High Tatras National Park, Slovakia / Photo by Claire for Europe Explored

1. Decent sized day pack:

Not too big, not too small and preferably with lots of handy compartments. About 50 cl should do it, and if at all possible get a bag which comes with a waterproof cover for all weather conditions.

2. Tent:

The ultimate in outdoor survival, especially if you plan on staying out all night and star gazing. There are plenty of light-weight, waterproof varieties on the market, just make sure the one you buy will fit comfortably into your back pack.

3. Water:

Probably the most important, but sadly the most often overlooked. Taking more than enough is always plentiful, especially if going on a hike, as you just don’t know when you’ll next be able to re-fill.

4. Map:

When you arrive at the park visit the office or wardens cabin and acquire a map, preferably one with hiking trails, that way you won’t have to lay a trail of breadcrumbs to find your way back.

Czech Paradise National Park, The Czech Republic / Photo by Claire for Europe Explored

5. Torch:

This one’s mainly for camping purposes, but handy none the less to have on you, you’ll certainly benefit in the caves at Mammoth or Carlsbad Caverns national parks. A head torch is ideal for night time cooking.

6. Synthetics or wool:

Not cotton – because cotton doesn’t stay warm when wet, so if you sweat and it’s cold you won’t be able to keep warm easily. Clothing in general is good to think about – pack lots of thin layers so you can add to your attire if cold, thermals are a great addition for under garments too.

7. Waterproof everything:

Light weight jacket and trousers, because even in America you never know what the weather will be like, and you’d be surprised how wet you can get stood next to the falls of Yosemite, if it’s cold when you visit, you’ll certainly appreciate those waterproof layers.

8. Batteries:

Camera, torch, kindle or whatever else you need batteries for, if you’re stuck in the most beautiful stop in the world without a working camera is probably one of the most excruciating experiences ever. Remember the boy scouts motto and always ‘be prepared’.

When packing for any holiday it’s important to make thorough lists about what you need and what you want, it keeps you focussed on the activities you’ll be doing, and stops you from over packing. One essential piece of advice would be not to pack or buy anything you think you can get cheaper abroad, thermals, water bottles and generally anything you think you can get cheaper where you’re going should be left out if possible, to make more room for other essentials.

Holli likes to travel and in her spare time takes every opportunity to experience the outdoors.

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And then of course there is the world-famous Champagne, which is unique to the French district of the same name, in Reims. Therefore wine tours are one of the best ways to sample wines and at the same time see the amazingly beautiful areas of Europe responsible for these delicious beverages.

Photo by admin

Basque Country – Spain

This area is well-known for its Riojas and there are plenty of opportunities to tour the Bodegas or wineries made famous by this rich red wine. Try the Marques de Riscal one of the most well-known wineries in Basque country, and only an 11 minute drive from LaGaurdia, it also has a spectacular hotel attached to it. You are able to taste and sample a variety of wines here and also taste some of the delicious meals created by the top on-site chefs, handy to soak up all of the alcohol!

Quinta da Aveleda – Portugal

Near the City of Porto along the west coast of Portugal, the international number one wine tasting experience at Quinta da Aveleda is not to be missed. Only a 30 minute drive from Porto the main building is covered in lush green ivy and surrounded by beautiful gardens that you can stroll around. You get taken around by friendly helpful guides (who can also speak English) and they show you the vineyards and grapes that they make into Vino Verde. This unique green-tinged wine tastes light and refreshing; you are able to taste whole bottles of wines at the end of the tour. The staff are more than happy to accommodate your personal tastes if you would rather try a different wine to your partner or travel companion.

Quinta da Aveleda, Portugal by zip 95

Margaux – France

Just north of the more well-known wine tasting area of Bordeaux, Margaux is arguably one of the most refined wines of the region. With glorious countryside and ancient castles and forts surrounding the area, you are likely to stumble upon a truly delicious vintage at this unique winery. In order to make it a more seamless vacation, why not go on a cruise for wine lovers? You can go from Southampton in the UK and then tour the regions with a guide and share your love of wine with other like-minded fellows.

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Tower Bridge / Frank Steiner

One interesting thing about the survey was that there was actually a drop in the number of visitors in May, this was because May saw stunning weather in the UK and therefore there was a drop in indoor attractions in London but outside attractions saw a massive boost. This is a great consideration for the UK Tourism Companies, in order to be prepared for an un-predictable UK Climate, they should ensure the attractions can cater for both weather conditions.

What does this show?

It shows London is as popular as ever with overseas tourists flocking here in the Summer months to see all the fabulous culture and fine restaurants and attractions that London has to offer. It is also great to see that the attractions in London are appreciated by those that visit London and also shows just how important Tourism is to the UK and London economy. It also shows that people are willing to spend money on seeing attractions even if the pricing could be considered expensive, what is important to tourists to London is value for money – they are happy to pay more but they expect more for it.

Houses of Parliament / shining.darkness

What are the key attractions that people visit?

The Key attractions that are the most popular with tourists to London are the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. Of course not everyone that wants to come to London spends just their time in London and there are a wealth of things outside London that people want to see such as Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, Bath and even short trips up to Edinburgh. What this survey shows though is that those people who come to London don’t just stay in – they get out and about and visit the range of Museums, shows, attractions that are on offer in London and it is important to the UK Economy that these attractions remain at the front of other cities as they are a showpiece for London and a huge source of income to the UK.

For more information about London Attractions check out www.sightseeingtourslondon.com or to see some of the other great UK Sightseeing Tours on offer Click Here.

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Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Sue

Some people are intimidated by Internet resources. However, anyone who’s had basic computer classes will find booking online to be simple and painless. Take a look at some information that may be helpful during your quest.

Tips for Booking a Vacation to Algarve Online

1. Identify a Specific Location

Before you can secure a trip to Algarve online, it’s crucial to make sure you have a particular destination in mind. Algarve is comprised of several exhilerating cities, such as Albufeira, Lagos, Silves, and Monte Gordo, that attract swarms of tourists every year. Find out what makes each region unique so you know what area will best suit you.

2. Check Out Online Tourist Guides and Translator Services

Consulting with a virtual tourist guide or a representative of an online translation services can work wonders when it comes to expanding your knowledge of online resources regarding Algarve. A qualified tourist guide can provide their expertise on the region’s most popular attractions, weather conditions, recommended tours and excursions, cheap hotels, nightlife options, beach locations, restaurants, and much more.

In addition, finding a reputable translator is also valuable. If you’re not familiar with speaking Portuguese, a representative that speaks the language fluently can be extremely beneficial. Don’t let a language barrier put a damper on your vacation abroad.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Tony Bowden

3. Skim Websites with Affordable Packages

Bargain shopping online is just as essential as it is in retail outlets and grocery stores. As you’re looking to book your vacation to Algarve, review Money Saving Blogs that’ll provide essential cost-effective ways to have a good time even while on your dream getaway. Afterwards, it’s feasible to search websites with the most economical offers. Many sites enable viewers to purchase packages which is inevitably cheaper than securing flights, lodging accomodations, transportation, and additional items separately. Narrowing down your booking options by comparing the prices of several sites will ultimately save dividends in the longrun.

4.  Research Security Measures

Along with the positives of the dominant information age, there’s also several negatives that come along with it. One happens to includes nasty online scams that can sour users’ experience, or worse, their financial situation. Beware of identity theft and websites that don’t place a priority on protecting the personal information of its users. You need to ensure that all the details you provide over the internet are kept confidential and that the site doesn’t release your account specifics to a third party, but stores them in a hidden, secure database.

5. Know the Terms and Conditions

Another significant element of booking your trip online is to read the site’s terms and conditions in its entirety. Merely skimming the information can result in failure to read crucial details involving your arrangements and could make it impossible to recover from damages. For example, many of the more economical packages on some sites are non-refundable. You need to be aware of this in the event something comes up and you need to request cancellation.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by amaianos

6. Save Your Itinerary

Once you’ve confirmed the information on your travel arrangements and secured an itinerary, be sure to save it for your records. Many websites also store a copy in their system, but it’s always good to have a back-up option in your care in case of emergencies.

7. Relax

There’s no need to fret after your arrangements are in place. Sit back and take pride in your future vacation in Algarve. Safe travels!

Useful links:
Algarve.org (2012).
Algarve Online Services (2012).

Joy Martin is a travel writer with Article Writing Services who has developed quality travel content for sites like Computer Classes. For more information on booking cheap travel, check out Money Saving Blogs.

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Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Sue Elias

What to Expect in Algarve

There’s some places that encourage guests to visit at a specific time of the year to avoid uncomfortable weather conditions. Fortunately, that’s not the case in Algarve, Portugal. Tourists are welcome to spend time there year-round without having to worry about unbearable climate changes getting in the way of their fun. Although work schedules may need to be tweaked for those in the labor markets, retirees tend to prepare a vacation whenever it suits them. Also, tudents are typically fond of visiting on their own time, particularly those enrolled in online colleges that make it possible to submit assignments over the computer.

Overall, the weather in Algarve is ideal. Temperatures normally stay between 77 degrees to 95 degrees fahrenheit throughout most of the warmer months and typically never drops below freezing level (32 degrees fahrenheit) during the cooler months. In addition, it remains one of the most sunniest regions in the world and hardly gets rainfall. The area’s Meditteranean climate results in an influx of visitors flocking there during the holidays.

Weather by Season

Winter

Most people assume that every region experience drastic changes during the winter season. However, Algarve is among the few places that incurs very little alterations. From late November to February, temperatures are likely to fluctuate between 50 and 60 degrees fahrenheit. Occasionally, there tends to be more frosty weather, and rainfall is at its peak but the overall atmospheric condition is considered mild compared to other parts of Europe at this time. Those who want a fairly gentle winter and don’t mind some wet days will find this spot most suitable.

Spring

In the springtime, weather in the Algarve is extremely pleasant, especially for visitors who enjoy more sunshine accompanied by light breezes. March through May promises warmer temperatures that cool down during the evenings, particularly in areas near the ocean. Lovers of greenery and outdoor activities are urged to come during this time since plantlife is revived and the climate possess some coolness that makes it comfortable to engage in happenings that promote high energy and/or strenuous movement.

Summer

Those who are at their best in the sunshine will revel in Algarve’s climate between June and August. At this time, tourists can experience balmy conditions to seering heat. Normal  summer temperatures normally range from the mid 70′s to the mid 90′s, enabling people to cool off at one of Algarve’s many beaches. Be mindful of considerably dry atmospheres, as well as high levels of wind and sand that are blown in from the Sahara dessert.

Fall

Like the summer, autumn can remain fairly warm, especially in September and October. By November, the regions typically witnesses a dramatic cooldown with temperatures as low as 55 degrees. The weather becomes even colder as the sun goes down and night sets in, particularly in coastal areas. If you’re a fan of nature and attracted to the fall’s aesthetic quality, this is a good time to go on a few hikes or simply watch the leaves turn colors from the comfort of one Algarve’s many cheap hotels.

Sources
TripAdvisor, LLC. (2012).
HolidayWeather.com. (2012).

Joy Martin works with Article Writing Services to write travel content for Online Colleges and other websites and blogs. To find more information on traveling to Algarve, visit Global Travel Blogs.

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Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Hungarian Snow

Another interesting mountain range is Börzsöny which is protected by National Park of Duna-Ipoly. It lies at the Slovakian border, above Budapest, and includes also popular Hungarian towns of Visegrád and Nagymaros.

The park is also famous for many castles and forts. It is a pleasant, mostly forested landscape that waves together with the banks of the Danube and Ipoly rivers, interwoven with series of waterways and wetlands. Only in the Börzsöny mountains there are more than 335 different springs and streams. This area is one of the least accessible parts of Hungary. There are no roads, but you can get there by the narrow gauge railway which is also interesting and popular technical monument here. Of course, the best way how you can get to know the landscape is on foot, but be careful, some parts of the park are not accessible at all due to protection.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Tamas Ring

Most features of the landscape were created by volcanic activity, there are an extinct volcanic cones, steep ravines or bizarre rocks. Fourteen million years ago these places were occupied by the great volcano, about 1400 meters high. After the eruption, the central part of the volcano failed down, so today we can see the remnants of the crater. The highest point of Börzsöny mountain is Csóványos peak with a height of 939 metres above sea level, offering a panoramic view of the region. However, there are also other peaks and hills where you can enjoy beautiful views, such as Hegyes-Tető with the great vista of the Danube. In good weather conditions, you can even see the Slovak High Tatras mountains from some hills.

The area a home to many rare and protected animals, especially reptiles, amphibians and birds including several species of eagles. There are also wild cats and martens. It boasts also a varied composition of plants, including the relics from the post-glacial period.

Börzsöny Mountains are not very visited areas, in comparison with Balaton, Budapest or any of the Hungarian thermal aquaparks. But the prices here are reasonable and the romantic local scenery is an alternative for less demanding, but interesting holiday – especially for hikers and cyclists.

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The thermal water in swimming pools
All pools in the resort are filled with the natural thermal water which rises from a depth of 1611 meters and has beneficial effects. Thermal water is highly mineralized sodium – calcium – magnesium – sulphurous with high iron content. Its composition helps to musculoskeletal disorders, urinary tract and kidneys. Water temperature ranges up to about 58 °C, so it must be cooled.

Thanks to the thermal water, Aquapark Oravice is available 12 months a year regardless on the weather conditions. It covers an area of 1545 square meters and you can find here a great sport – relaxing pool, large and small relaxation pool and cooling pool. The pools are equipped with water attractions such as artificial waves, bubble seats, bubble benches, a geyser, a water mushroom, spouts, massaging jets. Of course there is also a water slide.

Wellness and other services
Aquapark Oravice provide also wellness services, you can use sauna and massage center, as well as restaurants and sports facilities. Aquapark is closely connected with the local ski center, which is built on very good level and is among the most visited ski resorts in the Orava region.

Visiting Aquapark Oravice can be ideal for the hiking nad skiing lovers. I think there is no better option than rest in a hot thermal water after the whole-day mountain trip in summer or skiing in winter. On the other side, swimming in the water while there is a snow all around you could be also very nice experience!

There are also many attractions you can visit nearby, one of them is Orava Castle, which is one of the most beautiful and best preserved castles in Slovakia.

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The Millau Viaduct serves to the speed up and calm the traffic. Before its construction it was necessary first to descend into the valley and then climb again on the other side, which greatly slowed down the transport, and meant a significant traffic load in the valley.

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The Millau Viaduct consists of 8 road fields, supported by seven pillars, which have the shape of an inverted Y. The road is 2460 m long and weighs 36,000 tons. Each field is 342 meters long (2 outer field has a length of 204 m), in the middle of these fields there is a pillar. 90 m high pylons rise above the road (each weighs over 600 tons) and with ropes keep the roadway between the pillars. A maximum height of the road above the ground is 246 meters.

The actual construction work began in October 2001, but weather conditions greatly complicated the construction which finally lasted for 3 years.

Millau Viaduct is not only the tallest bridge in the world but also the world’s longest cable-stayed deck.

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