Free Article Database

Flying into Inverness Airport can truly be regarded as entering one of the most beautiful regions in the UK if not the world. The city of Inverness is regarded by many to be the capital of the Highlands and as such is the perfect base to use a hire car and tour this rugged wilderness. The city of Inverness lies approximately seven miles from the airport and is a city that is bustling, vibrant and rapidly becoming a popular tourist destination. With a wealth of historic and natural sights only a short drive away, jumping into the hire car and viewing these attractions is strongly advisable.

As the name may suggest, the city lies close to Loch Ness; a magnificent stretch of water that over the years has built up a reputation for housing a monster. When using your hire car bear in mind that the A82 that runs along the side of the loch can be quite busy during peak holiday times. It is in fact this road that has led to so many sightings of the fabled monster; during its construction the number of sightings exploded with both locals and workmen claiming to have seen the creature. The local belief is that the drilling and noise of the construction work may have disturbed ‘Nessie’. As one of the most famous lakes anywhere in the world it is must see for tourists, especially considering that if you fail to see the monster, you are certain to see an area of outstanding natural beauty.

In the opposite direction it is advisable for tourists flying into Inverness airport to head along the Moray coastline using their hire car. One of the more popular attractions along this stretch of coast is the large numbers of dolphins that can be seen all year round. Most experts agree that to see the dolphins, a visit in the months between May and September is advisable. For those who do not have sea legs however there a variety of points where the dolphins can be seen from the land; all are easily reachable with the use of a hire car.

Any trip to Scotland would be incomplete without seeing some of the marvellous castles that dot the countryside. As well as Inverness castle within the city there are a number of outlying castles that have a rich and often bloody history. Cawdor Castle is close by and is a fabulous example of fifteenth century Scottish castle building. Additionally Urquhart Castle is worth visiting, sitting on the banks of Loch Ness is also gives visitors a chance to undertake some monster spotting.

The Highlands however are most famous for the whiskies produced in the region. Using your hire car to tour the many distilleries is highly advisable although adding another driver is a sensible idea to ensure drink driving is not a problem. With so many distilleries showcasing the very best whiskies in the world you are sure to find a tipple to your liking. If visiting in July a must see is the Highland Games competition. This event represents true Scottishness and is a worthwhile addition to any trip itinerary.

So when flying into Inverness airport remember that your hire car will do more than just get you to your hotel. With such a wealth of attractions and natural beauty only a short drive away it would be criminal to miss out on the Highlands experience. Whether it is monster spotting, discovering the fascinating history of the region’s castles or even seeing dolphins, there is plenty to do in this magical land.

Travel expert Thomas Pretty looks into why car hire Inverness airport services can be considered a great way to see the Highlands and Loch Ness.

As one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world, Menorca has a large array of luxury accommodation. Hotels with ratings ranging from one-star to five-star play host to millions of tourists each year in Menorca and the neighbouring island of Majorca.

Privately owned villas are available for those tourists looking for more private accommodation. Most of the resort areas are comprised of several hotels, restaurants, pools and activities for all ages. A few of Menorca’s prime resorts include:

* Cala’n Bosch. The Cala’n Bosch resort area is located a short, 15-minute drive from the former capital city of Ciutadella, Menorca. The resort is home to one of the two five-star hotels in Menorca.

The Hotel La Quinta offers all the luxury you would expect from a five-star hotel. Accommodation includes air-conditioned rooms, a heated indoor pool, sauna, Turkish bath and massage, gym, beauty salon and boutique. For even more relaxation, they offer an a la carte restaurant, reading room and piano bar. Other accommodation in the Cala’n Bosch resort area range from low-rise apartments to large hotels. Cala’n Bosch Villas and Villas Begonias are available for larger groups and families looking for more privacy and space than hotels or apartments offer.

* Arenal Den Castel. Only 25 minutes from Mahon, the capital of Menorca, the beach at Arenal Den Castel has received an EU blue flag for cleanliness. The beach has a very large shelf, making it appropriate for families with small children. The resort has a wide variety of bars, restaurants and shops. A fully stocked supermarket makes it convenient for those who rent self-catering accommodations. Hotels and apartments near the resort offer one- and two-bedroom suites with pools, kitchenettes, restaurants, bars, game rooms and children’s clubs.

* Mahon Harbour. Mahon Harbour is one of the largest natural harbours in the world. This resort area is smaller and generally less crowded than some of the larger areas. Seven hotels in the area provide accommodations to thousands of guests per month. The hotels range in size from low-rise to high-rise and vary from one-star to four-star. More than a dozen beaches and coves offer something for everyone. Mahon Harbour is about a 20-minute drive from many attractions on the island.

* Son Parc. Son Parc is home to the only golf course on all of Menorca. The resort is located on the northeast coast of Menorca and offers a great deal more privacy than many other resorts. Son Parc’s primary beach is ideal for families with small children because of its gently sloping shelf and shallow water. Although the nightlife at Son Parc isn’t as lively as other resort areas, it is far from nonexistent.

Reserve of Biosphere Designation

Menorca was awarded the designation of “Reserve of Biosphere” by UNESCO in 1993. A biosphere reserve is an international conservation designation given under UNESCO’s Program on Man and the Biosphere (MAB). Biosphere reserves are created to “promote and demonstrate a balanced relationship between humans and the biosphere,” according to The Statutory Framework of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves. Biosphere reserves must “encompass a mosaic of ecological systems,” including terrestrial, coastal or marine ecosystems.

Many of the resorts and hotels on the islands also strive to aid in eco-tourism through recycling and conservation. Several of them educate their guests on the importance of being ecologically mindful.

YourMenorca.net has more information about Menorca - and now includes photograph galleries for the most popular areas where tourists take their holidays in Menorca

They also has today’s Menorca weather and a Menorca weather forecast with Minorca airport and Minorca flights arrival and departure times.

When taking a holiday in Spain, you’ll want the best accommodations that you can afford. Spanish resorts provide everything you need to relax and enjoy your time in the country. Shopping around for the best resort can be complicated, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

First of all, once you know the region you are staying in, make reservations. Different areas are more popular than others, and some book months in advance. By deciding and reserving early, you avoid any hassles associated with last-minute planning. You also get a better choice of rooms at the hotel. Book your stay early enough to get the best view of the Spanish beaches and countryside.

Make sure to shop around for the best price. Prices at resorts in the same region can vary widely depending on popularity and services offered. Even if you can practically afford to buy the entire hotel, it’s always nice to save some money here and there.

Ask yourself what amenities you need for your stay. Do you need pool access? How close to the beach do you want to be? What kind of room service are you looking for and does the resort offer it? These questions need to be addressed so that you are fully aware of what each hotel has to offer you.

One up-and-coming holiday destination in Spain is La Manga. This is located on a small piece of land surrounded by water. It’s got some of the most spectacular views of the Spanish landscape, and has yet to become over populated by tourists. La Manga has something to offer holiday travelers of every age. From the bustling nightlife to the vast beaches, La Manga is one of Spain’s greatest treasures. If you need proof, stop at the yacht club in the lighthouse at the end of La Manga. Look out over the ocean as you relax with a cool drink. Then think about the view from your office, a view of concrete and steel. Now you can fully appreciate La Manga. Of course, La Manga is also great for golfers, as it hosts some of the most spectacular courses in Europe.

Another popular destination, especially for the young crowd, is Ibiza. Known as the island home of the best talent in today’s electronic music scene, Ibiza is truly the city that never sleeps. Well, maybe it sleeps in the daytime. Anyways, Ibiza has a lot to offer the holiday goers looking for a non-stop good time. The beaches are always packed to the brim, and vacationers can enjoy the sun and sand from one of the many resorts dotting the coast. There’s a wide variety to choose from and many of them are four-star hotels.

Wherever you end up in Spain, a Spanish resort can make your holiday the best time of your life. From the front desk to the room service, the employees take pride in their work and want nothing but your satisfaction. It’s what makes a holiday in Spain different from a holiday in other parts of Europe. The next time that you’re planning a holiday, take a look at the many beautiful regions of Spain.

The La Manga Club Resort is the perfect resort location for your Holidays in Spain set on 1500 acres of breathtaking Spanish countryside.

La Manga Club holiday resort provides golf, tennis, horse riding, water sports, childrens club, cycling etc and if you would like to receive the La Manga Resort Guide please visit the website.

Cities: The capital and largest city, Nicosia, known locally as Lefkosia, is located on the Pedieos River in the central part of the isle. Paphos the ancient capital of Cyprus is the capital city of the western part of Cyprus. The port city of Larnaca a popular beach holiday destination is the location of the main airport for Cyprus. The port city of Limassol second largest city is located in the south part of the isle on Akrotiri Bay.

Information and Figures: Capital Nicosia: 206.000 inhabitants. Language: Greek is the official language, English follows second and German, French and other languages are spoken in the traveler-related areas.

Geography/Topography: Cyprus Isle is located in the north-eastern Mediterranean Sea and lies at the crossroads of Europe, and Asia. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean after Sardinia Africa and Sicily. The isle has been favored by the Gods and creation with a differing countryside, natural and historic settings, sandy bays, rocky coast-lines, mountain resorts, crystal clear waters and scenic villages. Each resort or city has its own authentic beauty and everything is easy accessible.

Climate: Cyprus enjoys an intense Mediterranean climate, with long summers from May to October, and mild winters from December to February. Spring and autumn seasons are short. With an average of 340 bright days a year, Cyprus Island can pride itself on being one of the sunniest and healthiest resorts in the Mediterranean that allows for a wide rage of outdoor activities and amusement. It is the ideal resort, all year round. Required clothing: Lightweight cottons and linens during summer months, warmer medium weight clothes and rainwear during the winter.

With Cyprus weather means that you can savor Cyprus in the winter as fine as the summer. For the traveler that does not care regarding spending their holiday swimming, then Cyprus Island is a great winter vacation island. The official winter vacation period is since the middle of November till the middle of March though to be fair these months are generally tepid with very little days bringing freezing or bad winter weather. Even if it rains, the sun is likely to come elsewhere at some indicate; very few days are grey also dismal, maybe 2-3 throughout the whole 365 day period.

Religion: Greek Orthodox. Currency and Banking: Cyprus Pound is divided in 100 cents. Exchange conveniences are available at all ports of entry, banks, accommodation and bureau de change. Major credit cards are widely accepted and visitor cheques may be cashed at all banks. 1 CYP is regarding 1.75 EUR. The introduction of EURO: As from January 2008 all transactions are much easier with the introduction of Euro also in Cyprus. Opening hours: Monday - Friday: 8h30 - 12h30 Monday afternoon: 15h15 - 16h45.

Passports and Visas. A valid passport is essential. Visas are not required for holders of EU passports or countries with which a Bilateral Agreement exists.

Vaccination: Immunization against hepatitis A is sometimes recommended.

Flights and Airports: Over 40 airlines operate flights within, to and from Cyprus Island. Larnaca International Airport (LCA) is 5 km south of the city; Pafos Airport (PFO) is 15 km east of the city. Local Time GMT +2 (GMT +3 from March to October).

Electricity: Square 13-amp three-pin plugs (UK-type) are used.

Infrastructure: Cyprus Island benefits from an of quality infrastructure. Modern roads and motorways allow easy traveling, advanced tele-communication system is standard, modern Health Sector, International Banking, Offshore and Shipping Centre, well-qualified government assistance and Health and Safety regulations are in general agreement with the European Law. Towns Limassol: 151.000 inhabitants Larnaca: 67.000 inhabitants Pafos: 38.000 inhabitants.

Vacations: Gastronomy. Cyprus is famous for one of the healthiest diets in the world and the island produces an unlimited variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, depending on the season. Fish is caught daily and the local specialties satisfy all tastes. The local restaurants and taverns offer a wealth of choices in Cypriot food. The Cypriot “Meze” offers a tantalizing, almost endless selection of small dishes.

Accommodation: The hospitality industry is far developed and offers lodgings and services of high standard.

Sports: Biking: Bikes for rent available. Diving, Fishing, Golf, Hiking, Horse riding, Motor biking: motor bikes for rent available, Sailing, Skiing: January - March, Tennis, Wind surfing.

Shopping: Local products of special interest to visitors include leather goods, woven fabrics, ceramics, filigree silverware, baskets, “Lefkaritika” lace and local wines and spirits. Tailor-made suits and spectacles are also excellent buys. Opening hours: Workdays 9h00 - 13h00 and 15h00 - 19h00, Wednesdays and Saturdays half day only. These hours may vary depending on the season. Local Markets Limassol: Monday to Saturday: 8h00 - 13h00 Larnaca: Saturday: 6h00 - 12h00 Pafos: Monday to Saturday: 6h00 - 12h00.

General facts: Driving. Traffic drives on the left and sign posting is very good, in both Greek and English. Drivers must be 21 years old and in having of either a valid international driving license or their national license when hiring a car.

Safety: Cyprus is still a very safe island with a low crime rate.

Health: All health requirements are EU standard. Doctors visit the lodging upon request and hospitals and Medical Centers are located in the cities and traveler areas. Pharmacies can be found in towns and tourist resorts.

Communication: Cyprus is connected to the cellular network (GSM) and compatible mobile phones can be used. Wire or wireless Internet access is widely available.

Churches: Ecumenical, Catholic and Protestant masses are available in all cities and traveler areas.

Cyprus can really please everyone: couples, families also groups can select between lively resorts and quieter settings with plenty of space to rest.

Are you interested visiting Cyprus? Find here Luxury Hotels in Cyprus and Family Hotels in Cyprus

The second largest city in Spain, and the capital of Catalonia, Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in Europe. With millions of visitors ever year, the city is accustomed to a massive influx of holiday-makers, backpackers and city break visitors throughout the year.

With such a large number of people landing at Barcelona Airport ready to see the sights, the city has developed a fantastic variety of tourist and cultural attractions. Take a look at the top five below and ensure that when you visit the beautiful city of Barcelona, that you enjoy the best that the city has to offer.

Barcelona is on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea but is not considered to be a beach holiday resort as it also boasts a cultural heritage, the Collserola mountain range and an impressive cityscape. Many of Barcelona’s attractions lie within the boundaries of the city itself with many churches, museums and parks to entertain couples and families on city breaks.

Possibly the most famous landmark in Barcelona is the Antoni Gaudi designed Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Familia. Commonly known as simply Sagrada Familia, the church has been under construction since 1882 and is expected to be completed in 2026. This symbol of the Roman Catholic church is beautifully designed with a total of 18 towers to be completed, representing the 12 apostles, 4 evangelists, Virgin Mary and the tallest tower of Jesus Christ.

Externally, the Sagrada Familia is a sight to behold but the true beauty within will leave the visitor breathless. The scale of the project that Gaudi began comes to life when you enter and look up at the vaulted ceiling. Over a hundred years of architecture and design is at your fingertips, with the current stonemasons still working on the project while you watch.

Words will not do justice to this fantastic monument and the only way to fully appreciate it is by visiting for yourself. Photos and videos merely capture a fraction of the wonder and beauty of the Sagrada Familia that gives stands as a cultural symbol for the city of Barcelona.

If culture is not your thing, or maybe if you think it isn’t, then take a trip to a cultural, tourist and local attraction of epic proportions - the Camp Nou. With a capacity to host nearly 100,000 spectators, the Camp Nou recently celebrated its fiftieth birthday as the home of FC Barcelona.

Football fans from around the world will probably not have seen a stadium of such scale in terms of history, facilities, size and atmosphere. FC Barcelona are one of the most entertaining soccer teams in the world with the likes of Lionel Messi, Thierry Henry and Samuel Eto’o on the playing staff.

There are a variety of deals available for different needs and budgets, so you can book accordingly and take advantage of hospitality packages or a simple ticket-only booking. Visiting the Camp Nou and watching FC Barcelona will be an experience you are never going to forget.

Art appreciators will be keen to visit the Picasso Museum and view almost 4,000 of Pablo Picasso’s works first hand. Picasso’s work demonstrates a strong bond with the city of Barcelona, from his time as an apprentice to many other key periods in his artistic career.

If you are unfamiliar with the work of Picasso, take this opportunity to learn about the processes and ideas of one of the twentieth century’s most important figures. Take a look at some of his earliest works as well as a great collection of his prints that will leave you amazed by his style and technique.

Art and design are prevalent in all aspects of the city and are influential in Barcelona’s parks and public places. This tradition of the city is very evident in the beautiful Park Guell with its interesting architectural layout and design.

Park Guell was also designed by Gaudi, showing that his influence on the city is far more eminent than just the Sagrada Familia. Free entry ensures that the park is busy and popular with both tourists and locals looking to relax and unwind in its relaxing setting.

Tourists can experience a wonderful panoramic view of the city from the park, a perfect photo opportunity and breathtaking sight. Enjoy a stroll around the park at your own speed and get close to the skilled mosaics of the main terrace and dragon fountain.

Possibly the most interesting thing to do in Barcelona is a simple walk down the main street in the city centre. La Rambla represents the cosmopolitan, vibrant and lively heart of the city, with restaurants, bars and many other things to do and see for tourists and locals.

La Rambla is the home of Liceu, Barcelona’s renowned and celebrated opera house as well as a fantastic selection of market stalls at the Mercat de la Boqueria. There is always something happening from the harbour to the town square, as Las Ramblas has adapted to its popularity with tourists.

You can often walk down the street and find various street performers with a multitude of talent, as well as some with little or no talent on show. This is Barcelona, and visitors to this glorious city must take a stroll down Las Ramblas to get a real feel for the city and its people.

Visiting Barcelona should be an exciting, fulfilling experience with so many interesting sights and sounds. These five things that have been highlighted are just the main must-see attractions, as with any length of time spent in Barcelona will uncover so many more amazing activities that make this city the perfect city break destination.

Patrick is an expert Research and Travel consultant. His current interest is in Heathrow Parking, Stansted airport parking and Pink Elephant Stansted.

Historical settings and modern conveniences in the center of Moscow, the Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow offers an ideal location for business guests with little free time, but great aspirations to gather an impression of the city.

Some of the most famous sites are concentrated around the hotel, including the Bolshoi Theater adjacent and the Kremlin, Red Square and the State History Museum a few steps further.

Two hundred and sixty rooms, including 21 suites, can be found at Ararat Park Hyatt Hotel. Rooms start around 755 Euros per night for a Park King (35 sq.m.).

As business people comprise the largest guest contingent, all rooms have complimentary, unlimited access to internet so that the guest does not have to go to the lobby in order to work on his own computer.
Beginning in the Park Suite category (around 1,240 Euro per night), guests are welcomed with a bottle of wine and a fruit basket. These two-room suites are spacious (75 sq.m.), elegant and offer a separate toilet and bathroom with shower.

Although these rooms are quite impressive, the real luxury begins with the two-room (120 sq.m.)

Winter Garden Suites, which present a panoramic view over central areas of Moscow and provide both natural light and exclusivity for guests.

These suites are ideal for intimate meetings, with important partners or clients, but would also be very appropriate for an anniversary weekend, should guests be willing to pay 2, 640 Euros per night.

Two-floor apartments can also be found at the hotel. The 180 sq.m. Ambassador Suite runs at around 3,318 Euros per night and includes a large living room area downstairs with a table for 10, a kitchen and guest bathroom. Upstairs a work area, bedroom and bathroom lie separate from the rest of the apartment.

This suite is ideal for lengthy, private work meetings and is simply, but tastefully decorated with a residential ambience.

Diplomatic and Presidential Suites, the most exclusive apartments, span over 3 main rooms and 140 sq.m. and 180 sq.m., respectively.

Both feature a premium open bar, study with complimentary wireless Internet access, French custom-made furniture and a tri-color Italian marble bath.

With so much luxury, it is no wonder that Madonna chose the Presidential Suite during her recent stay in Moscow.

Before her arrival Madonna managers sent to the hotel a list of the singer preferences.

Among them there were requirements, that no staff should ask her for autograph, the vase in here room should always be full of white roses, and there should be four fresh lemons on the table. One of the singer managers likes nuts very much, and Madonna required that nuts always were in his room.

Price tags for Diplomatic and Presidential Suites amount to approximately 6,500 Euros and 8,850 Euros respectively.

A definite advantage over the competition, Ararat makes available a large fitness studio 24 hours a day, complete with plenty top-of-the line equipment, so that guests do not have to wait to work out.

The Quantum Health Club is another highlight of the Ararat Park Hyatt Hotel.

It offers three saunas, a solarium, unique spa and massage treatments, a juice bar and even a VIP private lounge with a separate Russian bath treatment. Guests generally rent the room for several hours, for 137 Euros per hour.

Guests may receive the Russian traditional bath treatment, which lasts around one hour, only in this room at a cost of approximately 225 Euros.

An indoor pool is set in a quiet, soothing atmosphere, with a modern-designed fountain that creates the sound of a small waterfall in the corner of the pool. The pool area also houses a Jacuzzi.

Recommended for Professional service, exclusivity and eloquence make the Ararat Park Hyatt Hotel an excellent choice for wealthy business people-particularly foreigners seeking international standards, politicians or anyone else who can afford it.

With prices as breathtaking as the quality of the hotel, however, even a weekend at the Ararat is beyond of the reach of an upper-middle income client, for even a special occasion.

Winston Johns is a correspondent of the famous Danish newspaper in Moscow, Russia. For the past 2 years he has been working as a freelance journalist and editor for Moscow Hotels and Moscow Apartments web site.

Are you looking for a vacation destination that offers sunshine, great food and the charm of Spanish culture? Look no further than the region of Murcia for your next holiday.

Murcia is actually both the name of a city and the name of a region. The official name of the region is The Autonomous Community of the Region of Murcia. There are a total of seventeen such regions in Spain.

Murcia is located in the southeast corner of the country on the Mediterranean Sea. It is also bordered by Andalucia, the Valencian Community and Castilla La Mancha.

Because of its proximity to the Mediterranean, the area has a temperate climate. The ideal weather makes Murcia a prime place to grow flowers, fruits and vegetables. In addition, the wine made in Murcia is world class. Be sure to visit the region’s markets and wineries to experience the tasty treats that are grown locally.

Murcia’s Mediterranean coast is also known as the Costa Calida. The Mediterranean isn’t the only sea on the coastline, however. The Mar Menor, which translates to Little Sea, is located in this region. It is an oceanic lagoon that is technically the largest saltwater lake in Europe.

The presence of the Mar Menor and Mediterranean Sea’s crystal clear waters combined with the area’s ideal weather, featuring over 3,000 hours of sunshine per year on average, make Murcia a beachgoer’s paradise. The region features some of the best beaches in Europe. Water sports including scuba diving, swimming, flysurfing snorkeling, kite surfing, board surfing and boating are all very popular pastimes in the region.

Fishing towns dot the coastline, adding to the charm of the area. If you are looking for an afternoon of shopping, a great seafood dinner or you simply want to experience local Spanish culture, take a trip to one of Murcia’s coastal towns. From Aguilas to La Manga, they each have a personality all their own.

Once you’ve finished exploring the region’s beautiful beaches, move inland and discover the charms of Murcia’s interior. The area has beautiful castles, mountains, lush wooded areas and plenty of charm. It is rich in culture and tradition. Towns like Caravaca, Jumilla, Yecla, Moratalla, Mula, and Bullas are great places to explore on your vacation. The people of the region are gracious hosts to travelers, and you are sure to love the leisurely pace of small town Spanish life.

If you’re looking for an urban experience in Murcia, visit the capital city of the same name. The city of Murcia features a beautiful church called the Cathedral of the Diocese of Cartagena. Be sure to see its magnificent architecture. Also visit the city’s park known as the Glorieta. It is located near the Segura River and features beautiful landscaping. Plateria Street and Traperia Street are the heart of the old town. This pedestrian area features a richly-decorated casino.

Whether you’re looking for a visit to the beach, the peace of a small town or the experience of an urban Spanish area, Murcia has something for you. Put this beautiful region of Spain on the top of your list of places to visit.

The La Manga Club Resort is the perfect resort location for your Holidays in Spain set on 1500 acres of breathtaking Spanish countryside.

La Manga Club holiday resort provides golf, tennis, horse riding, water sports, childrens club, cycling etc and if you would like to receive the La Manga Resort Guide please visit the website.

The Nguni Zambezi Voyager allows guests to relax and soak up the atmosphere of the Zambezi wilderness and to take part in a number of activities from visiting Victoria Falls to tiger fishing, visiting local villages, wildlife viewing or birding in Chobe National Park or perhaps just relaxing in the Jacuzzi!

If you are looking for something just a little bit different, why not consider a few relaxing days on a floating luxury lodge? The new Nguni Zambezi Voyager offers the perfect base from which to explore this diverse region with game viewing, birding, fishing, cultural visits and relaxation the order of the day.

The upper Zambezi wilderness is a mosaic of wetlands creating enormous biodiversity. Three predominant rivers flow through this area; the Zambezi, Chobe and Kasai. The opportunity to travel for hundreds of kilometres on all these rivers is possible with the Zambezi Voyager. Each river is unique and has its own character and charm, so a stay of a few days is recommended to enable visitors to enjoy as much variety as possible!

Nearby attractions include the magnificent Chobe National Park, a wildlife rich environment that is particularly well known for its large elephant population. Impalila Island is also located near by, this is the only place in the world where four countries meet at one point. One of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Victoria Falls is just a day trip away, and this whole area will soon be encompassed into the exciting Kavango Zambezi (KaZa) Transfrontier Conservation Area.

Nguni is a luxuriously appointed, fully serviced and activity driven floating lodge, more than just a houseboat and more than a luxury lodge! Nguni accommodates ten passengers in either twin or double bedded accommodation. The well appointed berths are tastefully decorated with soft stone textures and hand made linen.

The entertainment decks combine a comfortable compliment of private lounges overlooking the idyllic waterways whilst the open air decks offer a choice of cooling off in the Jacuzzi or soaking up the African sun on the top deck loungers. Nguni is an exclusive experience affording you privacy amongst the scenic beauty of the African water and savannah.

One tender boat and guide per room are usually available, so guests can have a choice of either taking a safari on the Chobe River, concentrating on the photographic opportunities of an environment considered the Jewel of Namibia, enjoying a relaxing fishing trip, or simply travelling through this lush wilderness in distinctive comfort and style.

The Chobe has the largest concentration of elephants in Africa and for this reason alone the Chobe is a must for any visitor to Nguni. There are vast buffalo herds and numerous plains game species that traverse the area as well as the possibility of sighting predators such as Lion, Wild Dog, Hyena and Leopard. Approximately 450 species of birds occur throughout this area, indeed it is the most prolific birding wildlife area in Southern Africa due to a diverse variety of habitats.

The rivers have an enormous fish resource and therefore are home to magnificent water birds. Some of the iconic species of the area such as the African Fish Eagle, Mallachite Kingfisher, African Jacana and African Skimmer can be viewed easily from Nguni. The guides do however specialise in trying and finding the rarities like the Slaty Egret, Rosy-throated Longclaw, Coppery Sunbird, White Backed Night Heron and Pels Fishing Owl.

The river communities that live along the banks of the river are known as the Lozi and Masubia. Visitors are able to experience their lifestyle by simply observing as they tend to their daily duties or be more participatory as guests in one of their villages. The opportunity to take guided walks is available over varying distances and within different habitats. The walking is comfortable as the terrain is reasonably flat and is not exclusively for the energetic.

The Upper Zambezi and Kasai Channel has some of the best river fishing in the world. The targeted species are Tigerfish, Bream and Catfish. Tigerfish is the meanest African freshwater species and one of the most explosive freshwater game fish in the world. It has a reputa tion of being one of the hardest fighting and most difficult fish to boat. These river fish can grow up to 10kg (22lbs) in this stretch of water. The guides actively practice catch and release and are committed to the long term sustainability of our fish resource.

For Namibia self-drive tours go to www.infotour-africa.com or email infotour@iafrica.com.na Tel. ++264 61 228 717

Whether or not the United Kingdom is in recession is debatable - officially the country isn’t as it takes two quarters of negative growth to make it officially a recession.

But all the talk in the media has certainly worried enough families into re-thinking their normal overseas holiday plans, and some reports suggest that one in three British families will holiday within the country this summer.

So the good start the Canary island of Lanzarote has had for 2008 will certainly help their tourist industry for the year overall if the summer time is a disappointment compared to the number of visitors in 2007.

Lanzarote is an all year round holidays destination, with many holidaymakers taking advantage of the good winter weather on the island, notably from the UK - but increasingly from Scandanavia too.

Visitor numbers suggest that arrivals on the island this year are up just over 10 per cent on 2007, and with the summer of 2007 being a pretty flat time in Lanzarote there is every chance that the number of Lanzarote holidays sold in 2008 will show an increase despite the overall poor economy of her main UK market.

Popular visitor attractions in Lanzarote have reported attendance numbers well up on 2007.

Lanzarote, at 37 miles long and 12 miles wide, has much to offer visitors of all ages. Due to the location of the island and volcanic eruptions as recent as the 19th century, people often describe parts of the island as lunar. Some say it gives them the feeling of being in another world. Families with small children find this an exciting way to teach their children about the planets and how each area of a planet can differ from others.

Overall Lanzarote has both culture and charm, from its Romance language (Spanish), to its natural beauty. Part of Spain, the island is 20 kilometers at its widest section and is 60 kilometers long. There’s a lot to see and do in a relatively small geographical area.

Lanzarote offers many great attractions for visitors of all ages, which is why perhaps Lanzarote is doing well despite a downturn in tourism in many other places. The Guinate Tropical Park and Penguin Paradise near Haria offers a very unique array of wildlife. The penguin enclosure, Penguin Paradise is a spectacle in itself. The underwater viewing pool gives visitors the unique experience of seeing the behavior of penguins while under water. It is simply amazing to see how these incredible birds behave in their natural habitat.

Sandy beaches and water sports are also part of the appeal that awaits Lanzarote holidaymakers. Puerto Del Carmen, a popular resort on the island, is also a hub of excitement for many family activities. The Rancho Texas Theme Park, established around 1731, is one of the most popular sites in Puerto Del Carmen. The first mayor of San Antonio, Texas, was originally from Lanzarote and the park is, in part, a tribute to that connection. Some of the park’s most popular attractions include crocodiles, parrots and a Birds of Prey show. Pony and canoe rides and many other activities await anxious tourists and excited children.

For those who prefer a more genteel holiday, Playa Blanca was once a small fishing port. In recent years it has developed into the second largest resort on Lanzarote. Playa Blanca is very popular with families due to its size and many family-friendly beaches. Two more beaches were recently added to Playa Blanca to help make up for the lack of space on the main central beach. Along the nicely manicured streets you will find several shops, restaurants and clubs. The resort offers many sports and attractions for guests of all ages.

The fact that Lanzarote is diverse enough to offer both action packed and leisurely holidays will no doubt help her tourist numbers if there are turbulent times ahead in the holidays market.

More information about the attractions for tourists in Lanzarote are available through yourlanzarote.net

Accommodation and Lanzarote hotels - many of which appear in brochures for Lanzarote holidays are reviewed.

Their is also information about the island’s airport, flight times and airlines who include flights to Lanzarote

For affluent travelers, one of the most popular reasons to take a foreign holiday is golf. There are renowned courses scattered across the globe. With the right knowledge, golfers can maximize their enjoyment of the finest courses in beautiful locales. There are courses located on six of the seven continents, though you’ll never be able to play them all. Of course, maybe you’re up to that challenge.

In Spain, you’ll find several great courses located near La Manga. The La Manga Golf Club has three eighteen-hole courses, the ideal climate year round and great practice facilities. Located less than three hours from most major European cities, the courses of La Manga Golf Club feature many challenging greens. The putting and chipping practice areas are huge, and the driving range features ninety practice bays. The club is the official winter training course of the German PGA. The resort has also hosted its fair share of world tournaments. There is a coaching staff for amateurs or for those looking for tips on improving their game. La Manga is a great city for enthusiasts of the sport.

Take a hop, skip and jump from La Manga and you’ll find the home of golf, St. Andrews Links in Scotland. Possibly the most famous set of courses in the world, St. Andrews Links has a history over a half-millennium old. Starting in around 1400 A.D., the sport has been played on these links for centuries, except when it was banned for nearly fifty years. King James II of Scotland banned the sport, feeling that it distracted men from archery practice. The ban was finally lifted in 1502 when King James IV became a golfer. St. Andrews Links once consisted of only the Old Course, a twenty-two hole challenge that was reduced to eighteen holes, giving the game the number it has today. There are six course on the links, with a seventh currently in development, making St. Andrews the largest public complex in the world.

Far from Europe, Dubai has many courses to offer enthusiasts of the sport. Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club features an eighteen-hole championship course, a nine-hole par three course and a gold academy for training. It also has six restaurants and bars, a gymnasium, a tropically-themed pool and a 225 room hotel. Of course, if you don’t feel like staying at the hotel on your holiday, you can always rent one of the 92 executive villas. Besides the fabulous course and excellent accommodations, this club has a huge marina, where many travelers can dock and enjoy the view. The greens are world class in Dubai.

For the perfect golf holiday, there are many options all over the globe. In countries around the world, the sport plays an integral part of culture and tourism, and it allows certain areas to thrive economically. The next time you need a break, consider staying in one of these fabulous areas and hitting the greens for a few days. You’ll see some of the most gorgeous scenery on earth while getting rid of that nasty slice in your drive.

The La Manga Club Resort is the perfect resort location for your Holidays in Spain set on 1500 acres of breathtaking Spanish countryside.

La Manga Club holiday resort provides golf, tennis, horse riding, water sports, childrens club, cycling etc and if you would like to receive the La Manga Resort Guide please visit the website.