Archive for the ‘Destination Tips’ Category

Shopping in Sicily By James Iozia

Tuesday, September 23rd, 2008

Opportunities for shopping in Sicily are nearly endless. From Palermo’s famous craftwork to fine petit point in Taormina and everything in between, you can easily spend days browsing unique stores in Sicily.

If you’re from the US, be aware that most of the stores in Sicily are closed daily between 1 and 4pm. They reopen after 4, but most are closed again by 8pm. This is especially true of the family owned shops. Here are a few things to consider bringing home with you.

Ceramics

When you are shopping in Sicily, you will notice a variety of ceramics to choose from. Sicily is one of the leaders in the Italian ceramics market. Important factories are located on the northern coast, between Messina and Cefalu. Colorful “folk” pieces can still be purchased at bargain prices.

Sicilian Carts

The Sicilian cart was the major form of transportation before the introduction of the automobile. The carts are completely decorated with pictures that depict the heroic adventures of the French champions. The cart craftsmen of yesterday and today were all highly skilled. Some “pieces” of the old carts can still be found in antique shops. Modern souvenir-type recreations of the carts are also available, from miniature to full-size.

Food & Wine

When you are shopping in Sicily, you can’t help but notice all of the fine cuisine and wines that are available. The nickname “God’s Kitchen” is used by many, because of the variety of fruits and vegetables that thrive in the climate. You can enjoy the food while you’re there, but it will not travel well.

Some types of cheeses can be taken home and the wine, of course, travels well. You may want to choose the wines that are unique Sicilian varieties, made from the sweet black grapes that are native to the island.

Puppets

You will notice that many of the stores in Sicily, particularly those in Palermo carry beautiful puppets called “pupi”. The families that make these marionettes have passed along the art from one generation to the next. In Palermo, you may be lucky enough to witness a craftsman working on one. If you decide to buy, remember that the pupi are large and heavy, weigh 15kg and being 80 cm high, transporting one home could be problematic.

There are many other specialty stores In Sicily, including some that carry hand made clothing and papyrus. Shopping in Sicily is a great experience, even when you’re “just looking”.

James has loved Sicily for as far back as he can remember and he returns to this island paradise every chance he gets. His grandparents came to America from this beautiful land in the early 1900’s, bringing with them all the tradition and passion that is Sicily. From the beautiful beaches and Roman architecture, to the heavenly food and romantic charm, he hopes you will come to love Sicily as much as he does. Stop by for a visit at http://www.beauty-and-romance-of-sicily.com

James Iozia - EzineArticles Expert Author

How to Stay Healthy While Traveling By Brett Thompson

Tuesday, September 23rd, 2008

With recent Swine flu cases being reported all over the world, for the first time as a flight attendant I am witnessing more and more passengers coming on board airplanes wearing facial masks hoping to limit there exposure to illness and germs.   While you can get sick at any time any place home or away, Here is some helpful advice about staying healthy while traveling.

First let me start off by assuring you jet airplanes are built with very sophisticated air-filters on-board that don’t just recycle air but filter it.  While nothing is completely fool proof in avoiding exposure to illness,  Major Airlines don’t want to lose passengers so they do monitor illness reports closely and adjust their flight schedule accordingly, to limit passenger exposure to illness.

Before you even get on an airplane it is a good idea that one exercise regularly, get enough rest and avoid stress to keep your immune system in top shape, this is the single best thing you can do to avoid becoming while traveling.  If someone sitting next to you on a plane is sick, then of course you have a chance of catching what ever they have, but realistically you have the same chance of catching an illness working in an office full of co-workers as you do on an airplane.  If your immune system is healthy from taking care of your self on a regular basis you lower your risk of becoming sick.  Washing your hands frequently and discarding a used tissue after just one use are still the best policies for not spreading illness.  Flight attendants are always washing there hands we don’t want to get sick either.

Know your facts.  The number one cause of illness while traveling is eating bad food (food poisoning)  and or coming into contact with contaminated water especially from a third world country.   Avoid this by following a simple rule if you are leery about the water:  do not eating anything with out it’s  peel or that has been washed in water and not cooked.  In simple terms stay away from salad, fresh peeled or chopped fruit and raw uncooked vegetables.   Also be wary of pastries or other foods made with egg or that has a cream filling that may have been sitting out for a long time such as those found in a European bakery or cafe especially during the hot months of summer.

When you travel to a foreign country always call your governments health hotline to find out of any illnesses you need to be aware of at your destination or any inoculations you may need for diseases such as Malaria or hepatitis.  Another suggestion  should you be traveling to a country where you do not speak the language, ask the hotel desk manger when you arrive or call your countries Embassy and ask for the phone number and location of an doctor in the area of your hotel who speaks your language.

Finally I recommend traveling with the following items in your travel bag for an extra measure of comfort.  I don’t leave home without them:

  • Pepto Bismol for diarrhea and stomach upset, (my neighbor who is a physician states this has an ingredient that helps to kill the bacteria that causes loose bowls while it slows down diarrhea).  Immodium is also always in my bag as an additional back up.
  • Alkaseltzer for an upset stomach or you ate too much, which can happen on vacation.
  • Antibiotic cream and bandages for the minor scrape or cut and blisters you may get from walking.
  • Benadryl for both outdoor allergies and or to slow down the effects of a sudden allergic reaction that could be fatal until you can get to a physician.
  • A decongestant for a cold or allergies or damp musty castles.
  • Pain reliever such as Excedrin (my favorite for headaches) or Ibuprofen, Acetophtimine or aspirin.
  • A couple of packs of Thera-Flu just in case you feel under the weather and have flu-like symptoms and need to rest or feel comforted.
  • A safe mild over the counter sleep aid such as Tylenol PM or Advil PM to help you sleep due to jet lag, sleeping in an unfamiliar setting, loud street noise or the occasional insomnia that affects each of us from time to time. That way you won’t miss out on any of the great sight seeing during the daytime.

Hopefully by following some of the advice above and a little pre-planning you will have a safe, happy and healthy travel experience!

My travel experience working as a flight attendant for a major airline helps me help you make sense of the sometimes hectic yet wonderous world of travel. My other interests visit my fashion blog http://www.thepreppycowblog.com

Brett Thompson - EzineArticles Expert Author

10 Things to Do in Bali By Sofia De Luca

Tuesday, September 23rd, 2008

The amazing choice of different activities available in Bali means that there is indeed something for everyone. Whether you want to throw your self from high altitudes, hurtle down frothing rapids, explore the wonders of the deep or just lie back and take it easy, Bali has perfected the art of keeping its guests happy. The beach is a major factor in any island holiday and Bali has coastline which offers every possible water activity including surfing some of the best waves in the world, swimming with dolphins, cruises, snorkeling, diving, sailing and parasailing.

1. Visit the temple on Lake Beratan. Breathtaking sceneries. Located in the northern part of the island, this important Hindu-Buddhist temple was founded in the 17th century and is actually built on small islands. Cool temperature always covers the area of the temple since it is located around the mountainous area at the altitude of some 1400 meters above sea level.

2. Relax in a hot spring-There are several hot springs on Bali and they are a great way to relax after a long day of surfing.

3. Pamper yourself at a spa- Bali is paradise for spa lovers and all sorts of treatments are widely available, but the Balinese lulur body scrub with herbs and spices is particularly popular.

4. Get married- Balinese wedding have been getting increasingly popular in recent years. The exotic tradition, ceremonies, music customers, and the tropical settings are very appealing. Full wedding services are widely available in Bali and there are about ten wedding chapels in Bali if you want a tropical wedding.

5. Scuba dive/Snorkel- Bali is surrounded by extensive coral reefs and has many amazing dive sites. There are a few wrecks around the islands too. If diving if not your thing, you can always snorkel.

6. Learn to surf- Bali is a surfer’s paradise with some of the best waves in the world. People flock to the beaches to hang ten. The southern coast around Kuta and Nusa Dua are the primary draws. Beginners will find the gentle waves on Kuta. You’ll find surf instructors lounging around the beach; a one hour lesson will cost you around USD $10.

7. Visit – Waterbom Park & Spa – Exciting water slide slice through 3.5 hectares of landscaped tropical parks providing hours of fun and entertainment for the young and young at heart! An oasis in the heart of Tuban and Kuta.

8. Go White Water Rafting-The Ayung river is Bali’s most spectacular and provides 27 sets of challenging and fun filled rapids set to a backdrop of wild unspoiled rainforest, towering gorges and magnificent rice paddy terraces .White Water Rafting tours in Bali are not all the same. Some rivers are situated in various parts of the island and you may be required to spend up to 5 hours on return bus trips, however the Ayung river is located only one hours drive from most tourist centers. All rivers in Bali are class II to III but may rise to class IV in the wet season (Nov-Mar).

9. Do a Bungi-Jump- Bungy jumping is something that has caught on in the last 15 years or so especially in the backpacking scene. The site is located next to the beach and the landing pool is actually in Double Six nightclub. This makes for a really cool atmosphere. You can do jumps and go to the beach, or night time jumps. AJ Hackett also does jumps from 2am-5am on Friday and Saturday nights.

10. Take a Cycle – Seeing Bali by pushbike has become very popular in recent years, and Bali may not seem like a place for a bicycle tour, with its tropical heat, heavy traffic, frequent rain showers and high mountains. However, the breeze as you ride on the level or downhill really moderates the heat, and once you’re out of the congested southern region
the traffic is relatively light. The main advantage of seeing Bali by bicycle is the quality of the experience. By bicycle you can be totally immersed in the environment, you can hear the wind rustling in the rice paddies.

Bali beckons you for your holiday of a lifetime, with many beautiful places to see, from the Rice Fields to the Volcanoes, the Rivers to the Sea. This is a vacation you won’t forget.

To learn much more about traveling to Bali, please visit Bali-Vacation Packages where you’ll find this and much more, including Seminyak Hotels

South India Tour – Shopping in South India, an Overwhelming Experience! By Sanjog KR

Tuesday, September 23rd, 2008

“Art is not a handicraft, it is the transmission of feeling the artist has experienced”. This quote by Leo Nikolaevich Tolstoy beautifully paints a colorful picture of the wonderful handicrafts of South India. The handicrafts of this region of India reflect the immortal rich cultural heritage, which have been retained beautifully by its people. The mesmerizing states of this Indian destination such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Pondicherry have their own superb share of handicrafts to offer.

Shopping is something we all like. It is a kind of therapy, which uplifts our mood. And when you are in such a culturally rich land, shopping becomes irresistible as there is so much to buy. The wonderful and high-on-quality handicrafts attract tourists from far and wide.

Shopping In Kerala
Step into the bazaars of Kerala, which are lined up with the shops selling amazing handicrafts. You can choose from a variety of shopping items such as meticulously carved wooden objects, antique jewelery, metal idols of heavenly deities especially the dancing Nataraja idol, sandalwood items, model boats like Teak Uru, Snakeboats made of Rosewood or Sandalwood, beautiful lamps like the Greel lamp(Changalavatta), the Archana lamp and the Arati Dipa, amazingly decorated wooden elephant, flower vases made of coconut shells, coir carpets, beautiful Kathakali dolls, fabrics with lace and embroidery, Kathakali masks, bamboo mat paintings and much more. Kochi and Trivandrum are the famous places for shopping in this God’s Own Country.

Shopping In Tamil Nadu
The handicrafts of Tamil Nadu might burn a hole in your pocket. High on quality and beauty, the handicrafts are truly captivating and alluring. Talking of fabulous handicrafts, the state offers beautiful Kanchipuram Silk Saree, mats, handicrafts designed out of palm leaves and palmyra fibers, exquisite metal ware especially the idol of Nataraja(the cosmic dancer) and paintings belonging to the ancient era, stone statues,beautiful jewelery, South Indian silk sarees and Khadi garments and Textiles. The best places to head for shopping are the Tamil Nadu Emporium, Khadi Gramodyog Bhawan, and Raahat Plaza, Chennai.

Shopping In Karnataka
The impressive thing about Karnataka is that its markets are always full of a variety of handicrafts. You can buy a lot of things here such as awesome silk and cotton fabrics, antiques, marvelous wooden objects with intricate carving, metal ware, pendants, baskets, sandalwood pens, stone statues, paintings, jewelery, silk sarees and paintings. You can have a great shopping experience in the cities such as Bangalore, Mysore, Shivarapatna, Kundapur, Shravanabelagola and Bidar.

Shopping In Pondicherry
Shopping is something you can’t resist when you are in a place like Pondicherry. The most interesting part of shopping here is that the handicrafts are available at cheaper rates as compared to the other states of South India. Here you can really shop till you drop! What would you like to buy? Perfumed candles, incense sticks, handmade paper, beautiful pottery, jam, pickle and leather ware, textiles in satin, twill, poplin, corduroy, oxford, cambric and much more. Aurobindo Ashram Factory and Sunday market are the hot-spots when it comes to shopping in Pondicherry.

Do you have love for shopping? Don’t miss the opportunity to buy some of the finest items from the bustling bazaars of the states of South India. The ecstasy of shopping reaches its height in South India, as there is a great variety of handicrafts available here. Take your pick!

South India Tour Packages offer mind blowing tourist attractions, which are famous the world over. Shopping is one of the most exciting attractions in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Pondicherry. Shopping in South India is an activity, which every tourist loves to indulge in. From beautiful silk saris to colorful paintings and sandalwood items, all are available in South India.

Venice’s Feast of the Redeemer By Elena Bernardi

Tuesday, September 23rd, 2008

One of the most interesting times to be in Venice is during the Festa del Redentore, or Festival of the Redeemer. While February’s Carnival celebration undoubtedly has its share of excitement, it is a tradition that has been more popular with tourists, while the Festa del Redentore, held on the third Saturday and Sunday in July, is an authentically local event that holds a place of importance for Venice’s citizens.

The festival’s participants spend the day Saturday decorating their boats or rooftop terraces, preparing for the evening’s fireworks. A temporary floating bridge is strung across the Giudecca Canal, allowing people to walk across to the Church of the Redentore. The revelers begin to gather at sunset, filling up Saint Mark’s basin with their boats, festively decorated with balloons and garlands, to dine while awaiting the nighttime display. People eagerly gather and celebrate on rooftops, on boats, on the waterfront. The fireworks begin in the late evening and last for up to an hour, filling onlookers with intense emotions from the Giudecca to the Lido, where young people gather to enjoy the fireworks from afar and carry on their own festivities throughout the night. On Sunday morning locals either attend church or the Regata del Redentore, the traditional race held along the Giudecca Canal.

The Festa del Redentore originated between 1575 and 1577, during an outbreak of the plague that devastated Venice. During this brief period a full third of the city’s population or more fell victim to the killer disease, notably Venice’s great painter Titian. The Senate, urged by the Doge Alvise Mocenigo, commissioned a majestic church dedicated to Christ the Redeemer to be built on the island of Giudecca as a plea for divine intervention. Within a year the city had become free of the plague, and the grateful citizens of Venice have celebrated the Festival of the Redeemer every year since.

Enjoy the Redentore from a private gondola! For more info visit Cultural Italy at http://www.culturalitaly.com/things-to-do/operas-concerts-events/venice/specialevents/redentore.htm

Kenya Private Safari – How to Get Maximum Value From Your Private Tour By Anne Huysman

Tuesday, September 23rd, 2008

The desire for privacy is in each one of us and taking a private safari to Kenya is one of the most satisfying travel experiences. Though travel to Kenya is often generalized under the safari brand, there is more to safari than just wildlife viewing. A private tour lets you expand your safari vision to include all the personal elements that are your signature when traveling. You have the flexibility to set your own travel time and to choose the people you want to travel with.

However it is not outright that because you have chosen a private safari over a group tour you will have a great vacation in Kenya. It boils down to candid planning with your safari operator so that all your personal requests are included in your tour. Of importance you must get a guarantee from your Kenya safari operator that once on the ground, he will not batch you up with other travelers. It beats all sense of privacy if you will join a convoy of safari buses on the same itinerary as yours.

When is a private safari absolutely necessary? Though you can take a private tour even for an ordinary Kenya travel, your special occasions such as honeymoon, birthdays, anniversaries and vacations with young children warrant privacy. Similarly if you pursue a hobby such as bird watching or photography you may benefit more from the one-on-one services of your professional safari guide when you are on a private safari.

Grant it you may not know everything about Kenya but, with so many Kenya tour operators offering private safaris, it falls on you to approach your safari operator from a position of knowledge. Do your research and be very emphatic on what you want in your Kenyan safari otherwise your operator’s “best” may not be what suits you. Be prepared that some of your wish-list may be off-the mark in what is doable within the time frame of your safari and therefore take it in good faith when your safari operator offers alternatives.

Your private safari should give you quality time in the areas that you will visit and also enough time for relaxation. Be careful not to put too many national parks in your itinerary – this will make your safari hectic and with little time for relaxation.

Which are the best national parks for private tours? Masai Mara wins the popularity content but you can get an excellent game viewing experience in any Kenyan national park. The catch is on how you and your tour operator plan depending on the number of days you have for safari. You may choose to stay North of Nairobi i.e. the Aberdares, Samburu and Laikipia or you could do the Southern national parks of Tsavo and Amboseli.

While there are various types of accommodations available on your Kenyan private safari, you maintain privacy and exclusivity if you opt for small tented camps and lodges especially those that are in private game reserves where the number of visitors is low. These are some of the best places to get personal and very professional service.

The quality of your safari guides will make or break your Kenyan private safari. The guide has to be competent in his subject, which really should be your main interests, and he should have good inter-personal skill. Have it cast in stone with your tour operator that your safari guide is exclusive for you and that he is available for maximum time and not just the morning and afternoon game drive.

What should you expect to pay for your Kenyan private tour? There is no right answer for this as safari price is a very relative term, but make your judgment based on the value items such as quality of accommodation, vehicles, professional guides and above all the reliability of the operator.

Now that you know how to plan a private safari in Kenya, hit the keyboard and plan your wildlife safari to suit you requirements.

Anne Huysman is the co-owner of Ontdek Kenya, a Wildlife Safari operator based in Kenya. With 13 yrs experience on nature themed safaris, her specialty is in guided walking tours, bird watching tours and responsible wildlife safaris away from mass tourism. For a free consultation on your Kenya private safari and for inspiring on-safari photos that give you a glimpse of the tours, please go to
=> http://www.ontdek-kenya-safaris.com/private-safari.html

Anne Huysman - EzineArticles Expert Author

Lisbon Festival – The Feast of St Anthony By Michelle Elkins

Thursday, September 18th, 2008

As diversions go, Lisbon can offer one giant distraction for those looking for a few days of pure enjoyment. Due to a phenomenal rebirth over the last two decades, Lisbon has seen much of its ancient splendor reinstated, coupled with an added subtle twist of modern styling. EU funding and a more stable government have served to give this enchanting port, as it name once meant, back its’ dignity and is why in 1994 it was named the European City of Culture. Vast development of Lisbon’s transportation and hospitality facilities to make it ready for the expo in 1998 have served it well and with its’ impressive palaces, museums, Art Nouveau architecture and tree-lined promenades it is undoubtedly a must see place to visit.

There is never a better opportunity to really get in touch with the roots of a city though then when it is celebrating and June is festival time for Portugal with the three saints’ days of Anthony, John and Peter to commemorate. As the capital, Lisbon is the perfect place to experience these festivities and with the Lisbon weather the mildest, most temperate in Europe, they are certain to unfold in the most conducive of atmospheres. The most important date of the Festos dos Santos Populares, as it is known, is June 13 on the birth date of St Anthony, although the partying starts on the 12th and goes through to the 14th.

During this time the city quite literally goes bananas as the day is declared a holiday for all. Decked out in flags and balloons, Lisbon streets burst to the seams with people partying late into the night entertained with colorful processions, fireworks and traditional dancing. There are opportunities to hear pavement performances of Lisbon´s dramatic and heart-breaking Fado music and feast on sardines, on offer all along some of the winding Lisbon streets. The sardines are thought to symbolize a moment in history when St Anthony was believed to have drawn all the fish to him during a sermon by the sea as a way to reach out to non believers.

Among the many people and animals St Anthony is patron of, he is credited with being the matchmaker saint and for bringing luck to single women looking for love. In recognition of this, many women choose to get married on this day and are known as the “brides of St Anthony”. Its’ popularity is such that the city hall hosts weddings for free on the 13th and the brides in all their elaborate refineries are paraded down the Avenue Liberdade in old-fashioned convertible cars for everyone to join in their collective happiness.

Another of the big festival customs is “St Anthony’s Bread” and dates back to AD 1263. It relates to an occasion when he was believed to have brought a child back to life who had drowned after the mother had sought him out and promised to give wheat to the poor equal to the weight of her child if it were saved. Today this has evolved into a convention whereby those attending Mass at St Anthony’s Basilica give alms in the form of little balls of dough in return for prayers.

Michelle Elkins is a regular contributor to the Lisbon Airport Guide which provides all information about Lisbon Airport, including the best rates on Lisbon Airport Car Hire.

10 Happening Tourist Attractions in Florida By Rohan Arora

Thursday, September 18th, 2008

Florida is popularly known as the Sunshine State. It is home to beautiful flora and fauna. It is famous for its beaches. But other than that one has plenty of things to see and do. Be it your honeymoon, or a holiday with your family this is the place to be. The myriad Tourist attractions in Florida are famous hot spots for all vacationers. From beaches to amusement parks one will find everything in here. Sightseeing in Florida is a true visual delight for all the vacationers. 10 Happening Tourist Attractions in Florida are listed below.

Cypress Gardens
It is located in Winter Haven, in Florida which is originally a botanical garden and famous for its water ski shows. It is now a theme park, and is very popular among kids. It is definitely among the top 10 Florida tourist attractions.

Daytona
Daytona Beach in Florida is famous for its motor sports attractions. It is well known for its Daytona 500 race. There are other motor sports exhibits as well which everyone will enjoy. It is a perfect tourist destination in Florida for all vacationers.

Busch Gardens
Busch Gardens is located in Tampa. It is a 335 acre theme park. The theme is Africa. There are many animals exhibited over there. There are very exciting rides which is a great hit with the kids. It has beautiful fountains and water rides.

Walt Disney
It is located just outside Orlando. It is a runaway hit with the children. There are many exciting rides and the cartoon characters are parading in the park, which is very popular with the kids. It includes the famous Magic Kingdom also. It definitely ranks among the top five in the 10 happening tourist attractions in Florida.

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
It is located in Delray Beach. It is a centre for Japanese art and culture. There are two Japanese museums. Many Japanese festivals are held year round. This place also has the Japanese Gardens.

Gatorland
Gatorland is located in Orlando. It is an alligator theme park. It has a wildlife preserve too. The park is 110 acres big. It is a must see for everyone.

Seaquarium
The Seaquarium is situated in the middle of the tourist hub. It is between downtown Miami and Miami Beach. It is an outdoor aquarium. One should spend at least one half day to enjoy this place thoroughly.

Everglades
Among the Florida attractions Everglades National Park is a must see place which is situated on the southern tip of Florida. It has fourteen rare and endangered species. The endangered species include the Florida panther, American Crocodile and the West Indian Manatee. A vast part of the park is only explored only by researchers. Tourists can camp at this place and go for canoeing too.

Monkey Jungle
Monkey Jungle, is a fascinating place as one visits the place one will find that they have to walk through constructed wire pathways. Outside the wires the monkeys would be scampering around. The trip will not be complete if you have not visited one of the favorite tourist attractions in Florida.

Coral Castle
Coral Castle is a unique place in Miami. This place was built by a Latvian born person named Ed Leedskalnin. It’s a long trip from downtown. It is a monument built dedicated to his lover. It is an 1100 ton coral creation.

Enjoy the Florida attractions as you tour the state, and enjoy your holiday to the fullest.

Rohan Arora is travel based writer. I like traveling & exploring new destinations. For more info on Tourist attractions in Florida
visit http://www.travour.com/tours-to-usa/tours-to-usa-states/florida-tourist-attractions.html

Rohan Arora - EzineArticles Expert Author

Best Places to Visit in New York City By Amy Nutt

Thursday, September 18th, 2008

New York City is an exciting and diverse place to visit. . There are a variety of fun places to see and experience. There many attractions that you will not see anywhere else in the world. The following is a list of New York City’s most popular and amazing places to visit:

Ellis Island: This Island is where the history of New York began. You can visit for free and enjoy the ferry ride to and from the island. The Ellis Island Immigration Museum is an astounding showcase of American history.

The Empire State Building: This building is New York’s icon. Visitors from all over the world come to New York to see the Empire State Building. There is an observation deck where you can take in the immense city.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art: The museum is one of the top art museums in the world. Popular displays include the Arts of Africa, the Oceania and the Americas permanent collection, and the Egyptian Art collection which contains more than 36,000 ancient objects.

American Museum of Natural History: A world renowned museum that features the Rose Center for Earth and Space and the Hayden Planetarium. It also includes posters, postcards, books, and other keepsakes of the museum’s remarkable art.

Guggenheim Museum: The Frank Lloyd Wright-designed structure was built as a series of spirals meant to resemble an inverted pyramidal temple. There is a valuable permanent collection devoted to works from the 19th century through the present.

Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum: This famous museum features astounding wax replications of some of the most famous historical figures.

Coney Island: Take the subway out to Coney Island, on the southernmost tip of Brooklyn. The Astroland Amusement Park is famous as both the birthplace of the rollercoaster and the hot dog, Coney Island is home to one of the last remaining wooden coasters in the U.S. called the ‘Cyclone.’

Central Park: A great place to visit if you are a history buff or nature lover. Take a free tour offered by the Central Park Conservancy. The 843-acre public area includes “View from the Past,” a glimpse at the achievements of Central Park designers Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux; “A Road Once Traveled,” a look at American Revolution and War of 1812 battles sites; and “Amble Through the Ramble,” a hike through 38-acres of woodland.

Brooklyn Bridge: The Brooklyn Bridge was the tallest structure in North America when it opened in 1883. Take a walk on the pedestrian walkway and capture a view of Manhattan from Wall Street to the Upper East Side.

The New York Stock Exchange: This is the central hub of Capitalism. The famous Wall Street is nearby.

Grand Central Station: Visitors are astounded by the exorbitant ceiling and the world’s largest example of Tiffany glass in the clock facing 42nd Street.

Times Square: The theaters of Broadway and the vast number of animated neon and LED signs have made Times Square one of New York’s iconic images. Times Square is the only neighborhood with zoning ordinances requiring building owners to display illuminated signs.

Rockefeller Center: The Rockefeller Center boasts the largest Christmas tree in the world and the famous NBC TV studio and store.

Yankee Stadium Tours: Yankee Stadium is famous for such baseball legends as Roger Clemens and Babe Ruth. Visit the dugouts, clubhouse, press box, and Monument Park.

Fifth Avenue: Famous for Christmas fashion shopping and downtown West Broadway’s upscale fashion boutiques.

A great vacation is all about relaxing and having fun, so enjoy New York City’s boundless sightseeing excursions and famous historical sights. The ‘Big Apple’ will leave you with a lifetime of memories.

Provides Disney Theme Park tickets and Las Vegas vacation packages for your next exclusive getaway. Just one of the many benefits to having an Auto club membership.

10 Exhibitions to Attend in Singapore By Catherine Gliddon

Thursday, September 18th, 2008

Singapore is one of the most vibrant cities in Asia and around the world. Though it might be a small country, its exhibitions are on a large scale. Here are some worth visiting if you’re in these particular industries.

1.Event 360-Asia – is South East Asia’s premier event for manufacturers & suppliers to showcase their technology and services tailored for the event and entertainment industry, this event will be held at the Suntec Convention Centre from the 16th – 18th July.

2. The 9th Singapore Gifts & Premiums Fair at the Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre from 22 to 24 July 2009 Singapore focuses on the latest ideas for gifts souvenirs. Products exhibited include house-ware, costume jewellery and fashion accessories specially packaged as corporate gifts.

3. The Singapore International Jewellery Show 2009 will be held at Suntec City, Singapore from 12th to 15th August 2009. No doubt, this glittering annual exhibition will exhibit diamond and fashion
accessories that will leave many with abated breath.

4. Carbon Forum Asia 2009 is a 2-day event for exhibitors and traders keen to be kept abreast on the latest developments in this industry. Commencing 22nd September 2009 at Suntec City, this trade fair is a must for industry players.

5. Homeland Security Asia – Hosted at Suntec Convention Centre from 30th September – 2nd October, this exhibition aims to bring awareness and education on homeland security, covering both the public and private sectors.

6. The International Anti Terrorism Exhibition & Conference, held every 2 years will commence on 21st October 2009 at Suntec City, Singapore. Meet exhibitors and traders to know the latest development in countering terrorism and learn about the growing needs for this much specialised industry. The exhibition ends 23rd October 2009.

7. Amusement Parks & Attractions Show – The market for the amusement and attractions industry is still going strong, and with that, comes this exhibition with both buyers and exhibitors from all over the world. This event runs from the 27th – 29th November at the Singapore Expo.

8. Enviro Asia 2009 held from 1st to 3rd December at Suntec City will bring together international exhibitors who will showcase their latest developments on environment-related issues such as water, air, recycling and pest control.

9. 10. CIA (Singapore) 2009, Asia’s best known exhibition on automation, controls, laboratory technology, etc will be held at The Singapore Expo from 1st to 4th December 2009. This 4-day exhibition will feature products and services in related industries as well.

10. ANALAB – The Asian Laboratory & Analytical Technology & Equipment Exhibition, one of the premier exhibitions for the world of biomedical sciences, opens its doors from the 1st – 4th December at Suntec Convention Centre. Expect to meet exhibitors from the Transport and storage, Process management, Laboratory Technology departments and much more.

Catherine Gliddon - EzineArticles Expert Author