10 Best Cities to Visit in China

At a time of economic recession, we fully appreciate that you are mindful of the costs associated with your vacation this year, and we are confident that you would not wish to waste your precious vacation time on a marginal destination. We at China Highlights have therefore selected for your consideration some of China's most popular destinations and China travel packages covering the places that represent the best value for the money.

1. BEIJING - Capital of China

Beijing, China's capital city for over 700 years, is rich in history, both ancient and modern. Beijing is home to some of the finest remnants of China's imperial past, most famously the Great Wall of China, China's legendary line of defense; the Forbidden City, the largest and best-preserved ancient imperial palace complex in the world; the Temple of Heaven, fascinating site of imperial worship; and the Summer Palace, a lovely imperial garden. There is also Tian'anmen Square where the People's Republic of China was inaugurated by Chairman Mao.
Beijing has a glorious past, but is by no means stuck in the past. Standing side-by-side with old Beijing's crimson palace complexes are the city's modern buildings, the super-modern Olympic Village, with the Bird’s Nest Stadium and Water Cube; the dazzling shopping malls in Wangfujing Street and the colorful entertainment center of Houhai.
Despite all the changes in recent years, traditional lifestyle has been well-preserved in the oldest neighborhoods of the city - the Hutongs, which are mazes of narrow alleyways and old single-story traditional courtyard houses. A tour by rickshaw through the Hutongs will give travelers a glimpse of old Beijing.
Beijing is the must-see city for any visitor to China. As the political, cultural, and educational heart, as well as a key transportation hub of today's China and China in the past, it displays China's past, China today, and the direction in which China is heading in the 21st century.

2. SHANGHAI - China's Largest City

Shanghai, China's biggest and most prosperous city, oozes an atmosphere of vitality which can rival New York and Paris in terms of modernity. Shanghai is the second largest 'city proper' in the world after Mumbai. As one of the world’s leading economic and business cities, Shanghai's modernity is evidenced by the ambitious skyline in the Pudong Economic Zone and the gorgeous night scenes of the Huangpu River, when the spectacular lights of its immense towers dance in unison.
Shanghai's colonial legacy combined with things Chinese has created a unique culture, which is a fusion of the East and the West. The Bund, the waterfront of the city gives a vivid illustration of the combination of east and west cultures through its large collection of colonial architecture.
However, old Shanghai is not set to disappear overnight. Beneath Shanghai's impressive modern buildings and in the back alleys, scenes of the 1920s vision of the future have been kept.
Unlike Beijing, Shanghai does not brim with many great sights. Except for Yuyuan Garden, Jade Buddha Temple, the Grand Theater and the Huangpu River Cruise, there are no other sights with great appeal. However, the beauty of visiting Shanghai lies not in scurrying from sight to sight but in the feel of the city's modern atmosphere.

3. XI'AN - A Window on China's Ancient Civilization

As the second most famous of China's ancient national capitals (after Beijing), Xi'an was the first capital of a united China in 221 BC (the Qin Dynasty). It also served as the capital during the golden eras of the Han Dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD) and the Tang Dynasty (618 - 907).
Thus Xi'an is blessed with a great number of precious relics and historical sites, with the highlights being the Entombed Warriors (a contender for the eighth Wonder of the World), the First Emperor's Tomb, two historical Buddhist Pagodas (Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Small Wild Goose Pagoda), the Great Mosque, the Ancient City Wall and the Banpo Site (a prehistoric civilization museum).
Xi'an was also the starting point of the Silk Road, an ancient trade route that extended from Asia to Europe and played an important role in economic and cultural exchange between the East and the West in ancient times.
Xi'an is, for certain, one of the most popular tourist destinations among foreign travelers, and so is included in the itineraries of many of our tour packages. At China Highlights, we feel that a tour to Xi'an is something that any tourist to China would not want to miss, as it serves as a window on China's ancient civilization.

4. GUILIN - The Most Beautiful Place in China

Guilin, with its marvelous limestone scenery, is renowned as one of the most beautiful places on earth. During his visit, former US President Nixon was inspired by Guilin's picturesque natural scenery and remarked: "I have visited more than eighty countries and over a hundred cities. I have found that no city can surpass the beauty of Guilin.” The city, nestling among the vegetation-clad pinnacles on the banks of the Li River seems to belong to a landscape painting.
Guilin City is in the center of two tourist honey pots (each about 1 hour 30 minutes by bus): Yangshuo and Longsheng, which are renowned for their beautiful scenery. Yangshuo in particular has become a paradise for backpackers, with its idyllic countryside, its easy-going atmosphere, and its Western food and beer. Longsheng is famous throughout China, if not throughout the world, for the scenic beauty of its terraced rice paddies, and for its Zhuang and Yao ethnic culture.
Guilin is a well-developed tourist city, with a plethora of retail shops that are tourist-friendly and a string of excellent hotels.
Guilin is due west from Hong Kong, from which it can be reached by air in an hour. A tour of Hong Kong can be easily combined with a Guilin tour .

5. HONG KONG - The Oriental London

Hong Kong is not like any other place on earth. As one of the most important economic and financial centers in East Asia, Hong Kong enjoys all the benefits of a dynamic and vibrant metropolis. While definitely Chinese it still enjoys a good measure of independence.
Hong Kong is a fusion of cultures. Remnants of its colonial past, British culture, and values share space with Chinese tradition. Once known an exotic port for Eastern trade, it is now famous for its movies.
Hong Kong is a world-renowned shopping paradise, known for its tourist-friendly atmosphere and numerous options. The huge shopping malls of Central, Admiralty and the street fashion factory in Causeway Bay are reasons for many travelers to make their Hong Kong trips.
Hong Kong also has some amazing beaches and natural sights for outdoor lovers. Lantau Island for example, provides a relaxing atmosphere for a holiday break.
Words fail to convey the essence of Hong Kong. If you want to appreciate this "Oriental London ", visit Hong Kong with your eyes and ears open. Check Hong Kong Tours

6. Hangzhou - Heaven on Earth

When Marco Polo came to Hangzhou in the 13th century, he declared it “the most beautiful and elegant city in the world". There is a popular Chinese saying: "Above there is heaven, below there are Hangzhou and Suzhou." Hangzhou's "heavenly" beauty attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists to its exquisite West Lake (Xi Hu) area each year to enjoy the placid lake, beautiful gardens, reflecting pools, lavish temples and lakeside teahouses.
There are many well-known historical and cultural sites around West Lake area, such as Lingyin Temple and Six Harmonies Pagoda. You can also combine a Hangzhou Tour with visits to the nearby water towns like Xitang and Wuzhen. Thousand Islets Lake and Mt. Mogan Scenic Area are also ideal weekend getaways. The most famous products of Hangzhou are silk and tea. No wonder China's National Silk Museum and National Tea Museum are all located in Hangzhou. At the tea plantation located in the hills near West Lake, visitors can learn about the processing procedures for tea and watch a traditional tea ceremony. Check Hangzhou Tours

7. Chengdu - Hometown of Giant Pandas

Chengdu is the hometown of Giant Pandas. Visitors can see Giant Pandas at Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding and Research Center, or take part in volunteer program at Bifengxia Giant Panda Base. Besides, there are many historical sites, such as Sanxingdui Ruins Museum, Qingyang Palace and Mount Qingcheng. To experience the leisurely local life, visit the Wide and Narrow Alleys, Wangjiang Park and Jinli Old Street, or sip tea while watching the magical face changing of Sichuan Opera.
Chengdu is more than 2,000 years old. Chengdu has been a famous cultural center with age-old colorful traditions of both religious and civil significance. Home of poets of old and spicy Sichuan food, Chengdu has also become a popular place for Westerners to reside.

8. Huangshan - Magnificent Beauty

Huangshan (the Yellow Mountains) is surely the most famous and most photographed and painted mountainous region in China. It was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1990.
Outstanding natural beauty is Huangshan's number one feature. Austere and majestic clean rock faces rise sheer among the mists, clung to by the hardiest of pines. This is the scenery of legends. Indeed it is said that China's supernatural ancestor, the Yellow Emperor, lived here.
The Yellow Mountains' classic four attractions are curiously-shaped pines, oddly-shaped rocks, the seas of clouds, and hot springs. There are hundreds of peaks and thousands of ravines, many made accessible by well-worn steps. Lotus Peak, Bright Summit, and Heavenly Capital Peak are the three major peaks, all rising more than 1,800 meters (5,900 feet) above sea level.
Nearby attractions not to be missed: Xidi Village and Hongcun Village present ancient China’s elegance and tranquility with well-preserved ancient folk houses and flowing rivers. Xin'an River is a recent popular hiking destination, while Tachuan Village’s autumn scenes are among the best in China.

9. Lhasa - Holy Pilgrimage Destination

Located at an altitude of 3,700 meters and with more than 3,000 hours of annual sunshine, Lhasa is famed as the “City of Sunshine”. It is the center of Tibet’s political, economic, cultural and religious activities.
More than 80% of the population is Tibetan, so the Tibetan influence is strong and evident. In Tibetan language, the name of "Lhasa" means "Land of the Gods".
There are many historic sites and famous relics in the city proper and its suburbs, among which the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery and Norbulingka are world famous. At Barkhor Street, visitors can go souvenir hunting, rub shoulders with locals, and experience the sacred "one step one bow" way to religion.

10. Lijiang - Old Ethnic Town

Three ancient districts of the city of Lijiang became a UNESCO World Heritage area in 1997. There are interesting historical sites dating back hundreds of years interspersed with high mountains, forests, wild rivers and streams.
It is the home of 12 ethnic groups, among which the Naxi ethnic group takes up more than half. The Naxi’s architecture, ancient water system, and culture are popular points of interest.
The Yangtze River passes through this area, and Tiger Leaping Gorge is a beautiful sight and a popular hiking route. The Yulong (Jade Dragon) Snow Mountains above are sacred to people in Lijiang.

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Best Tour Destinations - Travel China Guide

9 eateries of Thailand 

Thailand Travel Tips

9 eateries of Thailand

The first ráan khâo kaeng (rice & curry shop) to have been historically documented was a lean-to affair situated just outside the palace walls in 17th century Ayuthaya. It was said to have served rice and curry to palace courtiers who were too busy to prepare meals for themselves, but we know nothing else about the establishment.

Other than the simple ráan khâo kaeng in markets, Thai food wasn’t available at most pre-WWII restaurants, which tended to be either Chinese or, more rarely, European. Real Thai restaurants – with full menus of kaeng, yam, tôm yam and phàt dishes – didn’t appear until the beginning of the Cold War, when Indochinese conflict brought an influx of foreigners with diplomatic, military or commercial interests. It could be said that Thais discovered the enjoyment of a Thai meal outside their homes only after the experience received outside attention.

 

This self discovery coincided with the tremendous economic development the nation underwent between 1963 and 1997, when per capita income levels in Thailand increased 19-fold. Nowadays Thailand boasts many more Thai restaurants than any other type of eatery, and it’s hard to believe that that barely 50 years ago finding a full-menu Thai restaurant was not an easy task.
Today urban Thais eat out almost as often as they eat at home, whether it means grabbing a lone chair at a street vendor table for a quick bowl of kaytžaw, or driving in convoy with 15 family members to a pier-top restaurant for a weekend seafood feast. Watching where the Thais congregate to eat is the best way of all to determine the potential quality of a ráan aahãan (food shop) or rót khěn (vendor cart).

Ráan khâo kaeng (rice & curry shop)

 

At a ráan khâo kaeng (rice & curry shop), pots of curry are placed on a table at the front of the shop, along with a large rice cooker. Typically the pots are not on a stove or heating element of any kind. Instead the curries are cooked early in the morning and, once lidded, they will stay warm for at least a few hours. Re-heating is not usually done, as it risks drying out or over-thickening the curry (a good curry should not be thinned with water, and to add more coconut milk would risk throwing the flavour balance off). The variety of beverages available are slim, often just water, náam chaa (weak Chinese tea) and a few soft drinks or fresh fruit juices.

Ráan aahãan taam sàng (food-to-order shop)

The more generic ráan aahãan taam sàng (food-to-order shop) can usually be recognised by one or more tall refrigerated cabinets with clear glass windows at the front of the shop. These will be filled with many of the raw ingredients – Chinese kale, tomatoes, chopped pork, fresh or dried fish, noodles, eggplant, spring onions – for a standard repertoire of Thai and Chinese dishes. The ingredients are often there as a simple means of promotion, as the actual kitchen stocks many more ingredients. As the name of the eatery implies, the cook attempts to prepare any dish you can name, including any kind of rice or noodle dish as well as more complex multi-dish meals. You won’t usually find curries at a ráan aahãan taam sàng, but if they have them, the curries will usually be pre-prepared as at a ráan khâo kaeng. Most of the standard Thai dishes are available, including those in the tôm yam, yam and phàt categories. Almost any kind of beverage is available, from water and soft drinks to rice whisky and beer. Ráan aahãan taam sàng can be open at any time, although typical hours are 10am-9pm.

Ráan khâo tôm (boiled rice soup shops)

   

In larger cities you may find a few 24-hour ráan aahãan taam sàng, especially if they serve khâo tôm (boiled rice soup), a popular late night meal. In fact ráan khâo tôm (boiled rice soup shops) and ráan aahãan taam sàng frequently overlap in menu and function. A true ráan khâo tôm, however, carries a greater variety of khâo tôm accoutrements and will have more of a Chinese orientation. Both kinds of eateries often use the word phochánaa – a Thai-Sanskrit term meaning ‘meals’ – in their names, as in Sayam Phochanaa or Si Chaiya Phochanaa.

Ráan kaytžaw (noodle shop)

At the front of a ráan kaytžaw (noodle shop) you’ll see steel- or wood-framed cabinets filled with piles of snowy white noodles. Hanging next to the noodles are pre-cooked meats, such as muu daeng (strips of bright red barbecued pork) or pèt yâang (roast duck). On a lower shelf sit little piles of chopped raw meats or poultry for custom cooking and on another shelf are any accompanying vegetables. Two steel boilers near the cabinet contain plain water (for dunking the fresh noodles) and soup broth. On the dining tables you’ll find the traditional rack of condiments. Noodle shops don’t have standard opening hours. Some cater to the breakfast and lunch crowd, others are open from 11pm until dawn.

Night markets

One of the simplest and most pleasurable venues for dining out in Thailand is the night market, which can vary from a small cluster of metal tables and chairs alongside the road to more elaborate affairs that take up whole city blocks. While breakfast or lunch may be quick and functional, a meal at a night market can be an evening in itself, starting with a drink and kàp klâem (drinking food) at one vendor, followed by a slow perusal of the other vendors to put together a feast. There are two types of night market, firstly the tàlàat laeng (late afternoon market) or tàlàat yen (evening market), which sets up just before sunset and stays open till around 9 or 10pm – possibly later in large cities. The second is the tàlàat tôh rûng (open until dawn market), which begins doing business around 11pm and keeps going until sunrise.

Upscale Restaurants

More upscale restaurants – the type that would offer printed menus – are usually only found in provincial capitals or tourist resorts. Average Thais prefer to order their favourite dishes without referring to a menu at all, so these more expensive restaurants only cater to an upper-class clientele with more international tastes. It is in such restaurants that you will find air-conditioning, tablecloths, and individual soup bowls. There’s no special name for this kind of restaurant, although the owners often bestow them with Thai names that have royal or historic connotations – Wang (palace), Tamnan (epic), Than Ying (a titled lady) – or that are intentionally humble – Baan (house or village), Rai (field) or Kratip (sticky rice basket).

Reua aahãan (food boat restaurants)

Other kinds of Thai eateries fall into smaller, specialist categories. In Bangkok, for example, a number of reua aahãan (food boat restaurants) operate dining boats, which leave the restaurant’s pier once or twice nightly for a one- or two-hour cruise on the Chao Phraya River. Such restaurants offer a regular Thai menu from the restaurant’s riverside eatery. It’s a fine way to dine outdoors when the weather is hot, away from city traffic and cooled by river breezes. Several of the boats cruise under the illuminated Rama IX Bridge, the world’s longest single-span cable-suspension bridge.

Phae aahãan (food raft)

 

In provincial towns with rivers or lakes, you’ll come across the similar phae aahãan (food raft), a floating platform moored to the bank. Although the rafts never move from their moorings, the cooling breezes off the water make for a pleasant dining experience. Be especially discerning when choosing a phae aahãan, as the cooking sometimes takes a distant second place to the location. Follow the usual rule of thumb in restaurant selection – look for a crowd – and you should be fine.

Eating Alone

At ráan khâo kaeng, ráan khâo tôm and ráan aahãan taam sàng – places where the jaan diaw (one plate) meal is the norm – you’ll fit right in dining alone. Eating at places like these not only saves you from buying a dish and a plate of rice separately, but the portion will be ample for one.
At reua aahãan, phae aahãan and the more up-market restaurants, it’s fairly unusual to dine solo. It’s difficult for one person to eat a multi-dish meal alone, since most dishes are meant to feed at least two. Even if you order only one dish and some rice, it’s not much of balanced meal to Thai eyes. The most socially acceptable solution when flying solo is to stick to jaan diaw places.

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 Thailand Travel Tips

Best Tour Destinations - Travel China Guide 

20 Reasons to Drop Everything and Go to Spain 

Thailand Travel Tips (VIDEO)

Thailand Travel Tips

Best Tour Destinations - Travel China Guide

20 Reasons to Drop Everything and Go to Spain

Thailand Travel Tips

Travel to Thailand is easy with flights to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi airport leaving daily and a wide choice of airlines to get you there.  Chiang Mai, Phuket and Hat Yai airports also have immigration facilities and a small number of scheduled international flight arrivals.  Check out the cheap flights to Thailand or call us about getting a Round the World ticket with a stop in Thailand.

Thailand airports
Suvarnabhumi airportBangkok is home to two airports.  The new airport, Suvarnabhumi, opened in 2007 and is located in Racha Thewa around 30 kilometers east of Bangkok.  There are various forms of transport to and from this Bangkok airport including shuttle bus, public bus and car rental.  Usually the higher end hotels will send a representative to meet you at the airport but most visitors take a metered taxi – there is a 50 baht airport surcharge on top of your fare (which should only be a few hundred baht) plus you’ll need to pay express way fees.  The journey is usually 40 minutes to an hour depending on your destination.

Don Muang airport

Some domestic flights still operate out of the old international airport, Don Muang (24 kms north from Bangkok), so check your ticket carefully so you’re definite about which airport you should be at.  The same transport options exist out of Don Muang as they do at Suvarnabhumi and the travel time is slightly less.

Phuket airport

Phuket Airport is one of the busiest outside Bangkok.  You can get a cab, mini-bus or public bus to your destination.  Average taxi fares from the airport are a little more costly than the other airports – around 400 baht to Phuket (30 minute journey), 550 baht to Patong (40 minute journey) and 650 baht to Kata/Karon (around a one hour journey).

Chiang Mai airportChiang Mai airport is 10 minutes from the city centre and there are taxis, songteaws (an open-back taxi truck) and tuk-tuks ready and waiting.  A taxi trip will cost around 120 baht to most destinations in the city.  Many hotels will arrange free transfer to and from the airport so check with your hotel to see if they provide this service.

How to get around

Travel in BangkokThere are tons of Thailand transport options to suit all budgets and comfort levels – if you’re travelling through Bangkok the sky train is an excellent way to get around – both cheap and fast (avoid that traffic!).  Otherwise you can jump in a taxi (make sure you ask for the meter to be turned on, otherwise risk paying an inflated price) or there are plenty of tuk-tuks to take you on a fun ride.  Be sure to agree on the price before heading off and ask for a direct route or you may find you make some unscheduled stops where the driver will collect commission – this goes for both tuk-tuks and taxis.  Another novel way to see the city is to jump on an extremely cheap public bus, or head down to the Chao Praya River and get on a tourist boat or river taxi.

Travel outside of Bangkok

Travel outside Bangkok by flying into one of the domestic terminals, or take a train or bus if you’re on a budget.  You can jump on a boat to get across to the islands, and once you are there, hire a motorbike, jeep or pushbike, or catch a songtaew.  If you’re going to hire a motorbike make sure a helmet is included and cover up if you can - motorcycle accidents and injuries are so common that in Koh Phangan for example, the characteristic road burn is known as a 'Koh Phangan tattoo.'

Organised tours Organised tours are a great way to see the sites and soak up the local culture – especially if you’re travelling alone or are a first-time traveller.  Check out some of the options for tours and treks in Thailand.

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 Best Tour Destinations - Travel China Guide

 20 Reasons to Drop Everything and Go to Spain

Tips on How to Travel Europe

Best Tour Destinations - Travel China Guide

China is so large. Going to China for traveling, you will have many destinations. Some destinations are renowned for its history; some boast picturesque landscapes; some are endowed with very colorful ethnic features; and some are economically prosperous.

The Most Popular Destinations in China
Beijing, Shanghai and Xian are very famous Chinese cities in the world. Beijing, capital of the country, is the center of the country's political, economic, cultural and educational center; Shanghai is a well-developed metropolis with prosperous economy; Xian, the ancient capital of 13 dynasties, possesses abundant historical heritage.

Besides, you may go to visit Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Guilin, Lijiang, Jiuzhaigou, Sanya, Tibet or Xinjiang. Shenzhen and Guangzhou are well-known coastal cities with fast economic development; Hangzhou and Suzhou boast beautiful water towns, lakes and gardens as well as favorable climate; Guilin, Lijiang and Jiuzhaigou are famed for unique natural scenery, and characteristic ethnic minorities' culture; Sanya in Hainan Province makes you enjoy the charming tropical scenery; Tibet has mysterious religious beliefs, vast grasslands and highest mountains; and Xinjiang attracts visitors by its various ethnic minorities and numerous historical relics along the Silk Road.

Mountain Climbing

There are  many mountains on the land of China. The most notable ones are the world's highest Mt. Everest and the five sacred mountains, namely the Mt. Taishan in Shandong, Mt. Huashan in Shaanxi, Mt. Songshan in Henan, Mt. Hengshan in Hunan and Mt. Hengshan in Shanxi. Additionally, the Mt. Huangshan in Anhui and the Mt. Lushan in Jiangxi are well worth a visit.

River Cruises
The Yangtze River is the first longest river in China. A Yangtze River cruise is a memorable experience. You can get on the ship at Chaotianmen Port of Chongqing to start the downstream cruise from Chongqing to Yichang, Wuhan or Shanghai, or you can choose to go upstream. What's more, in Guangzhou, you can join the Pearl River night cruise; in Guilin, you are suggested to have a Li River cruise. The on-board vacation is interesting and relaxing.

Great Wall Trekking
Great Wall of China is amazing. Its remains can be found in Gansu, Ningxia, Shaanxi, Inner Mongolia, Shanxi, Hebei, Beijing, Tianjin, and Liaoning. If you want to have a Great Wall hiking tour, Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei are highly recommended. Especially, the Badaling Great Wall in Beijing, the Huangyaguan Great Wall in Tianjin and the Shanhaiguan Pass in Qinhuangdao (in Hebei) are must-sees. Additionally, the Jiayuguan Great Wall in Gansu is a good choice.

Silk Road Adventure
If you take a great interest in the history of the Silk Road, why not have a Silk Road adventure Xian will be your first stop as it once was the beginning of the Silk Road in the history. Set off towards Gansu and then Xinjiang. During this visit, you can find many historical sites, such as the ruins of ancient kingdoms, museums, architectures and tombs. Also you can hear lots of interesting stories like the decline of Loulan Ancient Kingdom and the construction of Bajiao Ancient City.


Ancient Towns Visiting
There are many ancient towns in China. Mostly, the ancient towns have well-preserved ancient buildings and also keep a traditional life style. The notable ancient towns include Fenghuang (in Hunan), Songpan (in Sichuan), Pingyao (in Shanxi) and Lijiang (in Yunnan).

Other Featured Tours
If you want a featured tours, you may go on a visit to Guizhou and Yunnan, which are inhabited by many ethnic minorities. In Guizhou, you can visit Guiyang, Kaili, Tongren and Bijie. In Yunnan, Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, Shangri-La and Xishuangbanna are must-see destinations.

Another kind of featured tours is coastal cities tours. You can go to Qingdao, Yantai, Weihai, Dalian, Qinhuangdao and Xiamen.


Tips on How to Travel Europe

20 Reasons to Drop Everything and Go to Spain


5 Reasons Why Travel with Kids Creates a Better Traveling Experience

20 Reasons to Drop Everything and Go to Spain

1.) The Mediterranean coast is paradise



Spain's long, sandy Atlantic beaches and cozy Mediterranean coves are rightly famous throughout Europe. That most get over 300 days of sun a year doesn't hurt either. (Photo by Naxos).


2.) ...and the mountains are just around the corner.



Trivia: Spain is Europe's second most mountainous country, after Switzerland. In Switzerland, though, you can't have a cocktail by the sea an hour away from the slopes. (Photo by Adria V. Fernandez)


3.) It has the best restaurant in the world



Ferran Adria's legendary elBulli was number one in its day, and now another Catalan eatery, El Celler de Can Roca, has taken the reins as 2013's best restaurant in the world. (Photo by guiarepsol)


4.) ...and the oldest restaurant in the world



Casa Botín is the world's oldest continuously-running restaurant (since 1725) and the painter Goya even worked there as a waiter. Plus, it serves a pretty mean roast pig. (Photo by Madrid Ciudad)


5.) There are Egyptian temples



Yup, there's actually an Egyptian temple smack in the center of Madrid. The Egyptians, of course, didn't live in Spain; the Temple of Debod was actually a gift from Egypt in 1968. (Photo by Pilar A. Bartolome)


6.) ...lots of Roman ruins...



Italy takes the cake on this one, but ancient Hispania has some fine Roman ruins of its own. Plus some, like the Roman theatre in Mérida, are still often used for performances. (Photo by Rodrigo Nieto)


7.)...and Moorish palaces.



The Moors ruled Al-Andalus for nearly 800 years and their influence is seen on everything from the language to some of Spain's most famous sights, like the Alhambra in Granada. (Photo by Eva PM)


8.) The parties are legendary



Few local parties make international news, but few places throw a party like Spain. The Tomatina is an annual fave and Pamplona's Running of the Bulls drew nearly 100,000 people in 2013. (Photo by Albergue Tourism Rural)


9.) ...and there are dozens you still haven't discovered.



Most Spanish villages have their own summer fiestas, ranging from folk dances to 5-story human statues, flaming effigies, and battles involving paint, meringue, grapes, or oranges. (Photo by Viveydeja)


10.) There are amazing cathedrals...



Spain has cathedrals of every stripe, from Gaudi's modern masterpiece, La Sagrada Familia, to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, a place of international pilgrimage. (Photo by Santcer)


11.)...1,000-year-old mosques...



Sure, Europe is full of cathedrals, but how about 1000-year-old mosques? The Mezquita in Cordoba is unique in Europe and has been a World Heritage Site since 1984. (Photo by Romaine Labadie)



12.) ...and mind-blowing water parks!



Lago Martianez, an oasis of sea water, palms, and volcanic rock in Tenerife, brings waterparks to the level of art. Plus, you can spend all day there for less than the price of your sunscreen. (Photo by Ireth)


13.) The whole place is riddled with hidden beaches



Calas (coves) are a Spanish classic. Skip the city beaches and head for the Balearic Islands and find endless gems hidden between pine forests and crystal-blue water. (Photo by Menorca en Barco)


14.) It produces the best wine in the world...



The La Rioja region makes some of the world's best vino, including Wine Spectator's Best Wine of 2013. Since most of it is consumed internally, it's still deliciously affordable. (Photo by Alava Incoming)


15.) ...and you get free food when you order a drink.



Serving something tasty with your drink is a time-honored Spanish tradition. In some cities, especially smaller ones, it's entirely possible to have a full dinner just by ordering drinks. (Photo by Analia Plaza)



16.) You can visit Salvador Dalí's house...



Come for the priceless works of art, stay for the Cadillac in the patio and giant eggs on the roof. (Photo by May Lopez)


17.) ...and eat chicken grilled on an active volcano.



You read that right. On the volcanic island of Lanzarote, you can spend the morning hiking the volcano at Timanfaya National Park then enjoy a lunch cooked over an open volcanic vent. (Photo by Naxos)

18.) People decorate their houses like this



Andalucía is full of sunny bougainvillea-draped villages, and Cordoba even holds an annual competition for the most flowery courtyards which draws thousands of visitors. (Photo by Zu Sanchez)



19.) There are countless varieties of paella



From rabbit and snails to mussels and prawns, paella comes in dozens of local varieties which are a matter of regional pride in many provinces. Lucky for us, they're all mouth-watering. (Photo by Anadel)


20.) Mediterranean lifestyle, anyone?



While many stereotypes (daily siestas, achem) are more myth than fact, the culture of long family meals, Sunday snoozes, and summers on the coast certainly has its appeal.

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Tips on How to Travel Europe

Shopping in Kyoto, Tokyo

Budget Travel Tips

Tips on How to Travel Europe

It is the dream of many people to travel Europe . Whether you’re considering spending a summer backpacking through Europe as a student or you are planning to travel Europe with that special someone, there are a few things that you should know to make your travel Europe plans more interesting and comfortable.

The first thing you should be aware of when planning to travel Europe is that such an undertaking requires an immense amount of planning. Approximately six months before you plan to take your trip, you should choose a destination or destinations. Europe is extremely large and unless you have an extended amount of time in which to travel Europe , it’s best to begin narrowing down your choices now.

After making your decisions regarding destinations, you will need to consider whether you need to begin taking language classes. If you already speak the official language of your chosen destination, that’s great. If not, it’s a good idea to at least take a beginner’s course so that you can get around more easily once in Europe .

The next step on your list of getting ready to travel Europe is to begin making travel arrangements. Most European travel arrangements will include airfare and if you start looking about three months before your anticipated departure date, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to save at least a little money. This is also a good time to go ahead and apply for a passport. Remember that some European countries are

very strict about their visa and passport guidelines. Generally, it takes at least six weeks to obtain and process a passport, but it’s a good idea to get started as soon as possible. Remember that you will need proof of your citizenship, photo identification and two recent photos in order to obtain your passport.

The area in Europe where you plan to travel and the time of year in which you plan to travel will play an important role in what you should pack. Remember that some areas of Europe can be quite cold in the winter, although they can be warm in the summer; so be sure to take this into consideration. Regardless of where your travel plans take you in Europe , it’s always a good idea to bring along a good pair of walking shoes and a rain coat.

When it comes to money, it’s a good idea to take along plenty of traveler’s checks as well as your credit card or bank debit card. You may also wish to take along some Euros for the countries that accept them. While it may be a temptation to exchange your currency before you leave for your trip, doing so is really a hassle and it’s best to wait until you arrive in your destination.

Finally, before you leave don’t forget to make extra copies of all your travel documents and make arrangements to carry your documents and money securely. The best way to make sure you do not become a victim of pick pockets or thieves while you travel Europe is to keep your items secure in a money pouch inside your clothing; never outside. 

Shopping in Kyoto, Tokyo 

Responsible tourism in South Africa 

10 Reasons To Visit Los Angeles 

Shopping in Kyoto, Tokyo

Tokyo may be the capital of but Kyoto is the country's cultural and artistic heart, with traditional shops dedicated to particular crafts. Many are family owned, some having provided shoppers with a unique glimpse of history for 10 generations.

Shoyeido (Karasuma-dori, Nijo-agaru, Nakagyo-ku, tel: 81 75 212 5590) is 's oldest incense-making company. You'll have no problem finding the shop: just follow the delicate sandalwood fragrance to the treasure trove of incense sticks, cones, coils and wood-chips. Shoyeido's master blenders use centuries-old recipes from the Imperial Palace passed down through 12 generations of the same family. The refined incense is unique, thanks to the family's insistence on using the finest natural products and hand-preparing each blend. Exquisitely designed incense stands cost from 500 yen each ($32.50). The uninitiated should try the Incense Trial Set (1,500 yen), which includes three sticks each of 10 different fragrances. A box of 20 sticks of the same fragrance costs 800 yen.

Look no further for Zen-like beauty than the many Yojiya cosmetics shops (see www.yojiya.com for locations). It was an absolute mad house the last time I was there so you’ll have to elbow your way past droves of Japanese women to stock up on Yojiya's most famous product, Aburatorigami, the secret to a perfect matt complexion. The velvety oil-blotting facial paper was originally used by geishas and now holds cult status in (3,360 yen for 10 booklets containing 20 sheets each). Yojiya's deep moisturising travel hand cream is an excellent buy at 400 yen.
 

Protect yourself from the midday sun or showers with a beautifully decorated umbrella (wagasa) from Tsujikura (Shijo-agaru, Kawaramachi-dori, Nakagyo-ku, tel: 81 75 221 4396). The bamboo and paper umbrel-las are made in Kyoto by master craftsmen and are available in small sizes for children (4,000 yen) as well as vast, decorative versions worthy of a hotel foyer. Prices rise according to size and intricacy of decoration, but a medium-sized umbrella costs no more than 6,000 yen. Tsujikura also sells an impressive range of handmade paper lanterns, from traditional round items to more contemporary styles by Osamu Noguchi. Children will love the miniature toy lanterns and umbrellas, which make inter-esting souvenirs and cost less than 1,000 yen.

Next, head for the hallowed halls of Miyawaki Baisen-an (Tomino-koji, Nishi-iru, Rokkaku-dori, Nakagyo-ku, tel: 81 75 221 0439), which has been making Japanese fans since 1823. This is not a shop for the budget con-scious, with prices starting at 3,000 yen and specially decorated fans costing from several hundred thousand yen - but the quality is outstanding.

For a unique buy, visit the indigo-dyeing workshop of Aizen Kobo (Nakasuji-Omiya Nishi, Yoko-omiyacho, Kamigyo-ku, tel: 81 75 441 0355). Aizen Kobo uses traditional Japanese methods to achieve intense blue dyes and is the acknowledged world specialist in this time-consuming hand-dyeing technique. Levi's has sent observers to learn from this master, and the British Museum has a collection of his works. Although larger items are expensive, the indigo colours never fade. A decorated noren (a traditional split-curtain hung in doorways) costs from 150,000 yen, while a kimono-style jacket costs from 300,000 yen. The shop also sells a range of smaller items such as table-mats (3,000 yen each) and toy animals (1,000 yen each).

 

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Responsible tourism in South Africa

10 Reasons To Visit Los Angeles

Traveling with Grandkids

Responsible tourism in South Africa

South Africa is one of the foremost responsible tourism leaders in the world, with dozens of gorgeous destinations where communities are uplifted and the environment is protected. You’ll return home with a higher awareness of the interconnection between people and the earth. Plus memories of a really great time.

Responsible tourism in South Africa is a marvelous way of making a positive difference through travel. You return home refreshed, carbon-neutral and culturally enriched, with memories to last a lifetime.
Broadly speaking, here are some responsible tourism guidelines:

• Avoid waste and overconsumption
• Use local resources in a sustainable way
• Maintain and encourage natural, social, economic and cultural diversity
• Be sensitive to the host culture
• Involve the local community in planning and decision-making
• Assess the environmental, social and economic impacts before embarking on tourism developments
• Ensure that communities are involved in, and benefit from, tourism.

One of the first environmental issues people think of these days is the impact of the flight. In South Africa you can offset carbon emissions while uplifting communities at the same time, through Food and Trees for Africa.

After calculating your carbon footprint via their calculator, your donation will help plant fruit and indigenous trees in schools, clinics and the backyards of impoverished areas.

Another South African responsible tourism initiative allows you to check whether the seafood item you're eyeing on the menu is endangered or not. The South African Sustainable Seafood Initiative (SASSI) gives you the simple option of texting your choice to a mobile number. Within minutes, you'll have your reply. The fish may be labeled ‘green' (feel free to order), ‘orange' (in trouble, but legal to eat) or ‘red' (kindly desist).

Becoming a responsible tourist can also be a matter of choosing the right accommodation. And there are plenty of choices, as you'll find wherever you find the RT icon on this website. Just by staying at these destinations, you can ensure minimal impact on the environment, maximum positive social spinoff, and a feel-good factor all round.

Similarly, responsible voluntourism (or volunteer tourism) is now also underpinned by standards that aim to ensure valuable input by volunteers and tangible benefits for the communities involved. As a volunteer, check that possible programmes adhere to this code. Fair Trade Tourism has an accreditation programme for volunteer projects. A list of accredited programmes is available on its website.

South Africa's environmental tourism initiatives have great social resonance so make use of them if you can.

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 10 Reasons To Visit Los Angeles

Traveling with Grandkids

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10 Reasons To Visit Los Angeles

Hit the pavement and tour Los Angeles, California, where you’ll find an intoxicating mix of showbiz, art, culture and a vibrant night life, all rolled into one of the world’s largest, most unique cityscapes.

1. Disneyland

From 1955 onwards, the landmarks of Disneyland – the Matterhorn, Sleeping Beauty’s Castle and New Orleans Square – have been as familiar and as “real” as the Eiffel Tower or the Empire State Building. A second theme park, Disney’s California Adventure, has been added adjacent to the original. Downtown Disney, a further addition, is an outdoor entertainment, restaurant and retail district. Together with the two parks and three Disney hotels, Downtown Disney forms the enormous complex called Disneyland Resort.

2. Catalina Island

This island may be only 22 miles across the sea, but it’s a world away from the urban velocity of L.A. Ferries dock in Mediterranean-flavoured Avalon, the island’s commercial hub. Most of the interior is protected nature preserve that may only be explored on foot or bicycle (permit required), or by taking an organized tour. These are excellent ways to learn about the island’s colourful history as a destination for sea otter poachers, smugglers, Union soldiers, mining speculators, and finally, tourists.

 

 

 

3. Los Angeles County Museum of Art

The largest encyclopedic art museum in the western US, LACMA was founded in 1910 and moved to its present Miracle Mile home in 1965. Its treasure trove includes paintings by Durer, Monet and Picasso; American and Latin American art; and works from the Middle East and Asia. A lively schedule of concerts, lectures and film screenings makes LACMA a community destination. The Broad Contemporary Art Museum (BCAM) opened in 2008; public spaces, gardens, and a building to house special exhibitions have subsequently been added.


 

4. The Grammy Museum

If you love music you won’t want to miss The Grammy Museum. Opened in 2008 (the Grammy’s 50th anniversary), the museum chronicles decades of popular music from all genres, and features four floors of interactive exhibits, rare collections of historical music artifacts, recording booths and a 200 seat theatre. Past exhibits have focused on legendary musicians like The Beatles, Bob Marley, Barbra Streisand and, of course, Michael Jackson. The pièce de résistance? Live performances from popular musicians, including John Legend, Ben Harper and Public Enemy’s Flavor Flav.


 

5. Griffith Park

Griffith Park is a 4,000-acre natural playground of rugged hills and gentle valleys, draped with native oak trees, manzanita, and sage and crisscrossed by hiking and horseback trails. The country’s largest urban park owes its existence to the Welsh Griffith Jenkins Griffith (1850-1919). In 1896, Griffith donated a large portion of his estate to the city with the proviso that it become “a place of recreation and rest for the masses.” Today, the park is filled with picnic areas, golf courses and tennis courts.

 

 

6. Sunset Strip

Sunset Strip has been a haven of hedonism since Prohibition days. Wedged between Hollywood and Beverly Hills, this 2.7-km of the Sunset Boulevard is crammed with hot nightclubs, hip rock venues, and fashionable boutiques. During Hollywood’s Glamour Age (1930-50), the stars trysted at the Chateau Marmont, partied at Trocadero, and talked shop at Schwab’s Pharmacy. Today’s hot spots rub shoulders with some historical landmarks.

 

 

 

7. Universal Studios Hollywood

The world’s largest movie and television studio sprang from the imagination of cinema pioneer Carl Laemmle. In 1915 he bought a former chicken ranch, brought in cameras, lights and actors and started making silent films. The theme park began taking shape in 1964. Today, Universal Studios Hollywood gets more visitors (about five million a year) than any other attraction in LA County. Among the studio’s greatest hits are Jaws (1975), Jurassic Park (1993) and Shrek (2001).

 

 

 

8. The Getty Center

An exquisite art collection, superb architecture, and lovely gardens combine with a hilltop location to create on of LA’s finest cultural destinations. Designed by Richard Meier, the Getty Center opened in December 1997 after 14 years of planning and construction. It unites the entities of the Getty Trust created by oil tycoon J. Paul Getty (1892-1976), including research and conservation institutes. At its core, however, is the museum with exquisite European art from illuminated manuscripts to Impressionistic paintings, contemporary sculpture, and photography.

 

 

 

9. Huntington Library, Art Collection and Botanical Gardens

The Huntington is one of those rare places that manages to please the eye, stimulate the mind and nourish the soul all at the same time. The former estate of railroad and real estate baron Henry E. Huntington (1850-1927), it consists of a trio of treasures: the art collections include fine examples of British, French and American art; the Huntington Library has about seven million rare manuscripts and books, including a Gutenberg Bible; and the Botanical Gardens are a fantastic feast of flora in a pleasing parklike setting.

10. Historic Hollywood Boulevard

Hollywood Boulevard, home of the Walk of Fame, has always been synonymous with the glamour of moviemaking, especially during its heydays in the 1920s and 1930s. But like an aging diva, it eventually fell out of favour, teeming with runaways, drug addicts and prostitutes. Now the heart of Tinseltown is finally cleaning up its act – the old movie palaces have received facelifts, the mega-entertainment complex of Hollywood and Highland is a major draw, and even “Oscar” has found a permanent home here.

 

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 Traveling with Grandkids

 

Advice On Travel to Costa Rica 

 

9 Reasons to Visit Turkey 

 

 

 

 

Traveling with Grandkids

Befitting their titles, grandparents and their grandchildren should engage in grand relationships. Since the dawn of man, grandparents lived in multigenerational communities, living and working alongside their children and grandchildren. They were not "in the way" or a "nuisance;" instead they served as teachers, advisers and role models - key figures that positively shaped the lives of their grandchildren.

Times have changed and families are now spread across the country, forcing grandparents to constantly seek new ways to cultivate relationships and share special experiences with their grandchildren. The answer: intergenerational travel, where grandparents plan vacations with only their grandchildren, leaving the parents at home.

Intergenerational travel is a win-win-win situation: parents get a well-needed break; grandparents get quality time with the grandkids; and the grandkids get a week without homework, learning about the world with their grandparents. Yet while more and more seniors are leading active lives, it can be difficult to match the energy and interest level of a child for an entire week.

So if you want to take a "grand" vacation but are worried about keeping a grandchild entertained, check out these trusted travel tips from the American Society of Travel Agents. Some of the most travel-wise people in the world, ASTA members know that children love shiny toys, and there is no better shiny toy than an exciting vacation with loved ones.

Tips to Travel By  Create a Multi-Generational Itinerary - Too often seniors plan activities to solely please the children, running themselves ragged to keep the trip in a high gear of constant fun. But if you become unhappy, the kids will soon follow. A travel agent will help you craft an itinerary that appeals to both generations, paying special attention to natural attractions, like mountains and canyons, and historical sites, like lost temples and medieval castles.

Consult the Parents - It may be awkward to turn to your own children for advice, but talking with your grandchild's parents is a critical step in planning a successful trip. Parents know their children's favorite activities and subjects, along with their sleeping and eating habits.

You're the Guardian, So Be Prepared - One lesson travel agents teach time and time again is to always have proper identification and medical histories wherever you go, for emergencies enjoy being unpredictable. During the vacation, you are 100 percent responsible for the children, so make sure you have their proper identification, health insurance, contact information, recent photos and notarized authorization from their parents in case they need medical attention. All identifying documents for the children should comply with the latest federal requirements for passports and other entry/exit documents. Also, it's your job to know their medications and dietary needs backwards and forwards.

Finally, some countries do not allow entry of minors not accompanied by both parents unless the children have written, notarized permission from the absent parents. The rules vary from country to country, so consult your travel agent before your trip.

Play Favorites - Since a child's energy level escalates exponentially with each additional child in the room, it's wise take no more than two grandchildren at time, or even just one. As much as you would to include all eight grandkids, in reality you should play favorites and take only a few at a time. You can always plan more vacations for the others.

Keep the Kids Excited - Just like a movie studio builds excitement for an upcoming release, so should you with your impending excursion. Have your grandchildren help plan the trip by reading guidebooks or visiting your travel agent's office together. As the date approaches, send your grandchild e-mails about the activities or maps and pictures of the destination in the mail.

Take a Warm-Up Trip - Before traveling alone with your grandchildren for an entire week or two, discover how you all travel together by taking a day trip or have them stay over for a weekend. If this short trip is more sour than sweet, maybe your grandchildren are not ready for a longer journey away from home. If that's the case, don't give up. Simply take more and more day trips until the group learns to have fun together.

Like E.T., Phone Home - An effective way to alleviate homesickness is to make periodic phone calls to the parents and let the kids gush about the day's exciting adventures. The parents will feel better knowing their children are in good hands, and you'll feel better listening to the kids rave about the activities you planned.

You Need Downtime, Too - Many places provide supervised activities for kids. If the resort or cruise offers these, take them up on that offer and get some much-needed rest.

Music to Their Ears - If you're traveling by car, especially with teens, let them enjoy their portable CD and MP3 players. Trust us - you won't like what they're listening to. And don't try and force Sinatra on a teen either. They will lean to appreciate Old Blue Eyes later in life; everyone does.

Plan B Call Your Agent
When life serves you lemons, your travel agent has a lemon squeezer, clean glasses and a bucket of ice. Many unforeseen factors - an illness, hurricanes, unscheduled closings - can dampen a vacation, no matter how thoroughly it was planned. When one of these occasions arises, stay positive, pull your travel agent's card out of your purse and give her a call. A travel agent has Plans B-through-Z at her fingertips.

Final Tip - Use a Travel Agent
Intergenerational travel is not a phrase created for this Web site; it's a gratifying market that many resorts, cruises and travel agents enjoy sustaining. If the idea of an intergenerational trip with your grandkids sounds appealing, but you feel uneasy about planning such a complex journey on your own, then turn to a trusted travel agent who specializes in family travel.

A travel agent can set up a fun-filled itinerary that will stimulate curiosity, encourage exploration and, most importantly, let you and your grandchild bond like never before. Using a world of experience, travel agents know which cruise lines, safaris or theme parks are the most family friendly, for your travel agent has most likely taken her own children there.

Ask your grandchildren if they want to see the world with you - the experience is simply priceless. Search for a travel agent that specializes in family travel today by clicking on the "Find a Travel Agent" .

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Advice On Travel to Costa Rica

 9 Reasons to Visit Turkey


What you may want to know about Belize - San Ignacio

Advice On Travel to Costa Rica

If you’re planning to travel to sometime soon, you should know that the best time to visit this fascinating country is definitely within the dry season. This time begins in Mid-December and lasts throughout April. If you opt to travel to between the beginning of the dry season and early February you can also enjoy the beautiful lush vegetation dotting the countryside along with the advantages of dry weather. You should also be aware; however, that during this time period some areas tend to be drier than others. This is especially true near Guanacaste. If you plant to travel in these areas be prepared to deal with the dust. It’s a good idea to bring along a hat and sunglasses to keep the dust out of your face and eyes as much as possible.

While it’s best to travel to during the dry season if you want to avoid the discomfort of the wet rainy season, if your primary objective is to avoid the throngs of tourist crowds, it’s definitely better to travel from May to mid-December. This time period embraces the rainy season and although it’s definitely wetter during this time period, you will gain the advantage of being able to enjoy the beautiful vegetation of Costa Rica while at its most lush and gorgeous period.

Traveling to even during the wet season can be easily managed if you known how to gauge the weather. For example, it’s typically dry and sunny in the morning, with the rains coming in the afternoon. So, if you plan to visit one of the beautiful stretches of beach in during your travels, be sure to do it in the

morning.

Getting around in can be a bit tricky, depending on the time of year that you plan to travel. Some of the roads in tend to wash out during the rainy season; particularly those that are paved without asphalt. If you want to visit some of the more rural areas, make plans to arrange for transportation with four wheel drive. Since many of the top destinations in tend to be at least a half a day’s drive apart, it’s important to take care of transportation arrangements early on.

It’s also important to know that if you choose to travel to during the rainy season, that accommodations may be limited. It’s quite common for hotels in rural areas to close for the entire rainy season.

Regardless of which time of year you plan to travel to , be aware that the temperature tends to range between seventy degrees and eighty-five degrees. Travel in the jungle means that you’ll need to be prepared to deal with intense humidity. Coastal areas tend to be even hotter, with temperatures typically reaching up into the nineties; with high humidity.

With proper advance planning, your plans to travel to will be sure to deliver a vacation that will provide lifelong memories. 

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9 Reasons to Visit Turkey

A Turkey vacation maybe the perfect choice for you because it is a travel heaven and a tourist hotspot. Turkey is one of the top ten destinations in the world, according to number of visitors and revenues. Are you still wondering “why go to Turkey?” Here are some Turkey information and the top reasons why a Turkey vacation is the ideal getaway.



1. Sun and Sea Lovers’ Paradise: The unique Mediterranean climate and beautiful nature of Turkey allows almost 6 months of summertime in southern parts, especially in Antalya and Bodrum which are the most popular “sun and sea” tourist destinations. The sandy beaches are splendid and the sea, especially the Aegean coastline, is the most amazing. It is a mildly cold sea that allows for a refreshing experience.Blue Voyage or Blue Crusing is the most favorite way to visit all the beaches with a yacht while enjoying the “turquoise” sea. This may surely be the highlight of your Turkey vacation.


2. History: Turkey is extraordinary rich in history. Did you know that Turkey hosts the most arhaeological sites in the world? Anatolia is the birthplace of many civilizations, empires, historic figures and legends. One of the oldest known human inhabited areas is in Çatalhöyük, Konya dating back to 6500 BC. Ephesus (Temple of Artemis), City of Troy,Cappadocia and the cave church of St.Peter are among some of the countless important sites to visit in your Turkey vacation.


3. Accommodation: Turkey has the most amazing luxury and boutique hotels in the world, especially in Antalya region. The lavishness and the extravaganza in these hotels are probably unmatched since most of them cater to Russian oligarchs and tourists as well. On the other side, you may find the most beautiful hotels at very affordable rates due to intense competition among travel agencies.


4. Shopping: Authentic gifts, carpets, rugs, kilims are among the tourist favorites and shopping is breeze if you know where to go. There are more artistic features and special creativity in Turkish carpets than any other carpet in the world.


5. Culture: Turkey’s population is a diverse mixture of many different ethnic origins and that shows when you visit different regions of the country. Each region has different traditions, their own arts, music and foklore, and even their eating habits are totaly unique to the region. Even though they all pride themselves in being Turks, this multicultural environment adds great richness to the country.


6. Eating: Turkish cuisine is among the best in the world. It is a fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. There are so many culinary delights like the Turkish tea, Turkish coffee and the famous Turkish delight. You can find these almost anywhere in Turkey, while the most delicious kebabs are in souteastern part. The foods that are brought in small portions before the main course are called “Meze” in Turkish and they are fabulous. They are usually consumed with the most famous Turkish alcoholic drink called “Raki” (anise flavoured national drink). It is also referred to as the “lion’s milk”. Fish also holds a very important place in Turkish cuisine and Fish restaurants and taverns can be found near the bay areas.


7. Turkish Bath – Hamam – Spa Experience: This is definitely a must if you are intending to visit Turkey. Turkish Bath or hamam as it is called here, will help you relax and unwind and get rid of all your nervous energies. A Turkish Spa is also a favorite among tourists nowadays since it combines traditional hamam experience with more Far Eastern touches like using aromatic smells and certain massages.


8. Nature Sports: If you are into nature sports you are in the right place. Hiking, trekking, mountain biking, river rafting, scuba diving, windsurfing, wave surfing, kite surfing, paragliding, parasailing, skiing, jet-skiing are among the many nature sports that you can truly enjoy in Turkey. One more Turkey information: The golfing industry has grown very fast over the last few years and Turkey established itself as one of the leading golf destinations in Europe. The golf courses especially in Belek, Antalya are spectacular.


9. Business Opportunities: Turkey is one of the largest economies in the world yet it is still considered a developing nation. This provides enormous business and investing opportunities, especially in the real estate sector. Your Turkey vacation may turn into a great investing decision as well.

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