Tag Archives: Holiday

Check Out Some of The Top Reasons to Visit Greece!

Words aren’t enough to describe how beautiful the top reasons to visit Greece truly are. Greece has it all – from ancient ruins and fascinating history, to the breathtaking city of Athens. Of course, don’t forget the countless pristine beaches and islands rich in culture and heritage.  You will truly take pleasure in the numerous sights to explore and experience in this beautiful country nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea.

The Parthenon atop the Acropolis in Athens, Greece

A place like no other

Visiting Greece as a first-timer is really a life-changing experience because you will get to take in a unique place which exudes extraordinary charm and beauty. The country’s tranquil pace of life and marvelous panoramas are simply one of the top reasons to visit Greece that will awe and make you fall in love with the place over and over again. So, just sit-back and expect a journey that will linger in your heart for a lifetime. Trek the matchless terrain in Meteora. Dive into the virgin, still-to-be-delve-into coves. Swim into the globally recognized beaches such as Belgrina, Myrtos and Balos and be revitalized by their refreshing clear blue waters.

Greece is affordable

Greece is one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe (even though it’s located at the southern tip of the Balkan Peninsula). So whether you’re a luxury vacationer, or looking to trace the path of Homer and Plato, there are cheap holidays for the Philosophers, spenders, and of course, the backpackers. Just look into the flight prices/accommodations and you’ll see!

Ideal weather

Owing to the country’s location in southern Europe, Greece’s favorable climate enables all tourists to have fun whatever time of the year they may choose to visit, regardless of the type of activity they may pick to engage in.

Delectable Greek gastronomy

It’s undeniable that one of the top reasons to visit Greece is for its mouth-watering cuisine. Greek food is healthy and the fare well-balance. In fact many diets are based upon the Greek way of eating, including the famous, Mediterranean diet. Dishes here are prepared meticulously and food is a way of life for the Greek people, and they are proud to share their centuries-perfected recipes with visitors.

World renowned capital city

You’re vacation to Greece would be deemed incomplete if you haven’t been to the wonderful city of Athens. Through the years, many tourists have been attracted to experience the capital city of Greece (and chances are you’ll probably fly in here as well). Just in 2005 alone, around 6 million tourists spent their holidays in the city. One of the most famous tourist attractions is Acropolis Hill which houses the Parthenon as well as the Temples of Nike and Erectheion.

These are just a few of the top reasons to visit Greece on your next great escape. You’ll just have to give it a chance to discover the rest! Bon Voyage!

 

 

Top Reasons To Visit The United States: America’s Best Aspects

If you are asking about the top reasons to visit The United States, then you’d be looking at a long list. There’s a reason why the United States is the most visited country in the world. And it’s not just because it is home to Hollywood stars. If you are among those people who are curious about what this country has to offer, here is a list of the most amazing features of America.

Best Place To VIsit In The United States

 1. Commerce and Shopping –The United States is the birthplace of many well-known brands and companies, in various industries. And they offer people not only impressive products and services to meet their wants and needs, but also abundant business opportunities. Some of the most powerful enterprises whose headquarters is found in America include Apple, Microsoft, Universal Studios, J. Crew, and Walmart to name a few.

2. Historical Sites – It may not be as ancient as Italy or England. But the country does house several monumental infrastructures and destinations that shaped the course of the world. There’s the town of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania where the great American Civil War had its turning point. And there’s the sites for the September 11 attacks, which scarred the world and launched one of the biggest wars in American history as well as precipitated one of its most depressing financial times.

3. Leisure Activities and Facilities – The country is also not lacking in places where people can have fun, cool down and have a relaxing time. For those who are young at heart, Anaheim’s Disneyland would certainly be a treat to visit. And those looking to let loose will be excited to step into the intriguing landscape of Las Vegas which offers non-stop entertainment from gaming to broadway-style shows. Holidays to Las Vegas are a must on an USA trip itinerary. In case you are interested in learning more about culture and art, you would certainly find the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City for a great addition to the top reasons to visit The United States.

4. Natural Wonders – Now in spite of its urbanized setting, there are still parts of the United States that make it an effortlessly beautiful destination. There are many locations including the Florida Keys, Denali National Park, and the Preserve of Alaska. We can also add in the Niagara falls, Yellowstone National Park, the Grand Canyon and the Hawaiian archipelago. If you decide to visit the Hawaiian archipelago you can choose to stay in the Maui Villas, which offer a variety of amenities..

These top reasons to visit The United States make just a small part of what people from here and who had been here would point out as relevant. Further research on the matter should enlighten you more on what this nation has to offer.

A guide to the top beaches in Karnataka

India’s home to some pretty spectacular beaches, but I think it’s fair to say that Goa is the destination that usually springs to mind when you mention beach breaks here. But there are plenty more options, including Kerala and Karnataka, and today I’m going to be focusing on the latter.

Now, whether you’re drawn to the idea of a relaxing beach holiday or you simply fancy having the option to hit the sand occasionally, location is all-important. I think that if you’re keen to find the perfect spot booking through a specialist tour operator (like TransIndus) is the best way to go, since they’ll be able to offer you expert advice that is hard to get at a more general travel agency.

Plus, doing so also gives you the freedom to pick from a selection of existing itineraries, group tours and trips tailor-made just for you. But, I’m not here to talk about holiday planning today, so let’s move on and take a look at some of the best beaches to visit in Karnataka.

sand beaches in India

Om Beach

Located just outside Gokarna is the lovely Om Beach, which is particularly charming thanks to its shape. You see, it’s formed of two semicircular coves that form an inverted Hindu symbol known as an om – and it’s this from which it takes its name.

This lovely beach is more than just a pretty face, though, since it’s a popular centre for water sports. So, if you want to do more than laze on the sand all day, this is bound to be the place for you. Water skiing, surfing and parasailing are just a few of the things you’ll be able to try.

Gokarna Beach

Also in Gokarna is Gokarna Beach, which is a little off the beaten tourist track. Thanks to its position near lots of local temples, it’s actually somewhere that’s more popular among pilgrims than tourists – though that’s not to say it’s not worth visiting. In fact, if you’re after somewhere that’s free of swathes of holidaymakers, this is a pretty reliable place to choose.

Murudeshwar Beach

Next up is Murudeshwar Beach, which is one of Karnataka’s best-loved stretches of sand. Like Gokarna Beach, it’s quite popular among pilgrims thanks to its proximity to a local temple (this one’s a pretty major pilgrimage site, which has helped make the beach as well-frequented as it is today), but it’s an equally big hit with holidaymakers.

Generally speaking it’s a decent spot for swimming, but I should warn you that the currents here can be strong from time to time – especially at high tide – so always check the conditions on the day and keep your eyes peeled for any warning signs.

Kaup Beach

If it’s a pristine, idyllic beach you’re after, Kaup is likely to impress. This unspoilt part of the coastline is around 12 km from Udupi (which is famous for the Krishna Temple) and is well known for its historic lighthouse.

This dates back to 1901 and opens to the public at select times of the day. Going inside is a nice way to add a little variety to your day, as well as sprinkle some culture into your beach break.

Maravanthe Beach

Last on my list is Maravanthe Beach, which is a prime destination if you like the sound of a little adventure below the waves. You see, this is one of the top local destinations for scuba diving and snorkelling, and the icing on the cake is that it’s wonderfully scenic.

In fact, it’s pretty impressive before you even get there – if you’re coming by road you get a great view on the approach, which includes the Kodachadri Hills and the Arabian Sea.

There you have it, some of the best beaches in India not to miss!

Beautiful, bright Bodrum, Turkey!

I’ve been going to Turkey for the last seven years, and I’ve watched it change as tourism has become big business over recent years. The number of visitors to this wonderful, mysterious country has increased dramatically, and Bodrum is one of those booming resorts.

Fantastic beaches, lively night-life, delicious restaurants, history, culture, and lots of shopping, all with the potential to explore further afield – it’s no wonder Bodrum is so popular.

beach in Bodrum, Turkey

There are some fantastic package holidays to Bodrum this summer, ranging from all-inclusive, half-board, full-board and self-catering. Personally, I tend to book self-catering, as there are some wonderful restaurants around and I enjoy the freedom to go where I please in the evening, however if you’re travelling with children, I’d recommend all-inclusive, to keep costs on holiday low.

Getting to the airport itself can be a hassle, and you’ll find that many flights to Turkey are at awkward times of the day from the UK. A great way to save money and combat stress is to pre-book Airport parking at your terminal, meaning no need to book an expensive airport taxi, and putting the control firmly back in your hands. You’ll find a service no matter where you fly from, and I recently used Stansted Airport parking at Airparks, with no complaints from me whatsoever! I’d highly recommend you look into what’s available from your airport.

Once you land at Bodrum Airport, it’s under an hour’s transfer to your hotel, depending on where you’re staying. It’s easy to get around resort, thanks to the handy dolmus, or mini-bus, running around resort, but Bodrum is quite compact, so I’d suggest a pair of comfortable flip flops and head out on foot and explore. The dolmus is invaluable for exploring the surrounding area, such as the nearby resort of Gumbet, with its wide beach and plentiful water-sports. Alternatively, haggle the price of your excursions from a street vendor and head out on a jeep safari into the surrounding countryside, through villages and hills. A boat trip is also a must-do excursion, as well as a traditional Turkish bath for that longer lasting tan.

In Bodrum itself, the castle should be your first port of call, stood imposing over the town. It also hosts the popular Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which is a surprisingly interesting morning or afternoon’s entertainment, and one the kids will love too.

For retail therapy hits, the marina has the best in terms of designer buys, however I love the markets for unusual souvenirs, and the haggling is fun once you get used to it.

As with most Turkish resorts, night-life is bright, vibrant and lively, yet also very varied. If you want to party, you’ll find plenty of clubs and bars, especially down on the water-front, yet if you just want a good meal and a few drinks, you’re more than catered for too. I’d really recommend trying some traditional Turkish cuisine, such as tasty chicken shish kebab, followed by some naughty-but-nice kunefe, and a glass of raki. Turkish food is cheap, plentiful and certainly delicious!

For a sunshine break with an added difference, Bodrum is a fantastic choice. Remember those airport extras and your holiday will not only be cheaper, but will start in a much more rested manner, without the stress of the airport marring the start of your break. You’re not forgotten in the parking stakes no matter you fly from, with services such as Luton Airport parking fantastic value for money.

Sunshine is a given, a great holiday is guaranteed – head to Bodrum this summer.

This was a guest post from Michelle Camens