Future of Ancient Ethiopian city Modern Tourist Hub

HARAR, Ethiopia (AP) — For 1,000 years, this city on a hilltop has been a center of Islamic faith in the Horn of Africa, with a forbidding, four-meter wall surrounding ancient mosques and serpentine alleyways.

Now, Harar leaders are hoping it can become a center of tourism as well.

"The future of Harar is a tourist attraction," said regional president Murad Abdulhadi.

Holy City

Harar was named a UNESCO World Heritage site last year, joining some of the world’s top landmarks such as the Grand Canyon in the United States, the Great Wall of China and the Acropolis in Greece.

It is also the fourth holiest city in Islam -- behind Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem. And some consider Harar the birthplace of coffee. Its aroma wafts through the cool air of the Ethiopian highlands.

Some of Harar’s attractions defy easy explanation, such as the old man who hand-feeds some 50 hyenas every night, treating them like obedient kittens.

But the city, which lies some 400 kilometers from the capital, Addis Ababa, lacks modern amenities and suffers from a chronic water shortage. With only a handful of hotels and the nearest airport more than an hour’s drive away, moving Harar into the future is an ambitious plan.

Luring tourists

Abdulnasser Idriss, who heads Harar’s tourism department, acknowledges the city faces "a big problem" in accommodating any more than the 4,500 tourists who come here each year.

In order to speed development, the regional government has given a 10–year tax break to anyone interested in building tourist facilities. Federal officials also say they are planning to make Harar and its neighboring city, Dire Dawa, part of an advertising campaign to lure tourists from neighboring Djibouti.

Other incentives include land awards and free technical advice on construction projects, said Federal Minister of Culture and Tourism Mohamoud Dirir.

Ethiopian officials would not say how much has been invested so far, but construction is everywhere: unfinished hotels and restaurants dot the road leading into the main part of the city.

Oil baron Sheik Mohammed Alamoudi, believed to have invested more than $ 1 billion in his native country, has sent a team to Harar at the request of regional officials to investigate potential to build the city’s first luxury hotel.

"Things are coming up," said Mohamoud, the culture and tourism minister. "We are very optimistic."

The city is also planning a $34.5 million water project that will increase Harar’s available water supply more than sevenfold. Each resident in Harar now gets 20 liters of water per day.

Ancient wonders

But what Harar lacks in modern amenities it more than compensates for in ancient wonders: nearly 100 old mosques, fortress–style walls, alleyways filled with ancient homes. Harar is also the site of the former home of French poet Arthur Rimbaud, who lived there in the late 1800s. The airy, colorful house is now an art gallery showing modern photography and Ethiopian crafts.

Abdurahman Ibrahim, 38, who lived in Harar as a child but recently returned for a visit, said the city has become much more alluring to tourists.

"Everything has changed," said the Toronto, Ontario, resident.

"Most of the things for the better. The city has grown so much. The road is better. The electricity is better. The water is better."

Still, as Harar moves further into the modern world, many locals say they’re proud of the past.

"The basic thing is we want to protect this culture, to keep it as it is for the next generation," said Zeydan Bekri, a lifelong Harari who lobbied the United Nations for five years to get the UNESCO designation. Read More..

Paradise Island Harbour Resort - Tourist's Most Popular Choice in Bahamas

Paradise Island Harbour Resort is the most popular choice of tourist because of its magnificent view of Nassau Harbour, picturesque scenery, and exciting recreation for the entire family in Bahamas. Paradise Island Harbour Resort showcases the perfect waterfront location with it's overlooking the harbor and ocean inlet. Let your stress melt away amid cool ocean breezes, a private, man-made tanning beach, and a spectacular 300,000-gallon pool.


At Paradise Island Harbour Resort, you will get to experience the thrilling water activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving. We're the ideal escape for anyone seeking fun in the sun. You are steps away from Atlantis that and a hosts of boutique shops, gourmet dining, fabulous casinos, and the world's largest marine exhibit.

You can also enjoy the local attraction and activities that awaits you near Paradise Island Harbour Resort. See the wonders of underwater marine life and experience the presence of stingrays and other exotic marine life while scuba diving off Blue Lagoon Island.


See also some historical and cultura heritage of the Bahamas:

Museums: including The Bahamas Historical Society Museum, The Pompey Museum of Slavery & Emancipation, and The Roselawn Museum.
Historical Sites: including Parliament Square, Balcony House, and Queen's Staircase
Gardens: featuring the Versailles Gardens and The Retreat
Zoo: including Crystal Cay

Enjoy the water activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, and fishing. Golf with several spectacular nearby courses, including the Cable Beach Golf Course. Shopping that features dozens of popular shops and boutiques. Beaches for perfect for water sports or sunbathing.


Paradise Island Harbour Resort is located long the northern shore of New Providence Island, in the Central Bahamas. Just across the bridge and harbor from Nassau, the historic downtown capital. Minutes from world-class golf, wind surfing, scuba diving, and fishing. 30 miles from Nassau International Airport (NAS) and located within strolling distance to Atlantis on Paradise Island.

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Boracay Island: Philippine's Tropical Island Paradise

Boracay is Philippine's Tropical Island Paradise and a perfect island getaway. Boracay is world famous because of its warm blue waters, powder-fine white sand, and a palm fringed 4-kilometer beach. Boracay is also the home of the world-class dive sites.


Boracay is an enchantingly beautiful island, in Panay province. Boracay, the little island paradise, is famous for its exceptional white sand beaches and pristine crystal blue waters. The world-famous White Beach has been rated as one of the finest tropical beaches in the world and is amongst the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines.


The Tropical Island Paradise Boracay has so much to offer. There are a lot of activities in Boracay. There is a Banana Boat ride that are popular with all ages particularly children. The world reknowned beach volleyball and other beach sports that Boracay is a haven of aqua-sports enthusiasts. Boating in a trip to Boracay is made more exhilarating and relaxing by drifting around the island aboard a banca (outrigger) yachting or speed boating. Canoeing is another way to traverse the waters around the island and is a great all in the family, fun way to spend a few hours splashing about the coast. Golf in which Boracay has two championship golf courses on 131 hectares. Horse Riding Stables are located near White Beach. Jet-skiing can be done off the beaches of Bocaray and is popular. Wind Surfing Boracay has recently become famous as one of the country's prime windsurfing venues. Parasailing and fly high over the waves as you whoosh through the air being pulled along by a speeding boat far below. This is a great way to view the island and surrounding seas while enjoying yourself aloft. After sunset, the island transforms into one exciting night of dancing and partying. But don't take our word for it, Boracay is an island you have to experience yourself.


Explore the underwater world of Boracay because of its marvelous rich variety of marin life which are visible against the pure, white sand. Coral reefs still continue to thrive around the island. Diving and snorkelling gear are available at the many diving centres on the island. Among the notable ones are Calypso Diving and the Red Coral Diving School.


Boracay offers an extensive choice of cuisine that rivals many large cities in the country. There are multi-national restaurants that offer a fine diversity culinary fare - Indian, Caribbean, Japanese, French and Italian to name but a few. Superb seafood is plucked fresh from the sea and dining is reasonably priced and casual, often set in relaxed open-air restaurants dotted along the shoreline.


The world-famous island of Boracay is located in Aklan province 345 kms. South of Manila. The island is accessible by air from Manila or Cebu through two principal gateways : Caticlan airport or Kalibo airport.

Boracay is one of the most popular Island Paradise in the Philippines, but are still more. Visit http://www.etravelpilipinas.com for more beautiful beaches and tourist attraction in the Philippines. Read More..

Nassau Paradise Island Dive sites

Warm, crystal-clear waters and drop-offs close to shore make Nassau Paradise Islands a diver's dream. Mysterious blue holes and caves, historical wrecks and vibrant living reefs, soaring wall dives and thrilling shark watches, all await learning and experienced divers. From packages that include instruction, lodging, and meals to solo launches for expert divers, Nassau/Paradise Island has dives for any certified bottom-dweller.


The Lost Blue Hole
Perhaps the most unusual dive site in The Islands Of The Bahamas. This natural hole in the open ocean floor is about 100 feet across and 200 feet deep. Here you will find large schools of reef fish, such as sergeant majors, chromis, and angelfish.

Trinity Caves
These caves are a collection of shallow caves with three major openings. In 45 feet of water, the caves go in about 30 feet with the largest opening being eight feet across and four feet high. Look for large lobsters and reclusive groupers.

Piece Of Cake
This site is located at a depth of 25 feet, and you will find many caverns that you can swim through. Nurse sharks and lobsters are found at this location. Divers have a very enjoyable time looking under the ledges and in the cracks and crevices at this site.

The Miranda Wreck
Unique in its placement, this 90-foot wreck lies on its side in two sections. A good medium-depth wreck to give the diver ample time to explore and observe the rays and many open-water fish that make their home on and around the Miranda.

The Grennen Wreck
This is another of our medium-depth dives to yet another wreck. Located in 60 feet of crystal-clear water, divers will find blue tangs, yellowtail snappers, and barracudas.


Southwest Reef
This dive site has a huge, healthy expanse in 15 to 30 feet of water. This reef has beautiful fields of Blade Fire Coral, punctuated by pristine elkhorn and brain corals, providing refuge for schools of grunts along this picturesque reefscape.

Elkhorn Gardens
Great snorkeling, located just offshore of Goulding Cay.

Fancy Purple
Located on the Southwest Reef, this dive features lots of lobster and conch, where high-profile coral heads shelter a wide range of Caribbean tropicals.


Goulding Cay
Goulding Cay is a small island one mile offshore. Surrounding this cay are shallow, pristine coral reefs. Dominated by elkhorn coral, they rise so near the surface they are awash at low tide. This is also an incredible snorkeling site.

Hollywood Hole
This site is a section of Goulding Cay that offers a nice bit of sand to play in and get acclimated to scuba diving—with plenty of coral heads nearby.

Little Elvis
A large-area, shallow reef that is densely populated with elkhorn and star corals. You will also encounter schooling grunts and large grouper.

The B.J. Wreck
This is a 100-foot-long cargo freighter sitting upright in 50 feet of depth. One large open hold can be explored on this wreck. A common sight here is a huge, midnight-blue parrotfish who makes his home in the wreck.

S.S. PLP
This wreck was sunk in 1992. It's approximately 200 feet in length and sits in 100 feet of water. Expect to see larger pelagic species here, with amberjacks and pompanos seen regularly.


Fish School
An isolated coral head that attracts literally thousands of margates, French grunts and lane snappers. Schools of African pompano are frequently spotted along here. The head itself houses numerous eels. This dive is 60 feet.

Pumpkin Patch Reef
Fish watchers will be rewarded with schooling horse-eye jacks, angelfish, barracuda, parrot fish and a variety of groupers.

Porpoise Pens
High-profile coral heads shelter a wide range of Caribbean tropicals. Also nearby, the second major movie set for the feature film "Flipper."

The Shipyard
The site consists of four wrecks that sit in 90 feet of water. The Ana Lise, a 150-foot freighter lying on her port side; the 95-foot Helena C; the 90-foot Bahama Shell; and the newest one, a wooden-hull cargo ship sunk early in 1994.

The De La Salle Wreck
A 100-foot island freighter is sitting upright in 70 feet of crystal-clear water, offering great photographic opportunities. Expect to see schools of snappers, schoolmasters, and grunts in the wheelhouse.


The Fish Hotel
Home to thousands of schooling juvenile blue-striped and French grunts, yellow goatfish, and Bermuda chub. Depths on this flat, circular reef range from about 10 feet to 35 feet.

The Barracuda Shoals
The finest shallow reef in the area, with depths that never exceed 30 feet. Barracuda typifies the look of a healthy, shallow Bahamian reef. Groupers, angelfish, filefish, and schools of grunts and snappers are found throughout this reef.

The Thunderball Reef
A treat for any diver, this is one of the most-filmed reefs in the world, used during several of the James Bond movies. The outstanding feature here is the magnificent stands of elkhorn and staghorn corals. Dazzling reef fish are found on the 25-foot-deep reef. The reef starts in five feet of water, so it is excellent for snorkelers as well as divers.

Bahama Mama
This dive has a sunken "party boat" called the Bahama Mama that was sunk in January of 1995. With the addition of the wreck, an average site has now become an outstanding site. Off to the side at a coral head, you may find a large green moray. This dive is about 50 feet deep.

Tears Of Allah
Enjoy the James Bond? You'll love this dive because it features a wreck used as a movie set for the thriller "Never Say Never Again." The dive is about 40 feet.


The Cannonball Reef
Another site also filmed during many movies, this site is known for its fantastic snorkeling and shallow diving. Angelfish are in abundance here. Schools of sergeant major, rock hind, grouper, and squirrel fish, and an occasional barracuda or lobster, are found here.

The Angelfish Reef
This site contains numerous grey angels, queen angels and French angels and is shallow enough for snorkelers and divers alike. You can often find puffer fish, starfish, yellow stingrays, and conch.

The White Hole
A circular patch of sand surrounded with numerous brain coral, mountainous star coral, large flower coral, and typical fish seen on most shallow reefs.

The LTC Barge
The barge sits upright in about 20 feet of water and can be entered through the wheelhouse. A wonderful siteat which to spend an hour of bottom time observing large schools of small fish along with spectacular angelfish and butterfly fish. Superb photographic opportunities with accommodating angelfish.

Vulcan Bomber
While not a real bomber, a set created for the Bod thriller "Thunderball" resembled a large bomber. Today the thin coating has weathered away, and large curtains of gorgonians, sponges, and other growth drape from its gymlike framework. This dive is about 40 feet.

Wilaurie Wreck
An awesome night dive, this dive site is a former Bahamian mailboat now lying in a 50-foot reef area. This site is an awesome night dive. Expect to see turtles, octopi, and numerous trumpet fish.



Runway
Inshore from the wall on a small, sand-surrounded patch reef, this site features the male Caribbean reef shark—different from the females found at Shark Arena. This is a shark feeding site.

Runway Wall
This beautiful wall is located approximately 25 yards from the sand feeding area at Runway. When diving here before feeding activities, the sharks will follow you along the wall for a beautiful natural encounter. This is a wall dive and a free-swim shark dive.

Shark Arena
Located on the top of Shark Wall, this is a primary feeding site for Stuart Cove. As a result, this site typically attracts more sharks than any of their other locations. This is a 45-foot dive.

Wreck On The Wall
This site offers a great dive with an old sailboat wedged into a crevice and protruding halfway over the wall.


Shark Buoy
Dived on rare occasions when weather permits, the buoy is anchored in 6,000 feet of water and features a population of transient silky sharks. The sharks migrate in to feed on schools of jacks and other fish attracted to the chain anchoring the buoy.

Shark Wall
This site is located on a beautiful coral wall out along the Tongue of the Ocean. The sharks have come to associate divers with food and remain in the vicinity throughout, adding an edge to what is already a beautiful dive. This dive is 80 feet.

The Mahoney Wreck
A must-see for divers, this site dates back to the 1800s. As a navigational hazard it was blown apart and now lies scattered in 30 feet of water. An incredible collection of groupers, snappers, grunts, pipefish, angelfish, butterflies, eels, and invertebrates are always present on her scattered remains.

Sea Viking
This dive has a wreck sunk in 1996, the newest addition to New Providence's artificial reef program. Read More..

The Grand Canyon: One of the Greatest Natural Wonders of the World

The Grand Canyon is one of the greatest natural wonders of the world. Grand Canyon is also one of the popular tourist destination in the world. The Grand Canyon is more than a great chasm carved over millennia through the rocks of the Colorado Plateau. It is more than an awe-inspiring view. It is more than a pleasuring ground for those that explore the roads, hike the trails, or float the currents of the turbulent Colorado River. The beauty and it's amazing siez humbles us nad it's timelessness provokes a comparison to our short existence.


There are many things to see and many things to experience in the Grand Canyon. These scenic and enchanting vies can be accessible by car or vehicle. A hiking trail, known as the Rim Trail, follows the rim from Pipe Creek Vista to Hermits Rest. The section of the Rim Trail between Pipe Creek Vista and Maricopa Point is paved, and mostly wheelchair accessible. For viewing and photographing the canyon, the best light is early or late in the day. Mid-day sun tends to flatten the view and soften the colors.



The Colorado River flows along the bottom of the canyon, 5000 feet/1524 m below the rim. Because of the enormous depth of Grand Canyon, the river is visible only from certain viewpoints. Point Imperial and Cape Royal are reached via a winding scenic drive. Cape Royal provides a panorama up, down, and across the canyon. With seemingly unlimited vistas to the east and west, it is popular for both sunrise and sunset.


Most visitors make a stop at Bright Angel Point, at the southern end of the entrance road. From the parking area it is a short, easy walk to Grand Canyon Lodge and a classic view of the canyon. Grand Canyon West (located on the south side of the Colorado River) is managed by the Hualapai Tribe. The Hualapai Indian Reservation is located on the south side of the Colorado River. This land lies outside the boundary and jurisdiction of the National Park Service and is administered by the Hualapai Indian Tribe.


Grand Canyon Havasupai's allure is the blue-green waterfalls that captivate and enchant many people around the world. These waterfalls are located beyond the village and can be seen and heard as you hike down to the Campgrounds. The beautiful blue-green water cascades over three major waterfalls. The water temperature of about 70 degrees remains relatively constant throughout the year. It's high mineral content and carbonate precipitate account for the pools an natural dams.

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Maui Island Paradise - The Magic Isle Most Popular Vacation Destination Getaway

Maui is world wide known as "The Magic Isle". Maui is the second largest Island in Hawaii and has a smaller population that makes it one of the world's popular vacation destination getaway. Maui is very popular to visitors who are looking for sophisticated diversions and amenities in the small, intimate towns peppered throughout the island.


Maui is also known the Valley Isle and has been voted the best island in the world several years in a row by the readers of Travel and Leisure Magazine. Maui has many excellent, long, and palm-fringed beaches; a large, volcanic national park, more than it's share of visiting humpback whales, and plenty of stores and shops to rival it's waterfalls and valleys.

Maui’s unique vistas also make it a much anticipated destination. From beaches that have repeatedly been voted among the best in the world to the scenic heights of Haleakala Crater, a visit to “The Magic Isle” recharges the senses. But like every good magic trick, you’ll have to see it for yourself to believe it.


Maui-at-a-glance is so perfect that millions of people visit - and visit, and visit. You may have to sit in traffic to get to that placid pool or you may find your preferred whale-watching tour is booked full already. The good part about that is Maui still escapes the "wall to wall people" feeling of Waikiki (on Oahu) while providing clubs, bars, and an excellent array of performing arts choices for people who like to be entertained after the sun goes down.

Maui is blessed with a variety of picturesque landscapes. You can snorkel in Kaanapali one day and explore the summit of Haleakala the next. Spend a day driving along the legendary Hana highway then relax the next day by taking a leisurely stroll in Lahaina. There’s so much to see and do on Maui it’s best to plan ahead. Just remember to send your friends a postcard. Maui has many Historical and cultural heritage to offer that can attract attention to visitors. These historical places of interest that shouldn’t be missed. From ancient myths to its booming whaling era, Maui’s rich history will add a fascinating new dimension to your visit.


Quick Facts About Maui:

Approximately 3,000 Humpback whales visit Maui each winter.
There are 81 beaches with a combined shoreline that spans 120 miles.
Iao Needle is a 2,250-ft stone pillar that was once used as a natural altar.
Lahaina was a thriving whaling port in the mid-1800s.
The Haleakala Crater is roughly the size of the island of Manhattan.


Getting to Maui:

Kahului Airport (OGG) is the island’s main airport. There are two smaller airports on Maui as well: Kapalua Airport (JHM), on the Kaanapali side, services the major hotels and resorts, while Hana Airport (HNM) gets travelers to this isolated area. Many airlines fly direct to Maui while others include Maui as a stopover. There is also ferry service to and from Lanai and Molokai.



Staying on Maui:

Accommodation on Maui is not a problem because there are wide range of accommodations including world class resorts, luxury hotels, bed and breakfasts and rentals. Most resorts can be found in Kapalua, Kaanapali, and Lahaina on Maui’s sunny western coast or Kihei, Makena, and Wailea in South Maui.


Getting around in Maui:

You can tour around Maui by shuttle, tour bus, taxi, or public transportation. But to really experience all that Maui offers you should consider renting a car. Read More..

Discover and Explore Nature's Paradise the British virgin Islands

Discover and explore the wonders of nature paradise little secret of the British virgin Islands in which it consists of over 60 pristine Caribbean islands. The enchanted unspoiled and unexplored paradise islands are as beautiful as the people and culture. Experience the beauty and magnificent white sand beaches, turquoise waters and vibrant lifestyle. Accomodations is unmatched when you come and visit British virgin Islands.


There are 4 large main islands of the British Virgin Islands and these are Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, Jost Van Dyke and Other Islands.

Tortola is the largest island in the British Virgin Islands, Tortola offers a variety of exciting vacation possibilities. Virgin Gorda is the third largest island of the BVI, Virgin Gorda measures eight and a half square miles. Jost Van Dyke although it measures just four miles by three, with the highest point at 1,054 feet, Jost Van Dyke has fewer than 200 inhabitants, and they are widely known as a welcoming people. Anegada is the only coral island in the volcanic BVI chain, Anegada measures 11 miles by three, its highest point is just 28 feet above sea level.


Other Islands British Virgin Islands scattered in an aquamarine sea, the British Virgin Islands flank the broad Sir Francis Drake Channel, which has beguiled sailors for centuries with scalloped coves and good anchorages. There are over 60 islands in all, whose names reflect their colourful past. The other main islands are discussed in this section.

The British Virgin Islands is a picture of contrasts. There are protected anchorages in quiet palm-fringed coves with spiraling sheer rock faces that plunge to the ocean. One comes across dramatic volcanic formed mountains as well as a flat all-coral atoll. From island to island the vegetation can be dramatically different, due to rainfall, soil composition and sun exposure. Lush areas support palms and tropical fruit trees like banana, mango, and key lime along with flowering hibiscus and bougainvillea bushes. A hike up a hill may reveal varieties of cactus and wild tamarind - even a hardy frangipani plant making its way through a boulder.


The surrounding waters are deep shades of liquid blue, but on Anegada - the only coral atoll in the group, the water takes on an ethereal aquamarine shade. A varied and intriguing environment on land and on sea makes these islands appealing to divers, boaters, hikers and those desiring just to "chill" in a soft rope hammock overlooking a white sand beach.


Accomodations in the British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands offers visitors a wide range of attractive places to stay. Dotting our mountains, shores, and remote island beaches are exceptional BVI accommodations including hotels and inns, villas and cottages, resorts, guest houses and apartments. Entire islands, such as Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Necker to name a few are even available for groups large and small. Whatever you have in mind, the British Virgin Islands has a place to satisfy your wishes in the Caribbean.

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Surfers Paradise in Australia: A Paradise on the Pacific Ocean

Surfer Paradise is certainly a Paradise on the Pacific Ocean and it has many things to offer and everything you wanted you can findit here. surfer Paradise has sunshine at least 260 days a year. In Surfers Paradise you can enjoy the Beautiful, long, golden, sandy beaches. If you want to unwind with enchanting and beauty of a forest, a rainforest is nearby and for the kids, there are four major theme parks.

Surfers Paradise is situated in Queensland Australia in area named the Gold Coast. It is by no means a quiet secluded location but with endless stretches of beautiful, white sandy beach, a mild climate and a full range of accommodation to suit all budgets and loads of different restaurants and many other tourist attractions it is known as Australia's premier holiday destination.


Surfers Paradise is the jewel of Queensland's Gold Coast and one of the most popular holiday destinations in Australia. Surfers Paradise is where you'll find the perfect fusion of city and beach lifestyles set amidst a spectacular skyline and brilliant stretch of coast. Once you arrive, you'll soon feel that you've literally arrived in paradise.

Vibrant and eclectic, Surfers Paradise provides non-stop action. With an abundance of theme parks and family attractions all in easy access, you're never short of finding things to do. The trouble instead may be finding enough time to do everything.


Surfers Paradise invites exploration. Whether it's through the winding streets lined with alfresco dining restaurants or the art galleries that showcase local artists' works and Aboriginal exhibitions. There's the unending shopping options from top-end designers to outlet bargains and nighttime beachfront markets. Surfers Paradise is enticing in every way imaginable.

And when nightfall comes, Surfers bursts into action with 24-hour excitement. Bars and nightclubs start pumping with live music and dance beats, while non-stop events keep you entertained. And of course, there's the Indy Races, which jumpstarts Surfers Paradise into action every October.


Accommodation in Surfers Paradise

- Backpacker accommodation in Queensland is among the best. Enjoy modern amenities at ideally situated hostels.
- Experience genuine friendliness, a warm welcome and the comforts of home at a Bed & Breakfast.
- Camping and caravan parks offer the opportunity for you to stay in superb locations.
- Farmstay experiences are as down-to-earth as their friendly hosts and enable you to fully immerse yourself in Queensland's heritage.
- Hotels range from warm country pubs to swanky high-rises. Every convenience is available at hotels and motels to ensure your holiday spells relaxation.
- Luxurious resorts in idyllic locations, it's all at your fingertips. Choose a resort that speaks to your heart: secluded, nature-based and indulgent among others.
- Gold Coast Holiday Apartments and Units - Self contained accommodation - Choose your location


Things to See and Do At Surfers Paradise

There are plenty of amazing things to see and do around the Gold Coast. Whether you're in the mood for something relaxing, action-packed or guided, there's something to suit everyone's tastes. So come see for yourself, we're sure you'll agree too!

- Come find your perfect combination of adrenalin-pumping and recreational activities here.
- Family Holidays in the Gold Coast, QLD - Plan your family holiday at the Gold Coast with fantastic activities for the whole family.
- Shopping is a must-do on holidays and the Gold Coast has plenty of choices. From international luxury designers to local arts and crafts, you’ll find that perfect gift here.
- Alfresco dining, hinterland vineyards and internationally recognised restaurants are awaiting you.
- Come experience nature in its native habitat and be ready for a little whale-watching, wallaby spotting or dolphin feeding.
- Enjoy your holiday with tour guides eager to make your experience the best possible.


Getting Around in Surfers Paradise

Travelling around Queensland is simple, whether you’re looking for a helicopter or a relaxing train ride, you’ll find plenty of options here. See why Queensland is the perfect destination for your next driving holiday. Travel around Queensland in comfort with a coach service.

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Cancun Vacation Island Paradise in Mexico

Cancun is one of the most popular and enchanting vacation destination in Mexico. Cancun is Mexico’s largest and most frequented vacation spot. Cancun vacations offer its visitors the best of both worlds – spring breakers and thrill-seekers will love it for its all-night, all-inclusive discos; while water lovers will enjoy its stunning reefs, opulent waters and its wealth of colorful marine life.

Cancun was just a deserted, sun-drenched island off the northeast tip of the Yucatan peninsula 20 years ago but the island underwent a revamp in the 1970’s in the hopes that it would become a popular Mexico vacation destination. Now it is. It is one of the World's best paradise island that an adventure traveller wanted to go.

Cancun Island is approximately 16 miles long with the highest point above sea level being 200 feet. The State of Quintana Roo is located 550 miles south of Miami, in the South-eastern part of Mexico. Along the coastline of about 540 miles, there are numerous coral islands and a reef barrier, the second largest in the world.


Cancun Island has so much to offer to the visitors. Cancun boast its beautiful world-class beach resorts and diving spots to the world. If you are searching for calm, peaceful days to enjoy the sun and the sand, then this paradise Island is the best place for you.

Cancun lies in the Mexico State of Quintana Roo on the beautiful Yucatan Peninsula. Cancun vacations offer its visitors the best of both worlds – spring breakers and thrill-seekers will love it for its all-night, all-inclusive discos; while water lovers will enjoy its stunning reefs, opulent waters and its wealth of colorful marine life.


For those who go out more for daytime than night-time sports, Cancun, with its beaches of powdery coral sand, is the place to be. Cancun is a snorkel and scuba diving paradise, the lagoon enclosed by the -L- shape of the island, is ideal for sailing and water-skiing. Deep-sea fishing and diving are fantastic in the open sea, which stretches out in shades of light-green to turquoise from the shoreline to the violet-blue horizon.

Not only world-class beaches and dive site, Cancun has many things to offer to visitors. Re-discover Cancun's history and culture by visiting the Mayan archaeological sites of Tulum, Coba, Chichen Itza or Uxmal with. You can do island hopping by takin boat trips to the nearby islands of Isla Mujeres, Cozumel and Contoy are popular and easy to do.


Honeymoon in Cancun

Cancun is also one of the best place Honeymoonplace in the World. Many newlywed couples love to spend they honeymoon in Cancun. Sun-kissed shores lapped by gem-colored waves. Moonlight glinting on the steps of a thousand-year-old pyramid. Lilting music in the sultry air. Is it any wonder that lovers love Cancun?

Whether you’re exchanging rings on a palm-lined beach, renewing vows in a colonial courtyard, honeymooning in a sumptuous suite or rendezvousing for a unforgettable weekend in the tropics, Cancun offers couples a feast of romantic options. Here are just a few that are sure to light those love fires—and keep them burning for a long time to come.


Accommodation in Cancun

As you knowthat accommodation is very important to a traveler. But in Cancun, accommocation is not a problem. The magnificent resort city of Cancun now offers visitors over 25,000 rooms in four and five star hotels as well as all inclusive accommodations that offer package deals including food, beverage and rooms. Some hotels are Internationally recognized, but there also small family style hotels that offer first class service and accommodations.


How to get there

BY AIR
Only about 1 1/2 hours from Miami and four hours from Chicago and New York, Cancun has long been the destination of choice for travelers from around the world.Cancún International Airport is 16 kilometers (9 miles) southwest of the heart of Cancún City, 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the southernmost point of the hotel zone.

BETWEEN THE AIRPORT AND TOWN
A counter at the airport exit sells tickets for buses (called colectivos), which cost about $8. The buses are air-conditioned and sell soft drinks and beer on board. You can also take a government-subsidized cab; the driver will accept the taxi vouchers sold at stands inside or just outside the airport. Read More..

Pangkor Island Paradise, Enchanted Beauty of Malaysia

Pangkor Island, the paradise island, is one of the popular, famous and well known islands in Malaysia and also world famous paradise island. It is located approximately 90 kilometres southwest of Ipoh. Pangkor Island is an idyllic and beautiful island resort for a carefree and relaxing holiday. Its natural scenery of green hills and palm-fringed beaches of fine white sand lapped by the warm blue waters of the Straits of Malacca is truly magnificent.

Forty minutes by ferry from Lumut, the popular island resort of Pulau Pangkor (Pangkor Island) welcomes visitors with its serene golden beaches, crystalline blue waters, and cool refreshing breezes. Located about 90km south west of lpoh, it is largely inhabited by fisherfolk. They live in scattered fishing settlements along the coast especially on the eastern side, facing the town of Lumut and Teluk Batik, and their catch comprises mainly cuttlefish and anchovy. The modern facilities make it an ideal gateway. A wide range of sun and sea activities are available such as scuba diving, wind-surfing, fishing, snorkelling.


The Island paradise is offers magnificent and fabulous attraction to the tourist and visitors. Exotic flora and fauna can be found in this area. Rare orchids can be seen along jungle trek. Butterflies are tame enough to land on an outstretched palm. Colorful birds can been seen perched on the trees at the hill slopes. You may possibly catch a glimpse of monkeys swinging from the branches. Watch out for giant hornbills here. Complete your day by trekking to Pangkor Hill to observe the flora and fauna here.

One of the great places of interest in Pangkor Island is Pasir Giam beach, which faces the small island of Giam. It is only 2km north of Teluk Nipah by road. When the tide is out, you can walk through the shallow waters to the island but watch for the high tide unless you have a boat.


How to get there ...

Access by road via the North -South highway to Lumut. If travelling from the south, exit at Gopeng interchange and turn left after Pangkor/Sitiawan/Batu Gajah signboard. Upon arrival in Lumut, you can see a ferry service counter there. Parking space are available here.

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Discover Maldives Tropical Island Paradise

Sun, sand and sea, a thousand ‘Robinson Crusoe’ islands, massive lagoons with different depths and infinite shades of blue and turquoise, dazzling underwater coral gardens; a perfect natural combination for the ideal tropical holiday destination. However there is more to the Maldives than just that.


Maldives is a paradise tropical island with swaying palm trees and pure white beaches surrounded by crystalline lagoons of varying shades of blue. Indeed, it is not without reason that the Maldives has been described as ‘(the) flower of the Indies’ by Marco Polo and ‘one of the wonders of the world’ by Ibn Batuta.

Sunny, unique and unspoiled, the Maldives is an archipelago comprising 1,190 low-lying coral islands scattered across the equator, in groups of 26 naturally occurring atolls which are divided into 20 for administrative purposes. An indication of how perfect the Maldivian atoll structures are, is the fact that the word ‘atoll’ in the English Language – meaning ‘ring-shaped coral reef enclosing a lagoon’, is a borrowing from the Maldivian language ‘Dhivehi’.


The total area of 90,000 square kilometers that is Maldives consists of sparkling sun-kissed beaches, palm-fringed islands, crystalline lagoons studded with multi-coloured corals and warm, azure seas with exotic marine life – a mesmerizing mixture that remains the same throughout the year, continue to enthrall visitors from far and wide.

Maldives has many more to offer than just an exotic island ...

There is more to the Maldives than exotic, secluded island resorts that promise heavenly tranquility. Cruising vessels, diving and snorkeling, surfing, wide range of water sports, world-class spas and a rich, intriguing culture are among the many other attractions of this unique country.


Things to do in Maldives ...

The Maldives is famed for its rare underwater beauty. The profusion of psychedelic colours and the abundance and variety of life underwater have fascinated divers and snorkellers since Maldives was discovered as a diving destination. The highest level of visibility that one could expect- sometimes exceeding 50 metres - and warm temperatures throughout the year makes diving in the Maldives a delight you would want to experience over and over again. The Maldives has some of the best dive sites in the world and many visit the Maldives repeatedly for the sole purpose of diving.All resorts in the Maldives have professional dive schools with multi-lingual instructors and conduct courses for beginners as well as the advanced. Many of the resorts have excellent house reefs. Just a short swim from the beach and snorkellers too can experience the same pleasures from the surface.

In Maldives, you can cruising in cruise boats, diving, snorkeling. surfing, water sports, island hopping and seaplane tours.


Accomodation in Maldives ...

The accommodation in the resorts varies from island to island. Some resorts may provide only thatched huts while others have air-conditioned rooms with satellite television. It is common that most resorts have some diverse accommodation to offer to suit the tastes of the visitors. All rooms have bathrooms and some resorts have them without roofs to give a feel of the traditional Maldivian gifili. Some resorts even have small gardens in such open-air bathrooms.

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