Glasgow City Guide, Including Glasgow Hotels

Glasgow is already a top tourist destination for many travellers in Europe. If you were thinking about going on holiday to Glasgow, you may be excited to learn about Glasgow?s world famous art collections. Glasgow has some of the best shopping in Europe. There is a Lighthouse, the Gallery of Modern Art of Glasgow and plenty of museums and interesting entertainments. If you were thinking of taking a holiday in the UK, try visiting Glasgow.

Places of Interest in Glasgow

To get started, let?s look at some places of interest that are popular with Glasgow tourists.

Glasgow Cathedral - Glasgow Cathedral was built around the thirteenth and fifteenth centuries. During the Reformation period in 1560, it survived the threat of being torn down and is considered to be the only still standing authentic cathedral from that era. Its gothic style structure makes for a wonderful architectural gem to discover on your travels. It is open for viewing through almost any time of the year.

The Lighthouse - The Lighthouse in Glasgow is a national centre for architecture and design. It was once a newspaper office for the Glasgow Herald. Over 700,000 people have already visited it since it opened its door. It now contains galleries, shopping, a couple of cafes and a miniaturized version of ?Wee People?s City?.

The Gallery of Modern Art - The Gallery of Modern Art in Glasgow is one of the most popular modern art galleries in the UK. It houses contemporary artwork, most with the theme of addressing social issues. It is open nearly all year long and children are welcome. Ask for a free-guided tour.

Glasgow Tower - For a unique architectural gem, try visiting the Glasgow Tower. It is the first tower ever created that revolved full circle, and not just the top. The entire tower can circle around from the base. There are displays inside about Glasgow?s past and displays plans for future developments. From the viewing platform at the top, visitors can see out as far as forty miles.

Things to Do in Glasgow

Shopping and activities in Glasgow make for an enjoyable time while visiting the city. Check out these can?t miss features.

Merchant City Area - The area called Merchant City contains all sorts of shops from clothing to books and antiques and more. Not to mention the various restaurants and cafes to stop by for a cuppa.

Clubs in Glasgow - If you are looking for a club for dancing or meeting the locals, try some of the more popular ones. Sub Club is located on Jamaica Street. The Arches is on Argyle Street. The Garage is on Sauchiehall Street. Each one of these clubs offers up unique fun and can be easily found.

Pubs in Glasgow - For a collection of authentic United Kingdom pubs, Glasgow offers a variety of them. Looking for real ale or live music? There are a variety of pubs to fit every preference. For example, if you want a more fashionable crowd, head for Bar Soba on Mitchell Lane.

Where to Eat in Glasgow

A holiday in Glasgow isn?t complete until you have a meal at one of the more famous restaurants. Try a few of these suggestions.

Aurora Restaurant - For food fashioned after Scottish cuisine, try Aurora Glasgow Restaurant on 2 Port Dundas Place. All dishes are cooked to order, including delectable delights like roast salsify with shellfish vinaigrette or Gressingham Duck breast. Dinner may cost only ?30 per person.

16 Bryres Road - For a Brasseire menu, you will want to try out 16 Bryres Road. You won?t have any trouble finding it, though it is a small restaurant. It is a favourite for locals in Glasgow and for good reason. It was listed as one of the best restaurants in Glasgow in a number of magazines. You can find Confit lamb shoulder, grilled fillet of halibut along with prune and almond chocolate brownies with clotted cream listed on the menu.

Bluu - Bluu in Glasgow offers a European menu for its patrons. Located on 60 Trongate Albion Street, Bluu?s menu consists of ravioli with spicy pineapple salsa and delicious Iced Malteser parfait with white chocolate sauce. Bluu?s tasty meals will range from ?20 - ?40.

Hotels and Accommodation in Glasgow

After shopping and visiting museums and a nice meal, you?ll want to relax in a hotel that continues the Glasgow experience. Try these highly recommended Glasgow hotels.

Carlton George Hotel
Dreamhouse Serviced Apartments
Express by Holiday Inn Glasgow City- Riverside
Alexander Thomson
Best Western Fenwick Hotel
Glasgow City Charing Cross Premier Travel Inn
Rennie Mackintosh Hotel (Central Station)
Quality Hotel Central Glasgow
City Inn Glasgow
Ramada Glasgow City
Crowne Plaza Glasgow
Victorian House
Charing Cross House
McLays Guest House
Hampton Court Hotel
Millennium Hotel Glasgow
Buchanan Hotel
Atlantic Hotel
Townhouse Hotel
Argyll Hotel
Manor Park Hotel
The Belhaven Hotel
Albion Hotel
Erskine Bridge Hotel
Swallow Hotel Glasgow
Brunswick Merchant City Hotel
Merchant lodge Hotel
Busby Hotel
Dean Park Hotel
The Normandy Hotel
Glynhill Hotel and Leisure Club
Devoncove Hotel Glasgow
Express By Holiday Inn Glasgow Airport
Ambassador Hotel
Menzies Glasgow Hotel
Tulip Inn Glasgow
Malmaison Glasgow
Corus hotel Glasgow
Campanile Hotel Glasgow
Thistle Glasgow
The Spires Serviced Suites
Novotel Glasgow Centre
Jurys Glasgow Hotel
Jurys Inn Glasgow
Radisson SAS Hotel Glasgow
Fraser Suites Glasgow
Best Western Ewington Hotel
Dreamhouse City Centre
Artto Hotel
The A-List Apartments, Glasgow
Euro Hostel Ltd
Crowwood House Hotel
City Serviced Apartments and Lodges
Rennie Mackintosh City Hotel
City Apartments
Express by Holiday Inn Glasgow Theatreland
Holiday Inn Glasgow Theatreland
City Apartments Glasgow

Entertainment in Glasgow

There is no lack of entertainment for visitors to Glasgow. Check out these can?t miss events.

IMAX? Theatre - Located on 50 Pacific Quay in the Glasgow Science Centre, IMAX? Theatre offers entertainment for the entire family. Watch films that explore the world around you. With a huge screen and top of the line technology, the IMAX? theatre is open nearly all year.

The King?s Theatre - Located on Bath Street in Glasgow, the King?s Theatre opened in 1904. With its most clever design, the theatre plays host to professional and amateur play alike. Find musicals and pantomime and drama performances by visiting the King?s theatre.

Glasgow plays host to thousands of visitors on holiday each and every year. Come join in the fun, food and flair that can be found in Glasgow.

Biography Name: Maria Williams Website: Sleep UK Biography: Maria writes for Sleep UK - providers of hotels in glasgow.

Rome hotels: where to stay in Rome.

Rome's hotels since the liberalization of the accommodations in Italy are much more and in better shape than they'have been in years; dozens upon dozens of these properties have undergone recently deep renovations.
On the other side the huge quantity of tourism the city has experienced in the last couple of years, finding a good hotel room at any time of the year is harder than ever.
So, before traveling Italy, make the reservations as far ahead as possible.
The hotels in Rome are among the most luxurious in Europe, but, when reviewing the best of the upscale hotels, try always to have a good selection of moderately priced hotels, where you can find confortable, charming lodgings with private bathrooms. Rome has inexpensive choices and can offer more in services and facilities than you might expect from the prices.
Furthermore, the italian government controls the prices of its hotels, designating a minimum and a maximum rate. The difference between the two might depend on the season, the location of the room and even its size.
Government ratings do not depend on sensitivity of decoration or frescoed ceilings, but they are based on facilities, such as elevators and the like. Many of the finest hotels in Rome have a lower rating because they serve only breakfast.
Hotels usually require you to check out on the day of departure between 10 am and noon: later than this, you run the risk of being charged for a further night. As to check-in times, there are no hard and fast rules, but if you are going to arrive late in the dat, it's probably best to mention this when you book a room.
Nearly all hotels in Rome are heated in the cooler months, but not all are airconditioned in summer, which can be vitally important during July and August.

Malta Hotels Buzzed By Low Cost Jets

With Malta visitor numbers static in recent years and facing new competiton from former Eastern Bloc countries offering cheap holidays, the recent announcement by the Maltese government that negotiations were at an advanced stage with two low cost airlines has sparked hopes that the island will see a rise in tourists, much to the relief of some in the tourist industry worried about the future of Malta as a holiday destination.

Even before the new carriers to the island land the existing airlines have been offering return flights at prices seemingly much lower than in the past to try and hold on to their share of the market.

According to one local travel guide the airline negotiations have been tempered with the need for the island's government to see that the national carrier, Air Malta, isn't damaged as it is one of Malta's major employers.

Traditionally the UK has been Malta's biggest market for incoming tourists, often making up over half of the island's visitors in any given year, but some on the island see even this market as under threat. And property buyers from the UK have accounted for seventy per cent of Malta property sales to overseas buyers in recent years, settling in Valletta, Sliema, St Paul's, Mellieha, St Julian's and Qawra.

A good number of UK visitors and property buyers for Malta in recent years have been ex-forces who served for the British during WW2 when Malta held out against Hitler's Luftwaffe, and then in peacetime through to 1979 when the last of the British military left the island, and have returned for holidays.

But with the inevitability of this market declining a new breed of Malta's holiday and hotel entrepreneurs see Malta's future as less dependent on the UK tourist, and being more cosmopolitan in her outlook.

Declining Market and New Opportunities

Malta property companies say they have noticed more buyers making enquiries from other countries over the last year. In particular they say they have been receiving enquiries from France, Italy and Germany.

The UK remains the foundation for overseas property buyers considering buying property in Malta, but the overall percentage is reducing as more and more people in mainland Europe have visited Malta, and liked it so much they want to either move to the island full time or buy a holiday home.

The arrival of low cost flights to Malta though could reignite British interest as three and four day breaks a few times a year becomes financially viable. If the airlines fly to destinations in Europe too the number of buyers for Malta property could rise in the immediate and medium term.

For Malta's tourist industry three and four day visitors in increased numbers will be a welcome boost. There is discussion on the island about extending club's opening hours beyond the current 4am.

Clubbers in the UK are used to 6am closing, and might be deterred from making a weekend trip with a three hour flight only to find shorter hours available for partying.

There are new opportunities for Malta, and it's for the island to decide whether to embrace them and gain a new generation of visitors - or ignore them and lose an asset for the economy.

Malta has a lot to offer the visitor apart from being a Mediterranean holiday island. Malta has a rich culture and history, and can easily appeal to all generations from toddlers to pensioners. More Italians and other nationalities are discovering Malta as a destination. Malta will become more cosmopolitan. And while some of the older more conservative residents are likely to be against a younger and more diverse mix of visitors from what they have been used to and see change as something to be afraid of, we believe the island will embrace the more cosmopolitan feel, while retaining the features that make Malta a unique visit among her Mediterranean island neighbours.

For holidays in for Malta , the weather, a map, real estate and property, car hire, villa holiday, flights, hotels in Malta including the Qawra Palace, Palm Court and others http://www.yourmalta.com

Yellowstone Hotels

There is a wide variety of lodging options available at Yellowstone National Park to suit all kinds of budgets.

The in-park lodging is operated by Xanterra Parks and Resorts. The accommodation available ranges from rustic cabins to luxury suites. Cabins include the Roosevelt Lodge cabins that are right near the favorite campsite of President Theodore Roosevelt. One of the largest log structures in the world, the Old Faithful Inn, overlooks the Old Faithful Geyser. The newest lodge is the award-winning Old Faithful snow lodge. There are nine different options for in-park lodging.

There are seasonal lodgings as well. During winter, the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel offers accommodation and is accessible by automobile. It serves as the centre for winter sport activities in the park like Nordic Skiing, snowshoeing and ice-skating, and is the starting point for winter explorations of the interior of the park. The Hotel provides luxurious rooms as well as rooms that have the most basic features. In this manner it caters to a range of budgets.

For a more rustic experience as well as one that would be lighter on the pocket, the Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins provides winter accommodation as well. The cabins come in two types: the Western Cabin and the Frontier Cabin. The lodge also provides snowcoach tours to the various natural wonders of the park that are a magnificent sight during winter.

Summer lodging includes the Old Faithful Inn and other lodges and cabins as well as campsites, thus providing more options to the tourist. Summer lodging also includes the Grant Village named after President Ulysses S. Grant who signed the park into existence in 1872. The village consists of a complex of six double-storied buildings that contain 50 rooms each. It is located on the southwestern shore of the Yellowstone Lake and is 20 miles away from Old Faithful geyser. It is also located close to Grand Teton National Park.

There are a number of resorts in the areas surrounding the park as well. There are a number of resorts and hotels in cities like Jackson, Wyoming and West Yellowstone and Big Sky in Montana. These hotels and resorts provide regular guided tours and vehicles to explore the park as well as nearby regions.

It is advisable to book well in advance for your accommodation since Yellowstone is still one of the most popular vacation destinations in the country and it can become really difficult to get accommodation during the high tourist seasons. It should be noted that all lodging within the park boundaries are strict no-smoking areas.

For more information on Yellowstone National Park Lodging please visit:

Xanterra Parks and Resorts website:

http://www.travelyellowstone.com

Information on Yellowstone by communities surrounding the park:

http://www.yellowstoneparknet.com

Information on Yellowstone Lodging and tours:

http://www.yellowstonenationalpark.com

Top Las Vegas Hotels

Top Las Vegas Hotels

Prior to your trip to Las Vegas - study what the different hotels have to offer - before you make your booking! If it is your first trip - prepare to be truly 'wowed' by the imagination and the magnitude Vegas Hotels and Casinos offer!

The MGM Grand: extremely luxurious accommodation, with the Grand Tower providing Bungalow suites, Celebrity Spa suites, Glamour suites. The Grand Tower has some of the largest rooms - all have black and white marble bathrooms and huge wardrobes. The MGM Grand Casino is said to have the largest selection of slot machines out of all the casinos in town.

The Luxor: is shaped like an Egyptian pyramid and has an Egyptian theme. The elevators that go up to the hotel rooms even go up in a diagonal angle! There are also rides and attractions for children, all of which are Egyptian themed.

The Excalibur: has a medieval theme. The Excalibur has a show that portrays knights jousting, and a midway with carnival games - great if you have children with you.

Circus Circus: another great hotel if you have children. Circus has a midway with many carnival games and circus acts every hour.

Paris Hotel: this Paris-themed hotel features a half-scale replica of the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe. It boasts French restaurants, a casino, and shopping mall resembling Paris street scenes. A formal French garden contains a huge pool - so French, you'd swear you were in France!

The Golden Nugget Hotel: one of the originals - marble and mirrors - very elegant! The hotel uses 550,000 watts of sound and two million light bulbs, - to dazzle the nights- right outside the hotel.

The Flamingo: Las Vegas first casino hotel - centrally located at the famous four corners of Las Vegas Boulevard and Flamingo Road.

The Sahara: this hotel has an on-site thrill ride - guests can drive simulated race cars at the Cyber Speedway, or ride a roller coaster launched from inside the NASCAR Caf?.

The Mandalay Bay Resort: this hotel has a tropical theme with an 11-acre water complex. It has a complimentary monorail that connects the hotel to the Luxor and Excalibur hotels.

Caesars Palace: with a Roman theme - complete with the Colosseum. Caesars, considered to be the jewel of the strip, opened its doors in August 1966, and although much has changed since then, the essentials remain the same: unsurpassed service, royal surroundings and entertainment maximus.

The Bellagio: an Italian themed hotel - which brings true European elegance to Las Vegas - with glass ceilings admitting natural light; fresh flowers and trees in the Conservatory; detailed tile work; fine art on display throughout the property; luxurious rooms; fine Italian cuisines; and an exquisite shopping center.

The Mirage: timeless beauty and tropical surrounds - it has a breathtaking front desk area featuring a 20,000-gallon saltwater aquarium that houses 60 species of tropical fish.

The Monte Carlo: with Renaissance statues and cascading fountains - this hotel is a solid fusion of European refinement, American dazzle and true Vegas hospitality.

New York New York: the resort's facade is a replica of the New York skyline including the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge. The interior features faux trees and streams lining a Central Park-themed casino and a bar in the middle of Times Square, complete with neon and flashing lights.

The Ritz-Carlton: elegance and relaxation along the shore of Lake Las Vegas - an upmarket Mediterranean-style resort, featuring luxurious rooms and suites, a spectacular Italian-inspired spa and fitness center, 36 holes of championship golf, beach and lake activities and Italian gardens.

The Venetian: just like being in Venice - complete with frescos, gourmet food, canals, gondolas and strolling performers. The hotel offers spacious, beautifully appointed suites, an impressive upscale shopping center, a wide variety of gourmet restaurants and Italian-inspired eateries, attractions and more.

Hooters: a tropical-themed resort - the rooms have a Florida casual look and the casino is decorated with Hooters themed blackjack tables and slots.

The Hard Rock Hotel: one of 'the' places to be for the hottest entertainment, restaurants and nightspots - every aspect of the Hard Rock worships the altar of rock.

Gay Redmile is the webmaster of several travel sites. Although an Aussie - she has travelled extensively throughout the United States. She considers Las Vegas to be a most fascinating city - and certainly one worth visiting! For more important information, news and articles on Las Vegas visit her site at http://www.gettolasvegas.com

Birmingham City Guide, Including Birmingham Hotels

Britain?s second biggest city after London is Birmingham. Birmingham is the cultural centre of the West Midlands and offers the casual visitor an enormous range of exciting opportunities and things to do. Offering an unsurpassed range of shops and shopping centres, and literally hundreds of activities and things to do, Birmingham is the ideal tourist destination; a city that is always guaranteed to keep you occupied.

As a city, Birmingham is packed with places to visit, enabling you to get a real taste of the city?s culture. Just a few of the places include:

Birmingham Cathedral: Built in 1725, this is one of the city?s most beautiful historic buildings, complete with four Pre-Raphaelite stained-glass windows.

The Royal Air Force Museum: Treat yourself to a stunning display of aviation history and witness over seventy aircraft situated within three separate wartime hangars. You?ll see Spitfires, Hurricanes, Vulcans and more.

Cadbury?s World: One of the country?s biggest and most popular museums. You?ll find out about the history of chocolate, and how it originated in South America, as well as seeing a genuine production line. Of course, a visit isn?t complete without sampling the produce?

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery: Witness a huge variety of exhibits that range from spooky Egyptian mummies to a wooden toy collection for the kids. Treat yourself to some culture and examine the largest collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings in the world.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens: An astonishing fifteen acres of beautiful gardens are available for exploration, as well as four glasshouses containing exotic plants.

When it comes to finding something to do, you?ll find that Birmingham has it covered. Some ideal places for pursuits include:

The Ackers: If your family?s into sport, then enjoy taking part in a variety of activities including climbing, canoeing, skiing, snowboarding and more. Occupying over seventy acres and located just two miles from the city centre, The Ackers couldn?t be more convenient.

Second City Canal Cruises: Enjoy cruising down the Birmingham canals and buy gifts from the souvenir shop.

The National Sea Life Centre: Witness over sixty displays of exotic marine life, and find yourself enthralled by the undersea world. See giant turtles, reef fish and sharks too.

Newbrook Farm Experience: Visit a working farm and keep an eye out for the many rare breeds of animals that include cattle, hens, pigs, ponies and goats.

Woodgate Valley Country Park: The perfect place for walkers, with mile upon mile of tracks to explore. There?s something for the kids too, with a farm, play area and a fun pony-trekking centre.

If you?re feeling hungry after touring Birmingham, you?ll discover that Birmingham is renowned for its culinary diversity ? meaning that you?ll find the right meal, no matter what variety of food you?re looking for. Within the city, home-cooked traditional British food goes hand-in-hand with exotic cuisine from India and China, and all of Birmingham?s eateries are in easily accessible locations. Whichever end of the scale interests you ? whether it is a simple takeaway or a slap-up three-course meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant ? Birmingham has it covered. Here?s a small selection of the city?s eating-places:

City Caf? Birmingham: Service, style and ambience are on the menu at this top-rated restaurant that offers a la carte menus, a famous Sunday lunch buffer and a vegetarian garden. Enjoy a live Jazz band every Thursday evening.

Metro Bar & Grill: Free-range meats are the order of the day here, along with a comprehensive fish board that changes daily. Metro also serves a range of sandwiches and simple snack foods if you?re looking for something quick.

Peppers: Birmingham?s top-rated Indian restaurant has every kind of Indian dish imaginable, and you?ll be spoilt for choice when you see the menu. The restaurant?s ethos is value for money.
San Carlo Ristorante: Authentic Italian food is what this restaurant offers, with many of the ingredients imported directly from Italy. The chefs and the management bring real individuality to the menu.

Opus Restaurant: Seasonal and regional are the keywords for this eatery?s menu, which offers genuine British meals with the ingredients locally sourced.

When it comes to finding somewhere to stay in Birmingham, the only problem you?ll experience with Birmingham is the amount of options available ? so many, in fact, that you?ll be spoilt for choice! Short breaks and long stays are catered for in hotels and guesthouses in the city centre or on the outskirts. Further, the prices range from the immediately affordable to more expensive and luxurious rooms. If you?re looking for an alternative, then you?ll find that Birmingham has plenty of options ranging from campsites to self-catering accommodation. There are also special packages available, such as the spa break, where you?ll find yourself pampered into luxury.

When you?ve finished exploring Birmingham by day, you?ll discover that the city comes alive at night with some of the coolest pubs and nightclubs around. Whether you?re looking for a relaxing sit down and drink, or want to party away the small hours, you?ll doubtlessly discover the ideal venue. The Nightingale Club, located in the heart of the city centre, has three levels incorporating numerous bars, discos, a restaurant and a games room. Meanwhile, The Jam House is a nightclub supported by music maestro Jools Holland, and holds up to 600 people. Alternatively, Rick?s Garden Caf? & Bar in Birmingham offers you the opportunity to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine under the stars.

The above information should give you some idea of just what Birmingham has to offer as a city. There?s something to keep you occupied whatever your interest, with a whole range of different cultural activities. If you?re traditional, you?ll enjoy visiting the city?s many museums and art galleries, and learning about Birmingham?s history. If you?re part of a family, you?ll discover attractions that have proved to be popular with thousands of children while in Birmingham. Eating, shopping, seeing and doing? all four bases are covered when you come to Birmingham.

Hotels in Birmingham

Birmingham NEC/Airport Premier Travel Inn
City Inn Birmingham
Campanile Hotel - Birmingham
Copthorne Hotel Birmingham
Birmingham Great Barr Hotel
Holiday Inn Birmingham Airport
The Norfolk Hotel
Portland Hotel
Ye Olde Station Guest House Birmingham, Shustoke
Days Inn Birmingham East
Britannia Hotel Birmingham
Macdonald Burlington Hotel
Best Western The Westley Hotel
Central Guest House
Express by Holiday Inn Birmingham Castle Bromwich
Heath Lodge Hotel
Express by Holiday Inn Birmingham NEC
Novotel Birmingham Airport
Hagley Court Hotel
Apollo Hotel
Corus hotel Birmingham South
Bridge House Hotel
Fairlawns At Aldridge(Best Western)
RAMADA BIRMINGHAM (FORMERLEY DAYS HOTEL)
Express by Holiday Inn Birmingham Oldbury M5, Jct.
Novotel Birmingham Centre
Paragon Hotel
Thistle Birmingham City
Birmingham Edgbaston
Jurys Inn Birmingham
Premier Apartments Birmingham
The Edgbaston Palace Hotel

This Article may be freely copied as long as it is not modified and this resource box accompanies the article, together with working hyperlinks.

Maria Williams Website: http://www.sleepuk.com Biography: Maria writes for Sleep UK - providers of cheap uk hotels

Edinburgh City Guide, Including Edinburgh Hotels

Introduction:

Edinburgh is one of the most famous cities in the world. It is the fastest growing place on the planet and there are a lot of reasons as to why this festival city is one of the most sought-after places for tourists to visit. The city is abuzz with activities the whole year round, be it the fireworks and stranger-hugging frenzy of the world famous New Year ?Hogmanay? street party or the spell of arts shows that appear with delightful pomp during the ?Edinburgh Festival? in August.

This bohemian city is also home to one of Europe?s most dynamic and successful financial centres. For the last decade or so, Edinburgh has achieved with resounding success the status as one of the leading centres in the world for finance, education and business. It is second only to London as the most important financial centre in Britain. Edinburgh has four universities. The oldest, the University of Edinburgh, was established in 1583. The city of Edinburgh epitomises a land that appreciates culture, history, heritage, beauty and, of course, life. Tourists love to flock to the city in the summer for the period between July and September. They would simply refuse to leave Edinburgh during the world famous Edinburgh International Festival, when the city is showered with exciting cultural activity.

Places of interest:

Edinburgh castle: Every tourist worth his or her salt would essentially visit the famous Edinburgh castle, which is easily the most famous tourist attraction in the city. It was built on the core of an extinct volcano. Edinburgh Castle presently houses the Stone of Destiny, Mons Meg (massive 15th-century cannon) Scottish Crown Jewels, and the army headquarters of the Scottish Division. The view from the fortification provides a marvellous view of the city.

National Gallery of Scotland ? This world famous gallery houses the best art work, paintings and sculpture dating from the Renaissance to the 19th century. The works include craftsmanship of legends like Van Dyck, Tiepolo, Pisarro, Monet, C?zanne, Botticelli and Titian. You can also visit the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, located nearby.

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art: This gallery was inaugurated in 1960 and then relocated to a new location which is presently called the William Burn building, west of the city centre, in 1984. The gallery has paintings by 20th century masters like Lucien Freud and Adrian Wiszniewski. Also worth visiting is the Dean Gallery which has a large collection of works by sculptor Eduardo Palazzo and Picasso.

Our Dynamic Earth: This is one exciting venture for the tourists as well as the natives alike. You can travel back in time with the help of special effects and state of the art technology and see how the earth evolved, and you could witness volcanic eruptions, tropical rainforest etc. A visit to the Dynamic Earth would last for 90 minutes.

Things to do:

Public Transport: There is a transport system called Traveline which provides information on all bus, coach and train routes within the city. People largely use the bus services in the city. The bus service flows fairly freely 0600-2400, after which the night bus service comes into operation.

The taxis are black hackney cabs and are a convenient mode of transport after the buses. Rates are expensive at about ?1.80 per kilometre (?2.30 per mile). A tip of 10% is also usual given to the cabbie. The city wears a congested look during the peak hours, so the visitors are advised to walk, cycle or utilize the public transport.

Eating: The restaurants could be divided into five types: Gastronomic, Business, Trendy, Budget and Personal Recommendations. The restaurants are listed alphabetically within these different categories, which serve as guidelines for the tourist or the visitor of the restaurant to know the kind of food and prices he would be offered. The Restaurant prices generally comprise of VAT, which is presently 17.5%, although, they, do not include a tip or service charge.

Shopping: Edinburgh has the best that has to be with relation to shopping ? department stores, friendly little boutiques, the traditional, the upmarket, the nostalgic and the unexpected. The main shopping area in Edinburgh is Princes Street, an architectural wonder of chain stores, department stores and shopping establishments. Filled with hustle-bustle of activity a certain section of people would prefer the calmer George Street which though expensive, caters to an exclusive crowd.

Nightlife: Nightlife is abuzz in various areas of the city George Street in the New Town, the High Street area of the Old Town, the university sector and the Grassmarket are some of the popular haunts. Broughton Street is filled with a ?mixed? clientele, while the seaside quarter of Leith is a favourite with the youthful crowd.

Events: There is no need to mention about Edinburgh being the heart of Scottish culture, during the annual Edinburgh International Festival. Come August, and the world has its eyes directed towards the city. The DanceBase and the Royal Lyceum Theatre Company is famous for plays, dances and other theatrical events.

Food & Drink:

The Atrium: This is famous for sophisticated and tastiest of Scottish cuisine with a French flavour. The honey roasted quail with stronoway black pudding is quite a favourite here.

Le Caf? St.Honore: you get the tastiest traditional French food here. The ?apr?s-cinq? fixed menu, served between 1700 and 1845, is of good value with dishes which include venison wild berries and mushrooms.

The Witchery by the Castle: Situated in a medieval building next to the castle, you can relieve the opulence of dining in a castle with an awesome ambience with luxurious patterns and fanlight windows to name a few. You can feed among the Aberdeen Angus beef and tempting sea-food among the other culinary delights.

Britannia Spice: This has an Asian flavour to its dishes. Situated in Leith, this restaurant has the best Indian and Sri-lankan delicacies like roast aubergine masala and mach torkari.

Stac Polly: This serves modern Scottish food which has a distinct aroma of home made delicacy.

Hotels & Accommodation:

The hotels and accommodation prices usually comprise of VAT which is currently 17.5 of the regular prices. There could be some exceptions where VAT may be quoted separately. Most of the accommodations are quite hospitable for the tourists with roomy, spacious and bright interiors which could give the overview of the city.

Here are a selection of hotels in Edinburgh:

Linton Court
The George Hotel
Christopher North House Hotel
Ramada Mount Royal
Herald House Hotel
Royal Ettrick Hotel
Best Western Bruntsfield Hotel
Mardale Guest House
Cruachan Guest House
Averon
Hawthorne House
Channings
Corstorphine Lodge Hotel
Glenora Hotel
Greens Hotel
Murrayfield Hotel & Lodge
Eglinton Hotel
Dunstane House Hotel
Ellersly House Hotel
Boreland Lodge Hotel
The Learmonth Hotel
Carlton Hotel
Best Western Braid Hills Hotel
Harvest Guest House
The Parliament House Hotel
Holyrood ApartHotel
Best Western Edinburgh Capital Hotel
The Corstorphine House
Macdonald Holyrood Hotel
The Osbourne Hotel
Royal Scots Club
Old Waverley Hotel
Royal British Hotel
Lyncliff Hotel
Bank Hotel
Royal Terrace Hotel
The Broughton Hotel
The Knight Residence
Royal Garden Apartments
Ben Craig House
Gifford House
Kingsway Guest House
The Ben Doran
Southside Guest House
Macdonald Houstoun House
Frederick House Hotel
Links Hotel & Bar
Tailors Hall Hotel
Express by Holiday Inn Edinburgh Waterfront
Menzies Belford Hotel
Cairn Hotel
Hanover Hotel
Merith House Hotel
The Macdonald Roxburghe Hotel
Malmaison Edinburgh
The Scotsman Hotel
International Guest House
Best Western Edinburgh City Hotel
Orwell Lodge Hotel
Thistle Edinburgh
The Glasshouse, Edinburgh's Boutique Hotel
The Chester Residence
Novotel Edinburgh Centre
Thrums Hotel
Maple Leaf Guest House
Royal Mile Residence
Express by Holiday Inn Edinburgh City Centre
Walton Hotel
Apex City Hotel
Apex European Hotel
Apex International Hotel
Point Hotel
Tron Apartments-Royal Mile
Maple Leaf Apartments
Northumberland Hotel
Park View House Hotel
St Andrews House
Number Ten
Castle Apartments
Grassmarket Hotel
Dreamhouse Seviced Apartments, Edinburgh
Haymarket Hotel
Scottish Apartments

Entertainment:

The Film House, the Cameo Cinema and the Odeon are some of the best movie houses in the city. Edinburgh itself as a place is quite picturesque for movie shoots. Also, the International Edinburgh which takes place for three weeks towards the end of summer is also quite famous and has tremendous entertainment value.

No matter how busy Edinburgh gets, there are still a peaceful retreat?s to be found such as the green oasis of parkland with its own botanical garden. There is truly something of interest for every tourist here. Without doubt, the city of Edinburgh is truly a site to behold for the visitor.

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Name: Maria Williams - Website: http://www.sleepuk.com - Biography: Maria writes for Sleep UK - providers of cheap uk hotels

The Seaside Hotels for the Southern California Family Vacation

Do you want to take you're family vacation to Southern California but are frightened off by expensive hotel reservations or the costs of resort accommodations? The perfect answer might lie in renting a small family owned beach hotel anywhere along the Southern California Coast.

Admit it! Going on a family vacation is expensive. If you are planning on staying in hotels, you usually have to plan on the price of an expensive room accommodation, the lack of individuality in a busy hotel, and the additional costs of eating out at restaurants, which increases both the cost and stress of your vacation. Your family of five might even have to purchase multiple hotel rooms for your night's stay.

Staying in a tent or RV can also be quite stressful for a family vacation. Tents and RVs lack privacy, and in are terribly uncomfortable in the morning sun. It is no wonder that hotel reservations at the smaller beach hotels are becoming the number one choice for families going out on their vacations!

Owners of beachside hotels in Southern California have begun to realize that the perfect way to keep their hotel rooms occupied all season long is to provide hotel reservations at lower costs than the large luxury hotels. And hotel reservation costs at these small hotels are negotiable and reservations can be made at a moments notice.

Families can make reserve rooms for a small seaside hotel for less than they would spend in a luxury hotel, that often have all the comforts of home that cannot be found in the resort hotels. Small family owned hotels that have been made available for rental often include multiple rooms with soft beds, a small kitchenette, and often cable or satellite television. In other words, a small family owned hotel offer all the comforts of home at your favorite vacation destination, for much less and with less hassle than is usually offered either by reserving a hotel room in a larger fancier hotel.

Meals also can be budgeted and implemented with ease, and if you forgot to pack enough food there is always a grocery store a short distance away. Often, there will be stores that specialize in a specific food you might want to eat outside your vacation rental, for example, you might find a store selling Greek food or a vegetable market nearby. A family who chooses hotel reservations in a smaller family owned seaside hotel will save money over a hotel that may be jazzier but is expensive beyond your means!

Smaller California beachside hotels are become much more popular for the family vacation that booking hotel rooms in the larger resorts are slowly falling to the wayside as the family owned hotels begin to take precedence and increase in popularity. The cost effective family vacation and the insurance that hotel reservations in family owned hotel offer are a mutual benefit to all parties concerned.

Douglas Anchell has written and published numerous articles on the Joys of Discount Travel. For more information on discount hotel reservations and family vacations in popular destinations visit us at: http://www.all-reservations.com or http://www.california-accommodations.com

Sleeping In Style: Luxury Hotels

No matter what type of vacation you prefer, there is a luxury hotel awaiting you! One of the benefits of staying in a luxury hotel is that, even if you choose a rustic vacation setting, you can return at day's end to comfort and pampering that makes a vacation truly enjoyable. Whether you're hitting the mountains for hiking or skiing, heading to the ocean beach, or visiting a foreign country, luxury hotels abound.

Why stay at a luxury hotel? It's great to be pampered. Four and five star hotels offer a level of service and hospitality that can't be found in other establishments. You are guaranteed a beautiful setting, and the additional services offered in a luxury hotel are often enough that you don't even need to leave the hotel to enjoy a fabulous vacation!

Many luxury hotels are perfectly situated in areas of high interest for the vacation traveler. When seeking a hotel for vacation purposes (rather than business, for example), determine the location and nearby attractions. Many hotels offer an array of accommodations, such as those included in resort settings or combined with a city's downtown entertainment.

When traveling with children, it's important to determine ahead of time a hotel's policy for young travelers. Some do not allow children under a certain age, while some luxury hotels cater to families. Many offer childcare and children's clubs, so the parents can get a few hours away while the kids enjoy learning something new such as archery or rock climbing.

For those seeking a vacation experience, it is also wise to find out if there are any conventions or other large events taking place while you are there. Hotels located in areas where multiple activities take place (such as in a city as opposed to a resort) are more likely to be busy, so find out ahead of time. This won't guarantee that something won't be booked, but you can lower your chances of booking your stay during a large event. Also, find out if any large tour groups are scheduled for the same time.

Traveling during the off-season is a great way to minimize crowds and maximize your experience. Rates are lower during this time, and many hotels offer package deals. These may include multiple nights or combining local activities with your stay. Be sure to inquire about any promotional offerings when you book your stay. Determine whether the hotel chain offers any promotional memberships or price matching guarantees. If you travel frequently, this can be a money-saving option. Your frequent flyer program may also have specials with certain hotels. Also, find out if any organizations to which you belong have any programs that include travel.

When planning your vacation, do some research yourself before seeking the assistance of a travel agent. Many people prefer to book their own travels, and this is fine, as long as you use a reputable source. For those who travel often, this is a good way to go, and many deals can be found online that are not available elsewhere. When traveling to a new destination, however, it may be wise to use the help of an agent when booking the trip.

Staying in a luxury hotel is a luxury that you'll definitely appreciate. Enjoy your vacation and sleep well.

Luxury Hotel Facts Facts is an information site that contains articles, a directory and other Luxury Hotel Resources. It can be found at: http://www.luxuryhotelfacts.com

Southend-On-Sea City Guide, Including Hotels

Southend-on-Sea is Essex?s largest town and its close proximity to London makes it a popular tourist destination year after year. Better still, it is located in the south east of the country in an area widely regarded as the driest part of Britain.

The town is chock-full of interesting attractions which are aimed at all the family, whether you?re looking for local history, the arts and culture, or family-oriented activities to keep you occupied. Some of Southend-on-Sea?s most popular attractions are:

Southend Pier. Measuring in at 1.33 miles, Southend Pier is the longest pleasure pier in the entire world! Built in 1830, it has recently been refurbished and hosts an RNLI lifeboat station and an exclusive Pier train. Nowhere will you experience better sights of the beautiful coastline of the Thames Estuary.

Central Museum and Planetarium. If you?ve never visited a planetarium then now?s your chance; there are live presentations throughout the day. Meanwhile, the museum reveals plenty of secrets about Southend?s eventful history.

Jubilee Beach. This sand and shingle beach stretches from the Pier to Thorpe Bay; there are also regular pleasure boat trips available.

Southend Cliffs. If you appreciate the beauty of nature, you?ll love these ornamental gardens, which also offer amazing views of the south east coast.

Prittlewell Priory. An excellent museum with the focus on educational activities, housed in the remains of a 12th century priory.

When you arrive in Southend-on-Sea you?ll discover a myriad of activities and things to do, just waiting to be discovered. The town is packed with a mixture of shops, making it one of the most popular shopping areas in the entire southeast, and there are plenty of coffee shops and restaurants where you can rest your legs and take a break. Just a few of the things to do include:

Shopping at The Royals Shopping Centre. Overhead, you?ll see a beautiful glass dome, which protects from the elements whilst letting the sun in. Down below, you?ll find shops ranging from Debenhams to Ottakars, Evans, Sarah Beth and more.

Visiting Adventure Island. This exciting theme park is host to more than forty rides and attractions that will appeal to the kids, as well as the inner child in all of us. Not only that, but the low rates make it one of the best value theme parks in the country.

Checking out Kursaal on the Eastern Esplanade. Here you?ll find an astonishing thirty lanes of ten-pin bowling, many themed restaurants and bars and a unique Mardi Gras play area. Better still, admission is free!

Taking a trip to the Sealife Centre. Lovers of nature will be in their element when visiting this marine centre, which offers an authentic voyage beneath the ocean, where you can glimpse colourful and spectacular marine life in a huge aquarium.

Take part in the Carnival! If your visit coincides with the month of August, you?ll find the annual Carnival in full swing. Events include special processions, fancy dress competitions, fairs, arts festivals, fireworks and more.

As you?d expect, Southend-on-Sea boasts a wide variety of places to eat. The scale ranges from the simplest caf?, where you can sit down with a sandwich and a cup of coffee, to the finest restaurant establishment, where you can enjoy a range of courses. There are also plenty of takeaways enabling you to grab a bite to eat and enjoy it as you stroll down the beach. Here are just a few of the choices:

The Waterfront Caf?. Choose from a wide selection of favourite English food ? fish and chips, roast dinners, or steak. Fish is freshly prepared on the premises and is cooked to order. Many other choices of meal are available, including scampi and lasagne.

The Golden Lion. Plenty of traditional English fare is on offer in this friendly pub, which also caters for special diets.

Camelia Restaurant. Offers French, Italian and English meals with a range of different specials every day. Fresh fish is a speciality; the restaurant also offers pleasant sea views to take in whilst you eat.

Mr Ping. This Chinese restaurant offers two options, eat-in or takeaway. In 2003, it was a ?Restaurant of the Year? finalist.

The Grapevine of Tuscany. An Italian restaurant serving up a la carte menus, pizzas and pasta. You?ll get a choice of eating in or a take-away; fresh homemade pasta is The Grapevine?s speciality.

As Southend-on-Sea is such a popular tourist destination, there are lots of hotels and guesthouses located in and around the town, with many of the finest quality. The good news for the visitor is that all the hotels are vying with each other to offer the most competitive rates, which means you can guarantee quality and value in equal measure. Alternative accommodation ranges from campsites and caravan parks to self-catering cottages, traditional inns and plenty more besides.

Essex County Hotel
The Gleneagles Hotel
The Westcliff Hotel
Ilfracombe House Hotel
Camelia Hotel
Tower Hotel

Southend-on-Sea has plenty of entertainment going on, meaning you?ll never get bored. The town is packed with pubs and nightclubs, enabling you to while away the long twilight hours. For the family, the Odeon Cinema is a massive multiplex that shows all the latest Hollywood blockbusters. Meanwhile, if your tastes are of a theatrical nature, then you?ll no doubt enjoy the Palace Theatre, which consists of a modernised Edwardian building hosting professional shows and entertainment. Alternatively, if you enjoy big spectacle, then the Cliffs Pavilion will be for you; this massive theatre has a huge programme of concerts, ballet, performance artists, musicals and more.

Visitors flock to Southend-on-Sea all year round and it?s easy to see why. With hundreds of things to do, ranging from numerous attractions, family-focused fun and more, it?s impossible to find yourself at a loose end. Alternatively, the town itself is close to places like Leigh-on-Sea, which offer quieter fare, so if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle, you can explore the surrounding villages and countryside. No matter what your tastes, age or needs, Southend-on-Sea is sure to provide exactly what you?re looking for as a tourist destination.

Name: Maria Williams Occupation: Traveller Website: http://www.sleepuk.com Sleep UK are an online hotel booking engine for uk hotels

Hotels Of Paraguay

Paraguay , known for its mix of history and folklore has several large, top ranked hotels to stay in. Paraguay is located in Central South America, with a population of five million people. The popular language is Spanish, but Guarani is widely spoken too.

Whether you are visiting for a short time, or an extended period, there are a host of choices to stay. The sub-tropic climate of South America makes visiting anytime possible and a pleasure. There are hotels in Paraguay for every budget offering a wide array of services.

When booking a trip, check online websites or a travel agent to get the best deal on a hotel in Paraguay. They have up to the minute pricing on hotels in Paraguay and details on any events happening in the city of your destination.

Asuncion is the most popular city to visit in Paraguay. There are hotels in othe Paraguay cities, but they aren?t as large or as many as Asuncion. Some of the most popular hotels in Paraguay are listed below with any amenities they may offer.


Sheraton Hotel, Asuncion, Paraguay

This five star hotel has its own restaurant and bar. Rooms are top notch with phone line, internet connection, cable TV and phone services. Rooms are handicap accessible and have ample parking for cars and busses. The grounds of the hotel house a beauty parlor, a boutique, a gym, an outdoor swimming pool, spa and a sauna.

The hotel has numerous amenities for its guests including babysitting and laundry service. Fees range from $70 per night up to $200 per night for a deluxe room. Special rates apply during holidays and special events.


Hotel Resort Casino Yacht and Golf Club, Asuncion, Paraguay

Hotel Resort Casino Yacht and Golf Club is located on the river. It is conveniently located close to the city and the airport. The hotel offers many outdoor activities, including kayaking, tennis, golf, fishing, squash, basketball and volleyball.

Kid?s activities are offered, as well as events for the ladies. An onsite spa offers beauty treatments, massages, body treatments and relaxation techniques.

State of the art conference facilities are available for banquets, meetings and private functions. Several rooms can accommodate large or small gatherings, with food and beverage services.

A casino makes this hotel of Paraguay unique. Have a great time at night, or any time playing slots, cards or watching others. The Hotel Resort is rated a five star for service and style. Rates are $88 to $149 per night for double occupancy.


Lipa Aparthotel, Asuncion, Paraguay

Situated in a quiet but central location, in Lipa you have easy access to all parts of the city.

Pretty, attractive and affordable modern apartments available with daily, weekly or monthly rates for either a short or a long term stay in Paraguay. Rooms are very comfortable with phone line, DSL internet connection, cable TV, DVD Player, complete kitchen, free mini bar and phone services.

A beautiful tropical garden will invite you to relax, chat with friends or perhaps enjoy a delicious barbecue. Prices range from $38 to $78 per night for double occupancy including breakfast.

When traveling abroad, there are several websites to check for up to date information. http://www.fodors.com offers destination ideas no matter where you are headed. Visit the State Department website for any special warnings or concerns for Americans. They also have recommendations on what vaccinations to get before heading to Paraguay.

Citizens of Paraguay are proud of their country. They take pride in their appearance no matter what economic class they are in. They also expect their visitors to have the same respect for their country. Men wear pants and dress shirts and women wear dresses.

Hotels in Paraguay in the city of Asuncion have good medical facilities nearby. Once you travel outside the city, however, medical supplies are limited.

Shopping in Paraguay is done in the shopping centers, Mariscal Lopez , Shopping del Sol, Multiplaza, Paseo Carmelitas or on the streets. Leather goods and baskets found there are some of the finest handcrafted in the world. Paraguay Hotel Resources and Information