Tuesday

The Top 10 Must See Cities in the World - And an Extra Bonus For You

Don't take a vacation without reading this To The End! Some cities are just so amazing you simply have to see them at some point in your life. Most are even more awesome than you could possibly imagine, as you cannot absorb the atmosphere by just reading about them - you have to be there to experience the ambiance.

Don't stress if you are thinking how in the world are you going to afford to get to all of these awesome destinations - I have a solution for you. For now - let's discover the top 10 must see cities in the world, and decide on your first destination.

London

For the best sights to see in magnificent London, there are a large number of tours you can join. If you prefer to go your own way, there are lots of tourist information centres to guide you to where you want to go.

Whichever one you decide on, here are just a few of the best sights to see in London, which you simply do not want to miss: Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Windsor Palace and the Thames River. London is full of castles, churches and cathedrals, and because it's all so historic and majestic - it would be a trip to remember forever.

Paris

If you are going to visit Paris, you are going to want to explore some of the famous landmarks. Whether it's a state of mind, or whether it's the city itself, the romance associated with the city will leave you caught up in the atmosphere. It's a beautiful city and one which contains some places not to be missed.

Here is a list of your Paris landmarks you do not want to miss: the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and of course the Mona Lisa. Paris well and truly earns it's place in the top 10 must see cities in the world.

New York

Being a city with so much to see and so many landmarks, as well as the most important financial center of the US, New York is a must to see. While the lifestyle is very busy, you will discover world class hotels, restaurants, and museums. You could go for a walk through Central Park, take the famous "Sex and the City tour", and the New York shopping on 5th Avenue is to die for!

New York will lead you to loads of famous landmark attractions. Some of these include The Statue Of Liberty, The Empire State Building, and Times Square, which contains The Nokia Theater or the Hammerstein Ballroom if you are looking to see a concert. Another city which deserves it's place amongst the top 10 must see cities in the world.

Rome

Rome, being a very historic city, is one of the most visited cities on earth. If you are in Rome, you might as well visit the National Pasta Museum and satisfy your hunger. Other places you will want to visit are The Rostrum, which was where Mark Anthony made his famous "Friends, Romans, countrymen" speech, The Parthenon, The Dario Argento's Horror Museum, The Museum of Souls in Purgatory, The Colosseum, The famous Trevi Fountain and The International Museum of Film and Entertainment.

You will want to allow plenty of time to see all of these amazing historic landmarks. A couple more not to be missed are The Basilca, which contains the tomb of the original Pope, St Peter, and the Isola Tiberina, which is in the middle of the Tiber river and is the smallest inhabited island in the world. With all of these attractions, I somehow doubt Rome was built in a day, however it certainly belongs on the list of the top 10 must see cities in the world.

Venice

Ah - full on romance from sun-up to sunset. Picture yourself enjoying a gondola ride on one of Venice's many canals as you observe the sights of this romantic city pass by. The city is very picturesque, with boats in place of buses and canals replacing streets, and the shopping is superb in the many shopping malls.

Other attractions include The Rialto Bridge, Doges Palace, and St Marks Square, which is home to the amazing St Marks Basilica which contains a lot of history.

San Francisco

Known for it's nightlife, San Francisco holds it's own on the list of the top 10 must see cities in the world. It's a very interesting city, having a colorful history of Spanish settlers. Landmarks you will want to see while visiting this beautiful city are the Golden Gate bridge, Chinatown (dinner here sounds good) and the Fisherman's Wharf.

While in San Francisco, you simply must enjoy a cable car ride on Nobs Hill and why not include a trip to Alcatraz. Well worth a visit, don't miss this awesome city.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is on the top 10 must see cities in the world list for a reason. It is America's gambling capital. You simply have to experience the flashy, glitzy neon lights, the strobes and the casinos providing the background noise. Take a wander along The Strip, to see all of the major hotels competing with each other to be the biggest, and the best, the loudest, and the most outrageous.

After you have had enough of that atmosphere,take a tour to the Grand Canyon, or take in one of the famous shows in the evening. Las Vegas is probably to be taken in small doses, but well worth the visit.

Tokyo

A city very deserving of it's place on the top 10 must see cities in the world. Tokyo is a very clean city, and one of the first things that will occur to you is how efficiently they use public transport. Beware though, they do not speak much English, so being able to speak or read just a bit of the language would be a considerable advantage.

Tokyo also has many places you will want to see while there. These include the Wax Museum (good one for the kids), the Edo-Tokyo Museum, the Kokugikan arena where you can watch a Sumo wrestling match, the National Gardens, the Sensoji Temple, the Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, Kabuki Theater, the Ginza - which means silver mint, and of course the Orient Express. You may also like to visit Tokyo Disneyland while there, before exploring the streets lined with shops and restaurants all competing for your business.

Sydney

Sydney made the list of the top 10 must see cities in the world, as it is internationally regarded as one of the best cities in the world to visit, It is positioned on spectacular Sydney Harbour, with sensational views in all directions. There are many exciting things to dot in Sydney including climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and exploring the opera house.

How about a return trip on the Manly ferry as it cuts it's way to Circular Quay. Bondi's reknown for it's beautiful beach, lunch at Chinatown, pat the koala bears and kangaroos at Taronga Zoo, or enjoy an Australian meal at the top of the Sydney Tower's revolving restaurant with 360 degree views of the city.

Do not miss this city - to die for!

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is an award winning, world-class tourist destination full of culture, sandy beaches, and stunning skylines. The city centre is a World Heritage Site, and lies between two extinct volcanos. The Prince Street Gardens runs through the city, dividing it into the Old and New Town parts. The royal Mile, which runs on the southern side, has churches, bagpipe players, shops selling kilts, and Edinburgh Castle is at the end.

You can wander through the streets of the Port of Leith, visiting the various bars and restaurants. Or, take a cruise on the River Forth and experience the rugged terrain of the volcanic Arthur's Seat. Edinburgh made the top 10 must see cities in the world, because it has more leisure facilities and services per head of population than any other regional city in Scotland, England or Wales. There are things such as theatres, shops, beaches, restaurants, monuments, museums and galleries, and countryside which Edinburgh is famous for. A lovely city to visit.

What a tough "top 10 must see cities" list to have to pick just one city from to visit. Why not visit them all?


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

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Fantastic Road Trips in Australia

A trip to the beautiful land of Australia is something that many of us can only dream about. So if you manage to find yourself in the great land down under any time soon, you'd better be sure to do it up right. A road trip in Australia is one of the best ways to get to know the land and the incredible nature that calls it home. Driving through the outback is like nothing else that you will ever experience. However, taking the time to properly plan and manage your road trip will benefit you immensely.

If you know that you want to travel off the main roads and become part of the rugged terrain, be sure that you have a vehicle with 4X4. Many of the roads in Australia are rough and can be brutal on most vehicles. A vehicle designed to battle this type of road is an absolute necessity. If you do not have a 4X4 or do not wish to drive your own car through Australia, set up a car rental that can provide you with what you require.

If this will be your first trip to Australia and you're not sure what to expect, inquire ahead about road conditions. Take the time to make the necessary calls or check online for more information about the roads in the regions that you plan to be exploring. Being prepared always has its advantages.

It is highly recommended that you do not travel the outback alone. It can be a dangerous place at times. You can't always anticipate what kind of trouble you might run in to. Having a partner makes it a breeze to share driving and allows you to share the good times as well. Travelling in a group of two or more means more fun and safety in numbers is best.

Watch out for wildlife as you drive through Australia. The chance that you will see animals as you drive is high. The nature and wildlife that call Australia home do not pay attention to human road rules. It is up to drivers to keep an eye out for anything and everything.

Bring a good shovel with you, especially if you plan to go off of the main roads. It is very easy and common to become stuck in the mud. You may find yourself stuck. The only way to get out in most cases is to dig. You can't always tell where the ground will be soft either so coming prepared is preferable to thinking you will be alright without it.

You must have a valid driver's license in your own home town and country before you are able to drive in Australia. Keep this piece of identification on you at all times. You may be required to show it if asked. Following all of the posted speed limits and road signs will be beneficial to you. It is never a good idea to break the law, especially when travelling far from home. A road trip in Australia is a wonderful experience to be appreciated and shared. Plan ahead so your trip is as amazing at it should be.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Levi_Quinn http://EzineArticles.com/?Fantastic-Road-Trips-in-Australia&id=1641814

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Exploring England - Tips For First-Time Visitors

England is an intriguing holiday destination at any time of the year. If you have never visited, you may be surprised how divers a country it is, from the grandiose, sparsely populated hills of Northumberland to vibrant, frenetic London, from lonely moorland to chic galleries.

When to Visit
English weather has a reputation that is far worse than it deserves. Yes, it can be damp and grey; yes, it can change quickly. But it can also be sunny, bright and, at the height of summer, surprisingly balmy. The temperature is pleasant for being out and about from April until October. Summer, especially July and August, are the busiest as far as visitor numbers are concerned. There are fewer visitors during the winter and many attractions, such as stately homes and castles, are closed. City breaks, however, can be more rewarding in the winter, with plays, concerts, museum and art exhibitions.

Before You Travel
If you need a visa to enter Britain, apply early, as a delayed visa could mean that you have to cancel your trip.
Britain has been free of rabies for many years, and all import and export of animals is strictly controlled. You must not bring animals into Britain, unless they have been vaccinated and been issued with an animal health passport.
You should have travel and medical insurance for your trip. While in the country, you are covered for free emergency treatment, but all other treatment has to be paid for. (This does not apply if you are a citizen of the European Union or a country with which Britain has a reciprocal health-care arrangement)
Check with your mobile phone provider that your phone will work in Britain.
Electrical appliances in Britain use a three-pin plug, so you may need an adaptor to use any electrical items you bring with you. Electricity is supplied at 240V, 50Hz.

Getting Around

The cheapest way to get around England is by coach. National Express and Megabus are two coach companies that cover routes all across the country at reasonable rates.

Train fares vary widely, depending on the route, operator and time travelled. If you can be flexible, you can obtain good fares. Train fares can be even cheaper if you book up to 7 days in advance.

England's road network is extensive and car hire firms have offices at all major ports, airports and many large stations. And if you fancy travelling in style you can even hire a luxury limousine and chauffeur to whisk you from place to place.

Where to Stay

Britain has accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets, from swanky top-class hotels to cosy country cottages. If you're touring hotels, guest houses or Bed & Breakfasts may be just the ticket for you. But if you want to explore one area of the country in more detail, then it may prove more cost effective to rent a holiday home or cottage.

What to Do

You won't be bored in England!

With its amazing history, fine buildings, stunning countryside, long coastline and buzzing towns there's something for you to do whatever your inclination. Sightseeing, shopping, hiking, fishing, golf, cycling and boating are all popular and widely available. But England also has space for quiet contemplation and the pursuit of extreme sports. Find the closest tourist information office and see how many wonderful things to do are on offer!



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

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