Things to Do and See When Visiting Fiji

If you want a relaxing island vacation, Fiji is an answer to your question. Fiji, sometimes called as the Islands of Fiji is a Melanesian country in the South Pacific Ocean. There are some reasons why tourists from different parts of the globe are visiting this country. Considering Fiji weather, this is not the main concern. Since it is located in the equator, thus having a tropical weather , Fiji tends to remain warm throughout the year. Temperature on elevated areas gets lower especially during the night. The beautiful beaches and clearest and warmest ocean waters can be experience there. Its majestic and ever-varied coral reefs today draw tourists from around the world. Fiji is a land of tropical rainforests, coconut plantations, fine beaches and fire-cleared hills.

Nadi for example is the main destination of many tourists in Fiji. It is a thriving community with many things to explore and experience. Guests and tourists can get all the resources they need to explore including lots of activities, trips and tours. Here you can also find lodging, hotels and resorts that best fit you pocket and needs.

Suva, the capital city of Fiji is also worth for a trip. There are a lot to do and experience here. You can have a lot of outdoor adventure activities in Kila World. The Fiji museum is also a must especially if you want to see the exhibits which include items from archeological digs that date back over 3000 years.

How about exploring the islands of Mamanuca? Here you can do some water outdoor activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing or some exciting fishing adventure on its deep seas. Swimming in its warm, crystal clear waters or sunbathing on its gorgeous beaches while feeling the gentle breezes of the air..these are just relaxing moments during your vacation.

Try to find which places or islands in Fiji that interest you on your vacation. For sure, you will always have a satisfying and memorable holiday getaway in this warm country.

Los Angeles Visit- Things To Do and See

The city of Los Angeles, also known as the "City of Angels" is one of the most interesting cities not only in California but in the whole of United States as well. It is also the largest city in the state of California.

I am trying to remember our visit in this city last 2008. The Los Angeles weather that time was quite hot. It was during the month of June when we visited this city. It depends on what time of the year you want to visit LA, you can always enjoy it and there are always a lot of things to see and activities to do and experience in this world famous city.

Here are some of the few things you need to see and experience when visiting this world's famous entertainment center.

Visit to its Famous Museums and Galleries like The Getty Center or J. Paul Getty Museum (have very extensive arts collection and regarded as the finest museum in the USA), Los Angeles County Museum of Art (works of art that span both history and geography and also represents Los Angeles’ uniquely diverse population), Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), The Museum of Tolerance, Japanese American National Museum, are only some of its worth-to see ones.

Experience its historical sites. The historic center Los Angeles which is the Olvera Street, where the oldest building in the city is open to public. The mission which was established here, the Misión de la Nuestra Señora la Reina de Los Ángeles, known in English as the Mission of our Lady the Queen of the Angels, is where the city derives its name. Also visit the historic downtown site, the Union Station where the main railway hub for the city is located.

If you have much time, you can also go walking or hiking in Griffith Park, the second largest park within the city in the whole country and in LA. Other parks worth to see are the Exposition Park and the Mulholland Drive.

Shopping can be a great experience in LA. Always remember that this city has a well-known, diverse and unique shopping traditions and destinations. Shopping malls are everywhere. Among the few interesting ones are the Hollywood & Highland mall, Beverly Center, the Grove, Broadway in Downtown, Alvarado Blvd. and some other more. If you want to see some celebrities, Larchmont Blvd. especially in Melrose Avenue.

Hollywood Universal Studio, taken during our visit last June 2008. I miss this place.

If you still have the chance, you can experience Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California. A visit to Hollywood Universal Studios and window shopping in Universal Walk can also be a wonderful experience.

Norway Holiday- Interesting Cities To Visit

Norway is one of the three Scandinavian countries. It is not a member of the European Union countries but it is a member of the Schengen Agreement. This country is best known for its complex and deep fjords along its west coast. A holiday in Norway can be a promising experience not only for its amazing and varied scenery but each cities has its own stories to tell and share to its visitors.

Oslo, Norway

Oslo

Everytime I visit a certain country especially in Europe, my first target is always its capital city. That is why the first city I wish to visit in Norway is Oslo. It is the largest city of Norway and the third largest city of Scandinavia. This city rank among the most expensive city in the world but I am quite sure that you can always find here budget accommodation during your stay.

There are a lot of things to see and experience in Oslo. You might want to go for a walk in one of its park. A visit to its Royal Palace, the Oslo Cathedral, the University of Oslo and other interesting buildings and architecture here are recommended. This is a good news to all museum-lovers, visiting the museums in Oslo is free. Besides Oslo has a lot of interesting museums to visit. For sure, you will have a great time in this city.

Kristiansand

This city is called "the jolly capital of the South". Its nickname simply catch my attention. This city is sometimes called as Kristiansand S to distinguish Kristiansund in western Norway. S stands for South. I would love to experience the largest festival in Norway which is held in this city. It is called the Quart Festival, a multi-day music festival.

Bergen

Another wonderful city to visit is Bergen. It is very famous for its beautiful nature and lovely surroundings. A walk or a hike around the area will give its visitor an unforgettable adventure trip. There are a lot of attractions in this city. Pick the ones that you like most especially if you are only visiting it for a day or two.

Trondheim

Known as the oldest in all of Norway's major cities. It is both a cultural and heritage city. A visit to the marvelous Nidaros Cathedral is a must thing to do. It is considered to be the famous landmark of Trondheim and is the largest church of Northern Europe.

Sightseeing in England- Most Beautiful Gardens To Visit

Sprawled across England are some of the world's most spectacular designer gardens. From the centuries old to the modern to the otherworldly, these gardens are guaranteed to thrill seasoned gardeners to the average traveler alike.

If you are planning to visit Europe especially England, don't miss the chance to go to any of these gardens.


THE LOST GARDENS OF HELIGAN

Decades old and sadly forgotten after the Second World War, it was only in the last part of the 20th century that Heligan made its revival into the sprawling botanical gardens there today. Its 200 acres are divided into four parts; The Northern Gardens, the Jungle, the Wilder Estate, and Horsemoor Hide & Wildlife Project.

The Northern Gardens are the original gardens restored to their former glory and contain fruit, historic flowers, garden accessories, and a grotto hidden amongst the ferns. The Jungle section follows a raised boardwalk among ponds and tropical plants. Hidden in Wilder Estate are flocks of horn sheep, tranquil lakes, and sculptures hidden in the plant life. There is also a restaurant on the estate, meaning the Lost Gardens of Heligan is easily made into a day-long excursion.

SISSINGHURST CASTLE GARDEN

Well loved in the UK is Sissinghurst Castle Garden. Watched over by the National Trust, the garden is divided into enclosed sections or "rooms". The famous White room has all white flowers year round and in the distance you can see Sissinghurst Tower. Other areas include a rose, cottage, and herb garden in addition to the Orchard, the Lime Walk, and the Nuttery. Wandering through each cosy, enclosed room is a romantic, intimate experience.


LEVENS HALL

Levens Hall has the finest, and oldest, topiary in England. This award-winning garden has winding paths which are flanked by yew, box hedges, and flowers such as tulips. The trees are all cut into fantastic, painstakingly maintained shapes. On the estate are also an ornamental vegetable garden, a tea shop, a historic house open for viewing and worth a visit on its own, and a park dating back to medieval days that is home to black deer and a rare breed of horned goat. While the topiary garden is formal and clean cut, the park is undeniably about the beauty of pure nature and provides a pleasant contrast.

This list was gathered by the book experts from Love Reading site.

Bargain Hunters- Antique Fairs To Visit in Europe

For antiques bargain hunters, nothing beats an antique fair or market. With a little searching, some amazing treasures can be found at rock bottom prices. While London and Paris are considered Europe’s most important antique centers, markets can be found in cities large and small as well as in the countryside. Thanks to the antique experts from Lovereading.co.uk for sharing these famous antique fairs to visit in Europe.

TONGEREN

Tongeren, the oldest town in Belgium, is also home to the largest market in the Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg region. Located near the German and Dutch border in south-eastern Belgium, this market is known for having the best prices on French antiques in all of Europe. You can find there antique items of all sorts from home decorative figures to silverware, porcelains, artifacts and furniture. Open Saturday from 7:00am till noon.


L’ISLE-SUR-LA-SOURGE

Located in the provincial village of the same name in southern France, this market features over 300 permanent dealers with the number doubling with the visiting dealers every weekend. An international antique fair is held twice a year, in August and Easter, with dealers from around the world. L’Isle-Sur-La-Sourge is considered Europe’s third most important antiques center after London and Paris. Open every day during summer and Thursdays and Sundays during autumn, winter, and spring.

PORTOBELLO ROAD MARKET

The world’s largest antique market is the Portobello Road Market. Established in 1870, this Notting Hill, London market features a staggering variety of antiques and collectibles dating from Roman times to the 1960s, from antique silver, maps, crockery and fabrics. Antique hunters can feel confident when they shop here, as many vendors are certified by the Portobello Antique Dealers Association which requires traders to follow a strict code of conduct. Opening day is Saturdays.

MARCHÉ AUX PUCES ST-OUEN DE CLIGNANCOURT

With between 2500 and 3000 open stalls, this Paris market is the place to find everything from second hand clothing to the finest antiques. Some searching may be required but precious and rare items can be found amongst the typical flea market goods. Shoppers at this market will have the best luck if they make it clear they know what they’re doing and chat for a while with the vendor, preferable in French. Beware of pickpockets, take a break at one of the nearby cafes, and shop till you drop! Opening days are Saturday through Monday.

Unique Cities To Visit in Europe

Travelling is a passion and the one who get addicted will not let its charm get away. A traveler always wants to explore new places and for all of those, I to want to share my experience of Europe’s five most unique cities. All these cities has had a history of their own and their charisma asks you to keep visit them again and again.

the River Thames and the Big Ben and the Parliament in the background. taken during my visit last 2008.

London:

London is no doubt the heart of United Kingdom. If you are in Europe and not visited London then you have not seen anything in Europe. London a much vibrant place is a city where you can see people from almost every country. London will soon host the Olympic Games in 2012, so lots of development work is on these days. Madame Tussaud Museums, Thames River Cruise, London Eye, Windsor Castle, Westminster Abbey are some of the many attractions at London. London can mesmerize any one with its magic.

Paris:

Paris, the French capital is always known for great Eiffel Tower but there is lot more apart from that wonder of the world in this city. The question of what not to do in Paris is more important than what to do. The city offers so many attractions that they are even difficult to mention. Stay in an affordable hotel in Paris but make sure it’s in the center. A walk alongside River Seine, Disney land adventure, watching a Moulin Rouge show, visit to Notre Dame or just enjoying snacks at any road side café will definitely provides you the utmost pleasure. I recommend a Paris sightseeing tour if you want to see the best attractions that Paris has to offer. Don't miss to book in advance your budget accommodation in Paris. For sure you can find one, like what we did before.

rainy summer days in Paris during my second visit last August 2010.

Venice:

A European tour is incomplete without a trip to Venice. This Italian city is unique and one of its kind. Also known as ‘The Floating City’ or ‘City of Water’, Venice can easily be declared as the most romantic city of Europe. Beautiful Gothic style of architecture, its fashion galleries, music, art and cuisine thus everything is so special about Venice that one cannot afford to ignore this fantastic city.

Istanbul:

Istanbul, the Turkish delight is the gateway of Europe and is the only city in the world which is located in two continents i.e. Asia and Europe. The moment you stepped in Istanbul, you will mesmerized by the finest architecture on both sides of Bosphorus channel. This architecture gives you the glimpse of so many forms like Byzantine, Roman, Greek and of course Ottoman as Istanbul has seen all of these civilizations in different times. The Blue mosque, Topkapi, palace, Hagia Sophia, Galata Bridge, Grand Bazaar and Princess Island are some of the must visit places.

Barcelona:

It will be great if you end your European tour at Barcelona in Spain. Having a marvellous past this city enthrals you with its beautiful nights and bright sunny days. You can enjoy the Mediterranean climate at Barcelona which attracts sun-seekers from around the globe. Number of interesting festivals and events are on throughout the year at Barcelona which never let you weary. This city is full of life and colors and is known for his museums, Picasso’s paintings and many more.

Although the European continent has much more to offer but by visiting these cities you can feel the soul of the Europe. The joy which you get by having a Turkish Bath or by a quite walk at Champs Elysees Street in Paris is indescribable. Even visiting Piccadilly Circus at London or Barcelona’s old town will give you a life time experience.

I wish I am a travel reviewer expert but I am already happy and contented to share my travel experiences to everyone.

Experience European Jazz Festivals

Many jazz aficionados do not know that there are many jazz festivals taking place each year, in various European countries and towns. They are well-organized events that attract some of the best talents in the business.

The following are some of the best and most popular European live jazz festivals showcased across the region:

Varna Jazz Festival, Bulgaria

This festival was started in 1992 and it happens in Varna, which is a small city located in Bulgaria near the Black Sea. It is the largest Jazz festival in Bulgaria and it attracts talent mostly from around Europe. It takes place for 3 days and it is held in the courtyard of the Archeological museum. The director of this festival is a gentleman by the name of Anatoly Vapirov, who is also an accomplished saxophonist.


Ulrichsberger Kaleidophon, Austria

This town is located in Austria, near the Czech border. This jazz festival started in 1986 and has managed to become a highly acclaimed European Jazz festival. The focus of this festival is improvisation, at the same time this festival is also known for so called hybrid music. This would be jazz fused with other forms of music. The primary concerts are done at the Jazzatelier Ulrichsberg building, however there are other venues showcasing special music projects.

Vilnius Jazz Festival, Lithuania

Vilnius is a town situated in Lithuania and it started a jazz festival back in 1988. The first reason for starting this festival was an act of rebellion against the former Soviet Union. It was a way for Lithuania to show its differences with the Soviet Union. Even though this festival has political roots, it has grown to become an astounding jazz festival, attracting talent from all over the world. It is known for its highly creative and ambitious talents, stretching musical improvisation to its limits. This festival is ultimately linked to the growth of a distinctive style of jazz known as Vilnius jazz.

Konfrontationen Nickelsdorf, Austria

This jazz festival was started in 1980 in the town of Nickelsdorf which is located near the border of Hungary. Ever since this festival started it has attracted the top talents from America, Europe and Japan, making it a virtual Mecca for improvised jazz music. This place can be described as a small village and the festival takes place outdoors. It is organized by the Nickelsdorf Jazz Gallery.

Special thanks to the The Pen Company for this interesting travel information.

Typical Bristish Hotels You can Stay In

If you are planning for a Europe tour and want to travel to London or any area in England, you'll want to stay in a typically British hotel to really get the feel for British life, instead of a basic chain hotel. England is well known for its bed and breakfasts, which are usually small, cosy houses that only serve a handful of guests and offer them a home cooked breakfast.

buildings near James Palace in London. I guess that narrow building is the narrowest one in this city. taken during my visit last 2008.

There are also other hotels in England that have more of a traditionally British feel to them. London pr experts recommend the best hotels you can stay in to really get a taste of British culture:

1) Taplow House Hotel

At the Taplow House you'll find an absolutely stunning building, as well as tons of beautiful gardens and grounds. It is located near both London and Windsor, so you'll find plenty to do there. Berry's Restaurant is located inside the hotel for some great food, and well known restaurants and pubs are also abundant in the area.

2) The Macdonald Randolph Hotel

Visitors to Oxford will be amazed at luxurious accommodations they can find at the Randolph. They have great rooms, delicious food, and even a spa. It is also located right in the heart of Oxford, so you can simply walk out of your hotel and into the attractions of city life. And don't forget to go to their infamous afternoon tea.

3) Pelham Street Bed and Breakfast

This beautiful hotel was built in 1823 and is located in the South Kensington area of London, so there are many attractions and things to do right nearby, within walking distance. It has three rooms, giving the place a very intimate feel, and you also receive a free organic home cooked breakfast with your room.

taken in Canary Wharf, London during my visit three weeks vacation last 2008. There is a famous restaurant in this area now named Boisdale of Canary Wharf. I missed it during my visit in this area.

4) Marygreen Manor

Located in Brentwood, just outside of London, Marygreen Manor offers the vacation experience of a lifetime. It's a 4 star hotel dating all the way back to the Tudor period, as you may be able to tell from the architecture of the building. Although they have been around since the 16th century, you don't have to worry about not having all of the modern conveniences and luxuries. The rooms are quite comfortable and all of them have air conditioning and high speed internet access. In addition, Marygreen Manor has a garden and conservatory, where you can go for a stroll or enjoy some tea. They also have the Tudors Restaurant, for a delicious bite to eat.

5) Lainston House

This lovely 17th century house is right near Winchester, and only about an hour from London. In addition to great accommodations and high quality service, Lainston House is known for their food. They have hard working chefs that use all local produce and food items, and make everything from scratch.

Europe Tours 2011

Europe, Europa, this is one of the seven continents that I always wanted to explore. I believed most of you know that Europe is the second smallest continent in terms of surface area. That is also the reason why it is very easy to travel around its neighboring countries. I guess, I am very lucky to live somewhere in the middle part of Europe. That is also the reason why I can easily make some Europe tours when I can.

My Europe Tours for 2011 is still not over. Here are some of the places I visited and will be visiting this year. I love Europe!

Turkey

It is a Eurasian country. It simply means that part of it is located in Asia and in Europe. Turkey has a diverse culture which I find very interesting. It is also rich in historical architecture. It offers varieties and myriads of destinations to travelers from Roman ruins to beautiful coastlines and beaches, cold and snowy mountains are only some of it.

I just booked this trip last week. Istanbul, Pergamon, Ephesus, Trojan, Izmir, Bursa are only some of the places that we will be visiting. Three months more to go!

Monaco

It was another dream come true. I finally visited the second smallest country in the world. Monaco is such a lovely place. Monte Carlo, Monaco Ville and Fontvieille, I would say, are truly worthy to see. I can't forget that trip to Monaco last month.

Menton, Nice and Cannes in France

The highlight of that trip in Cannes was the meeting with my friend whom I did not see for more than a decade. I finally met her and I was very glad about that meeting. Nice and Cannes are both wonderful places. I wish I have more time to spend a day or two in its beautiful white sand beaches.

Menton is called as the "Pearl of France" while Cannes is famous for its annual international film festival. Nice on the other hand is simply nice and beautiful. I love the walk we had at Promenade des Anglais, its famous waterfront.

Promenade des Anglais in Nice, France. such a lovely beachfront! taken during our visit last April 16, 2011.

Berlin, Germany

I finally had the chance to visit the capital city of Germany. It is very ironic for me visiting other European capital cities first before Berlin. All I can say, Berlin has everything to offer to its tourists and visitors. I was there last February 2011. Seeing Berlin for three days is not enough. I wish I could stay there for a month or two.

at Gendarmenmarkt with the German cathedral. taken during my 3-day visit last Feb. 2011.

Boleslawiec, Poland

Called in German as Bunzlau, this place is famous for its handmade pottery. I really did not intend to buy ceramics during our visit there but I found their ceramics beautiful. I ended up buying it. I guess 5 boxes are enough. Boleslawiec is named as "Ceramics City" or Miasto Ceramiki due to its famous and traditional pottery making.

Budapest, Hungary

It is the capital of Hungary and also one of the interesting cities to visit in Europe. I would be happy to see there the Buda castle, Heroes' Square with the Millenary Monument, Széchenyi Chain Bridge, Parliament building of Hungary and so many more. I will be booking this trip very soon. The planned trip will be in August.

Cinque Terre, San Remo and Pietra Ligure in Italy

I also visited these places during my spring vacation last month. These places in Italy are simply amazing!

There are still other places and countries that I wish to visit this year, depending on my budget. This coming Saturday, we will have a trip to Dresden, a city in East Germany.

Turkey Sightseeing

Turkey is one of the countries I wish to visit this year. I find this country very interesting after reading a travel book about it. I also heard from friends who had spent holidays there, that it is truly a country worthy to see and to experience. My eagerness to visit it escalated when I found some cheap holidays online to Turkey. Imagine a 10-day trip for only 499.00 Euros including the flight, 4-star hotel, tours in different places, breakfast and dinner. I can hardly believed it.

Turkey is located in two continents, Europe and Asia. Sometimes, it is called a Euroasian country due to its geographical location. It is a country that has a lot to offer to travellers. Whether you want to spend a holiday on the beach, city break in Istanbul, do hiking and trekking in the mountains, skiing in Bursa, night life in Antalya, shopping to its bazaar or simply see its historical and architectural ruins, there is always something for every tourist to experience in this country.

Here are some of the places that are included in the trip that I mentioned above.

Istanbul- this is the cultural and financial centre of Turkey. This city bridges Asia and Europe both physically and culturally. You can find here the footsteps of history and ancient monuments and architecture dating back to Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods. Don't miss to visit Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque), and Basilica Cistern.

The Basilica Cistern in Istanbul is one of the most incredible places of this city. Built by Emperor Justinian Iduring the 6th century. credit

Bosphorus- This is also known as Istanbul Strait. It is the world's narrowest strait used for international navigation. It connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara. Sights to see include Akaretler Street, Arnavutköy or the so-called Albanian village, Emirgan Park, Rumeli Citadel, Dolmabahce Palace and the Sakip Sabanci Museum is also worthy to visit especially if you love calligraphy and paintings.

Izmir- this is the third largest city of Turkey. I saw some images of a friend who visited this place some years ago. The Konak Square, Alsancak, Kadifekale are only some of the sights to see. Izmir is also known for its beaches located not to far from the city centre. A walk along the Kordon can also be a nice experience. Kemeraltı, a big bazaar in Izmir, is the perfect place for those who love to shop.

Ephesus- I am sharing here some words of an online friend during his trip to this very interesting and major tourist destination in Turkey. It is very touching. Thank you so much Art for this very well-written experience.

"When Jesus died on the cross, He asked his apostle John to take care of his Mother, the Virgin Mary. John brought her to live out her last years at Ephesus, which is right outside of Kusadasi. When I walked into the small stone building that is where she lived, it was the most unbelievable feeling that I have ever felt in my whole life!! And I am not even Catholic. BUT I BELIEVE, especially now! The Greek and Roman ruins at Ephesus are unbelievable. There are more ruins in just Ephesus than there are in all of Greece. I saw where the apostle Paul preached to the Ephesians and where he was imprisoned. I saw where John was tried and exiled to a small island just of the coast of Turkey. And all of Ephesus is very well preserved because no cities were built over the ruins like they did in Greece and Italy."

Pergamon- also called as Pergamum, was an ancient Greek city in modern Turkey. This is a historical place and of religious importance for Christians. According to the book of Revelation 2:13, the first bishop of Pergamon, Antipas, was martyred there in ca. 92 AD. Interesting sights to see include Kizil Avlu (Red Basilica), the Town Square which features some columns from Pergamon and Asclepion, the Temple of Serapis, the Acropolis and many more.

Things to Consider When Planning For Your Holiday

There are a lot of things to consider when traveling. I wish to share some of these here according to my own experience. Doing these stuffs might help you avoid stress and hectic when you spend your holiday. It might even help you save time and money.

Budget

I read a blog before that says, there is such a thing called "free travel". Would you believe in this? I may say, "yes" but on the other side, I will also say, "no". If you probably win in a travel promo that says, "All are included in the trip plus pocket money", then I can say that it is truly one hundred percent free! That is the reason why first and foremost, you need to consider you budget. Can you afford for your trip? Do you have enough money to spend for it? These are some questions you need to consider. Sometimes there are cheap trips out there when you are lucky enough to find one.

Accommodation

Sometimes, even we have some friends or relatives in a place that we will be visiting, it is not easy to ask if they can give us a room in their house. It is good to know that you can find now cheap holiday accommodation. This is especially true, through the help of computer and internet. All you need to do is type for cheap hotels or apartments in a certain search engine like Google or Yahoo, and there you go, you can a find a lot in the lists.

A beautiful beach in Mactan Island in Cebu, Philippines. This was taken during my vacation last 2010

Time

This is also very important in considering your holiday. If you are working, you always need an approval from your boss. In fact, you need to fill-out first a vacation leave form some weeks or even months before your can take your holiday. Whether you will spend a three-day or a month's vacation, your boss will need to approve it first.

I believed those are the most important ones to consider when going for a holiday. I might share some other more in my next post. Lastly, take time to plan ahead for your vacation. This can help you save time and money. Have a safe and sound trip!