Do you know the oldest hotel in London ?
Opening in 1837,
Brown’s Hotel on Albemarle Street
takes the prize for the oldest hotel in
London.
Hotels in London were virtually non-existent
before the railways; visitors would either rent houses or stay in coaching inns.
London is full of old building and history;
wouldn’t it be amazing to stay in one of these historical hotels
Looking for the ultimate guidebook? Check your pocket.
Navigate a city like a pro with Lonely Planet apps and ebooks. They include city guides, language translators, audio walking tours and audio phrasebooks. No internet connection required !Find the guide to match your mobile device: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/apps-and-ebooks/
Have you used any of these apps? We'd love to hear your feedback, please comment below.
25 YEARS IN BUSINESS: 1987 - 2012
This year, The Travel Group celebrates 25 years in business. When we started in this business, fax machines were considered the next big thing. We booked most hotels by Telex! Ronald Reagan was telling Mr. Gorbachov to tear down the Berlin Wall. That classics, "Walk Like an Egyption" by the Bangles was the number 1 top hit.
We've all come a long way since 1987; but the fact that companies like ours could survive all the changes and turmoil of the past 25 years says something about our loyal customers as well as our talented staff. Over the years, we've adjusted to new ways of doing business and we've refined our staff into specialists in every aspect of the travel industry, so that when you call, email, or "tweet" us about something - anything - we'll have someone who has either been there already or done it before.
Many things have changed since we opened our doors in 1987, but the one thing that has not is this: in the end it is people that count most - your employees and their customers.
Thank you for a great 25 years, we look forward to the next 25.
We've all come a long way since 1987; but the fact that companies like ours could survive all the changes and turmoil of the past 25 years says something about our loyal customers as well as our talented staff. Over the years, we've adjusted to new ways of doing business and we've refined our staff into specialists in every aspect of the travel industry, so that when you call, email, or "tweet" us about something - anything - we'll have someone who has either been there already or done it before.
Many things have changed since we opened our doors in 1987, but the one thing that has not is this: in the end it is people that count most - your employees and their customers.
Thank you for a great 25 years, we look forward to the next 25.
Red Rock Canyon, Las Vegas
I spent the last week in the beautiful Red Rock Casino at a convention, which left me no time to get out and explore the Red Rock Canyon, however I enjoyed the spectacular views from my room.
I am a big hiker in Vancouver Canada and I was hoping to have some time to check out the trails in the Nevada desert. Maybe next time.
This canyon spreads over 195,000 acres and is visited by over a million people each year, getting out to explore on hiking trails, rock climbing, horseback riding, mountain biking or just a quiet picnic to observe the nature hoping to spot some wild life in this masive Canyon.
Colleen
The Travel Group
The Travel Group
Tips for the Environmentally - Conscious Traveller
The 5 R's of Travel >> We've all heard of the 3 R's - Reduce, Reuse, Recycle - But what about the 5 R's ?
REDUE: There's a reson this "R" comes first: if you don't need it, try not to use it in the first place. When you shop for your trip, look for products with minimal packaging that can be recycled. Travel sized toothpaste tubes may look convenient, but you're not doing any favours to the environment.
REUSE: Once you've reduced the waste coming in, the next step is to reuse what you've got. Whether it's a cloth bag or stainless steel water jug, use what you already own, or find someone who can. Borrow travel gear from a friend of buy second hand.
RECYCLE: You'll find easily identifiable recycling bins throughout Vancouver, Coast & Mountains. Print your travel itineraries, plane ticket or maps at home using recycled paper.
RESEARCH: Take the time to research your destination before you go. What airlines, car rentals agencies and hotels are making efforts to "green" up? A little extra effort goes a long way.
RESPECT: Green travel is also about respecting people in the local environment. To support the local way of life and reduce your environmental impact, try to buy local foods, take tours with local operators and patronize local businesses.
REDUE: There's a reson this "R" comes first: if you don't need it, try not to use it in the first place. When you shop for your trip, look for products with minimal packaging that can be recycled. Travel sized toothpaste tubes may look convenient, but you're not doing any favours to the environment.
REUSE: Once you've reduced the waste coming in, the next step is to reuse what you've got. Whether it's a cloth bag or stainless steel water jug, use what you already own, or find someone who can. Borrow travel gear from a friend of buy second hand.
RECYCLE: You'll find easily identifiable recycling bins throughout Vancouver, Coast & Mountains. Print your travel itineraries, plane ticket or maps at home using recycled paper.
RESEARCH: Take the time to research your destination before you go. What airlines, car rentals agencies and hotels are making efforts to "green" up? A little extra effort goes a long way.
RESPECT: Green travel is also about respecting people in the local environment. To support the local way of life and reduce your environmental impact, try to buy local foods, take tours with local operators and patronize local businesses.
Balasana
Also known as Child's Pose
Rest in Child's Pose, placing your arms above your head and allowing your breath to settle into a natural rhythm. On the next few exhalations, feel your sacrum broaden and your hips relesae into the earth.
Rest in Child's Pose, placing your arms above your head and allowing your breath to settle into a natural rhythm. On the next few exhalations, feel your sacrum broaden and your hips relesae into the earth. Bhujangasana
Also known as Cobra Pose
Slide forward on your belly, placeing your hand on the ground by the sides of your chest. Keep your elbows bent. Elongate your tailbone toward your heels. Lift your spine up, supporting yourself on your hands or fingertips.
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From our clients, Greece
Lea-Anne, fell upon a great adventure while in Greece, here is her story.
We stumbled across this place, Villa Mertiza,
basically because we ran out of cash, water, petrol, sunlight all at the same
time.
We were a little silly and headed out with little cash and forgot there are NO cash machines outside of large cities, and NOBODY takes cards.
We were a little silly and headed out with little cash and forgot there are NO cash machines outside of large cities, and NOBODY takes cards.
These guys let us pitch up for
the night - explaining we had nothing on us, they said 'pay us when you get
back to England' !!!???? (Lea-Anne is Canadian)
They pointed us to a restaurant
that took cards and gave us an amazing room.
The next day he took Rup to a
cash point in a village not on any map. We bought a few t shirts and swimmers
and stayed for four nights.
Put this in your back pocket
for your own trip. It was just amazing, exactly why we love Greece.
Lea-Anne
Visit from Westjet
Kim from Westjet arrived in our office today with lunch treats and fun facts for us to learn.
You probably knew that Westjet started February 29, 1996. They had 200 hundred employees and only flew to 5 destinations. Now 8,600 people call Westjet their home and they are flying to 80 destinations, and continuing to add flights and new destinations.
They are currently working on a Regional Carrier which will be launched in 2013. And by the end of 2012, they will be purchasing their 100th plane.
They have added new flights to Whitehorse, and Chicago. And will now fly year round to Kona as well as Kaua'i. For a full list of their destinations: http://www.westjet.com/guest/en/flights/where-we-fly/route-map.shtml
~ Aloha !
You probably knew that Westjet started February 29, 1996. They had 200 hundred employees and only flew to 5 destinations. Now 8,600 people call Westjet their home and they are flying to 80 destinations, and continuing to add flights and new destinations.
They are currently working on a Regional Carrier which will be launched in 2013. And by the end of 2012, they will be purchasing their 100th plane.
They have added new flights to Whitehorse, and Chicago. And will now fly year round to Kona as well as Kaua'i. For a full list of their destinations: http://www.westjet.com/guest/en/flights/where-we-fly/route-map.shtml
~ Aloha !
Conquering Jet Lag
The jet lag is a syndrome caused by a mixture of fatigue and other symptoms caused by crossing different time zones on a long transmeridian (east–west or west–east) trips in a relatively short period of time.
1. Try to pick flights that you land in the early afternoon. When you get to the hotel, grab something to eat and head out for a walk around town. Plan on an early dinner and early bedtime -but no naps for kids or adults (babies should nap as necessary).
2. The first day is usually filled with the excitement of being in a new place – capitalize on this by scheduling time to explore the city. A good combination of walking and riding will help work off the excitement without having people tire too quickly.
3. The second full day is always the worst. Make it an easy day – no early morning or evening plans. This is a great day to hit a local park, zoo or aquarium. Expect tired (and fussy) kids and a lack of patience from the adults and try to mitigate it with fun activities and frequent snacks. Giving kids a little space (such as solo baths) will also help prevent bickering.
4. Meals are tricky as you transition through time zones. Be sure to have plenty of sweet and savory snacks on hand for off-hour hunger (including in the middle of the night!). Try to plan for more frequent, smaller meals (afternoon tea or quick stops in a pub make Europe perfect for this tip!).
5. Consider the time change when planning outings. For example, when traveling to Europe from Canada, you are likely to awaken earlier than normal. Plan for this by booking tours early.
6. Use the sun – kids naturally feel more awake when the sun is shining. Use this to your advantage by getting up with the sun and going to bed with the sun (especially in the summer).
Conquering Jet Lag
1. Try to pick flights that you land in the early afternoon. When you get to the hotel, grab something to eat and head out for a walk around town. Plan on an early dinner and early bedtime -but no naps for kids or adults (babies should nap as necessary).
2. The first day is usually filled with the excitement of being in a new place – capitalize on this by scheduling time to explore the city. A good combination of walking and riding will help work off the excitement without having people tire too quickly.3. The second full day is always the worst. Make it an easy day – no early morning or evening plans. This is a great day to hit a local park, zoo or aquarium. Expect tired (and fussy) kids and a lack of patience from the adults and try to mitigate it with fun activities and frequent snacks. Giving kids a little space (such as solo baths) will also help prevent bickering.
4. Meals are tricky as you transition through time zones. Be sure to have plenty of sweet and savory snacks on hand for off-hour hunger (including in the middle of the night!). Try to plan for more frequent, smaller meals (afternoon tea or quick stops in a pub make Europe perfect for this tip!).
5. Consider the time change when planning outings. For example, when traveling to Europe from Canada, you are likely to awaken earlier than normal. Plan for this by booking tours early.
6. Use the sun – kids naturally feel more awake when the sun is shining. Use this to your advantage by getting up with the sun and going to bed with the sun (especially in the summer).
Health and Wellness, Yoga
TODAY'S YOGA LINE UP
11:45am - 5 minute breathing exercise for Stress Relief (this is for the non Yogis)
12.00 - Yoga to bring in the Sun Energy celebrating Summer - for expansiveness, enthusiasm and a clear, action-oriented mind.
1.00pm - Yoga - Fun Aerobic Workout to prepare us for Sunday`s Walk-Run. (yogis and non yogis)
3.30pm - We will have a 15minute breathing exercise to Fight Brain Fatigue (yogis and non yogis)
11:45am - 5 minute breathing exercise for Stress Relief (this is for the non Yogis)12.00 - Yoga to bring in the Sun Energy celebrating Summer - for expansiveness, enthusiasm and a clear, action-oriented mind.
1.00pm - Yoga - Fun Aerobic Workout to prepare us for Sunday`s Walk-Run. (yogis and non yogis)
3.30pm - We will have a 15minute breathing exercise to Fight Brain Fatigue (yogis and non yogis)
Wickaninnish Inn
In celebration of The Travel Group's Health & Wellness week, we invited the Wickaninnish Inn to show us their award winning spa !!
Located on Vancouver Island's magnificently rugged west coast, the Wickaninnish Inn is minutes from the picturesque village of Tofino. Surrounded by ocean with an old growth forest as a backdrop, the Wickaninnish offers a spectacular view from every room on site.
Pointe Restaurant: Situated on the jagged rocks overlooking the Pacific ocean, the Pointe Restaurant provides diners with a 240-degree view of the pounding surf. Enjoy a showcase of coastal seafood and fresh farm ingredients while listening to the ocean waves. http://travelgrestaurants.blogspot.ca/2012/04/pointe-restaurant-at-wickaninnish-inn.html
Ancient Cedar Spa:
Voted #1 Hotel Spa worldwide by Travel & Leisure readers, and was just voted one of the top spas in Canada by Conde Nest Gold, 2012. The Ancient Cedar Spa is the pearl within the oyster of the Wickaninnish Inn. Treatments utilizing indigenous elements to esthetics or calming yoga sessions, the emphasis is on relaxation and rejuvenation. Nestled at ocean level, the spa is sheltered by the forest fringe and looks out to the waves of the ocean. Make sure to book far in advance, it's a hot item.
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Located on Vancouver Island's magnificently rugged west coast, the Wickaninnish Inn is minutes from the picturesque village of Tofino. Surrounded by ocean with an old growth forest as a backdrop, the Wickaninnish offers a spectacular view from every room on site.
A kid and dog friendly place, the Wickaninnish has welcome packages for the dogs on arrival, they have dog wash stations complete with towels and hose to dry your pooch off after a day on the beach.
The resort has 2 cars on site, which are available for hire, as well as 25 bikes. Rooms are complete with rain jackets and wellingtons, for those stormy days.
There is no shortage of things to do while at the Wickaninnish. Hire a surf instructor for the day, enjoy a kayak on the ocean, or hike in the forest. There is a carving shed on site, where a local carver is always up to something, have a chat he loves to talk. Every Saturday there is a hosted nature walk to learn the names of the local plants.
Pointe Restaurant: Situated on the jagged rocks overlooking the Pacific ocean, the Pointe Restaurant provides diners with a 240-degree view of the pounding surf. Enjoy a showcase of coastal seafood and fresh farm ingredients while listening to the ocean waves. http://travelgrestaurants.blogspot.ca/2012/04/pointe-restaurant-at-wickaninnish-inn.html
During the summer months, every other night on the beach is a Crab cookout.
Ancient Cedar Spa:
Voted #1 Hotel Spa worldwide by Travel & Leisure readers, and was just voted one of the top spas in Canada by Conde Nest Gold, 2012. The Ancient Cedar Spa is the pearl within the oyster of the Wickaninnish Inn. Treatments utilizing indigenous elements to esthetics or calming yoga sessions, the emphasis is on relaxation and rejuvenation. Nestled at ocean level, the spa is sheltered by the forest fringe and looks out to the waves of the ocean. Make sure to book far in advance, it's a hot item..
Healthy Snack, Wine & Cheese
Today's Healthy Snack
Top 3 Benefits
Cheese
provides a source of Calcium and Protein.
Helps reduce the risk of Coronary heart disease.
Help lower the risk of a stroke.
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Healthy Snack, Almonds
Today's healthy snack
Top 3 Benefits
Helps lower Cholesterol.
Helps lower Cholesterol.
Reduce Your Risk of Heart Disease.
Rich in Vitamin E, Magnesium and Fibre.
Healthy Snack, hard boiled eggs
Healthy snack of the day
Top 3 Benefits
Provides a complete Protein
(critical for muscle growth and repair of tissue)
Helps improve eyesight
Provides a source of Vitamin D
(helps increase bone strenght)
.
(critical for muscle growth and repair of tissue)
Helps improve eyesight
Provides a source of Vitamin D
(helps increase bone strenght)
.
Healthy Snack, Fruit
HEALTHY SNACK OF THE DAY
Top 3 Benefits
Helps reduce Cholesterol.
Reduces and protects against
diseases such as Diabetes and Cancer.
Rich in Vitamins (C,E,D and B complex).
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Healthy Snack, Breakfast
today's healthy snack is sponsored by
air canada
Top 3 Benefits
of eating
a healthy breakfast
A
valuable role in reducing obesity & decreasing the risk of heart disease.
Provides a boost in energy as your brain needs
glucose from food to function.
Eating
breakfast can reverse the effects of fasting: irritability and fatigue.
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Traveling to the USA
Attention Cross Border Shoppers!
For Canadians traveling to the USA, things just got a little bit better. June 1 2012, the travel exemptions went up!
24 hr exemption is $200 (up from $50)
48 hr exemption is $800 (up from $400)
7 day exemption is $800 (up from $750)
For Canadians traveling to the USA, things just got a little bit better. June 1 2012, the travel exemptions went up!
24 hr exemption is $200 (up from $50)
48 hr exemption is $800 (up from $400)
7 day exemption is $800 (up from $750)
Are you a thrill seekers?
"Austrian downhill coaster is nevertheless terrifying.”
The coaster located Mieders, Austria, starts at the top of a
mountain, reachable only by a cable car.
The coaster located Mieders, Austria, starts at the top of a
mountain, reachable only by a cable car.
It’s pretty simple: single
pipe, single person, single giant
sloping, winding hill. But throw hundreds of pine trees whizzing past you on tight
bank curves and it gets a bit scarier. Oh, and try not to clutch the brake — that’s right no brake
sloping, winding hill. But throw hundreds of pine trees whizzing past you on tight
bank curves and it gets a bit scarier. Oh, and try not to clutch the brake — that’s right no brake
World's Largest in Canada
Have you ever wonder where the world's largest hockey stick & puck live ? Well here is a listing of some great GIANT hot spots to visit while out travelling !
World's Largest Hockey Stick & Duck
World's Largest Tee Pee
World's Largest UFO landing pad
St. Paul's, Alberta
Built in 1967 with the blessings of the town. St. Paul has been waiting for the aliens ever since. Attracting 30,000 visitors that year the town added a UFO Interpretive Disply and UFO hotline.
Duncan, British Columbia
Originally built for Expo '86 in Vancouver, Duncan was given the honour of displaying this 28,000 kilogram (61,000 pounds) tribute to Canada's game.
World's Largest Tee Pee
Medicine Hat, Alberta
An airy interpretation of a traditional teepee, 215 feet tall and 160 feet wide at the base. This giant teepee was built for the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics, and moved to Medicine hat in 1991.
An airy interpretation of a traditional teepee, 215 feet tall and 160 feet wide at the base. This giant teepee was built for the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics, and moved to Medicine hat in 1991.
World's Largest UFO landing pad
St. Paul's, Alberta
Built in 1967 with the blessings of the town. St. Paul has been waiting for the aliens ever since. Attracting 30,000 visitors that year the town added a UFO Interpretive Disply and UFO hotline.
Big Lobster
Shediac, New Brunswick
Shediac calls itself the "Lobster Capital of the World," so a massive lobster statue would make sense in this quaint little town.
From our clients, London
Monday morning my friend called me from Rio, she was boarding a flight that night for London and needed two nights accommodation.
Almost everything was sold out in London, except for 600.00gbp plus per night, more than she was wanting to pay. I found the "Citadines Prestige South Kensington" hotel at a great rate.
Yesterday morning she Skyped me from her room, and walked around with her Ipad showing me the accommodation. It looked exactly like their photo's on their website.
Great location and you can walk everywhere and close to Harrod's!
Bvlgari Hotel, London
What inspiration for a visit to London!
Nick from the Bvlgari Hotel London was in with amazing photos and some great stories about the new Bvlgari hotel that is to open in May 2012.
Bvlgari is known worldwide for their exquisite jewelry and have opened 3 hotels around the world with their 4th to open in London.
Mr. Bvlgari was originally a silver smith and this can be seen throughout the hotel. With Silver, gold’s, and jewel tones throughout the hotel. Their concept is when you walk into your room you feel like you’re walking into a piece of jewelry. The Bvlgari will open May 28th with 85 rooms in what will be the “greenest hotel in London” complete with a Bee hive on the roof. The hotel is situated across from Hyde Park, which is the largest city park in the world, and their back door is mere metres from Harrods front door.
What do you think is the number 1 item purchased in a hotel restaurant?
A burger – I know I’ve purchased my fare share! A group of staff was sent to New York, where the best hamburgers are created for a tasting. And the result is they believe they have one of the best burgers in the world. You be the judge of that.
Hostels that are a bit different
Heading out on a trip? Keeping things on a budget ? Check out the locations of these Hostels.
Stayokay Domburg, Netherlands: This one is a castle.The 13th century castle is within walking distance of the beach. In summer you can congregate on the terrace with its amazing view of the dunes. The rooms are in the main building and in the two carriage houses.
Stockholm, Sweden: This on is on a Jumbo Jet!
Bay of Island, The Rock, New Zealand: This one is a boat ! The Rock is New Zealand’s biggest house boat, built to offer a warm, homely, stable environment for cruising the Bay of Islands. The Rock is suitable for travellers of all ages who enjoy great company, new experiences, and who don’t mind getting their feet wet. Our overnight cruise allows guests to encounter everything the Bay has to offer and reflects the adventurous Kiwi spirit.
Xi'an-Qixian, China: This one is housed in classic Chinese row houses.
Ottawa Ontario, Canada: This one is an old Jail.
Stayokay Domburg, Netherlands: This one is a castle.The 13th century castle is within walking distance of the beach. In summer you can congregate on the terrace with its amazing view of the dunes. The rooms are in the main building and in the two carriage houses.
Stockholm, Sweden: This on is on a Jumbo Jet!
Bay of Island, The Rock, New Zealand: This one is a boat ! The Rock is New Zealand’s biggest house boat, built to offer a warm, homely, stable environment for cruising the Bay of Islands. The Rock is suitable for travellers of all ages who enjoy great company, new experiences, and who don’t mind getting their feet wet. Our overnight cruise allows guests to encounter everything the Bay has to offer and reflects the adventurous Kiwi spirit. World's Largest around the world
Have you ever wonder where the world's largest Banana lives ? Or a blue ox ?
Well here is a listing of some great GIANT hot spots to visit while out travelling !
Big Banana
New South Wales, Australia
The Big Rocking Horse
Gumeracha, Adelaide Hills, South Australia
You can climb to the top of The Big Rocking Horse, which stands at 18 metres high. Then visit the seven-acre animal park where, among other things, wallabies can be hand-fed. Relax and enjoy a meal or coffee in the licensed, child-friendly cafe, outdoor patio or shaded picnic area.
Wander through the Toy Factory to see Australia's largest range of quality wooden toys. A huge range of imported, educational wooden toys are available, as well as an impressive supply of souvenirs.
Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox
Bemidji, Minnesota, USA
Taking a trip along the Trans Canada Highway? http://tipsbythetravelgroup.blogspot.ca/2012/03/worlds-largest.html
Well here is a listing of some great GIANT hot spots to visit while out travelling !
New South Wales, Australia
Australians love their Big Things, and the Big Banana is one of the most beloved. It was first built to attract passing drivers to a road side banana stall. Now it boasts a cafe, shop and even an ice rink!
The Big Rocking Horse
Gumeracha, Adelaide Hills, South Australia
Wander through the Toy Factory to see Australia's largest range of quality wooden toys. A huge range of imported, educational wooden toys are available, as well as an impressive supply of souvenirs.
Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox
Bemidji, Minnesota, USA
Named "the second most photographed statues in the US" by Kodak, the statues of the mythical king lumberjacks, Paul, and his faithful ox, Babe are on the US National Register of Historic Places. However, this duo also protects the "Trees of Mystery" (Redwood forest) in Klamath California. And in Blind River Ontario Canada
Taking a trip along the Trans Canada Highway? http://tipsbythetravelgroup.blogspot.ca/2012/03/worlds-largest.html
Beware of the local laws when you travel
Here are some of those cultural differences that can land ignorant travelers in the local jail. Although some can be humorous, it’s a good idea to be informed about local laws wherever your adventures take you.
Eboli, Italy Honeymooners might be best to avoid hiring a car in Eboli, just south of Naples. Kissing in a moving vehicle here can carry a fine of up to 500 euros.
Eraclea, Italy Many holidaymakers head to the sandy beach at Eraclea to escape the hordes of tourists in nearby Venice. Unfortunately, those who enjoy building sandcastles can think again – it’s forbidden.
Capri, Italy Locals in Capri, Italy, must value their peace and quiet – a couple were arrested recently for wearing excessively noisy flip-flops, following the introduction of a ban on “noisy footwear.”
Singapore In a bid to keep the streets of this super-efficient city clean, the authorities in Singapore decided in 1992 to ban chewing gum completely. Stick to a mint
South-East Asia The durian, a fruit native to Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia, has a smell so incredibly strong that it is banned from many public places in South-East Asia.
Best places to hike
Lace up your hiking boots and lets head out. Everyone had different thoughts on what makes a good hike. Something in the forest, or something with a view. Learning history or experiencing it along the way. Here are some of the top rated hikes in the world. Would you agree?
In our own back yard, British Columbia Canada, is the West Coast Trail.
It is a rugged, challenging but extremely rewarding trail. The 75km path take you through old growth forest to beaches and headlands.
Zion Narrows, Utah USA
Hike through the waters of this canyon, which twists and turns to reveal carved alcoves, hanging gardens and "Wall Street" a 3.2km stretch where the canyon narrows to 7.2m wide and 455m high.
Inca Trail, Peru
This is a trek for those who love history and culture. Learn about the ancient Inca empire as you follow in their footsteps to magical Machu Picchu.
Hadrian's Wall, United Kingdom
This wall was built as a defense fortification in AD 122, and ran across the width of Northern Britain. A significant part of the wall still remains along this 120km hike from coast to coast.
Routeburn Track, New Zealand
Just one of the many amazing hikes in New Zealand, this hike takes 3 days. Hiking through the superb scenery of the Southern Alps in the South Island.
Phoenix, Arizona USA
National Geographic rates Phoenix among America's best hiking cities with 320 kilometres of accessible hiking trails.
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In our own back yard, British Columbia Canada, is the West Coast Trail.
It is a rugged, challenging but extremely rewarding trail. The 75km path take you through old growth forest to beaches and headlands.
Zion Narrows, Utah USA
Hike through the waters of this canyon, which twists and turns to reveal carved alcoves, hanging gardens and "Wall Street" a 3.2km stretch where the canyon narrows to 7.2m wide and 455m high.
Inca Trail, Peru
This is a trek for those who love history and culture. Learn about the ancient Inca empire as you follow in their footsteps to magical Machu Picchu.
Hadrian's Wall, United KingdomThis wall was built as a defense fortification in AD 122, and ran across the width of Northern Britain. A significant part of the wall still remains along this 120km hike from coast to coast.
Routeburn Track, New Zealand
Just one of the many amazing hikes in New Zealand, this hike takes 3 days. Hiking through the superb scenery of the Southern Alps in the South Island.
Phoenix, Arizona USA
National Geographic rates Phoenix among America's best hiking cities with 320 kilometres of accessible hiking trails.
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Hotels for Solos
While hotels generally don't charge a single supplements the way tour operators and cruise ships do, some hotels are taking steps to cater to solo travelers.
Dukes London has a whole floor just for women. (Duchess Rooms) are readily available for the ladies traveling alone. Rooms include things like smaller slippers, lifestyle magazines and a makeup mirror at the vanity. Women can enjoy a corner table to themselves in the dining room so that they can eat in peace and not feel like they are on display in the middle of the room. And all services on the floor, from escort upon arrival to deliveries to housekeeping, are handled exclusively by female members of staff.
Foods that are a little different
Would you try any of these foods ? Have you ?
I couldn't bring myself to post pictures of these picture, do a quick google if you need a visual.
Bird's Nest Soup - China
This is not just a clever name. This soup is actually made from a birds nest, which in turn are made of bird's hardened saliva. The texture is apparently reminiscent of mucus.
Hakarl - Iceland
Hakarl has a strong ammonia smell, which makes me wonder who ever thought to eat it. This fermented shark is readily available in Icelandic stores all year round and is eaten in all seasons.
Casu Marzu - Italy
Often called ‘Italian maggot cheese’ because the special ingredient is live maggots. Casu Marzu is a rotten sheep cheese that has been made in Sardinia, Italy for generations in exactly the same way. The maggots are removed before eating, however sometimes they are missed.
Sheep's Head
This is a dish enjoyed in many countries, particularly Scandinavian and Mediterranean ones such as Morocco. The diner is served an entire sheep's head, eyeballs, tongue and all.
Balut - Philippines
This hard boiled fertilized duck embryo is a common street food in the Philippines, most people tent to season their duck fetus with a salt, chili and vinegar dressing.
I couldn't bring myself to post pictures of these picture, do a quick google if you need a visual.
Bird's Nest Soup - China
This is not just a clever name. This soup is actually made from a birds nest, which in turn are made of bird's hardened saliva. The texture is apparently reminiscent of mucus. Hakarl - Iceland
Hakarl has a strong ammonia smell, which makes me wonder who ever thought to eat it. This fermented shark is readily available in Icelandic stores all year round and is eaten in all seasons.
Casu Marzu - Italy
Often called ‘Italian maggot cheese’ because the special ingredient is live maggots. Casu Marzu is a rotten sheep cheese that has been made in Sardinia, Italy for generations in exactly the same way. The maggots are removed before eating, however sometimes they are missed.
Sheep's Head
This is a dish enjoyed in many countries, particularly Scandinavian and Mediterranean ones such as Morocco. The diner is served an entire sheep's head, eyeballs, tongue and all.
Balut - Philippines
This hard boiled fertilized duck embryo is a common street food in the Philippines, most people tent to season their duck fetus with a salt, chili and vinegar dressing.
5 things not to do on airplanes
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Every time you get on an airplane, it's a crap shoot. No, I'm not talking about safety but rather the person you'll be sitting next to. All walks of life end up flying at one point or another. Maybe you're stuck sitting next to someone who doesn't quite understand that his actions impact others around him. Or maybe YOU are that person.
Put out by CNN, here are a list of the top 5 things not to do on an airplane.
NUMBER ONE
No bare feet -- It should go without saying that being cooped up on an airplane with others mere inches from you is painful enough with everyone clothed. Just because it's a long flight does not mean you can get as comfortable as you get at home. Sure, go ahead and kick your shoes off, but you better be wearing socks. And if your feet smell, put those shoes right back on to make sure that you contain the stink. This one applies in all classes.
Every time you get on an airplane, it's a crap shoot. No, I'm not talking about safety but rather the person you'll be sitting next to. All walks of life end up flying at one point or another. Maybe you're stuck sitting next to someone who doesn't quite understand that his actions impact others around him. Or maybe YOU are that person.
Put out by CNN, here are a list of the top 5 things not to do on an airplane.
NUMBER ONE
No bare feet -- It should go without saying that being cooped up on an airplane with others mere inches from you is painful enough with everyone clothed. Just because it's a long flight does not mean you can get as comfortable as you get at home. Sure, go ahead and kick your shoes off, but you better be wearing socks. And if your feet smell, put those shoes right back on to make sure that you contain the stink. This one applies in all classes.
NUMBER TWO
Don't abuse the recline -- Coach passengers have few things that they can control in the flying experience, but one is the angle of their seats. For most, there is a realization that if you recline your seat, it will impact the person behind you. There are those few out there, however, who simply don't care and jack that seat back as far as it will go. You have the right to recline, but try to be considerate. Don't be that guy who sees a cart rolling down the aisle with dinner on that long flight and decides to lean back. It's hard enough to eat on an airplane, but it's impossible with the seat bending back into your face.
Don't abuse the recline -- Coach passengers have few things that they can control in the flying experience, but one is the angle of their seats. For most, there is a realization that if you recline your seat, it will impact the person behind you. There are those few out there, however, who simply don't care and jack that seat back as far as it will go. You have the right to recline, but try to be considerate. Don't be that guy who sees a cart rolling down the aisle with dinner on that long flight and decides to lean back. It's hard enough to eat on an airplane, but it's impossible with the seat bending back into your face.
NUMBER THREE
Don't be an overhead hog -- Everyone knows that there is likely going to be more demand for overhead bin space than actual space up there, so why not do your part to help get as much up there as you can? Put your roller bag wheels-in instead of sideways, if it fits. Don't take up a ton of space by placing a coat along the entire bin. More important, if someone asks if she can move your bag around to try to fit her own, let them. Think of it like a big Tetris puzzle, and you don't want to leave an empty space.
NUMBER FOUR
No talking loudly to strangers -- There are some people who love to talk to their seatmates on airplanes; there are others who dread the thought. There's nothing wrong with talking to your seatmate if there's a mutual interest, but keep the volume down to avoid bugging those around you who really don't care where you're from and what you do for a living. And just because you're talking to someone doesn't mean that he wants to talk to you. Be very careful to observe the warning signs -- fidgeting, quietness, looking away from you, opening a magazine, etc. Some people aren't rude, but they don't want to talk to you. Take a hint.
NUMBER FIVE
Don't make dumb jokes -- It's amazing how many people out there still think it's funny to say, "I've got a bomb," or something equally stupid. Oh sure, it's hi-larious to you, but it's only going to get you thrown off the plane and into heavy questioning. You might have no better way to spend your time, but when you delay that flight, you'll have a hundred or more new enemies who wish you'd never boarded.
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