Traveling To Mexico? Be Sure To Understand The New Travel Requirements

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Thursday 6 August 2009 10:54 am

Making plans to travel to Mexico this year? Is a Mexico family vacation in your future, or are you looking to take a little time for rest and relaxation on the sandy white beaches of Cancun or Puerto Vallarta? Well, your timing is right. It promises to be another fantastic year south of the border for all of the major Mexico resort hot spots! In fact, 16 million Americans will probably visit Mexico this year.

Be sure you are prepared before you travel, as there have been some new requirements issued by the U.S. State Department. Although it?s a minor change from prior travel requirements, it affects all U.S. citizens entering the United States from countries within the Western Hemisphere who do not currently possess valid passports. Essentially, all that is required is a passport, which most frequent travelers have anyway. The goal? To make it safer for you and to strengthen United States border security.

Here are some important facts you should know:

?The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 requires that by January 1, 2008, travelers to and from the Caribbean, Bermuda, Panama, Mexico and Canada have a passport or other secure, accepted document to enter or re-enter the United States.

?In the proposed implementation plan, which is subject to a period of initial public comment, the Initiative will be rolled out in phases, providing as much advance notice as possible to the affected public to enable them to meet the terms of the new guidelines.

?The proposed timeline will be as follows:

December 31, 2006 – Requirement applied to all air and sea travel to or from Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.

December 31, 2007 – Requirement extended to all land border crossings as well as air and sea travel.

The Easy Way to get a Passport

First, when applying for a passport, make sure you allow enough time! It typically takes 6 weeks to process a passport application. Where can you apply for a passport? The State Department provides a handy search tool to help you find the Passport Acceptance Facility nearest you. What?s the busiest time for passport processing? Usually between January and July. Of course, if you have an emergency and need to travel to Mexico right away, the State Dept does offer some options. Go to their website at http://www.travel.state.gov/passport/passport1738.html, or call the U.S. National Passport Information Center: 1-877-4USA-PPT

Additional Tips for Travel to Mexico

?Be sure to leave your travel itinerary and passport information with a friend or relative in case the originals are lost. It can also be helpful to carry a copy of your travel documents with you in a separate location from the originals.
?Avoid traveling with large amounts of cash. Credit cards are widely accepted and most areas visited by tourist will have an ATM machine. These are great options because they are safe, convenient and you get a favorable exchange rate. Another option is to use traveler?s checks.
?Using a fanny pack or travelers wallet for your cash and passport is a great idea.
?While they are making great strides in improving the water quality throughout Mexico, it is advisable to drink bottled water. In addition, avoid drinking beverages over ice as the ice may have been made from tap water.
?Wash vegetables and fruits in a purifying solution of some type.
?Before leaving, check with your health insurance provider so that you are aware of your coverage.
?If you are planning to drive over the border be sure to obtain a temporary import permit and all the necessary insurance.

So now that you?ve been informed, what are you waiting for? Mexico is a land of incredible beauty and natural wonder! Whether you?re going to sunny Cancun, festive Acapulco, or even Puerto Vallarta, your perfect Mexican vacation getaway is just a flight away!

This article was written by Jon Wuebben, of Custom Copywriting. Jon writes select pieces about travel in Mexico for the CasaMagna Marriott Cancun Resort.

Finding Places To Stay When Visiting Hong Kong

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Thursday 6 August 2009 6:54 am

Hong Kong is an eclectic mix of Chinese and British influences mixed with a massive amount of adrenaline. Fortunately, you can find places to stay when visiting Hong Kong without much problem.

Finding Places to Stay When Visiting Hong Kong

Hong Kong is both a modern and ancient city. First appearances reveal a modern metropolis teaming with commerce, crowds and traffic you would expect to find in any major city in the world. Walk down an alley, however, and you will find all kinds of oddities and a feel for the underlying currents of the city. Big business is done in Hong Kong, but so is a unique way of life. Whichever you pursue, you will need a good base to survive this hectic city.

Place to stay in Hong Kong come in all types of quality, shapes and prices. There are really cheap youth hostels with lots of ?character? and five star luxury hotels that would make an emperor blush. Universally, the accommodations are smaller than you would expect in other parts of the world. You can expect rooms to be smaller than Thailand, but a bit bigger than what you find in Japan for corresponding prices.

Luxury lodgings are primarily located on Hong Kong Island. Hong Kong Island is the central area of Hong Kong, the location you see in pictures of the massive skyline. It is situated on an amazingly thin strip of land between the ocean and mountains. If you are doing business in Hong Kong, this is where you want to stay as most of the major commerce centers are on the island. There are a bevy of five star places offering accommodations. In truth, your choice is limited only by your budget.

If you are looking for cheaper accommodations in Hong Kong, Kowloon and the New territories offer a variety of sources. You can even find hostels on Hong Kong Island. Put another way, accommodations are plentiful regardless of where you are. Hong Kong is a major transportation hub for Asia, so it caters to all budgets.

Finding a place to stay in Hong Kong is a piece of cake. Figure out where you want to stay and then shop around to find the best prices.

Rick Chapo is with NomadJournals.com – makers of travel journals. Visit NomadJournalTrips.com to read more Internet travel articles about travel hotel – Hong Kong.

The Parador Of Jarandilla De La Vera Spain

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Thursday 6 August 2009 2:54 am

The Parador of Jarandilla De La Vera is a place distinct in the history of Spain. Holy Roman Emperor Charles V – the most powerful man in the world during his reign – lived here in the Parador building for a few months before retiring to live out his remaining time in the Monastery at Yuste.

He chose this spot for it’s tranquility and natural beauty. The area, on the southern slope of the Gredos mountains, is abundant with streams, waterfalls, and oak woods – producing a scenery of rare beauty. The soil is rich and fertile. There are gardens, apple and pear orchards everywhere. It has been called a paradise, and The best place for repose, and for the pleasures of mind and body.

The 4-star Parador of Jarandilla de la Vera is a fortified palace built in the 15th century. It was constructed over the ruins of a fortress that had been built and inhabited by the Knights Templar. It has all that a castle should have; a draw-bridge, machicolations, embrasures, and robust corner towers. Parador Jarandilla is in an Italian Renaissance style however, with an interior sweetness and graciousness missing in the earlier true fortress style castles.

There is a fine dining room with views out to the open cloister (you can dine al fresco during the warmer months). Wooden ceilings and a baronial fireplace in the reception area give this place an altogether ‘noble’ feel.

Interesting excursions from Parador Jarandilla into the city:

- See the 15th century Church on the main plaza.

- The area immediately surrounding the town is very good for hiking – several different marked trails lead along rushing streams to waterfalls and miniature gorges.

Interesting day trips include:

- Explore over to the Jerte valley – there are a couple of scenic (if not harrowing!) roads that cross over, or you can drive around through Placensia. If you are here in spring, the valley is blanketed in white – with thousands of cherry trees in bloom.

- Placensia is a typical Extremaduran town with a wonderful main plaza. Sit down at one of the many outdoor tables and wait and watch the giant elf (?) in the main clock tower strike the bell to mark each half hour. A cuckoo clock on the grandest of scales! There is a lively Tuesday market held here in the plaza – as it has been continuously since the 12th century!

Visiting the Parador of Jarandilla De La Vera is an experience long cherished by those who have gone out of their way to get to this nearly forgotten backwater of Spain.

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. www.SpainParador.com

Places In Paris To Romance Your Love

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Wednesday 5 August 2009 10:54 pm

Like Venice, Paris has always been a magnet for lovers and their affairs. As Woody Allen put it: As long as you haven’t been kissed during any of those rainy Parisian afternoons, you haven’t been kissed at all. Paris is where sleepy marriages are rekindled, the flames of passion ignited, vows renewed, and special someones met. But where will you get the most ardent thrill?

Finding your cafe terrace

I will start with an obvious spot: the sidewalk cafe terrace. There are thousands of such in Paris, and lovebirds are a common sight there. The cafe terrace is an enjoyable spot in more than one way. First, they offer a nice resting spot. Second, they make an ideal observatory. The streets become an aquarium, passer-bys are the fish, and you two become the observers. Third, sit down at a terrace where other couples are smooching, and you are part of a community setting a good example to the rest of the world. For all we need is love!

One of my favorite cafes is ‘Les Chevaux de Marly’, inside the Louvre Museum, facing the wing where the Da Vinci Code movie was filmed. Les Chevaux de Marly isn’t your typical sidewalk cafes; the place reeks history, and even when you sit outside you are well protected against the elements thanks to the stone parapet.

Now if you are a die-hard fan of the Latin Quarter, and the St Germain des Pres area, you will certainly want to sit at the terrace of ‘Les Deux Magots’ (A Pair of Old Bachelors). French philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre and his wife, writer Simone de Beauvoir, used to hole up there in the 50s. Rather large and well protected by a long awning, the terrace is a great spot to observe the foot traffic moving along the busy Boulevard St Germain. The atmosphere inside the cafe has kept some of its mid-20th century flavor. A tad on the expensive side, but history and a great view have a price, haven’t they?

More suggestions? Check out the following areas, you’ll find nice cafes: ‘Butte aux Cailles’ (in the 13th district), ‘Place de la Contrescarpe’ (in the 5th district), ‘Place des Abbesses’ (on the Montmartre Hill), and the perennial cafe facing the Pont St Louis, on Ile St Louis, near Quai de Bourbon.

Cool streets to roam

I always advise my friends who take the trip to Paris to discover the city on foot. Walking is the absolute best way to enjoy sightseeing in Paris. And ‘look up’ must be your operative word. Don’t just look at eye level: raise your eyes, and observe what’s above. The ‘upper floor’ scenery is worth it.

For romancing the love of your life, certain places have these very special qualities which will set them apart in your memories of togetherness. I will tell you about three for now, and there will be more to come.

Atop my list, ‘Place Furstemberg’. From the plaza of the St Germain Church, walk toward the Seine and Rue Bonaparte. Turn right into Rue de l’Abbaye. Follow the street to the first short alley on your left. Turn and you end up on ‘Place Furstemberg’. French painter Eugene Delacroix had his studio there, and this makes an interesting spot to visit during daytime. But ‘Place Furstemberg’ takes a whole other atmosphere at night. It is quiet, isolated, and sort of private. The nearby abbey lends it a historical feel. Sitting under the trees, the wooden benches welcome eternal lovers.

My second pick would be the steep flights of stairs leading up to the top of the Montmartre Hill, and the quaint streets below ‘Place du Tertre’. Here again, you would be well inspired to discover the hill during the day, and come back to it in the evening. Montmartre is one of the last areas in Paris to have retained their ‘olden days’ feel. Strolling around the hill at night gives you a whiff of what Paris was like in the late 1800s. Most definitely one of the very best spots to roam hand in hand, stealing a kiss here and there under the quiet glow of the street lights.

As a final destination for this short trip, let me take you to the park located at the tip of ‘Ile de la Cite’. This is the largest of the two islands, and the small park named ‘Square du Vert Galant’ takes its name from King Henri the 4th, a womanizer in his own right (‘Galant’ alludes to his reputation as a smooth talker, and ‘Vert’ means the guy was ‘always ready to fire’). Walk to the ‘Pont Neuf’ bridge, go down the flight of stairs opening behind Henri’s statue, and you will wind up on the wharf. There, lined with century-old trees, the park offers a magnificent view of the river Seine and the Louvre Museum. I recommend discovering the spot together during daytime. It is also the port of call of a boat tour operator. Seize this opportunity to boat upstream and downstream. Don’t forget to bring an extra sweater, the temperature at water level is chillier.

More romantic places

I love a good romance, and I would love to contribute to yours in my own way. So I’ll write more about these special Parisian spots in further installments to this series. Meanwhile, you will find more resources on the website Paris-Eiffel-Tower-News. Till then, I wish your couple to grow even stronger.

About the Author:
After 30 years spent in Paris, Phil Chavanne knows the city in and out. As the Senior Editor of Paris-Eiffel-Tower-News he shares with you his experience of Paris from the inside.

Rio De Janeiro

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Wednesday 5 August 2009 6:55 pm

For a vacationer looking for a city to holiday in that offers unparalleled pleasure, the city of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil is one of the best choices. The city of Rio de Janeiro is a melting pot of races, colors and creeds. Rio de Janeiro is a Portuguese term meaning, River of January.

Rio was the country?s capital until 1960 and is the second largest city in Brazil after Sao Paolo. The residents of the city are known as Cariocas. They have made extensive contributions in the fields of history, culture, music and literature, particularly when Rio de Janeiro was the federal capital and the hub of Brazilian growth.

Rio is famous for its hotel-lined tourist beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. The best way to enjoy in the city is by organizing a trip to Sugar Loaf Mountain or P?o de A??car. The mountain offers a spectacular view of Rio and Guanabara Bay and is a paradise for rock climbers. It also has the biggest forest found inside an urban region, called Floresta da Tijuca, or ‘Tijuca Forest’.

Christo Redentor, the statue of Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado Mountain, is a 38-meter statue of Jesus overlooking the city of Rio. The statue has become a symbol of the city and reflects the warmth of the Brazilian people.

Perhaps, at no time is the city’s festive reputation better displayed than during the annual carnival, which enlivens the city for 4 whole days with music, singing, parties, balls and street parades of brilliantly costumed samba dancers.

For a true football fan, a visit to the Maracana Stadium carries the importance of going a pilgrimage. They can lay their feet in the imprints of football greats like Pele and other Brazilian legends.

Rio?s unique landscape, with a magnificent bay and dazzling beaches on one side and a rising mountain range on the other, justifies its title of Cidade Maravilhosa, or ?Marvelous City?. With its world famous beaches, splendid bay and wonderful climate, Rio de Janeiro has achieved a reputation as a great tourist destination.

Rio De Janeiro provides detailed information on Rio De Janeiro, Beaches In Rio De Janeiro, Rio De Janeiro Hotels, Rio De Janeiro Carnival and more. Rio De Janeiro is affiliated with Caracas Venezuela.

Malaysia Hotels: Playing A Good Role

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Wednesday 5 August 2009 2:54 pm

Malaysia has been a fantastic destination in the world right from the time of its discovery. Anyone can hardly resist the temptation of visiting this country if he or she gets an opportunity. Shopping centers, historical heritage and magnificent atmosphere, everything is available at the tip of your finger in this country. The most important aspect of this unique country is its diversity both in terms of population and culture. Malyas, Chinese, Indian and immigrants from several other parts of the world make this county a cosmopolitan state.

It is full of gorgeous destinations. If you ever wish to be at a place where you can enjoy the best of both modern and natural wonders, Malaysia may prove to be the most suitable place for you. Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Perak, Miri, Pulao Tioman and many others worth visiting destinations in the country entice the tourists of every place. Plethora of Islands, modern cities and natural assets graces Malaysia with an eternal beauty. There would hardly be anyone who is unsatisfied with arrangements, assets and behavior of the locals in any part of the country. Malaysia has been a shopping paradise for shopping freaks.

But one thing that plays an important role in making Malaysia a hot favorite destination is the availability of magnificent hotels. There is no doubt that these comfortable accommodations satisfy every need of every visitor. Wherever you are in Malaysia, you will never have to put an extra effort in searching for a hotel that is suitable to you and to your pocket. Malaysia hotels are equipped with all modern amenities and render complete comfort.

For more information visit: http://www.stayresmalaysia.com

Niraj Singh is working as Sr. SEO in Binary Semantics Ltd. Gurgaon, India. He has 5 yrs. of experience in the field of Search Engine Optimisation. His expertise is in the travel domain make him specialist in the field of Websites related to Travels.

Tourism And Hotel Industry Representatives Say No To Proposed &quotBed Tax&quot

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Wednesday 5 August 2009 10:54 am

Current plans to introduce a ?Bed Tax? have been roundly criticized by the hotel and tourism industry. The plan is being proposed as part of a national Government tax review of local government funding and would see a 10% tax surcharge being levied per night on top of the already existing 17.5% VAT.

The plan follows on from a report last year for the Association of London Government, which represents 32 boroughs, which described the tax as, an ideal minor tax in that it relates to a group that imposes clear costs on authorities but which presently contributes nothing directly towards those costs.

The current proposals, as they stand, could raise the cost of a short UK break by up to ?100 for the average family. While the UK is already, throughout Europe, second only to Denmark in the severity of its taxation levels for tourism, the newly proposed tax would put Britain firmly above the Danes making it the highest taxed holiday destination in the EU, nearly three times the European average.

The idea which is presently under consideration by Sir Michael Lyons, who is tasked to review the plans for future local government financing, however the Liberal Democrats warned that implementing such a move could be disastrous for the entire ?12bn UK tourism sector.

Liberal Democrat culture spokesman Don Foster told the BBC, When you think that VAT on tourist-related activities in this country is 17.5 per cent, whereas in the rest of Europe it is 8.5 per cent and in countries like France 5.5 per cent, these tourists use services, but they are certainly already paying for them.

Industry news publisher Caterer and Hotelkeeper has been joined by the UK hotel big hitter, Travelodge, along with the British Hospitality Association (BHA) and the Tourism Alliance (an umbrella group of 45 trade associations), to formally lobby against the plans. Another hotel industry heavyweight, Hilton, spokeswoman said the company strongly supported the BHA’s efforts.

While Travelodge has set up its own online petition, the deputy chief executive of the BHA, Martin Couchman, said the organisation encouraged its members to lobby independently, a message which online UK hotel directory Superbreak has taken to heart, with its own petition, in an ongoing campaign to bring prices down.

A recent Travelodge survey of 2,000 UK consumers, revealed that 85% already believe UK hotels are too expensive, a perception that will only be exacerbated by a 10% price hike. Current predictions by the tourist industry indicate the impact of the tax could lead to the possible loss of up to ?1.3bn and 32,000 jobs if the tax were to be introduced.

Don Foster commented, We have got a problem and anything like a bed tax that would put people off from coming to this country would be a real disaster.

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: Taxi Belfast Airport Belfast Taxis

Budapest A Quick Guide

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Wednesday 5 August 2009 6:54 am

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary. The city is located in the central northern part of the country and it is home to a population of 1.7 million. The city is crossed by the River Danube, with Buda on the right bank and Pest on the left. Budapest boasts a rich history and the area was first settled by the Celts. However the first recorded history occurred later in 84AD when Romans settled in the area. Around 900BC, the settlement was occupied by the Central Asian Magyars – linguistic and cultural ancestors of today?s Hungarians. Pest was invaded by the Mongols in 1241, while the Austrian Habsburg rulers were declared Kings of Hungary in 1526. The Ottoman Empire conquered the city in 1541, but Budapest was recaptured by the Habsburg rulers in 1686. During World War II, between 20% and 40% of the city?s Jewish population were killed under Nazi occupation.

Despite Budapest?s turbulent history, the city is a bustling and welcoming place with plenty to offer visitors. Some attractions within Buda, include Margaret Island ? which is a large, beautiful park. The area of Castle Hill offers numerous fascinating museums and galleries, as well as delightful walks around the winding, picturesque streets. The caves found within the hills of Buda are another popular attraction. The two major caves, P?lv?lgy and Szeml? Hill are particular favourites of intrepid travellers. Pest features the impressive Andr?ssy ?t Boulevard, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some attractions along the boulevard include the stunning State Opera House and the beautiful City Park. The city is also famed for its numerous spas, and popular bathing spots include the Sz?ch?nyi and the Gell?rt Baths. Budapest is a vibrant, modern city with a lively caf? culture. There are a huge number of cafes where visitors can relax, people-watch and soak up the unique and charming athmosphere of the city.

Dara Ward operates over 150 travel websites including Hotels in Budapest He has extensive experience in the field of online travel. Dara also operates Hotels in Frankfurt.

Sharmelsheikh For Sun Sand Sea And Mountains

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Wednesday 5 August 2009 2:54 am

Sharm El Sheikh is heady mix of sun, sand and mountains located on a promontory at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula along the Red Sea in Egypt at the mouth of the Gulf of Aqaba.

Owing to the many peace conferences held there it is also called ?The City of Peace?

Being located at a strategic location sharm as it is popularly known was used by the Egyptian navy as a port and naval base until it was captured by Israeli forces in 1956 but restored to Egypt subsequently in 1967.

In the past it was a small fishing village until it became a naval base and today it is a commercial hub and a stunning and magnificent landscaped beach resort. It is also home to a number of sulphur springs, which have therapeutic value.

The virgin fossilized coral reefs in the red sea put the small fishing village and naval base of Sharm El Sheikh on the world map. Sharm El Sheikh has three protected areas- the Ras Muhammad Natural Protected Park, St. Katherine National Park and Nabq Protected area. To gain access to these areas you have to take permission from the tourism department and respective authorities.

If you are interested in taking a diving course while in sharm el sheikh, there are a number of private companies offering the course along with a PADI- Professional Diving Instructors Certificate at a very cheap price!

Like Nuweiba, sharm is also roughly divided into three parts- Na?ama Bay, Ras Um Sid Cliff and Sharm al Maya.

Na?ama Bay

This is long sandy bay home to one of the first hotels of the area built in the eighties. Today it is fully developed bay with a beautiful paved walkway lined with bougainvillea and oleander along the entire stretch of the bay.

Ras Um Sid Cliff

The cliff links the Na?ama Bay and Sharm El Maya centrally located from both the bay and Sharm El Maya. It has magnificent view from atop overlooking the sea. A lot of hotels, restaurants and resorts dot the cliff.

Sharm El Maya

This is the bay area of the old town of Sharm El Sheikh, developed recently for tourism. The magnificent bay is a natural harbor and home to many boats local and tourist. Palm trees line the lovely endearing sandy beaches making it a perfect place to laze around and sun bathe!

Go scuba diving and snorkeling:

There are a number of reliable diving and snorkeling operators in the area. The Tiran strait and the Red Sea have a diverse marine life, and its turquoise clear waters make it even more enchanting for diving.

Some famous dive centers are Anemone Diving Center at Na?ama Bay, African Divers at Sharm el Maya; Aqua active Dive center at Nabq Bay, Aquamarine and Aquanaute are other dive centers. Some virgin untouched diving sites are the Ras Mamla and Ras Abu Gallum; to go there you have to take permission from the Tourist Police and Protect the Reefs Office because these sites are under the Ras Muhammad National Park.

Colored canyon excursion:

This is in the middle of the desert. It is a gorge formed by water passing through the mountain for hundreds of years revealing the different colored layers of rock. The sheer size of the canyon leaves awed.

There are no facilities at all here. You have to take all that you need with you and as for natures call you will have to make do with going behind the rocks! Tour operators arrange tours in four-wheel drives to the canyon.

Go back into the past:

You can also visit the famous St. Catherine monastery between Nuweiba and Taba. The route via Nuweiba is a picturesque one along the flat plains. St. Catherine’s monastery was built around the 4th century, which is believed to be the site of the burning bush. The fortress that surrounds it was built around the 6th century and is still an operating monastery.

Have a Bedouin dinner:

If you are a foodie and love to try different cuisine you can go for a special Bedouin dinner at one of the Bedouin villages.

The Night Life:

Being a beach resort Sharm El Sheikh has an active nightlife. Most hotels have a pub, disco, and arrange beach parties. As for drinks, you can opt for the local brand-Stella, which is cheaper, or an imported one such as Heineken obviously more expensive.

Darren Panto sales & marketing manager for Peltours – a leading tour operator to Egypt and the Red Sea. For more information on Red Sea holiday excursions visit http://www.peltours.com/tabaheights Alternatively, for a full and comprehensive Egypt holiday search visit http://www.peltours.com

Cleveland

Posted by Mutual-Funds | Hotel Review | Tuesday 4 August 2009 10:54 pm

Probably one of the most underrated vacation spots is Cleveland, Ohio. You should not be misled by its reputation as the ?steel town.? Cleveland is actually a very hospitable city that is not only known for it?s manufacturing, but also for its vast parklands, museums and very active sporting and cultural events.

Downtown Cleveland

The heart of Cleveland?s charm is its downtown, where you will find the historic ?Public Square.? The square is very reminiscent of Cleveland in the early 1800s. It has beautiful fountains and sculptures that the city maintains to this day. Downtown Cleveland hosts the world-famous Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum built in the 90?s. Visitors flock to the museum not only to look at rock and roll artifacts and watch live performances, but also to take advantage of its many wonderful educational and public programs.

Walking through the skyscraper-lined streets of downtown Cleveland immerses you in its energetic urban ambiance, very much like the atmosphere in New York, Boston and Los Angeles. Gone are Cleveland?s rather prosaic beginnings. Everything in the city now bustles with life.

Things to do in Cleveland

It is best to visit Cleveland in the summer ? the days are warm and long, perfect for shopping and dining. The streets are lined with fusion restaurants featuring alfresco dining. You can pack your own lunch and head out to Cleveland?s many national and municipal parks for a simple picnic.

If you happen to be in Cleveland during the winter, don?t worry ? there are still lots of things to do. Winter is the perfect time to visit the city?s cultural attractions. You can watch plays, go to the symphony, attend the opera, or go to museums to view works of local and international artists. The Historic Warehouse District, the Flats Entertainment District and the Historic Gateway District are alive with activities all year long.

Cleveland provides detailed information on Cleveland, Cleveland Hotels, Cleveland Golf, Cleveland Restaurants and more. Cleveland is affiliated with Indianapolis Hotels.