Los Cristianos

Los Cristianos is one of the original Canary Island tourist destinations and has been drawing visitors for decades, because of the stunning beaches and pleasant climate that can be found in the area.  Originally the town was a fishing village, and there are still some of the older buildings, but today it is known for the bustling nightlife and the two black sand beaches that are filled with visitors for much of the year.  Today the town is filled with hotels and the native population of around nineteen thousand people mostly work in the tourism industry, although there is still a few fishermen left who help to supply the seafood for the local restaurants.

Las Americas

Another tourist destination that is just a short distance away from Los Cristianos on the island’s south coast, the town was built exclusively to draw visitors to the Canary Islands, and to provide a purpose built town.  While it enjoys some great beaches, visitors can also be a little more active and enjoy the golf clubs, water park and scuba diving that is available around the coast of the island.  It is best to try and avoid the town center hotels, as the town can be quite rowdy at night when the nightclubs turn up the volume to attract the revelers.  A short walk from the town center there are plenty of hotels, and this is one of the most popular resorts to go all inclusive in Tenerife.

La Laguna

Situated on the north coast of the island, San Cristobal de La Laguna to give it the town’s full title is one of the gems of the island, and has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site because of its superb architecture.  The Iglesia de la Concepcion is one of the oldest buildings in the town, dating from the early sixteenth century, and along with the old city is a superb example of Spanish architecture in this period.  Visitors will usually have to go to the city on a trip from one of the nearby towns, as it is also home to the University of La Laguna which means the majority of the accommodation in the town is taken up by students.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

The capital city of the island is the largest settlement on Tenerife, and is a popular tourist destination as well as being the most important economic hub on the island.  One of the most interesting places for visitors to spend their time is on Las Teresitas beach, where the golden sand has all been imported to make it a more pleasant attraction for those visiting the area.  Among the most popular events in the city is the annual carnival which is held every February, and is believed to be attended by up to a quarter of a million people every year, who come to enjoy the superb spectacle and revelry.

Because of its year-round warm climate and the variety of attractions on offer, the state of Florida is one of the most popular tourist destinations for holidaymakers from around the world. But the so-called Sunshine State offers more than just beaches, nightlife, and theme parks. Its natural landscapes are a major attraction in the area and provide a fine opportunity for those who are looking for an original and unforgettable holiday experience. The Everglades National Park is one of such attractions, and approximately one million tourists visit the park every year. What makes it so popular and how can you prepare for a trip to the Everglades? Read on to find out.

Highlights of the Everglades National Park

Exploring the park by boat or by foot in ranger-led tours are two of the most popular activities. Some of the boat tours are guided by naturalists who can help visitors appreciate more the unique character of the park and its inhabitants. Educational trips for the younger ones in the family are also available. It is also possible to go on 2-hour long tram tours or to rent a bicycle and explore the park at your own pace.

Birdwatching, fishing, kayaking, hiking, and wildlife spotting are other options. Alligators, cormorants, deers, pelicans, and manatees are common sights, and even panthers have been spotted!

The Wilderness Waterway is a 99-mile long nature trail that takes visitors through some of the most spectacular beaches, coves, and mangroves. Overnight trips are possible for those who do not have time to complete the trail.

Visiting the Everglades National Park in Florida: things you need to know

There are a few points that need to be kept in mind when planning a trip to the Everglades. These include:

The local weather and the peak season

Florida’s tropical weather is an important consideration for those whishing to visit the Park. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are quite common during the wet season, which runs between May and September. While these should not stop anyone from visiting the Everglades, it is important to note that some boat tours and facilities are not open to the public at those times due to the risk of flooding. Visitor and information centres may work shorter hours too. On the other hand, the dry season sees a surge in visitor numbers, and reservations for excursions and accommodation are advisable. Check with the park for the latest information.

Permits and entrance fees

Entrance fees apply to vehicles ($10) and pedestrians ($5) and are valid for seven days. Anyone below 16 years old can enter the park for free. Bicycle fees are $5. Camping fees are $16 per person, plus $30 if electricity is needed.

A permit is required to camp in wilderness areas, which can be obtained at the park’s visitor centres at $10. Widlerness camping is free during the wet season.

Accommodation

Camping is the only accommodation option at the Everglades. If you wish to stay at a hotel or motel, the nearest options are in Everglades City, which is only a couple of miles away from the park’s entrance.

Getting to the Everglades

The nearest airport to the park is Miami International, which has daily flights to and from London Heathrow. It is possible to find low-price flights on offer during the low season. From the airport, route 41 takes visitors to the park in 90 minutes.

When planning your next holiday, make sure to place the Florida Everglades on your bucket list and prepare for the holiday of a lifetime in this unique natural environment.

Adventures in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a cultural treasure and a popular destination in Europe especially for backpackers and traveler looking for an inexpensive holiday abroad. The Rijks museum and the famed Van Gogh Museum should be right at the top of your list, as well as the Anne Frank Huis which is a truly memorable experience.

Ajax Football Stadium and The Heineken Experience

This is a must-see if you’re in the Netherlands on a weekend away with the boys. Individual tours don’t need booking and there are great discounts for groups of more than ten. The Ajax Museum is free and adjacent to the stadium. If you plan your holiday you can even take in game and after an afternoon at the footy, book for the popular Heineken Experience to start your evening entertainment in Amsterdam.

Dutch Seaside Sensation

The beach of Zandvoort is easily reachable from its Central Station and makes for a perfect day out, especially in summer. This seaside town has a recorded history that dates back to 1100, but it was on in the late 19th century that is became popular as a resort town and holiday destination. The town has a magnificent sandy beach and there are excellent restaurants and eateries along the beachfront and in the town. With over 30 beach clubs offering discounted rates for travellers, Zandfoort is a popular attraction in the Netherlands.

Delights of Delft

Delft is a great day trip out of Amsterdam. The city has a number of guided walking tours and you can use a Low cost holidays promotion code to book a combination ticket to see the sights of Delft. Cycling, boating on the canals, indulging in some of the local brews and of course the famous Blue Delft pottery and porcelain.

A holiday in the Netherlands can be as full or as relaxed as you like – bike hire is a phenomenal and reasonably priced way to explore and you’ll be able to plan your own itinerary and go anywhere on a whim.

5.  Appreciate what you have.  Give yourself the gift of appreciation.  Sure we all know that we love having a nice apartment or house, a car to get to and from work, and maybe even a puppy or family to keep us company.  The things we take for granted however, like constant running water, electricity, shelter, and food on the table are all things that not every country has the luxury of enjoying.  When you visit a rural village to volunteer you will be reminded of how truly rich you are at home.

4.  Share your experience with like-minded people. When you dive into educational travel, you will come across similar harmonious travelers.  People who also appreciate the little things in life, and want to give rather then take.  Warm hearts and camaraderie will be your company during your adventure vacation.  True experiences are indeed; better when they can be shared.

3.  Share your experiences with friends and family.  Your loved ones back home will be thrilled to hear about all of your experiences abroad, living with a family, experiencing another culture, sharing about the noble footsteps that you left behind.  What better way to connect with your friends and family at home, then over a nice cup of coffee that you harvested yourself on a sustainable coffee plantation while enjoying your educational travel experience?

2.  Bring back some good habits.  While learning about sustainability, eco-tourism, and good environmental footprint practice, consider what you can do at home to better the planet.  Maybe you will be inspired to start composting, perhaps you will learn a new use for the “junk” you otherwise would have thrown out, maybe you will be inspired to finally clean out your closet and donate some useful clothing to a charity.  Good deeds and improvement for the soul don’t have to stop once you leave your educational expedition.

1.  Document your journey.  Whether you are a writer, blogger, scrap booker, photographer, or just a travel enthusiast.  Save your photos and write about your experience.   One day you will be able to share the amazing adventures you embarked upon, and the lives that you touched during your journey abroad.  Let your next vacation be one of giving and improvement.  Share your good spirits and positive attitude in a place that needs your help, and the satisfaction and gratification you receive in return will well outweigh the price you pay for your vacation.

• The Great Wall of China – This is considered to be the longest and largest man-made structure in the world. It is so big that it could be seen from the moon. It took a lot of years to build this famous landmark. Emperors, warriors, and warlords from different dynasties have their part in the construction of the Great Wall. It was built so that invading barbarians will not be able to take over the country. The good thing about the Great Wall is that you could find a lot of souvenir stores in here.
• The Forbidden City – Also known as the Palace Museum, The Forbidden City can be found in Beijing. It used to be the imperial seat for both Ming and Qing dynasties. If you visit this place, you will definitely feel like you are in ancient China. The palace is located north of Tiananmen Square, another historic landmark that you might want to visit. This place a popular tourist destination since a lot of Chinese history can be learned from here. In 1987, it has received an UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
• Museum of the Terracotta Army – In 1974, a farmer accidentally discovered thousands of life-statues. These statues resemble warriors and no other statue is the same as another. Each statue is unique and that is what made them very admirable. The statues were probably buried in 210 BC. A trip to China will not be complete without visiting the Museum of the Terracotta Army.
• Hangzhou – China is a country that is rich in panoramic sceneries. You should definitely visit Hangzhou. This place is so beautiful that it is considered to be a paradise on earth. Hangzhou is a city that features beautiful gardens. You will also see a lot of temples and pavilions in this city. You should not forget to bring your camera if you plan to visit Hangzhou. It is considered to be a paradise for photographers.
• Jiuzhaigou Valley – If it is panoramic scenes you want, you should definitely visit the beautiful valley of Jiuzhaigou. Feast your eyes on the crystal blue lakes and majestic waterfalls. You will definitely love this place. The peace and tranquility that this place offers is superb. The good thing about this valley is that it is populated by a number of Tibetan villages. You could speak to the Tibetan people and learn more about their culture.
• Potala Palace – This palace used to be the seat of the Dalai Lama. The palace stands at over twelve thousand feet. That is why you should prepare yourself for a very tiresome climb. Nevertheless, once you reach the top, you will definitely feel satisfied.

• Jerusalem – This is the most popular tourist destination in the country. Jerusalem is a very important city because it is where all the branches of the Israeli government have been situated. It is not a surprise that Jerusalem is a very important spot. After all, if one would look at the history books, thousands of people have died just so they could possess this very strategic city. Most sites which have been mentioned in the holy books could be found in Jerusalem. One of the most popular attractions in this city is the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo.
• Eilat – If you are looking for a place where you could relax and have a good time, you should definitely visit Eilat. It is a resort town where the sun shines “forever.” One of the reasons why a lot of people go to Eilat is because they want to go diving at the Red Sea.  The Red Sea is one of the best diving sites in the world because of the underwater features that you will be able to see. There are so many creatures that you could see underwater. Some of the examples include sharks, sea turtles, and manta rays.
• Dead Sea – The Dead Sea is very famous because of its salty composition. Not really considered as a sea, the Dead Sea is increasing its depth every year. However, one of the interesting facts about this spot is that you will be able to float easily. This is because salty water makes swimmers float without any effort. That is why you might want to pack some swimming suits if you wish to have a great time at the Dead Sea.
• Acre – This old city used to be a very strategic place especially during the time when the Holy Crusades were launched. Today, it stands as a magnificent tourist site that is well-preserved. It stands on a very strategic location. Do not forget to bring your picture if you are planning to visit this very famous walled city.  
• Sea of Galilee – The Sea of Galilee has been mentioned a lot of times in the Bible. It is where Jesus preached his sermons and it is also where Jesus walked on water. That is probably the reason why it attracts a lot of tourists. But even if you do not consider its Biblical significance, the Sea of Galilee is still a sight to behold. The beauty and serenity that this body of water showcases is definitely admirable.

Without a doubt, the most widely anticipated event of the year is The Gathering 2013. Kicking off with a three-day street party on New Year’s Eve, this twelve-month extravaganza is going to be the biggest party Ireland has ever thrown.  The initiative invites anyone with a connection (however tenuous) to come home and celebrate Irish culture. Primarily a grass-roots movement, many local communities are organising individual events throughout the country. The Kellys and Murphys are preparing for the mother of all family reunions and plans for an Obama re-visit are gaining momentum in Moneygall. If you are one of the seven people in the world who can’t claim Irish Ancestry, you can rest assured that you are still welcome!

But the Gathering is not the only event that is drawing visitors to these shores. In a country famed for throwing mighty hooleys, 2013 will see an unprecedented number of Irish festivals and events for visitors to enjoy. From the Bog Snorkelling Championships to the Matchmaking festival in Lisdoonvarna and the Festival of Fires on the sacred Hill of Tara, there really is something for everyone. With exciting and magical family-friendly shows for children of all ages, the Baboró International Arts Festival for Children is a must. Theatre, puppetry, storytelling, visual art and dance workshops are just some of the events on the autumn programme for 2013.

Ireland is awash (no pun intended) with music festivals which are loads of fun, from the hip Electric Picnic, to the even hipper Body and Soul. But if you’re not a fan of the welly brigade, then fear not. The Wexford Opera Festival, Cork Jazz Festival and Temple Bar Trad Fest offer refreshing alternatives. If you find yourself in the North-West in October, then you are in for a real treat. The wonderfully diverse Sligo Live has been quietly gathering momentum over the last few years. This exceptional festival showcases the very best of traditional, blues, and indie music and is an absolute must on any Irish festival calendar.

Derry folk really know how to throw a great party, as any visitor on Halloween night can testify. So it’s good to know that the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2013 is in their capable hands.  Crossing the border for the first time in its sixty-year history, the Fleadh is, quite simply, the best traditional Irish music festival in the world and is a great way for overseas visitors to get an authentic taste of our musical heritage.

Bibliophiles rejoice! In May, thousands of Irish and international literary figures and will descend upon the charming village of Listowel to celebrate Writer’s Week. This year, the organisers will draw inspiration from The Gathering and focus on Irish writing abroad. With a multitude of workshops, guest lecturers, poetry recitals, literary walking tours, and competitions, there is simply no better way to bring literature to life.

Film lovers, take your pick of the best cinema has to offer at the Galway Film Fleadh, Cork Corona Film Festival, and Dublin Jameson International Film Festival. All three consistently produce interesting and eclectic programmes that showcase the best in Irish and international shorts, films and documentaries.

Finally, why not learn about Ireland’s unique heritage and history by participating in the many free events held during National Heritage Week. Due to take place in August 2013, this is a wonderful opportunity to visit some of the country’s historic houses, ancient monuments, and fortified castles. With a diverse range of activities, including night-time bat walks, poetry recitals and battle re-enactments, this is a great way to fully immerse yourself in Ireland’s unique heritage. Now all you need to do is find a hotel close to all the action, choose from a great range around the city centre.

Autumn is the perfect season to rejuvenate and update your current wardrobe and this season is all about nostalgia!
Make an easy transition from Summer to Autumn by cleverly adding to your Summer wardrobe with retro knits, elegant coats and 60′s skirts.

It feels difficult to say goodbye to those long and glorious Summer days, misty warm evenings and lazy barbeques with friends but Autumn is upon us like a galloping horse so let’s embrace and welcome it with a range of feisty and bold new colours to add to our blissfully bright and summery ensembles.

Grab that credit card and step out whilst the pleasant weather is still loitering, you’ve got some shopping to do! Apply today for a credit card and start benefitting from the many rewards offered by American Express gold card while shopping.

This season is already being labelled ‘pretty gothic’ so with this in mind let’s firstly consider colours. Purple is a perfect transitional colour – brightly summery and classically autumnal. A colour intermediate between red and blue, the many varying shades of purple make it this season’s most interesting colour choice.

Look lavish in lilac, heavenly in heliotrope and pure in plum! Search those shops and trawl those high streets armed with your platinum card that allows you to accumulate rewards at an accelerated rate to spend on other things later on. You’re looking for a plum chunky knit cardigan which you can team with your favourite Summer maxi-dress; you need a cerise silk shirt to wear over your holiday vests; how about some indigo ankle boots with your favourite seasonal leggings? Variety is the spice of Autumn.

So you’re armed with colour inspiration for your spending spree, what’s next?

Accessories of course! In keeping with the ‘pretty gothic’ theme this Autumn accessories should look a touch enigmatic. You want people to glance and glance again – where did she get that?

Exquisite hair slides, combs with ornate spiders, wrist cuffs with diamante encrusted spikes, dark yet sparkling anklets and rings bedecked with large, opulent stones – the list is endless; ladies – purses at the ready!

Autumn is the beginning of an indulgent and exuberant time of year – let your wardrobe reflect this. Treat yourself to a season of looking like autumnal royalty! Forget the catwalk – step out to clear blue skies and fiery foliage in your latest purchases and feel like a million dollars! Opt for rich nail polishes and gold shimmering make up to complete your look.

This is the season to shine and shimmer with the Autumn sun high in the sky!

Costa Rica is one of the most diverse locations from nature, wildlife, and even provinces.  Whether you are looking for a relaxing yoga retreat in Nosara, or an underwater adventure on Puerto Limon, or of course some surfing and hanging ten in Tamarindo.  The great diversity of Costa Rica brings loads of activities to try for any level of travel enthusiast, even those that think Mexico is fun.

Nature tours for those looking to see some beautiful flora and fauna, a variety of unique animal species, and to get out and enjoy some of that special Costa Rican sunshine, is the perfect daytime activity.  One of the best things about the activities is that they are just a few steps away from your Tamarindo Vacation Rental.

A couple of top-notch adventure activities to try out, are those that are upon wheels.  Renting a bicycle for example if available to you is a great way to explore a town.  A beach cruiser is perfect for rolling around on the beach and taking in some of the great landscape.

Just keep track of high tide and low tide because a nice smooth beach ride may end up being a long trek on bumpy and dangerous roads, so just be aware that the tide might go all the way up for your ride back.  A bike ride is a lovely way to spend the day and a nice way to see some of the attractions throughout the town.

If you are feeling a bit more adventurous you could also rent a mountain bike and head up some of the dirt trails to explore some of the back roads of the jungle.  If you would feel safer book a biking tour so that you will see the best sites that a certain location has to offer.  With miles of pristine single track, beach views, and rolling rides through the jungle you will be sure to have an adventure to get your heart pounding and even experience a work out.  The best part about mounting biking is that you get the benefit of a nature tour during your climbs, with the exercise and adrenalin rush to boot.

If your not looking for a self propelled way to enjoy wheels, you definitely have to check out an ATV tour.  The same basic trails that are for mountain biking, except they can still be amazing in the rain, and also function well even if the track is all washed out.  Great views of beach and lush jungle forests make this a great way to spot monkeys, iguanas, and different bird species.  Travelling and enjoying the different sites and views of Costa Rica are exciting weather you experience them on plane, train, bike, quad, horse, or even atop the ocean or by foot.  Whichever mode of adventure you choose, it’s just another day in paradise.

Planning a trip to some of the famous cities of Europe.  Want to go see some of the famous locations and landmarks such as The Eiffel Tower located in France, or The Acropolis in Athens Greece, or The Colosseum in Rome Italy, or of course the famous Vatican City.  The wonders of the world are awaiting your arrival in the various locations of Europe.  While you may not have enough time on your next vacation to pass through every marvel that this vast continent has to offer, you still can prepare to see a variety of sites and experience a ton of adventure.

A great way to hit a few different locations without the fuss and suffocation of a cab, shuttle, or train, is by exploring the country on a European Bike Tour.  Select a country with a tour itinerary that suits your adventure needs and let someone else work out all the details.  No fuss, just time to relax and day dream about your up coming adventure tour through the country of your choice in Europe.

We all have seen photos of the great landmarks and historical locations that we dream of one day meeting in person.  In an effort to see all that you possibly can on your European vacation you might miss much of the very beauty that these locations have to offer.  On a European Cycling Tour you can bask in the landscapes surrounding you.  You can island hop through the gently rolling countryside of the Danish Isles, and enjoy the lakes, waterfalls, and the wine country of the Julian Alps.  Sure you can experience all of this during your journey in car or bus or train, but you can’t breathe in the country air, smell the aroma of the newly ripened grape vineyards, or breathe the crisp fresh sea breeze.

The beauty of a European Bike Tour is that all the details have been carefully planned out for you; the trial and errors of travel have been eliminated.  A tour has selected the best cuisines, the most perfect accommodations, and amazing tried and true routes to arrive at your different dream locations.  Guides with experience in the specific region of the country that you select, have expertise dealing with the locals in that area, and navigating through each city, so you never have to worry about being lost, or uncertain of your plans.  A perfect way too see many of the cities of Europe.

Most of Europe has a unique history and interesting background.  Your guide knows the ins and outs of the different locations they are taking you to.  The all-inclusive informative tour never ends as you can ask as many questions as you please and relish in the fascinating stories that your guide would love to share.  Imagine a dream vacation on a France Bike Tour rolling near fields of fresh lavender, exploring the paths to ancient castles, and passing through picturesque villages.  On bike you can literally stop to smell the roses.  You have a moment to pause, relax, and take in the densely wooded forests, and meander into local wineries to enjoy some of the fine local wine and fares.

Not every vacation can be flawless, but Austin-Lehman Adventure travel’s 38-year legacy is striving to get pretty close.  With years of experience, longtime insider’s knowledge and extensive contacts in each destination, each piece of your adventure has been hand picked and perfected for you! Book your European bike tour today and see how greatly the view improves upon two wheels.