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Thursday, June 17, 2010

Preparing for a vacation - does and don'ts

Going to another country for the holidays is a great way to learn about different cultures. Regardless of the reason why traveling to another country during the holidays, you need to make sure you are prepared for the journey ahead.


For most countries you need a passport with a photograph ID. This means you will be able to stay within the country for a specified amount of time. Typically, this timeframe is from 30 days to 90 days. You'll be able to take your passport photo at any post office, but it's going to take several weeks to get it back. There is an expedited choice and it is very expensive. In case you wait till the holiday time to obtain your passport it is going to take for much longer, even for the expedited option.


Make sure you keep your passport and other travel documents in a safe spot. You don't want them to get lost or stolen for the simple reason that this can delay your travel plans. Make sure you arrive early for your flight so that you can get through all of the necessary inspections and verifications in plenty of time.


There could also be vaccinations required to have. Plan forward and discover out what these vaccinations are and then schedule appointments with your doctor. A few of the required vaccinations must be given in a sequence with a selected period of time.You don't want to wait until close to your time of journey to handle this problem.


Depending on where you may travel you might have to take care of the currency. You will get your cash exchanged at your financial institution before leaving. It will prevent any further delay once you arrive in the other country for the holidays. There may be language differences and difficulties that you must take into consideration.


Be careful when packing  for the holidays. Most means of transportation have strict tips on the dimensions of your baggage, the number of bags each particular person can have, and the weight guidelines. They will be imposing these restrictions during the holidays because of the number of individuals traveling.


Make sure you are aware of how much luggage you have for your return trip as well. While it can be fun to buy souvenirs while you are there, think about how you will take them home. It may be a good idea to have an extra bag when going so you can fill it up for the trip back. Another idea is to have items shipped but that can be quite expensive.


You also have to keep in mind that their customs may be different than your own. Be careful of differences to keep away from any conflicts when you are in that country. It is a good idea to read in regards to the varied customs that shall be in place so you dont break them by accident.

Looking to find the best deal on hotel reservation to find the best advice on hotel for you.

Thursday, June 3, 2010

Chemainus Theatre Festival in BC, Canada

Chemainus is a charming Cowichan Valley town located in the Vancouver Island region south of Nanaimo and one hour north of Victoria on the Trans-Canada Highway. "The Little Town That Did" gained its nickname after Chemainus residents decided to expand their forest industry past into a tourism-driven future. Through the dreams the little town of Chemainus found a new life by putting on a new face. The town transformed itself.

Artists from around the globe were invited to paint huge heritage murals on the sides of buildings while transforming a small coastal settlement into the world's largest outdoor art gallery.

The Chemainus Theatre Festival presents a year-round schedule of contemporary and classic musicals and comedies in an intimate venue. Chemainus Theatre Festival is renowned for producing exceptional entertainment. They feature classic and award winning comedies, musicals and dramas, as well as some of the best guest artists from across North America.

The next show from June 17 to September 11 at Chemainus Theatre Festival:

GUYS AND DOLLS, the Broadway musical

Ten Tonys, seven Laurence Olivier and six Drama Desk Awards make this show an undeniable hit! Enjoy Sit Down, You're Rockin' the Boat, Luck Be A Lady and Take Back Your Mink along with the unforgettable Sky Masterson, Sarah Brown and Miss Adelaide - it's a show that has been described as the perfect musical comedy. Gangsters, card sharks, night club headliners and the Salvation Army fall in, and out, and back in love again, in this high octane New York fable

You can purchase Chemainus theatre tickets here

Find Chemainus hotels for a perfect cultural getaway.

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

City Of Anaheim, California

Anaheim, a city with more than 300 000 inhabitants, is located in Orange County, California and is probably best known for its theme parks such as Disney's. The Disneyland Park opened for a first time back in 1955 and expanded in the late 90s to become what is known today the Disneyland Resort including two theme parks, entertainment and dining area, as well as three hotels. However, Disneyland isn't the only attraction in the city of Anaheim; the Honda Center, the Convention Center and the Angel's stadium are local landmarks that have hosted plenty of memorable events.

Anaheim was established by German families in the middle of the 18th century and today is well-developed industrial center; it is the second most populous city in Orange County and the tenth most populous city in the state of California. Anaheim keeps on growing and expanding and has a lot to offer to its residents and visitors.

If you are after exquisite, exotic or simply tasty dining, then Anaheim is the place to be with tons of fine restaurants offering Italian, Chinese, Hawaiian, Indian, Mediterranean and traditional American taste, you will never go on  hungry. Diners, restaurants and bars can be found in every corner, but quite a large number of them are concentrated near the Anaheim's convention center.

If you are a visitor that has just come to this beautiful city, rest assured that you will easily get to your destination - there are many airports that are near Anaheim, including the Los Angeles International, which is only 30 miles away. Shuttle services, taxi services, public transportation, limousines, and car rental are only some of your options of getting to your destination.

The shopping places in Anaheim are the ones loved by all shopaholics - in the colorful and bright shops you can find beach wear, tees, men and women fashion, fine jewelry, watches, diamonds and gemstones, sunglasses, beauty and cosmetic products, accessories etc. The shops in the Anaheim GardenWalk open at 11am and only close at 9pm, which gives visitors and residents more than enough time to find the item that they are after or do plenty of window shopping.

And in terms of entertainment, Anaheim has a lot to offer as well; of course, if you are visiting with the kids and the whole family, Disneyland should be on top of your places to see. It offers anything that your heart may desire from amusements, adventure thrills and character greeting to dining, shopping and tours. And if you should be in Anaheim at the right time and have planned your visit well in advance, you can see an exciting major league baseball game at the Angel Stadium, great hockey game at the Honda Center, or visit once in a lifetime show at the Anaheim Convention Center.

Anaheim is a vibrant city, with close to 20 000 hotel rooms, excellent transportation, bright and colorful shops, restaurants that cater for every taste and there is a little wonder that is visited by more than 18 million tourists annually and make sure you book accommodation in Anaheim Inns.

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Sunday, April 25, 2010

Hungarian Goulash Recipe

Hungary is a country in Central Europe. It is mostly famous for its unique cuisine. The most famous Hungarian dish is the Hungarian Goulash. But what is its recipe?

One important thing is to prepare the real goulash is: Do not use olive oil please!!!
The real Hungarian goulash is made with lard. But if you do not have any at home use normal oil (sunflower). First buy the following ingerdients:

Ingredients of Hungarian Goulash recipe:
* 600 g beef sheen or shoulder, or any tender part of the beef cut into 2x2 cm cubes
* 2 tablespoons oil or lard
* 2 medium onions
* 2 cloves of garlic
* 1-2 carrots, diced
* 1 parsnip, diced
* 1-2 cellery leafes
* 1 medium tomatoe
* 1 fresh green peppers or paprika
* 2-3 medium potatoes, dices
* 1 tablespoon Hungarian paprika powder
* 1 teaspoon ground caraway seed
* black pepper and salt
* water


The original goulash is not prepared with any other vegetable. But we always put carrots, turpin (white carrot)as they make them more delicious. So buy some of them.

How to prepare the Hungarian Goulash:

First cut two middle sized onions into very small pieces. Put some lard or oil on and put the onion in them. Braise the onion until it looks glassy colour (about 4-5 minutes). Make sure you do not burn the onion.

Put the paprika powder on the braised onions while strirring them to prevent the paprika from burning.

Add the beef cubes and and fry them till the meat turn white and get a bit of brownish colour as well. Pour the water on them to cover everything, but not too much.

Add the garlic, the caraway seed, some salt and ground black pepper, let everything simmer on low heat for a while.

When the meat is half-cooked, add the diced carrots, parsnip and the potatoes, the cellery leaf and some more salt if necessary. You'll probably have to add some more water too.

When the vegetables and the meat are almost done add a whole tomato and the green pepper. Let it cook on low heat for another few minutes. You can remove the lid of the pan if you want the soup to thicken.

If you want to taste some more delicious Hungarian dishes, go and visit Hungary and book in Hungary accommodation in advance.

Thursday, April 22, 2010

The Romantic Germany

Germany is a country in Central Europe. It has border with North Sea, Denmark, and the Baltic Sea; to the east with Poland and the Czech Republic; to the south with Austria and Switzerland; and to the west with France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The population of the country is 82 million inhabitants it has the biggest community the European Union stats.

If you are ready to experience the vintage attractiveness of the Black Forest and Neuschwanstein palace to the trendy features of Berlin and Frankfurt, the medieval attractiveness of Heidelberg to the joy of Munich’s Oktoberfest pay a visit to Germany.

Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria
Neuschwanstein Castle is Germany’s most well renowned palace and is best renowned for being the inspiration to Walt Disney for the Sleeping Beauty Castle. The fairytale palace constructed by King Ludwig II has become the trademark of the German state of Bavaria, with its Gothic tiers and towers. The central method scrounges from Byzantine, Romanesque and Gothic methods and characteristics stunning woodcarvings and murals.

The Munich Oktoberfest is now one of world's large-scale public festivals. It was initially started at the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig to Princess Therese of Saxony Hilbrughausen on October the 12th, 1810. Today the carnival lasts for over 16 days. However, enjoying a liter of good German ale isn't the only cause to attend; melodies of all distinct genres can be discovered and costumed performers will absolutely be a delight. Definetely reserve in Munich, Germany accommodation well before the carnival as it is very hard to get places to stay throughout the time of the festival.

The Romantic Road is one of Germany's best picturesque paths, you are taken through a district that brags quintessential German view and heritage and is one of Germany’s most well renowned holiday routes. It is a spectacular 220-mile excursion from the River Main to the Alps proposing the traveler one of the most attractive and engaging blends of scenery. Highlights along the Romantic Road: the scenic Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the best-preserved medieval village in Germany, and the palace Neuschwanstein and a astonishing view at the Noerdlingen’s Ries Crater, where America's astronauts practisef for their moonwalk.

Cologne is established on the banks of the Rhine and is likely best renowned for making Eau de Cologne and for its outstanding Cathedral. Köln obtained its French title, Cologne, due to an fragrance by an Italian merchant traveling to Germany to make his fortune. The peak attraction is the Cathedral, the magnificent 13th-century Gothic structure with a twin-spired structure. .

Countless fairy tales began in the valleys and wooded heights of Germany's Black Forest. Its title derives from the dark pines that cover this region. Otherwise renowned as the Home of the German Soul, its countryside increases to about 1,200m and lets fall off sharply into scenic valleys. The Black Forest locality is very well liked with hikers and cross-country skiers. The district begins 130 km south of Frankfurt and comes to all the way to the Swiss border.

The Frisian Islands among the North Sea isles are reminiscent of the isles off Scotland. The sea is uneven, it’s often foggy and there is a distinct crispness in the air. The isles are split up into two groups: the Eastern Frisians and the Northern Frisians. The isle encompass the engaged isles of Borkum, Norderney and Wangerooge, Sylt, Fohr and Amrum. Sylt is by far the most well liked island. The isles offer a exclusive know-how to crunchy sea air and miles and miles of sandy beaches.

The historic university village of Heidelberg is for numerous the town that reflects the factual loving Germany. It is one of the German towns that got away air raids throughout World War II. The River Neckar flows past its very vintage towers, connections and the wrecks of its red sandstone castle. The palace was constructed between the 14th and 17th centuries. Heidelberg is furthermore the dwelling to up to date Germany's oldest University founded in 1386. The up to date part of the town round the Bismarckplatz has some good inns and bistros, and enticing buying plazas.

Lake Constance is Germany’s biggest lagoon and is distributed with Switzerland and Austria. It is an contemporary holiday resort and very well liked with Germans in summer. There are many attractive holiday resort villages along the coastlines of the lagoon, most especially Meersburg enclosed by vineyards, half-timbered dwellings and an intact palace in Germany. More than four million persons depend on the lagoon for consuming water. The superficial waters are a key component of the birds that live the locality throughout winter migration.

Berlin, the capital comprises a myriad of views to see. The infamous Berlin Wall can be discovered in components of the town, and the last residual barrier, the Brandenburg Gate, can be discovered along the western end of Unter den Linden Boulevard.

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Ireland, the green island

The Ireland tourist is met affectionately to the magical Green Island which attracts the tourists with a breathtaking nature...

The capital Dublin is a flawless location to get a first effect of Ireland. Many Georgian structures, the Custom House and the customary Irish taverns give the town its exclusive flair. Do not overlook its well renowned Trinity College founded in 1592. The university convoluted comprises of magnificent vintage structures and displays the Book of Kells, a richly adorned manuscript from round AD 800. More outstanding structures in Dublin are likely the Bank of Ireland and St Patrick's Cathedral, where St. Patrick allegedly baptized people. Most most lively locality for vacationers is the Temple Bar locality with its numerous bistros, taverns and trendy shops. Dublin hosts the finals of the nationwide sports of hurling and football in September . You should try to get one of the tickets.

Besides Dublin there are some other prominent cities. To start with: Cork City. It is a attractive location on an isle between the two banks of the River Lee. On the south bank of the stream, the traveler finds a variety of enticements, encompassing the St Finbarr's Cathedral and the Cork Museum, which is dedicated to the labour for Irish liberation in which Cork performed an significant role. Another day journey to the close by Blarney Castle retains some intriguing with its the world-famous Blarney Stone. If you kiss the pebble, you may be granted the gift of speech. Cork is furthermore a good halt for diving and sailing. On the west seaboard area there are some of the best diving sites in Europe, especially in Bantry Bay and Bay Dunmanus. Among the most well liked cruising localities visit Cork Harbour and the Dingle Peninsula.

After Cork City take a turn to Limerick with its very vintage structures for example King John's Castle (13th century) and St. Mary's Cathedral (12th century). Take part in medieval banquet at Bunratty Castle which is held regularly.

Are you even more into the Middle Ages? Then head in the direction of Waterford City with its the town partitions, slender alleyways and a Norman tower called the Reginald's Tower. The city's is famed for Waterford Crystal which is constructed in a manufacturer 2 km out-of-doors the town where you can purchase a pleasant souvenir.

Another stimulating town on the west seaboard area is in Galway. The town has slender roads, vintage pebble storefronts and supply well liked pubs. In Galway the university attracts many of creative persons that you rendezvous in the night in pubs. Lynch's Castle and the Spanish Arch, a remnant of the vintage town partition wholeheartedly worth seeing. Galway is furthermore well renowned for its numerous heritage carnivals for example the Jazz Festival in February, the Easter Festival of Literature at Easter and the Galway Arts Festival in July.

Tthe County Clare comprises a magnificent environment know-how and is located in the to the north coast. Such beautiful locations can be discovered here as Burren with its usual below ground caves and limestone exterior for miles in all directions. The idyllic angling town of Doolin is a well liked center of Irish melodies and the appealing Ballyvaughan, any individual should glimpse at the flower beds supplying an outstanding kind of Mediterranean, Arctic and Alpine plants. With a little luck you can glimpse the exceedingly uncommon pine marten. The quiet observers of annals are the megalithic tombs from the Iron Age. The numerous wrecks of the medieval countryside amke the image complete.

A exceptional natural scene is the Cliffs of Moher. About 200 meters down the vertical cliffs plunging into the sea. Thousands of seabirds nest on the cliffs that run 8 km along the sea.

Beside scenic countrysides there are religious location is Ireland such is Clonmacnoise monastery location in County Offaly. The monastery comprises numerous century-old places of adoration, high crosses, around towers and graves. In the repository you can visit serious pebbles, crosses and other artifacts that were discovered throughout excavations. Since Clonmacnoise is not accessible by public transport, you should take a cab from Shannon Bridge.

Let's proceed hiking. This can be finished in Ireland in the attractively scenic hiking trails for example the Kerry Way or the Ulster Way. Also Connemara, a untamed and barren district northwest of Galway is with bogs, lonesome valleys, hills and lagoons, a paradise for hikers. The focus is the hill hikes on the Summit of the Twelve Bens with breathtaking outlooks to the ocean.

YOu can know-how all these enticements but confirm that you have a proper accommodation in Ireland.

Monday, April 19, 2010

Costa Blanca, Spain

The Costa Blanca is situated on the eastern seashore of Spain and it draws attention to thousands of holidaymakers each yearto its greenish blue waters and white sandy beaches. Alicante is the capital and bigger town on this stretch of seashore, yet it is Benidorm that draws attention to most of the
holidaymakers. In the north Costa Blanca begins with Denia and Javea at the bottom of a mountain and it goes all the way to Guardamar, Torrevieja and Elche in the south. You can fundamentally journey along the Costa Blanca as the Carretera National Park goes
besidesside sea.

There are a lot of places to see besides the Costa Blanca. Several of this places to see are particularly for holidaymakers for example the entertainment park Terra Mitica in Benidorm, Altea and Calpe. Others are tinier cities for instance Villajoyosa is well-known for its old
town and its chocolate.

The Costa Blanca draws attention to not just those interested in just lying on the beach, yet it is perfect for golf playes with a bunch of courses, for fishermen as fishing trips are possible from close toby Santa Pola or shore fishing along the beach. And do not neglect about snorkeling. The fish have a preserved marine habitat to discover around the Islas de Tabarca also can be reached from Santa Pola from where there are ship trips to the island. Ornithologists are well catered for as this is an exceedingly well populated place in wildlife terms. The local beach and dunes are home to a variety of shoreline waders, the gulls and buzzards, the salt lagoons are homes to egrets, herons and big flocks of flamingoes.

In any case the sports activities there is something for eachone for instance theme parks and aqua parks. The most celebrated one is Terra Mitica Theme Park just outside Benidorm. Aqua parks are dotted all along the Costa Blanca with the bigst one: Aqualandia
again close to Benidorm.

What if your children want to take a look at animals? There are more Zoos on the Costa Blanca. The most extended is Mundomar that is for instance a zoo and seaworld. It is next door to Aqualandia close to Benidorm.

Make sure you book Costa Blanca villas before leaving