Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Why not ‘Virginize’ your next reunion or family gathering?
Are you tired of the same old 
family reunion or sorority gathering in the same old place? Why not take the opportunity to reconnect with family and friends in one of the many amazing locations offered by Virgin Vacations. With so many places to choose from and some of the best prices around, your reunion or family gathering is bound to be a smashing success.
With a trend toward reinforcing family values and keeping friendships strong, there is no better way to stay connected than through a memorable vacation. Perhaps you could plan a heritage vacation adventure with your family to experience the old country. Visiting cultural exhibits and attractions will surely give everyone a deeper understanding of their ancestry.
Maybe you and your long lost girlfriends would love an opportunity to lounge and relax at an exotic island paradise. What better way to catch up than with a cold and tasty beverage under the hot sun. Broaden your horizons and consider visiting the exotic locales of Fiji, Australia, Greece, Brazil or Costa Rica! The skies the limit with Virgin Vacations!
Send your family or friends an email today and see what they think about planning and executing a fantastic group holiday. Remember that pulling off a reunion or family gathering is a long term planning endeavor! Get a team together, put your thinking caps on and forget the tired old summer BBQ, ‘virginize’ your next reunion or family gathering!
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Traveling with Children Can Be Enjoyable!
Many of Virgin Vacation’s travel packages are terrific choices for families with children of all ages. If you decide to travel as a family to one of our unbelievable destinations, here’s just a few tips to make sure everything goes smoothly and your family has an amazing time!
If you start traveling with your children when they are young, you will discover that they become very adaptable and easy going on future trips. Exposure to traveling opens their eyes to how big the world is and how unique and different we all are.
For the purposes of this article, we will focus on traveling with children from the ages of three and up. First of all, right from when you have booked, start talking to your child about the trip so that he or she can anticipate the trip and look forward to going.
Talking about the trip in advance will give your child an opportunity to ask any questions and in turn give you the chance to quell any fears he or she might have. Show pictures, brochures and websites of your chosen destination to help make the trip more concrete in your little ones’ mind.
Talk about the modes of transportation you will be taking. If it is your child’s first time going on a plane, bus or train, the transportation can be as exciting as the destination!
Packing
When it is time to pack for your trip, be sure you set out firm rules regarding what your child can bring or you risk filling up two suitcases with their favourite things! Let your child pack comfort items like their favourite stuffed animal or blanket because these familiar items will be essential when they are in unfamiliar surroundings. Be sure to pack quiet activities like books, activity books and small toys to keep your little ones occupied when they are confined in an airplane or bus.
Remember to pack the necessary essentials like sun protection, insect repellant, weather appropriate clothing, swimsuits, comfortable shoes, first aid kit including over the counter drugs for a variety of ailments, antibacterial hand wash and anything else you can think of!
Food
If possible, try to get your child used to the foods he or she will experience on your adventure. Visit ethnic restaurants of the region you will be visiting! If necessary, pack a few familiar portable food items like fruit bars, granola bars or dried fruit that you can take with you when you go on longer sightseeing excursions.
Safety
Review your family’s safety tips in advance of your trip. Be sure to cover any new rules that may be necessary for the country you are visiting. If you’ll be visiting the ocean or other body of water, advise your children about tides, currents and dangerous sea creatures.
Keep it Fun!
Take many pictures and encourage your child to record their experiences in a scrapbook, notebook or travel journal. Even younger children can draw pictures or paste mementos from the trip.
Include age appropriate activities during your trip. Remember to take cues from your children to determine if they are maintaining their energy for the various sightseeing jaunts. If they are getting tired, take a break and relax. Your adventures won’t be fun if you’re dragging along cranky kids.
By following these tips, you can help ensure your vacation is stress free and enjoyable for all! Vacationing with your children can fill every member of the family with memories that will last a lifetime.
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Having a Ball in Hong Kong
In a word, I describe Hong Kong as exhilarating. 
It has everything you could want from a big city vacation; interesting history, spectacular shopping, tantalizing entertainment and a great mix of old and new.
Hong Kong really hadn’t been at the top of my list of places to visit. It wasn’t until a friend returned from her trip last year and she shared her amazing experiences and pictures that I started considering a trip for myself.
I had traveled on a Virgin Vacation’s package to South America last year and it was an amazing experience - both the locale and the Virgin service. So I figured, why mess with a good thing, and I decided to check out what Virgin Vacation’s has to offer for Hong Kong jaunts.
My first decision regarding Hong Kong was what time of year to visit. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that there really isn’t a bad time of year to go. Hong Kong has a mild climate from the middle of September to the end of February and the warm weather kicks in from May to mid-September. So whenever it strikes your fancy, pack your bags and head over for a visit!
Even though Hong Kong is a long distance away, my available time only allowed for a short visit to this amazing destination. Nonetheless, I found my five-day Hong Kong Special package provided a great taste of the city.
If you are a history buff like me, you will love the history that surrounds you everywhere. From the gaslights, to the temples, to Queen Victoria ensconced in bronze…everywhere you turn you experience Hong Kong’s rich and unique history.
You can even search out remnants of the old walled city – talk about stepping back in time. I was lucky enough to sit on Sung Wong Rock, once the visiting throne of the Sung Dynasty emperor!
I also braved the Peak Tram, which took me up to Hong Kong’s steep Victoria Peak. I was amazed to learn that trams have been taking people up this peak since 1888.
Jade Market.
Equally as exciting as my shopping and historical treks were my many amazing meals. From roasted duck to dim sum to fresh fish, my stomach was very happy (not to mention full) from some terrific culinary delights. My friend who traveled there last year recommended my absolute favourite restaurant to me. M at the Fringe is touted as one of the best restaurants in Hong Kong, and based on my experience; I would have to agree. Apparently, the menu changes often, and the dishes I had on my visit were tremendous. If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to save room for one of their delectable desserts! Don’t forget to make reservations or chances are – you won’t get in!
I happened to be in Hong Kong during one of their many festivals. From what I’m told, there is some kind of celebration or festival happening almost every week of the year! These people like to party! I actually attended the Bun Festival in April on the nearby island of Cheung Chau. I know it sounds strange, but there actually was 50 foot high pyramids of steamed buns that were set there as offerings to hungry mythological ghosts!
Another great feature of Hong Kong that I savored was the nightlife. Now I’m not just talking swanky lounges, but every type of nighttime diversion you can think of! Check out the swanky operas, ballets and theatres; visit a karaoke bar or one of their many cosmopolitan nightclubs!
One surprise for me was that in a city with so many people, there were plenty of opportunities to indulge in athletic pursuits. There are loads of bike paths and it is very easy to rent a bike. Try cycling the paths during the week because the paths can be very crowded on the weekends. There are also several fantastic beaches, with the best ones on the outlying Islands. Hiking is also terrific in Hong Kong. Try Lantau Island, Country Parks and MacLehose Trail in the New Territories. Again, keep your hiking pursuits to the weekdays to avoid the crowds.
One last thing, even though Hong Kong is a densely populated city, locals and travelers consider it to be very safe. You can travel at night with little worry about entering undesirable neighbourhoods. It seemed that no matter what time of night it is, there are always plenty of people around giving a tremendous sense of safety.
I hope you get a chance to visit this absolutely amazing city soon. You’ll love the great diversity, never ending things to do and incredible food. Have a ball in Hong Kong!
Friday, June 30, 2006
Explore captivating Calafate during your trip to Argentina or Chile!
If you are planning a trip to awesome 
Argentina or captivating Chile, we highly recommend scheduling some time to visit Calafate in the pristine Patagonia region.
Virgin Vacations offers a terrific three-night stopover that gives you just enough time to experience unforgettable sights!
Some call Calafate the gateway to the majestic world of glaciers. It resides in Patagonia, the southern region of the Republic of Argentina and Chile. This area contains some of the most bountiful and diverse nature imaginable.
The quaint town of Calafate gets its name from the small bush calafate, indigenous to Patagonia. In fact, calafate fruit makes delicious jams – pick up a jar while you’re visiting! According to local tradition, whoever eats calafate will return for more. We guarantee you will return for more of the breathtaking beauty offered by this magnificent region.
During your Calafate stopover, you will visit Los Glaciares National Park. This enormous park is home to 47 glaciers, all of them draining to the Atlantic Ocean.
You will also visit Perito Moreno Glacier, at 600,000 hectares it is an unforgettable experience! The Perito Moreno Glacier is the world’s third largest reserve of fresh water!
The natural beauty of this region will astound you as you walk along the mammoth glaciers. The show is never ending as you watch the detachment of ice blocks in the near distance. Hear the roar they produce and watch them turn into amazing bloating icebergs.
Your adventure to Calafate and the surrounding glacier parks will be an experience you will never forget!
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
My Big Fat Greek Island Vacation
I decided that after experiencing the picturesque villas and crystal blue waters of the Greek Islands, I had discovered a piece of Mediterranean paradise. There truly is no place like it in the world!
Long ago, I made a commitment to myself to visit the Greek Islands at some point in my life. I had the great fortune to fulfill my commitment when I went on Virgin Vacations Greek 2 Island Escape.
Although a cruise would have been a great way to visit many of the islands in a short period of time, I chose the 2-island escape because I wanted more of an opportunity to fully experience their wonder and beauty. My package included stays in Mykonos and Santorini.
Mykonos is the most famous of the islands and it is set in an idyllic fishing village bay. The gorgeous whitewashed cube like buildings fit together so closely that they form a haphazard maze of narrow alleyways and streets. It looked just like the many photographs I’ve seen!
The people of Mykonos love to please their guests. You will find yourself being invited for grand Greek meals and delicious Ouzo on many occasions!
Mykonos is a great place for the person looking to completely relax or for the person wanting to experience its history and culture! There are plenty of fascinating museums and some amazing 16th century windmills!
My three-night stay went very quickly, however, I did feel like I had ample opportunity to explore and savor this lovely island.
Then it was off to Santorini by Ferry. The ferry trip was breathtaking along the gorgeous Aegean Sea! I really believe that the people living in this area are some of the luckiest in the world!
Once we started to enter the bay of Santorini, the beauty of this lush island struck me. One of my favourite things to do on the island was visit the wineries. There are six to choose from and all of them have wonderful wines for you to sip!
Another great feature I loved was the pristine and unique beaches. Each beach has special characteristics with some having beautiful black shining pebbles and others with red and white sand.
How could I forget to tell you about the wonderful food! Going to Greece means eating way too much food. Nevertheless, how can you resist all the wonderful flavours and delicious dishes. The Greek people are just so friendly and eager to share their amazing cuisine.
One last thing to share with you, is that the weather in the Greek Islands is just about perfect. When I was there, we received the typical weather of long periods of sunshine and warm, dry days. The cold and rainy season runs from around November until the end of March – so it is best to visit outside those months. I just loved the sun filled days that seemed to go forever!
I hope you get a chance to visit the breathtaking Greek Islands soon. Your vacation to this precious region will leave you wanting more.
Monday, May 15, 2006
Fiji Island Vacation – a Traveler’s Tale
Ever since watching Gilligan’s Island as a little girl, I had fantasies of visiting and even living on a magnificent tropical island. Of course, the dreams of a little girl rarely come true…but in my case, a trip to fantastic Fiji came pretty close!
My husband and I were looking for a destination that would allow us to escape the stressful reality of our busy lives (and I do mean stress). After doing some research and seeing some breathtaking pictures, we decided on Fiji. It is often marketed as a romantic travel destination, and I am here to tell you that it absolutely is.
With so many islands to choose from, we were looking for a gorgeous island that would not be too ‘touristy’. We really wanted something a little bit more private that wasn’t overrun with other tourists and where you are constantly hounded to buy cheap souvenirs.,
For our first trip, we thought that Virgin’s Castaway Island vacation would fit the bill (we had been to London through your company before and had the best time). It seemed to have everything we were looking for in a relaxing getaway. Getting to Castaway Island takes a little bit of work, but I’m telling you the experience is definitely worth the journey. The location of the island is not far from Fiji’s main island Viti Levu. Our package included a catamaran ride to Castaway, which was an exciting start to our vacation.
Castaway is a private resort island featuring sixty-six thatched Fijian styled bungalows. You get your choice of beachfront, ocean view or island view locations. If you can afford it, I highly recommend the beachfront locale because it is truly stunning to wake up every morning and gaze out onto those crystal clear waters and white sand beaches.
I’ve never vacationed in my own private bungalow before and it was a fantastic experience. I just loved the thatched, vaulted ceilings, tropical island style furnishings and modern bathroom facilities. Vacationing in a private bungalow sure beats a hotel room any day!
The staff of Castaway Island Resort was fantastic and they help ensure you have the type of vacation you dreamed of. If you are content to soak up the sun on their stupendous beaches – that’s fine! Or, if you want to be more active, they have tons activities available like tennis and swimming and the use of their water sports equipment is free! There is something for everyone at the Castaway Island resort!
On an island like this one, you hope that the food will match the spectacular surroundings. Well, this resort did not disappoint. An unbelievable breakfast buffet got us started each morning. I could have lived on the tantalizing tropical fruits alone! A terrific casual dining menu is available for the remainder of the day.
Dinners were tremendous as we dined al fresco (I couldn’t help thinking about my friends suffering in a very cold winter as we were dining in beautiful warm evenings under the stars). The a la carte menu offered up unbelievable seafood and great meat based entrees. The resort offers truly gourmet food that doesn’t disappoint.
If you go, be sure to partake in the Wednesday Fijian Feast and Saturday Beach BBQ. These were great opportunities to mingle with other guests and experience traditional Fijian food and entertainment.
As a bit of a wine lover, I was pleasantly surprised to discover a terrific selection of South Pacific wines available. There was so many that it was difficult to choose!
I almost forgot the diving! Being new to diving, my husband and I decided to get out once during our trip with their PADI certified dive operation. The unspoiled coral reef was a truly astounding display of vibrant colors and fish species I’m not likely to ever see again! If you are a diver, or want to learn, Castaway Island is the perfect place. You can even choose an eel or shark encounter if you so desire!
Well, my trip to Castaway is now a vivid memory in my brain and in digital pictures. We loved it so much, we are anxious to explore one of the other many island in this truly magical area of the world. I hope that someday, you too will become a castaway in fantastic Fiji! Thanks for a great trip!
Mandy L. - Pasadena, CA
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Brilliant London Travel - My Experience
Editor’s Note: This is a submission from Shannon in New York City - a Virgin Vacations’ customer who wanted to share her experience with us here at http://www.vvjournal.com. Thanks very much Shannon - we really enjoyed your story! If anyone else would like to share their own experiences, advice or recommendations please feel free send them to us at blogger@vvjournal.com.
I found myself with some free time so I decided to fulfill a lifelong dream of visiting jolly old England. Knowing that I wouldn’t have enough time to do the entire country justice, I figured that for my first trip across the pond, a jaunt to London would be a great way to introduce me to the wonders of this merry country.
We’ve all seen London in television and movies with its double decker buses, crowded streets, stunning palaces and of course the tube. I was ready to start my adventure.
From my research, I determined that six or seven nights would be a tantalizing introduction. I was dead set on seeing Buckingham Palace; experiencing some nightlife and of course…eating fish and chips!
Although London is a great place to go anytime of year, I chose the spring and thankfully, I had terrific weather (with very little rain!!). Your absolute best bet for great weather is in July and August. But, hey, in England there is no guarantee of sun!
So after arrival I checked into the most quaint boutique hotel (by quaint I mean the room was tiny!!) They had the most helpful front desk staff that helped me plan my London itinerary.
I figured I’d spend much of my time exploring the city by foot. There are some breathtaking buildings and I was blown away by the history of the city. I was also struck by the dichotomy of the city. You will see chauffeurs and beggars standing on the same corner and proper ladies in stuffy hats sharing the sidewalk with punk rockers. I’m quite sure there is no place like it in the world!
Oh yeah, if you go, make sure you partake in afternoon tea! I found it was a great way to relax after being on my feet for much of the day.
On my third day, I continued my adventure by viewing the changing of the guards. What a spectacle of pomp and circumstance! Check out http://www.changing-the-guard.com for dates and times.
After visiting Buckingham Palace, there are so many great sights to see. You can check out Big Ben, Parliament Houses, The Thames, and Trafalgar Square. If all that tradition is getting to be a bit much…stop for a beverage at the Hard Rock Café!
The rest of my vacation included visiting Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral and the National Gallery. The National Gallery is a must for any person who appreciates art – even a little! It houses one of the greatest collections of European paintings in the world. And…entrance is free! http://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/
The number of parks I encountered during my many walks pleasantly surprised me. The friendly clerk at the hotel told me that London has more parkland than most other capitals!
My trip to London would not have been complete without a trip on the tube. And true to form…it broke down! I must admit that I panicked for just a moment, but regulars on the train told me those train breakdowns are a common occurrence. In fact, they are so common because the tube is the most unreliable system…in the world! Breakdowns occur on average – every sixteen minutes!
Oh, I almost forgot the fish and chips! I actually went out twice to establishments recommended by locals. Duke of Cambridge has a Victorian pub ambiance with an extensive menu. I sat on the terrace and enjoyed a huge plate of traditional fish and chips! Great pub to visit with friends!
The Fish Shop on John Street is more upscale than your typical fish shop, but after a day of scouring London – you deserve a great meal in a nice place!
My trip to lovely London was unbelievable. From the regal sites, great galleries and rich history – I’m hooked. Research for my next trip is already underway and I hope to get a chance to experience even more of the city and experience the breathtaking countryside! You should too!
Friday, April 07, 2006
Paris en Trois Jours! - Paris Travel Tips
Get ready folks - we are going to show you how you can experience an amazing Paris vacation in three days!
Day 1
Get your notepad and pen ready because this is going to be the art seeing, wine drinking, fun fest you’ve always dreamed of. Once off the plane take the metro to downtown Paris. Make sure to change out some cash for Euros since Paris is part of the European Union and no longer accepts the native currency.
Once in downtown Paris head to the Eiffel Tower, you know you want to. It’s good to get this over with because it’s the number 1 tourist attraction in Paris. Bring a jacket if you plan on riding the Effile Elevator to the top, it gets breezy up there.
After you leave the Eiffel Tower head to the Cathedral Notre Dame to see an amazing Catholic land mark. Known for its amazing architecture, the cathedral will make you thank the holy saints for Paris.
Make your way to Hippopotamus, a great restaurant known for its steak, and red wines. Enjoy a glass of Merlot, and be sure to take your time. In France a short lunch is 2 hours, so don’t feel rushed.
Once finished at the café, take the metro downtown to the Galeries Layfayette, where the shopping is second to none. Be sure to bring some euros because this is a once in a lifetime experience. Discover why Paris is the fashion capital of the world.
Are you tired yet? You should be, head back to your hotel for some rest.
Make some plans at the hotel bar for a light dinner, and be sure to have the cheese for desert. In France cheese is as popular a desert as pecan pie here in The States.
Day 2
Wake up; it’s time to go to see some art. If you’re in Paris you must go to the Monet Museum, where the ultimate Monet collection is held. Get there early because this is one of the most popular tourist spots in Paris.
From the Monet Museum head to the Champs-Elysees for some more sight seeing. Take a walk and see the amazing gardens and art on the street. Have lunch at Bistro Romain where fixed priced menus help you stay in budget.
Take the metro to the Les Halles District for a night of excitement. If you’re feeling in the mood to get rowdy go to Café Oz, an old pub with a great brew selection.
Day 3
Wake up and smell the Café, that’s French for coffee. On your final day in France be sure to discover the Louvre where the famous Mona Lisa is housed. Walk the site with passion. It’s something you will never forget.
Head to Buffalo Grill for lunch and if you’re feeling adventurous try the ostrich.
Next take the metro to Maison Du Chocolat where you will have the best chocolate you’ve ever tasted. Freshly made, rich tasting sweets line the streets of this area. Buy some for the family at home and they’ll love you forever.
Take the metro to Boutique Maille Paris to smell the mustard. That’s right, what else did you think it would be. The home of Dijon mustard is fun for sight seeing and shopping.
Finally head back to your hotel, and get some rest for your flight home from your amazing Paris vacation!
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
London Travel Tips – Places to Visit in London (in 3 days!)
Welcome to one of the most historic cities on the planet! London is one of the few cities in Europe that still accepts the local currency, so bring some pounds or Euros, because everything in London costs money.
Day 1
Start at the Tower of London rated the most popular tourist site in London. Who doesn’t want to see the Crown Jewels? Bring a camera for this adventure, and some patience as the lines can get sure get long. But trust us - the wait is worth it.
Head over to the Queens Gallery for a continuance of the royal collection. I’m not sure what happened to the King’s Gallery but the Queen’s is as good as it gets.
If you’ve worked up a hunger for something tasty try Harry Ramsden’s, the most famous Fish and Chips in the world.
Next head over to the Sherlock Holmes Museum on Baker Street (there is a tube stop right there) for some crime solving fun; see how he solved all those mysteries in London.
Day 2
Take a trip to Harrods department store in the morning. Known as the ultimate department store, Harrods combines the luxury of an upscale department store with the massive size of a warehouse. Be ready to spend some serious time (and money) here.
Don’t go far for lunch, a great restaurant is the Georgian Café located right inside of Harrods.
After you’ve had your fill of shopping, hop on over to the Museum of London. This will give you a good history of the city.
Next it’s time to see some fish! Go over to the London Aquarium for some great views of rare sea creatures.
For dinner go to the Covent Garden Grill and enjoy a relaxing dinner with amazing scenery.
Day 3
On the final day of your London vacation check out Windsor Castle, this beauty is over 900 years old!
Head over to the London Zoo for some sight seeing. They have the largest lizard in the world there; bring a camera to photographic the dinosaur looking reptile.
For lunch try the Chor Bizzare which specializes in Indian curry, and other Indian cuisine. Did you know that there are now more curry houses than fish ‘n chip places in London?
Take some time to explore the rest of the city, catch up on those sites you can’t live without seeing. Take in a magnificent sunset..
For dinner go to the Medieval Banquet for a dinner of king size proportions. This is not just a meal, but an experience.
We hope that this helps you plan your amazing London vacation - a trip to remember forever....
Thursday, March 02, 2006
Rome in 3 Days - Rome Travel Tips
If a 6-Night or longer Rome vacation is more time than you can devote to your Rome Getaway, then a 3-Night Rome vacation is the perfect amount of time for you to enjoy the essentials of Rome.
Day 1
Start your Rome vacation bright and early, after enjoying some cappuccino and getting to the Colosseum by 9am (when it opens). After taking in one of the most famous sites in the world, it’s off to the Roman Forum, the best route would be past the Arch of Titus so you can photograph this beautiful piece of history.
You’ll see the splendid Basilica of Maxentius and many other temples as well as the shrine of the Vestal Virgins on your way to the Forum. Take the path up to the top of Capitoline Hill to Via di Monte Tarpeo and you’ll be at the top of the group of museums and palazzo that are part of Michelangelo’s legendary Campidoglio.
Make sure you visit Musei Capitolini and see the amazing sculptures, you will want to photograph Capitoline Wolf and Dying Gaul for sure. You’ll want to head to Santa Maria in Aracoeli a legendary perch, 137 steps high adorned with Vittorio Emanuele Monument (Altar of the Nation).
After enjoying some Italian fare in the area, it is off to Santa Maria Sopra Minerva where you can see Michelangelo’s Risen Christ before heading to the legendary Pantheon, followed by a short walk to the Trevi Fountain which is a must when in Rome.
Before enjoying a wonderful dinner, it is off to the Spanish Steps that have been written about for centuries.
After a night on the town you may want to turn in so you can get a jump-start on Day 2 and The Vatican during your Rome vacation.
Day 2
Start with a walk to the Vatican and a tour of the museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and its famous ceiling, Piazza di San Pietro and then it will be time for some more film. Try not to forget to see Pieta while in the Vatican!
After a wonderful late lunch you are off to Piazza Bocca della Verita to see Santa Maria in Cosmedin, Tempio della Fortuna Virilis and Tempio di Vesta. Spend some time walking around the area and soaking in the atmosphere, you may enjoy the heart of the old Jewish Ghetto at Via di Portico d’Ottavia.
Enjoy another great meal and a night on the town, but get plenty of rest for....
Day 3
Will be a great day trip to Tivoli and a nice night out to absorb all of Rome’s culture.
On your last day you can begin a day of sights at the Villa Borghese, the largest park in Rome and then heading to Palazzo Massimo alle Terme and then the Baths of Diocletian – just make sure you have plenty of film!
It’s then off to Santa Maria della Vittoria where you can see Bernini’s St Theresa in Ecstasy before you head to Santa Maria del Popolo and then a wonderful meal to cap off your 3-Nights Rome vacation.
Tuesday, February 07, 2006
Visiting Helsinki, Finland - Helsinki Travel Tips
Helsinki is a terrific and beautiful city that is ideal to tour on foot, or using the extensive public transportation system for outlying areas. When visiting Helsinki, you will want to take the time to see all of the most important sites.
At the heart of this great city you will discover Senate Square. This epicenter is graced by three wonderful buildings: the Cathedral; the University of Helsinki and the Council of State. All these amazing buildings were constructed in the early to mid-1800s and were designed by C.L. Engel in the Neo-Classical style.
A short walk from Senate Square are some other terrific sites for you take in, including the National Library, Esplanade Park, the Sofiankatu Museum and the famous Market Square that is filled with fruit, vegetable and souvenir stalls in the summer months.
After perusing the great stalls at the Market Square you can be off to the Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress, built in the 1700s it is one of the largest maritime fortresses in the world. Soumenlinna was built on six islands off the cost of the city and is one of the most famous sites in all of Finland.
What is there to do at Suomenlinna? This legendary site has something for everyone with amazing museums, great cafes and restaurants, many special events, swimming and a terrific area to picnic and enjoy the wonders of nature.
For great family value packages to Helsinki click here.
Well you would not want to miss the Sea Life Sea Life & Helsinki Zoo and the Linnanmaki Amusement Park. This amusement park adds a new attraction every year and has a legendary rollercoaster. One visit to the park and you will see why it is the highlight of every Finnish child’s summer vacation each year.
The Helsinki Zoo is located on Korkeasaari Island and includes terrific exotic animals from different tundra including the Arctic and the tropical rainforest. The majority of the animals can be seen all year round.
Do you have a little Jacques Cousteau in you? The Sea Life is a great voyage from the tropical waters to the Arctic sea with great exhibitions along the way including terrific species currently in danger.
Do you love architecture and old churches? Helsinki is dotted with beautiful, quaint and unique churches (unique churches can be good link to the land only package) including the afore mentioned Cathedral of Helsinki which is one of the most recognizable buildings in all of Finland.
The Temppeliaukio ‘Rock’ Church is one of Finland’s most popular tourist attractions and one of the most respected examples of modern architecture in Helsinki. Quarried out of the natural bedrock, the church has excellent acoustics and is a popular venue for concerts.
After visiting some beautiful churches, keep your camera out for your excursions to the wonderful worlds of art. The Ateneum Art Museum, which is the National Gallery of Finland has the largest art collection in the nation that includes Van Gogh, Gauguin and Cezanne.
Perhaps you want some contemporary art. As in most European cities, contemporary art and the museums that house them are both stimulating and controversial and Kiasma is not an exception to the rule. A must see for lovers of art.
And of course, as you enjoy the wonderful sites of this great city, do not forget to taste the great Finnish treats, soak in the atmosphere and enjoy a truly wonderful city – Helsinki, Finland.
Friday, January 13, 2006
Travel and Vacation Packing Tips – Things to Remember Before a Vacation
Everyone gets so excited about a vacation that they forget to take care of some of the basics before they leave. Here are some helpful reminders to help make your vacation worry-free!
MAIL
Make sure your mail doesn’t pile up in your mailbox, that can lead to you not receiving important documents and other mail and it also can be a tip-off for people with ill intentions that no one is home.
It’s easy to request a temporary holding of delivery services from your post office. The great thing is you can now do this online - check out this page here from the USPS. It’s also a good idea to anticipate any important mail that you may be expecting over the course of your vacation and contact the people sending it to let them know you are leaving.
NEWSPAPERS
Do not let your newspapers pile up outside your house, either arrange for someone to take them in or make sure you suspend their delivery.
LIGHTS ON
Some people like to leave lights on in the home, or put them on timers so their home is never completely dark. If you have someone you trust to enter your home while on vacation you may consider having them put on some lights and perhaps even the television while you are away.
PETS & PLANTS
Don’t forget your pets or plants (most people forget plants but never their pets or at least we hope not!) You can ask someone to water your plants for you to make sure they are looking great when you get home. Pets can either be checked-in on, boarded or left with a friend.
Just remember the more you take care of in advance the more you can relax and enjoy your well deserved vacation.
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Switzerland Travel Tips (It Should Be On Your Must Visit List)
Switzerland is an often-overlooked vacation destination that has so much to offer that it should be at the top of people’s lists.
A Switzerland vacation is perfect for those people who want a little bit of everything. In the course of your vacation you can ski in The Alps, enjoy lakeside views of Lake Geneva, enjoy wonderful food, great culture and amazing nightlife.
You can take a day trip to France, Italy or Germany and truly see the hidden jewel that Switzerland is. While in Switzerland you can experience Swiss, French, German, Italian and Romansh culture.
Romansh? Yes, Romansh. Romansh is one of the official languages of Switzerland and has Latin roots.
Switzerland is a destination that is as fun and exciting as you want it to be, as relaxing and quaint as you want it to be and as educational and enlightening as you want it to be.
Consider Switzerland for your next vacation destination.
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Can't Agree on a Family Vacation? - Family Vacation Tips
Is your family unable to agree on a vacation destination? Why pick just one? Many travelers find it difficult to pick a destination to appease all members of their family. Because many vacationers are used to only picking one destination per vacation they find it difficult to please everyone.
3-night Fling vacations are a great choice to appease everyone because you can add two or three fling vacations together, or space them throughout the year so everyone is happy.
Short-duration vacations are a great way to explore multiple cities in a year and experience all the many sites, sounds and tastes the world has to offer.
This can be the year you start really experiencing the wonders of the entire world.
Vacation Tips for Paris Travelers
Paris vacation packages are more popular than ever before thanks to the popularity of The Da Vinci Code. The Louvre, one of Paris’ most famous attractions has seen a tremendous increase in visitation over the past 18 months and many are attributing it to the popular book that is soon to be a movie.
If you are one of the millions of people that will visit the Mona Lisa in 2006, make sure you block sufficient time to view the countless pieces of priceless art that grace the halls and galleries of this amazing museum.
The staff of the Louvre often comment at how many people fly past Botticelli’s and other Michelangelo works to visit the Mona Lisa - so be prepared to spend several hours at this incredible museum rather than miss amazing pieces of artwork on your quest to visit the Mona Lisa.
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The ultimate blog about the wonderful world of vacation travel brought to you by Virgin Vacations. Learn what you need to know to get the most out of your next vacation. Virgin Vacations is the way life should be.
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