Up For Anything

Living life to the Full

How to escape snow this holiday season

By Leave a Comment

There are a lot of wonderful things about the holidays. Everyone seems to be in a good mood, there are so many different events to go to, and there are always great deals at stores. The only thing I dislike about the holidays is the snow. I am not a fan of snow or cold weather, which can kind of bring my holiday spirit down. Here are a few ways to escape the cold weather this winter.

One way to escape the cold weather is to take a vacation. Head somewhere warm and sunny and just get away from it all. Hawaii has great weather year-round. Southern California and Mexico are also famous for their sunshine and comfortable climate. If you can’t travel all the way to Hawaii or Mexico, try traveling to somewhere warmer and more affordable. Much of Nevada is warm all year, and if you avoid Las Vegas, you may be able to save money on hotel expenses.

If you can’t take the time off to take a long vacation, try taking a staycation! Book a room at a local motel and plan fun, inside activities to do. Visit a nearby bookstore, shop at your local mall, or eat out at your favorite restaurant. These activities can help you stay warm and see your city in a new light. You may even find new favorite activities to do right where you live. Your staycation may even be better than a trip out of town.

Maybe you simply don’t have the time to vacation, in town or otherwise. Many of us don’t have that option, given work-life balance. You can escape the cold and be toasty warm right in your own home. Have a movie or game night at your house. Get all wrapped up in your favorite blanket and curl up on the couch. Don’t forget your favorite slippers or fuzzy socks, and the hot cocoa. Sit back, relax, and revel in the warm, comforting embrace of cozy bliss.

Whether you stay warm by staying in, traveling to warmer climates, be sure to snap some pictures and put them on your holiday cards. I get my cards from Basic Invite. I love their personalized photo Christmas card selection. Any of their cards, with your warm, cheery vibes are sure to look perfect together.  I hope you stay warm and comfy this holiday season. Happy holidays!

Unique places to visit in Cairo to make your trip a great one

By Leave a Comment

Located along the River Nile near the delta, the capital of Egypt is about 165 km from the Mediterranean Sea. The largest city in Africa was founded in 969 AD and has been ruled by the Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt, Romans, Turks, French and more over the centuries. The Great Pyramid of Giza is the city’s most famous landmark. That structure occupies an area of 53,000 square meters and is 140 meters high. The Cairo’s Egyptian Museum also houses the world’s greatest display of ancient Egyptian artifacts, many of which are from the tomb of Tutankhamen. Its rumble with history doesn’t just end here as it is home to the oldest university in the world as well as of the largest mosques. Known as the city of 1,000 minarets for its Islamic architecture, Cairo seems to breathe in the past more than the present.

If you want to get into the city, the better way is through the Cairo international airport which allows both domestic and international flights. You can even book Cheap Dubai to Cairo flights, Cape Town to Cairo flights, Oman to Cairo flights, Melbourne to Cairo flights and more from a reliable ticket booking source.

When you land here, you will surely get to witness a lot of minarets, mosques and its famous citadel. But if you want to experience something different then this is the list for you:

  • Visit Abu Simbel: Built along the axis of the sun, the temple gets flooded with sunlight twice a year on February 22 and October 22. It illuminates Rameses himself. Only the fourth statue of Ptah, the mysterious creator-god which is left in shadow. Here’s a little-known fact: UNESCO’s World Heritage Convention was created actually to preserve Abu Simbel. You might want to mark those two dates down and plan your trip around it.
  • Visit the Lost City of Heracleion: Found in the Abu Qir Bay off the coast of Egypt, the underwater ruins had 64 ships, 700 anchors, and a treasure trove of gold coins, statues standing at 16 feet and a massive temple to the god Amun-Gereb. All these give a peek into what was a great port that controlled all the trade into Egypt city 2300 years ago. But no one is really sure how it ended up underwater. If you love architecture and lore of the past then this is the place to go to.
  • Ponder At The City Of The Dead: The cemetery Zawiyyet al-Mayyiteen is known as such since it is considered to be one of the world’s largest cemeteries. This huge necropolis is comprised of innumerable white conical domes which appear very similar to waves in the ocean. Each of the mausolea is topped with a dome. The place is just stunning at sunrise or sunset and it is highly recommended that you visit them. But remember that it is a working cemetery and so the proper decorum should be observed.

Cairo is a city which seems to be just progressively lost in various eras of time. But its beauty actually lies in that very fact. Visiting it feels like stepping into a time machine.

Dubai A Global Hotspot For Travellers

By Leave a Comment

Every year there is an influx of expatriates consisting of both skilled and unskilled workers entering Dubai to work or leaving Dubai after their working contracts ends. Dubai is a fast emerging global hotspot for travellers and expatriates. This is especially so as the economy has started to recover after having its economy affected by the economic downturn.

Dubai has recently won the bid to host the World Expo 2020 and an estimated number of 2.5 million visitors, consisting mostly of expatriates are expected to pass enter the country during the six month long expo. There is an anticipated surge in the real estate, hotel and infrastructure industries to support the arrival of the expo. During the next few years prior to the expo, thousands of new job opportunities will attract both skill and unskilled workers to Dubai as the country gears up to host this much anticipated event.

Dubai with its strategic location, is less than a four hour flight for almost half of the world’s population. It is also a convenient destination for expatriates from Asia, Europe, Australia and America. With the availability of various cheap flights from Dubai to London and other countries around the world, it is convenient for expatriates to travel back home to visit their families or for holidays in the neighbouring countries.

UAE nationals and those holding a UAE passport enjoy heavily subsidized property purchase schemes, highly discounted rates on food items and groceries, free education for their children, and much cheaper utilities than expatriates. They also enjoy a high standard of living compared to many expatriates who live and work there. Many expatriates are deterred from buying houses in Dubai, knowing that once they reach retirement age, they will have to leave even though they have worked and have invested in the economy and have contributed actively to the betterment of the country.

All these years, the government has resisted the pressure to open up citizenship to expatriates, fearing that it would dilute their Emirati culture and national identity. They do not want to put a huge strain on social welfare schemes that are primarily enjoyed by their local population, which makes up a small percentage of the total population of their country.

5 Steps to Plan the Ultimate Luxury Escape

By 3 Comments

Want to get away from everything and travel in style? Looking for the perfect holiday retreat? Follow these steps to plan the ultimate luxury escape!

Dreaming of a luxury getaway? Well, you’re not alone. As summer approaches and time opens up, travel is on our minds as well.

A luxurious vacation may feel out of your reach, but we’re here to tell you that it isn’t! No matter how you look at it, there’s some way you can create that escape you’re longing for.

Whether it’s a cruise to the Bahamas or a European road trip, there’s something out there for you.

Not sure where to begin? Read on for five steps that will help you plan your ultimate luxury escape.

1. Consider Your Budget

First, let’s debunk the idea that luxury has to come with a huge price tag. It doesn’t. Several options exist for making your escape more budget-friendly.

Choosing dates that are less popular and setting a budget ahead of time (and sticking to it) are great ways to experience luxury for less money.

Whether you have a budget or not, find ways to let loose. Consider what your most desired luxuries would be and spend the bulk of your budget there.

Is the location most important? Or a jetted tub?

If you’re more interested in sites and attractions, spend less on your accommodations.

2. Skip the Hotel

While a hotel is probably the most popular type of vacation housing, don’t be afraid to change things up. Options such as Elite Holiday Homes or luxurious glamping destinations may give you more of a non-typical luxury escape.

All sorts of options await you, from houseboats to cruise ships. Something as simple as changing up your accommodations can make your vacation feel more luxurious than usual.

3. Plan Your Luxury Escape Details

When planning your escape, don’t skimp on the details! These are what make the trip the right fit for you.

Looking for romance? Plan ahead by arranging for those details that will set the mood you’re seeking.

Wanting adventure? Research the area of your chosen destination to see what’s available.

Choose the activities that will be most interesting, exhilarating, and unique to you.

Whether you’re looking for a themed vacation or one with variety, make your vacation yours. If luxury is what you’re after, don’t show up without any plans.

4. Leave Time to Relax

While planning is great, don’t plan every minute of your vacation. Doing so may really burn you out.

For many, true luxury is having time to literally do nothing. For others, it’s experiencing thrill with every footstep. Plan your escape according to your preferences, but leave room for changes and rest.

Feeling like you need a vacation after your vacation is the last thing you want if you’re going for luxury.

5. Make it Your Own

Whatever you do, make your vacation your own. That’s what will make it a luxury escape.

While you’re planning, avoid package deals. They may be tempting because of lowered expenses, but packages will often include things you don’t really care about.

Pick and choose. It’s your escape!

If you want a limousine to pick you up one night, book it. Seeking an amazing cliff-side view from your window? Find it.

The Eye of the Beholder

There’s no one right way to plan or experience a luxury escape. What luxury is to you may not be luxury to your neighbor.

As you plan, focus on what suits you. What will make you feel the most pampered and relaxed? What would truly make this an escape for you?

Keep these things in mind and you’ll experience a true getaway that won’t be forgotten.

To contact us or sign up for our email list, visit our site today.

6 Reasons Why You Should Take a Boat Cruise This Summer

By Leave a Comment

Summer is the perfect time to get out on the water and enjoy the scenery. Click here to learn why you should consider a boat cruise and take a break from it all

Have you been bitten by the travel bug?

One of the most popular ways to travel is on a boat cruise. In fact, more than 20 million people board some type of cruise ship every year.

Options for cruising are almost limitless. You can choose from week-long cruises through the Mediterranean or island-hopping in the Caribbean. Closer to home, you can enjoy a romantic dinner or overnight cruise on a lake or river.

Whether your vacation budget is large or small, there’s a boat cruise out there that’s perfect for you.

Still not convinced? Read on for six compelling reasons to take your family on a fun-filled cruise this summer.

1. Convenience

A major reason for the continued popularity is the convenience factor.

Think about it. You board the ship with all your luggage, check in to your “room,” and go to sleep in the same bed every night. And yet, every morning when you wake up, you’re in a new port, a new city, or a new island.

If you tried to visit four different Caribbean islands by plane, think of the hassle involved in getting to and from airports and sleeping in four different hotels.

With a cruise, you don’t have to worry about any of that. Simply board the ship and sit back and relax as it ferries you to your next exotic destination.

2. Easy Budgeting

Another terrific reason to take a boat cruise? You know exactly how much money you’ll spend, which make it budgeting a cinch.

We all have a tendency to overspend on vacations. But with a cruise, you’ll know exactly how much you’re going to spend before you even set foot on the boat.

Most cruise packages include your room, meals, and onboard activities. Depending on your budget, you can add on optional shore excursions to the price of your cruise.

Some cruises may include alcoholic beverages and gratuities for staff, while others do not. Be sure to read the fine print for any cruise you’re considering so you know exactly what is–and isn’t–included.

3. Fabulous Food

Gone are the days of drab cafeteria-style offerings on cruise ships.

While you’re still likely to find 24-hour buffets and bars, most cruise companies have really kicked their cuisine into high gear. Even on budget cruises, expect the option of five-star dining rooms with a delicious menu selection.

Many menus on cruises are inspired by the local cuisine of the destinations you’re visiting.

Others have paired with celebrity chefs to ensure their offerings rival any you’d find on land.

Worried you might gain weight on your cruise? You don’t have to. Wellness cruises offer seminars on active living, along with customized fitness programs and healthy meals.

4. Endless Activities

One thing is for certain: You’ll never be bored on a boat cruise.

Let’s start with the onboard activities. During the day, you can enjoy pools, water slides, rock climbing walls, or dance classes. In the evening, enjoy Broadway-style performances, live music, or magic shows.

Need some adult time? Drop off the kids for an endless array of supervised activities. They’ll have so much fun with their new friends they won’t want it to end.

And all of this is just on your days at sea. What about when the ship docks at its next destination? Depending on where your cruise takes you, there’s almost no end to the choices that await you.

In Europe, tour ancient ruins and explore hidden grottos. In the Caribbean, relax on a postcard-perfect beach or scuba dive with dolphins and sharks. If you visit Alaska or Antarctica, bundle up and get ready to trek across glaciers or watch whales breach.

What if these faraway destinations are out of your reach? That’s okay too. There’s no reason you can’t enjoy a fabulous boat cruise closer to home.

Read more here about champagne brunch, dinner, and special event cruises on Lake Minnetonka.

5. Disconnect (and Reconnect)

One of the best things about being out on the water–whether it’s the ocean, a sea, or a lake–is the chance to disconnect from the outside world.

Of course, all modern ships offer the option of connectivity. If you need to check your email or make a phone call, you certainly can.

But why not take the opportunity to unplug, not only from your daily life but from your electronics as well? Leave the cell phone in your cabin and unwind on a lounge chair beneath a beautiful sunset.

Spend some uninterrupted time with your family or friends. By disconnecting from your life onshore, you’ll have more of a chance to reconnect with nature and the people around you.

6. Do As Much (Or As Little) As You Want

When you take a boat cruise, you’ll find two types of people: those who want to do it all, and those who want to do nothing at all.

The do-it-alls sign up for every class, every shore excursion, and every show. They make the most of their vacation by cramming in as many fun activities as time allows.

The nothing-at-alls, on the other hand, spend their cruise unwinding from the stresses of life. You’ll see them relaxing by the pool all day or indulging in various spa treatments.

Which camp do you fall into? It doesn’t matter.

The point is: You can make your boat cruise whatever you want it to be!

Ready for Your Summertime Boat Cruise?

No matter where you decide to cruise–Alaska, the Caribbean, or a nearby lake–you’re sure to enjoy your time on the water.

Looking for more helpful travel advice? Check out our latest blog posts for more inspiration.

Up For a Spanish Tour?

By 1 Comment

Spain is one of the wonderful counties in Europe. This country is said to receive thousands of tourists all the year round. Getting to Spain is not a tough task if the prospective tourist has taken the assistance of a reputed travel agent or tour operator. Spain is an interesting place and has many locations of interest. The most important question for the prospective traveler is where he wants to spend his holidays. Some of the travelers would like to spend their holidays among nature. It simply could be on a beach or in a reserve forest, mountain, hill top or in a city, while some prefer to visit historical places. Whatever, be the area of choice, the tourists have plenty to enjoy in this country and cherish it for a long time to come.

The country of Spain is said to have a very long coastline along the Mediterranean Sea that covers an area of approximately around 250 kilometers. Some of the popular Hollywood films have been filmed on this coast which in itself speaks of its immense popularity. The Spanish beaches are said to be perfectly maintained and immaculately clean. There are plenty of adventure and water sports such as deep sea diving for the tourists to enjoy. Some of the popular Spanish beaches include Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca and Malaga. There are plenty of apartments and villas along the coasts where the tourists can relax and be assured of a luxurious stay without overshooting their budget.

Spain also has some interesting hill stations. Interestingly, most of the hill stations tend to run parallel to various beaches in the region. Hence, the tourists can easily enjoy the roaring sea from the hill top. Whereas, the visitors on the beach can simply enjoy the beauty of the mountains, that stares at the sea. The tourists can also enjoy the popular local cuisines at the villages located on the mountains.

There are plenty of historical locations in Spain. According to a survey conducted in the country, there are around 10000 historical buildings such as castles, cathedrals and churches that were constructed centuries ago, of which around 2500 structures are preserved by the government of Spain. The remaining have either crumbled or dilapidated due to the passage of time, but still offer a wonderful view of the historic past and rich culture of Spain.

The Spanish people also take pride in welcoming their guests from all parts of the world and try to make them comfortable as possible. You will go a long way with speaking to them if you learn Spanish before you visit. There are some popular festivals performed throughout the year that attracts people in hordes. The best part of visiting Spain is that one can get access to all forms of transport to reach it. The country of Spain also has been a wonderful location for couples getting married and enjoying their honeymoon. The markets, malls, shopping centers, spas and various other features of entertainment have induced the tourists to visit this beautiful country from all parts of the world all the year round.

 

Getting The Gist Of Luxurious Versus Budget Vacations

By 2 Comments

When you want to plan your next upcoming vacation, you will probably want to make sure that you are doing everything you can in order to get the most out of the entire experience. This might take some planning on your part, but it will be more than worth it, especially considering that these will be memories that will last you and your loved ones for many years.

The Luxury Vacation

If you want to make sure that you are creating the best possible vacation adventure for yourself and your family, you will want to find the places that offer a little bit of everything. All inclusive trips are usually highly desirable, as these types of trips allow you to simply lay back and relax, as everything is planned out for you.

You will also want to make sure that you are flying first class to an airport where a driver or rental car will be waiting to take you to your quality resort, such as the Cabo San Lucus luxury resort. You can really enhance your luxury resort experience by getting in touch with a professional from the resort itself, or simply from around that area, who can tell you about all of the hot spots that you need to hit up. If money is no object, you will want to make that clear, as you may then be invited to some of the more upscale events and venues that others may never hear about. It’s okay to spend some extra money when you are on your lavish vacation. After all, who knows when you will be returning to the same vacation destination again.

The Budget Vacation

Too many people make the mistake of assuming that a budget vacation means that it is not going to be as comfortable or as fun. This is hardly the case, especially if you’re taking a little time to plan before taking off. The more you think about how you can enhance this experience for everyone, the more memorable this experience will be for everyone.

One of the things you might want to do is to skip out on the air travel and take a road trip. Does this sound like a boring experience? It really doesn’t have to be! One of the best things you can do is to plan your road trip so that you will drive through some great tourist places. You can stop and see many sights along your way to your main destination. This will provide a lot of fun for your family, which will also help to make sure that the entire road trip does not feel as dull and long.

Saving Up For Future Vacations

Whether you simply want to make sure that you are saving up enough money for your next budget vacation, or you want to make sure that the next vacation is one of total luxury, you will want to start planning as far in advance as possible. This might mean starting a vacation savings fund, as you can not only keep those funds separate from your regular bill money, but you can earn some interest on it throughout the year. That gives you even more money to work with. You’ll just want to make sure that you are spending some time checking out the various ways in which you can maximize savings account profits.

Before you know it, you will have planned the best possible vacation for you and your family. You won’t have to stress about the vacation planning pat again, as it can now be looked at as an adventure for making sure that you’re getting the best deals and experiences possible.

Big State With Plenty to Do: Go Large on Fun in Texas

By Leave a Comment

Source

In Texas, everything is bigger. Second in size only to Alaska, the Lone Star State welcomes visitors with big landscapes, big attractions, and some of the most stunning scenery in the nation. If you’re planning to visit anytime soon, you’ll be glad to know about the following things to do and see in the great state of Texas.

Delightful Dallas

Few places rival Dallas for historical mystery and intrigue. The total truth may never be told, but there’s plenty to explore at the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. Here you can see the high rise window through which Lee Harvey Oswald allegedly fired the bullet that killed President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963. The museum chronicles what is known about the assassination and provides an inside look at the 35th President of the United States and is well worth adding to your Texas travel itinerary, notes USA Today.

Be a space cadet in Houston

NASA Space Center Houston is a must-see for anyone interested in astronautics and space exploration. Affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution, the Space Center hosts nine research facilities, an extensive education complex, and an out-of-this-world museum to thrill and inspire visitors of all ages. Be sure to reserve your spot for a behind the scenes tour of the Johnson Space Center and Mission Control.

Situated on the eastern edge of San Antonio, the Alamo is one of Texas’ most visited historical attractions. The Alamo was originally constructed in 1744 by Franciscans to serve as a mission but was converted into a military fort around 1836. Famed for its part in the Texas War of Independence, the Alamo was also the last place frontier explorer Davy Crockett drew his last breath. More than two million people visit the famed old fort annually. Be one of them, and you’ll remember the Alamo long after you return home from your stay at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort, advises PlanetWare magazine.

For an outdoor adventure filled with wonderful wildlife, spend a day discovering Padre Island. Located a short drive from Corpus Christi, Padre Island offers more than 70 miles of serene grassland, sandy beaches, billowing dunes, and more migratory birds than you’re likely to see in any other single place. Begin your tour at the Malaquite Visitor Center where you may rent a beach wheelchair if you so desire.

All this and art, too

In Dallas, drop by the Dallas Museum of Art where you can wander among tens of thousands of artistic artifacts from ancient Greece, Egypt, and Rome as well as modern work by artists such as Jackson Pollock.

Whooping it up in Texas is easy. Plan to visit as many places as you can, but don’t expect to see all of the Lone Star State in one visit.

Take to the open road on one of these iconic routes from around the world

By 2 Comments

Have you ever wanted to go on a road trip and see new and exciting countries in a way that most people don’t? Of course, you have, who hasn’t. Road trips are one of the most exciting and unique ways to see a country. You get away from the resorts and the typical tourist hotspots and you can see the countries you drive through in a completely different light. This is especially true for your home country if you have never done a road trip there. Songs, movies and books have featured some of the most famous routes in the world such as route 66. They detail the adventures, sights and experiences, that you could also have. Here we have chosen a selection of some of the most famous routes in the world and we will describe them to you in some minor detail to get those inspirational ideas flowing. Hopefully they will inspire you to use Purple parking a handy little service and go on your own adventure, maybe your native country is mentioned, and you can stay closer to home.

The wild Atlantic way, Ireland:

The wild Atlantic way takes you on a journey of over 2,000kms on the west coast of Ireland, bringing you along some of the most rustic and weather-beaten coastline you will witness. Ares of interest are the world-famous cliffs of Moher and Skellig Michael, recently used in the Star Wars franchise.  The journey can be completed in your own pace and is easily marked along may routes and maps. Otherwise you can simply ask a local, Irish style.

Route 66, USA:

What list would be complete without a mention of the incredible route 66, one of the most famous road trips in the USA. This 3,800 km journey will take you through small town America from California to Chicago and show you some of the old style and grace which inspired many musicians and travellers alike. You will have truly used one of the #wheelsoftheworld if you use an old Ford or Mustang for this trip.

Great Ocean Road. Australia

Would you like to see the twelve apostles in real life? Well then this is your chance as it is one of the many sights which can be found on the Great ocean road. Driving west out of Melbourne you will discover rain forests, ocean hugging cliffs and beaches and seascapes which make Australia one of the most picturesque countries in the world. Continue along to you next destination, or simply camp wherever you find a beautiful national park which allows it.

These routes are just some of many of the endless routes which can be taken around the world. Going on holidays and relaxing by the pool is a nice holiday. But to really see a country you must get out on the road, see the locals and drive the routes that are famous for a reason. They only cost you the price of a rental or even your own car. Road trips are something you will simply not forget.

How to Keep Your Love of Italy Alive Once You’re Back Home

By 1 Comment

If you’ve just gotten back from a dream trip to Italy, then there’s a good chance you instantly fell in love with its beauty, charm, and romance. Coming home can be somewhat jarring as you get back to your everyday life and commitments. Now that you’ve discovered a new favorite destination, why not work it into your life. You can include pieces of Italy in all kinds of ways, as we will examine.

Collect Classic Italian Jewelry

It’s always nice to pick up a souvenir or two while on vacation, but if you didn’t manage to get around to it, there’s no reason you can grab an authentic piece of Italian jewelry once you get home. When it comes to a piece that really showcases Italy’s incredible craftsmanship, nothing beats Jovon Antique Cameos.

These are an Eredi Jovon Venice specialty. The Italian shop has been around for more than 80 years, spanning across three generations. Back in 1934, Eredi Jovon used to sell pieces right on the famous Rialto Bridge in Venice. It’s here that you can still meet the owner as well as her sons as you take a look at their authentic Venetian pieces.

Learn to Cook Like an Italian

Here’s another authentic way that you can keep your love of Italy alive even once you’re back home and back to the grind. Why not learn how to cook like an Italian and continue your exploration of Italian cuisine?

You can do a little research about what your town offers, perhaps there may be some local Italian cooking classes. If not, you can take the initiative and pick up some books, watch some videos online, and tune in to cooking shows on the TV. Before you know it, you’ll be well on your way to cooking like an Italian.

Keep in mind that simplicity is key in Italian cooking.  You don’t need a lot of ingredients, or need to pull off fancy menus. However, the ingredients you do use should be high quality.

Include Italian Décor in Your Home

If you were struck by the beauty of Italian decor, furnishings, and architecture on your trip, then there is no reason you can incorporate a little of this flair into your own home. There are a number of different styles that are all considered authentic Italian. These styles include classic, renaissance, modern contemporary, and Tuscan. It’s really a matter of what fits your own tastes.

Keep in mind there is no reason to completely re-do the rooms in your house and make it entirely Italian. Instead, you can shop for key pieces that act as focal points in the room.

Keep the Spirit Alive

It’s always exciting to visit beautiful new destinations while on vacation, and Italy is definitely one of those destinations that will end up sticking with you. These are just a few ways you can keep that love of Italy alive even once you’re back home.