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Holidays in Cyprus are as popular as ever. Situated 47 miles south of Turkey, Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean, following Sicily and Sardinia. The island covers a total area of 3,500 sq. Miles, and has a coastline that spans 402 miles. With a rich history of 10,000 years, Cyprus caters for every type of tourist.

The island’s main sea port is Limassol, which is also a thriving trade and business center in the Mediterranean area. Because of this, the city has a number of top quality hotels that offer business visitors the very best in service and accommodation. The vast sandy beaches also make it an ideal summer resort.

The city is also home to a notable Cyprus winery. The rolling hills on the surrounding countryside covered in vineyards. On the entertainment front, Limossol is home to a lively carnival that takes place annually in early spring. This event, which is as colorful and vibrant as the Mardi Gras, is a big tourist draw card.

Every Cyprus town has its own unique attractions and character, but the individuality of Paphos is clearly evident. Strewn around the entire town are ancient sites that go back thousands of years. The historical content is so great that the town is featured in the UNESCO list of natural treasures.

The majestic mountain range, the Troodos, features the Troodos Massif, another popular sight-seeing venue. The Massif section extends right through the center of the country. The peak is Mount Olympus at a height of 1,952 meters. It is the highest point of Cyprus and offers spectacular views of the countryside and green forests.

If you spend your next summer holidays in Cyprus, you will certainly not forget the pristine beaches in the Ammachostos region. Pictures of the turquoise crystal clear waters often grace the pages of the world’s leading holiday and travel magazines. Spend a few days in one of this area’s resorts, Protaras or Ayia, and you will certainly experience paradise on earth.

Thomson Holidays 2010 offer great value holidays around the island of Cyprus as well as and many other holiday destinations. Find the best deals with advice and tips from Craig Walker travel expert of Travel Bites

Technorati Tags: cyprus, destinations, europe, holidays, travel, travel tips, vacation destinations, vacation tips, vacations

One memory which you will always cherish for the rest of your life is the Austrain Lakes and Mountains Holidays. Austria has got the best of landscapes, lakes and mountains which will surely capture your mind. First let us talk about the beautiful lakes of Austria.

Austria is really famous for its beautiful lakes. The most unique fact is that you will find more than 300 lakes in Austria. But still all of them cannot be considered as the best. Among the 300 lakes the best of them are Lake Bodensee and Lake Constance. In these lakes you can do a lot of activities. You can enjoy various water sports, enjoy the beautiful parks and moreover you can experience the serene beauty of these lakes.

You can experience the real beauty of Austria if you stay close to these lakes. And you do this as there are many luxurious hotels, and even medium range hotels, situated near them. Also if you go to Mondseeland, which is in upper Austria, there also you will find plenty of hotels. These are situated near the beautiful lakes like Mondsee, Traunsee, Attersee, Wolfgangsee, Grunslsee, Hallstatter and many more.

Another factor that will make your Austrain lakes and mountains holiday much more memorable is the beautiful mountains. Austria is really popular and famous for the high and beautiful mountain peaks. Some of these beautiful mountain ranges include Mount Grossglockner, Mount Wildspitze, Mount Hochkonig, Mount Zugspitze and many more. All of these mountains are very well known for the natural scenic beauty.

The best part of these mountains is that you can explore their beauty by doing activities like rock climbing, trekking, mountain biking, paragliding, kayaking, hiking and rafting.

So make your Austrain lakes and mountains holidays much more exciting by experiencing all the various waterfront activities and mountain trekking. Check out some of the best hotels situated near to the mountains and lakes to make your vacation much more memorable.

Discover the best options the perfect lakes and mountains holidays with travel writer Davis Cameron of A Travel. Discover the best dates to travel and where to find the best travel deals for travel to Austria for your ideal lakes and mountains holiday.

Technorati Tags: Austria, destinations, europe, holidays, touring, travel, trips, vacation destinations, vacations

It is never going to be easy to single out five special golf courses in any one country. Compiling such a list for Portugal is made even more difficult due to the huge range and styles of courses on offer.

This list reflects five great courses that are enjoyable to play as much for their beautiful scenery as for their range of game play and quality of fairways and greens. Each one could provide a memorable highlight to any golf holiday in Portugal.

On a hot summer’s day the 6000 yard Estoril course is an enjoyable treat. The course requires skill around the 18 holes to navigate the well placed bunkers and difficult rough.

The Penha Longa course is finally playing host to the Portugal Open (in 2010) so has been receiving some recent modifications to tighten up the course design. Amateurs will enjoy the scenery around the course as some holes play through ancient ruins.

The south course in Quinta do Lago is the more mature of the two courses available to play at this resort. Some holes prove challenging due to the stark Atlantic Ocean breeze, while other holes are sheltered by lush vegetation and forestry. Given the courses maturity, the greens play exceptionally true and fast as one would expect.

The Oitavos Golf Club is a well architected course that makes the most of the surrounding countryside. It has played host to the Open and as a result the front nine and back nine holes require long tee shots and accurate second shots in order to avoid the bunkers that are dotted around most greens.

No trip to the Algarve would be complete without playing the Vale da Pinta. This is an interestingly designed course that is embedded within a natural valley. The fairways undulations make for some odd bounces which some would deem unfair but this does aid golfers playing short off the tee.

Given the range of courses in Portugal, and the proliferation of clubs in the Algarve, a top 5 list of courses will always be quite subjective. Hopefully this list gives you food for thought about your next golf break.

Looking for European golfing breaks? For the perfect golf holiday Algarve, Estoril and the other Portuguese regions have it all. Visit the Golf Holidays In Portugal Guide to learn more.

Technorati Tags: europe, golf, golf holidays, golf travel, holidays, leisure, portugal, recreation, sports, travel, travel destinations, travel tips, vacation destinations, vacations

Thousands of people enjoy holidays in Portugal each year, and with such a rich variety of culture, entertainment and interest, it is not surprising. No matter whether you are a culture vulture, or simply want to soak up the sun, there is sure to be something for you.

Portugal can trace its history back through the ages, and was once a major nation across the world. These traditions are traced back no more so that in the proud capital of Lisbon. A modern and vibrant city, there is always something going on.

Being on the coast too, it makes not just for a cultural visit, but a shopping mecca amongst a vibrant and lively atmosphere. Whether visiting the flea markets, dining in the world class restaurants, or dancing the night away, it is always a great place to be.

Popular holidays in Portugal often include golf. This is unsurprising too, as it boasts many of the leading courses the Iberian Peninsula offers. Though these are littered throughout, it is in the Algarve that they are particularly grouped.

The Algarve is of course synonymous with holidays in Portugal, and it is no wonder with a wonderful climate, a host of water sports and amazing facilities in all the resorts.

There are those of course that do not want to be tied to a resort holiday, and here again Portugal excels. Horse riding expeditions are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in the hills. For something a little less taxing, walking holidays allow the wonderful country to be enjoyed too.

Though the mainland is exceptional, a trip to Madeira just off the southwestern coast makes a trip with a difference. The island boasts not just a wonderful year round climate, but with its picturesque villages set amongst the greenery it has fans aplenty.

There are many more holidays in Portugal to enjoy too; from wine trails to fishing trips, clubbing extravaganzas to cooking schools. It is a destination that many will never tire of visiting and really, that is not surprising.

Thomson Holidays 2011 offer great value holidays arount the Algarve, Portugal as well as and many other vacation destinations. Discover the best deals with advice and tips from Craig Walker travel expert of Travel Bites

Technorati Tags: destinations, europe, holidays, portugal, travel, travel advice, travel tips, vacation destinations, vacations

It is probably true to say that Irish cuisine is perceived globally as being bland. Thankfully, the wave of immigrants that helped buoy up the Celtic Tiger economy have also brought with them an appreciation of European, Asian and World cuisine that has prompted a restaurant boom.

Even the smaller towns and villages around Ireland are benefiting from this rise in restaurant numbers as each village sees the value this provides to local tourism.

One town of particular note, in gastronomic terms, is Doolin in the west of Ireland. For many years, visitors were only in Doolin for the traditional music sessions or to get the ferry over to the Aran Islands. But nowadays, Doolin hotels, pubs and restaurant are raising the standard of dining for the entire region.

In the village sits Cullinan’s restaurant. Their menu focuses on using the seafood & shellfish caught and delivered daily from the local harbor. The overall feel of the menu is one of classic Mediterranean spices and flavor combinations that complement the fish and legumes used.

A fine dining experience is available at Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel and Restaurant. Indeed there is a wonderful blend of the plush dining room dcor, the exquisite food, the panoramic views of Galway Bay and all set with the backdrop the 15th century castle which forms the backdrop to the hotel and restaurant.

Family groups in search of a no-fuss option will find the Aran View House Hotel restaurant a pleasing option. Diners can choose from the formal a la carte menu in the main dining room, the standard menu or the bar menu in the hotel bar. The style of good suits the country house dcor and is more traditionally Irish with stews, roasts and seafood options throughout.

Any visitor to Doolin should not however miss out on hearing some of the best traditional music sessions that this town is famous for. The best places to experience this is in the two main bars on the main street, McGann’s and O’Connor’s pubs. Both also provide regular hearty pub fare with the local seafood chowder being a firm favorite along with the obligator Irish stew.

Given that Doolin is a small Irish village in a relatively remote region, it is great to see the town has raised its game and now provides enough dining-out options to cater for families, couples and singletons seeking good quality locally sourced food. While it may never take Kinsale’s crown as the culinary capital, it will certainly be considered in the top 3.

Discover Doolin Ireland for yourself. For more information visit the Doolin Hotels Guide website.

Technorati Tags: aran islands, city guide, destination, doolin, europe, food, holidays, ireland, leisure, music, recreation, restaurants, travel, vacation destinations, vacations

It is clear to see why there are over a million visitors taking holidays in Malta each year. The climate is wonderful all through the year, whilst the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean are always welcoming. With the islands of Gozo and Comino just a short hop away too, there is much to discover.

As soon as tourists step off the plane, they are left in no doubt as to why they have come; the sheer variety of colors that hit you is breathtaking. The blues of the sea and sky of course, but these are put into place by the honey colored buildings throughout, and the lush greenery. Initially, it seems somewhat of a backwater, but a few hours here will soon show just how modern Malta has become.

For those looking at a city break, Valetta makes an ideal choice. The islands’ capital, it is steeped in history and tradition befitting such an important port of old. It is widely accepted as being one of the finest cities in all of Europe; testimony to which are the stunning fountains, gardens and period architecture.

If it is culture that you are after, Malta and Gozo deliver exceptionally well. With over 350 churches across the islands, museums aplenty and historic tours, there is sure to be something of interest. No more is this typified than within the walls of St John’s Cathedral back in Valetta.

Malta is also a great destination for divers, with wonderful dives off the coast and into the caves that eat into the shore. For truly great adventures however, a trip to the mile long island of Comino with its stunning blue lagoon has to be considered.

The quality of resorts across the islands is high, with most being four or five star. Though it is holidays in Malta that are the most popular, increasingly people are heading to Gozo. With connections via helicopter from the international airport too, a great start to a great time is assured.

Thomson Holidays 2011 offer great value holidays in Malta and many other destinations. Locate the best offers with advice and tips from Craig Walker travel expert of Travel Bites

Technorati Tags: destinations, europe, holidays, malta, travel, travel advice, vacation destinations, vacations

Prague has become one of the most popular places to visit in Europe. The combination of great sights and low prices makes it a very great place for a vacation. You can find cheap hotels, cheap gourmet food and large beers.

The first historical building in Prague was the castle Prazsky Hrad. It was built in the 9th century. The castle sits on a hill high above the Vltava River.

A monastery, three churches and a palace is located behind the castle walls. In 1320 the city Hradcany was founded in one part of the castle’s outer courtyard.

The president seat has been located in the castle since 1918. There is changing of the Guard every hour in front of the castle. At noon it even includes fanfare.

The old part of Prague is called Stare Mesto. Centrally located in the area is Staromestske namesti (in English Old Town Square). A lot of historical buildings surround the square; a sight that can be compared with almost any other European city.

The first settlements started in the 10th century around the castle. From here it spread to the other side of the Vltava River. The main building point was around the square in the old town.

The Old Town Hall was built in 1338 and in 1490 the unusual astronomical clock was added. Today large groups crowd to watch the show with odd performers like a rooster, a turkey, apostles, the Death, the Greed and the Vanity.

The famous Charles Bridge is 520 meters long and built of sandstone blocks, which is said to be reinforced with a mixture of mortar and eggs. The bridge was built in 1357 and until 1741 was Charles Bridge is the only way to cross the Vltava.

Until 1683 the bridge was only decorated with a simple cross. Then the first statues were set up, and since a lot of other statues have followed; statues that gives the bridge its characteristic look.

The bridge is a popular place for tourists; and for artists and merchants who offer the wares to the tourists.

Even though Prague is more expensive than it used to be, it is still a great place for shopping. And it is not just wares from former East European countries that are for sale.

Since the Velvet Revolution in 1989 a lot has happened in Prague; both in terms of foreign and Czech products. Today all major American and Western European brands are represented in Prague. And you can easily spend a full day shopping in department stores and specialty shops in downtown Prague.

Morten Elm is writing about city breaks in Prague on Miniferie Prag. Read more about the sights in Sevaerdigheder in Prag.

Technorati Tags: brands, Charles Bridge, cheap, europe, history, holiday, old town, Prague, shopping, travel, vacation, vacation destinations

Greece is a country that has so much historical and cultural history. It is also the country that boasts extraordinary natural climates and landscapes that any visitor is going to marvel at. Not only this, but it also contains several islands that surround the coast that are equally beautiful and have their own charms. Due to all of this, heading to Greece on holiday is a fantastic option, and there are lots of ways of finding a cheap holiday in Greece and that is what you want.

When it comes to finding anything cheap these days, the Internet needs to be top priority and needs to be completely made use of in the best possible way. When you are looking for anything at a bargain price the Internet is always able to cough something up. Therefore you need to become your own travel agent and ignore the commissions that will be paid to an actual employed sales agent.

All you need to do is type in to your search engine cheap holidays increase and you are going to be able to see a huge list of different companies who will be able to offer you great packages. As long as you’re willing to put in the time, then you should find something to suit you.

When it comes to where you’re going to stay this will be very important in the price. A lot of the more popular places are going to be more expensive than if you were to head to somewhere quieter and out of the way.

Yet have reason to actually visit Greece is to take advantage of the wonderful things on offer. As such you are going to want to visit the wonderful cities of Athens, or the beautiful beaches that are dotted around the coast and on the different islands owned by the country.

You need to work out exactly where you want to go and then look heavily in advance in order to get your accommodation and your flights more cheaply.

Thomson Holidays 2010 offer great value vacations to Greece even on busy travel dates, find out how you can save with tips and advice from travel writer Wendy Miller of travel web site Travel Snips

Technorati Tags: destinations, europe, greece, holidays, travel, travel advice, travel tips, vacation destinations, vacations

Vicenza is a small town situated in the north east of Italy. Vicenza is the capital of the Veneto region which also includes the renowned Italian town of Venice. Vicenza is situated about 200km east of Milan. The town of Vicenza has a population of just over 110,000 and has traditionally been a major centre of the Italian textile industry.

In later years Vicenza has become a manufacturer of computer parts. Even though Vicenza is not a major city on the average tourist’s travel plan, it’s closeness to Venice and the presence of a few constructions and sights of attraction make it worthy of at least a short stop over. Below we’ve described a few of the sightseeing highlights of Vicenza.

The Basilica Palladiana that belongs to the 16th century and was designed by the famous sculptor Andrea Palladio whose works inspired the renaissance artists of Italy a great deal is one of the most significant architectural wonders of Vicenza.

The Basilica Paddiana is centrally located in the Piazza dei Signori which makes it easily accessible and a best place from which to embark on a sightseeing tour of Vicenza.

Tourists who relish in viewing the pieces of art should make a visit to the Civico Museum in Vicenza where several finest pieces of art that manifest the beauty of the Italian art are displayed. This museum is kept open between 9am and 5pm.

The Monte Berico Basilica is another architectural wonder that is located atop a hill in the fringes of the town of Vicenza. A panoramic view of the entire town can be had from this Basilica and hence the atmosphere here is serene in nature.

The current building on this spot in Vicenza dates back to the 18th century, although the significance of the actual place dates back much further.

This is supposedly the place where the Virgin Mary made two supernatural appearances. This basilica in Vicenza opens at 6.15am and closes at 7.30pm, although it closes for two hours in the afternoon from 12.30.

The Archaeological Museum in Vicenza may not be an important tourist spot but it boasts a good collection of artefacts that belong to the local areas and that were excavated recently.

The list of things to do in Vicenza cant be fully listed in a few hundred words. If you would like to read more about interesting things to do in Florence click on the link.

Technorati Tags: culture, europe, family, history, home, Italy, poeple, society, tourism, travel, vacation, vacation destinations

The lakes and mountains holidays in Italy are very beautiful and most can be found near the Alps in Northern Italy. One of the largest lakes in Italy is Lake Garda located between Milan and Venice. This lake was originally formed by the glaciers. Lake Garda has many resorts and hotels along its shores as it is a very popular tourist destination.

Not to be missed at Lake Garda is the ancient fortified town of Sirmione. This town contains a great mix of the old and new as not only is there a fortified town but there are also several spa complexes and many restaurants, hotels, bars and fashion boutiques. Other historical spots include Scaliger castle, built in the-th century and the villa of the famous Roman poet Catallus. For those looking for relaxation and rest you can visit the sulfur spring on the end of the peninsula and for some fun Gardaland is very close by.

Another lake known for its beauty is Lake Como. This lake is close to Lake Garda and is only about an hour from Milan. There are many beautiful gardens and villas to visit as Lake Como is known for its lakeside villas. Some villas that should not be missed include Villa Carlotta, Villa Serbelloni, Villa Melzi, Villa del Balbianello and Villa d’Este. If possible you should make arrangements to view the interior of the villas as well as the gardens.

One important draw to the Italy’s lake region is the constant but mild weather. Even I the heat of the summer the lakes are still a comfortable 80 degrees. There is much to do o n the lakes as you can participate in many water sports and sailing. There are also many towns around the lake that can be explored. You can reach these towns by driving or taking the ferry.

Right by the lakes is the Italian Alps. In the distance they can be hard to miss and are even more impressive up close. During the spring and summer you will be stunned by the fields and fields of flowers found in the Alps and the winter offers many opportunities for some world class skiing. A famous tourist spot in the mountains is Trentino.

The north of Italy is a very popular destination for a lakes and mountains holiday especially for Thomson Lakes and Crystal Lakes. The beautiful scenery and hill walks make this area popular with hillwalkers of all ages during the summer months. There are flights from most major UK airports offering the holidaymaker greater convenience.

Technorati Tags: europe, holidays, Italy, travel, vacation, vacation destinations