Saturday, October 3, 2009

The Hotel Aux Trois Portes, A Favorite Paris Boutique Hotel

By Jeremy Stevens

In the center of Paris, you will find the Aux Trois Portis. It is because of its central location that this hotel becomes one that is convenient to stay in when you visit the great city of Paris.

You can expect all of the conveniences of any 5 star hotel during your stay here, and you will find that they have available rooms for non-smoking patrons, the daily paper delivered to your room, hair dryers, ironing boards and other such furnishings.

Services offered include round the clock room service, bar/Pub, restaurants, safety deposit box, business center and many more. Pets are allowed on the hotel premises, while the hotel goes to great lengths to ensure that all guests are taken care of to their satisfaction.

Because of its location, which is very close to the historical areas of Bastille and Marais, trains stations and the Seine river it is very easy to enjoy Paris nightlife.

They observe policies typical of most hotels, which may vary based on the types of rooms available for the guest. The checking in and checkout time is twenty fours respectively, and reservation cancellations at least 24 hours in advance will incur no cancellation fees. Failure to cancel later than that or to simply not show up will result in fees being assessed.

If for some reason you find that your plans have changed, there is no problem when you cancel your reservation at least 24 hours in advance of the arrival date, otherwise, there is a cancellation fee that will be charged for the room.

All children are welcomed by the hotel with those under 4 years old receiving free stay when they use existing bedding. Children 2 years or younger will receive free additional bedding and a cot, but a request must be made to and approved by the hotel manager in order for the additional bedding to be given. Additional bedding is limited to one additional set. All major credit cards are accepted at this hotel, so there will be no issues when it comes time to pay the bill.

Additional adults are permitted in the rooms as well, but there is an additional fee incurred, and the same policy applies to children older than 4 years old. Aux Trois Portes is a favorite among its many guests, and the location is advantageous. It is surely one of the better located cheap Paris hotels. There is a need of some minor renovations but the hotel is well-kept. The staff is very courteous and that will keep this hotel in business for a long time onwards.

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Friday, October 2, 2009

Experience Aboriginal Australia

By Jennifer Schellington

If you are planning a trip to Australia then you really should ensure you experience some Aboriginal Culture.

Aboriginal (or Aborigine) means Indigenous to Australia. They were the sole inhabiters of Australia before it was occupied by the British and other Europeans

It is estimated that before the colonisation of Australia there were more than 300,000 Aborigines. The European settlers brought with them old world diseases that wiped out thousands of the Aborigines. On top of that, the laws gave them no claim to the land which pushed the Aborigines out.

These days, there is only a very small percentage of the population that is Aboriginal (3%) Many have health problems or alcohol related problems. There are however still areas within Australia where Aboriginals abide by their old values and beliefs and it is a wonderful experience to spend some time with them. Sacred places such as Ayers Rock are steeped in Aboriginal tradition and as such are a good place to uncover the Aboriginal belief system.

Aboriginal Culture is complex with many beliefs and hidden layers to explore. Music and Art are however the most well known aspects. Did you know that the Didgeridoo is only used by those from the East? It is the clapping sticks which are more widely used by the Aboriginals.

Rock Art is the oldest of the Aboriginal Arts and can be found in places such as Ayers Rock and Kakadu National Parks as these are sacred Aboriginal lands. It is the dot paintings that are particularly popular with tourists and these are generally easy to find throughout Australia.

Where To Experience Aboriginal Australia

There are lots of places you can go to learn about the Aboriginal Culture. There is not room in this article to explore them all. Arnhem Land which is near Darwin in the top end of Australia is in my opinion the best place to go. Numbers are restricted to this sacred area so you can guarantee a less touristy approach. You really do get to appreciate the real culture and see real Aboriginals dot painting and making crafts. You can easily incorporate a day trip here as part of your trip to Darwin or Kakadu National Park and I highly recommend it. Remember that this area has defined seasons so only come here between May and October.

If Darwin is not on your to do list then consider an Aboriginal experience in one of the more visited areas such as Sydney. Two of the best experiences are The Blue Mountains Walkabout Tour or The Rocks Half Day Dreaming Tour. The second is taken by an Aboriginal Elder called Margaret Campbell and the tour is authentic and very interesting.

A trip to Australia just isn't complete without an understanding of this spiritual race.

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Ireland Golf

By Richard E Baly

There are thousands of people all around the world who are wanting to take a vacation sometime in the near future. There are many people who wish to play golf during their trips. There are many different golf destinations that you have to choose from including Ireland which is one of the greatest golf destinations in the world. Ireland is filled with over three hundred golf courses. There are several renowned course scattered throughout Ireland.

There are several renowned golf courses scattered throughout Ireland. One of those golf courses which is located in Ballybunion, Co. Kerry, Ireland is the Ballybunion Golf Club. The golf course was founded 1893. Tom Watson is the designed of the course which consist of six hundred and thirty eight yards. This course is a seventy one part course. The golf course is a very popular golf destination for golf enthusiasts all around the world. It is also one of the top ten golf courses in the world.

Located in Drogheda, Ireland is the Baltary Golf Club which is one of the most popular golf courses in all of the Ireland. The course is extremely popular among the locals. This course was founded in 1892 but the layout was changed in 1938. This golf course was designed by Tom Simpson. This golf course is a seventy three par course that consists of seven thousand and thirty one yards. The golf course can be found five miles north of Dublin and just five miles northeast of Drogheda.

Ireland also has the Castlerock Golf Club which is located in Castlerock, Co. Derry, Ireland. The golf course was founded in 1901. The course was designed by Harry Colt and Ben Sayers. The seventy three par course spans an area of six thousand seven hundred and forty seven yards in all. This golf course is found just a few minutes away from Portstewart and Royal Portrush. This is one of the most classic courses in all of Ireland which sits amid towering dunes.

Founded in 1993 is the European Golf Club which is one of the newest courses in all of Ireland. Pat Ruddy designed the course which is located in Brittas Bay, Co. Wicklow, Ireland. The course is a seventy one par course and spans an area of seven thousand one hundred and forty nine total yards. This golf course has become extremely popular in a short period of time. It is one of the finest links golf courses in all of Ireland.

The Old Head of Kinsale Golf Club is one of the newest golf courses in all of Ireland begin founded in 1997. The golf course which is located in Old Head, Kinsale, Co. Cork, Ireland was designed by J. Carr, R. Kirby, P. Merrigan and E. Hackett. The entire seventy two par course consists of seven thousand one hundred and twenty one yards. The golf course is considered by many one of the most remarkable developments ever created in the history of golf.

The Royal Dublin Golf Club is a seven two par course that was founded in 1889. The course which consists of seven thousand three hundred and ten yards was designed by H.S. Colt. This is the second oldest golf course in all of Ireland. It is also among the list of the greatest Irish links courses. The course is located in Dollymount just about five miles northeast of Dublin City on the costal road to Howth.

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Parks to See on the Sunshine Coast

By Zane Archer

While visiting the Sunshine Coast there are many parks, both education and artsy, that are fun for the whole family. These parks may not have all the thrills and rides that you would find in the Gold Coast, but they will still provide you with a day full of entertainment.

Here are some of the Sunshine Coast parks, that will be worth visiting while on your holiday.

Castle at Bli Bli: Come and partake in all this ancient medieval dwelling, equipped with its very own torture chamber, medieval armor and dancing dolls from all different regions of the world. Come and explore the dungeon and check out the ancient displays of fairy stories loaded with artifacts. Be sure to make your way up into the towers of this amazing structure, for some of the most incredible views of the countryside and the cane fields below. A day chocked full of fun, activities and history, the Sunshine Castle at Bli Bli is a true adventure.

One of the most popular tourist attraction in the Sunshine Coast is Aussie World. Aussie World is free to enter and is home to some of the best dining and shopping opportunities, Australian style. Ettamogah Pub, is based on a famous Australian comic and offers exceptional dining and live entertainment. There's a Kid's Room to keep the little one's happy while parents enjoy a snack or meal.

Underwater World Mooloolaba is a journey to another world as you are swept over four thrilling interactive levels. While here you get a chance to walk through underwater tunnels, where you can observe sharks, crocodiles, stingrays and whales in their natural habitat. While there you will be taken on an interactive journey from land to deep sea featuring the worlds largest marine, land and migratory crab species in one of the largest themed exhibits ever. So there is no need to snorkel or scuba, while at Underwater World, as you can walk right up to everything you want to see.

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A Wonderful Piece From The Past Is Forever In The Illustrious Arc De Triomphe Paris

By Michael Boxer

If you are in love, Paris is the place to be with your lover. This popular tourist destination is famous for its romantic ambiance. You can experience romanticism everywhere you go. For example, you can take a stroll along the river Seine where you may want to stop for coffee and croissant while observing all the beauty the city of Paris has to offer. Its culture and architecture won't leave you indifferent. The Eiffel tower, Opera Garnier and the Louvre museum are but a few places that will be etched in your memory forever.

Among the myriad of attractions are the world famous Eiffel tower, the monumental masterpiece Notre-Dame-de-Paris and a long list which follows. Among all the exclusively attractive architectural gems of Paris, the Arc de Triomphe de l'Etoile is one place worth mentioning. Owing to its breathtaking architecture, this place is known to be the largest triumphal arch.

If you want a spectacular view of Paris, go to the top of the Arc de Triomphe. Since it is located at the highest point of Chaillot hill, there is no better place to be to take in the city's beauty. The monument itself is the center of several avenues that form a star. It is situated on the west side of the Champs-Elysees.

This magnificent monument was commissioned at the beginning 1800s by Emperor Napoleon. He wanted to immortalize the victory of his men by building a colossal monument rising up to 162 feet. This arch is decorated by various sculptures from different French sculptors. Naturally, the arch is strongly associated with political manifestations, representing the love for France and the willingness to sacrifice for it.

The physical description of the arch takes us to the time of French victory over numerous provinces. At the foundation of its four massive pillars, reminiscing the victory of 1810 (by Cortot); Resistance, and Peace (both by Etex); and The Departure of the Volunteers, more commonly known as La Marseillaise (by Francois Rude).

No visitor can stay indifferent in front of such a majestic monument. Important victories were immortalized at the top of the arch with engravings of such victories from the times of Napoleon and the Revolution.

If Paris is a dream city for those with an eye for history and romance, the arch here is a must-visit for all. Looking through some Arc de Triomphe Photos, the ineffable charm of Paris remains unsung. You will be lost in the world of art and architecture as every small piece of architecture is captivating. Whether you are a fan of the Da Vinci phenomenon or not, the monuments themselves will guide you through the places in the book and let you engross in the book's mood.

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4 Lesser Known Cities You Cannot Miss When Traveling In Europe

By Morten Elm

There are 50 countries in Europe " so you cannot visit all of them on a trip to Europe (unless you have several months). Instead you should focus your energy on a few large cities. In the following you can read about 4 cities in 4 countries, which have unique sights, food and/or nightlife.

Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Are you looking for a city with a very liberal minded look at hashish and sex? Then Amsterdam is the place for you. In the so-called coffeeshops you can buy hash and around the corner in the Red Light District you find women in all nationalities and sizes.

If you are more into art, Amsterdam is also the place to go. Here you can find great paintings by Van Gogh and Rembrandt. Or you can visit the fantastic Anne Frank House, which is known from the famous Anne Franks Diary.

Barcelona, Spain. The capital of Spain is Madrid " but the most interesting city is without doubt Barcelona. The city has everything: great food, interesting sights and a very fine nightlife. And then there is FC Barcelona " the famous football club with the amazing stadium Camp Nou.

If you only have time for one sight, it should be the unfinished cathedral Sagrada Famlia by Antoni Gaud. Or you can take a relaxing stroll down the La Rambla to Barceloneta, where you can find great seafood and tapas.

Budapest, Hungary. The Danube (known from the famous The Blue Danube waltz by Johan Strauss) divides Budapest in two: the hilly Buda on the left and the flat Pest on the right. The sightseeing should be focused on the Castle Hill in Buda and the central part of Pest, where the greatest sights are found.

Must see sights are the Royal Palace and the National Gallery. The large parks on Margaret Island are a pleasant place to relax and wander in the afternoon. The best shops are found in Vci Street and in Westend City Center " the largest shopping centre in Central Europe.

Prague, the Czech Republic. If you need a cheap vacation, Prague could be the place to go. Even though the prices have gone up since the Cold War, you can still find cheap accommodation and eating in Prague.

But the best part is the many great sights. Start your visit in the Star Mesto, the old part of Prague, with the famous Astronomical Clock. Then follow the Charles Bridge (where you can buy paintings and souvenir) to the other side of the Vltava River. Here you find the Prague Castle - the biggest ancient castle in the world. Other places to visit are the historical Jewish ghetto Josefov, the Kafka Museum and the Jewish Museum.

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Thursday, October 1, 2009

Planning A Gay Vacation to Hawaii

By Howie Holben

Hawaii provides a pristine paradise that attracts travelers from across the globe to its many-colored picturesque beaches. Because of a welcoming, warm population and a blend of Polynesian, Asian and white European cultures, this island paradise has long been a popular travel destination for both straight and gay vacations. The LGBT community in Hawaii is relatively low-key and not entirely outwardly visible, but a gay travel participant will find a welcoming level of acceptance that has come about, in part, from many generations of varied cultures living together with no specific dominant religious or cultural influence as an overriding factor.

Oahu is the third largest island in size, but is home to 70% of the states population, as well as the state capitol, Honolulu, and the popular tourist area, Waikiki. When visiting Oahu on gay holidays, travelers will not want to miss the LGBT-friendly La Cucaracha where authentic Mexican food, great music and delicious margaritas are always on the menu. Those who want to check out Oahus scene should check out 80% Straight Inc., a community clothing, book and novelty store located in the Waikiki Grand, and the handful of bars and clubs on the island, including Angles Waikiki, Fusion Waikiki, In-Between and Hulas Bar & Lei Stand. Beach goers will find a warm welcome at Queens Surf beach and near the lighthouse at Diamond Head.

Those who choose a gay tour to Maui might not find a vibrant scene, other than a small area of Little Beach in Makena, but exploring quaint villages, watching the sunset atop Mount Haleakala and sunbathing near waterfalls all make Maui an enticing locale for gay travel retreats. If exploring what is considered the most tropical and scenic island of them all is part of your plans, Kauai is sure to deliver no matter what time of year you visit. Kauai is home to a clothing optional LGBT-friendly bed and breakfast, as well as an LGBT-owned villa with a Japanese flair and a clothing optional lagoon pool, and is an ideal setting for exploring waterfalls, amazing cliffs and vast canyons.

The Big Island also has a number of friendly lodging options, one LGBT bar and several friendly restaurants and businesses. Gay vacations on the Big Island can include exploring an active volcano, walking on black sand beaches, trekking through a rain forest or standing in awe of the snow on Mauna Kea.

Hawaii is the most remote chain of islands anywhere in the world and is a tropical paradise that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. In a single trip to Hawaii you can snorkel or scuba dive around coral reefs, tour a pineapple farm, visit a volcano, learn the hula, participate in a luau and ride on horseback along black sand beaches. To take full advantage of all that Hawaii offers, consider visiting Hawaii with a gay holidays tour, or arranging your trip through a travel agency accustomed to organizing Hawaii gay travel.

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