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David Patullo asked:


If you are a shipping cruise buff, then you might have heard of the Norwegian Cruise Line company that has a base in Miami, Florida.  The shipping company is best known for their freestyle cruise packages.  These packages have no set times and they don’t even enforce seating arrangements or formal attire just to eat a good meal.  This is probably part of the charm of the shipping companies freestyle packages because it allows one to relax to the fullest.

In 1966, this cruise line was founded and they only had one ship to begin with.  What made them a special company at the time was that they offered low-cost cruises all the way to the Caribbean.  To this very day, the Norwegian Cruise Lines still sail to the Caribbean with many more ships available to travelers and at very fair costs as well.  They have been so successful with their year-round cruise packages that they have more branches in Alaska, all around Europe, Bermuda, and Hawaii.  This gives travelers a whole range of cruises to choose from and some fantastic prices as well!

The next time that you think you are up for a world cruise on some of the finest ships to sail the seas, check out this cruise line and you will definitely find the destination of your dreams. You’ll find that since 1966, they still offer some of the best accommodations, onboard services, facilities, and unique entertainment that you will surely enjoy  on the way to your dream destination.

Activetravel Asia asked:


AUSTRALIANS are royally spoiled when it comes to world-class coastlines. Yet still we travel, chasing sandier or sunnier shores. Here are 10 of the best beaches in Asia.

1. SAUD BEACH, PHILIPPINES

On the northwest coast of Luzon, little-known Saud Beach at Pagudpud is a 2km arc of blindingly pure sand bordered by the blue of the South China Sea. It’s like an uncluttered version of that famous Philippines shore, White Beach, on Boracay Island. Beat the developers, the hair-braiders and sarong-floggers – head to Pagudpud now.

2. KO ADANG, THAILAND

Thailand’s far south Andaman Sea coast has clusters of islands that are still off the radar for tour group invaders and full-moon ravers. The towering rock formations and crystal waters of Ko Tarutao National Marine Park, a 51-island group about 30km off the mainland, are a reminder of how islands such as Phuket, Samui and Phi Phi once were. Here you’ll find Ko Adang, a jungle island with pristine shores, empty beaches and not a beer bar in sight.

3. BENTOTA, SRI LANKA

At Bentota Beach, 60km south of Colombo, grand arcs of beach sweep north and south from a rocky promontory. The Indian Ocean massages this coast of granite headlands and uncrowded beaches that surfers and European sun-seekers discovered long ago. There is a choice of three, four and five-star resorts from which you can simultaneously contemplate Bentota’s fiery sunset and your of sundowner.

4. YALONG BAY, CHINA

At the same latitude as Hawaii, Hainan is where mainland Chinese come to get that Waikiki feeling without leaving home. While Yalong Bay, near Sanya on Hainan’s southern tip, may lack Polynesia’s heaving surf and swaying skirts, its broad white beaches are better than many in Hawaii. Fishing villages and rice farms once rimmed Yalong Bay’s 7km strand. In their place, quality resorts harvest the disposable incomes of China’s leisure class.

5. CHINA BEACH, VIETNAM

China Beach, on Vietnam’s central coast near Da Nang, is 30km long and has numerous resorts and restaurants, especially around Bai Non Nuoc. The specific section of the China Beach of Vietnam War and television series fame is known locally as Bai Tam My Khe. Here, you can see fishermen paddle out through its breaking waves in flimsy wicker coracles and then, after fishing, surf right back in again.

6. CALANGUTE, INDIA

“Christmas in Goa” was the mantra for heliotropic (and psychotropic) hippies on the 1970s “Overland Trail”. Calangute’s palm-fringed shoreline was annually invaded by some of the most upbeat and beat-up minds of their generation; today it is simply built-up. Over-development hasn’t been kind to Calangute’s little fishing hamlets, but its Arabian Sea full moons are as spellbinding as ever.

7. DUNGUN, MALAYSIA

The east coast of Malaysia is a sleeping secret. Macaque monkeys swing like tiny Tarzans through a tree canopy that borders the South China Sea. Beyond the trees, Dungun, an empty swoop of beach, is one of Malaysia’s least-exploited shores. Offshore is Tenggol Island, part of Terengganu Marine Park, where you can snorkel and scuba dive amid gin-and-tonic clear waters alive with turtles, grouper, wrasse and jacks.

8. OCCHEUTEAL, CAMBODIA

Sihanoukville (aka Kompong Som) on Cambodia’s pretty south coast is home to five fine beaches, even though the best one, Sokha, is reserved for a private hotel’s guests. Sokha’s neighbour, Occheuteal Beach, comes a close second with its long stretch of white sand lined with pine trees. Popular with Cambodians and travellers alike, Occheuteal’s far northern end has become a backpacker hangout.

9. MAE NAM, THAILAND

Ko Samui’s east coast strands are almost too well known. Head up to the north coast to snoozy Mae Nam, where the sands may be narrower, but you’re not sharing them with the crowds. The water is clear and calm, the palm trees shady. In the distance you can see a flotilla of blue-grey islands that drifts just north of Samui, including Ko Phangan and Ang Thong Marine Park, where the beaches are truly empty.

10. KENTING, TAIWAN

The semi-tropical landscape of southern Taiwan is a surprise until you remember that the island’s earlier Portuguese name, Formosa, means “beautiful”. The name still fits. Unhurried and warm, Kenting, at the rugged southernmost tip of the island, has reasonable beaches for swimming, diving and surfing, plus an 18,000-ha national park. There is ample accommodation here, the seafood is excellent and, surprisingly, you’re well inside the Tropic of Cancer.

Sunday Herald Sun

Source: http://www.news.com.au/travel/story/0,26058,22157694-27983,00.html

Related to China Beach, Vietnam

- Danang hotels & resorts: http://www.activetravelshop.com/?name=product&op=listProducts&subcat=DanangHotels

Derek Both asked:


We have recently got back from a stay at the Hilton Hotel and Beach Club in Ras al Khaimah, Dubai and would like to say that we were pleasantly surprised with our stay. We were aware that the hotel was quite far from Dubai itself but this was not a problem at all as there were various different ways of getting there. Our package holiday tour to Dubai was full of peace and relaxation so it was the perfect way to de – stress from work.

The hotel had high standards with friendly, helpful staff. The staff at the beach club were friendly and we liked the fact that they brought food and drinks over to us. The suites were furnished very nicely and had an Arabian feel to them. The rooms were also clean and the air conditioning was much appreciated as it gets extremely hot in Dubai.

There was plenty of food to choose from so we always managed to find something we like from seafood to more traditional British foods. Many people chose to go to the the Havana Bar after dinner as there was live entertainment there.

If you wanted to stay at the hotel there is a swimming pool and fitness room or if you prefer to go out the hotel has a private beach club. This was only a seven minute journey away and had a lovely private beach with lots of water-sports. There are lots of sun loungers by the pools and the beach so you don’t have to worry about lying on the very hot sand. Towels are even provided so you can leave your towel in the room.

There was plenty for us to do on our package holiday tour to Dubai in and around the hotel but venturing out further was never a problem either.

The Hilton Hotel and Beach Club was located within walking distance of the shopping malls, the local souk and a golf course so there was plenty for us to do. As well as this the hotel offers taxis that you can hire for eight hours a day which will give you a tour of the city with your own personal driver. There was a free shuttle bus to Dubai three times a week but using taxis in Dubai is cheap and easy making exploring in this stunning country so simple.

If you are looking for a relaxing time with no hassle from locals and just wish to chill in the sun, then this is the place for you. We could not have asked for a better package holiday tour to Dubai.

Revoo4u asked:


Mediterranean CruiseNatural beauty of Mediterranean Sea, romantic Greek islands and visiting ancient cities along the way have attracted many people from around the world to enjoy Mediterranean cruise as their lifetime experience. Hence, the Mediterranean cruise has the most varied type of cruise routes available. There are over 100 seaports around the Mediterranean coastline, offering numerous combinations of cruise vacation from 3-day trip to over two-week trip.   

You can expect a diversity culture experience on a Mediterranean cruise. There are over 15 countries for you to visit, including Spain, Italy, Greece, France, Portugal, Malta, Monaco, Croatia, Turkey, Ukraine, Morocco, etc. Each country has its own unique attractions, all of which you can sample as your cruise ship gracefully sails around the calm blue Mediterranean Sea.

mediterranean_cruiseThere are two major routes of Mediterranean cruise among varied routes in the Mediterranean, Eastern and Western Mediterranean cruises. On a short trip of Western Mediterranean cruise, you can depart from Civittavecchia port of Rome, Italy, then visit unique cities of Florence and Pisa in Italy, Cote d’Azur resort towns of Villefranche-Sur-Mer in France, and the world-famous Las Ramblas in Barcelona along the way before traveling onwards to Malaga, Spain. The Western Mediterranean cruise offers the wonderful coastline of Italy with the dormant volcano of Mt Vesuvius, ancient Pompeii and the stunning city of Rome. The islands of Sicily and Sardinia are also exciting places to visit on the Western Mediterranean cruise.

The Eastern Mediterranean cruise offers route to the Greek Isles visiting Piraeus (Athens) – Greece, Santorini – Greece, Mykonos – Greece, Corfu – Greece, Kusadesi (Ephesus) – Turkey, etc. In another route of the Eastern Mediterranean cruise, you can discover the spectacular Croatian coastline and its beautiful city – Dubrovnik, before diving southeastwards to sample classical Greece and its sultry islands. The island of Crete with the historic Palace of Knossos is always worth a visit.

The longer period cruise package (12 to 16-night cruise trip) usually offers both Western and Eastern Mediterranean routes and additional routes to the North African nations and the island nations of Cyprus and Malta with variation on port of calls. Some of the options include Aegean Adventure, Adriatic and Aegean Highlights, Greek Isles and Adriatic, Classical Empires, Black Sea and Turkish Treasures, etc. With so many options available, you just need to evaluate your purpose and your preferences for Mediterranean cruise you want.

Rome attractionsHistory, culture, grand cities, ancient monuments, romantic islands and spectacular views are among the attractions you will discover on Mediterranean cruise. The Mediterranean regions have witnessed the rise and fall of ancient civilization since thousands years ago. The countries in Mediterranean are rich in historical relics left over by thousands years of occupation. If you have ever wanted to have a truly unique holiday experience, take a Mediterranean cruise.

cheapflightsafrica asked:


Whether it’s the spectacular safari of Tanzania, the excitement of the World Cup in South Africa, hanging with the jet set in Marrakech or the thrill of exploring the ‘beating heart’ of the Tripoli, make sure you visit one of our recommendation in 2010

SOUTH AFRICA

This is South Africa’s year, especially if you love the beautiful game, as it plays host to the World Cup in June. From Polokwane in the north to Cape Town in the south, the nine host cities have a wealth of attractions besides the footie, where any of the eight seeded teams could carry off the cup, although tickets for outsiders Ivory Coast or Chile are also worth having, according to former German coach Jurgen Klinsman. Polokwane offers the chance to explore the Ndebele village where the women adorn themselves and their homes, Durban has the Beachfront fan park with its huge screen and one of the world’s top ten family beaches according to the latest edition of Lonely Planet’s Travel With Children, while Cape Town has Table Mountain, Robben Island and some of the finest vineyards in the Cape.

See www.cheapflightsafrica.co.uk for information on the host cities as well as the games. Get cheap flights to South Africa from UK start from around £ 499 with various airlines.

MOROCCO

Cheaper than other North African countries, Morocco offers excellent value. Marrakech, with its minarets and bazaar, is big on atmosphere, while the nearby Atlas mountains provide an insight into village life. Or follow in the footsteps of Jimi Hendrix and enjoy the more relaxed vibe of Essaouira, a fishing port on the Atlantic coast where the windy climate has made it a mecca for windsurfers and water sports fans. June is a good time to visit to catch the Gnawas Music Festival, a celebration of the music played by people in the south of the country, and the town is a haunt for local artists. If you’re Naomi Campbell or equally minted, why not check in to the Kerzner Mazagan Beach Resort 90km south of Casablanca, opened by the supermodel last year and an oasis of pampering and golf.

Get cheap flights to Marrakech from UK start from around £ 99 with various airlines.

EGYPT

Most people who think of Egypt think of antiquities, but Egypt offers much more. Certainly it is a prime location to see our great heritage from the ancient world, including Pyramids and wonderful temples, but it is also part of the Holy Land, and tours to Christian and other religious monuments are popular. Yet Egypt also offers nature and desert treks, great scuba diving and even golf, fishing and birding expeditions. One may choose to relax on the wondrous Egypt Red Sea or Sinai coasts, take in the high culture of Cairo, or even leisurely float down the Egyptian Nile on a luxurious river boat.

Looking for cheap flights to Egypt from UK? You are just few clicks away to book your flights to Egypt on http://www.cheapflightsafrica.co.uk/egypt/. Our prices start from £ 149 with various airlines.

KENYA

Kenya offers the traveller an unparalleled range of options. The incredible diversity of landscapes, cultures, wildlife and activities mean endless opportunities. With so many choices at hand, some people find the prospect of planning a trip quite daunting. It doesn’t have to be that way. In Kenya it is very easy to plan and prepare for a safari that is as individual as you are, and that satisfies your own personal needs and interests. If you are planning a trip, use this website to explore Kenya in advance, and decide where you would like to go, what you would like to see and what you would like to do.

In Kenya, you can experience a different safari every day like wildlife safari, beach safari, sport safari, adventure safari, culture safari, golf safari and many more. For more information about cheap flights to Kenya from UK, please visit www.cheapflightsafrica.co.uk. Prices start from around £ 249 with various airlines.

TANZANIA

Tanzania is one of the unique destinations on the African continent that has yet to be discovered by many. It is a land of many wonders hubbing an un-paralleled diversity of fauna and flora. Kilimanjaro, the highest permanently snow-capped free standing mountain in Africa, the exotic Islands of Zanzibar, the finest game sanctuaries of Serengeti, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, Ruaha, Selous and the Marine Park of Mafia Island are only but a few of the living examples. The scenery, topography and very friendly people harbour the growth of excellent cultural tourism beach holidays, game hunting, historical and archaeological ventures – and certainly the best wildlife photographic safaris on the continent.

Besides cultural attributes, the other tourism attractions in the country include the rich game to view in National Parks, Game Controlled Areas and  Games Reserves. For more information regarding cheap flights to Tanzania from UK visit http://www.cheapflightsafrica.co.uk/tanzania/. Prices start from around £ 249 with various airlines.

Jessica Shankar asked:


 

India enjoys a long coastline of 6000 km dotted with some of the most exquisite beaches of South Asia. These inviting beaches beckon thousands of tourists from all over the world. Thanks to these beaches and their paradisaical ambience, India is emerging as one of the top destination for theme holidays. In fact, Beach Holidays in India in combination with its culture, traditions and heritage present heady cocktail which is seen nowhere in the world. Choosing your beach destination could be a perplexing task as India is replete with hundreds of good beaches which are unique in their own right.

Goa – the beach capital of India – is dotted with numerous beaches with a host of tourist facilities and hotels around them. No wonder then, Goa is thronged by tourists all the year round. Thanks to the beautiful beaches in Goa, the state is popularly called the pearl of the east.

Based on geography, Goan beaches can be divided in two parts – Northern Goa beaches and Southern Goa beaches. While north Goa beaches like Anjuna, Calangute, Baga, Miramar and Mobor are highly commercial and thronged by large number of vacationers, the south Goa beaches like Colva, Utorda, Varca, Betalbatim and Palolem offer more calm and quiet corners to hang around on the Beach Vacations in India.

Goan beaches are perfect for hiking, swimming, sun-bathing and water sports. Anjuna beach is famous for its rave parties and shopping facilities while Calangute and Baga are known for their water sports facilities like wind surfing, snorkeling, speed boating, water skiing, parasailing and deep sea fishing. The silvery beaches of Colva and Palolem are top draw amongst the tourists for their pristine beauty. They are more or less untouched by commercial activity.

If you are looking for more quieter beaches for your beach vacations, then some beaches in Gujarat such as Diu and Karnataka such as Gokarna (situated near Goa) will offer exactly what you are in search of. Tamil Nadu’s Mamallapuram beach and Orissa’s Gopalpur are also some of the finest beaches with tiny hamlets and colonial ruins in quiet ambience.

Kerala is famous for its lush greenery and natural beauty. There are numerous beach destinations in this God’s own country: Kovalam, Varakala, Fort Kochi, Kappad, Cherai, Alleppey, Bekal, Beypore, Marai and many more. All these beaches have their own individuality and charm. No matter where you go in Kerala, you will surely experience a memorable beach holidays in India.

Kerala Beaches also offer a range of water sports and adventure sports. If adrenaline rush is your thing then catamaran sailing, speed boating and scuba diving are for you. Those who don’t want to indulge in these sports can relax and unwind on the beach having sun bath, angling or just hiking around.

Beach holidays in India will surely offer an experience of a lifetime during your visit to the country. Just make sure you make the most of your time and have fun on offer at your destination of your choice.

Biswajeet Shroff asked:


A luxurious South Africa safari is the most sought after destination for travelers worldwide. Located on the very southern trip of Africa, South Africa or the Rainbow Nation is well-known for its rich diversity in languages, cultures and religious values. Similarly, a wide variety of wildlife and plant life makes it the most happening place of the world. There are 299 species of mammals and 858 species of birds in this country. In addition, a large number of predators, snakes and plain animals make your South Africa Safari enjoyable and memorable.

Travelers seeking highly comfortable safaris look to South Africa that has many renowned National Parks, animal and bird reserves, and ranches. The Kruger National Park is the most famous of all and located in the Waterberg Mountain Region that boasts diverse wildlife in abundance. Seringa Ranch is another must-see place in that region with facilities for an unforgettable South Africa safari as well as Big Five trophy hunts. Equipped with 5 star accommodations, Seringa Ranch takes individual tastes and preferences into consideration in providing a highly customized vacation for you and your family members.

A typical South Africa Safari is not just about enjoying the wildlife and picturesque locations. A great merry-making is also on the cards with fun-filled activities like horseback riding, nature walks, pool games, shopping trips into towns, and beating of traditional African drums and bands before dinner. You can also experience great South African hospitality by staying in fully comfortable lodges and chalets that have different animal motifs, fresh linens, A/C and heating, hair dryers, mini-fridges, drinkable water, etc. Almost all service providers pay attention to your individual needs in order to make your South Africa safari a sojourn of a lifetime.

Another success factor of a South Africa safari is the professional handling of all matters related to your preferences, budget, travel style and time period by concerned service providers. Staff members having experience of organizing hundreds of safari camps in South Africa are generally engaged to look after you throughout your trip. So, you’ll have the real life viewpoint you need during your South Africa safari. You will definitely treasure pleasurable moments of the visit for the rest of your life.

If you’re looking for a captivating South African safari experience, there is no better place than Seringa Ranch which is a perfect destination for hunting, relaxation and comfort, or a stop-over while touring in South Africa. Visit http://www.seringa-safaris.com/ to satisfy your desire in a jovial fashion.

Activetravel Asia asked:


If you love cruising but would like to try a new adventure that will take you closer to the sights and sounds of incredible destinations, then small ship cruising might be right up your alley.





Float Market, Mekong river, Vietnam

Imagine seeing wildlife from just a few feet off shore instead of through binoculars hundreds of feet away. Cruise up small fjords seeing scenery that few people will ever see. Land at small villages or towns that give you a true experience with the locals.

Small ship cruising gives you a more personal experience without the crowds formed by thousands of other passengers on today’s mega-cruise ships.

Small ship cruising can take you in many different directions to exotic destinations around the world. Vietnam is becoming an intriguing destination and there is a 12-day cruise starting in Hanoi and traveling south making multiple stops such as Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, eventually ending up in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon). You could even add a land tour to the end of the cruise exploring Cambodia.

Besides, you can have a Mekong river cruise tour. This trip offers great combination of the two exotic lands and cultures. The trip starts in the dynamic city of Saigon. You will travel to Mekong Delta to experience great boat trip on the mighty river. You canl walk on village roads, visit to local houses and take ferry to cross the Mekong River. The highlight of Mekong Delta is the busy and colorful market of Cai Rang. From Mekong Delta, traveling to Phnom Penh by boat and you start journey to the majestic beauty of Angkor Wat.

For a longer adventure, pick up the cruise in Japan exploring Osaka, Kobe, Hiroshima and Nagasaki and then heading over to China stopping at Shanghai, Xiamen and Hong Kong before heading to Vietnam. Your adventure in Asia will give you an unusual and interesting vacation getting you acquainted with their centuries old customs and culture.

Travel Tip: On your next trip travel to a destination you have not been to before. You just might find a new favorite destination loaded with new sights, sounds, food and adventure.

Source: thespectrum.com

Recommendation Cruise Tours:

Family Adventure Tours in Asia: http://activetravel.asia/ata_adventure/family/

Mekong Delta and Angkor Wat Tour: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/tour.php?op=detail&tourId=62

Honeymoon Nation Expert asked:


Your wedding day should be the most happy time of your life, not the most nerve-wrangling. Organizing a wedding is a large amount of hard work and terribly time consuming. After all that tough work you need to relax on an once in a life time trip called your honeymoon. Here’s a guide to help you plan the trip of your dreams with as little stress as possible .

1. All inclusive.

If you don’t want to worry paying for meals and drinks while your on your honeymoon, an all inclusive package is a great way to go. You pay one flat price for everything to be included. This includes all your room, meals and drinks. Some resorts even include entertainment and water sports into there packages.

2. Travel Agent

Travel agents can be a life savor when planning your honeymoon. They regularly know the best places and to and things to do. They will do the analysis for you and plan everything to help you save time and cash. Ultimately you can purchase trip insurance that may secure your trip in case anything comes up ( most importantly weather ) so you don’t loose any money if something goes wrong.

3. Plan in advance

The saying is correct early birds actually do catch the worm. The earlier you plan your honeymoon the better. The explanation being is that you’ll have options. There’ll be more hotel rooms and flights available giving you first choice.

4. Research

If you choose to not employ a travel agent you need to research your destination. This could simply be done online by reading reviews. There are limitless reviews of destinations, hotels, and things to do available. It could take some effort and time but will be well worth it.

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