There are many great ways to travel. What most people choose depends on how much money they have to spend and also about how they feel most comfortable. Flying is the fastest way to get somewhere, but people have mixed feelings about flying at times. Trains are great, and can be very fast, but not everyone is near train service. Driving is okay for some people, but others think the last thing they want to do on a vacation is a lot of driving. If you want to see the sights in a different manner without flying, think about finding a great bus tour going to a number of fun locations.
There are many types of bus tour that you can take. One is a specialty trip. You can either book one of these on your own, or sign up for one that is already going to a particular destination. These trips are often day trips, or they may include a night stop somewhere. This type of bus tour will go to one destination, perhaps a ballgame in a nearby city, or perhaps for a shopping excursion in NYC, if you live near that area. These are often sponsored by someone in hopes the bus fills up. If you have a large group that wants to go, you can always book these buses on your own for the right price.
Other types of bus tour have longer routes so that you can see many different sights at once, and may go for a few days to even a week. These may snake around one state or one region within the US. This allows you to see the attractions near you that you may not have had time to see just yet, and you can go in a loop so that your vacation is all planned out for you. You won't have to worry about where to go or how to get home because the entire trip is planned from home when you leave and then back to home when you the bus tour is over.
A one way bus tour is an option as well. These can be non-stop, but some offer a few hours layover in specific areas as you go. This is a harder way to have a vacation because the time in each stop is limited and it may not be enough for you to enjoy that area. Instead, this type of bus tour is great when you want to go far from home for a stay somewhere, and then turn around in a week to come back home without worrying about flying or driving your own car. Look over the tour itinerary closely to see where you are going and how long your stop overs may be.
Once you have chosen the bus tour that suits you the best, pack accordingly. If you are going on a long trip without any companions, take books and other personal items to keep you occupied on the bus. You may want to see the sights outside the window, but you may also want to read. If you are going with a group, you may not need these things, though everyone needs some downtime. Don't forget to take plenty of drink and food with you and leave your bus tour trip schedule with someone so your family knows where you are and when you should be back, just as you would with any trip.
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Barbados Destinations Guide
Tourists pour into Barbados from all over the world, drawn by the delightful climate, the big blue sea and brilliant white sandy beaches. Many of them rarely stray far from their hotels and guesthouses, but those who make an effort find a proud island scattered with an impressive range of historic sites
For more than three centuries Barbados was a British colony and retains something of a British feel: the place names, the cricket, horse-racing and polo, Anglican parish churches, and even a hilly district known as Scotland.
The people of Barbados, known as Bajans , take great pride in their tiny island of 430 square kilometres
Tourism plays a major part in the country's economy and revenues have been put to good use. The infrastructure and public transport are first-rate and there is no sign of the poverty that continues to bedevil some Caribbean islands.\
Where to go
Chief among the island's attractions are its old plantation houses - places like St Nicholas Abbey and Francia , superb botanical gardens at Andromeda and the Flower Forest , and the military forts and signal stations at Gun Hill and Grenade Hall . The capital, Bridgetown , is a lively place to visit, with an excellent national museum and great nightlife in its bars and clubs
When to go
For many visitors, Barbados's tropical climate is its leading attraction - hot and sunny year-round. The weather is best, however, during the high season, from mid-December to mid-April, with rainfall low and the heat tempered by cooling trade winds. The peak season also brings the biggest crowds and the highest prices.
Getting around
The bus system in Barbados is excellent, with blue government buses and yellow, privately owned minibuses running all over the island. Fares are a flat rate of B$1.50. Buses run roughly every half-hour between Grantley Adams International Airport and Bridgetown, stopping at or near most of the south coast resorts en route. Services to the resorts on the west coast are less frequent.
Food & Drink
Fresh seafood is the island's speciality: snapper, barracuda and dolphin fish, as well as fresh prawns and lobster. Most popular of all is the flying fish - virtually a Bajan national emblem.
For snacks , you'll find cutters (bread rolls with a meat or cheese filling), coconut bread, and more substantial rotis (flat, unleavened bread wrapped around a filling of curried meat or vegetables); all are widely available.
Rum is the liquor of choice for many Bajans. Hundreds of tiny rum bars dot the island, which are an integral part of Bajan social life. On the coast, you'll find fewer places that cater specifically to drinkers but, all-inclusives apart, most hotels and restaurants will welcome you for a drink even if you're not staying or eating.
Barbados Destinations Guide
Cyprus Destinations Guide
Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and attracts millions of tourists every year. Its historic ties with the United Kingdom make it a strong favourite among British holiday makers.
The charms of Cyprus are many and varied. For a start the weather is sunny and dry for most of the year, and the encircling sea is blue, clear and enticing. There are modern luxury hotels in the coastal resort towns, historic restored city precincts to explore, tavernas and nightlife aplenty. Cyprus has remote picturesque mountain villages and monasteries, beautiful churches, Crusader castles and fascinating museums. The local people are extremely welcoming of tourists, happy to share with them their innate love of life and camaraderie. In Cyprus it is possible to mingle with crowds, or seek isolation off the beaten track as the mood takes, even in peak holiday season. For this reason the island is also a favoured destination for honeymooners, a reputation enhanced by the fact that legend has it that Cyprus was where Aphrodite, Greek goddess of love, rose from the sea.
Climate
Cyprus destinations guide enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with abundant sunshine year round. Long dry summers and mild winters are separated by short autumn and spring seasons. Summer is a time of high temperatures with cloudless skies, but the sea breeze creates a pleasant atmosphere in the coastal areas. Winters are mild, with some rain and snow on Troodos Mountains.
Paphos
Capital of the west and positively teeming with history is Paphos, site of the island's second international airport. The resort town has as its focal point a charming fishing harbour by Paphos Fort, lined with open-air cafes and tavernas that serve a tempting menu of the day.
It was on Paphos shoreline that the mythological Goddess Aphrodite was born, a legend that spawned a massive wave of cult worship from neighbouring countries that lasted several centuries. The large rock that juts from the sea is known as 'Petra tou Romiou' - The Venus Rock - while the Baths of Aphrodite at Polis also echoes her apparent penchant for the island. At Palaepaphos, Kouklia lie the remains of the Goddess' earliest Sanctuary.
Another 'first' for Paphos was its early recognition of Christianity. While under Roman rule in 45 A.D., it was here that Saint Paul converted the first ruler to the faith.
The legacy from its remarkable history adds up to nothing less than an open museum. Among the treasures are the remarkable mosaics in the Houses of Dionysos, Theseus and Aion, beautifully preserved after 16 centuries under the soil. Then there are the mysterious vaults and caves, the Tombs of the Kings, the Pillar to which Saint Paul was allegedly tied and whipped, the ancient Odeon Theatre and other places of interest including the Byzantine Museum and the its Archaeological Museum
Larnaca town (Larnaka)
Larnaca, a town with an easy-going pace, has strong links to the past. In the heart of modern Larnaca one finds remains of the ancient city-kingdom of Kition, reminiscent of its glorious days. The Mycenaean Greeks fortified the town with cyclopean walls in the 12th century while the Phoenicians founded a powerful kingdom here in the 9th century. Kition is the birthplace of the philosopher Zeno, founder of the Stoic School, and it is here that Saint Lazarus came to live after his resurrection. In the 18th century it became a commercial centre and seat of the European consulates. The delightful Palm Trees Promenade, its fort, and its old quarters give Larnaka its unique character. The nearby salt lake is a favourite stop-over spot for thousands of migrant birds in winter, whilst on its edge in a tranquil setting stands a popular Muslim pilgrimage place.
The whole district of Larnaca has something special to offer the visitor, including Choirokoitia, the oldest Neolithic settlement on the island, Slavrovouni Monastery and the famous Church of Angeloktisti.
Limassol town
Successor to two city-kingdoms and host to a Royal Wedding in the Middle Ages, contemporary Limassol (Lemesos) stretches along the south coast. Proud of the spontaneous hospitality of its people, its archaeological sites, its mediaeval castles and its merry Carnival and Wine festivals, Lemesos is the island's most important tourist and wine industry centre. Hotels, restaurants and night spots abound along the beach whilst close by lie the pine-clad southern slopes of Troodos with the picturesque wine producing villages, the idyllic mountain resorts and the picturesque Pitsylia area.
Ayia Napa (Agia Napa)
The popular holiday resorts of Ayia Napa and Paralimni have been called a veritable paradise for anyone who loves the sea and water sports. The charming scenery includes the tiny fishing harbour of Ayia Napa, the mediaeval monastery at the heart of the village and the windmills and small churches in the surrounding villages which spread out to the areas of Paralimni and Protaras. This region is the main potato producing area on the island, and is known as "Kokkinochoria' which means 'red soil villages'. The villages of this area are equally known for their folk poets, who are regarded as the best on the island.
Culture, diversity, size, speed and energy of this place can even overwhelm residents here at times! Plan your New York vacation well - it’s better to carefully select beforehand a few must-sees, and wrap them around a nice dinner to round your day out.
Let’s look at some basic need to know information first, and then some fun things to do on a New York romantic weekend getaway.
Traveling to New York is quite easy, as many major airlines fly into New York. If you're looking for cheap flights to New York, check out our links page under Airlines.
New York City has 2 major airports, John F. Kennedy International and La Guardia. A third major airport is just across the Hudson River in Newark, New Jersey. All 3 have frequent shuttle bus and taxi service.
At Kennedy Airport, you can access the subway into Manhattan by first getting on the Long Term Parking Lot Bus which makes a stop at the Howard Beach Subway Station. Take the A-Train from there into town.
How To Get Around New York
If you’re thinking about renting a car as part of a New York vacation package, can I just say one thing: DON'T! It’s not worth the cost, traffic, parking problems and general hassle. The best way to get around this city are: Subway, Taxi, Bus and walking.
The subway is fast, convenient, and the lines and stations are numerous. Even though the subway map looks like a plate of spaghetti, it’s all color-coded, so you’ll understand it pretty quick. And it’s generally very safe – just use a little common sense, like not flashing around wallets and purses with large amounts of money.
The MetroCard is a good deal and gives you unlimited rides on the whole underground and bus system for $7. Buy them at vending machines and corner stores. If you’re out very late you may be more comfortable with a taxi home, which are easy to find and quite reliable.
One of the best things about New York is that it’s a superb walking city! Many great sights, shops and restaurants in Manhattan can be found on foot.
Best Areas to Stay in New York holiday guide
On a short New York vacation package, the most popular areas with the best choices are in: Midtown Manhattan including Times Square, Upper West Side, and Upper East Side.
Chelsea and Gramercy Park are also possibilities, loaded with cafes, shops and art galleries. Lower Manhattan is the financial district and there’s not much happening after dark. Soho and Greenwich Village tend to be more towards the funky and alternative side.
Romantic Things to Do and See
Too many to list them all, so here are just a few...
A romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park is a wonderful cozy way to see this magical part of New York. Cost is approx $35. You can find them on the southeast corner of the park at Central Park West (59th St.) between 5th & 6th Ave. Don’t forget to ask for a blanket if it’s cold!
If it’s winter, skate romantically arm in arm on the ice rink at Rockefeller Center.
Wait till dark, and then see the neon lights and huge billboards of Times Square. You’re close to Broadway, where you can catch a first run play or musical. Many fine places to dine here too.
A great romantic tip are the views of the city while you’re holding hands: sky high from the observation deck of the Empire State Building, or from a casual walk across the Brooklyn Bridge – one of the most gorgeous structures in the city.
The Staten Island Ferry is one of travel's greatest FREE deals! Make your way down to Battery Park, and set sail for the ride past the Statue Of Liberty and see awesome views of Lower Manhattan. Pack a little lunch and find a quiet corner of the boat for a romantic picnic at sea!
One of the most romantic inns in NYC... the West 11th Townhouse.See it here.
Just spend a few hours wandering through the tree-lined streets of Greenwich Village, a neighborhood full of galleries, boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and all sorts of unique street culture.
Love classical music? Lincoln Center is home to the famous New York Philharmonic. Carnegie Hall also has great music.
There are two museums well worth including in your New York vacation package – the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Guggenheim. You’ll only scrape the surface on an afternoon or a day, but that saves some for next time…
Disneyland - Paris
Disneyland® Resort Paris
Only at Disneyland® Resort Paris can you experience the magic and enjoy a truly unique family getaway.
Be enchanted by Disneyland® Park and enjoy the sheer delight on your children's faces as they see their favourite Disney Characters. Discover the magic behind the scenes at Walt Disney Studios® Park and let your imagination soar in the fascinating world of cinema, animation and television.
Revel in the excitement of Disney® Village with non-stop family entertainment. There really is something for everyone at Disneyland® Resort Paris from the thrill of high-speed roller-coasters, to a relaxing walk around Lake Disney®. Whatever your adventure, the magic is closer than you think!
Disney's Hotel Santa Fe®
Mexico and America join hands for a lively stay in the deep South West" .... Route 66 and the scenery of New Mexico are brought to life at the colourful Disney's Hotel Santa Fe® with its fusion of Indian, Mexican and American cultures.
Disney's Hotel Cheyenne®
Ride into the sunset, toward a boomtown in the Old West where Hollywood legends come to life. Inspired by Billy the Kid, this is a town where outlaws, cowboys and Indians stake their claim. Yes-sir-ee!
Disney's Sequoia Lodge®
Lying on the shores of Lake Disney® and surrounded by leafy trees you feel as if you are staying within a great American Redwood forest.
Disney's Newport Bay Club®
The impressive Disney’s Newport Bay Club® rises majestically over the shores of Lake Disney®. It has a bright and breezy nautical atmosphere, being decorated in the style of a turn of the century New England seaside resort.
Disney's Hotel New York®
Reminiscent of the 'Big Apple’, Disney’s Hotel New York® is built in the style of a series of Midtown skyscrapers alongside typical New York brownstone and Gramercy Park houses.
Disneyland® Hotel
The story goes that at the end of each railway line a smart hotel would be built and a town would spring up around it. True to the tale, the Disneyland® Hotel is situated alongside the station overlooking Main Street, U.S.A.
Disney’s Davy Crockett Ranch®
If you enjoy the simple outdoor life with lots of activities try the wilderness escape of Disney’s Davy Crockett Ranch®. Situated just 15 minutes drive from the Disney Parks.
City Breaks - London
London is an amazing place to visit and if you are planning a trip you should really be very excited to be going. There is so much to do and a lot you should see. Don't try and over do it. If you're only here for a couple of days just select the places you really want to see and spend enough time in each place.
With so much to see and do in the London area this can be an overwhelming question. It is difficult to pinpoint all the things you wish to do and see during your visit.
We have compiled a list of 10 attractions which should be of interest:
British Museum
Great Russell Street
London, WC1B 3DG United Kingdom
Phone: +44 0207 7323 8299
The British Museum is one of London’s top tourist attractions. It also offers quite a bit of information. It was built in 1753 and the Museum's distinctive Greek revivalist structure was built during the 19th century. It covers 14 acres of land with the exhibitions and admission is free for all
Tower of London
Tower Hill
London, EC3N 4AB United Kingdom
Phone: +44 20 7709 0765
The Tower of London is a place of past executions and 900 years of history. In those violent years it was used as a place of imprisonment. Crown Jewels is one of the famous attractions at this site and there are guided tours of the area available to see it.
Westminster Abbey
20 Dean's Yard
London, SW1P 3PA United Kingdom
Phone: +44 20 7222 5152
At Westminster Abbey it is famous for being an architectural wonder of the world and it is absolutely breathtaking. The place for the country’s coronations since 1066 and for numerous other Royal occasions this is a masterful work of art and at present, it still is a church with regular service hours.
Houses of Parliament
Westminster
London, SW1A OAA United Kingdom
Phone: +44 20 7219 4272
House of Parliament for 900 years has been the home to the English government. Inside its massive walls are 1,100 rooms, 100 staircases and11 courtyards and it houses Westminster Hall, the Crypt Church, Members' Lobby, the Commons Library and the Peers Library. Outside in the tower is Big Ben a most celebrated structure.
Science Museum
Exhibition Road
South Kensington
London, SW7 2DD United Kingdom
Phone: +44 870 870 4868
The Science Museum offers a glimpse into the future as well as the latest technology. Interactive exhibits and audience participation shows make this a fine day of events and entertainment. It is fun for the whole group and make a day out of this fine experience with shops and dining places also.
Tower Bridge
Tower Hill
London, SE1 2UP United Kingdom
Phone: +44 20 7403 3761
The Tower Bridge is known around the world and is famous as being one of the most visited bridges in all of history. It opened in 1894 and has excellent views of the Tower of London and of river life on the Thames. A tremendous exhibit awaits you at this site.
Madame Tussaud's
Marylebone Road
London, NW1 5LR United Kingdom
Phone: 0870 400 3000
Madame Tussaud’s is the famous waxworks and was started by Madame Tussaud in 1835. She used to make making death masks during the French Revolution. Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette are displayed beside the actual blade that beheaded them and that is just a few of the fantastic sights you will see when you visit here.
Windsor Castle
Windsor
Berkshire, SR4 1NJ United Kingdom
Phone: +44 1753 869 898
The Windsor Castle is the home of the State Apartments, the St George's Chapel, the Gallery and the delightful Queen Mary's Dolls' House. This is an awesome and enormous site and it gets very many visitors at all times. Leave time to see how the British monarchy live in this fantastic site.
Kensington Palace
Kensington Gardens (off High Street Kensington)
London, W8 4PX United Kingdom
Phone: +44 20 7937 9561
Kensington Palace is where the Queen Victoria was born in 1819, and Princess Margaret and other royals still live in it. Kensington Palace was the London residence of the late Diana, Princess of Wales. Please make every effort to pay a visit to this attraction and share tea and lunch in the Orangery room weather permitting.
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace Road
London, SW1A 1AA United Kingdom
Phone: +44 20 7321 2233
The Buckingham Palace is the home of the British royalty since 1837. The changing of the guard is tourist attraction that you must see. See the Queen’s horse and stables in the Mews and walk the fascinating grounds. This is where it all happens in the home of the royals.
