Blur, Coldplay, The Chemical Brothers, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Morrissey and The Pixies are just a few of the huge names to be found gracing the various stages.

- The eighth annual Carling Festivals take place over the three day bank holiday weekend at the end of August. Rather than a single event, there are two different sites, one in Leeds and the other is the long running Reading Festival. Headliners this year are Franz Ferdinand, Muse, Pearl Jam, Kaiser Chiefs, Primal Scream, Maximo Park and the Arctic Monkeys.

- The Creamfields one day event in Liverpool has become the one of the biggest and most popular dance music festivals in the world, with a series of franchised events taking place across the globe. Always winning industry awards and offering big names, this year The Prodigy, Goldfrapp, The Zutons, Paul Oakenfold, Paul Van Dyk, Tiesto, DJ Shadow and Ferry Corsten are all confirmed to appear.

For those who want the full festival experience including camping onsite, remember to take a tent (Doh!) or camper van, bin bags, cash, toilet rolls, sleeping bag, sellotape or duct tape, drinks, and a mud resistant change of clothes. Also remember, whenever possible, not to leave valuables in your tent as possessions sometimes go missing, as do entire tents. Most of all however, remember to have a great time, whichever events you go to.

Submitted by: Michael Hanna

About Michael Michael is a keen writer, and internet marketer living in Scotland:

Contact details: E-mail: samqam@googlemail.com Phone: 0131 561 2251 Michael’s Website: Belfast Taxis

Spain is the largest of the three sovereign states that make up the Iberian Peninsula; Portugal and Andorra being the other two. Located in southwestern Europe, it is bordered by Portugal in the west, Gibraltar in the south, and France in the northeast. It is a country rich in culture and charm, appealing to a variety of ages and personalities because of the countless things you can do while there. Spanish is the official language, although a lot of its people can understand and speak simple English. Its rich culture and striking views, warm people and delectable food make Spain a top tourist destination.

While in Spain?

Experience the exotic and amazing Moorish influence when in the Alhambra in Granada, a vast complex that occupies the city center showcasing the rich Moorish culture spiced by Spain?s very own. The Alhambra in Grenada is what a lot of people consider to be the best preserved Moorish palace in Europe.

Visit any of Frank Gehry’s masterpieces – the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, the huge fish on Barcelona beach, the convention center in Malaga – all futuristic, contemporary and edgy, which are not only delightful to look at but are as tickling and inspiring as well.

Join the local village fiesta! Spanish culture is greatly influenced by Roman Catholicism which celebrates feast days of saints every so often. Although religious in nature, fiestas are actually enveloped in fun brought about by lively music, sumptuous feasts, colorful parades and fun get-togethers.

Taste the tapas, one of Spain’s delicacies that range from potato dishes, eggs, fish and seafood, stuffed vegetables, tortillas, savory pastries and are perfect when washed down by cold drinks in any of Spain’s tapas bars.

Tap your feet at the tune of Flamenco, a must do when in the Southern part of Spain.

Visit Salvador Dali’s surreal museum cum mausoleum in the northern part of Spain. Get to know other Spanish artists such as Diego Velasquez, Miro, Goya, Picasso?

Run with the bulls in Pamplona! Or better yet, watch from a safe distance.

Spain provides detailed information on Spain, Travel To Spain, Spain Golf, Spain Hotels and more. Spain is affiliated with Barcelona Soccer.

Few cities of the world can truly stir the emotions – romantic dreams, adventurous spirit, waves of excitement, even twinges of envy. Over time, they have become the inspiration for novels and films, the obsessions of ravenous warmongers, and the marketing tools of TV producers who flash their images across our screens to make us gush, Oh, this must be an important, credible international news program that covers the big stories as they happen and Smashing! This travel show really has been to the cool places, let’s see where they venture tonight.

However, you can only really say you’ve made it as a truly great city when they write a nursery rhyme about one of your bridges, even when it’s falling down. London is the ultimate survivor. It has endured and overcome conquests, wars, fires, plagues, terrorism, youth movements, repeated sporting defeats clutched from the hand of victory, even Chris De Burgh singing Lady in Red at the top of the charts for three weeks.

Through it all, Londoners have stood proud and defiant as they adapt and continue to build their fair city. One of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, this enormous city offers the traveler a blend of old and new worlds like nowhere else. On one hand London is innovative, energetic, dynamic, and outrageous; on the other, historic, conservative and frustratingly established. A bangers and mash of the anticipated and unexpected, but rarely the disappointing – and those who live here wouldn’t have it any other way.

Most people know a little about London even before they have been formally introduced. It may be the familiar symbols of Royals, bowler hats, well mannered cricketing gents, well heeled ladies, majestic castles, the flowing Thames, tennis at Wimbledon, afternoon tea and scones, monopoly board landmarks, West End theatre and East End humour that spring to mind. It could be the cobble-stoned streets of Dickens, passionate football fans, fish n chips drowning in vinegar, the labyrinth of the Underground, or the cultural phenomena and festivals celebrating music over decades starting in the swinging 60′s, through punk of the 70′s, new romantic hairdo’s of the 80′s, and pop, indie rock, dance and hip hop of the 90′s and beyond.

More than this, the city is renowned for its wealth of history and culture. As home to Britain’s national art collections, striking architecture, over 200 museums, the worlds premier theatre productions, 5 major orchestras, 2 major opera companies; there is something for visitors of all historic and artistic persuasions. Anyone familiar with television shows and films set in the city might be forgiven for thinking we spend all our time in our local pub telling jokes and hard luck stories, or doing deals on goods that conveniently fell off the back of a truck.

In fact, there are more parks and green space in London than in any city of its size in the world, where we wander, picnic, and play, away from the bustle of big city living – before the pub opens anyway. The city is a shop-a-holics nirvana – just ask any female armed with a credit card and the lamest of excuses for a spending spree. From major department stores to designer boutiques and street markets, if you can’t find it in London, it probably doesn’t exist. And once you’ve lugged all that booty back to your hotel, there are hundreds of restaurants, pubs, cinemas, nightclubs, live music and comedy venues to keep you entertained well into the early hours. London has also embraced multiculturalism like very few places in the world. It has become a cultural melting pot with over 10 million people from all over the world now calling it home.

The integration of western cultures with people from Africa, West Indies, and all over Asia has transformed the city into one of the most diverse destinations for first time travelers, and the hundreds of thousands who return year after year. Just stop right there, old chap I hear you say. This is all rather charming, stirring and patriotic, but you’ve failed to even mention how damn expensive the place is! Actually, we were just getting to that part.

It’s true. London is one of the most expensive cities in the world, painfully so for some. In fact, it’s rumored that instead of using whips and chains, London dominatrix now just stand about looking very stern while converting international clients travel expenses from the merciless English Pound into their submissive local currency with a leather-bound calculator. Ouch! London is great fun so if you are visiting or planning to visit you will have a wonderful time.

Gareth Owen is the Owner and originator of London Vacation Guide. For more information and resources on visiting London please go to http://www.londonvacationguide.com

The sheer beauty of Budapest city is sure to overwhelm any visitor. The Danube River divides the city in two. Budapest never fails to surprise and enthrall in equal measure. Budapest retains its unique character with the hospitality just exactly the same whether it is the locals or the Budapest hotels. A Budapest tour has many tourist attractions, museums and art galleries which can be interspersed with day trips to a few small, picturesque towns.

Getting around to viewing the sights of Budapest is best done on the metro. Not only is it fast and efficient but also relatively inexpensive, more so if one purchases a one or three day travel card. One can make use of an interactive map to be familiar with the layout and orientation of Budapest?s main thoroughfares and individual streets so as to easily reach the places of interest.

On a sight seeing trip one can start off by going around the Belvaros (Pest Inner City). Follow this up with a longer walking trip to explore the historic sights in Buda?s Castle District. Another area to view on a sightseeing trip to the city is moving along the Pest embankment from Parliament before crossing the Margit Bridge into Buda?a Vizivaros district. One can then walk along part of the Nagykorut before finally heading towards the Varosliget (City Park).

http://www.stayreshungary.com/budapest-city-info.htm

Traveling in a new place is usually not an easy task. It would be much better to utilize your traveling time more efficiently if you could have a more understanding on the transportation facilities of your destination. This article introduces four types of transportation facilities in Paris which gives travelers to have a more in-depth understanding on Paris?s transportation services.

1. Metro and RER
Metro is the subway in the city while the RER (Reseau Express Regional) is the railway in the rural area. The subway service of Paris is started in 1900. Up to the present moment, there are 13 routes of subway and 4 routes of RER with total 367 stations which covers most parts of Paris. Therefore, if you could get used to the subway systems of Paris, it would be much leisure to travel around without any difficulties. The ticket fair inside city is unified as 7 Frs. for a single trip (billet). Ten- piece ticket booklet (carnet) is charged at 41 Frs. Besides, there is a Paris-Visite Billet which is specially designed for tourists. It is a pass for subway, RER and bus within a pre-set period of time. If you are staying in Paris for a longer period of time, you could choose to use the monthly ticket or the weekly ticket so that you take the subway, RER and bus whenever you like. Please be reminded that you have to take with you a personal photo (27 mm x 30 mm) in applying the fixed-time ticket in the station (guichet). Besides, it should be aware that the effective period of the monthly ticket is fixed from the first day to the last day of the month, and likewise Monday to Sunday for the weekly ticket. Therefore, you should count on the date when you buy the fixed-time ticket that how much the effective period is remaining.

2. Taxi
Taxi is the most convenient transportation as you could take it in any place. Usually it is easier to get the taxi in the taxi station (Tete de Taxi) in the main streets, hotel or the stations. Most of the taxi drivers are very familiar with the streets, and they could take you to your destination as long as you could mention you address clearly. Please be aware that the front seat is not for passenger, and one taxi could take 3 passengers in principal.

3. Public Bus
Most of the Paris residents like to take the public bus, but it seems to be quite difficult for tourists as they may not recognize the place to take off. However, you could enjoy the street scenery in taking the bus whereas the subway could not offer. Please be aware that you have to buy the ticket rather than just put the coins in. If you do not have a ticket, you have to tell the driver your destination, buy the ticket and put in the ticket cutter. Actually, you could use the subway ticket in taking the bus. You could just show your fixed-time subway ticket to the driver and you could get on and take off at any station you like. There is no station broadcasting service inside the bus and you have to ring the bell in advance before taking off. Therefore, it is suggested to take a bus road map at the information counter in the subway station, and find out the bus station name of your destination before you take the bus.

4. Tourist Ferry (Bateaux-Paris-ens)
Departure pier is at the Pont d?Iena which is near the Eiffel Tower. The cruise services could be divided as with and without meal provided. A single trip without meal provided is about 45 Frs. and the service hours are 10:00- 22:00 in summer time (depart in every 30 minutes) whereas 10:00-18:00 in wintertime (depart in every 1 hour). A lunch provided trip is about 300 Frs., departs at 12:30 while a dinner provided trip is about 550 Frs. departs at 20:30. Passenger must make advance booking for the meal provided cruise service and with formal attire on the trip.

About the Author: Sammy Ho has been a specialist traveler who has traveled many parts of the world. His specialists are to study different culture and living hobbies of different countries, and to learn from each place he has traveled. To find more travelers tips, hotel information and flight information in Paris, please visit website: http://geniuschoice.com/flight-paris/

Jamaica is blessed with all the qualities of a world-class golf destination. In addition to excellent year-round weather, the topography, lush vegetation and scenic beauty of our tropical island also encourages creative golf course designs by imaginative golf course architects. Jamaica is also famous for its caddies: lively, entertaining, experienced, dedicated – with an uncanny ability to track down wayward shots and to read the breaks on even the trickiest greens. We invite you to play our courses for yourself for an unforgettable golfing experience:

Montego Bay is the island’s golf capital boasting five championship golf courses, premium hotel accommodations, an international airport served by several major airlines, beaches and other recreational, shopping and entertainment facilities.

SuperClubs Ironshore

The former Ironshore Golf & Country Club is a links-style, par-72 course. Once referred to as Jamaica’s gem in the rough, it’s a demanding course with plenty of doglegs and bunkers to challenge your A-game. Since January 2000, SuperClubs has been polishing that gem. A beautifully decorated new clubhouse was built and a massive course renovation completed. The greens are in their best condition in 20 years, locals say. The 6,570-yard layout delivers what is expected – an entertaining golf experience, with several water encounters and a number of interesting blind shots. Fairways are separated by tall, frilly Australian pines, as well as flowering hibiscus and bough.

Half Moon

Designed by the renowned Robert Trent Jones Sr., the course opened in 1961 and since has firmly established itself as one of prized courses that the Caribbean has to offer. Measuring a massive, 7,119 yards from the back tees, it has been selected as host venue for several professional and amateur tournaments, including the Jamaican Open and the Dunhill Cup. The course boasts some of the trademark Jones features, including runway tees and use of the land’s movement or the ‘figure eight’ routing that cleverly changes angles just enough to cause bewilderment on the windy days. The greens also demand special attention: while they are very playable, their shape and contour often force the better golfer to work the ball to get their approaches close to tucked pins, while leaving an opening for the novice player to run the ball in.

Cinnamon Hill

One instinctively marvels at the parcel of land on which Robert von Hagge-designed Cinnamon Hill GC (formerly Three Palms), at the Wyndham Rose Hall. On an island blessed with lushness and topographical character, and short on acreage, the layout moves from an open, windswept front nine into the lower elevations of the Blue Mountains on the back nine, where dense foliage traps the fairways of the incoming holes. Boasting interesting, serene, descriptive and sometimes downright intimidating names each hole has its own intriguing characteristics and is sure to leave behind a memorable experience. The surrounding scenery at #15 Mountain Falls is so striking, that a scene was shot here for the James Bond film Live and Let Die. The course is built on what was once a 400-acre plantation, and remnants of the area’s history, including aqueducts, gravestones, and ruins of historic homes, offer a crumbling reminder of a land that once breathed a life of its own, long before golf.

White Witch

Locals are quick to say that Annie Palmer still haunts the Rose Hall Great House and the estate- including the course built there on the grounds. The White Witch Course, designed by the team of Robert Von Hagge, Rick Baril and Mike Smelek, opened in August 2000 as the centerpiece of the new Ritz Carlton Rose Hall Resort. Instead of traditional tropical terrain, the layout is mountainous and rugged. The 6,718-yard course sticks to the high ground where there are cool breezes and ocean views on 16 holes. This elevated route can be intimidating, with its carries over jungle-like terrain, but the course intertwines with the mountains and provides golfers with some of the best views of the coastline.

Tryall

Tryall’s 18-hole, Ralph Plummer-designed championship course has played host to such prestigious international events as the Johnnie Walker World Championship, last won by Fred Couples in 1995. With holes that kiss the shoreline and flirt with the edges of jungle ravines, it is probably the most celebrated golf course in the Caribbean. The course stretches 6,772 yards from the ocean-side up into forested hills, past coconut groves, and back down to the sea along a route lined with flowering plants and magnificent trees. The signature par-three 4th hole incorporates the natural challenges of the Caribbean Sea and the Flint River, while the memorable par-four 7th hole provides a dramatic tee-shot through the stone pillars of the historic aqueduct that feeds the adjacent waterwheel. Tryall’s homeowners, many associated with the club for generations, have preserved the atmosphere of charming gentility that has been modernized out of many other historic properties.

Negril Hills

Nestled in the hills minutes away from Negril’s famous seven-mile white-sand beach, golf enthusiasts will find this relaxed resort’s hidden gem- the Negril Hills Golf Club. Famous for its elevated tees and greens, undulating fairways and emerald ponds, this layout promises an enjoyable round that’s a perfect break from Negril’s sand and sea. Built in 1993 by Robert Simmons, this 18-hole course spans 6,333 yards, cut into Negril’s low, rolling hills. This topography makes for fast play, with snaking fairways and mildly sloping greens. It also reveals fleeting views of Negril’s distant golden sands and calm seas. Along the fairways, coconut and other tropical trees dance in the soft sea breezes wafting in from the coast. This course is characterized by water hazards, boasting nine ponds that all come into play. Marshlands and sandtraps also lurk throughout the course, waiting to claim wayward balls.

Runaway Bay GC

The par 72 course was designed by Major John Harris from Britain and opened in 1960. From the Blue Tees, the course measures a long 6,870 yards with a slope rating of 124. The combination of the wind gusting up to 35 miles per hour, long rolling fairways with large flat greens and breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, guarantee that golfers can expect an exhilarating experience whether they are beginners or accomplished players. The PGA-quality golf course has hosted many an international event including the MatchPlay games between the United Kingdom and the West Indies, the Jamaica Open and the World Cup of Golf Super-qualifier tournaments.

Sandals Ocho Rios

Formerly known as Upton Golf Club, the Sandals Golf & Country Club was established in 1951 as a 9 hole course located 700 feet above sea level in Upton, a few miles east of Ocho Rios. The original 9-hole layout which, designed by P.K. Saunders, was expanded in the early 1960s to 18 holes. In June 1992, Sandals Resorts purchased the property and set about creating one of the most elite golf courses in Jamaica. The greens were rebuilt with Tifdwarf Bermuda grass and the fairways resurfaced with Bermuda grass. Although comparatively short- 6311 yards, par 71 from the Blue Tees, the course makes for a challenging 128 slope.

Manchester

Carved into the rolling hills near Mandeville more than a century ago, the Manchester Country Club is Jamaica’s and the Caribbean’s oldest golf course. Boasting 140 years of history, it is easily the most unique in Jamaica with it’s nine greens and 18 tee locations. Founded as a Country Club in 1865 and soon after the Scots invented the game of golf, a golf course was built on the site. It is situated in the middle of the town of Mandeville, the capital of Manchester and has one of the most breath-taking scenic wonders, provided by the course’s 2201 foot elevation. Although it is a private members club, it is open to the public and is one of Mandeville’s main tourist attractions.

Caymanas

Located 9 miles outside Kingston, Caymanas GC rests in the foothills of St. Catherine and overlooks the parish’s verdant cane fields, stretching all the way to Kingston Harbour. Designed by well-known Canadian architect, Howard Watson, in the 1950s, the course’s hilly environment is brilliantly incorporated in the layout. Several of the 18 tee boxes are elevated while the fairways undulate in accordance to the topography of the craggy limestone hills. Stately Cotton and Guango trees line the fairways and guard the greens throughout the course’s 6,844 yards, creating daunting natural hazards. Strategically placed bunkers and ponds also make for more challenging play. The Club, which hosted several Caribbean Championships, including the Jamaican Open, the Jamaica Classic and Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf, is sloped at 123 from the Blue Tees and measures 6,844 yards.

Constant Spring

Located in the heart of one of Kingston’s nicest residential areas, Constant Spring was built in 1920 by Scottish architect Stanley Thompson, a mentor of Robert Trent Jones, making it one of Jamaica’s oldest golf courses. It is a tight, short course with a breathtaking view at the 13th tee, and the challenge of driving to a narrow plateau of fairway beyond a steep valley. It has hosted all of the island’s top players, many of the socially elite and more than a few concerts during its long history.

The Jamaica Golf Association, comprised of individual golfing members and golf clubs islandwide, is at the forefront of the drive to develop the game of golf for a better Jamaica.

David Leadbetter Golf Academy – Half Moon

The Academy combines the finest golf instruction available on one of Jamaica’s most challenging courses. Created by one of the masters in the art of teaching the golf swing, David Leadbetter has a unique ability to communicate and a profound dedication to the game. He is known for rebuilding Nick Faldo’s fabled swing and has worked with Ernie Els, Greg Norman and Nick Price, and has developed an exclusive group of teaching professionals to give tour-proven advice to ambitious golfers at all stages of development.

Cable & Wireless National Golf Academy

Kingston’s bustling business and entertainment hub, New Kingston, is also fast becoming the capital city’s recreational sporting center thanks in part to the addition of Cable and Wireless’ National Golf Academy. Located on lands with a view of New Kingston’s towering buildings and the distant Blue Mountains, the National Golf Academy is the island’s first public driving range and putting green. Spanning an impressive 240 yards, the driving range plays like a real golf course with undulating fairways, 6 manicured greens and well-placed holes, bunkers and ponds. From the Academy’s 23 bays you may practice your swing and drive, or on the adjacent putting green, you can hone you short game skills.

**for more information visit http://www.jam-boree.com/, Jamaica’s visitor website, the complete source for travel and tourism information featuring hand-picked deals on vacation packages, hotels, villas, flights and car rentals**

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