Visit Boquete, Panama - Travel Information, Sites, Places to Visit

By now there is a good chance that you have heard some of the buzz that has made Boquete - bow-keh-tay, Panama a top destination for nature lovers and eco-tourists as well as a highly-rated retirement destination. As it appears that a period of economic uncertainty may be looming in some parts of the world and rising land prices in Panama may be taking a brief pause, this may be the perfect time to plan your first visit to explore this beautiful little town and check out the real estate offerings. Now the question arises ... How do we get there?

Location

The country of Panama is located between Costa Rica to the west and Colombia to the east. The capital, Panama City and the Panama Canal is located closer to the eastern end, while Boquete and its airport hub, David - dah-veed - is at the opposite end, not far from the border with Costa Rica. This location gives Boquete much of its quiet charm, but requires a little extra planning to make the trip. More information about your travel options will follow.

Best Time to Visit

There are two seasons in Panama and especially Boquete. The green season is September through December, with the heaviest rains in October. Often mornings are clear with rain coming in the late afternoon. The dry season begins in January, making the best months to visit from January through August. Don't forget, even in the green season daily temperatures are in a very comfortable range from the high 60's to high 70's. Nice!

Getting to Panama City

There are indications that a major expansion of the David airport near Boquete is about to begin, bringing with it many more direct flights from the U.S. and other countries. Even as these options increase it is a good idea to spend at least a couple of days in Panama City at the beginning of your adventure. We like SideStep.com for airfare comparisons and TripLister.com for hotel reservations.

There are two airports that serve the Panama City area. The international airport Tocumen - airport code PTY, is located about 20 miles outside of the city center. This is probably where you will enter the country. The smaller, regional airport located just outside of downtown is Albrook - airport code PAC and is where you will connect to flights to David. Departure times are somewhat limited out of Albrook. Another good reason to spend a night, or two, in Panama City. Note: There is another airfare alternative that skips Panama City. You can fly first into San Jose, Costa Rica -airport code SJO then take Air Panama from there to David. This is not recommended unless your schedule from home fits nicely with the limited connecting flights on Air Panama. Once you've arrived at Tocumen International you will need to take a taxi or shuttle into Panama City unless you are renting a car there - beware, the city center is traffic madness. Current price for a taxi is about $27 each way.

It is highly recommended that you make arrangements with a local tour guide to pick you up at the airport. This guide can get you to your hotel, and even take you on a personalized tour of shopping, cultural, canal, scenic areas, so you can get comfortable with the city with a minimum of worries. After that, taxis are just a few dollars to almost anywhere in the city. Although surprises are few, always verify the fare before getting into the cab. A little Spanish practice will be helpful at this point, and all along your journey. Some places to visit while in Panama City might be Casco Viejo, the historical center, the city center - watch out for heavy traffic, the Amador Causeway - walking, bike riding, ocean and canal-ship views, great restaurants, casinos, and, of course, the Panama Canal and its museum. While Panama has a relatively low crime rate there are a few areas to avoid, especially at night. Check with your hotel for advice before heading out on your own.

Heading for David and Boquete

There are three ways to get to Boquete from Panama City. The first option is to take a bus to the city of David, then rent a car there for the 45-minute drive to Boquete. Buses depart from the Albrook airport several times daily for the 7-8 hour ride, with prices about $25 each way. Check with your hotel for details. The second option is to rent a car either at Tocumen Airport or in Panama City and drive to Boquete. Outside of the city, the drive is actually quite easy and the roads are good - Pan-American Highway, four lanes part of the way. The trip will take 6 to 8 hours depending on weather and stops. A side trip to Coronado on the coast or El Valle in the mountains, along the way is a nice break. Most travelers prefer the scenic one-hour flight from Albrook Airport to David. Your two choices are Air Panama or Aeroperlas. You can then rent a car at the David airport from companies like Dollar, National, etc. Here's a tip: Luggage weights are strictly controlled - about 30 pounds per person - on the regional airlines, and you may be charged for overweight bags. Consider leaving some items in a spare suitcase at your hotel in Panama City and pick them up on your return trip.

David, Panama

This city, the capital of Chriqui province, has a population of about125,000 people. While not much for scenery it will be your source for almost all purchases besides groceries, banking and restaurants while living in Boquete. Here in David you will find hardware stores, auto dealerships, most attorneys, government offices, Price Club - Costco, and even that famous American hamburger chain. If your schedule allows it is a good idea to have a look around town at either end of your trip into the highlands.

Beautiful Boquete, Panama

By this time in your journey you will probably be ready for the peace and beauty that is unique to Boquete. The turnoff from the Pan American Highway in David is clearly marked, but anyone can give you directions. The drive is about 45 minutes as the highway gently takes you to the cool elevation of over 3000 feet - 1000 meters - above sea level. Allow a little extra time in the event you get behind a slow-moving truck or bus. The road to Boquete has been approved for widening to four lanes, and construction will begin shortly. As you climb upward the stunning Volcan Baru will come into view. Later, dropping into the little valley of Boquete is a sight you will remember always. That being said, here is a little warning about your first visit: If you have been doing research on Boquete and have pictured a quaint, fairy-tale town out of the Napa Valley wine country, prepare for a little reality check. Boquete, although charming and constantly changing, is still a sleepy Latin-American town. Fear not! Everywhere you go, and everyone you meet, will make you come to understand what a special place this is. Slow down, breathe in the pure air, exchange the local greeting Buenas several times, and you will begin to feel the vibe.

What to See in Boquete

Once you are settled into your hotel - Panamonte Inn, Boquete Garden Inn and Los Establos Inn are all good options, start with a walking tour of downtown Boquete. Practice your Spanish while wandering in and out of the various shops. Visit the Romero Supermercado behind the central park to get an idea of local grocery prices and selection. Coffee, vegetables, fish, rum and chicken are very cheap, while American products like Kraft cheese are not. Also bordering the park is the local indoor farmer's market offering produce at great prices. Next, explore your dining options - Boquete Bistro, Panamonte Inn and Delicias Peru are highly recommended. Now it's time to take a driving tour of the area. There are three main loops to explore, all of which eventually bring you back into town. The first, Volcancito begins at the large visitor center at the top of the hill before heading into the valley, skirts the base of the volcano, and brings you back into town via El Salto Road. For the second loop, bear right at the fork at the top of town, pass the Panamonte Inn, drive up to the Palo Alto coffee-growing area and then back into central Boquete. Don't miss the Mi Jardin gardens just before you re-enter town. The third loop takes you across the bridge at the fairgrounds, near the central park again, up into the Jaramillo area, and then back into civilization passing the Los Establos Inn toward the end of the journey. Your hotel can give you many helpful ideas for activities including a hike up the volcano, coffee plantation tours, white-water rafting, nature and canopy tours, A.T.V. or horseback rides, and many other excursions.

Enjoy your visit to Panama!

Copyright 2008 Daniel Frey

[http://boquetelots.com/BoquetePanama.html]

All Inclusive Holiday Packages Are Often Taken Abroad

All Inclusive Vacations?

When you sign on to a travel web site or walk into to a regular travel agency and the staff talk about "all inclusive vacations," you should know that the term doesn't mean you do everything humanly possible during the holiday. It does mean that every major expense in your holiday will be covered. If the idea of a holiday means putting your brain on hold, you will be delighted with an all inclusive vacation package.

What Is Included

Your plane ride is usually included together with your accommodation, amusement and most of your lunches and dinners. You can obtain all the nitty-gritty details about the activities from your travel agency, or your favorite travel website. There is one other possibility for further information and that is from some luxury hotel chains. The common all-inclusive holiday packages are cruises that are often taken abroad. On board these luxurious floating hotels even the gratuities and beverages are included in what you pay. However, it's not as if you can do a lot of evaluation shopping once the boat casts off.

Land All Inclusive Resorts

A frequent critique of an all-inclusive resort is that they don't help the local economy. Another complaint is they damage the local environment. Holding this view critiques say that most resorts are found in relatively remote areas away from major local population centers, making it hard to see any local sights or patronize local business.

Believers of the all-inclusive tell how that these land resorts always attract large numbers of visitors, who travel abroad through local airports and towns spending money as they go on to the resort.

The common all-inclusive land holiday is the beach side hotel. Your stay often includes lodging, activities, tips, some beverages and an auto lease, as well as the cost of the flight. For these packages, your provider will often hold leisure activities for their guests upon arrival free of charge. However, especially when abroad, this means that you'll be mingling with other loud, sweaty drinking humans. For an upscale all-inclusive, you will have the alternative of staying in a luxurious comfy room that you don't have to clean.

Find out What Isn't Included

Bear in mind there aren't any stupid inquiries when it comes to discovering what isn't included in your all inclusive holiday package. Is there complimentary transport from the terminal to the resort, so that you'll not have to concern yourself with taxicabs. For these of compound incidents you aught to take some pre-exchanged cash with you. And further, should the unthinkable happen and you require medical emergencies you'll need to be able to pay for it.

In addition, you may see if there are any great enticements that matches your traveling situation. There are all-inclusive vacation tour packages customized for, among others, households, singles, writers, or even golfers. A complete land resort holiday of this type can last from 3 days to 3 weeks. Be certain just how long the holiday is for, and how late you can reserve without incurring a penalty.

Before paying for any all-inclusive holiday tour package, be certain you know if and what the money back guidelines are. Find out the deadline for cancellations for getting a refund. Some places will make you pay a fine if you have to cancel under a week before your intended trip.

Larry Pudoky usually produces articles on themes similar to Portugal. His comments on portugal and alte Portugal are published on his online publications.

Melbourne Tours - 5 Day-Trips You Must Take From Melbourne

Melbourne is lucky in that it has an amazing variety of landscapes within a 1-2 hour drive - giving you a lot of choice when planning Melbourne tours or day trips. You can explore the gold rush days, go on a luxury winery tour, surf a world famous beach or bushwalk in a stunning National Park.

Here is a selection of Melbourne tours to get you started:

1. A popular day trip is to the Dandenong Ranges, about 1 hour east of Melbourne.
   
   The drive through the Dandenongs is stunning because of its tall mountain ash forests, fern gullies and temperate rain forests - feels like in a fairy tale. Mountain ash can reach a height of 110m and driving or walking through a whole forest of these is awe-inspiring.
   
   The other attractions of the Dandenongs are the small villages - I recommend Sassafras - with quirky art and craft shops, and intimate cafes and restaurants.



2. For a bit of class, go on a Yarra Valley Wine tour. The Yarra Valley is only an hour's drive NE of Melbourne.
   
   The scenery and colors around Melbourne are unique - much more intense than in most parts of Australia. You get lush greens, illuminated by golden light - particularly when the sun breaks through on cloudy days.
   
   Apart from stunning scenery, there are many good quality wineries in the Yarra Valley. A great place to go for wine tasting, lunch, art galleries or a balloon flight over the valley! I also recommend Healesville Sanctury, a native animal park in a natural setting.




3. North of Melbourne is the famous Hanging Rock - a stunning rock configuration, forming the top of a mountain.
   
   Hanging Rock is famous for the mysterious vanishing of a group of school girls and their teacher in 1900. Just by climbing through the rock formations you get involved in that mystery. It has been subject to a novel and Peter Weir film.
   
   From there it is not far to Daylesford. Daylesford is a gold mining town with character - associated with Swiss-Italians and the mineral springs. It has been a spa resort area from the late 1880's and is still a place for romantic getaways and pampering yourself.



4. Driving from Melbourne towards the NW, you find the gold rush town of Ballarat. Ballarat was the centre of the gold rush craze, oozing money and riches. Grand Victorian and Edwardian Heritage buildings and tree-lined avenues can take you back to its 19th century glory days.
   
   Ballarat's most famous attraction is Sovereign Hill, a 35-acre open-air museum recreating the gold mining heydays, including old buildings, actors in authentic costumes engaged in 1850s activities. - Well worth a day trip, and great for kids as well.



5. A list of Melbourne tours is not complete without a visit to the beach. There are surf beaches on either side of Melbourne's Port Phillip Bay. A great day trip is towards the SW, to Torquay. This is where the surfing championships are held at Bells Beach.
   
   
   However, you don't have to be a surfer to enjoy the beaches. It is a popular day trip for Melburnians wanting to hit the waves. It is also the gateway to a greater Melbourne tour of the Great Ocean Road

This is only the beginning of a long list of Melbourne tours.

I still have to tell you about the Great Ocean Road, the Grampians, the Mornington Peninsula, the Penguins on Phillip Island the Victorian High Country, Wilsons Prom...

Warm regards,

Brigitte Seum

© Copyright http://www.we-love-melbourne.net/. All Rights Reserved. You may use this article in its entirety with the Author resource and links.

Brigitte Seum provides insider information about Melbourne. She is a Melburnian by choice and is continuing building her site into an information rich Melbourne resource. Sign up for her free monthly Ezine Insiders Melbourne here.

Tour Guides I Have Known

At heart I am a novelist. I have written a terrorist thriller entitled "Nine Lives Too Many" and a suspenseful, modern paranormal story called "The Daemon in Our Dreams." I have a new novel coming out soon which deals with rice queens. Most of my fictional efforts are chronicled on my website - http://www.senneffhouse.com. Now and then I like to go back to my start as a travel writer. Especially I like travel writing with humor interspersed. My novel "The Daemon in Our Dreams" is essentially a travel novel peopled by many tour guides.

Heard any good tour guides lately?

On an Alaska tour our female guide said, "We have a saying here in Alaska. There are nine men for every woman. The odds are good, but the goods are odd."

But the male guides fight back in this battle of the sexes. One male said he had a tee- shirt made with the inscription: "Girls, remember when you get back to the lower forty-eight, you're going to be ugly again."

Another male Alaskan guide the next day, "Here in Alaska the men are men, and the women are too."

Every time I hit a new city on a land trip or a new port on a cruise ship, I take an orientation tour with a guide. They are called cultural orientations when they stop at a museum instead of at a crafts market where the tour guide's relatives work.

Guides can tell jokes, propagandize, scapegoat, recite poetry, and tell whoppers. They have a captive audience for a few hours, a day, or in some cases a week or more. For some reason the tour guides in Alaska are the best. Here are some illustrations of the breed from all over:

On Moorea, sister island of Tahiti, our guide Ben said:

"This is the church where the members of a certain denomination worship. They come to my door two or three times a week with pamphlets. Please give me your address so I can give it to them, and they can visit your house instead of mine."

Alaskan guides are full of bald eagle and bear stories. One guide told us about the black bear that wandered onto the airport and into the arrival area. He got on the luggage carousel and started riding it around. They thought they would get rid of him by turning the carousel off. He growled and acted menacingly so they had to let him continue his ride until the game wardens trapped him and took him away.

A guide told this story:

"Two bears, a male and a female, attack and eat two men who were out hiking in the woods. One man was a Pole and one man a Czech. The two bears were shot by hunters. Autopsies were performed. The Pole was found in the female so they knew that the Czech was in the male."

On a Princess ship in Alaska while we were having martinis in the observation lounge, the captain would come on the p.a. "This is Captain Glug from the bridge. On the port side on the tallest tree, there are two bald eagles. About fifteen minutes later he would announce. "On the middle tree, again port side, you will see two more bald eagles."

Our barmaid said, "I think the captain has a picture of two eagles pasted to his eyeglasses. When he looks out of the corner of his eye he sees them in the trees."

The comedian on the ship would imitate the captain, "To the starboard there are three killer whales breaching, seven porpoises jumping, and three sea otters with calves floating on a icebergs. On the port side two grizzly bears are washing salmon by the waterside, and there are two bald eagles that Princess Lines pays to follow the ship to Seward."

Guides can give very different versions of the same thing. On Bora Bora in French Polynesia a huge abandoned Hyatt hotel site with only the foundations stands by the seaside. A local guide said the reason that the hotel had been abandoned was because of the builders' greed, and the costs of mismanagement, graft and corruption.

Anthropologist Bill Kolans on Raiatea gave a different version. Polynesians never really give up their land. Relatives are often buried in the backyard which helps to insure that the land will stay in the family. After the Hyatt builders had assembled land for their hotel, hundreds of Bora Borans came forward with claims on the land. To buy them all off would have been horrendously expensive, so the project was abandoned.

On tours of French Polynesia resentment against Chinese shopkeepers would surface. "There is such and such supermarket. It is owned by Chinese, and groceries are expensive there." The Chinese who were originally brought to Tahiti to work in the sugar fields, stayed on after the work in the fields ceased. They gradually became the merchant class and now own many banks and businesses.

One Tahitian guide said, "The French bake our bread, the Chinese deliver and sell it, and the Tahitians pay for it."

In Bora Bora one tour guide was incensed when a tourist asked him if they ever ate dogs. Paul Theroux in his book about Oceania found that some islanders in some archipelagos did eat dog. He thought that was why island dogs often seemed so bad tempered because they knew what was in store for them. Our guide said, "Of course we wouldn't eat dogs. They are our pets, members of the family. What do you think we are, savages?"

Then his whole mood changed abruptly and he said mischievously, "Now Americans, that's a different story. They are really tasty, especially the fingers. We call it finger food."

Captain Cook hundreds of years ago detailed South Seas cannibalism.

In Alaska tour guides specialize in poetry recitations at tour's end. Their favorite is Robert Service, the Kipling of the Yukon, and on many a bus tour just before tip giving, you will hear "The Shooting of Dan McGrew," "The Cremation of Sam McGee," or "The Spell of the Yukon." They are recited from memory, and somehow the lines seem more immediate as you travel through a gold rush frontier town like Skagway.

We took a steam engine train ride in vintage railway cars that followed the gold rush trail from Skagway over the mountains to the take-off point for Dawson. In 1898 thousands of gold seekers braved the awful conditions, and thousands of pack animals perished. Over the loud speaker on the train a woman tour guide read from an account by Jack London that poignantly described how these animals fell or were thrown over the steep mountain trails.

In Skagwag our guide brought us to the old graveyard where Soapy Smith and Frank Reid are buried. Soapy Smith was the leader of a gang that terrorized the town in Gold Rush days. Reid shot Soapy and on his grave is an inscription that says he gave his life for the honor of Skagway. Nearby is the grave of a woman of pleasure. On her tombstone it says: "She gave her honor for the life of Skagway."

In Hamburg, Germany, a tour guide trumpeted patriotic ecology at work. A block away from the notorious red light district on the Reeperbahn, he pointed out some women he said were prostitutes. "Good for them. They are saving precious energy. They are walking to work."

I've met a lot of good tour guides over the years, and I have laughed with and learned from most of them.

John (Jack) Rooney’s latest novel is “The Rice Queen Spy.” His first book was the thriller “Nine Lives Too Many” featuring his series detective Denny Delaney pitted against the arch-terrorist Felix the Cat. That was followed by the suspenseful “The Daemon in Our Dreams” a blend of the naturalistic and the paranormal. His work schedule includes “Clawed Back from the Dead” a new Delaney effort.

He was born and educated in Springfield, Massachusetts (Classical High and American International College), went on to receive a master’s degree in English from Columbia University, and finished course work for his Ph.D. at N.Y.U. He has written book reviews, and feature and travel articles for newspapers and magazines. He served in the U.S. Army as a military policeman in AWOL apprehension and in Times Square and Vienna, Austria. Rooney’s website is http://www.senneffhouse.com

Phuket Scuba Diving - Explore The Underwater Life

Have you ever asked yourself about the best travel destination in the world? This question brings lots of answers to someone's mind. But if he or she is aware of the famous Island Phuket, then he won't take a chance to think twice. Every day, lots of people from different parts of the globe make their trip to this famous holiday destination. Now, this island is not only a tourist destination, but also has become a famous Phuket diving spot. You can find people of different age groups trying their luck in adventurous sport activities. Windsurfing, snorkeling, bungee jumping, kayaking are some of the love sports among teens and old age groups.

Certainly, this tourist island is famous for newbie and expert divers. During your trip to Phuket, you can also try your luck in this adventurous sport activity. Most of these divers have one aim that to have a wonderful diving experience in different diving sites in this island. The crystal clear water will drag you like a magnet and you will be happy to feel the outstanding ecosystem. For many travelers, Phuket diving is one of the best favorite pastime. In Phuket, you can get many diving service providers those are PADI license holder. If you have booked your stay in a villa, then you may surely get the opportunity to have a great diving tour.

Phuket villas are best for tourist those have come with their friends and family. As most of these villas offer great diving facilities to attract tourists. Isn't that a great chance to have a wonderful accommodation and also try diving activities? Indeed! This is a great opening for real divers. Within an affordable price, you can have wonderful diving tour and marine activity. For real diving experience Phuket villas are the best choice. One of the best places, where you can get detail information on diving in Phuket is the online arena. With the help of the Internet, you can easily find out diving location in Phuket and other types of marine sport activities.

Basically, in Phuket there are 5 PADI diving zones. You can also get yourself enrolled in 5 diving PADI courses and can become a PADI license holder. If you are not skilled in diving, then can take help from local diving agencies. These agencies will teach you all the forms and styles of scuba diving and will provide you with diving gears. So, there is nothing to worry, as you can easily learn scuba diving within few days and can become an expert. So, pack your luggage and make your trip to Phuket and feel the world of scuba diving.

To know more about Phuket Diving please log on to http://www.phuketthailand-travel.com/padi-scuba-diving-phuket.htm

Low Budget Arizona Vacations

Arizona is located in southwestern part of the United States. It is also known as "the Grand Canyon State." Arizona is known for its breathtaking locations, abundant wildlife, golf courses and health spas. There are luxury desert golf resorts that attract thousands of golf enthusiasts during the winter months. People plan their vacations to Arizona with their family and friends. There are low budget Arizona vacation packages that offer attractive prices and are popular with tourists.

The flourishing travel industry in Arizona provides excellent bargains on airfare, hotels and car rentals. They prove to be true budget-friendly vacation packages. People can enjoy their stay in luxury hotels and resorts of Phoenix, Sedona, Tucson, Flagstaff or any of the other cities in Arizona.

There is more excitement in a planned Arizona vacation. Generally, vacation packages include airfares, hotel accommodation based on occupancy and local sight seeing. There are many tour operators that methodically plan the vacation to make the holiday an enjoyable one. They tie up with different low budget hotels. People, looking forward to a relaxing vacation benefit by choosing low budget Arizona vacation packages.

In Arizona, there are vacation rentals that feature cabins, villas, cottages and vacation inns. There are also pet friendly Arizona vacation rentals that provide a convenient lodging option for people traveling with pets. Arizona lodging provides great value for a small budget. It provides a surplus of opportunities for recreation and awe-inspiring vacations. Most of the travel industry services of Arizona are available online. They provide a detailed description of their services along with the rates of different package tours. They need to send in details of their vacation dates and the cities they plan to visit. There are also sites of trip advisors, who provide useful suggestions to people selecting suitable low budget Arizona vacations.

Arizona Vacations provides detailed information on Arizona Vacations, Arizona Golf Vacations, Arizona Vacation Rentals, Arizona Spa Vacations and more. Arizona Vacations is affiliated with Phoenix Arizona Real Estate.

Pushkar Fair Ajmer - 2010

Pushkar an important religious place of Hindus is located at a distance of 11 km from Ajmer in Rajasthan State. This city is encircled by hills on three sides and sand dunes on the other which make it a beautiful city that summons scores of tourists from several parts of the globe. The foremost attraction of this place is annual Pushkar Camel Fair held every yearon the day of Karthik Purnima in October or November.

Pushkar Fair is a dramatic event which showcases the rich colors and vibrant life of Rajasthan age-old culture. It is the largest Camel Fair in the world celebrated on the bank of Pushkar Lake which houses the only Brahma Temple in the world. This cultural festivity is known round the globe for its number of cultural shows, exhibitions, dance, music, interesting competition, handicrafts, food and cattle trading. Some of the popular attractions of the Pushkar Fair are:

Cattle Trading:

Pushkar fair is known as the center stage of cattle trading because mass trading of cattle takes place. Camels are the focal point of cattle trading with another livestock. More than 25,000 camels are traded in Pushkar which makes it the largest camel trading zone in the world. Also cattle breeders from several regions of India come to Pushkar Fair to sell and buy livestock. Cattle are beautifully decorated with several colorful ornaments so they can attract prospective buyers during trading.

Folk Song and Folk Dance:

This cultural representation showcases the rich and vibrant age-old culture of Rajasthan. In this fair tourist get an opportunity to hear some of Rajasthan oldest folk songs like Hichaki, Sapno, Lawarji, Tejaji, Ramdeoji and Gogaji.

With this tourist also gets an opportunity to see some of the traditional folk dances of Rajasthan such as Ghoomar, Bhavai, Chari and more. These cultural activities enthrall tourists during their Pushkar festival tour.

Competitions:

Pushkar Fair is the hub several competitions which heighten the joy and fervor of this socio-cultural event. Some of the popular competitions of this fair are camel races, Matka phod, and mustaches, beards and turbans competition.

Pushkar fair is a three-day event, which call on scores of tourists from several parts of the globe. This festival is celebrated in the honor of Lord Brahma the God of creation. The interwoven charm of religious fervor and cultural vibrancy make this fair a high-spirited event of Rajasthan tourism.

Pushkar Fair is among the most popular attractions of Rajasthan Tourism which is famous for its electric celebration. It is held in the honor of Lord Brahma in the holy town of Pushkar located 11 km from the Ajmer City.

An Exotic Honeymoon That Never Ends

The honeymoon never really needs to be over. When you visit a tropical paradise on that first trip together, you'll have memories to last a lifetime-and you'll be hooked on sitting on the beach, enjoying the warm waters, and sampling the sumptuous cuisines of Asia. You'll go back for your second honeymoon, your third, your fourth, and on your 50th wedding anniversary. The honeymoon never ends when you choose a tropical paradise to start out your lives together.

Whether you're planning a June wedding or a December one, the honeymoon resorts in places like Bali, the Maldives, or the tropical paradise island of Phuket, Thailand will accommodate with warm weather year-round.

Honeymoons to fit any budget

When you choose an Asian destination for your special honeymoon trip, you can always find something to suit your budget. You'll have at your disposal the full range of amenities and resorts, from luxurious, five-star spas with staff that will cater to your every need, to a low-budget backpacking trek through Southeast Asia, and everything in between. Affordable and comfortable hotels are easy to find in most popular Asian destinations, and if you're in the mood for roughing it, it's not too hard to find a "guest house", hostel or basic room for as little as a few dollars a night.

What to do on your honeymoon in paradise

Besides the obvious, you'll have plenty to do while you're on your trip. You can enjoy one of the magnificent spas, explore ancient temples, and sample new and delicious foods that you've never before seen. Food is after all, the heart of romance, and there are few things more exciting-and intimate-than sharing an exotic meal in a tropical country.

And of course, there's nothing like a few days at a quaint beach resort, enjoying the warm tropical water and clean, white sand. You can spend your afternoon frolicking in the Andaman Sea or on the banks of the mighty Mekong River, then stroll down the beach to a comfy seat under the shade while attendants bring you a drink served in a coconut shell. And when your muscles grow weary from all those long walks on the beach-or whatever other activities may take a toll on you-you can enjoy a therapeutic massage together to rejuvenate your mind and body so you'll be ready for more.

You'll find that Asia is a prime honeymoon destination for newlyweds the world over, and it's easy to see why. Places like Maldives, Nepal, India, and Thailand are without a doubt some of the most romantic destinations on earth, and while there, you'll find that hoteliers, restaurateurs, and tour package operators enjoy catering to your special needs with very specialized and romantic getaway trips.

Honeymoon planning

Like any trip, a honeymoon takes some advance planning. Once you've decided on your itinerary, do some research on plane fares, and decide on the best time to leave. You don't have to leave right after the wedding--you can save big money often by waiting a few days and leaving mid-week. Be sure to take a detailed look at the many honeymoon vacation packages available, and compare not only the price, but the details as well. The cheapest one may not necessarily be the best deal. And just a small detail-ladies, you may want to avoid confusion at immigration, and book your tickets under your maiden name, since that will be the name on your passport unless you've changed it already.

And while planning ahead of time is essential, don't be afraid to be spontaneous. Once you've arrived, you'll be able to encounter many spectacular wonders that weren't in the guidebook, such as the delightful little sidewalk restaurant by your hotel, the stunning wilderness just outside of town, or the elephant ride through the jungle. Deviate from your plans once in a while and prepare to be delighted.

A Few Honeymoon Suggestions

There are hundreds of prime destinations that you'll enjoy as newlyweds, and you may even want to incorporate more than one into your itinerary. Here's five of Asia.com's favorite honeymoon destinations just to get you started:

Bali, Indonesia.
This scenic destination is without a doubt one of the most prized destinations for honeymooners. The majestic, natural beauty of Bali has drawn people the world over since the days of old. You'll find plenty of adventure on your trip to Bali,including trekking through the jungle and enjoying a look under the water with scuba gear. You can rent a room, a suite, or an entire villa, enjoy the pristine beach, and the company of the friendly Balinese people for an exciting and relaxing trip that you'll want to repeat time and time again.

Maldives.
If you're looking for tropical paradise, then this is it. The quintessential romantic getaway, Maldives features coral reefs, sand and sea amidst a tropical setting, excellent opportunities for scuba diving or snorkeling, and long walks on the beach. The colorful sea life underwater is simply amazing, and the resorts and spas will deliver an experience to remember.

Phuket, Thailand.
The largest of several islands off the coast of Thailand, Phuket (pronounced poo-ket') is one of the most common honeymoon hideaways in Southeast Asia, and one of the most pleasing. The beautiful and gentle sea ahs plenty to offer, but the honeymoon doesn't stop at the island itself. Go to the mainland and explore some of the most breathtaking tropical scenery in the world, and take advantage of some of the trekking opportunities. And needless to say, the Thai food is a paradise within paradise.

Macau, China.
Imagine Vegas multiplied by ten, with a twist of European and Asian culture thrown in for good measure. If you enjoy the excitement of night-life, Macau is the place to go. The casinos there are studies in extravagance, going way beyond just gaming tables, presenting an all-encompassing and complete experience with entertainment, plush hotel rooms, and of course, extravagant shopping opportunities.

Singapore.
Another popular honeymoon destination, this series of islands in Southeast Asia offers several romantic and secluded getaway spots, complete with fashionable and relaxing resort spas. Once you make it out of your hotel room though, you'll be delighted with the mix of Chinese, Malay, and Hindu cultures there, making Singapore a fascinating melting pot with extravagant cuisine and natural wonders everywhere you turn.

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From the Top - North America's Infamous Luxury Golf Vacation Tours, Top Resorts and PGA Rated Course

When you think of some of the most luxurious and prestigious luxury golf resorts and courses in the world, North America has some of the most renowned luxury golf destinations. In the realm of best golf vacations, no other area offers the distinguished golfer so many unmatched luxury golf courses and distinguished golf getaways. North American has some of most recognized luxury golf vacation venues from the spectacular Rockies Mountains of Canada, to luxury golf and spa resorts in Mexico, and of course top PGA rated golf courses and luxury golf resorts in the USA. From the famous Pebble Beach on California's coast, to the spectacular Banff and Whistler luxury golf resorts, North American has some of the best luxury golf holiday destinations in the world.

Beginning your golf pilgrimage in the north of the continent, you'll be awed by spectacular landscape of the Canadian Rocky Mountains equally matched by the PGA legend golf courses. A Canadian premiere golf holiday starts by traveling in comfort and style aboard the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer train journey, taking in the view. Canada elite golf packages also have the privileged luxury golf traveler staying and playing at the finest golf resorts in Vancouver and Whistler. Home to the 2010 Winter Olympics, Whistler also boasts Nicklaus North, one of the legend's favorites. From Vancouver's harbor take a float plane to an exclusive private golf and spa resort on a secluded island off the coast of British Columbia. You'll stay where top stars and business tycoons enjoy deep sea fishing and grizzly bear watching, while golfing on a course made only the more challenging because of the landscape and surroundings.

To the south, Mexico is home to some of the most secluded and exclusive golf resorts. Imagine a Mexico golf vacation for both the seasoned golf traveler and sailor. Picture a golf tour that puts your needs first as you experience superior golf, beach front luxury accommodation suites, and of course the thrill of commanding a crew on your own luxury yacht off Cabo in Mexico. Mexico's luxury holidays have you playing and staying along the stunning coastline and beaches of Mexico, at private beach resorts where the stars stay. Mexico's most exclusive golf resorts, spas and clubs offer some of the most exotic and luxurious golf holidays in North America.

On the US mainland, golf packages for the serious golfer would have to include signatures names like Pebble Beach, La Costa and Torrey Pines. Fly into Bandon Dunes for an amazing afternoon of golf indulgence. Off the mainland, Hawaii's top end golf vacations combine seaside premium accommodation, unparalleled golf, and first class transportation with limo and helicopter transfers.

For an even more tempting luxury golf experience, nothing comes close to Las Vegas. Las Vegas includes playing the best desert golf courses Sin City has to offer. Golf courses around Vegas include several PGA rated golf clubs. Off the course, Vegas has something for all tastes and speeds. From great theatre acts, star studded shows and entertainment only you can imagine, it also offers some of the most exclusive clubs, private suites and hottest parties. Celebrities of all type meet here.

Noted for their privileged status, these North American luxury golf destinations hold a well deserved golf reputation. From the celebrity frequented beaches and resorts of Mexico to California's famous Torrey Pines and Pebble Beach, to the majestic mountain golf in Whistler ad Banff Canada, these preeminent golf vacation destinations cover the full spectrum of the best golf and breathtaking beauty of North America. It is not uncommon for private jet transfers to be arranged to complete the exclusive luxury experience.

Keith Raymond is spends time every year in pursuit of the ultimate golf experience. While the game challenges him, he enjoys taking in the best that golf has to offer. Get an exclusive inside look or read more about these infamous North American luxury golf vacation getaways.

Kerala Honeymoon Tour - Make It Romantic and Very Memorable

Honeymoon is a holiday celebration undertaken by newly wed couples. It is the most romantic period of life. We all wish for the moments of privacy, intimacy and romance on our honeymoon holidays. It is time to know each other and indulge in romantic activities to relish joyful experience which lasts forever. An idyllic honeymoon destination is needed to spend such vacation that has everything to suit your romantic mood. Though there are plenty of romantic destinations for honeymoon celebration in India where you can take your beloved for a blissful and romantic journey, but there is something truly unique and romantic experience about honeymoon vacations in Kerala, God's Own Country.

With its unique cultural & geographical features, right & truly romantic ambiance and lots of picturesque honeymooning spots, Kerala has emerged as one of the most sought after destinations for honeymoon destinations in India. Lush greenery, picturesque hill stations, palm-fringed beautiful beaches, serene & scenic backwaters, luxury houseboat accommodation, ayurvedic resorts, historical monuments, refreshing air, delightful climate, etc all are to create perfect settings for Honeymoon in Kerala, God's Own Country. Romantic vacation in Kerala gives honeymooners a wonderful opportunity to relax in the lap nature. Enjoying holiday activities witnessing copious nature beauty, honeymooners have truly a romantic and cheery experience.

Beautiful sandy beaches fringed by swaying palm-coconut trees are very popular among honeymooners coming from different parts of the world. There are several beautiful beaches in this beautiful Indian state where you can seek for honeymooning delights. Kovalam, Varkala, Beypore, Cherai, Mararikulam, Fort Kochi, Alleppey, etc are popular beaches in the state which have emerged as romantic destinations for honeymooning vacations in Kerala, God's Own Country. Kovalam is considered as one of the finest beach resorts in the world with tremendous sightseeing opportunity and excellent accommodation facilities. Sunbathing, swimming, playing with waves, sand castle building, sunset viewing, nature walk, moonlight beach walk, etc are popular activities you will love to relish with your life partner. Indeed, beaches are key attractions of Kerala Tours and honeymoon holidays.

Besides beautiful beaches, there are many other picturesque spots where you can take your beloved for your romantic vacations. Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kollam, etc are famous backwater destinations from where you can enjoy romantic houseboat cruise over the serene & scenic backwaters of Kerala, God's Own Country. Munnar, Wayanad, Ponmudi, etc are famous hill stations in the state which are also popular among honeymooners. There are several Kerala Honeymoon Packages available in the market to choose from. So choose a right honeymoon package and make your vacation romantic and very memorable.

This article is written by Aisha Arora, professional writer and has been writing articles for long time. She writes about Kerala Tours and Kerala Honeymoon Packages.

Orlando Honeymoon Vacations

A honeymoon vacation is a unique and special period that allows newlyweds to spend quality time together after their wedding celebration. Romance and love have long been celebrated and what better way to do it than going on a honeymoon vacation. When deciding upon a perfect destination, Orlando stands out as a perfect choice.

Orlando honeymoon vacations offer newlyweds an ideal option to understand each other and discover the beauty of the place. Back in the 1970's, it was a farming town but has developed considerably and attracts a large number of American and foreign tourists. The intention of a holiday of this sort is more often than not a time by newlyweds to understand each other. These vacations provide breathing space from relatives and the stress of life, allowing for the renewal of the couple's commitment in privacy.

Without any distractions, couples are able to talk about everything that needs to be discussed in the stress-free environment. While selecting Orlando as a vacation spot, utmost importance is given to choosing suitable accommodation. This is always expected, as most honeymooners prefer staying indoors than outdoors. Apart from this newly weds need to find choices that fit their budget and are well organized.

Orlando offers honeymooners a wide choice of beaches, mountains, shopping centers, theme parks and other less frequently visited locations. Along with enjoying their honeymoon, couples may visit Discovery Cove, the cool water parks, Sea World, Universal Studios and the legendary Walt Disney World. Couples may choose to live at star rated hotels, suites, honeymoon apartments, cottages or motels. They may inquire about honeymoon packages from online tour companies or local travel agencies. It is possible to opt for a tailor-made honeymoon deal in Orlando that is aimed at providing privacy for the couples. Newlyweds should opt for advance bookings to prevent unpleasant ordeals on reaching Orlando.

Orlando Vacations provides detailed information on Orlando Vacations, Orlando Discount Vacations, Orlando Family Vacations, All Inclusive Orlando Vacations and more. Orlando Vacations is affiliated with Orlando Vacation Home Books.

Explore Top Tourist Attractions on Singapore Tours

Singapore is one of the most beautiful countries in South East Asia for holiday vacations with families, friends and dear ones. Its rich culture and traditions, man made marvels, modern art and architecture, sky-kissing building, throbbing nightlife, wide range of tourist attractions and much more. Apart from that Singapore tours is made more delightful and memorable way the world class accommodation facilities, hospitable people who never let you feel away from home and the pleasant climatic conditions. Truly enjoying vacation in Singapore is an experience of lifetime, which every visitor will treasure a lifetime experience and love to visit this country time and again with families, friends and loved ones.

Singapore Holiday packages offer wonderful opportunity for tourists to see and explore the magnetizing beauty of the county in a delightful and memorable way. Well if you are looking forward for memorable tours and travel in Singapore visit these top tourist attractions mentioned below:

Jurong Bird Park
Jurong Bird Park the largest aviary in the Pacific Asia which is home to more than 7000 birds of 600 species brought from almost all the countries of the world. The park is the perfect place for nature lovers, tourists and for those who have curiosity to know about the bird life. It is the perfect place to learn about the varied species of birds and can encounter lively to see their various astonishing steps, activities, colorful look and the sounds they make. Truly visiting Jurong Bird will be an experience which you will love to treasure and cherish forever.

Bukit Timah National Park
Located just 12 kms away from Singapore is the Bukit Timah National Park which is one of the two significant areas of primary rainforest, other being the Rio de Janeiro. It is the perfect place for hikers, nature lovers and wildlife lovers as this national park is packed with lush green surrounding rich in exotic flora and fauna. Here one can see varied species of birds and animals like butterflies, monkeys, and squirrel, Flying Lemur, Scaly Anteater, Common Tree Shrew and Plantain Squirrel. Truly you will be amazed by the rich flora and fauna of Bukit Timah National Park, which accounts the maximum number of tourists all the year round.

Sentosa Island
Fan and delights never ends at Sentosa Island. One of the most popular attractions in Singapore, Sentosa Island literally means peace and tranquility, which offer wonderful opportunity for tourists to enjoy fun-filled water sports, beach activities as well as leisure holiday. Apart from that one can also visit to the Under Water World Singapore or to the very popular Butterfly Park and Insect Kingdom which offer wonderful opportunity for tourists to get familiar with the marine world as well as varied species of small creatures and insects.

In additional to Singapore tour, it will be a sheer delight for tourists to visit The Orchard Road, Little India, China Town and East Coast Park. So book the tailor made Singapore Tour Package and explore the magnetizing beauty and charm of these favored attraction of Singapore in a delightful and memorable way. Surely enjoying holiday in Singapore will be a sheer experience which you will love to treasure and cherish forever.

Stive is an online Marketer. He loves to write articles and Blogs. He has written thousands of articles over internet. He loves to write about Singapore Tour Package and Singapore Thailand Malaysia Tour etc. For more information visit to http://www.singaporetourpackage.com.

California Vacation Packages

A tourist's paradise, California is home to the most striking environmental resources in the world. California has a series of unique geographical features that extend from north to south along nearly the entire length of the state. This glorious golden state of California stretches from foggy coastlines to dry endless deserts, lush green mountains to rolling hills of vineyards. Great locations and great weather, makes California a great place to visit. You can visit California any time of the year.

There are three main regions such as Northern California, the Central Coast, and the southern part of the State to visit. Whether you are looking for thrills and excitement, or peaceful, scenic surroundings, California has it all.

The number of visitors to the state is increasing every year. Tourism oriented business is flourishing. The major cities in California, Los Angeles and San Francisco draw millions of tourists from all over the world. Coastal towns like Monterey and Santa Barbara plus the spectacular scenic coastline of Big Sur, forests of giant redwoods, and snowcapped mountain peaks are some of the other famous destinations one must visit.

Vacation packages include fishing, wildlife viewing, adventure and eco-tourism, beach tourism, historical cultural and educational activities, winter activities, sightseeing and tours, day cruises, multi-day cruises and more.

Packages are of different types, they include winter getaway packages, rejuvenating spa packages, ultimate family fun package and so on. Numerous vacation packages are offered by hotels and travel agencies. Most hotels and airlines in California offer various packages to grab a greater share of the tourism market. The offers vary from hotel to hotel. A multitude of vacation packages are on offer by various Airlines to experience the most exotic destinations of California.

California Vacations [http://www.e-CaliforniaVacations.com] provides detailed information on California Vacations, California Vacation Rentals, California Spa Vacations, California Beach Vacations and more. California Vacations is affiliated with San Diego California Hotels.

Apartment Holiday Rent in Spanish Benalmadena, Malaga, Beat Tour Operator's Commission, Book Direct

For an exciting day, sun bathing and relaxing holiday, Benalmadena provides the tourist a luxurious apartment holiday rent Spanish in the Costa del Sol. Benalmadena is a short 19 kilometres from the Malaga Airport so in the case you are able to book a cheap flight down to Malaga you will be bathing in the sun within 15 minutes after departing from the airport.

You can beat a tour operator's commission if you book directly with the rental property owners. You may rent a beach front property Spain online if you put in a search such as 'holiday villa select', 'owners direct-Spain', 'apartment holiday rent Spanish', and so on. Obviously, if you do your booking online, you must be sure that you're transferred directly to the owners so you won't be dealing with a website agent/proprietor, tour operator, travel agent, etc. since they take all the commission and you would have to pay for that. Book directly with owners and experience luxury accommodation, but thrash those tour operators out of their commission.

You can enjoy the vacation of your life, when you choose to book your apartment holiday rent Spanish in the luxurious town of Benalmadena. This town has something for everyone in the family from horse riding and mountain biking, to hiking and fishing. The plethora of options available will allow everyone to enjoy their trip.

If you are interested in being in the heart of the action in Costa del Sol, then look no further for a beach front property in Spain's Benalmadena. Not only will you have a wide range of family activities, such as swimming, hiking and golf, but when you have had your fill of fun, you can return home to your Spanish apartments to rent to rest and rejuvenate for your next activity.

Benalmadena is a great destination for golfers who want an apartment holiday rent Spanish or a golf villa Spain rental option to take advantage of the golfing and restaurants available in town. Or if golf is not your thing, there are a great many other activities to occupy your time, from horse back riding to sunbathing which you can enjoy from your base in one of the Spanish apartments to rent.

This is an outstanding location for booking a luxury villa for rent in Spain or an apartment holiday to rent Spanish style. Those who are on holiday with their children will particularly appreciate the amusement parks, the marine centers and the recently refurbished marina area. Then, when you have had as much fun as you can possibly take you can return to stretch out and relax in your luxurious rental accommodation.

So why not a get online and contact the owners direct for Spanish apartments to rent? Then all you need do is to book a cheap flight to Malaga. As far as getting to your apartment holiday rent Spanish, you are spoilt for choice. There are cheap buses from the Airport that can transport you to your luxury villa for rent in Spain, or you can organise the hire of a car at Malaga airport. Whichever way you get to your destination your beach front property in Spain will give you an ideal base from which to enjoy the activities and attractions Benalmadena has to offer.

You will actually save a lot of money if you book the reservations for your apartment holiday rent Spanish directly with the owner instead of using a travel agency. The commission that they charge is not worth the few phone calls and e-mails that need to be exchanged to set up an amazing vacation yourself.

Costa del Sol and in particular Benalmadena is the ultimate place to book an apartment holiday rent Spanish holiday. Tourists tend to fly to Malaga from where it takes less than 25 minutes get to their accommodation. Spanish apartments to rent in Benalmadena are incredibly fashionable so do book early. A beach front property Spain is best booked direct with the owners. Clive Long, the author, is a Director of http://www.holiday-villa-select.com, a website offering cost effective holiday villa rentals in Spain booked direct with owners, who advertise their holiday villas and apartments on this website with no commission charged.

Bahamas Golf Vacations

The Commonwealth of The Bahamas is an independent nation in the West Indies. The most commonly used language here is English. An archipelago of 700 islands and cays (which are small islands) make up the Bahamas. Geographically speaking the Bahamas is located in the Atlantic Ocean, east of Florida in the United States, north of Cuba and the Caribbean. They are an ideal weekend getaway or an excellent short cruise option.

Golf, which is a very leisurely sport is in sync with the whole mood of the Bahamas, represents an ideal getaway for relaxation of both the mind and the body just as golf does. As a result of the beautiful blue skies and warm weather, golfing has become a very popular sport which has found its ideal location in the consistent sun of The Bahamas. Nassau which is one of the very popular islands of the Bahamas averages seven hours of completely sunny skies per day. As it seldom rains in this part of the world even during the rainy season, it is a perfect place to enjoy long hours of golf.

Both nine- and eighteen-hole golf courses abound and the right course for each handicap can be found very easily throughout the island.

The Bahamas has some of the world's most beautiful and challenging golf courses, and also boasts of hosting many major and local tournaments. Most courses have different prices for in-season and off-season, as well as for guest and non-guests. Many courses are a part of resorts or hotels. Some of the more famous require carts and a mandatory caddy, however most offer club rentals.

Golf package vacations also include three nights in luxury one-bedroom suites, complimentary welcome drinks, coupon for complimentary poolside tropical drinks and daily continental breakfast. Round trip transportation between hotel and golf course, room tax and service charge is also often included. As a result of all the extras, these vacations are often quite expensive and tend to make a hole in the pocket.

Some of the popular golf courses which form a part of the golf vacation package are in Nassau. Other popular ones are the Paradise Island Golf Course, South Ocean Golf Course, Cable Beach Golf Course, Grand Bahamas Island, Bahamas Princess Emerald and Ruby Golf Courses, Fortune Hills Golf and Country Club and Lucaya Golf Course. Some of these provide a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean as the backdrop to the course.

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