Monday, September 7, 2009

2 Must Visit Tourist Places In Jordan

2 Must Visit Tourist Places In Jordan
By Abas Kamal Bin Sulaiman


The question is whether you would like or not a visit to Jordan since it lies in an unstable area surrounding Israel. Jordan also known as the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is located on the north of the Arabian Peninsula. The nation shares its borders with Syria in the east, with Iraq & Saudi Arabia, in the west with Israel, & of course; south with Saudi Arabia. A small part of the southern boundary washes by the waters of the Red Sea.

Madaba "City of Mosaics", Jordan

Image by: Jane Gribbon

Jordan - part of the Christian Holy Land; therefore are located numerous places, as connected with the events described in the books of the Old and New Covenant Christian Bible. Among the enormous enumeration of the places, which are of interest for the pilgrims, should be noted the mosaic map of Madaba (discovered in 1896) in which is located in the floor of the Greek Orthodox Basilica of Saint George.

The archaeological park which unites into itself a number of the remainders of Byzantine villas & churches is rich in the decorated mosaic panels. The abundance of mosaics in Madaba has given the name "City of Mosaics" to the Jordanian city. After the inspection of numerous monuments you will be able to rest in the dead or Red Sea. An 8 day tour package priced at about $1,100 per person is available online at OnTheGoTours (onthegotours.com/Totally-Jordan) website which includes a 7th day visit to Madaba.

Petra - An Ancient City Touted in the Dead Sea Scrolls

Image by :flickr

Petra, an ancient Rose Red city near a discovered site known to be 9000 years old suggests its prehistoric inhabitance by humans. Petra was lost to the western world until it was rediscovered in 1812 by a Swiss explorer named Johann Ludwig Burckhardt. The city is now a World Heritage Site since 1985 & one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. There are many fascinating buildings in Petra, cut from stone of the rock cliffs like the Monastery, The Urn Tomb, & the treasury. It's certainly a unique experience to be visiting the ancient city that had possibly been mentioned in the Dead Sea Scrolls as the city of Rekem. Anyway, Petra is a fantastic achievement of ancient human civilization in the area.

A trekking tour to Petra package can be found online from OnTheGoTours.com for about $1747 per person. It's a 9 day tour arriving in Amman on the first day & visiting the lost city of Petra on the 5th day. An alternative tour package could be taken from within Israel. Now that the two countries, Israel & Jordan are at peace since 1994, frequent tours are possible. The one day tour (Israeltr.Powweb.com/jordan.htm) is priced at about $145 per person & begins from the Israel southernmost city of Eilat. Also note that visa to Jordan must be acquired before arriving to Israel. Which of the two ways you choose to visit Petra, be known that you will be stepping into an awe inspiring environment, perhaps even alien & mysterious city. So the answer to the initial question about visiting Jordan is that you would like it.

I write on travel destinations & a travel journal. Do visit voyage.aimvotal.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Abas_Kamal_Bin_Sulaiman
http://EzineArticles.com/?2-Must-Visit-Tourist-Places-In-Jordan&id=1188972

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

The First Hotel For Women Was Opened in Saudi Arabia

The First Hotel For Women Was Opened in Saudi ArabiThe First Hotel For Women Was Opened in Saudi Arabia

By Iuri Tarabanov







The first hotel in the country, which is intended exclusively for women, was inaugurated in the capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh. The regulations which are currently in force in the Kingdom provide that a woman (a local resident or a tourist) who is not accompanied by a guardian, who can be her husband, father or somebody else of her agnates, doesn't have the right to stay in a hotel or to book a room by herself. These regulations don't apply to the new hotel for women.





The "Luthan", as this hotel is called, includes 25 rooms and several halls for conferences and receptions. It was built by the initiative of some Saudi business women and was destined to make easier their life and travel round the country.





Prince Sultan ben Salman, who is the head of the Supreme Committee of Tourism in Saudi Arabia, participated in the ceremony of the inauguration of the hotel and told he hoped that soon such hotels would be built in the other cities of the country and it, undoubtedly, would contribute to the development of the business activity of Saudi women.





Saudi Arabia is one of the most severe Muslim countries. Unlike the other Islamic countries, the women in this country are not allowed to drive a car. They are also prohibited to participate in elections. However, over the last few years, the Saudi women have been more actively participating in the social life of the Kingdom.





The St. Valentine's Day has also been prohibited by the Vice Squad of Saudi Arabia as a non-moslem hoiliday that cannot be celebrated and is a sin and contributes to the non-marital relationships between men and women.







Iuri Tarabanov writes about interesting travel experiences. His travel directions site is http://www.tripspirit.com.





Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Iuri_Tarabanov

http://EzineArticles.com/?The-First-Hotel-For-Women-Was-Opened-in-Saudi-Arabia&id=1206963











Monday, April 13, 2009

Travel Agency Tips for First Time Travelers

Travel Agency Tips for First Time Travelers


Travel agents are an incredible source of information. They know all about deals, have insider knowledge about the industry, develop relationships with hotels, tour operators, airlines, bed and breakfasts and travel associations, and have the necessary technology to find the best deals for traveling to your selected destination.
If you are a first time traveler, deal with a travel agency as though you are a pro. Here are a few tips for you:

• Low-cost carriers – ask your travel agent if they also book with low cost or discount carriers. Because of their inexpensive business models, companies like Ryan air, Jet Blue and Easy Jet offer much cheaper fares.

• Package deals – travel agents not only book flights, they can create a customized travel package for you to include air, hotel, sightseeing and shows. Package deals can be cheaper because of added services.

• Matching service – this is not the romantic matching service that we all know about. When travel agents book tours for their customers, they sometimes receive requests from travelers who like to share a double room, which is cheaper, instead of paying for a single room. This can happen when a particular tour package consists of couples and singles and singles cannot afford a single room.

• No-fuss traveler– inform your travel agent right away if your dates for your return trip are fixed; that is, there is little or no chance of changing your dates. Your travel agent can get you a cheaper fare if you travel on a restricted ticket. The more restrictions are built into your ticket, the cheaper it becomes. For instance, in addition to fixed, unchangeable dates, you can tell your travel agent that you do not mind taking an indirect route (direct routes are more expensive), that you are staying a specified number of days, that it does not matter what day of the week you travel, and you do not mind taking red eye flights.

• The more the merrier – and cheaper! Your travel agent can offer you additional discounts if you request for group travel. Because travel agents receive their discounts in bulk from suppliers, they can pass these on to you as savings. Travel agents purchase seats in blocks, so the sooner they fill up these seats, the better it is for them.

Advice is free – many travel agents are seasoned travelers. They get what the industry calls “fam trips” which means “familiarization trips.” Hotels and tour operators invite travel agents, all expenses paid, so that they can promote them to travelers. Frequent travel broadens not only the mind of travel agents, but also expands their network of contacts. The more contacts a travel agent has, the higher the chances of getting more hot deals. Remember, your travel agent has full access to the industry’s technology. He or she knows what buttons to push to get a good deal. Ask your travel agent to come up with a tour package that will meet your budget. For instance, she could recommend that instead of flying from London to Paris, you could avail of cheaper rail travel between these two cities.

Specialization – find a travel agent that focuses on your particular needs or specializes in the destination you choose. For instance, travel agents specialize in Caribbean travel or in European rail vacations. Some travel agents specialize in senior travel, others specialize in student travel.

ATP – this is the Airline Tariff Publishing tool that most travel agents use. It publishes the latest air fares on more than 500 airlines several times a day. If you call your travel agent on a weekday at 2:00 pm, 5:00 pm and midnight, and ask for a cheap fare, she just might have the latest published fares on discount.

Free vouchers – ask your travel agent if he or she can give you some free vouchers you can use. Believe it or not, they have giveaways that inexperienced travelers are not aware of. But you have to ask!

• Early Bird specials – if you know where and when you are going, call your travel agent anyway even if you are not planning on traveling before six months. Sometimes, they receive discounted fares from certain airlines and it is good to be able to time this fact with your trip. When travelling to overseas destinations, booking months ahead can land you a great deal.
Upgrades – if you have developed a good relationship with a travel agent (regularly booking your boss’ flights with him or her and referring them to your friends), ask if it would be possible to upgrade your seat, hotel or show ticket. Travel agents receive an incredible number of promotions from airlines and hotel operators, and he just might upgrade you at no extra cost, in exchange for business from the company you work with.


Jeremy Foster is a freelance writer who writes about vacationing and the travel industry, often discussing tips and travel deals one would find through working with a travel agency.

Article Source: http://www.free-articles-zone.com

Friday, April 10, 2009

My Top 10 Favourite Places to Stay in Laos



Top 10 Favourite Places to Stay i
My Top 10 Favourite Places to Stay in Laos



Author: Alex Aziz





Image by Bеn

Laos is a stunning country to visit especially if you are after a unique travel experience. Laos is rich in culture with several places such as Luang Prabang being designated as world heritage sites. The country is very safe and the people are incredibly hospitable.



Accommodation is improving and Laos has some excellent places to stay whether staying in the city or a secluded hideaway far away from it all in the mountains or on one of its many rivers. The Capital Vientiane and the world heritage city of Luang Prabang have some great quality hotels some with exquisite colonial charm and all with a genuine friendly service. Getting away to countryside offers stunning views of the countryside. This list is not in any particular order as different hotels offer different experiences some offering the best facilities and others offering the best views. Here are my favourite ten places to stay in Laos taking in a varied selection from across the country.



Image by Bеn

Seng Arun Bungalows



Set on the banks on the Mekong on Done Khone Island these are small family run bungalows, they are pretty basic in western terms as there is still no electricity on the Island, but the wooden styled bungalows are comfortable, all with en suite showers. They overlook the old French Railway Bridge, with their excellent balconies the day could be spent relaxing on a hammock with a book and enjoying the great view.



La Residence Phou Vao



Set in the World Heritage City of Luang Prabang the city is full of old colonial charm and La Résidence Phou Vao Hotel complements this charm, built in the 1950's and renovated in 2001 it is set at the top of Vao hill. The hotel gives stunning views of the surrounding mountains of Luang Prabang as well as Phou Si Temple and the town. It also offers first class facilities and amenities such as a spa and swimming pool. The hotel uses traditional rosewood, cotton and silk so that the modern facilities and rooms do not lose their tradition feel.



Vansana Resort



Vang Vieng is a truly great town lying on the Nam Song River with stunning limestone karsts to its west. Vang Vieng was previously known as a backpacker town with cheap basic accommodation and lots of adventure activities to choose from. There are now however more upmarket places to stay now inviting a different class of tourist. The Vansana Resort is one of these on these built on the banks of the Nam Song River and boasting excellent amenities. The rooms are excellent with private balconies where you can enjoy the view of the mountains. Or enjoy one of the facilities on offer such as a traditional massage a meal on the balcony on the river or a swim in its top rate swimming pool.



Pakbeng Lodge



A few years ago when travelling between the Thai / Laos border town of Chiang Khong / Houei Sai to Luang Prabang the two day boat trip involved a very uncomfortable overnight stay at Pak Beng. This was an unavoidable stop when taking the slow boat. Recently however the opening of the Pak Beng Lodge has changed all of that, with great views of the Mekong and great facilities it has made the two day journey to Luang Prabang and unforgettable one in the best possible way.



Chan-a-Mar Resort, Nong Khiaw



Probably one of the only luxury bungalow's in this part of Laos, set in Nong Khiaw amidst a backdrop of mountains and two rivers this place truly gives the feel of the real Laos. The owners are also set on preserving and promoting textiles of locally grown and made textiles through the GreenHeart Foundation. The bungalows have been individually designed with local materials, each with its own bathroom, hot shower and private balcony offering stunning views.



Kingfisher Lodge



This lodge is set in the stunning Xe Pian National Protected Area about 60 Km south of Pakse in Champasak Province. It has marketed itself as being an eco-lodge, and its wooden bungalows blend in with the lush forest. There is also plenty of opportunities to explore the Xe Pian National Protected Area taking an elephant ride to Ban Pho Pho or enjoying a two day trek to Ta-Ong where you will hear and maybe even see rare Gibbons and excellent birdlife.



Senesothxeun Hotel



Senesothxeun is one of the newest places in Southern Laos, taking the accommodation options on Don Khong Island to a new level, with old charm and the great aura it gives out, it is a remarkable place to stay. The rooms are all luxury with mod-cons and private balconies, this is the place to stay if you are after luxury in the heart of the natural wetlands of Si Pan Don.



Settha Palace



The Settha Palace is set in the heart of Vientiane and has to be one of the best places to stay in Laos an old colonial style hotel build in the early 1930's, the hotel has been restored and is a true masterpiece, with an abundance of old colonial charm. Facilities and service is second to none with landscaped gardens and a swimming pool where you can cool off.



Maison Souvannaphoum



This was the former home of a Lao prince, a boutique hotel set in Luang Prabang it blends in a traditional and modern style excellently. The interior design leaves no compromise with rich silk textiles draped on the walls and ceilings. The facilities are first grade with a spa, swimming pool all set amidst tropical gardens, the food is excellent with top class French and Laotian cuisine and the views from the private balconies unmatched.



La Folie Lodge



On the Island of Don Daeng near the World Heritage site of Wat Phu, this resort is top class giving you the best of both worlds, excellent facilities with a swimming pool and a great sandy beach on the Mekong but you are also on a secluded Island with a great beach on the river! You can explore the island by bicycle or by foot and there are even some old ruins to see on the Island.



Hotel and Tour bookings for these and other hotels or tours in Laos can be made through http://www.xplore-asia.com/ tour specialists in South East Asia.





Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hotels-articles/my-top-10-favourite-places-to-stay-in-laos-460251.html





About the Author:



After traveling in South East Asia for several years and falling in love with the area in particular Laos. Xplore-Asia was formed with the aim of promoting tours to increase responsible tourism for the local people and show the world the beauty of this area. After setting up operations in South East Asia, Xplore-Asia expanded into the UK and is Directed by Alex Aziz.







Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Singapore Travel- an Amazing Experience



ingapore Travel- an Amazing Experienc
Singapore Travel- an Amazing Experience



Author: Nancy Eben





Planning on a holiday in Asia, Singapore travel is the number one choice for millions of visitors who visit it very year, sometimes even exceeding the people of the city. The organized Singapore tourism industry provides the visitors with an excellent, modern infrastructure, a safe, clean and friendly environment. Singapore is a city with many faces to explore and discover. Right from exciting shopping options, food, vibrating nightlife, amusement parks, to sightseeing, one will find all here. All this has given the country another name of entertainment. It enjoys a unique location and is made up of islands between the countries of Malaysia and Indonesia. Packed with numerous attractions it is difficult to unravel all but some of the attractions are worth visiting.

Singapore Zoo

Image by the_macats



The Singapore Zoo is a star attraction during Singapore travel with almost a million tourists visiting it every year. It is an amazing experience watching the animals in their natural environment. It is located in central Singapore, close to the night safari. It covers an area of 28 hectares and inhabits more than 150 different species of animals. Some of the species here are very rare and there are very few zoos, which can match up to it. The environment is so created that it s more like walking in a forest rather than a man made place. One can attend the animal shows that take place daily, whereas the children can enjoy camel rides or share food with an orangutan in the zoo's Children's World section.



Orchard Road



Orchard Road is Singapore’s leading shopping areas and center of tourist activity. This area is the most recommended by all due to the lively atmosphere around here. The luxury hotels, excellent restaurants, international malls selling the latest and branded stuff, coffee bars, wine bars and much more all make it a hot spot amongst tourists. The mane of this place comes from the orchard and pepper plantations that once existed here.



Jurong town

Jurong town is the center of the Singapore industry and home to number of popular tourist attractions. The town has a Chinese garden, Singapore discovery center and the Jurong Bird Park. Of these, the Jurong Bird Park is a very popular tourist attraction spread, over 20 hectares of area and about 1million visitors come each year. The park has received many awards for its services and it is the result of the country’s efforts towards the conservation of the regions natural beauty and birdlife. The park has the largest number of birds when compared to any other park in the world. There is more for which the park is known for, it has the world’s largest indoor aviary, then the world’s tallest artificial/ manmade waterfall is also found here.



Sentosa Island



Image by DavidSciora

A trip to the Sentosa Island is a must when visiting Singapore as it is regarded as the best places for travel and Singapore tourism. It is a 390-hectare amusement park located south of Singapore and about two million people visit it every year. The island is easily accessible by road and cable car. Visitors would need complete 1-2 days to experience the various beaches, museums, aquariums, parks, and enjoy the walks, rides and much more. The island runs its own transportation and even has 5 star hotels for accommodation.



Map of Singapore is very helpful and handy when touring the city, as it becomes easy to chalk out your city tours and the routes.





Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hotels-articles/singapore-travel-an-amazing-experience-436292.html





About the Author:



Nancy Eben is an associate editor of http://www.quickbooker.com . The website offers exclusive information of Singapore and map of Singapore. We also provide online hotel reservation of Singapore travel . We appreciate your feedback and queries at nancy@quickbooker.com







Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Going Underground: Find a Hidden Edinburgh

oing Underground: Find a Hidden Edinburgh

Going Underground: Find a Hidden Edinburgh

Author: Jamie Rigwell





At the heart of many a tourist’s wish list is the ability to try and discover the interesting side of any city they are visiting. Museums, art galleries and visitor centres are all excellent tourist attractions – but they don’t always teach you about the quirkier and more hidden culture of a city. And Edinburgh in particular has a fascinating – and sometimes rather murky – past waiting to be discovered.



If you visit any new city, it is advisable - and often rewarding - to do some investigating of your own, in order to get off the beaten track and find the hidden secrets it has to offer. Edinburgh is quite unique and any personal investigation may well lead you below street level and into the eerie vaults that lurk beneath the old town.



Originally used as shop stores back in the 1700s, they were then gradually abandoned and adopted by less savoury underclass dwellers and used as slums, brothels and hide-outs. Naturally things turned a little sour and in this cramped, gloomy and lifeless vault atmosphere petty crimes, robberies and murders are reported to have taken place. In the mid 1800s the vaults were closed down, but that is far from the end of their story.



Fast forward to present day and most of the vault rooms have now been re-discovered and excavated by hand; destined for an equally dark and mysterious role in present day Edinburgh. The vaults are now the most chilling area to visit in search of ghosts, spirits and poltergeists – and many of the top city ghost tours will take you down into their depths with little more than a torch for company.



The vaults are thought to be one of the most haunted places in the city. And because of the crime and unlawful activity that is said to have taken place, myth has it that many unhappy and restless souls are still lurking down there in ghostly form.



Some of the tours offer overnight stays down in the vaults, but this will likely only appeal to the very brave among you. Therefore, you can rest assured knowing that most Edinburgh hotels on the whole offer fewer dark tales and are not likely to be home to any spooks.



Edinburgh can prove the ideal location for those of you who fancy exploring the hidden depths of a city; and you can’t get much more hidden than the vaults. What’s more, the old town area of Edinburgh offers scenic and beautiful attractions to wander around in their own right, trailing down the quaint alleyways to discover the quirky old winding closes. However, just watch out for whatever – or whomever – might be lurking round that next turn.





Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/going-underground-find-a-hidden-edinburgh-831866.html





About the Author:



Jamie Rigwell writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.







Sunday, February 15, 2009

Travelling On The Eurostar Passenger Train To Paris

Travelling On The Eurostar Passenger Train To Paris

By http://www.free-articles-zone.com/author/14111">Martyn Davis





The Eurostar is a passenger train that will get you to Paris from London very quickly but do not get this confused with the EuroTunnel, which is the train shuttle service that also allows cars and coaches to travel across the Channel.



If you do not wish to take your car abroad or do not like flying, the Eurostar is a great alternative with less hassle and no luggage weight restrictions, plus you arrive in the heart of the city of Paris from the UK in only around two and half hours.



The Eurostar used to depart from Waterloo station, but it now departs from the historical Victorian St Pancras International Station in London and goes through to the just as historical Gare du Nord Train Station in Paris France.



St Pancras station has been renovated to its former glory, even with a replica of the original station clock in place and is the starting point of your holiday to France, so be sure to leave time to experience this fantastic building with its incredible feature of a glass and steel train shed that was actually the largest enclosed space in the world when built and enjoy a drink underneath this structure at the longest Champagne bar in Europe.



There are also numerous shops and cafes at the St Pancras International station along with free WiFi connection plus in the departure lounge there are facilities for recharging electrical items such as laptops and certain carriages on the Eurostar also have power sockets for plugging in items such as a mobile phone or games like the Nintendo DS. However, as of 2008 there is no WiFi access on the train itself and you are charged for this facility in the Gare du Nord station in Paris.



When it comes to booking your tickets for the Eurostar you can have these sent to an address in the UK, Belgium or in France, or you can arrange to collect these from the ticket office just prior to departure, but by booking early, which you can do up to four months in advance, you are likely to get a good deal and choose the seats you want.



Yes, you can actually choose exactly what seats you would like, not just whether you would like First Class with drink and meal included or Second Class that is known as Standard.



The way the seats are laid out is also different between the carriages with some being airline style, whilst others are positioned so that you can look at each other. Some even have tables, and this is great if travelling with family or friends, plus is easier if you are with young children as they have space to play. Also, if you are travelling with young children, then you may wish to be near to either the front or rear of the train, as this is where the baby changing facilities are located and of course you can also choose the option of a window seat to admire the French countryside prior to your arrival in Paris.



It is obviously a good idea to look at one of the detailed plans that are available to choose where you would like to be seated, yet do bear in mind that if you are not booking through Eurostar and going to one of the many online firms, then you may not be able to choose specific seating.



Eurostar runs every day except for the 25th December and because they run virtually every hour, you can choose the time of day or night for travel, but some off-peak times are quite a bit cheaper than others. Also children under the age of four are free providing they do not take up a seat and there is a discounted price for children up to the age of eleven.



But instead of going to Paris you can also utilise the Eurostar to get to Brussels and this journey normally stops at the city of Lille, which is the capital of the Nord-Pas de Calais region in France. Also, in the summer on set days Eurostar run a direct service from London to Avignon in the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur region and on set days during the ski season they run a service directly to the French Alps for those that like skiing in France.



Now we know this is probably a silly point to make, but do not forget your passport as you do still have to go through passport control, although check in is a lot quicker than when you are flying and you do keep your luggage with you at all times, so even though there are no weight restrictions on a suitcase, you need to make sure you can lift it!



The Gare du Nord train station in Paris is also a main connection point for other destinations in Europe such as Germany, so it is an extremely busy train station, but if you are thinking of staying in Paris, then upon departing, you can either go through the main concourse and onto the streets of Paris and take a walk or go to the taxi stand just outside the station. Alternatively if you go downstairs you will be at the Metro station ready to take you to another part of Paris.



So through the wonders of engineering and technology, the journey between London and Paris is a convenient and comfortable way to travel, whether it is for business or for pleasure and a memorable holiday in France.



www.placesinfrance.com - Martyn Davis European Traveller, Author, Photographer and Business Development Manager, For all your French holiday needs and travel guide to Paris and France, with tourist information, landmarks and attractions - http://www.placesinfrance.com/eurostar_channel_tunnel_crossing.html



Article Source: 'http://www.articles.co.il/article.php?id=203832'>http://www.free-articles-zone.com



Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Affordable Honeymoon Packages Ease the Budget

ffordable Honeymoon Packages Ease the BudgeAffordable Honeymoon Packages Ease the Budget<br />By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Erwin_Rostuzing]Erwin Rostuzing<br /><br />Honeymoon travel packages range in price from very inexpensive to the most expensive plan that includes all the extras. With the associated range of incomes and budgets among young, married couples today, it is possible that the moderately priced honeymoon package that attracts one couple might be completely out of reach for another family starting out. But travel planners and tour companies have been able to put together packages that almost anyone can afford, while making sure that these offerings are remunerative for the company.<br /><br />Some couples may worry that an affordable honeymoon trip might not get them far from home, or to a somewhat exotic location. It is certainly true that the necessary expenses of a wedding and setting up a home may limit the honeymoon budget, but there are ways to compensate for this. Some couples are fortunate to have the family help with or pay for the honeymoon as a wedding present. Having numerous guests contribute toward the honeymoon is another option that opens a lot of travel doors.<br /><br />Cruise ship companies have designed some affordable honeymoon trips as well, featuring the relaxing lifestyle of a cruise as a great way to start life together. Getting away on a cruise, during which all amenities are provided and included, is an excellent way to leave work schedules and the stress of wedding plans behind. The wide range of cruise options makes this choice quite popular. Couples can choose to spend their honeymoon in such wonderful locations as Alaska, the Caribbean or Europe. The options include everything from simply relaxing on deck in the sun to entertainment and dancing in the clubs and theatres on board. Of course, the best part of all this is that cruise packages are available in nearly every price range, with options for smaller cabins a great way to limit the expense.<br /><br />Couples planning a honeymoon trip should start by asking a few questions about goals and objectives for the trip. If the beach is the desired destination, this should be put at the top of the priority/planning list. There are some excellent beach resorts close to home for just about everyone. Suffice to say it isn't necessary to travel halfway around the world to get to a beautiful beach. Larger budgets might allow a trip to Tahiti, while those on a more limited financial standing can find excellent relaxation in the Florida, Virginia or California sand.<br /><br />For some who want to include golf in their activities, the opportunities range from the more expensive trip to the home of golf, Scotland, to the more affordable trip to Florida, the Gulf Coast of Mississippi, or the sunshine of Phoenix, Arizona. Never fear, honeymoon package trips are available to all of these wonderful destinations.<br /><br />Some honeymoon couples choose to stay in a home on their trip, rather than incur the expense of a five-star hotel or a resort villa. Home exchanges have become quite popular in recent years and this choice can trim a few dollars of any honeymoon trip. Because lodging and the associated amenities are a large part of honeymoon costs, a bit of creativity can help keep the expenses in line.<br /><br />The author Erwin Rostuzing is particularly interested in information like engagement ring contemporary. From his writings like [http://www.engagement-rings-tips.com]http://www.engagement-rings-tips.com, the writer affirmed his experience on [http://www.engagement-rings-tips.com/contemporary-engagement-rings.html]topics relating to contemporary rings.<br /><br />Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Erwin_Rostuzing http://EzineArticles.com/?Affordable-Honeymoon-Packages-Ease-the-Budget&id=1972680<br /><br />
Affordable Honeymoon Packages Ease the Budget

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Erwin_Rostuzing]Erwin Rostuzing



Honeymoon travel packages range in price from very inexpensive to the most expensive plan that includes all the extras. With the associated range of incomes and budgets among young, married couples today, it is possible that the moderately priced honeymoon package that attracts one couple might be completely out of reach for another family starting out. But travel planners and tour companies have been able to put together packages that almost anyone can afford, while making sure that these offerings are remunerative for the company.



Some couples may worry that an affordable honeymoon trip might not get them far from home, or to a somewhat exotic location. It is certainly true that the necessary expenses of a wedding and setting up a home may limit the honeymoon budget, but there are ways to compensate for this. Some couples are fortunate to have the family help with or pay for the honeymoon as a wedding present. Having numerous guests contribute toward the honeymoon is another option that opens a lot of travel doors.



Cruise ship companies have designed some affordable honeymoon trips as well, featuring the relaxing lifestyle of a cruise as a great way to start life together. Getting away on a cruise, during which all amenities are provided and included, is an excellent way to leave work schedules and the stress of wedding plans behind. The wide range of cruise options makes this choice quite popular. Couples can choose to spend their honeymoon in such wonderful locations as Alaska, the Caribbean or Europe. The options include everything from simply relaxing on deck in the sun to entertainment and dancing in the clubs and theatres on board. Of course, the best part of all this is that cruise packages are available in nearly every price range, with options for smaller cabins a great way to limit the expense.



Couples planning a honeymoon trip should start by asking a few questions about goals and objectives for the trip. If the beach is the desired destination, this should be put at the top of the priority/planning list. There are some excellent beach resorts close to home for just about everyone. Suffice to say it isn't necessary to travel halfway around the world to get to a beautiful beach. Larger budgets might allow a trip to Tahiti, while those on a more limited financial standing can find excellent relaxation in the Florida, Virginia or California sand.



For some who want to include golf in their activities, the opportunities range from the more expensive trip to the home of golf, Scotland, to the more affordable trip to Florida, the Gulf Coast of Mississippi, or the sunshine of Phoenix, Arizona. Never fear, honeymoon package trips are available to all of these wonderful destinations.



Some honeymoon couples choose to stay in a home on their trip, rather than incur the expense of a five-star hotel or a resort villa. Home exchanges have become quite popular in recent years and this choice can trim a few dollars of any honeymoon trip. Because lodging and the associated amenities are a large part of honeymoon costs, a bit of creativity can help keep the expenses in line.



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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Erwin_Rostuzing http://EzineArticles.com/?Affordable-Honeymoon-Packages-Ease-the-Budget&id=1972680





Friday, January 30, 2009

Royal Palace – Symbol of the Kingdom of Cambodia

Royal Palace – Symbol of the Kingdom of Cambodia

Author: Naveen Marasinghe


Image by inhiu

The Royal palace was built over hundred years as a means of serving the king, his family and other foreign dignitaries of Cambodia. The three main compounds of Royal Palace which are divided by walls are named as the Silver Pagoda, Khemarin Palace and Throne Hall. The total area of the palace covers an area of 174,870 square metres.

The primary audience hall of the King, The Throne Hall is utilized for official meeting, diplomatic meetings and coronations. It was the second building to be built in this complex. Sometimes called the 'Moonlight Pavilion' The Chanchhaya Pavilion, is the place of the royal dancers and the place to hold state and royal banquets. Hor Samran Phirun is considered as the royal rest house and waiting area of the king. Hor Samrith Phimean houses a display of royal ceremonial objects and costumes on the ground floor.

Amongst the Khmer-style buildings stands alone the Napoleon III Pavilion which looks like a European style building serving as the place that houses the royal memorabilia. Used for royal meetings and receptions is the Phochani Pavilion which was built in 1912. The Damnak Chan which was constructed in 1953 is the venue for all the administrative offices; however this place is closed to the public.

Within the same large compound of the palace lies the 'Silver Pagoda' which was named after the solid silver floor tiles that decorate building of the temple. The Silver Pagoda complex consists of the temple Wat Preah Keo Morokat and other structures such as a library, shrines stupas, monuments, minor buildings and the other galleries. The general public has the opportunity of visiting most of the other places in this complex except the area of the actual Royal residence, the Khemarin Palace. Any visitor of the Royal Palace can find accommodation in any Phnom Penh Hotel such as Raffles Phnom Penh .

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/royal-palace-symbol-of-the-kingdom-of-cambodia-747300.html

About the Author:
Naveen Marasinghe is an Online Marketing Executive at eMarketingEye which is a search engine marketing company that offers integrated Internet marketing services and specializes in hotel Internet marketing industry.