Beach Holiday Guide

If you are interested in adding new intriguing and exciting destinations to your travel itinerary, dont miss the opportunity to spend your holiday in South America. By choosing to travel to this magnificent continent, you will have the chance to discover remarkable cultures and civilizations with a great history behind them, driven by the temperamental but also very welcoming Latin spirit. Some of the most prominent and important countries in South America, representing true symbols for the South American continent, Argentina, Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil and Panama have a very well-developed potential for tourism, attracting overwhelmingly large numbers of tourists each year.

These magnificent countries have known great progress and development in the last few decades, despite their struggled historical past, dominated by political conflicts and interests. Nowadays, these splendid countries on the South American continent are among the most requested holiday destinations, enchanting visitors with a wide variety of tourist sites and resorts, both old and modern remarkable architectonic structures, large and imposing metropolitan areas, all revealing the ingenious, innovative and hard-working character of their inhabitants.

The remarkable economic achievements of these major countries in South America are direct proportional with their high potential for tourism. Thanks to their great history, culture, music, as well as the amazing beauty of their urban and rural establishments, and not to mention their accomplishments regarding the much-treasured Latin passion football, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Venezuela and Panama have become extremely popular worldwide. Their continuously increasing popularity has determined a pronounced development of their tourism, drawing millions of tourists towards their borders.

If you decide to travel to Brazil, you will be amazed by the staggering beauty of this great South American country. Among the most requested Brazil travel destinations are its capital, Brasilia, and major cities such as Sao Paulo, Salvador and Rio de Janeiro. Famous for its majestic carnivals, magnificent natural resorts, tropical climate and the exuberance of its inhabitants, Brazil is a highly requested holiday destination. Renowned as an important center for tourism of the South American continent, Brazil attracts overwhelmingly large numbers of visitors each year. Brazil has a well-developed and extended network of airports, air travel facilitating the visiting tourists access to major cities and various other locations between or beyond the borders of the country. Thanks to modern infrastructure and the variety of airports present here, flights to Brazil are the quick and comfortable way of traveling to this intriguing region of South America.

Similar to Brazil, Argentina is also a major center for tourism in South America. The most popular Argentina travel destinations are its capital – Buenos Aires, Mar del Plata the main tourist resort situated on the Atlantic Coast, La Plata, Santa Fe, Santa Cruz, Cordoba, Mendoza and San Juan. Combining the Latin mentality with European cultural influences, Argentina is a welcoming country for anyone who wishes to discover new interesting locations. Thanks to the well developed network of airports present here, the best way to travel around the country is by air. Apart from being very comfortable, Argentina flights have the benefit of being inexpensive as well. Travel to Argentina and you are guaranteed to have the time of your life!

Although they are much smaller in size than Brazil and Argentina, Colombia, Venezuela and Panama are also important tourist centers of the South American continent. Vacations in Colombia, Venezuela and Panama are exciting and intriguing experiences for both regular travelers and occasional visitors. The most requested Colombia travel destinations are Bogot, Cartagena, Cali, Villa de Leiva, San Augustin and San Andres. Among the most desired Venezuela travel destinations are Caracas, Puerto la Cruz, Isla Margarita, Isla El Grand Roque, Isla La Tortuga, Merida and Puerto Ayacucho. Popular Panama travel destinations are Panama City, Bocas del Toro, Boquete, Isla Contadora, Guadalupe, Isla Bastimentos, Isla Taboga and Almirante.

Whether you decide to visit these countries for the beauty of their tropical landscapes, shores and beaches, for their ancient cultural resorts and the variety of historical tourist sites or simply to interact with the exuberating, welcoming locals, spending your vacations on the Latin American continent is definitely a remarkable and unforgettable experience!

For the ultimate beach vacation there is no better location than that of Jomtien Beach in Thailand. Which is just a two hours ride in a taxi from Bangkok Airport.The Jomtien Beach is located about two kilometers from its busy counterpart resort of South Pattaya.

Jomtien Beach and the area along its beach road have now become more and more popular for swimming, water sports and activities because it has a long straight coastline and theyre being less boats anchored in its waters. There are very many good quality hotels, bungalows and guesthouses. A wide range of small and large condominiums is also available for short or long term rental and many good restaurants serving a wide variety of fresh seafood with a full range of Thai cuisine and International dishes.

Many tourists come to this area to just enjoy the scenery and the beach. Chairs are available to sit with a table to have food and drink served directly to you as you soak up the sun or simply lay back and listen to the waters lapping on the sand. Go swimming or enjoy water sports such as wind surfing, ride a water scooter, parasail or take a speed boat ride, even water skiing is possible.

The Jomtien Beach has good quality white sand and a very long coastline to enjoy. The beach is much more peaceful here than its counterpart of Pattaya further up the coast. The beaches are always kept in a pristine condition by the many vendors who are there to look after all your needs.

Along the early part of the straight beach road you will find many souvenir shops, international restaurants, food stalls. But at the far end of the beach road there are very good seafood restaurants and it is where you can find yourself at times the only person soaking up the sun.

You can also swim late into the night along a large part of the beach as the sands are floodlit which makes for a very safe environment to swim after the sun has gone down. May be you only want to simply find a quiet bar for any drink of your choosing. Many are available and the prices have to be seen to be believed.

Jomtien beach simply has it all without having to travel long distances. But if you fancy a more adventurous evening and want to enjoy a full range of nightlife activities Pattaya is just a few minutes down the coast. Transportation around the Pattaya and Jomtien area is simple. The open pick up cars (Baht buses as they are locally called) are running all the time. Just hail one down and climb aboard.

Jomtien is one place in the world where a good quality beach vacation is simplicity itself.
How do I know these things I live there.

Author Barry Hooper can be contacted at basthehoop@hotmail.co

A cocktail of bullfighting, flamenco and sangria, Spain is a country blessed with rich history and culture. Add beautiful beaches and warm climate, and its evident why Spain is the worlds second most visited country.

The demise of Franco opened Spain to a curious world. A booming tourist industry allowed the country to grow, revealing its history and way of life to an interested planet.

Each town revels in its individual brand of architecture, none more so than Barcelona, bearing the architectural signature of Antonio Gaudi. The Hostal Dos Reis Catolicos in Santiago de Compostela is believed to be the worlds oldest hotel. Buildings in the far south of Spain retain a distinct Moroccan influence, a consequence of invasions from ancient past.

Northern Spain seems to have been inspired by Celtic Britain, even borrowing the Scottish bagpipes as instrument of choice.

Spains emotional love affair with the art world is captured in its many fine museums. Works of the countrys favourite sons, including the surreal compositions of Dali, and the enigmatic genius of Picasso are displayed with honour.

Attracting over 2 million visitors a year, La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is Gaudis most celebrated masterpiece. Under construction since 1882, this magnificent cathedral is not expected to be completed until around the year 2080. Today, the project is funded from tourism.

The Plaza Major in Madrid is the capitals most historic landmark. This old town square is the perfect place to sit and relax, drink your coffee, and watch the world go by. Tourists and locals congregate each day to absorb the ambience and exchange thoughts.

However, there is more to this place than meets the eye. In days gone by, kings have been crowned here and trials of the inquisition held. Other events such as bullfighting have also taken prominence. Despite its age, meticulous attention has kept the square beautifully preserved.

Sun worshippers with little cultural interest can find solace on the Costa del Sol. A haven for beach lovers, the long golden sands provide ample opportunity for that bronze tan.

Located off the west coast of Morocco, the Canary Islands are the ideal destination for beach holidays. Born of volcanic activity, plant life and vegetation thrive in the rich soil, providing safe refuge for local wildlife. Golden sands contrast the black volcanic rock, while the cool Atlantic breeze retains a comfortable temperature.

The Balearic Islands, southeast of Barcelona are another suntrap, a lure for those who enjoy a hot sun and long nights. Indeed, the island of Ibiza is the party capital of Europe.

For those of a more cultured persuasion, the Prado Museum in Madrid houses some of the greatest works throughout Europe. Since construction in 1819, millions have passed through and revelled in its glory.

LOS ANGELES a metropolis, which spans across a thousand square
miles of the great desert basin, mixed together with congested
freeways that run between the ocean and the mountains.

LA is still considered a young city. In the mid-nineteenth century, it
was a community of white American immigrants, poor Chinese
laborers, and wealthy Mexican ranchers, with a population of less
than fifty thousand. Definitely, a difference from what it is now. LA
is known for it shopping malls, palm trees, and swimming pools.
The celluloid self-image of Los Angeles is known all over the world.

The first-time visitor to Los Angeles may well find it to be thrilling
and threatening in equal proportions. It is a very fast-paced city
and it will pick you up and sweep you along whether you want it to
or not. While Los Angeles has many fine-art museums, California
cuisine and a few old-fashioned urban plazas, what people really
come here for is to experience the city that has come to epitomize
the American Dream. This is where teens come to try to become
actors and stars.

Recommendation for first time visitors is to visit places such as
Universal Studios, Mann’s Chinese Theatre, Venice Beach
Boardwalk, Watt’s Towers, Melrose Avenue, Rodeo Drive, Walt
Disney Concert Hall, and let us not forget about the amusement
parks such as Knott’s Berry Farm, Magic Mountain, and Disneyland.

With all the entertainment available in Los Angeles, you are sure
to see a Celebrity or two while you are out and about. There are
many things to do in LA, how about just hanging out at the beach
and relaxing or surfing in the Pacific Ocean. Many things are within
driving distance from LA as well.

Check with your local travel agency for excellent packages to the
Los Angeles area.

Of course Istanbul! With the strait of Bosporus in between, its itself divided by the Golden Horn (Halic) into the Old City to the south, and Beyoglu and other modern districts to the north. Istanbul throughout the year offers many events and entertainments to its visitors and citizens. Of course, if youve got limited time, the Old City is where you should go first as it features all the main sights of the city.

Here we would like to mention some of the most important for which is worthy to get a flight ticket right now and go!

In April the International Istanbul Film Festival features events and projections in many cinemas in Beyoglu. Almost 200 films running in competitive and no-competitive sections from fiction to documentary or animations will animate Istanbul and your nights!

In May and June if you happen to be around, dont miss the exciting International Theatre Festival at its 16th edition organized by the istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts. Different venues will host international artists and various sections dedicated to French theatre also. Tickets can be easily purchased at the internet website Biletix. It is important to notice that tickets purchased on-line can be obtained upon presentation of the credit card at the venue at least two hours before the performance begins. Also, in order to avoid queues on the performance night it is advisable that customers get your tickets from one of the BILETIX retail outlets at least one day before the performance. Upon request, tickets can be delivered to address at the expenses of the addressee. You can also see the official website: iksv_org.

In the same period between May and June the Fujifilm World Music Days and the International Istanbul Puppet Festival are organized. This one in particular for 8 days at various venues hosts many famous national and international puppeteers from literally everywhere. Past editions saw puppeteers from Germany, Austria, Brazil, Spain, Switzerland, Italy, Russia and Taiwan!

If you wish to combine entertainment, culture and a relaxing holiday on the Turkeys splendid beaches, June is the perfect period away from the touristy season!! The International Istanbul Music Festival and the International Bosphorus Festival kick off in June. The three-day H2000 Festival is also held in June. If music is irresistible then Turkey summer season doesnt have to be missed!!

The world renowned International Istanbul Jazz Festival is held every July attracting hundreds of renowned performing artists and musicians from all over the world! So the Efes Pilsen Blues Festival with a story of 10 years now, the intercultural Akbank International Jazz Festival and not least he Yapi Kredi Art Festival, featuring Rock and Roll, pop to classic music and jazz spread throughout the year!

Apart from summer season, where prices are relatively high, during other periods Turkey is very affordable. It wont be hard to find cheap accommodations to meet all budgets especially if you are ok with a Youth hostel accommodation where they provide you with a bunk bed and a clean international friendly environment! There are many youth hostels for backpackers or travellers featuring Turkish interior designs, mosaics and Turkish baths at affordable prices. There are many on-line bookers also that will make your life much easier allowing you to compare prices, choose your destination, your lodging and book directly throu the web! We found some on this website (Flashbooking) where many hostels and hotels feature restaurant views over Istanbul Old City.

Spain is the land of romance and amazing oddities. From bullfights to Gaudi to partying the night away on Ibiza, travelers could easily spend a year exploring Spain.

Madrid

With a population of over three million, Madrid is a big, modern city in central Spain. The suburbs of Madrid are very modern and not particularly interesting. Make it to the center of the city, however, and you are in for a treat. Small alleys, hidden squares and odd little shops are the norm. In this center, you will find a vibrant public life with outdoor cafes literally overrun with the passionate and interesting people of Madrid. When visiting the city, keep in mind it is very hot in the summer and pretty cold in the winter.

Barcelona

One of my favorite travel destinations, Barcelona is a costal city oozing charm. The city embodies all of the interesting little oddities of Spain with ancient streets where the local hobby is people watching. The city is also the home of best Gaudi architecture in Spain. Gaudi was either a genius or a madman, but there is no denying his architecture is unique. I would describe it as a mix between dripping candles and normal architecture. The big tourist attraction, of course, is the Sagrada Familia church, but better examples can be seen by just walking through neighborhoods. Yep, his work is throughout the city. The only downside to Barcelona is a trend of modernization. While modernization is generally okay, I think it is taking a bit away from the historic charm of Barcelona.

Ibiza

If youre looking to sit on the beach all day and party the night away, Ibiza is the hottest spot in Europe. An island off the coast of Spain, Ibiza is the rare tourist spot where monstrous tourist hotels dont dominate. Instead, youll find yourself staying in rented rooms, little hotels and hostels in Ibiza Town. During the days, its all about enjoying the beaches. At night, the bars and clubs of the island are world famous and they never really seem to close. Bring plenty of aspirin!

If youre going to visit Spain, you cant really go wrong. If time is short, Madrid, Barcelona and Ibiza are three spots worth seeing.

The region in Southeast of U.S. is among a favorite for people who fantasize being surrounded by water. Since the location is fairly near to equator weather in these parts of U.S. is warm. Also large water bodies influence to make the climate moderate. Due to this there are very few frozen beaches in Southeast; most of seaside is operational all year round. Southeast is emerging fast as an ideal holiday destination for enthusiastic tourists. All states in southeast are magnificent attractions on their own and together they present excellent opportunities for an exciting vacation.

Alabama offers variety prospects ranging from white beaches near the Gulf Coast to highest mountains that are picture perfect and in compliance with ones imagination. Its beaches are spread to about 32 miles and both business opportunities and fun activities are abundantly found here. The Huntsville Botanical Garden is a must visit for the place of the area consisting of dramatic collection of flowers and pasture covered lavishly with grasses. There is also a gleaming pool and a garden having aquatic perpetual exhibits all year round. Alabama Music Hall of Fame is a museum dedicated to achievers in music from all fields of music relating to Alabama. Casino lovers can find enough opportunities for their recreation in this city.

Florida is an ultimate destination of family or a romantic vacation. It offers best in both spheres, the lavish outlay by resorts and hotels, eye catching beaches and world class golf courses everything is an exotic treat for vacationers. Florida portrays prospects for mountain escapes of varied choices consisting of camping, hiking, amazing natural wonders and vast parks spread to many acres of land. A special attraction of Florida is the Fort Lauderdale or the Hollywood International Airport that makes Hollywood easily accessible. The beaches here are perfect for family and children as they offer fabulous attractions for all.

Georgia is a state with rich cultural heritage relating to literature and music. Even amazing landmarks from past are a bonanza of the place. Both mountains and seasides present splendid views and excellent tourism possibilities. This city offers glimpses of stylish southern culture and a feel of modern times consecutively. There are admirable dining options and presentable downtown views that can entertain a traveler who would just pass through its streets. Local galleries exhibit traveling art and official art collections. There is a masterpiece for everything in the state whether it is nature, entertainment, shopping, history or sports.

Virginia is rightly called a city for lovers. It is located at southern most part of Middle Atlantic States. It is roughly triangular in shape and has numerous must visit national parks each known for its unique characteristics. Virginia is a city with diversity and offers something for everyone. Its enriched historical background is an added attraction for the place. Among many tourist spots of the area is the famous Colonial Williamsburg history museum. The museum exhibits political and cultural world of 1700s and enjoys a status of largest living-history museum in America. Virginia is also the best place to visit during festivals as all events are celebrated with great zeal and zest here.

Its time to ad Mississippi back to our travel destination, for both business and pleasure. Katrina really put a wallop in the Mississippi economy so its time now to support the rebuilding effort along with the local economy.

If you are like me, you may find it hard to determine just where to go in Mississippi. Unlike New Orleans in Louisiana, or Orlando in Florida, Mississippi doesnt have a marquis destination. But, this is the good news!! It will be good for a change to travel to somewhere that is not mobbed with tourists our mouse ears.

Here are a few ideas:
Ocean Springs Elks Mardi Gras Parade, February
Parade begins on East Beach by the site of the former Ocean Springs Yacht Club and will go through downtown Ocean Springs and finish by the Ocean Springs High School.

Elvis Presley Festival, June
The Tupelo Convention & Visitors Bureau and the Elvis Presley Festival
invite you to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Elvis Homecoming
to Tupelo, Mississippi at the 8th Annual Elvis Presley Festival!

The Great Mississippi River Balloon Race, October
Pilots compete in “Hare & Hounds” and “The Barge Drop” as they fly over antebellum homes and the mighty Mississippi River.

The Jimmie Rodgers Memorial Festival, May
The Jimmie Rodgers Memorial Festival has become a showcase of talent for some very well known artist over the past forty nine years.

Neshoba County Fair, July
Political, agricultural, and social exchanges of knowledge and ideas.

Vicksburg Riverfest, April
Schedule of great events include a kayak race from Lake Providence to Vicksburg, the Alcorn Jazzfest, a block of activities for young visitors, and the chance to see everyone you know and everyone you haven’t seen for a long time. And bands and music all day long.

That will get you started back to Mississippi, there is a ton of information available at the Mississippi tourism web site at www.state.ms.us.

The region in Southeast of U.S. is among a favorite for people who fantasize being surrounded by water. Since the location is fairly near to equator weather in these parts of U.S. is warm. Also large water bodies influence to make the climate moderate. Due to this there are very few frozen beaches in Southeast; most of seaside is operational all year round. Southeast is emerging fast as an ideal holiday destination for enthusiastic tourists. All states in southeast are magnificent attractions on their own and together they present excellent opportunities for an exciting vacation.

Alabama offers variety prospects ranging from white beaches near the Gulf Coast to highest mountains that are picture perfect and in compliance with ones imagination. Its beaches are spread to about 32 miles and both business opportunities and fun activities are abundantly found here. The Huntsville Botanical Garden is a must visit for the place of the area consisting of dramatic collection of flowers and pasture covered lavishly with grasses. There is also a gleaming pool and a garden having aquatic perpetual exhibits all year round. Alabama Music Hall of Fame is a museum dedicated to achievers in music from all fields of music relating to Alabama. Casino lovers can find enough opportunities for their recreation in this city.

Florida is an ultimate destination of family or a romantic vacation. It offers best in both spheres, the lavish outlay by resorts and hotels, eye catching beaches and world class golf courses everything is an exotic treat for vacationers. Florida portrays prospects for mountain escapes of varied choices consisting of camping, hiking, amazing natural wonders and vast parks spread to many acres of land. A special attraction of Florida is the Fort Lauderdale or the Hollywood International Airport that makes Hollywood easily accessible. The beaches here are perfect for family and children as they offer fabulous attractions for all.

Georgia is a state with rich cultural heritage relating to literature and music. Even amazing landmarks from past are a bonanza of the place. Both mountains and seasides present splendid views and excellent tourism possibilities. This city offers glimpses of stylish southern culture and a feel of modern times consecutively. There are admirable dining options and presentable downtown views that can entertain a traveler who would just pass through its streets. Local galleries exhibit traveling art and official art collections. There is a masterpiece for everything in the state whether it is nature, entertainment, shopping, history or sports.

Virginia is rightly called a city for lovers. It is located at southern most part of Middle Atlantic States. It is roughly triangular in shape and has numerous must visit national parks each known for its unique characteristics. Virginia is a city with diversity and offers something for everyone. Its enriched historical background is an added attraction for the place. Among many tourist spots of the area is the famous Colonial Williamsburg history museum. The museum exhibits political and cultural world of 1700s and enjoys a status of largest living-history museum in America. Virginia is also the best place to visit during festivals as all events are celebrated with great zeal and zest here.

If youre a budget traveler or backpacking Europe, Lagos is a cheap slice of paradise. Casa Rosa is the place for general sustenance, while Joes Garage is a place to let go.

Casa Rosa

Casa Rosa claims to be the haven for backpackers in Lagos. The more you travel, the more you know such claims are rarely true. With Casa Rosa, however, I can confirm the claim is true. This hole in the wall served heaping mounds of the food of the day for really cheap prices. It was packed with backpackers, which made it a good place to meet people and exchange war stories.

I havent been to Portugal for four years, so I have to attach a caveat to recommending Casa Rosa. When I first visited Casa Rosa in the 1990s, it was owned by a couple of Brits, who were apparently trying to sell it. I dropped in twice in subsequent years and they were still there and still trying to sell it. Whether this ever occurred, I cant really say so keep in mind there may be a new owner or the place may not exist at all.

Joes Garage

In every town or city, there is one underground night spot you just have to visit. Of course, you first have to find out about it and then figure out where it is. People in the know typically heavily guard this information. For years, Joes Garage has been such a place in Lagos.

The recommend attire for Joes Garage is a bathing suit, t-shirt and flip flops. The place appears to have no ventilation whatsoever and is insanely hot. Turning a negative into a positive, the owners have a strong water policy. Water shoots out of the ceiling, mouths of statutes on the wall and water guns expertly aimed by bartenders. If you were glasses, just leave them at home.

Joes is open from around ten in the evening until the hour you stagger out. It is located on Rua Primiero de Mayo, but dont bother writing that down. The place has so little signage that you could be standing in front and completely miss it. The best way to find it is to follow the late night crowd as they begin filing out of the bars around midnight.

Lagos is an ideal spot for budget travelers. The town is has beaches, nightlife and is cheap. Enjoy!