The Ancient City: Ten Things to See and Do in Greece

The Greek nation, most known for fostering the Olympic Games, had drama, art, philosophy, and science at its core from the very beginning. Today, the same elements continue to thrive in the culture and values of the people, which is why over 15 million tourists are drawn to the country every year. When going on holiday in Greece, you’ll find that a good chunk of the important attractions are in Athens but the countryside and outlying islands offer as much satisfaction. This article presents what every discerning visitor should see and do in Greece that will make for a much fuller holiday experience.

1. Visit the Acropolis. The most recognized symbol of the Greek nation, it only makes sense for it to be the first stop on anyone’s itinerary. It’s like a courtesy call wherein you must first pay respect to the guardian before exploring his country. In the day, you’ll stand in awe of the majesty and intricacy of the Parthenon. At night, you can catch a light and sound presentation retelling the Olympus legends.

2. Visit Ancient Agora. These ruins lie in the valley below Acropolis, where Plato and Socrates taught and deliberated their philosophies some 2,500 years ago. The Temple of Hephaestos, imposing and well-preserved, stands on a low hill on the western side of the site. Some of the shrubs and trees in the area are as old as the ruins themselves.

3. Go on a helicopter sightseeing tour of Athens. You’ll be picked up at your hotel and flown low over the major spots. The tour takes around 30 minutes and flies everyday during daylight hours. The ride offers a unique view of Athens landmarks and vantage points that are a photographer’s dream so remember to keep a keen eye for photo opportunities.

4. Catch a Hellenic National League football game. Called soccer in America, football for the rest of the world, it’s a whole religion unto itself. Fans get notoriously rowdy, not hesitating to storm the field when displeased with results. The rampant tomfoolery notwithstanding, this one-of-a-kind experience can be compared to a rock concert where both performers and fans compete for your attention and sport equals passion.

5. Run in the Athens Marathon. If you find yourself in Greece in November, sign up for the Athens Marathon. This follows the same route as the Olympic marathon last year. Just ask yourself, how many people can claim they ran with the gods in Greece?

6. Volunteer for a cause. There are many organizations in need of various skills and talent to facilitate its projects in Greece. The ARCHELON Sea Turtle Protection Society, for example, monitors the natural habitat and overall welfare of sea turtles. The group sees around 400 volunteers from around the world every summer helping these creatures through their nesting period. Other opportunities are in teaching, social and medical work, carpentry and painting, or just general clerical work at several organization offices.

7. Visit the National Archaeological Museum. Included in the museum’s collection is Schliemann’s Agamemnon, so called because it is believed to be the king’s death mask dating back to the 16th century B.C. However, the Trojan War didn’t actually occur until 4 centuries later, which means the mask can’t be Agamemnon’s at all. Nonetheless, crowds keep coming to see relics from ancient civilizations in what’s known as one of the world’s greatest museums.

8. Go hiking down the Vindos Gorge. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, this gorge located in Northern Greece is the deepest canyon in world. Climbing down to the bottom, you will find plants and trees unique to the region. Although it can get really hot and humid, it gradually becomes cooler as you descend because the cliffs provide shelter from direct sunlight.

9. Hit the beaches at Crete. Long been a popular retreat to German and British citizens, Crete’s nightlife reminds you of something seen on E!’s Wild On program. With its white-washed houses and sheltered naturist beaches, guests quickly shift into holiday mode, further induced by the Mediterranean breeze that fills the island.

10. Attend the Rockwave Festival. Every summer, this 3-day music festival features bands and artists performing on three separate stages. Each stage corresponds to a musical genre: the red stage is for metal, the green stage offers rock, and the blue stage churns up dance music. After immersing yourself in history and antiquities, this event pulls you back up for some of the latest styles in musical entertainment.

So You Wanna See A Volcano?

You have done the cruise to Alaska; you have accomplished the tandem freefall skydive in Gananoque, Ontario; you have scaled the face of the Matterhorn and gone trad climbing while the other members of the climbing party were still trying to find a way down; you have considered streetluging, but found it too tame; you are now wondering: what else is there to do? The answer is surprisingly simple: visit a volcano! Actually, you do not have to be a daredevil to make a volcano your next vacation destination, and oftentimes whole families can be seen traversing the terrain in search for an unforgettable sight.


Visiting Stromboli

Stromboli is a small island belonging to Italy. It is part of the famous Aeolian Islands, a group of volcanic islands located in the warmth of the sunny Mediterranean Sea. Despite Stromboli’s still being a very active volcano, an enchanting small town has sprung up at its base, giving travelers the opportunity to stay overnight for a visit.

Guided tours to the top of Stromboli are offered to the thrill seeker while those who do not want to make the trip may wish to visit Sciara del Fuoco, located on the northwestern part of the island, where an active volcanic vent spews magma into the sea. For this adventure, too, guided tours are available.

While watching a continuous wisp of smoke emanating from the crater is not for the faint of heart, thrill seekers love this destination and will not walk away disappointed. The atmosphere surrounding a highly active volcano is unique, and this trip promises to be the adventure of a lifetime.


Visiting Santorini

Santorini is one of the Greek islands. In close proximity are the islands of Thirasia and Apronnisi, which once were a part of Santorini until a volcanic explosion in 1650 B.C.E. ripped the island apart. Today this island is a favored tourist destination.

Access to the top of the volcano may be gained via a gondola trip or a donkey ride. In addition to visiting this still moderately active volcano on Santorini, other points of interest include the famous black beaches of Kamari, a short boat ride away, and the various ongoing archaeological sites on and off Santorini.

This is a beautiful vacation spot the whole family can enjoy just as much as the active adventurer looking for a new thrill.


Visiting Halema'uma'u

Halema'uma'u, a crater located at the summit of Kilauea on Hawaii’s main island, is the supposed home of the volcano goddess Pele. Kilauea is a part of “Hawaii Volcanoes National Park”, and allows for adventurers of all varieties to enjoy an unforgettable stay. Armchair travelers and seasoned hikers alike will enjoy the numerous outlook platforms as well as the more than 150 miles of trails, many of which are wheelchair accessible.

Biking enthusiasts will be able to take in the volcanic sites via the 11-mile Crater Rim Trail; this trail leads over blackened basalt rock that rivals the lunar landscape, only to be suddenly replaced with the glistening leafs of tropical rain forest flora.

This is a beautiful adventure spot that offers a variety of non-volcano activities that adventurers of all ages will enjoy.


Visiting Shiprock Peak

Travelers who wish to avoid the sulfur fumes of active volcanoes will be heartened by a trip to Shiprock Peak, an extinct volcano located in New Mexico. Visitors will want to remember that the volcano is located on the Navajo Indian Reservation, and while it is accessible via a tribal road, permission to get closer must be obtained prior to continuing. Climbing of this mountain is not permitted.

While access beyond the base of Shiprock Peak is not permitted by law, it is an enthralling part of a tour of the Four Corners Area. In addition to the foregoing, alongside the rock is a small jeep trail, which will be a delight for the four-wheeling set.

In closing, whether you are a thrill seeking adventurer who has long left behind the ropes of mountain climbing for bigger and better thrills, or a seasoned armchair traveler who has been around the world and would like to see more, volcano travel is an exciting travel opportunity for the whole family!

The Perfect Spa Getaway: 5 Places To Go

If you are looking for a vacation that includes all around rejuvenation, you know that there is only one place: the spa. Yet, not all spas, or all travelers, are created equal, but you are bound to find the perfect spa getaway, no matter what your traveling needs may be.

1. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Is this the year where you are vacationing with the little ones? Think you will have to sacrifice your rest and relaxation in favor of entertaining the children? Think again!

Disney's flagship Hotel, the Grand Floridian in Lake Buena Vista, Florida offers in-room child care and a variety of child centered activities that will keep the younger set happily occupied while you indulge yourself in some well deserved rejuvenation.

The spa offers Swedish and sports massages, hydrotherapy, mineral soaks,
Reflexology, as well as a fitness evaluation and body-composition analysis. Not only do they offer you a private treatment room but they also offer health and fitness services. You can enjoy this treatment under the supervision of a personal trainer.


2. The Aveda Spa at Seattle's Alexis Hotel

Couples seeking to get away from it all and reconnect will enjoy the complimentary champagne and chocolate treat that await their arrival at the Alexis Hotel in Seattle, Washington. This hotel also houses the well-known Aveda Spa.

The spa offers a variety of treatments, such as the Total Body Elixir Treatment for around $75, a Total Body Massage beginning at $45, and the exclusive Himalayan Rejuvenation Body Treatment, which combines the use of herbal treatments with aromatherapy to allow its clients to attain a renewal of mind, soul, and body. This treatment is available for about $125. Purchase some skin care products before leaving the spa to continue your special treatment once you return home.


3. Marriott's Wentworth by the Sea at New Castle

Couples who wish to leave behind the hustle and bustle will love the serenity and breathtaking beauty of Marriott's Wentworth by the Sea in New Castle, New Hampshire which offers a number of spa packages.

Wentworth's spa entices its guests to prepare themselves to be pampered with complimentary beverages in its relaxation room. Offering a wide variety of facial treatments, including the French Ogenage Facial, Paraffin hand treatments, and The Royal Gentleman's Facial, guests are sure to find just the right treatment.

Massages that incorporate fragrant essential oils, warm stones, or even Reiki, await the guests, while expecting mothers will be thrilled to experience the maternity massage that will leave them safely relaxed.

This 8,500 square foot spa offers body scrubs, body wraps, foot baths, and plunge pools. Children between the ages of 12 and 18 can also enjoy the "good start" facial for kids.

4. Grand Wailea Resort Hotel & Spa on Maui

If Hawaii is more to your liking, the Spa Grande at the Grand Wailea Resort Hotel & Spa in Maui, Hawaii will take your breath away. Boasting a 50,000 square foot facility, the spa is famous for its Termй Wailea Hydrotherapy. Offering all the benefits of the multifaceted art of balneotherapy, guests may choose to indulge in one of five aromatic baths, opt for an invigorating Swiss Jet Shower, or use a Redwood Sauna.

This famous spa is among the top ten spas in the U.S. providing consultants and personal trainers for your benefit. The Spa Grande offers a Japenses Furo bath, a roman jacuzzi tub, and a cold plunge pool. You are sure to recieve the best treatment available when you choose this Hawaiian spa.

For those in serious need of relaxation and rejuvenation, the Spa Grande presents its guests with hydrotherapy, a Sandalwood Serenity Wrap, a Romantic Hawaiian Specialty Bath for two which can be followed up with a Side-by-Side Duo Massage. The price tag for this truly luxurious treatment around $500.


5. Barbados's Sandy Lane Resort

For the spa getaway of a lifetime, the Sandy Lane Resort on St. James, Barbados is the clear first choice. This gem is located in the West Indies and is perfectly attuned to its discerning guests' needs.

Offering the signature Dr. Hauschka Classic Treatment for skin revitalization, guests enjoy two hours of first class pampering for only $220. Those who seek to relax in a big way will love the six hour spa experience which includes a water massage, a hydrotherapy bath followed by a full body massage, an aromatherapy facial, deep relaxation exercises, and finally holistic manicures and pedicures. It does not get any more perfect than that!

Vacation In 4 Hours: How To Getaway In Your Hometown

Summer vacation has come to an end and you are basking in the afterglow of the island hopping trip you and your family have taken. Perhaps you and your better half have spent a wonderful weekend vacation at a spa, and you were even able to squeeze in a round of golf or a trip to the local shopping outlet. Unfortunately, it is now time to get back to the realities of work, school, chores, and the other little things that make everyday-life exhausting. It is no surprise that you feel as though you are in desperate need of another vacation at the end of the first week. Alas--this vacation is a full 365 days away…or is it?

The Hometown Getaway

Who says that the only remedy for the hustle and bustle of life is a full-fledged vacation? On the contrary, your hometown is full of amazing sights and sounds that you, with a bit of creativity and know-how, can turn into a magical getaway, without crossing the city limits!

The Hometown Jungle Expedition

While your hometown may not be a tropical rainforest habitat, it is bound to host a large number of city and also municipal parks. Some of these parks will even offer nature walks! Check out the phonebook for a listing under “nature center” and you may be well on your way to a hometown jungle expedition.

If you are planning this trip with your children, this is a wonderful opportunity to incorporate some hands-on learning experiences. Have a backpack for each member of the expedition, complete with binoculars, paper, pencils, collection jar, and magnifying glass. Encourage the children to “spy” flora or fauna before you do, and you will be well on your way to having a relaxing afternoon at the park. If you remember to pack a picnic lunch, you will be able to spend most of the day in the “wild.”

The Hometown Fishing Trip

Granted, your hometown probably does not sport lakes as rich in trout as Colorado’s Lake John, but looking on the bright side, it won’t take you six hours of bumpy roads to get there either. Contact your local wildlife and game department for fishing reports pertaining to your area.

If you are fortunate enough to live close to the ocean, you will be able to enjoy a leisurely fishing trip to the local pier, followed by a relaxing dinner. If you live in a city that has several lakes within a short driving distance, you will be able to choose from any of these locations to cast a pole into the waters.

This may even be the perfect time to take out the RV for a last late summer or early fall weekend trip before storing it for the winter! Taking your family to a local RV park can be a real treat. This takes off the stress of packing for a long distance trip since you will be camping right around the corner.

The Hometown Gourmet Extravaganza

Unless you live in Las Vegas, your hometown getaway will probably not include a trip to the Mandalay Bay’s famous buffet, but this is no reason to stop you from having a gourmet experience within city limits! If you budget wisely, you will be able to have breakfast at the local hot spot, a cup of coffee or tea a little way down the plaza, complete with the possibility of soaking in the morning rays while leisurely reading the paper. If you’re up to it, try a different restaurant for lunch and dinner.

There are several family restaurants that offer entertainment as well as fine dining. The Elephant Bar offers a refreshing dйcor, with a safari environment. Or enter through a cave shaped aquarium to the jungle themed restaurant known as the Rainforest Cafй. While you’re eating enjoy the swinging monkeys, active volcanoes, and the dimming lights while thunder roars overhead. Children will especially enjoy the Rainforest Shop where they can purchase souvenirs.

The trick to a successful hometown gourmet getaway is to choose restaurants you do not usually visit. This adds a touch of adventure, and you may quite possibly discover your new favorite hangout!

Hopefully you are inspired to look to your hometown for a wonderful getaway opportunity. Get to know your surroundings! Who knows, when looking at your hometown through the eyes of a tourist, you may discover sights and sounds so enticing that next year you decide to vacation at home, at the perfect hometown getaway within four hours of your front door!

A Whole New World: Things to see and do in Disney World

Going on vacation to Disney World does not have to be terribly expensive if the proper research and planning is done. There is a whole new world of things to do at Disney that are totally free. So before you make a reservation or commit to a resort or hotel, spend some time comparing vacation packages and weigh the pros and cons. After all, you want to make the most out of your vacation in the least expensive way.

The average vacation to Disney World is five to seven days. This is actually as much time it takes to see everything. Whether you are on your honeymoon or taking the kids to a whole new world, make the most out of Disney World and make it a trip to remember. But you don’t have to go broke while creating these memories. Take for instance all the free things you can do in and around Disney World that won’t even require park admission.

Downtown Disney has wonderful interactive exhibits such as the Lego Imagination Center, laden with some eye-catching Lego sculptures and a 3,000-square-foot outdoor play area filled with thousands of Lego blocks to play with. You don’t have to be a child to have fun with Lego’s, be creative and splurge.

The Interactive Fountains are amazing and fun and will make a great back ground for your vacation pictures. Jump in, splash around and make it a Kodak moment for your keepsakes. Check out the free magic shows at the Magic Masters. You can learn a few magic tricks to take home with you.

Pleasure Island is totally free during the evening hours. You can roam and revel in the shops and restaurants while you enjoy the entertainment and fireworks display. Admission is only required if you choose to go into one of the many night clubs on Pleasure Island, that is unless you have a pass, then entrance is free.

The Disney Boardwalk offers a nice variety of freebies as well. If you are lodging in a Disney resort or hotel, you can use Disney’s transportation to get to the boardwalk. If you choose to drive to the Boardwalk, you can get a free 3-hour parking permit from the lot attendant.

Have fun strolling down the Boardwalk and enjoy the street performers. From jugglers to jazz musicians, take in the atmosphere and enjoy. For dancing and live bands with no cover charge, stop by the Atlantic Dance Hall.

Just being a Guest at a Disney resort offers an array of free activities. You can choose from multiple children’s activities to swimming to free Disney transportation. Stop by the resort shops to see what clearance items are available as souvenirs.

Resort Guests or multi-pass holders are eligible to ride the Monorail free of charge. The Monorail is a favorite of Disney Guests, offering a spectacular tour of many of the parks inside Disney. Also as a resort Guest you can take advantage of the nature trails and walkways.

Enjoy cruises from Port Orleans along the Sassagoula River to Downtown Disney and back. While you’re in Port Orleans be sure to visit the Butterfly Garden located behind Acadian House.

You can enjoy a romantic cruise of Crescent Lake and visit Epcot, the Yacht and Beach Club, Swan and Dolphin, and MGM along the way. While you’re enjoying the open water you can take the boat that visits the Magic Kingdom, Contemporary, Wilderness Lodge, Ft. Wilderness, the Polynesian, and Grand Floridian. At night you can watch for the magnificent Electric Water Pageant as it floats around the lake stopping at each of the resorts.

While Ft. Wilderness is open to all Walt Disney World resort guests, it would be a nice way to end a night by stopping in for roasting marshmallows on a campfire and a movie shown on a large outdoor screen. This is held every evening, near the Meadow Trading Post. The evening starts with a sing-a-long song and marshmallow roast. You can purchase food there or bring your own. Disney characters will be there to meet the guests, to sign autographs, and pose for pictures. There is seating available or you can bring along a blanket to lay on and relax while enjoying the entertainment under the stars.

Take advantage of everything Disney World has to offer and enjoy!

Kissimmee: Ten Attractions that AREN’T Disney World

Florida is one of the most popular states to vacation in due to the fact that Florida has the most popular vacation attractions. Disney World, Universal Orlando and Sea World are the most popular and sought after vacation spots, but Florida’s attractions go far beyond these. Kissimmee, Florida has multiple attractions in itself that are not related to Disney World.

Kissimmee has its own popular and family oriented attractions that entice thousands of tourists into returning each year. When planning your next visit to Florida, check out a few of these top rated attractions in Kissimmee that has had visitors boasting and eager to return.

1. SkyScapes Balloon Tours specialize in private hot air balloon rides for couples and groups. Advance reservations are required because they only schedule one flight per day. Flight amenities include a Champagne Toast, when you will learn about ballooning and how it all got started. The After Flight Celebration will include a light snack of fruit and cheese and a First Flight Certificate to commemorate your first flight. Weekends fill up fast so it’s best to reserve at least two weeks in advance.

2. Flying Tigers Restoration Warbird Museum has a fabulous collection of restored WWII planes. There are many aircrafts on display and available for flight. Some of the aircraft’s include: B-52, B-25 Mitchells, P-51 Stearmans, C-47 Dakota, a Vampire and many more. This would be a wonderful and educational experience for everyone.

3. Reptile World Serpentarium invites you into a world of creepy crawlies. Featuring a large collection of snakes from around the world and kept in their own natural environment. You can attend a venom harvest demonstration, where you can learn about the process of harvesting venom that benefits international medical research.

4. Gatorland is fun for the entire family and is located near the border of Kissimmee and Orlando. Come visit Alligator Island and observe the alligators as they live and nest in a natural environment on this 110 acre theme park and wildlife preserve. Gatorland is also home to several crocodiles, flamingos and a variety of other animals as well. Come enjoy the train ride, petting zoo, nature walk, shows and so much more!

5. Old Town is home of the largest weekly car cruises with over 300 classic cars. Old Town is a great place to visit for shopping at 75 specialty stores, taking on 18 thrilling ride and dining at 8 delicious restaurants. Old Town has had visitors raving about their phenomenal experiences and eager to come back.

6. Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament where you can experience life as it was in the 11th Century. Enjoy feasting on a hearty dinner that is served to you by a wench, as you watch a Princess profess her love for her Knight and a betrayal is unveiled as the King addresses his audience. During intermission you will see an outstanding performance of horse tricks and falcon show.

7. Arabian Nights, the most honored dinner attraction in the world. You are invited to a wedding of a Prince and a Princess. Come into the Palace of Horses and meet your humble servant that will cater to your every desire. Enjoy a bountiful meal as you watch the story unfold as the wedding is threatened by an uninvited guess. The show is filled with many surprises and full of majestic costumed horses and riders.

8. Fun ‘N Wheels Fun Park provides the best value for go-cart racing and arcade fans of all ages. There is a snack bar loaded with food and beverages. Best of all the admission is always free.

9. Water Mania is a water park full of fun for the whole family. Attractions include swimming, rafting and golf. This water park is great for the younger children in your family.

10. Green Meadows Petting Farm is a fantastic place to take the kids for a two hour guided tour through the farm of over 300 animals. Milk a cow, ride a pony or go on a hay ride. Expect plenty of fun and education for all ages.

All these attractions are suitable for families and are deemed very affordable. You can always make the most out of a vacation in Florida without going to Disney World. Kissimmee is truly a wonderful place to be all year round.

Call of the Wild: Best Safari Vacations

Tanzania. Deep into the heart of Africa, lies the great plains of the Serengeti, rolling into the distance as far as the eye can see. This is where herds of animals run free in an untamed wilderness and predators hunt for their prey. Serengeti comes from the Masai word “Siringit” meaning “the place where the land runs on forever.” The flat grassy plains which make up about a third of the park along with the savannahs, ensure that the area is jam-packed full with plains game.

The Serengeti is well known for the wildebeest migration. Every year two million animals move clockwise around this 14,763 sq km ecosystem in search of grazing and water, followed closely by predators.

Spend your days and nights among the lions, elephants, cheetahs, impala, hyena and warthogs in a land abundant with wildlife. Sit besides a campfire, under an African sky lit brightly with millions of stars. Experience Africa, a world left unchanged by time. Explore the exotic, historic and most beautiful places in world. Enjoy astounding sunsets, mystifying landscapes and the hospitable, open-hearted people.

Come to Kenya and begin your own great adventure. Travel as an observer or become an active participant with boundless opportunities to observe natural wonders and exotic wildlife. Explore celebrated archaeological sites and important antiquities and enjoy serene waterways and magnificent architecture.

Kenya has been described as having everything that is beautiful in Africa, from the scenic immensity of the rolling savannas to the desert regions of the north, the glaciated peaks of Mount Kenya to the white coral beaches and the blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Special holidays of all kinds are also catered for- from Camel Safaris in Samburu land, through walking safaris for ornithologists, to mountaineering on snow-capped Mt. Kenya; and from golfing to big game fishing.

Visit the Maasai Mara, widely recognized as the finest reserve in the country, where thousands of Zebra and Wildebeest migrate to during the months of July and August, thus providing an endless banquet for the larger predators. Maasai Mara is an unforgettable spectacle for visitors.
Throughout the country, distinctive environments are home to diverse ethnic groups and an equally broad range of wildlife. In the North, home of the Samburu people, the waters attract a plentiful array of wildlife.

Kenya’s coast offers tantalizing attractions. Lamu Island offers white sand beaches with archaeological sites that open a window on pre-colonial African history. While Malindi provides plenty of fishing, surfing and snorkeling.

Going on Safari doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to rough it under canvas tents, you can choose from hotels, game lodges, tree hotels, and self-catering chalets in the most dramatic surroundings. All of these selections also offer amenities such as rest rooms, clean beds and fine dining. Fast modern roads link one natural wonder to another. Most parks and reserves are easily accessible for big game viewing. Enjoy a cosmopolitan meal and Kenyan beers and wines, which have competed with the worlds best in winning gold medals for excellence.

Transportation is available for hire, cars, motor coaches and luxury minibuses, from scheduled air services with the most sophisticated charter network outside of North America. One of the worlds most romantic train journeys runs between Nairobi and Mombasa. On arrival and departure, visitors are welcome to avail themselves of the World of Kenya large duty-free shops at the international airports. There are regular daily flights from Mombasa and Nairobi to most European capitals, with onward connections to other parts of the world. Kenya overwhelms all who visit her. A holiday spent in Kenya is one of the most rewarding travel experiences of a lifetime.

East Africa is a great destination all year round. Each season has its advantages and each area has its best moments. If you have already decided to go on a safari, visit a travel agent specializing in safari vacations to plan an itinerary that will allow you to get the most out of your trip. You can benefit by having a travel agent custom design you vacation and find you the best deals on airfare, hotel accommodations and transportation, tour guides and more. Most importantly, you will have the peace of mind that your vacation will be planned out most efficiently and tailored to your needs.