Look and Learn in Seattle

The Seattle Art Museum is one of the most accommodating art museums that also displays some of the greatest names in art. They allow you to photograph throughout the majority of the museum with the exception of some of the temporary exhibits. To find out what the latest exhibits are, visit the S.A.M. website - the Picasso exhibit opens up on October 8th, 2010.

The Pacific Science Center has fun for people of all ages, with exhibits you can interact with and truly enjoy. The Harry Potter exhibit opens up October 23rd, and will be fun for the whole family - or those who are simply young at heart. Currently, the Pacific Science Center is featuring an exhibition on circuses, for more information visit their website.

Finally, who can resist the Experience Music Project | Science Fiction Museum? Currently featuring an exhibit on Jimi Hendrix, the EMPSFM lets you explore some of the greatest pieces of the human - and non human - world. If the Seattle music scene is your thing, the Hard Rock Cafe downtown has an incredible Kurt Cobain & Nirvana memorabilia section. Don't forget about the Space Needle if you want some truly incredible views of the city - but because of the unpredictable weather, just make sure you pick a day to go on the spur of the moment while its clear outside.

Great Coffee, Great Food, & More Coffee...

The Pike Place Market is world famous - if you haven't heard about the fish being tossed around and the buzz of the most lively employees on this side of the continent, you've been missing out. It's nearly impossible to be down when you're around such a lively place. The food is incredible, and the fresh produce is to die for.

In and around where Pike St and First Avenue intersect, you'll find an array of shops and cafes that you can't find anywhere else. Beecher's Handmade Cheese is on the corner, and you can't resist the smell of freshly made cheese. Their flagship cheese is melt-in-your-mouth good and comes in regular or smoked. Other irresistible cheeses are Marco Polo, with Madagascar peppercorns, No Woman, with Jamaican jerk spices, or there's always their very fresh cheese curds!

You can't miss Le Panier either - with the aromas of buttery croissants and pastries wafting out of their doorway. Try one of the framboise croissants - a croissant filled with raspberry jam, and still warm.

And finally, if you're down at Pike Place, you can't miss the Original Starbucks. Guaranteed that the line will be out the door, but it's definitely worth it to get inside. Don't pull any of the specialty items off the shelf - they have them behind the counter ready to go. These items include at home and travelling mugs with the original Starbucks logo, as well as the Special Reserve Pike Place blend of coffee - a must if you're a coffee fanatic.

Eats and Treats

As if there wasn't enough food at Pike Place Market, Seattle offers some of the most incredible restaurants and experiences. Lola is a quaint little restaurant about a five minute walk from Pike Place on 4th Avenue. With a reputation for having some of the most incredible breakfast in the city, it's no surprise that you should make a reservation. The made-to-order donuts arrive at your table fresh with vanilla mascarpone and marmalade. Eat them before your meal - not because they're filling, but because it's best to do with a clean palate. They're to die for. If you want higher-class dining, the revolving restaurant at the Space Needle gives you great food at a high elevation. They enforce a dress code, so leave the tank tops and muscle tees at home.

City Snap Guide: Seattle

If you love coffee but can't afford to go to Italy, why not take a jaunt into Washington state and visit Seattle!



What makes Seattle so special? The world famous Pike Place market, the first ever Starbucks, the underground city? With a buzzing art world, a lively waterfront and unique cultural experiences, Seattle should definitely be on your bucket list. Friendly people, a great downtown and killer shopping make this city one you'll want to visit over and over. Seattle has something for everyone, never failing to disappoint. One tip to remember? Bring your umbrella! Northern west coast weather is a little more than unpredictable. A bonus? The buses downtown are free for large portions of the day making the city very tourist-friendly.

A City Underground

Seattle is unique in it's construction. The city was settled in 1851, making it quite modern in recent history. However, the roads were at sea level, and the city would frequently flood. In 1889, sixty-four blocks of the business district of Seattle burnt to the ground.

When it came time to rebuild, the city decided to raise the street level to prevent further flooding. In order to do this, they built retaining walls around the streets, filling them with rubble from the fire. However, the building entrances and sidewalks still remained below the walls - which sometimes were as high as the building's second level! As you can imagine, this made getting from one side of the street to the other extremely difficult.

Eventually the sidewalks were leveled with the streets, and the bottom levels of the buildings became forgotten. In the 1960s, Bill Speidel petitioned to save the buildings from being torn down and began the underground tours - which he turned into a full time business! The Underground Tour is an incredible way to learn history, the tour guides truly enjoy their jobs! For those interested in a little bit more adult fun, the Underworld Tour looks at the red light district, and tales full of opium, sex and debauchery. The one major rule for the tours? No high heels allowed! The terrain is rugged and includes six flights of stairs.

For more on Seattle, check out Great Coffee, Great Food and More Coffee... or Look and Learn: Things to See in Seattle.

City Snap Guide: San Antonio

San Antonio possesses a unique charm. With a huge cultural heritage that represents its dynamic history, this is a city of contrasts: one of the largest cities in the U.S that still boasts the relaxed friendliness of a small town. From down-home hospitality and cooking to high-brow dining, extensive art collections and excellent golf courses, San Antonio serves up an all-star winner. Why not get away from it all in southern Texas?

Haunted Houses

The battle at the famous Alamo took hundreds of lives, following repeated attacks by Mexican general Santa Anna's army in 1836. Their ghosts have wandered the site ever since; to this day staff and tourists claim to hear screams and witness grotesque apparitions. Brave a visit to the Chapel and the Long Barracks Museum and Library. Explore more of the paranormal with Alamo City Ghost Tours. Guides lead you through graveyards, battlefields, old hotels and more. Tours feature ghost hunting equipment and stories about why San Antonio is known as one of the most haunted cities in the U.S. Why not add "surviving a real haunted city" onto your bucket list, and then have the ability to cross it off?

Parks and Recreation

Take a swim in a lake shaded by cypress trees at San Pedro Park, the second-oldest park in the U.S. Check out the San Antonio Zoo, ranked one of the best in the nation with more than 3,500 animals representing 600 species. Walk along the San Antonio River in a beautiful park-like setting that winds its way through the city. Downtown, the river is lined with bustling restaurants, galleries, shops and attractions like the Aztec Theater, the only surviving exotic-themed movie palace in Texas. Events include arts and crafts shows, music celebrations, and a host of festivals. Perfect for those wanting to broaden their knowledge of the arts and of history!

Look and Learn

For spectacular views of Alamo City, ride up the 750-foot Tower of the Americas and enjoy fine dining at the new Chart House Restaurant as well as breathtaking scenery from the revolving observation deck. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the Witte Museum, San Antonio's premier museum of South Texas history, culture and natural science. Located on the banks of the San Antonio River, the Witte offers permanent and travelling exhibits as well as a super-fun H-E-B Science Treehouse with four levels of hands-on displays. Who doesn't like to touch things in museums?

Eats and Treats

Get to know the heart of the city through San Antonio Foodie Tours, an outfit that offers a variety of cultural and culinary experiences from restaurant tasting tours to ranch and rodeo visits! Sample such local delicacies as fish tacos, prickly pear margaritas and smoked brisket smothered in 'secret recipe' Texas BBQ sauce. Each tasting tour is different so you can go on more than one. This is perfect for those epicurean travelers who like a taste of adventure - both for the taste buds and for the soul. Get off the ol' dusty trail and step back in time for a brew at the Buckhorn Saloon and Museum, offering both history and classic Texan Fare. Don't forget to check out our article on beer while travelling, and remember to ask what's on tap!

Grover Beach Destination Guide

Why Grover Beach? Located along the seaside in the state of California, Grover Beach is a city in the San Luis Obispo county. The distance the city retains from the two major metropolitan areas of California - San Francisco and Los Angeles - allows it to keep a rural character and stay nature-lover friendly. If you fly into one of those major airports, renting a car would be in your best interest. You could also book a connecting flight to either SBP or PRB airports - ask your travel agent for more details. Some of the beauty of Grover Beach is it's proximity to the other communities such as Pismo Beach, Los Osos and San Simeon. The area attracts tourists based on it's moderate coastal climate, drive-on beach and diverse activities.

Nature Delights

When you're in the SLO County, or staying in Grover Beach - what can you do? A place designed for nature lovers, I hope you like exploring! Head over to Bishop Peak for some of the best views around. Bishop Peak is the tallest of the "Nine Sisters", a chain of peaks running to Morro Bay. Looking like a bishop's miter, locals of the area call it Bishop's Peak. The peak is just over 1,500 feet.

Interested in something different? Try the Oceano Dunes - a 5.5 mile beach open for vehicle use, and 1,500 acres of sand dunes for off-road recreation that attracts people from all over North America. The Oceano Dunes are the only park in California where vehicle use is permitted, meaning that passenger cars can easily be driven on the Northern area of the beach. Surfing, swimming, surf fishing, horseback riding and bird watching are also available. For more information on the Oceano Dunes, click here.

Los Osos's Montaña De Oro features over 8,000 acres of rugged cliffs, secluded sandy beaches, streams, canyons and hills, and includes the over 1,300 foot Valencia Peak. A nature lover's dream found in one amazing place!



It's Not Just Nature

For those who want something off the beach and mountains, try Hearst Castle in San Simeon. A National Historic Landmark mansion, Hearst Castle was originally designed for William Randolph Hearst, the newspaper magnate. It is currently maintained as a state historic park and boasts a large collection of art and antiques. It's open for tours, and attracts approximately one million visitors per year. With art, restoration projects, antiques, history - not forgetting to mention it's beautiful gardens - Hearst Castle has something for everyone. For more information on tours and what Hearst Castle can offer you, click here.

Wine & Cheese

SLO County also offers several wineries for wine tasting - all you epicurean enthusiasts will get amazing views as you sip a choice red or white. For a complete list of wineries in the San Luis Obispo area, visit their feature wineries page on the Wine Country website. After all, California is famous for it! For food, the area offers a taste of everything! A wide variety of cuisines can be found in Grover Beach, Pismo Beach, San Simeon and more. French, Italian, Mexican - you name it, it's there - your best bet is to find local favourites, or restaurants that use local ingredients to really get a taste of California. Try using Yelp to find local restaurants in the city you're in at the time. Pismo Beach is home to several small cafes and restaurants that are locally owned, such as Mon Ami and the Honeymoon Cafe.

Cruising China

China is one of the most fascinating destinations on earth. When you visit China you will marvel at its geographic diversity and the mighty Yangtze River. See the contrast between ancient Chinese culture and its more recent entrepreneurial spirit. Be inspired by majestic landscapes and impressive historical sites. And when you cruise China, all the while you’ll enjoy the comfort of your luxurious hotel on the sea!

China cruises take you to the highlights of China. Depending on the holiday you may visit:

Beijing – China’s former imperial capital whose rich history dates back more than 3,000 years. The Forbidden City is characterized by grand palaces and courtyards. Visit the famed Tiananmen Square, the Imperial Summer Palace and its stunning lakeside Chinese gardens. Take an excursion to the Great Wall of China a 4,000-mile-long series of sandstone and earthwork fortifications built and maintained between the 5th century B.C. and the 16th century A.D.

Xi’an - From 618 to 907 A.D., this dynasty presided over one of China’s most glorious cultural periods spreading its influence throughout Asia into Europe and Africa. Xi’an is home of the Terracotta Warriors, 8000 life-sized terracotta infantrymen still guarding the tomb of the first Quin Emperor.

Guilin - one of China’s most scenic areas. Pass spectacular limestone peaks on a trip down the Li River.

Shanghai - China’s largest city and one of the world’s most important ports. See the modern metropolis of the financial district juxtaposed with the older sections of the city. Head to the Shanghai Museum and see its ancient ceramics, bronzes, calligraphy and other artifacts.

Lhasa (Tibet) - the economic, spiritual and cultural centre of Tibet. Highlights include the 1,300-year-old Jokhang Temple, one of Tibet’s most sacred sites; the Tibetan Museum; Potala Palace, winter home of the Dalai Lama since the 7th century; and Sera Monastery, an active Buddhist temple.

Kayaking Desolation Sound

Canoe and kayak vacations in BC are unforgettable. The different mountain ranges act as backdrops painting a canvas of blues and purples, the forests are a melting pot of greens and the lakes are hues of azure and deep navy blues. For sea kayaking, the BC coastline with the Pacific Ocean at its door forms long, deep fjords and inlets that are teeming with fish and the lands are abundant with wildlife.

Desolation Sound is a sea kayakers paradise. Paddling amongst the towering mountains of the British Columbia Coast Mountain range is a truly awe inspiring adventure. Desolation Sound has a Mediterranean climate which makes it the perfect place to paddle in May, June early July and September where you can count on having the best weather on the coast.

Carved into the inaccessible wilderness of the Canadian mainland over the ages, the soaring peaks of the coastal mountains tumble to the waters edge in a jumble of river mouths and small islands. The rugged terrain has stopped any road access into Desolation; kayaks are the best way to visit this majestic and unspoiled area. There are few places on earth as stunningly beautiful as Desolation Sound. This is kayaking trip where you spend more time looking up than looking down. The calm waters make this ideal for first time paddlers and the rugged mountian vistas make it suitable for anyone looking to experience some of Mother nature's most amazing works of art.

Adventure in Alaska

Alaska is a wonderful destination for adventure travel. Experience majestic wildlife and amazing scenery in this breathtaking destination. If you're planning a trip to Alaska, make sure you check out these national parks:

Katmai National Park

At over 3.5 Million acres, Katmai National Park is home to the largest brown bear population in the world, holds the spawning grounds of literally millions of sockeye salmon, and contains within its wild borders the unaltered evidence of one of the world's most powerful volcanic eruptions ever recorded. Although created in 1918 to preserve the Valley of 10,000 Smokes, a landscape completely changed by the 1912 Novarupta eruption, Katmai National park is most known for its majestic Brown Bears, most notably those at Brooks Falls. Whether backpacking the austere landscape of the Valley of 10,000 Smokes, bear viewing at a remote camp along a salmon choked river, or padding along the park’s 400 miles of coastline, Katmai National Park remains one of the most spectacular parks in!

Kenai Fjords National Park

An area of ever changing landscapes, Kenai Fjords National Park is as diverse as the wildlife that calls it home. From its miles of coastline to surreal glacially carved valleys, this National Park gem is not to be missed. Best explored by kayaks, the rich waters of Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords National Park are home to humpback and orca whales, playful dall porpoises, and countless avian residents. While brown bears explore the tidal flats and rivers, mountain goats perch on the sheer cliffs of the towering mountains above. With virtually unlimited space for exploration, Kenia Fjords beacons the adventurer in all of us. Whether you want to go hiking at the Harding Ice Field, the Exit Glacier, or go kayaking in Kenai Fjords, you will definitely walk away with amazing memories.

The Sea to Sky Rail Journey

The Rocky Mountaineer is an amazing way to travel from Vancouver to Whistler or vice versa. It’s comfortable, stress-free and you’ll enjoy breathtaking scenery every step of the way.

The three-hour train trip takes you from the beautiful coastal city of Vancouver, through scenic Howe Sound and the spectacular Cheakamus Canyon. Howe Sound is North America’s southernmost fjord and is located northwest of Vancouver. Views of the sound are absolutely stunning from the Rocky Mountaineer. The Rocky Mountaineers Sea to Sky Climb is the most comfortable and intimate way to explore Cheakamus Canyon. Poke your head out the window and take in the dramatic scenery below.

Next, the train takes you across a trestle bridge and past the jagged snow-capped peaks of the Tantalus Mountains – a small but spectacular range of mountains in British Columbia. Pass by an old extinct volcano, before finally arriving in the mountain landscape of world-renowned Whistler Village. Whistler co-hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics with Vancouver, and is the ski capital of Canada.

For more information about this rail journey call 1-800-800-7252.

Things to do in Kelowna

Swimming in Kelowna

If the weather allows, and between June and September this is highly likely, swimming will no doubt be on the agenda. The H2O centre on Gordon Drive offers great entertainment for those wishing to cool off, with slides, rapids, hot tubs, a wave machine, a surf simulator, and an Olympic-sized pool. This is one of many indoor pools in the area, with The Johnson-Bentley Memorial Aquatic Centre catering for those on Westbank who would prefer not to drive.

Beaches in Kelowna

If an indoor pool is not the right environment, Kelowna does rest on the edge of the 84 mile Okanagan Lake, and so there are plenty of beaches to relax on. City Park is perhaps the most central, and boasts acres of grassy shade, as well as sports fields and a water park for children. Gyro Beach on Lakeshore Road has multiple volleyball courts and refreshments available from the red apple stall, or for a quieter sand and water combination, try Gellatly on Westbank.

Extreme Sports in Kelowna

With such a vast lake, the Okanagan Valley hosts a variety of water sports during the summer months. Jet-skis are readily available for rent, as are light watercrafts with a range of pull-along floats. Away from the water, there are places such as Silver Star Mountain Resort that offer rigorous tracks for mountain/quad-biking, although they are a little further away from Kelowna city centre. For the winter months, Big White Ski Resort promotes all types winter sports, and offers ski/board hire as well as lessons for all ages, and even horse/dog sleds.

Indoor and Evening Activities in Kelowna

With such an active populace, there is also a variety of local activities that do not rely on the weather. Within Kelowna city limits there are multiple cinemas, bowling alleys, restaurants and bars. Earls on Bernard Avenue offers dining with a view of the lake, and is a matter of metres from the Paramount Theatre, which shows late night movies on occasion.

If restricted by a budget, there are still countless opportunities to enjoy the Kelowna cityscape. Knox Mountain and Mission Creek present public parks or countryside treks, while downtown Kelowna tends to host many types of evening entertainment during the summer. Any time of year, the vibrant Canadian city of Kelowna is able to provide leisure endeavors for all.

Touring Ladakh by Bike

Ladakh is a part of Jammu and Kashmir in India and is situated at an altitude above 10000 ft. It is also known as Little Tibet. In the summer the climate ranges from 15ºC to 30ºC in the day and the nights tend to be below freezing level. Most of the inhabitants of this region are Buddhist and they follow Tibetan culture. Tourism is one of the increasing scopes of income for people in Ladakh. It is the second coldest inhabited place in the world.

Touring Leh Ladakh on bike is an amazing experience for people who love an adventure. Ride through beautiful villages and past Buddhist temples and gaze up at breathtaking snow-capped mountains as you tour this amazing region.

Best time to tour Leh Ladakh is from June to September, as the weather is much nicer. It is always recommended to hire a good bike tour operating company rather than simply going on your own. At times it can be very difficult to ride as the roads tend to be rough and will be unfamiliar to you. Tour companies have an extensive knowledge of routes and will analyze the conditions every morning to ensure that you don’t travel down a blocked road. Also, tour companies often bring along a support car for luggage which makes your ride much more comfortable.

Riders touring Leh Ladakh must be excellent bikers. This is not a route for beginners by any means.

Family Travel Tips

Children’s initial excitement over family vacations can quickly turn to restlessness once the car ride begins. Careful packing and creative planning can make traveling more fun and less stressful for both you and your kids.

Try these fifteen helpful hints from the revised and updated edition of “Practical Parenting Tips” by Vicky Lansky to keep kids entertained and well behaved on the road.

Restlessness

• Change seating arrangements occasionally. One adult in the back seat for all of half of a trip usually makes for a pleasant journey.
• Stop periodically to run and play with your kids. The break will be good for everybody. Pack a bottle of bubbles or a package of balloons in the glove compartment. Stash a Frisbee, ball, or jump rope under a seat.
• Announce a treat for the end of the day so everybody will have something to look forward to (a swim in the pool, dinner at a favorite restaurant, and so on).

Back Seat Bickering

• Stop the car and pull over when fighting begins and don’t go again until it ends. Get out of the car, if necessary, until your kids have quieted down.
• Let kids know that fighting endangers everyone in the car. Consider deducting something from their allowance or withholding privileges.

Food

• Carry a supply of small paper plates or coffee filters with little slits in the center. Put the sticks of Popsicles or ice cream bars through the slits, and there will be less mess on car seats and fingers.
• Cut sandwiches in different shapes for easy identification: triangles for those with mustard, rectangles for those with mayonnaise, and so on.
• Avoid taking very salty foods in the car; they inspire lots of drinking-and lots of rest stops.

Beverages

• Put liquids in well-washed plastic lemon or lime juice dispensers. (Remove the inserts with a sharp pointed object, replace after filling, and screw the caps back on.) If you freeze them before you leave, the drinks will stay cool as they melt.
• Satisfy both hunger and thirst with grapes. Older kids may prefer frozen grapes. (Always cut them in half for toddlers.) Oranges serve the same purpose, but they’re messier.
• Keep flexible straws in your purse. They make it easier for children to drink from cups in a restaurant or car seat.

Activities

• Draw faces on your child’s fingers or hands (or your own) with washable markers. Enjoy puppet “conversations” or stories!
• Store colored pencils, markers and coloring books in a metal cake pan with a sliding cover. (Crayons melt in the summer heat.) The closed top provides a work surface.
• Buy postcards at your favorite places while traveling. Write down the day’s activities on the back of the cards. Put them in a scrapbook you’ve brought along, or mail them to your home address.

Adventure in New Zealand

New Zealand is a land of fantastic diversities and offers adventures on the water, land and in the air. A huge range of adventures are available – everything from walking and hiking, bicycling, ecotourism, zoos and wildlife parks, to skiing and snowboarding in the wintertime.

Here are a couple of handful of adventure travel tips for the North Island of New Zealand – some activities and adventures are not for the faint hearted visitor – so be aware of the following:

Zorbing in Rotorua
Kiwis are famous for their strange inventions; one of them is called zorbing. You are locked inside a giant transparent ball and then pushed down a hill. This adventure is loads of fun; however I do not recommend eating a big plate of pasta beforehand. Big mistake!

Diving at Poor Knights Islands
This is one of the top ten dive sites in New Zealand. The Poor Knights are home to many beautifully colourfed fish. Dive around sunken shipwrecks and see how many different types of fish you can count! This is a great diving spot for divers of all levels.

Caving at Waitomo
The Waitomo Caves are a great place to work test any fear of confined spaces. There are many different caves to choose from and lots of activities. Try abseiling, blackwater rafting or just admiring the strange yet wonderful rock formations.

Hiking in New Zealand
One famous hike is the Tongariro Crossing at Tongariro National Park in the heart of the North Island. However, there are many great hikes and different terrains in New Zealand. Chances are that you will get wet and dirty as rain is fairly common, even in the summer, and the trails tend to be quite muddy. So, come prepared!

New Zealand offers a wide variety of fantastic adventures and cultural attractions nationwide such as museums, art galleries, thermal resorts, food and wine tours, uncountable restaurants and wineries where you can rest and unwind from an exhilarating day of adventures wherever you happen to be.

Whale Watching in Victoria

Victoria BC whale watching is a unique opportunity not to be missed! It is quite popular amongst tourists as it is not very often that people get the chance to immerse themselves in nature in such an intimate way. Seeing the beautiful marine creatures in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience for many travellers.

Orca Spirit offers 3-hour Victoria whale watching tours, with the prime months for sightings being April to October. The spring/fall tours leave at 9am and 1pm, and the summer tours depart at 9am, 1pm, and 5pm. For those who book in advance, additional tour times may be accommodated, and large bookings can arrange for flexible departure times. There are three pods of resident orcas in the Juan de Fuca and Haro Straits, which equates to frequent sightings. The whale watching tours have a high success rate of 95%.

Harbour porpoise, Dalls porpoise, Harbour and Elephant seals, otters, and marine birds are also often spotted on tours. There is a chance of seeing Humpback, Gray, and Minke whales as well. All in all, there are many great sights to take in–from the oceanic wildlife to the gorgeous seascape.

Orca Spirit presents you with two choices of vessels: a zodiac or a larger covered boat (both have onboard washrooms). The open zodiac offers adventure and thrills as the wind whips through your hair, and the covered boat has luxurious indoor seating, comfort, and a liquor license! The covered boat is recommended for those who have bad necks or backs, pregnant women, and anyone whose health is generally frail. Kids under the age of six are only allowed on the covered boat.

In addition, custom charters can be booked for larger groups in the following vessels: the zodiacs, which hold up to 12 people, are zippy little boats that manoeuvre easily and offer an exhilarating ride; the Pacific Explorer holds 70 passengers and has all of the amenities; the Orca Spirit, the company’s signature vessel, was designed specifically for whale watching, maximizing comfort and safety (holds 45 passengers).

Germany's Romantic Road

Have you traveled the Romantic Road in Germany? Checkered with sunflowers, castles, vineyards and multi-colored autumn trees, the "Romantische Strasse" is "one of the most scenically beautiful" according to Frommers.

A trade route during the middle ages, Germany's Romantic Road still retains much of its medieval character. The road often winds through forgotten sections of countryside, connecting walled towns and picturesque villages. Travelers may enter a town through an arched gateway complete with guard towers. Inside, you will find gothic cathedrals, half-timbered fachwerk houses, beautiful historic hotels and often a medieval festival. Fairytale castles like Neuschwanstein and the Alps complete the charm.

Stay at least one or more nights in a historic hotel in Rothenburg o.d.T. -- the best preserved medieval town in Germany. The sparsely populated Rothenburg - Weikersheim region has an abundance of historic sights including a palace with the best Baroque Garden in Germany. Farther south at the foot of the Alps, you will find Ludwig II's fairytale Castle Neuschwanstein and the popular Peforming Arts Center Neuschwanstein. In addition to numerous castles, the Füssen - Reutte region offers spectacular mountain views and a host of outdoor activities like skiing, hiking and sailing as well as fine vacation hotels. Many hotels offer rooms with a view in addition to health, fitness and wellness programs. Don't hesitate to take a walk outside a village into the surrounding farm fields, forests, and mountains. It is easy to find a pleasant spot, where you hear nothing but the birds and the wind.

Adventure in Aruba

One of most beautiful islands on the Caribbean, Aruba is tiny by comparison to neighboring islands but a giant in adventure. Like many of the surrounding islands, Aruba has turquoise waters and white sand beaches that invite visitors to take a step away from the many other modern attractions.

But if you are looking for an adventure, the comparison stops right there. Aruba has forty-two different dive sites that make the island a diver’s haven. If you want to discover the secret treasures of Aruba’s underwater world that are hidden from the landlubber, scuba-diving is a must. Exotic coral reefs, teeming with marine life, a variety of tropical fish parading in vibrant colors, manta rays, barracudas and other sea creatures, are seen at close range for a spectacular show under the sea. The opportunity to explore sunken ship wrecks of World War II vintage only serves to make the experience more unforgettable.

Aruba, with its trade winds, is also perfect for sailing and windsurfing. Those who like staying close to shore can enjoy snorkeling which affords a magnificent view of the coral formations and marine life. Kayaking along the coast provides a breathtaking sight of mangrove forests and secret caves.

Fishing charters in Aruba offer an exciting adventure visiting the marine life and witnessing one of the most valued adventures in the island. Whatever fishing charter you choose, you will surely enjoy the adventure knowing that the Aruba waters give you the opportunity to catch trophy fish. At the same time you will be fishing with some of the best crews that you may ever encounter. Arranging passage on one of Aruba fishing charters can lead to a day of sun, fun and excitement when you reel in a mahi mahi.

What if you like land? Well, there is plenty of adventure for you to enjoy. Horseback riding through the diverse landscapes, from the sand dunes to the desert-like plains allows you to discover the untamed beauty of Aruba’s wildlife.

If you’re a fan of those SUV commercials that show a vehicle ascending a peak overlooking the ocean, then rent a four-wheel drive for an island tour along the North coast with its rugged terrain, giant cacti and the popular divi-divi trees. A top tourist attraction is the Natural Bridge, the Caribbean’s highest and most impressive coral structure that stands twenty-five feet above sea level.

Want to go underground? Exploring Aruba’s subterranean caves shows a different landscape from those famous white beaches. Spelunking offers another view of Aruba’s exciting and mysterious side. Secret caves sprinkled throughout the shoreline make for fascinating exploration. Legend has it that these caves were made by the pirates of the Caribbean as their hideouts, a story which adds a touch of romance and adventure when visiting the caves.

An adventure vacation in Aruba can give your Caribbean vacation an extra-special memory. Exploring and discovering the exciting side of Aruba may be what your lifestyle needs. Remember to bring a camera and take pictures to create your own travel log that you can share of your exciting Aruba adventure.

What’s a bucket list?

A bucket list is a list of things you want to do before you die. For some people, it’s the crazy, wild and exotic. For others, it could be learning how to dance, draw, or cook. Why not combine your bucket list with travelling? Learn how to cook on an epicurean cruise, and see a country you’ve always dreamed of visiting at the same time! Sky dive in western Europe, learn to draw in the Mediterranean next to the beautiful ancient architecture, or find your dancing feet in Spain! Unsure of where to start? Think of some places you’ve been wanting to visit, and things you’ve been wanting to try, and us at Lloyds can help you plan the perfect holiday that knocks two points off your bucket list in one go!

Still stuck? Check out our adventure specialist, Lesli’s, top places to go before you die:


Torun, Poland - the birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus, this medieval city dates back to 1100BC and was home to the Teutonic Knights, Franciscan monks and Dominicans.

Bagan, Myanmar – this ancient capital of Mandalay although not designated as a World Heritage Site, should be.

Ajanta Caves, India - these rock cut cave monuments contain paintings and sculptures considered to be masterpieces of both Buddhist and universal pictorial art. These caves were hidden amongst jungle growth until they were discovered in 1819.

Banaue Rice Terraces, Philippines - these 2000 year old rice terraces are commonly referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World by the locals.

Meteora, Greece – these ‘suspended rocks’ are one of the most important complexes of Eastern Orthodox monasteries in Greece.

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka - Sigiriya, Lion’s Rock is an ancient fortress and palace and once a monastery. It is one of the seven World Heritage Sites of Sri Lanka.

Valley of Flowers, India – this beautiful high-altitude Himalayan valley is splashed with colour of hundreds of different flowers. The valley was declared a national park in 1982 is now a World Heritage Site.

Tower of Hercules, Spain - this ancient Roman lighthouse sits on a peninsula in north-western Spain and is still used as a lighthouse!


So what’s on YOUR bucket list? Let the Lloyds Travel experience take you there.

Top Adventure Travel Spots in Asia

Asia is home to fascinating cultures, ancient sites and an abundance of adventure travel opportunities. From wildlife watching to biking and trekking there is something here for everyone.

Perhaps the most visited region of Asia is South-East Asia. With some of the friendliest people, some of the worlds most beautiful beaches, and with such amazing cuisine, it’s no wonder that South East Asia keeps us coming back for more. Travellers to the region can discover many activities such as trekking, diving in coral reefs, kayaking by limestone pinnacles and much more.

For the ultimate in Asian adventure travel opportunities you can also visit Central Asia. This region of Asia is home to many “off the beaten track” adventures.

Below are some of the top Asian adventure travel destinations:

1. See orang-utans in Malaysia - Set in the lush 4,300-hectare Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, the Sepilok Orang-utan Sanctuary attracts travellers and researchers alike, giving them the opportunity to get face to face with orang-utans up close in their natural habitat. A boardwalk leads you to a viewing gallery and feeding platform where the apes are fed milk and bananas twice a day by rangers. Feeding time also attracts long-tailed macaques to the area.

2. Explore Angkor Wat - There are countless temples at Angkor but the main one of course, is Angkor Wat itself. Angkor Wat is regarded as the masterpiece of Khmer architecture. Discover the walled city of Angkor Thom; The Baphoun, an 11th century temple with a 131 ft reclining Buddha; the Bayon, famous for its superb bas reliefs and mysterious faces and Ta Prohm, still cloaked in jungle.

3. Volunteer in Borneo - Immerse yourself in the culture and live and work with the local communities and wildlife of Malaysia.

4. Cycle in Vietnam - 30,000,000 Vietnamese can’t be wrong - handle-bar height gives you the best view of Vietnam. Cycling through this beautiful country provides opportunities to meet the local people and experience the local culture in a way that wouldn’t be possible otherwise.

5. Swim with whale sharks in the Philippines - Swimming with a whale shark, locally known as Butanding (scientific name: Rhincodon typus) is the epitome of wildlife encounters - the sheer size of the largest fish in the ocean will start your adrenaline pumping. An experience of a lifetime!

With so much to offer it’s a small wonder visitors return to this part of the world many times over!

Planning for Family Travel

When preparing to travel with a family, there can be a multitude of different things to sort out – from tickets to taxis to the airport, as well as packing clothes, equipment and toys in between.

In amongst all the hassle of packing, arranging and ensuring your young ones will have enough to keep them occupied until you get to the hotel or resort at your destination, the thought of arranging insurance for your holiday might slip to the back of your mind. Checking that you have adequate travel insurance before your trip is essential in order to ensure that you and your group are covered in the event of accidents and theft during your holiday.

Annual travel insurance policies can be purchased for longer periods of time, should you be making multiple trips during a short period of time. Such deals can often work out cheaper than single-trip travel insurance and can help cover all members of your group during your holiday your family from a range of factors.

When searching for coverage it is important to research different policies and the type of coverage that they offer and, most importantly, to read the small print to check for any snags which could affect any claims.

Factors will depend on location and any planned activities during the holiday. Activity holidays can be fun for all, but it is important to make sure you’re covered for sports such as jet-skiing and other activities that have an increased risk of injury.

It is also essential to ensure that your possessions are covered for the duration of your trip in order to protect against any financial loss as a result of theft, luggage and passport loss, travel delays and any other legal expenses.

For more information about insurance policies, call us at 1.800.800.7252.

Mountain Biking in Whistler

Situated about 120 km north of Vancouver on the Highway 99 is Whistler, acknowledged as the ‘Natural Year-Round Playground.’ With its soothing mountain air, pristine clear lakes, and luxuriant emerald forests, Whistler is a mecca for a host of recreational activities during both winter and summer.

During the winter, Whistler becomes a sought after destination for enjoying skiing and other activities like snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and sleigh riding. When comes to summer activities, the activities that can be enjoyed here are endless from golf, tennis, and staking to boating, fishing, and canoeing. Aside these activities, Whistler renders world class facilities for mountain biking.

As per the level and expertise of bikers, different types of mountain biking trails are available in Whistler, such as, downhill tracks, technical single track, cross country, paved valley track, and wide single track. For novice, one of the best trails to start with would be the 35 km long Valley Trail. This trail serves as a commuter trail, and a bike riding through it leads to some of the picturesque lakes, parks, and neighborhood destinations.

Another popular biking trail in Whistler is Lost Lake Park, which is surrounded by pristine alpine lake. Located within easy reach of almost all facilities in Whistler and Blackcomb, Lost Lake Park consists of a series of mountain trails, each of them rendering single as well as wide single track with plush nettle. This trail is most suitable for beginners who want to take mountain biking lessons quite easy. However, the trails found in the park are not only for beginners but also for advanced riders. For riders seeking adventure and fun, the park offers trails such as the Frank Zappa single-track.

In Whistler, beginners can also take advantage of the Whistler Interpretive Forest’s network of trails that are exclusively designed for novices, such as Highline, Far Side Trail, Riverside Trail, and Ridge Trail. Some excellent trails are available around Cheakamus Lake, which in turn is a part of the spectacular Garibaldi Provincial Park. However, the trail is packed with hikers during the summer season.

For intermediates, Whistler has some excellent options for mountain biking in the form of Trash in Function Junction, Big Timber trail in Kadenwood, and Green Lake Loop that runs across the eastern side of the Green Lake, from Lost Lake Park to Wedgemount. There are also a couple of trails, especially for intermediates, outside the boundaries of Whistler like Brandywine Falls cross country trail that runs through the Whistler Interpretive Forest, which in turn consists of a blend of double and single tracks.

Whistler is also home to a continuum of expert trails including Industrial Disease. Also, Whistler boasts of a good number of epic trails such as the 42 km long the Flank Trail and the Rainbow Trail.