10 Best Locations in Spain for Family Holidays

Spain, with its varied landscape attracts thousands of visitors every year. The country in South Western Europe is a perfect destination for a family holiday. We have compiled the top 10 destinations for a perfect family holiday in this beautiful country.

Barcelona

Barcelona, the second largest city of Spain is one of the top draws for vacationers. Barcelona is one of the major global cities of the world and boasts of many historical monuments, recreational areas and UNESCO world heritage sites. Park Güell, La Rambla, Sagrada Familia, La Barceloneta, etc. are some of the other attractions of the city.

Madrid

The capital and the largest city of Spain is perfect for family holidays. The city on the banks of Manzanares River boasts of modern infrastructure and historic neighborhoods. Palacio Real, Museo del Prado, Plaza Mayor, Puerta de Alcalá, etc. are some of the places worth visiting in Madrid.

Seville

Situated on the plain of the river Guadalquivir, Seville houses three UNESCO world heritage sites. Seville is the capital of the autonomous community of Andalusia and has many landmarks such as Seville Cathedral, Palace of San Telmo, Plaza de España, Archaeological Museum, Museum of Arts and Traditions, etc.

Granada

Granada is one of the top spots for family holidays in Spain and is famous for its parks and gardens. Alhambra, Casa del arte flamenco, The Generalife, Royal Chapel, etc. are some of the top attractions of Granada.

Valencia

Valencia is the third largest city of Spain situated on the banks of Turia River. Ancient monuments and cultural attractions make Valencia one of the best tourist destinations of the country. The main sights of Valencia are Valencia Cathedral, Torres de Serranos, Museo Nacional de Ceramica Gonzalez Marti, etc.

Palma de Mallorca

Situated on the South coast of the island on the Bay of Palma, Palma de Mallorca is one of the top draws for tourists in the nation. Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma, Canyon de la Calobra, etc. will give you and your family evergreen memories.

Malaga

Family holidays to Spain are incomplete without visiting Malaga. It is one of the oldest cities in the world founded in 770 BC. Castillo de Gibralfaro, Fundación Cueva de Nerja, Los Gaitanes, Puente Nuevo, etc. are some of the major sights of Malaga.

Marbella

An archeological heritage city, Marbella is in between Gibralter Strait and Malaga. The city is the home of some of the most beautiful museums such as Contemporary Spanish Engraving Museum, Ralli Museum, Bonsai Museum, etc.

Salamanca

Salamanca also called the golden city of Spain is famous for various religious buildings such as Capilla de la Vera Cruz, La Clerecía, Convento de las Dueñas, etc. Casa Lis, Garci Grande Palace, Tower del Aire, etc. are the other highlights of the city.

Benidorm

A coastal town in the province of Alicante, Benidorm is known for its hotels, beaches and skyscrapers. Mundomar, Aqua Natura, Terra Mitica, etc. are few of the places worth visiting in the city.

Ritesh Bhuwania is an Online Travel Expert in the Industry for the Last 15 years. With his rich experience in handling Customized Tours and Experience Management of the Traveller, He founded ezeerooms.com to transfer his concepts of Experience Management to Travellers the world over.

Top 10 Vacation Spots in Arizona

Scenic desert drives, water sports, skiing, hiking, site-seeing, professional sports and camping are just the tip of the iceberg of things to do in the great state of Arizona, which offers one of the most diverse landscapes in the United States. Picking the top 10 tourist attractions while on vacation in Arizona is very difficult, to say the least. When traveling through Arizona it's a must to buy a detailed map of the area you plan on visiting, because Arizona has numerous hidden treasures within the desert.

Outlined below is a list of the biggest attractions that the state of Arizona has to offer. It's a must that you are prepared when you plan a road trip through this beautiful state. The demands of American life usually only afford us so many annual vacations, you're going to get short changed anyway during your stay. But if for some reason you have a couple of weeks to work with, there will be no shortage of things to do during your travels through Arizona.

1. Grand Canyon National Park - The Grand Canyon speaks for itself; this is Arizona's pride and joy. The Grand Canyon is located in the northwest part of the state. Carved out by the Colorado River over millions of years. One of America's natural wonders and first National Parks, its one thing you must see during your lifetime; it's also one of the Seven Wonders of the World. River rafting, hiking and the skywalk on the West Rim are good starters...just to name a few. While in the Grand Canyon area, be sure to check out the Reindeer Farm west of Flagstaff.

2. Hoover Dam - A lot more than just a big stack of concrete, the mere size of Hoover Dam is awe-inspiring. Constructed in the 1930's, Hoover Dam is located in northwest Arizona sharing a border with Nevada. Named after former president Herbert Hoover, Hoover Dam was one of the biggest projects of it's time. During your visit to Hoover Dam make sure that you visit Lake Mead.

3. Sedona AZ- Located south of Flagstaff, in Red Rock country, is another one of Arizona's not so best kept secrets. Sedona is home to some of Arizona's and Hollywood's elite; Sharon Stone and Al Pacino have homes in Sedona, so does John Travolta. Sedona also has some of the most beautiful sunsets and scenic drives in the country. Numerous hiking and biking trails dominate the colorful red rock sandstone landscape. Must-sees when you travel to Sedona include the Solid Rock church and Slide Rock Park. Kill an entire day sliding down natural rock formations. While in the Sedona area make sure that you check out Jerome and Prescott as well.

4. Monument Valley Park - Located in the northeastern part of the state, Monument Valley is famous for the legendary battles between the Roadrunner and Wiley Coyote (Warner Brothers cartoons), and the popular desert scene in National Lampoon's 'Vacation' movies. Dominated by colorful plateaus and mesas, in some respects Monument valley is the face of the Southwest. The most popular landmarks of Monument Valley are located on the Navaho Tribal Park on the Utah border. While in the area, make sure that you check out the Utah side of Monument Valley.

5. Lake Havasu, AZ - Lake Havasu City is home of the London Bridge. Brought over from England in the 1960's, the London Bridge put Lake Havasu on the map. The English Village surrounding the bridge, and is just one of the oddities you'll find in this desert paradise. Water sports, lake tours, off road driving, spring break and enjoying sunsets, to name a few, are very popular in this desert oasis. While in Lake Havasu City make sure that you check out Parker Dam, which is located about 30 miles south.

6. Lake Powell Arizona- Lake Powell is a manmade reservoir located in northern Arizona, sharing a border with Utah. Made famous for its "bath tub" ring around the lake and its beautiful moon-like landscape, canyons, and towering rock formations. Here, you will find that camping and renting a houseboat are also tourist favorites. Rent a houseboat and get lost beneath the stars while at Lake Powell Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

7. Havasupai Falls - Havasupai Falls one of the most scenic travel locations in Arizona, period. Located deep in the Grand Canyon, there are four sets of falls: Mooney Falls, Havasu Falls, Navajo Falls and Beaver Falls. The blue-green water caused by high mineral content turns the falls and its natural pools into a tropical lagoon-style setting. Most of us will need to hike to get there, although helicopter rides are available.

8. Painted Desert - Located near the south rim of the Grand Canyon, the Painted Desert's precedes its name. Its multicolored landscape is breathtaking. Viewing the Painted Desert at sunrise is a must. The Painted Desert sits between the Grand Canyon and the Petrified Forest, so make sure to hit all three during your travels. Meteor Crater is also a must-see.

9. Tombstone, AZ - Dubbed "The town too tough to die," Tombstone is the most notorious of the old mining towns from the Wild West. Made famous from the fight at the OK Corral, along with some of its legendary residents, Wyatt Earp and Doc Holladay, Tombstone's story has been told in numerous books and movies. While in Tombstone, do yourself a favor and visit Saguaro National Park.

10. Oatman, AZ- Another old mining town that rarely gets the recognition that it deserves is Oatman, Arizona. Located south of Bullhead City, Arizona, lies this old mining town. Its current population is roughly 100. This quaint town consists of only novelty shops that cater to tourists. But its main attraction is the donkeys that wonder the streets and the popular gunfight shows. Most of the stores sell carrots to feed to the donkeys, which have no problem eating them from right from your hands. If you have kids and want to experience a taste of the old west, Oatman is a must-see.

To learn more about amazing Arizona vacation spots, including great links and tons of free information, please visit: [http://www.arizonavacationtravel.com]

Dusseldorf And Bonn Great Germany Cities To See

There are a lot of countries that you can visit especially this summer. Your kids would definitely enjoy a walk through the finest cities of Germany. If you plan of visiting Germany in the near future, you should get prepared for an experience like you have never had before. Do your best to get around Germany and its various cities for there are so many interesting things to do and see there

There are various places that you can visit if you go to Germany. The country boasts of beautiful and majestic cities and one of these great German cities is Düsseldorf. Düsseldorf is the German Federal State of North Rhine-Westphalia's capital city. This is the communal portal of the Federal State. This metropolitan city is located along the Rhine River; and similar to most German cities, the city is densely popular with more than 11 million inhabitants. It is a bustling metropolis which has a lot of to offer.

Düsseldorf is quite famous for a lot of attractions. One of the most famous attractions is the cities various carnivals. The city is also well known for its flair for fashion and trade fairs. The Boot Messe and Igedo are trade fairs that shouldn't be missed. Millions of people visit Düsseldorf just so they can enjoy the various fairs especially the Große Düsseldorf Kirmes Fair.

There are a lot of must-sees in Düsseldorf. You can take a day or two from visiting the whole of Germany to devote to Düsseldorf. The city is packed with architectural masterpieces that dot the city's landscape. There are beautiful old buildings that meshed well with modern architectural designs. The people are lively, warm and friendly. There is so much that you can see in this metropolitan city. There are also a lot of things that you can do. You may be able to spare only a couple of days but you can still fully enjoy your stay at Dusseldorf.

Another great city in Germany is Bonn which is also found along the Rhine River. It was the capital city of Germany from 1949 up until 1990. It is the political centre of the country and has also developed as one of the main administrative and corporate cities in the country. It is the most densely populated city in Germany and has a thriving economic life.

Bonn like many Germany cities is filled with many old buildings that have survived two world wars and are hundreds of years old. It is a lovely place to see. As you travel around this city it is easy to get caught wondering what it was like living there hundreds of years ago.

It is also the birth place of one of the world's greatest composers, Ludwig van Beethoven and also the home of a number of United Nations organizations.

Bonn's inhabitants do enjoy their city and they can show you how to do the same. You are certainly to feel at home there and chances are you will not want to leave.

When traveling in Germany avail yourself of Car Rental Germany You can visit the cities of Bonn and Dusseldorf and see them in a Car Hire Bonn or a Car Hire Dusseldorf

Top 3 Places to Visit in Sicily

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, and it can be a little overwhelming to plan a holiday that allows you see the very best that this wonderful destination has to offer.

But while others may limit their tour to seeing the grandeur of Sicily villas, cathedrals and other historical buildings, the best way to get to know the island is to discover all her many facets. The lively markets, the fantastic beaches and landscapes, and the important archaeological sites make this a truly amazing tourist destination, so visitors who want to experience a bit of everything should start with the following sites.

Historical Markets in Palermo

Nothing reveals the authenticity of the island more than the local markets, especially in Palermo, where fresh produce, pastries, breads, cheeses and local crafts abound. When on a holiday to Sicily, villas within easy access of Palermo will enable you to explore in details this wonderfully refreshing city. Stroll around Il Capo, one of Palermo's busiest markets, and the sheer diversity of products and lively atmosphere will make even first-time visitors feel at home instantly. The historical market of Il Capo is best visited during early mornings.

Ancient City of Agrigento

The island is home to five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and you should not miss a visit to Agrigento, a fascinating city featuring ancient Greek architecture. It's a place where the fusion of Italian and Greek influences can be seen and explored in detail. The Valle dei Templi and the Scala dei Turchi are important landmarks in Agrigento, with the former being one of Italy's primary national monuments, and the latter an equally famous ancient icon. One of the most visited towns in Sicily, villas near Agrigento will set you in the heart of a deeply historical region. The city's heritage shows in the classical architecture, ancient buildings and other structures known for their archaeological legacy. There are also ruins of Greek temples scattered throughout the city.

Brilliant Beaches in the Aeolian Islands

When staying in Sicily, villas rented in the summer naturally place you within reach of the island's glorious beaches. The Aeolian Islands, located in the north of the island, are a must-see place to visit. As a product of over 200,000 years of volcanic activities, the islands that make up the archipelago are now a popular tourist attraction. But apart from the spectacular waters surrounding the Aeolian Islands, they also boast a number of caves and rugged cliffs - this amazing landscape is truly breath-taking. The buildings and houses throughout the islands bear a distinct architecture that sets them apart from the rest of the island, and the whitewashed houses perfectly complement the picturesque million-dollar view of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Helen Forbes is from Essential Italy, a company specialising in Italian holiday villas, apartments and hotels. If you're looking for the perfect Sicily villas we can help. Our handpicked villas offer distinctive Italian qualities, great comfort and convenience.

Book a Holiday to New York and Las Vegas for the Ultimate USA City Break

A two-centre holiday to America will give you the opportunity to experience the different cultures that can be found in the great cities of this vast country. The choice of destinations is, of course, huge - but there are some that really stand out. Book a holiday to New York and Las Vegas and you can look forward to spending seven days enjoying two unique ways of life, as well as famous landmarks and great entertainment.

There is so much to do in the two cities that it is a good idea to have some kind of itinerary in mind before you set off. This will allow you to pack as much as possible into your twin USA city break and ensure you don't run out of time to visit attractions you want to see. It is also sensible to book tickets for any popular shows you wish to take in during your getaway in advance.

Begin your ultimate USA city break with a little sightseeing in the Big Apple. There is lots to see among Manhattan's skyscrapers and if you are a fan of comics and films, you may just recognise a lot of it. The Superhero Tour of New York is a fun way to explore the city and your imagination is sure to work overtime as you visit the Green Goblin's mansion, the Fantastic Four's Baxter Building and the United Nations headquarters that was once the scene of a battle between Batman and his evil enemies. Unfortunately, you won't actually gain any superpowers, so you will have to make do with walking or taxis as you head off for an evening sampling the New York nightlife.

For a more conventional sightseeing trip, buy a CityPass to gain a 49 per cent discount on entry to six major attractions. It is possible to pack a lot into just a few hours in New York, so you can take in the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Empire State Building in a single day. After enjoying that mix of history, iconic architecture and classic art, try an evening at a restaurant in Little Italy or Chinatown.

Spend the third day of your trip experiencing two of the classic ingredients of New York holidays - shopping and a show. For the latest fashions from top designers, trips to Bloomingdale's and Macy's are in order, but don't forget to hunt for bargains in the city's many independent stores. After ditching your bags at the hotel, head off for an evening on Broadway. The variety of productions is huge, but if you hope to see one of the top musicals, you will need to book tickets in advance.

Before leaving New York for Las Vegas, you should spend the fourth day of your holiday exploring Central Park. Located in the heart of Manhattan, the park boasts 843 acres of greenery, woods and lakes that are completely out of keeping with the busy city. You can spend hours relaxing in the idyllic surroundings and spotting the many sculptures.

On arrival in Las Vegas, you will notice straight away that it is a very different type of city from New York - and not just because it is located in the middle of the Nevada desert. Begin your stay here by taking a tour of The Strip and amazing sights like the recreation of the Giant Sphinx of Giza, the world's largest big top and a manmade volcano. Then try an evening at one of the lavish casinos - even if you don't want to risk your cash, you are sure to love the tense atmosphere as gamblers try to win millions.

Las Vegas is ideally situated for seeing some of the USA's best known natural attractions, such as the Grand Canyon. Taking a helicopter flight over the vast scar on the Arizona landscape is guaranteed to be an experience that lives long in the memory. And to make it even more special, why not take a rafting trip down the River Colorado to see the remarkable landscape close up?

Spend the final day of your break enjoying a couple of attractions unique to Sin City. The Las Vegas Mob Experience is a superb interactive exhibition that will allow you to live out your gangster fantasies, while learning all about the city's links with the Mafia. And no trip to Vegas would be complete without taking in an extravagant show - try Cirque du Soleil's Criss Angel Believe at The Luxor for a type of entertainment you certainly won't have seen before.

For the perfect USA city break or holiday to America, get in touch with Bon Voyage. We specialise in bespoke getaways and can help put together your dream New York holidays or a holiday to New York and Las Vegas.

Landscape Architecture In Thailand

Landscape architecture plays an important role in the expansion of all contemporary cities. The principles of landscape architecture are used in order to create open 'breathing spaces' so the city has some fresh air and does not look cluttered. Landscape architecture is taught in Thailand and is acknowledged as a profession offering professional qualifications at degree status.

If someone wants to work as a landscape architect in Thailand, then he or she has to have a bachelor's degree in landscape design from one of the two universities offering the course. Chulalongkorn University and Thammasart University turn out about 100 post graduates between them in landscape architecture every year.

Bangkok is home to most of Thailand's landscape architectural businesses. There are about thirty substantial firms and around eighty freelance landscape architects. Many of the post graduates want to continue their study or gain more experience abroad before settling down to work in Thailand. In order to work as a landscape architect in Thailand, one needs to obtain a license from Thailand's official Association of Architects.

The Thai Association of Architects plays an vital function in maintaining standards of landscape architecture. The Thai government, both local and national, make use of landscape architects to help with the design of such projects as highway development, inner city reconstruction and airport design. On a more understandable level, landscape architects are involved with the Royal Flora Expo in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand.

The Association of Architects in Thailand is a private organization but it works hand in glove with the Ministry of the Interior. It helps the government regulate four professions which can have an effect on the environment and one of these is the profession of landscape architecture. However, landscape design does not make up 25% of the Association's concerns. At 15% of the association's workload, it is fair to imagine that landscape design is under represented in Thailand.

The Association of Architects issues licenses to applicants based on the results of three concepts. These concepts are education, experience and examination. The principle of education is satisfied by gaining a BA in landscape architecture. Then the applicant has to provide evidence of work experience and finally, the association has its own examinations which the landscape architect also has to succeed in.

Landscape design is still in its infancy in Thailand. That is to say that, landscape architecture has merely recently started being applied to public developments. There have been landscape gardeners working on the gardens and palaces of rich Thais for centuries, just like in every other country with a more affluent ruling class.

Two of Thailand's most well-known landscape architects are Somwang Leevanjikul and Chanvudhi Varavam, both of whom have been used in substantial government projects in Thailand utilizing their skills in landscape architecture to create Thailand's cities and countryside a better looking place to be.

Owen Jones, the author of this article, writes on a number of topics, but is now involved with Loy Krathong. Read the new book by Owen Jones on Pattaya, Thailand - Behind The Smile.

Grenoble and Orleans: Two French Cities Worth Visiting

About an hour and a half south of Paris lies the scenic French town of Orleans. Located on the Loire River, Orleans plays host to five interesting museums, including Joan of Arc's house and a Natural Sciences Museum. There are eight separate beautiful parks located throughout the city, all of which are perfect for a romantic French picnic. The beautiful river was once a busy trading route, however now only large ships are able to make it as far as Nantes. Many of the boats that used to journey on the river are on display for the enjoyment of locals and visitors alike.

From Orleans, take your rental car over to quaint French cities like Montargis or Glen to stay in any of the local bed and breakfasts that are available. Maybe you will want to head over to Blois to visit the world famous Chateau de Blois, and walk on the winding pathways throughout the hilly city. Or head a little further west to Tours for some of the finest wines in the country and medieval sight seeing. Whatever your interests may be, Orleans will provide you with the access you need to get to larger cities or small towns, but is also filled with enough culture of it's own to keep you feeling immersed.

Known as the capital of the French Alps, Grenoble is one of France's most beautiful cities. Home to the 1968 Winter Olympics, athletes from all over the world still train here. Home to over 20 ski stations, Grenoble is a popular location year round for all kinds of people. The mountainous landscape is also filled with many abandoned mills and factories, attracting skiers of all kinds, day hikers, and photography buffs. Whatever your reason for coming here, you won't want to leave without getting your fill of outdoor adventure!

Take a car rental in Grenoble to many of the ski areas located outside the city for some of the world's best skiing! After you've had your share of the area, you could head north to visit beautiful Lake Geneva, in Switzerland, or even travel east and see Italy with your rental car in Grenoble. Wherever you're off to, a car will give you the freedom you need to see more of France on your next European vacation!

Car rentals in Grenoble or Car Rentals in Orleans may be the best way for you to get around France while on your next vacation. It's always a good idea to explore your options before you travel to Europe. Safe travels!.

Article written by Hans Ericsson of Auto Europe
Please do not copy or reproduce without the above text and links.

Top 5 Destinations That MUST Be in Your Bucket List to Travel in 2015

"The best way to travel to a destination is; do not decide any particular location, simply pack your bag, and leave... And see where the road takes you!" - Anonymous

Well, this, indeed, sounds a pretty exciting idea to travel the world; however, some planning before starting your journey is always good and helpful. Traveling is one of the most jubilant way to live life (regular travelers would know it!), and it is of utmost importance that you take out time for frequent expeditions. It is understood that, when it comes to deciding a destination to travel, one does face a series of conundrums; "which city?", "what'll be the expenses?", "how long can I stay?", "is it the best time to visit?" and so on.

Well, that is exactly what I have tried to do in this article. Here is a list of destinations for you to choose from, to start your sojourn. These 5 destinations are some of the most scintillating and enthralling tourist spots in the world, and must feature in your bucket list; have a look.

India

Welcome to the largest democracy in the world. India is a home to a myriad of religions and a perfect blend of modern-traditional lifestyle. Grant Duff, a renowned British historian of India, once said that, "Many of the advances in science that we consider today to have been made in Europe were in fact made in India centuries ago"; that says a lot about this majestic country.

When in India, you don't have to think about the activities to get indulge in, or places to see. While the northern part welcomes you with snow-capped mountains of the great Himalayas and a lifestyle submerged in Buddhism (Leh & Laddakh), the southern part puts you elegantly in the arms of pure nature's beauty. And, while, the endless deserts of western zone will fascinate you instead of freaking you out, the vibrant art culture of the eastern states will bind you to its roots. India is a country that can frustrate you to the core, and mesmerize your senses as well. Many travelers, over the years, have been travelling to this country, and every visit is a new experience for them.

The best time to visit: Now, this is a tricky one! India, basically, is divided in three climatic conditions; Hot (March-July), Wet (August-October), and Cold (November-February). Even these conditions vary as you go from North to South, and, thus, traveling time depends on which state you are planning to visit. However, for a better travel experience, it is advised to visit India during its coldest months.

Best things to do: India and its people are immersed in the celebration all year round. With an amalgamation of myriad of cultural and traditional pillars, India and its people are immersed in celebrations no matter which month of the year you visit. Apart from enjoying the festivity, one can indulge in a volunteer program as well. Being a developing country, there are enormous opportunities for you to be a part of the team, which endeavors to lift the living conditions of weaker society.

Australia

There are countries in this world, which are known for some or the other uniqueness of theirs. It can be their beaches, mountains, architectures, culture, and so on. And then there is a country which comes out firm and strong, whose uniqueness and specialty is having, not one, but many specialties; Australia mate! Be it the endearingly cute koalas and kangaroos or the sports fraternity that has removed the word "failure" from their dictionary; Australia is as unique, as lively its people are.

It is a surprise only that a nation, which shows up as a minuscule figure in front of its neighboring Asian countries, yet has so much to admire. The country is burgeoning with some of the best architectural work and natural formations; The Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Uluru Rock, and the UNICEF certified heritage site of The Great Barrier Reef, is just to make a mention. The Australian lifestyle is similar to that of the western countries, while the human population and a significant part of the wildlife lives pretty much together.

The best time to visit: While April to September witness the winters in Australia, the temperature starts gaining up by mid of October and reaches to a pretty hot level by December, which remains like that till mid of March month. So, if you are a beach lover and have plans to gulp down the Fosters' bottle while surfing, summers are the best time for you to visit, although, the majority of tourist footfall happens during the winter season, as it treats you lightly, while you enjoy your sojourn.

Best things to do: Australia is a country, full of sports enthusiast. A game of cricket is something no Aussie would want to miss, while enjoying their mug of beer and cheering for their mates! If your visit happens to clash with a tournament season, get a ticket and enjoy the Australian way. Also, needless to say that The Great Barrier Reef is a place you simply can't give a miss. Australia, gives you no window to get bored or sit idle.

Spain

Vibrant culture, jubilant people, and uber cool lifestyle; this sums up the region of Spain for you. This European nation may come across to you as a stereotypical developing nation, but has all the ingredients to surprise you to the fullest. More than anything, the country is known and reputed for its lively and upbeat lifestyle and warm-welcoming people. It is interesting to know that, not only does Spain stands second with the most number of UNESCO certified heritage sites, it also takes the first position with the most number of world heritage cities in the world.

While Madrid, the capital city, has a reputation of being a place for amazing night-life and flattering cuisines, Barcelona, Valencia and Cadiz are some of the other cities that have some of the most beautiful and finely constructed buildings.

The best time to go: Spring time in Spain is the best time to explore this colorful nation. The season peaks up in April and goes up till the month of October. And while summers can be a good time as well, especially for beach lovers, it can get a bit more crowded than you would expect. Those who want to enjoy their space in peace and experience the tranquility, must visit during the winters and avoid all the crazy rush.

Best things to do: While the iconic bull fight of Spain is a definite visit, you can indulge in one of world's craziest and intriguing festivals celebrated in Spain, La Tomatina. Conducted on the last Wednesday of every August in the beautiful city of Valencia, this can be your chance to do something which you might have always wanted to do when you were a kid, throw rotten tomatoes on hundreds other; and be ready to get hit too!

Singapore

Unarguably, one of the most visited tourist nation in the world, Singapore has more than aplenty reasons for you to be there, beautiful city life and magnificent landscapes surrounding the city, is just one of the many. The level and expectation of fun appreciates to an entirely new level when the destination is an island nation and has one of the most enthralling and vibrant archipelagos in the world. Sentosa, the most popular island resort in Singapore, is one place you would never forget your entire life. With a tank full of attraction points; including, two huge golf courses, 14 luxury hotels, a tenacious fort (Siloso), a 2kms long sheltered beach and a theme park of Universal Studios; the island resort has got everything under one roof for you.

The influence of Chinese, Indian, Malaysian and Indonesian culture in Singapore has its results in local food preparations and dishes as well. One can experience the 'out of the world' taste from a hot bowl of Bak Kut The (pork ribs soup) even from a small roadside food stall, that's the level of consistency in taste throughout. The simplest of the dishes, such as a plate of dim sums, will also make you go omnomnom!!!! With so many flea markets, wet markets, malls and local street vendors selling a variety of local artistry and souvenir products, one can burgeon their baggage with shopping items. The Singapore Flyer, a 165 meter tall observational wheel, with 28 air-conditioned capsules, is one of the main tourist attractions in Singapore. Considered to be the answer to The London Eye, the flyer is a great way to see the beautiful island. The robustness of the wildlife, residing in this island nation, reflects from the choice of their national animal, viz., Lion. With over a thousand different species of birds, insects and mammals, Singapore is a walk of heaven for wildlife enthusiasts.

The best time to go: Being an archipelago, the weather in Singapore is mainly warm and humid, which remains constant throughout the year. So, taking the weather into consideration, there is no time boundation to visit Singapore. However, November to early March can be a little cooler than the other months of the year, so that can be a choice. Also, to avoid the heavy tourist traffic and have some space for you, June to October is the perfect time to make a sojourn in Singapore.

Best Things to do: While the capital city of Singapore is a paradise world for any traveler, which can leave an impression for the lifetime, there is no dearth of activities to do in any of the cities or islands of this country. You can spend some family fun time at the Singapore Zoo, or the Jurong Bird Park, while the Singapore Flyer will provide a binocular view of the city. The Sentosa Island is a major attraction point as well.

Philippines

"It's more fun in the Philippines"; this overwhelming tagline by the tourism department of the Philippines is very much justified with an amalgamation of over 7000 startling islands, covered with plush green tropical rainforest and gigantic volcanoes, and many more reasons. This South-East Asian country is one of the places that have the capability of mesmerizing your senses and take control over you; this archipelago simply redefines the term 'Natural Beauty', and takes it to another level altogether.

The food, the traditions, the flora & fauna, the landscapes & architectures, and especially the beaches; everything about the Philippines is worth experiencing and enjoying. With Pacific waters surrounded from all sides, every island in the Philippines has a number of scintillating beaches to choose from. Go to Palawan Island and you have the secret beach and the El Nido beach to mesmerize your wits, at Aklan you have the Boracay beach with crystal clear water and the white sandy shore. It is said that, when in the Philippines you don't only need to have a strong appetite, but also stringent taste buds to handle the level of tang created due to heavy load of ingredients used in preparing the dishes. With soy sauce, vinegar, pork, rice, and fish sauce being a common participant in most of the signature cuisines, the kitchens of the Philippines are known to serve some extraordinary and innovative platters. Adobo, Sisig, Pork Barbecue, and the very famous street food Balut (talk about extraordinary) are some of the mouthwatering delicacies.

The best time to go: For the best of your travel experience in the Philippines, December to February is just the perfect gap to visit this island country. The months of March to May can be pretty hot and humid, while the heavy monsoon hits the region by July that goes up till November month.

Best things to do: Explore the gigantic and magnificent volcanoes, some of which are active till date. The Mayon Volcano, located on the Luzon Island, is considered to be the most active stratovolcano present in the Philippines; it is fondly known as the 'Perfect One', because of its perfect conical shape. The Banaue Rice Terraces and The Chocolate Hills are among the many marvelously maintained landscapes in the Philippines.

It is often said that, the best way to make your travel to a destination a memorable one is by knowing the culture and lifestyle of the natives of that country. This can happen only when you get to interact with them on a daily basis and have a close connection. Volunteering is one of the best ways to accomplish this. While touring a country, getting indulged in a volunteer work gives a sort of a meaning to your sojourn, which not only makes it a memorable one for you, but also helps in alienating the sufferings of the receivers. Volunteering Solutions provides a wide range of international volunteer work for those who are looking for an opportunity to make a difference in the society. For more information on volunteering abroad and other FAQs visit http://www.volunteeringsolutions.com/

Five Of America's Most Overlooked Cities

Think of the USA and what do you see? Perhaps the gleaming towers of Manhattan, the luxurious homes of Hollywood or a stretch of palm beaches above a stunning Florida beach.

But there is much more to this vast nation than these established locations. America offers some of the world's most breathtaking natural scenery, a limitless array of culture and a surprisingly diverse variety of natural and man-made monuments.

Here we explore the top five most overlooked US cities, all of which emit a distinctive, vibrant charm that many oversees visitors, and indeed Americans, have yet to discover.

• Portland, Oregon

Greener than LA, more relaxed than the Big Apple, Portland's pleasant climate rewards it with a lush, vivid landscape that's ideal for growing roses. Indeed, the city is colloquially known as Rose City and is also regarded as one of the most eco-friendly built-up locations on Earth.

Portland's attractiveness can be witnessed in varied ways, from the architectural clout of the Hawthorne Bridge over the Willamette River to the Portland Art Museum, a leading US institution with 42,000 exhibits and an impressive Native American art centre.

• Cincinnati, Ohio

Lots don't realise that this exciting Ohio city hosts some of the world's finest Italianate architecture. Over-the-Rhine, a cultural hub north of downtown, was once known as the 'Paris of America' and is home to a selection of awe-inspiring architectural sites, including the luxury Cincinnatian Hotel, the Music Hall and the Shillito department outlet.

Cincinnati was also a hotspot for German immigration towards the end of the 19th century. The Over-the-Rhine district is included on the United States' Register of Historic Places - similar neighbourhoods are found in New York, Munich and Vienna.

• Charleston, South Carolina

Flamboyant homes, a sub-tropical climate and a collection of impeccably-clean sandy beaches make Charleston a fantastic and unspoiled holiday destination. The city boasts an important colonial past as well as a fast-growing travel industry, trendy hotels, award-winning eateries and popular shopping malls.

AmercianStyle Magazine named Charleston one of America's top 25 arts destinations; a recognition exemplified by its large number of museums, including Charleston Museum, America's oldest. The Powder Magazine, a gunpowder museum, opened in 1713, while the Exchange and Provost, a dungeon from 1767, once housed signers of the Declaration of Independence.

• Sacramento, California

California travel guides will place an emphasis on Los Angeles and San Francisco, but Sacramento is an important national cultural centre and is therefore not completely overlooked. The California State Railroad Museum is the US's biggest railroad museum, while the Crocker Art Museum, one of the first art museums stateside, features a stunning new 129,791 sq ft addition.

The beautiful California Delta, a large 1,000-mile waterway to the south of the city, offers a taste of authentic California and is the perfect attraction for a hot summer's day.

• Salt Lake City, Utah

Stunning mountainscapes offer the perfect background to Utah's thriving state capital. The Family History Library, the largest genealogical information centre in the world and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, a diverse and internationally renowned cultural venue, are just two examples of its impressive cultural highlights.

Many visitors travel to Salt Lake City to discover its revered natural attractions close by. From the Big Cottonwood Canyon, a beautiful, lush wilderness, to the Great Salt Lake, a natural phenomenon with a lunar quality, Salt Lake City is the ideal gateway from where to roam many of the US's grandest landscapes.

Stanfords is the UK's leading specialist retailer of maps and travel guides. A USA travel specialist, we stock more titles and travel accessories than any other travel store in the world.

Tourism in Germany

Dinkelsbuhl-Sinbronn, Germany

City description and overview:

Dinkelsbuhl-Sinbronn is located in the district of Dinkelsbuhl, Asbanc, Middle Franconia. The city was also known as the Siebenbronn and Siebenbrunnen. Located in the heart of Germany, the city boasts of a beautiful landscape, which is most suitable for tourists looking for hiking and trekking holiday destinations. The place also boasts of many historical places of interest like the Evangelical Lutheran Church of St. Peter and the former nuclear north tower. The place also has a lot of other activities of interest for all the tourists. It has a very well-maintained and high-tech sports center which has extremely good facilities for all sports. The sports club is known as the Sinbron EV. The city also has an active Horticultural Society for all horticulture enthusiasts' tourists. The city also boasts of an aero-club which operates around 700 mts away from the main city. The Aero Club EV holds many adventure sports like parachuting, paragliding and micro lights training. The city also holds an open-air festival known as the Summer Breeze festival.

Weather and best time to travel:

Best time to travel to this part of Germany would be between February to April and from August to October. The months of spring and fall are the best time to enjoy the beauty of this place. The picturesque landscape is at its best during these months. One can also enjoy the open-air festival held every year in the month of August along with the wonderful natural walking treks and hiking destinations.

Erbach, Germany

City description and overview:

Erbach is located in the Odenwaldkrejs district, Hesse, Germany. It is a district seat which is located on the borders of the north of Michelstadt and from the east of Kirchzell. The city boasts of a scenic beauty that can mesmerize anybody to everybody. The city also boasts of many historical places of interests such as the castle of the Erbach Counts and the antique collections in the museum of the castle of Count Franz. The Erbach German Ivory Museum or the Deutsches Elfenbeinmuseum Erbach is the most unique museum in Europe since it exhibits the exclusive and the best ivory works of all time. The town also has a very well-established meadow market known as the Erbacher Wiesenmarkt. This market has a very well holds many horse-racing and other sports. The town also boasts of a very active and fun-filled nightlife along with many restro-bars and other such places for leisure activities. Some very famous people like Jessica Shwarz a famous actress and Serap Cileli a world renowned author.

Weather and best time to travel:

The best weather and time to visit this part of Germany is between November to March and from April to October. The winter season and the autumn season are the best weather to visit Erbach as the many of the historical places and sight-seeing places close down during the other months. The picturesque beauty of the nature can only be experienced to the fullest during these months.

Rajasthan Holiday Packages Make Your Stay at Rajasthan Worthwhile

Rajasthan is one of the most popularly visited states of India. A Rajasthan Tour is special due to its colorful cultural heritage, invincible forts, ancient monuments, palatial palaces, mouthwatering cuisine, vibrant & historical cities, exotic wildlife with rich flora & fauna, vast desert landscapes, traditional villages, religious places, colorful fairs & festivals, heritage & palace hotels. These attractions in Rajasthan make it one of the most visited tourism and holiday destinations across the world. There are many special Rajasthan Holiday packages that one can choose from to visit all the lovely places in this state.

In literal terms the meaning of Rajasthan is "the Land of Kings" and it has been one since ages. When you take any of the Rajasthan packages and travel in this beautiful state you will come across several magnificent palaces & forts of erstwhile rulers of the state. The rich cultural heritage of the state is still intact.

Even today the travelers on Rajasthan Tour can enjoy the rich culture & traditions and royal grandeur. Rajasthan represents the spirit of India perfectly in terms of tradition, customs, hospitality, culture and more.

The entire landscape of Rajasthan is worth exploring. The Rajasthan Packages cover some of the most beautiful and exotic places of this beautiful state of India.

The Pink City or Jaipur has lots to offer to tourists from all over the world such as Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Amber Fort Palace, Museum, Nahargarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Jantar Mantar, Jal Mahal, Government Central Museum, Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh and Albert Hall. The other famous destination in the Rajasthan Holiday Packages is Udaipur and it has some of the most beautiful lakes like the Fateh Sagar Lake, Lake Picchola. The other places to visit in this city are City palace, Jag Mandir and it has the world famous Oberoi Udaivilas and Taj Lake Palace.

Jaisalmer or the Golden City of India is also a part of the itinerary on the Rajasthan Tour. It has some of the most beautiful Jain temples in India, which have very intricate sculptures. The tourist attractions of Jaisalmer include the Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon-ki-Haveli, Nathmalji-ki-Haveli, Gadsisar Lake and the Laxminath temple.

You can choose from any of the Rajasthan holiday packages and include other places such as Jodhpur where you can see the Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jaswant Thada, Maha Mandir, Osiyan Temple and the Government Museum as well as the only hill station of Rajasthan Mt Abu. It is a beautiful city with waterfalls, rivers, evergreen forests and lakes. The other attractions in this beautiful city are the Achalgarh fort, Dilwara Temples, Nakki Lake.

Author is an associate editor for Holidays Packages India. Get all possible information about Rajasthan Holiday Packages and Rajasthan Tour. We also provide information about online hotel reservation, Flights Booking and Holiday Packages in India.

Top 7 Places to Visit in North East India

ASSAM - Assam means a Peerless land owing its derivation from a Sanskrit word 'ASOMA'. It is a wonderful place where nature itself has painted the vibrant landscapes, woods, hillocks, flora and fauna, brooks and steams and above all the affectionate people. The state of Assam is crafted with special care by nature. This wonderful natural place is a very famous traveler's destination of India. It is a wonderful place in terms of civilization and tradition therefore it makes an amazing experience for travelers and tourists who visit this place.

MANIPUR - Manipur is one of those places on earth which have a majestic charm. This city is not a very big tourist spot but when you visit this place you feel elated and relaxed. Manipur charms you with its serenity and simplicity. If you are looking for relaxation Manipur is a great option.

NAGALAND - The state of Nagaland is a wonderful and charming place in India famous for the Headhunting Naga Tribes. Naga Tribes are one of most interesting tribes in the world. Not just that in Naga City you get to experience the panorama of nature, lavish blossoms and beautiful rivers making their way through rugged terrains.

MEGHALAYA - Meghalaya is a beautiful place to travel which used to be a part of Assam. Meghalaya is one of the wettest places on this planet all time surrounded by clouds. There are abundant natural attractions in Meghalaya which include peaks, caves, waterfalls, lakes and ancient living root bridges.

MIZORAM - Mizoram is also one of the wonderful places of North - East India with its stunning landscape, dense bamboo jungles, beautiful rivers and lush green paddy fields. Mizoram is a great place to travel for nature lovers.

TRIPURA - The second smallest state in India which is almost surrounded by Bangladesh is known for the largest rock cut images and stone idols of the Great Lord Shiva. This heavily forested land is also known for its wide variety of Bamboo products and Handloom Weaving. The lake place of Neermahal which was constructed in 1930 as a summer resort by late Maharaja Birbikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur is the star attraction of Tripura.

SIKKIM - The Himalayan state of Sikkim which is bordered by China, Bhutan and Nepal was recognized as a part of North - East India in the 1990s. In Sikkim you have many heavenly places to visit like Gangtok, Peling, Lachung etc where you can feel and enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of nature. In these places of Sikkim you can enjoy sightseeing of various waterfalls, The Himalayan Mountains, many gorgeous rivers and much more. Sikkim is one of the best travel destinations for nature lovers.

All the above mentioned places are excellent to visit in North - East part of India. These places of North - East India provide a delightful experience to travelers from all over the world. These are superb places for those who want to spend their valuable time with the nature.

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