Top 10 unique hotels

Select from the best luxury hotels on an island to cheap hotel prison deals.

When it comes to vacationing, the hotel itself can be as much a part of the vacation as the destination. Before you make hotel reservations at some luxury hotel, think of all the options out there. From a tree house to an ice house, here are some of the most unique hotels from all over the world.

<strong>Kamalame Cay: Your own private island </strong>

The Bahamas

Do you have Robinson Crusoe dreams of living on your own private island? Well, Kamalame Cay offers a private island getaway with Robinson Crusoe adventures and all the luxuries of a four star hotel. This 96-acre soft sandy island is located right off of Andros Bay in the Bahamas and can only be reached by the resort's private ferry or seaplane. Dotted with private villas, guests can enjoy Caribbean cuisine, some of the best snorkeling and fishing along the island's pristine beaches and can go for a dip in the freshwater pool located on the island. Kamalame Cay feeds the need for adventure while offering romance, luxury hotel accommodations and natural beauty.

<strong> Utter Inn: Sleep with the fishes</strong>
Vasteras, Sweden

The Utter Inn, or the Otter Inn in English, is a small, floating Swedish red house with an underwater bedroom fitted with panoramic windows, so you can literally sleep with the fishes. The inn is an art project by Mikael Genberg who has done several other artistic hotels like the Hotell Hackspett or Woodpecker Hotel, which is a tree house, located over 40 feet above a Swedish park. Just hope you don't get claustrophobic, because you get dropped off by boat and don't get picked up again until morning.

<strong>The Jail Backpackers: A taste of the Big House at a small price</strong>
Mount Gambier, South Australia, Australia

Built in 1864, this renovated jail now serves as a hostel for backpackers and travelers alike. Located in Mount Gambier, South Australia, the Jail Backpackers gives tourists a chance to spend the night or the weekend in the slammer for budget prices, $45 for a double room, $20 for a dorm room. Don't worry though; you're not locked down at night. This cheap hotel option offers a kitchen, TV lounge, pool tables, quiet lounge with a fireplace, walled garden spaces and a restaurant. The Mount Gambier area offers many outdoor activities, most well-known is Blue lake, which is a lake located in a volcano. There are plenty of hiking trails, cave tours and sand boarding opportunities.

<strong>The Queen Mary: Don't jump ship on this haunted boat</strong>
Long Beach hotels
Queen Mary Hotel Reviews

If staying the night in a prison isn't creepy enough, try spending the night in a haunted hotel/boat, the Queen Mary. This ocean liner and World War II troopship has a haunted history. One of the most haunted areas on the boat is the no longer used First-Class Swimming Pool. Women in vintage swimsuits have been seen wandering around and wet footprints have been found mysteriously leading from the deck to the changing rooms. The boat/luxury hotel offers more than hauntings, but historic tours, multiple world-class dining options, cabaret shows, a comedy club, spas and suites as well. For $459 you can spend the night in one of the haunted staterooms, but are you brave enough?

<strong>Parrot Nest Lodge: In a tree under the stars</strong>
Cayo, Belize

Staying the night here won't be as creepy as the Queen Mary, unless you are afraid of heights and birds. The Parrot Nest Lodge consists of two thatched tree houses, four cabins and two bathhouses and is surrounded on three sides by the Mopan River, which offers a refreshing swim. As its name implies there are large numbers of parrots, as well as hundreds of other birds, making this a prime bird-watching destination. Giant iguanas are also another friendly garden visitor. Breakfast and dinner are also included with your tree house room for only $40-50 a night room rental, making this a cheap hotel with resort qualities. Hope you're not afraid of the wild.

<strong>Heceta Head Lighthouse: On the cliffs</strong>
Yachats hotels

If staying the night in a tree-house was too high, try spending the evening in a lighthouse perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The Heceta Head Lighthouse is over a hundred years old and considered by many to be one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world. Heceta is also the brightest lighthouse in Seattle, casting light 21 miles out to sea. The Queen Ann style keeper's house has been renovated into a bed and breakfast where guests get to view the lighthouse at night, a rare opportunity. Also, a seven course breakfast is served in the morning, which is included with your room. Magical is the one word many guests use to describe the Heceta Head Lighthouse and bed and breakfast.

<strong>Beckham Creek Cave Haven: Eco-tourist Haven</strong>
Parthenon, Arkansas hotels

Taking over four years to create, the Beckham Creek Cave Haven was created with the philosophy that the on-going preservation of our environment is paramount. Set on a 530-acre estate in Buffalo National River country, this cave hotel offers solitude and plenty of outdoor entertainment among the Ozarks for eco-tourists. On the estate alone there is a mountain and plenty of hiking, biking and fishing places.

<strong>Ice Hotel: Freeze your ice off</strong>
Sweden

A cave of sorts, the Ice hotel is a cavern of ice carved from 10,000 tons of crystal clear ice cut from the Torne River. Every year the hotel must be built from scratch, with new designs and new concepts; it is continually being re-birthed. This luxury hotel includes an ice chapel, an ice art exhibition hall, a cinema and the world famous Absolut Ice Bar. If you can brave the freezing temperatures, the Ice Hotel is well-worth the trip.

<strong>The Gladstone Hotel: 37 artist designed rooms</strong>
Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Each room is not designed out of ice, but designed by a different artist. Located in Toronto, the Gladstone Hotel is a unique, urban hotel with artist designed hotel rooms, as well as short-term art studios and exhibition spaces. The hotel offers a unique insight to the diverse artistic environment of Toronto. Make hotel reservations for the Teen Queen room and relive your Jr. High years or spend the night in the serene Skygazer Room decorated with an amazing wall treatment of plastic relics in cloudlike forms.

<strong>The Burj-al-arab: Sail away with luxury</strong>
Dubai

Located in one of the fastest growing cities, this Dubai hotel is more than just a hotel; it is an experience. That is if you can afford to make the hotel reservations. Resembling a billowing sail, the Burj-al-arab dominates the Dubai skyline at 321 meters. Acknowledged by some to be the best hotel in the world, this all-suite luxury hotel caters to the affluent and offers around-the-clock attention from highly trained butlers, private reception desks on each floor and a spa and health club. At night, the hotel is surrounded by choreographed color sculptures of water and fire. The Burj-al-arab is luxury at its finest and most extravagant.

Jillian Scheeler Provides you a list of unique hotels to spent your vacations. To recieve your free part minicourse visit the http://www.travelpost.com

Jillian Scheeler is a spontaneous road-tripper and avid writer working on assignment for TravelPost.com - The Premier Source for Unbiased Hotel Reviews and Ratings.This article can be reprinted freely as long as all links remain active.

Finding Amsterdam Hotels

It can be quite difficult to find Amsterdam hotels if you do not use the web to help you. Working with a travel agent is one option that you have but this can be rather expensive and limits your choices. The best bet when it comes to finding the Amsterdam hotel you need is to use the web. Why do it? There are several reasons and those are listed here.

1.The internet can help you to find that special place that offers the comforts of home or the romantic feel that you are looking for. If you have some special accommodations or you would like a specific feature to be available, the web can help you to find just that.

2.Finding an affordable price is also a key aspect to using the web to find and book your hotel stay. Prices are very competitive when it comes to online websites offering hotel packages. In fact, unlike many other types of opportunities out there, hotels are almost always less expensive if you do not go to the hotel for booking but rather do it through the travel service.

3.It is very convenient to use these services as well. All you really need to do is to tap into the website, punch in the dates that you are planning to be in Amsterdam and need a hotel and within a matter of seconds you get available rooms for you to select from. With so many various benefits being able to be selected right from the web, you can save yourself quite a bit of time.

Amsterdam hotels can and should be booked through the web. If you are looking for the best way to get into these opportunities, do so with the help of these hotels booking websites. Finding what you really want is out there.
Visit www.amsterdam-hotels-information.info and read more of Simon?s articles.

Enjoy the Best Whistler Hotels

For people who love the mountains and the fresh air, Whistler, British Columbia, is among the most popular vacation destinations in North America. There are dozens of hotels, condos, inns and vacation rentals in Whistler offering accommodation for skiers and mountain bikers. Whistler hotels range from the plain and economical to luxuries five star resorts. Whatever you are looking for, there is bound to be a hotel in Whistler to suit you.

The Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa and the Fairmont Chateau Whistler Lodge are the most luxurious of the Whistler hotels, and both are conveniently located adjacent to the Whistler Blackcomb ski lifts. There are other Whistler hotels, such as the Summit Lodge, which are located outside of the Whistler Village offering fabulous mountain views. When visitors are too tired to ski they can enjoy watching the ski slopes from their lodgings. Hotels which are situated right in the midst of Whistler Village, such as the Whistler Village Inn and Suites, have convenient access to all of the local restaurants and shops, making it easy to find your way around. Whistler's impressive conference facilities are accessed easily from these centrally located hotels and accommodations.

Many lodges and hotels in Whistler are currently undergoing renovations and improvements as Whistler prepares to host part of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. The Athletes' Village in Whistler will be home to nearly as two and a half thousand competitors and officials, and Whistler hotels expect to open their doors to many thousands more spectators. Some hotels in Whistler are already preparing to take bookings from those who want to make sure they don't miss out. It is now popular to book online for most Whistler hotels, often at reduced rates. There are also numerous websites which can help you to source the best deals at Whistler hotels. Booking your accommodations and hotels in Whistler has never been easier.

Since Whistler hotels are at their busiest during the popular winter ski seasons, there are often cheap deals available for hotels in Whistler BC at off-peak times, which visitors able to enjoy price reductions as big as seventy percent off. These can make Whistler a practical vacation destination for the cash-conscious traveller. Whistler hotels can assist with access to ski facilities year round, whenever the slopes are safe, and there's plenty more to discover in the village itself. Aside from the beautiful views, visitors staying in Whistler hotels can enjoy access to some of Canada's most beautiful mountain biking trails, and hiking trips are also popular. Whistler hotels provide a great base from which to explore this fantastic region. So take a little time to find the right Whistler hotel, and you could find yourself on a vacation which you will remember for the rest of your life.

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Sources:-

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whistler,_British_Columbia

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g154948-Whistler_British_Columbia-Hotels.html

To find the best Whistler Hotels visit the Search BC Hotels website at http://www.searchbchotels.com/Whistler-1.shtml

Luxury Apartments Less Than Hotels

After 9/11/2001 a lot was going through my mind. Was it safe to travel? Should I travel?

My sister was going to have her first child and we wanted to travel somewhere before she became a mother. I had visited Paris when I was 17, stayed with a family as part of an exchange agreement. I fell in love with Paris but did not get to experience enough of it so I wanted to go back (13 years later). My sister and I discussed taking our mother to Paris as a gift for sending us to Paris when we were younger.

As we began our search for affordable places to stay in Paris, we began to realize that there were many options. We discussed hotels, youth hostels, staying with friends, etc. As we planned our trip our group grew to 8 persons (my sister, sister's husband, brother-in-law and sister-in-law, a family friend, our younger sister, my mother and finally myself). After looking at all of our options we decided to look at luxury vacation rentals. We definately aren't wealthy but when you realize that a luxury apartment split 8 ways for one week is little over $150-200 per person for a week in Paris, we couldn't get our minds off finding the perfect vacation rental. Well we found one we liked that was within our budget. it was a 3 bedroom 2 bathroom apartment with a view of the Sacre-Coeur Church. The apartment was recently renovated and was beautiful. Not only was it available for the week we wanted but it had a last minute special which brought our cost down to $150 per person.

We were within walking distance to Monmartre, Abbesses, the Moulon Rouge. The Abbesses and Anvers metro stations were both within 10 minutes walk from our apartment so we were able to be anywhere in Paris within 25 minutes (Eiffel Tower, Champs-Elysees, Arc d'Triomphe, and the Louvre). It was the perfect base for our vacation.

Not only was renting an apartment less expensive then a hotel but the apartment also included all towels, soaps, laundry facilities, kitchen, espresso maker, dishwasher, stove, microwave; it also had all of the staples for cooking such as salt, sugar, spices. There was even cleaning supplies and laundry detergent.

After our week in Paris we decided that there was not better way to experience Paris, than living as a Parisian in a Parisian apartment!

Rebekah Owens is owner of one of the largest European Vacation Rental listing sites (http://www.vangoghrentals.com). The site has been running for approximately 1 1/2 years with over 600 rentals (mostly of which are in France). She offers free advice in forums on webdesign, marketing, and managing vacation rental properties.

Cheltenham City Guide, Including Cheltenham Hotels

Located in the heart of the scenic Cotswolds, Cheltenham is a city famous for many things ? its horseracing and award-winning gardens being just two of them. Then, of course, you have the Regency architecture of the city centre and the lively shopping district, elements that come together to bring vivacity and life to this Gloucestershire city. Further, the city also proves to be a fine base from which to explore the surrounding Cotswolds, home of gently rolling hills and quaint, charming villages.

Places of interest

When you come to Cheltenham, you will soon discover that the draw of the city lies in its appearance, for it has long been considered to be one of Britain?s prettiest towns. Accordingly, many of Cheltenham?s places to visit are ones that focus on scenic displays and historic buildings. Some of the most popular tourist destinations are:

The Holst Birthplace Museum. Originally the home of the famous composer Gustav Holst (of ?The Planets? fame), this Regency home shows life as it was in the Victorian period ? and incorporates a working Victorian kitchen.

Pittville Park & Pump Room. The beautiful Park contains two lakes, a golf course and spacious, well-tended lawns, whilst the historic Pump Room contains the drinkable spa waters that originally made Cheltenham famous.

The Imperial Gardens. For almost two hundred years, the gardens have been enjoyed by thousands of visitors every year ? not least due to the 25,000 bedding plants used annually to create the extensive floral displays.

Sudeley Castle & Gardens. Located just eight miles outside of Cheltenham, the castle is open during the summer and visitors have the chance to see some of the beautiful paintings and artefacts inside.
The Promenade. Cheltenham?s most famous street boasts pavement cafes, smart shops and an attractive history. Lined with trees and boasting Regency architecture throughout, it is considered to be the most picturesque part of the city.

Things to do

During your stay in Cheltenham, you?ll discover a pleasing variety of attractions to visit and things to do, whether you?re a family or couple, or just visiting alone. Throughout the year, the city is buzzing with activity, playing host to many festivals and events, such as the Literature Festival. Just a few things to see and do include:

Cheltenham Town Hall. The elegant hall plays host to festivals in the city throughout the year, and at the same time stays a concert programme in which the music ranges from the classical to the contemporary.

The Everyman Theatre. This hotspot features a massive variety of live entertainment, where you can watch musicals, comedy, drama and even West End productions on tour.

Cheltenham Racecourse. This world-famous venue is home to plenty of racing during the October to April season. Why not time your visit to coincide with the popular National Hunt Festival in March, or visit the Hall of Fame that relays the history of steeple chasing?

Cotswolds Coach Tours. Take the opportunity and join a scenic coach tour in which you?ll join a guide and take in some of the most beautiful views of the English Cotswolds.

Cotswold Farm Park. See history brought to life with numerous animal demonstrations and displays, an ideal place to visit for all the family. There are many rare breeds of farmyard animal from sheep to cattle, waterfowl to horses.

Food & Drink

Cheltenham is home to many different types of restaurant, with the focus on quality. Of course, if you?re after something fast and easy, you?ll find plenty of different caf?s and takeaways serving up what you?re looking for, but Cheltenham particularly prides itself on being the home of many stylish eateries. Here are some of the best you can sample:

The Scena Bistro. Enjoy one of the finest dining experiences in Cheltenham at this French restaurant, which has a relaxed and welcoming style.

Off the Square Restaurant. Located in Cheltenham?s fashionable Montpellier district, this friendly eatery serves a variety of dishes on the menu, including plenty of old favourites. Eat in style.

Monty?s Seafood Restaurant. Visit and enjoy a flexible menu that offers a range of different seafood. Alternatively, keep it simple and enjoy the stylish accompaniment of oysters with champagne.

The Storyteller Restaurant. Located in the heart of Cheltenham, this Californian restaurant is both welcoming and atmospheric, boasting the famous Mississippi Seafood Platter and the taste bud-teasing Duck from Heaven.

Epicurian. This is one of Cheltenham?s top restaurants, featuring a bistro and wine bar.

Hotels & Accommodations

There are literally hundreds of places to stay during your visit to Cheltenham, whether you?re looking for a hotel, guesthouse, bed and breakfast or self-catering establishment. Alternatively, other types of accommodation include camping and caravan sites and hostels. Many of the hotels offer special offers and it?s always advisable to search around to find the best deals. Elizabethan manors and country mansions serve as the setting for some of the top hotels in the district.

Kings Arms Hotel
Cheltenham Park Hotel
George Cheltenham Ltd
Beaumont House
Macdonald Queen's Hotel
Cotswold Grange Hotel
Hotel On The Park
North Hall Hotel
The Prestbury House Hotel & Oaks Restaurant
Clarence Court Hotel
The Quality Hotel Cheltenham
Cleeve Hill Hotel
Thistle Cheltenham
The CheltenhamTownhouse Hotel
Lords of the Manor
Rising Sun Hotel
White Hart Inn
De La Bere Hotel
Oaklands Bed and Breakfast

Entertainment

The night life in Cheltenham is completely entertaining with a host of nightclubs and exciting pubs and bars. You?ll find Cheltenham to be a welcoming and friendly city where you?ll always feel safe. If you?re looking for a nightclub, Subtone and Enigma are two of the most popular, with attractive line-ups of events going on all the time; alternatively, if you?re a fan of Hollywood then you?ll discover that the Odeon cinema shows all the latest blockbusters as well as popular British films.

Cheltenham is sometimes called a city within a park, and when you visit, you?ll see why. The architecture of the city itself is beautiful enough, with Regency-period buildings (over two thousand of them listed!) and attractive designs, but the picturesque parks are what make Cheltenham really special. There are lots of tree-lined avenues, plenty of floral displays and many more examples of nature in bloom that give Cheltenham a truly attractive appearance. Combine this with the wealth of activities and places to see, and it?s hard to deny that Cheltenham is one city you really must visit.

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

Cardiff City Guide, Including Cardiff Hotels

Introduction:

The Welsh capital, Cardiff, is really a city on the move. Home to over 350, 000 people, this city underwent a tremendous and progressive development over a period of time. It is home to an impressive coal empire and has evolved into one of Europe?s most beautiful maritime cities, embraced by lovely countryside. Of all the major reconstruction that the city has witnessed, a prominent mention should be given to the impressive appearance of the Millenium Stadium, which greets you as you come out from the railway station. The Millenium Stadium dominates the skyline on the western edge of the city center and is home to many major sporting and entertainment events.

If you visit Cardiff, you are sure to be impressed by the peaceful and carefree life that greets you. The city is famous for its quality of life. Though most of its residents live in the suburbs, they have to travel only for 10 or 15 minutes by public or private transport to get to the city center. The suburbs have a unique charm akin to villages and hamlets that dreams are made of.

Places of interest:

Cardiff Castle: Also known as Castell Caerdydd, Cardiff Castle was founded in Roman times and became the foothold of the Norman Empire. Even now you can see the ruins of the Norman Empire here. The Victorian look of the castle was the brainchild of the third Marquis of Bute (1848-900). He employed an architect called William Burges who decorated the ornate interiors of the castle with murals and added neo-Gothic towers with murals, stained glass windows and decorative carvings. The castle also has two military museums and massive grounds. The famous Bute Park came into existence from the grounds of the Cardiff Castle.

Millennium stadium: This 72,500-seater stadium is one of the most modern and luxuriant sports stadiums in Europe. You can take advantage of the guided tours to visit the pitch, the royal box, the dressing rooms of the players and other areas.

Cardiff Bay: This beautiful place introduces you to some of the finest architectural work in Cardiff. The Cardiff Bay barrage was open to the public after June 2001. This led to a creation of a fresh water lake and a 12 km long waterfront with parks, shopping complexes, entertainment centres, bars and restaurants. Techniquest, a science museum, and Norwegian Arts church arts centres are the other prominent landmarks here.

Museum of Welsh Life (Amgueddfa Werin Cymru): This beautiful museum is set in 104 acres of Parkland, in St. Fagans, west of the city centre. You would be impressed with the extensive collection of precious Welsh literature, works and craftsmanship. There is a collection of historic Welsh townships, farms, tannery, pottery, Victorian schoolrooms etc, which have been purchased from different places in Wales and rebuilt in the huge grounds of the museums. Another notable image would be of the Iron-age Celtic village.

Things to do:

Travel- The public transport in the city is provided by the bus. The main provider is the Cardiff Bus. The buses have an operation time of 0530-2330 hours. The buses have reduced hours during the public holidays and the weekends. Alternatively, you can hire the services of a taxi. They are either black hackney cabs or cars with company logos that indicate that they are used for public transport. There are companies like Black Cabs, DragonTaxies and Central Taxis, which can help you hire the services of their taxis. Visitors are expected to pay about ?4.00 for a trip across town. The traffic is quite heavy during the peak hours, which would be Monday through Friday 0800-0900 and 1700-1800. If you want to rent a car, then you would have to own a valid driving license. It could usually be a national driving license. If you are a tourist, then you may also do with an International Driving Permit. You need to check the kind and the grade of insurance given to you along with the car hire.

Eating: Follow the gradation of the restaurants as per the prices, if you plan to eat out at any of the restaurants in Cardiff: Assuming you eat a three course meal accompanied by a half litre of wine, then you should expect to pay the following prices for different grade restaurants: **** (over ?40) *** (?25 to ?40) ** (?10 to ?25) * (under ?10) The prices usually include taxes and tips.

Shopping: You can shop till you drop in the specialist shops and boutiques within the seven Victorian and Edwardian arcades situated in the city centres. Important departmental stores such as Howells are open from 9am to 6pm, although this is not a rule. There are some shops that are open on Sundays too.

Special activities: Wales is home to a lot of Eisteddfod festivals around the country. You can feel the ancient Celtic heritage in their music and movies. You can purchase the tickets to the cultural events in Cardiff through phone, box offices or online. The city is famous for the male choir voice, which is the hallmark of the Welsh pride.

Food & Drink:

Tiles: This is an internationally acclaimed part of the St. David?s hotel. The restaurant has the best seafood in Cardiff and you could also have a breathtaking view of the Millennium Waterfront as you savour the seafood with a tasty glass of wine.

Underdeb: This is one restaurant that is so popular that you would have to reserve seats for the place days in advance. Home to some creative and tasty dishes; this place would keep you craving for more.

LeGallois: This hotel is famous for some interesting and distinctive French food with a Welsh twist. You also get the best customer service and a pleasant ambience.

Izakaya: This trendy Japanese restaurant at the Millenium Quay has the best Japanese Sushi food (more than 70 varieties) in Cardiff.

Dorothy?s: You get the taste of local food to make you feel like a red-blooded Welsh with the best fish and chips you could find. The chicken curry is one more dish you cannot miss.

Benedicto: You have the best of Italian dishes here. The wine tastes amazingly fine and you can have a gala time here. However, you would have to keep away from smoking if you want to enjoy the food and the ambience.

Hotels & Accommodation:

Cardiff has an abundence of beautiful hotels with excellent accommodation facilities. The hotels could be classified into 4 different pricing categories:

**** (over ?150)
*** (?100 to ?150)
** (?50 to ?100)
* (under ?50)

The prices listed above are for a double room per night, including tax and breakfast.

Here are selection of hotels in cardiff:

Cardiff Park Plaza
Angel Hotel
Thistle Cardiff
Millennium Lodge
Cardiff Sandringham Hotel
The Royal Hotel
Macdonald Holland House Hotel
The Big Sleep Hotel
The Lodge by Macdonald
Novotel Cardiff Centre
Village Hotel Cardiff
Cardiff Moat House Hotel
Quality Hotel Cardiff
Future Inn Cardiff Bay
Campanile Hotel Cardiff
The Copthorne Hotel Cardiff
Manor House Hotel
Tadross Hotel
VALE HOTEL, GOLF & SPA RESORT
Best Western Mount Sorrel Hotel

Entertainment:

The New Theatre Park Place, founded in 1909 and refurbished in the 1980s, is a premier venue in Wales for hosting popular plays, theatres and dances. The New Wales Millennium Dance Center is another famous place for international choreographers and native dancers to exhibit their talents. Mary Ann Street, Capital Odeon and the Millennium Plaza are important venues to screen mainstream movies.

Cardiff is a city that is still growing. With the Welsh getting its due as a nation in its own right and the city completing its 50 years as the state capital last year, Cardiff is the perfect resort for any tourist who wants to witness a city on the road to progress and prosperity, albeit retaining its strong Celtic roots.

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

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

Vacation In Italy - Private Holiday Homes Versus Hotels

Vacationing in Italy is a dream come true for so many Americans. Those who have Italian heritage often wish to see where their families originated. Those who have no Italian lineage still look upon Italy as one of the foundations of Western civilization. Rome, Venice, Tuscany, Florence, Umbria, Chianti, San Gimignano, Siena, Orvieto, Todi, Assisi, Spleto and Montepulciano are all legendary to those of us raised in the "new world" and for many are simply places we?ve read about in our school books, or seen on television or in the movies. Many Americans, sadly, know little of the geography of Italy, but do appreciate the food. After all, pizza and spaghetti are considered as American to us as apple pie and hot dogs. But only on a trip to Italy can a person really appreciate this magnificent country, home to Leonardo da Vinci, Michaelangelo, and Christopher Columbus.

When you are ready for that once in a lifetime experience of an Italian vacation, consider a private home rental for your source of lodging. Hotels can be nice, but staying in a private home rented for the occasion can give you a chance to see the real Italy. Explore the countryside, walk into the village and visit with the residents, and see what it feels like to actually go home, to a cabin or villa at the end of the day, living as the Italians do. Or, try a beach house if that suits you or an apartment if you prefer a more urban setting. Getting to know the local people by living among them for an extended stay of a few weeks will give you a chance to learn some of the language, or if you already speak Italian to brush up on your skills. It will also give you a chance to learn local history in a very unique way, from the people themselves. You will appreciate all of the similarities of Italian culture with your own, and learn to appreciate the differences as well. The Italians are a wonderful, friendly people with a rich culture and history. Taking the time to live among them, getting to know them as friends and neighbors, is truly an experience you will always remember.

Private homes for rent to vacationers in Italy can be found in various price ranges. If you are looking for luxury, there are villas available. If something more rustic suits your taste and budget, then smaller homes and even old farmhouses are available to appeal to all tastes. Just as an example, one property includes two bedrooms, queen size beds, kitchen, laundry area, bathroom, central eat and the satellite television, telephone and VCR that most Americans are used to having. Imagine though the coziness and comfort of coming back to the house after a day of sight seeing to sit by the fire place, drinking a glass of a local wine, having a light dinner of pasta, and enjoying the peace and quiet of your surroundings. Staying in a hotel in a major city will certainly show you the tourist hot spots, but staying in a private home will show you the real Italy.

Rent holiday home or vacation rental in Italy and enjoy your stay!

http://arrangeyourvacation.com - Holiday Homes and Vacation Rentals Worldwide is a leader in luxury vacation rentals worldwide, with an extensive portfolio of luxury villas and homes. To place a free advertisement for your vacation rentals or holiday homes in Italy or find the perfect lodging for you - visit http://italy-vacation-homes.com

Southampton City Guide, Including Hotels

Introduction:

Set on the coast of Hampshire, south of Winchester, this is a place that abounds with a fascinating heritage. The Romans, who established it as a seaport, founded Southampton approximately 2,000 years ago. This was the port from which the ill-fated Titanic had set sail on her maiden voyage in 1912. Even though the place was affected during the Second World War, Southampton has grown sturdy with huge docks built for the cruise industry. The core of the modern city is now based around the City Centre.

Places of Interest:

Southampton is famous for ports, art galleries and museums. The place has a story to tell everywhere you visit.

Museum of Archaeology - This museum recount?s Southampton?s history with displays from prehistoric, Roman, Saxon and medieval times.

Medieval Merchants? House-This is one of the earliest surviving merchants? homes in the UK. Tourists can take in a glimpse and see how life was 700 years ago thanks to the authentically recreated furniture and overall ambience.

Solent Sky ? Solent Sky, where the world?s first seaplane was built. It is also the place where the Spitfire fighter plane, used heavily in the Second World War, was born.

Southampton City Art Gallery - Situated in the heart of the Cultural Quarter, it contains over 3,500 works of art spanning six centuries of European culture. The 20th century British art remains the main attraction here.

Things to do:

Southampton is a great place to shop and dine. Be it enjoying the nightlife or being a part of special events, this city has always had lots to offer.

Shopping - The West Quay complex on West Quay Road offers shoppers a good selection of high street retailers, designer boutiques and traditional shops. The West Quay Retail Park brims with the choicest of retailers that are normally found on the outskirts of towns. Other good shopping areas include the Marlands Mall, Portland Terrace and the Bargate Centre, off the High Street on East Street.

Restaurants - There are many restaurants offering an eclectic mix of cuisines. The rates are competitive and the price range for a three course meal for one, including a half bottle of house wine or equivalent (where available) is:

**** (over ?40)

*** (?30 to ?40)

** (?20 to ?30)

* (up to ?20)

Tipping of around 10% for a three-course meal with wine is given customarily in up market eating places. During weekends most restaurants require prior booking.

Transport - The airport is situated 7km (4 miles) northeast of Southampton on the outskirts of the city. A good rail network links Southampton with the main rail station in the city. The National Express operates regular coach services connecting Southampton with various destinations in the UK. The National Express terminal is located in the centre of the city on Western Esplanade within a stone?s throw from the Central Railway Station. Taxis can be hailed on the street or at ranks at the railway and bus stations. First Southampton is a company that operates a comprehensive network of buses linking all parts of the city. Bus no. 12 operates between the city centre and International airport.

Nightlife - From conventional old alehouses to stylish bars and nightclubs, Southampton has a flourishing nightlife with a huge chioce. The Red Lion, 55 High Street, or The Duke of Wellington, 36 Bugle Street; are two of the traditional old alehouses having a decent bar menu.

Special events - There are events like Titanic Memorial (Sep 4), the Southampton Boat Show (Sep 16-25) and Trafalgar Day with trips on the SS Shieldhall on the Solent (Oct 21), which are specific to Southampton. In Euroblade, October, Southampton?s city streets are closed off and turned into a track for inline skating. The event is not a race and is open to skaters of all ages and abilities. It assumes dimensions of a festival atmosphere with wigs, crash helmets and fancy dress.

Food and Drink:

Langley?s Bistro and Garden Room Caf? -This is a non-smoking restaurant that serves the best of food and wine. The ambience as well as the great customer service is worth writing and raving about.

Kuti?s Brasserie - Situated in the centre of the town, Kuti?s is also a place that has great ambience and offers authentic Indian and Bangladeshi food.

La Cantina - With dishes like fajitas, tacos and fiery chilies, this place makes for a good party environment.

Olive Tree - It offers a selection of the best European dishes.

The Woodlands Lodge Hotel - A 15-minute drive away from the city centre, this place gives you the choicest food in the most scenic of surroundings.

Hotels and Accommodation:

Southampton, being an important sea port, receives visitors by the ferry-load, which means there is no shortage of places to choose from. The hotels given below are categorized into four different pricing categories and are based on the cost of a double room per night with breakfast and including all taxes:

**** (over ?120)

*** (?80 to ?120)

** (?40 to ?80)

* (up to ?40)

The services offered by the larger hotels will usually include a gym, pool and extensive business and conference facilities.

The Star Hotel
Southampton Park Hotel
Dormy House Hotel
Macdonald Botley Park Hotel, Golf & Country Club
Initial Style Conferences
GRAND HARBOUR
Express By Holiday Inn Southampton - M27, JCT7
Novotel Southampton
Chilworth Manor Classic Hotel
Dolphin Hotel
Jurys Inn Southampton

Entertainment:

The Mayflower Theatre on Commercial Road is the largest theatre in southern England. Another good venue for live comedy is the Jongleurs Comedy Club, 2-4a High Street. There is normally a disco after the comedy acts. There are two multiplex cinemas UGC and Odeon, which play the latest movies.

The strategic maritime importance has played a noteworthy part in how Southampton developed over the years. Today the port is synonymous with the city. Tourists love to flock to this place, which is growing every year with several development projects in the pipeline, like a ?162 million project to create a huge entertainment arena at West Quay.

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

Amsterdam Sightseeing and Hotels

Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands, and is one of the largest historic cities in Europe. The city lies near two bodies of water, the Amstel river and the IJ bay. For many tourists, Amsterdam is a city which is well known and praised for its entertainment and culture. The city at this time has a population of over 700,000.

Amsterdam is a city, which had very humble beginnings. It was founded in the 12th century as a small fishing village, but didn't begin to gain recognition until the 17th century, during the Golden Age of The Netherlands. A series of canals have been built around the older part of the city, and many luxurious mansions and homes lie near these canals.

If you are planning a trip to Amsterdam, do not expect to be bored. For those who love art, Amsterdam is well known for its many museums. The Rijksmuseum showcases art from the Golden Age, and the Van Gogh Museum along with the Rembrandt House Museum are places every art lover should visit.

Those who enjoy history may want to visit the Anne Frank House, and anyone with a love of classical music should visit the world class Concertgebouworkest. Amsterdam is also known for its red light district, called de Wallen, and the many coffee shops, some of which sell cannabis.

Amsterdam is a city that has something for everyone. If you are traveling there, it is important to get accomodations at excellent hotels. Although you can find nice hotels on a budget, Amsterdam is an upscale city. Budget travelers and backpackers may find themselves spending a little more than in other European cities.

When it comes to money, Visa or Eurocard are widely accepted. Most large purchases will require use of a credit card. For everything else, just keep fifty dollars handy. Changing your currency in Amsterdam is easy. Any post office or bank will exchange currencies for you, often at good exchange rates.

The restaurants available in Amsterdam have a very international flavour. Traditional Dutch food is fairly simple, with meats and potatoes. There are restaurants for those on a budget as well as those wanting to eat in luxury.

Restaurants in Amsterdam usually charge service fees and taxes along with the prices you pay for your meal, and tipping is always welcomed. When it comes to traveling, Amsterdam is bicycle friendly. Buses also travel heavily throughout the city, and you can always catch a taxi cab. Due to the many types of transportation available, getting around in Amsterdam is fairly cheap.

Rahul viz recommends Sightseeing and hotels in amsterdam.

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Historic Hotels in Amsterdam

While vacationing in Amsterdam, try staying inside an historical hotel. The experience of Amsterdam does not have to stop at the footsteps of your hotel. Let the experience deepen with a hotel that is as striking and vibrant as the city, often known as "Venice of the North".

Clustered together on about ninety islands and joined together by hundreds of intricate stone bridges, Amsterdam is home to miles of canals. The result is a quiet city... as far as traffic is concerned. However, don't mistake the lack of cars for the lack of excitement. Amsterdam is home to hundreds of entertainment possibilities, both lively and cultural.

But where can a traveler stay in Amsterdam? Why not choose a luxury historic hotel?

How to Pick the Right Historic Hotel in Amsterdam

When staying in Amsterdam, you'll want to pick a hotel based on what your needs are. Different hotels may cater to different things. Are you more interested in heading out to the wild life of the Red Light District? You'll want a hotel that's nearby that location. Perhaps you prefer some of the museums or other cultural events and would prefer a hotel near there.

You'll want a hotel that is close to the places you want to visit. This is especially true if you have planned only a weekend for visiting Amsterdam.

Suggestions of Historic Hotels in Amsterdam

Not far from Central Station in downtown Amsterdam is the famous historic Victoria Hotel. Located between the business district and shopping and Dam Square, it is an ideal location for business travelers and tourists alike.

Among it's many features include not only its historical value, it has all the modern features you enjoy from a hotel; sauna, indoor pool and a real Turkish steam bath. They have spacious rooms and some even have their own personal entrances. Created in 1890, it is one of the best featured four star hotels in the city.

Another lovely historical hotel is the Swissotel Amsterdam. This historic building has been modernized on the inside to give it a contemporary feel. It also has a location near Dam Square.

Amid lively streets, the Swissotel Amsterdam stands at six stories and is a convenient distance from the Royal Palace and the Central Railway Station. All of the rooms have modern amenities, so this historic hotel doesn't feel quite so back in time for those who do enjoy a modern lifestyle. A fashionable lounge offers light meals and drinks upon your request.

Benefits of a Historic Hotel in Amsterdam

After a day at the Museum Amstelkring, dancing at Seymour Likely Lounge or dinner at the Long Pura, you'll want to put up your feet. Do you really want the culture to cut out the moment you enter the lobby? The culture of Amsterdam doesn't have to end there. With a stay in an historic hotel, you can learn much more.

While at your hotel, ask for a tour. Many hotels in the area have a history and staffs love to show off the beautiful place that they work in.

Anyone can find a more modern hotel, a Holiday Inn or Sheridan is always available in most major cities, but then again, such hotels offer the same benefits you can get in your local area. Enrich your experience by choosing to stay in one of the more beautiful historic hotels of Amsterdam.

Fionn Downhill is President of Four Corners Hotels offering hotels in cities around the world. To find out more about hotels in Amsterdam visit http://www.fourcornershotels.com/index.php/NL--Amsterdam

Bali Hotels Or Bali Villas

Dear Reader,

One says that traveling is not an exact science, to combine between their cultures, traditions, countries and different languages sometimes are not easy. Trust an expert, contact your reputable travel agent may be important.

Most people come to Bali want to see and enjoy its arts and cultures, its fabulous nature?s views, its nice beaches, its friendly people, for pure relaxation and some for business and stay on. Whatever is one?s aim, the accommodation is one of the most important aspects in order to get the comforts and memorable holiday.

There are a myriad of accommodations to choose from in Bali, from five-star luxury Bali hotels or Bali Villas to budget one just a few dollars a night. The main tourist hub is in the southern triangle formed by Sanur, Kuta and Dusa Dua. For those who prefer the comforts of home and the relaxation of the beach, this is a good starting place. Other beach areas are Lovina in the north, Candi Dasa in the east and Canggu and Yeh Gangga in the west.

If you are a sun?s lover, then stay at Kuta (a wild and crazy kind of place) or its quieter sister beaches Legian and Seminyak up the road, Candi Dasa on the east coast, Sanur and Nusa Dua in the south or Lovina in the north. If you are a culture?s lover, then stay in Ubud in central Bali.

Thus for your accommodation what do you prefer Bali Hotels or Bali Villas? Both hotels and villas shall give you some advantages. For those who want a hotel that has a nice beach front or hotel by the sea or a room that facing the ocean, Bali Hotel is an easier choice, because most of luxury Bali Hotels that line the coast of Bali. There are plentiful of hotels either in building style or in Balinese style bungalow, both offer modern comports and excellent service, but without maximum privacy. Most Bali Hotels have one or more restaurants and bars that offer a wide range of local and international cuisines. Also sports and Spa facilities are usually available like tennis, billiards, squash, fitness center, games room, and some with golf course.

For those who want to enjoy a total privacy and perhaps a perfect Balinese lifestyle, stay at a private villa is a right choice. One can enjoy the luxury of a beautiful private villa with air-conditioned bedrooms and tropical bathrooms to dream about, spacious living and dining areas and spacious terraces, a lush tropical garden with your own private swimming pool, and well-trained house staff to take care of everything around the clock. And you?ll appreciate the comfort and informality you can only experience in a private home.

Instead of staying in hotel rooms (bed, two chairs, dressing table, TV set and telephone, wardrobe, small bathroom), your family will enjoy this truly Balinese experience. And you have much more space, more informality, more privacy, and more personal service than even the best hotel can provide.

You can even save up to 50% - 70% of meals and drinks if you stay at a private villa with full furnished kitchen if you decide a self-service vacation. Order your groceries, favorite snacks and drinks to be brought for you at the local supermarket or wine wholesaler. You?ll be surprised at the low cost when you pay the same prices as locals do. Or just ask the villa manager to do so, and a trained cook (with reasonable extra cost) to prepare you delicious meals or any special diet. And also Bali?s 21% tax & service charge and airport transfer is included on villa rental.

There are numbers of luxury villas at Bali?s hotels & resorts. If you prefer a hotel environment and services and don?t mind to pay inflated prices for accommodation and food & beverages, you can also book some villa-like accommodation at one of luxury Bali?s hotels through a reliable travel agent and still enjoy savings and extra benefits.

So, do not hesitate to choose the island of Bali in Indonesia for your memorable holiday. Bali is the most enchanting travel destination in the world, its year-round pleasant climate, its friendly people; its fabulous nature?s views, its nice beach and the absence of major criminal activities guarantee a completely relaxing stay. Because of the physical beauty of the island and its wide variety of attractions, Bali has become for many experienced travelers the ?ultimate island?.

Go online and search your preferred Bali hotels or Bali villas or contact your reliable travel agent. The wide choice can be confusing especially for first time visitors, and it?s sometimes difficult to select the right Bali Hotels or Bali Villas. So just let your travel agent knows your personal needs and preferences that he can recommend those hotels or villas it feels will suit you best.

Thanks you reader and have a nice day. Made Dertha was an English and Italian tour guide for many years in Bali, writes for Bali Turista Tours where he is the Managing Director now. Bali Turista is focusing on Bali hotels and villas reservation. Just visit www.baliturismo.com

Staying in Discount Hotels

Discount hotels can be wonderful places to stay, while allowing you to save money on your hotel stay and have more to spend sightseeing or on other travel adventures. If you think that you might be interested in staying in a discount hotel it is important to do your research to make sure you select the right hotel, and get the best deal possible.

Most discount hotels are discounted through a particular club or organization, and are discounted primarily for its members. If you are a part of any types of groups or organizations check with them to see if they have any deals set up with hotels, and if so what types of discounts those particular arrangements will supply you with. In many cases you can get a discount if you stay a certain number of nights in the hotel, or if you stay in a particular type of room. If you choose the wrong combination of those things however, you can often be denied the right to the discount.

Make sure you fully understand what is required for you to get the discount before you make your reservation. Often times if you do one thing incorrectly, such as book the wrong type of room, or stay one day less or more than is required you can forfeit your right to the discount. Pay careful attention to the rules, and make sure to tell the hotel that you plan on using the discount when you make your reservation. That way, if you are doing something incorrectly the hotel can possibly catch it before it's too late, and the hotel clerk can make a note that you are getting the room reservations for a reduced rate.

Another type of discount hotel, will offer discounts through coupons or just in general to all of their guests should they choose to come visit the hotel during certain times, or stay in certain rooms. In some cases a discount hotel will always be discounted, but it will also lack some of the things that you might have become accustomed to in their hotels. By discounting the price of a nights stay, they also take away some of the perks of staying in a hotel. What you don't gain in amenities however, you will gain in discounts.

Just like any other hotel stay you will want to make your reservation at a discount hotel as early as possible. Discount hotels have superior rates to other hotels, so in many cases they will book up more quickly than other similar hotels in the area. As soon as you know that you are going to take a trip to a particular area and would like to stay in a discount hotel, go ahead and give the hotel a call and try to make a reservation. In some cases you may be able to get a much better rate for booking your reservation early rather than later, and you will also be able to finalize your plans knowing that you have a place to stay.

Discount hotels can be a great way to save money while traveling to locations that you would like to visit. If you are planning a trip, give a discount hotel a call to see what kind of rates and accommodations they can offer you. Always ask any hotel you call if they have an specials, or discounted rates. In many cases what you are currently being offered is not the absolute best that you can get. You might be surprised at the savings that you can receive, and the types of locations you can travel to, while staying at a discount hotel.

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