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how to increase sperm count

2011-10-03T13:27:00.000-07:00

how to increase sperm count

Increasing sperm count is one of the biggest problem for men who can't have baby. So we will give you detailed info how sperm count could be boos by natural ways.

Whether you want to increase your chances of having children, or simply want to ejaculate loads of sperm and semen, doubling the load is what all guys want to do in the grand scheme of things.

An abundance of sperm is a sign of testosterone and a healthy reproductive system and guys who watch porn know that guys like Peter North are popular for a reason. So now it's up to you to turn your once ordinary sperm into Supersperm (cue the music).
Why Increase Sperm?
Aside from the ego boost it gives guys, having more semen and sperm to release will result in longer orgasms, no doubt.

As well, increased sperm production will likely lead to an increase in sexual desire as well -- not that you need it, of course. Nevertheless, if you simply want to shower your woman with your love (yes, that's the really nice way of saying it) or you want to give fatherhood a fighting chance, today's tip is surely going to teach you something you didn't already know about your swimmers.
Let Your Boys Fly
The following tips may not all apply to you, but there are at least a couple you can take to heart, or to your testicles, to improve and increase your sperm count.

1- Quit Smoking
If you smoke, quit now. If it's not bad enough that you already have bad breath and can't taste anything, smoking also affects your sperm count. Not only do you have significantly less sperm than non-smoking men (22%), your little boys are also slower and smaller.

2- Remove The Heat
The reason your testicles hang from your body and don't reside inside it like a woman's ovaries, is because they need to be a few degrees cooler than the rest of your body. So wearing tight underwear or tight pants that keeps them pressed up against your 98.6° body is not a good idea. As well, sleep naked if you can, to ensure coolness.

3- Start Eating Right
Believe it or not, your diet affects your sperm production big time (how it affects the taste is debatable, however). And although I'm sure you already know that a diet that's low in fat, and high in protein, vegetables, and whole grains is good for your health, I bet you didn't know that it's also good for your sperm. Keep the boys healthy, speedy and in abundance by eating right.

4- Have Sex & Masturbate Less Often
Many readers write in to ask why their semen is sometimes nice and thick, and yet other times, it's transparent and somewhat watery. Well, it's quite simple actually, the more times you ejaculate, the less dense your semen will be. If you have sex every day, or worse, masturbate furiously, then chances are that your sperm count and semen density will not be up to par.

5- Drink Less
Alcohol affects your liver function, which, in turn, causes a dramatic rise in estrogen levels. So, as I'm sure you've already concluded yourself, this will interfere with sperm production because estrogen, not testosterone, will accumulate in your body. Even two drinks a day will have long-term effects on sperm production, so maybe you should put the beer down for today.

6- Exercise Your Muscle
Although this may not increase your actual sperm and semen production, exercising your PC muscle can help you shoot further than ever before. For some reason, some guys equate this with being the man (myself being one of them). Do your Kegel exercises and you'll be able to thrown down.

7- Try Supplements, Not Just Drugs
While certain drugs, such as marijuana (and all her illegal friends) and antifungal medicine, may hinder sperm production, others, like testosterone therapy, may help increase sperm production. As well, certain natural supplements promise to increase sperm production.

L-carnitine, found in red meat and milk, is a natural amino acid, and increases sperm production and speed. Of course, it can also be taken as a supplement.

Folic acid (or L-lysine -- all foods made with grains must be fortified with folic acid), when combined with zinc, increases the amount of sperm produced.

L-arginine (found in nuts, sesame seeds, eggs, and meat) is also highly regarded as a sperm enhancer.

Also, antioxidants such as vitamin E and selenium also improve sperm's speed and concentration.
It's All In Your Head
In the grand scheme of things, sperm really serves a purpose for the continuation of the population, but what do you care, right? All you want to do is shoot the boys across the room and freak out your woman.

Well, I hope I helped you do so. Until next time, on your mark, get set, ready, explode.

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2011-08-09T01:44:00.001-07:00

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2011-08-08T15:44:00.001-07:00

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aston martin vantage automatic transmission

2011-08-06T19:04:00.000-07:00

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Watch Bernard Bear - Football Youtube Video

2011-08-06T16:39:00.001-07:00

Watch Bernard Bear - Football Youtube Video

Watch Bernard Bear - Mountain Bike video from youtube

2011-08-06T16:35:00.000-07:00

Watch Bernard Bear - Mountain Bike video from youtube

What does my site look like in other browsers?

2011-05-10T11:56:00.001-07:00

What does my site look like in other browsers?

Good question. Unless your home or workplace happens to be a computer repair store then chances are you have access to only one or maybe two computers. And even then probably only one operating system and one browser (no names mentioned).

BrowserShots is a clever site that takes a screenshot of your site from a bunch of different distributed computers, OS’s and browsers. When I tried it recently it covered 44 different combinations.

The service is slow, but it is free. You can pay a support fee to get access to faster response time. All in all a pretty handy service.

By the way, prepare to be shocked. Your baby may not look as pretty as you think.

Site Down for Maintenance with htaccess

2011-05-10T11:55:00.001-07:00

Site Down for Maintenance with htaccess

You can use Apache’s rewrite mod in your htaccess file to achieve a simple down for maintenance handler. Some scripts have this built in, some you have to roll your own. This will work with both.

The following htaccess rules will achieve the following:

1. Check the maintenance.html file exists
2. Avoid a loop and or server error by checking that the file being requested is not the maintenance.html file itself
3. Ignore requests from the site developer’s browser (that’s you so you can see the rest of the site)
4. Issue a temporary (302) redirect to everyone else’s browser to fetch the maintenance file instead.

You can modify this behaviour by:

Switching the maintenance mode on or off by renaming or deleting the maintenance file
Adding other IP address rules to permit others (developers, or clients) to view the site
RewriteEngine On
RewriteCond %{DOCUMENT_ROOT}/path/to/maintenance.html -f
RewriteCond %{SCRIPT_FILENAME} !maintenance.html
RewriteCond %{REMOTE_ADDR} !123.123.123.123
RewriteRule ^(.*)$ /path/to/maintenance.html [L,R=302]

You can of course rename the maintenance.html file to anything you please.

How to make iPhone ringtones

2011-05-10T11:53:00.000-07:00

How to make iPhone ringtones

Out of the box, iPhones appear to only let you install ringtones purchased from the Apple iStore. For those who don’t want to cough up the dollar or so for a second’s worth of sound byte or just want to do their own thing, here’s how to use Apple’s own tools to do the job for free:

Open a new project in GarageBand.
Drop your sound file into the track pane – it will create a new audio track.
Delete or mute any other tracks that were auto inserted when the new project was created.
Click on the Loop button in the Transport controls at the bottom of the window.
Adjust the loop/cycle length using the gold coloured area at the top of the track ruler.
Menu->Share->Send ringtone to iTunes.
That’s it. It’s cropped, it’s in the right file format, and it’s in your ringtone folder in iTunes. Go ahead and sync to your phone.
Of course you can use whatever tools within Garageband to crop/edit the ring tone before you export it to iTunes.

Remember not to abuse copyright laws and use only your own recordings.

String Replace in MySQL

2011-05-10T11:51:00.001-07:00

I found out about this functionality just a few months ago. I can’t believe I went for years writing little scripts to pull the data out, manipulate it with string functions, and then post it back in.

Admittedly this is only really useful for simple changes. Most of the time I’ve had to make more detailed changes.

But nevertheless it is useful. In my case, most often when an update to a database doesn’t go quite as expected, leaving odd or rogue results – resulting in whole or part of a string needing to be replaced, or additional text inserted (same thing). This sure beats editing records by hand or knocking up little update scripts.

The usage is similar in a way to the PHP string replace function:

replace(in_Field, old_string, new_string)

An example:

UPDATE myTable
SET myField =
REPLACE (myField, 'oldString', 'newString')
WHERE ...
And you simply change your WHERE clause to suit your own conditions. Or leave it out altogether.

WordPress vs Textpattern vs sNews CMS Review

2011-05-10T11:45:00.000-07:00

WordPress vs Textpattern vs sNews CMS Review

This has been covered many times by others and yet I have still managed to spend the last 3 or 4 weeks mulling over the pros and cons of each, reading various reviews and comparisons by others and spending a infuriatingly inordinate amount of time installing, un-installing and re-installing all 3 platforms.
Now, at last I ve settled on my platform of choice: Textpattern.

Requirements
I have several pressing web projects at hand:
* retail business requiring static pages, a blog & ecommerce solution
* personal blogs x2
* community magazine requiring multiple authors for article and photo management, multiple layouts management, resources & links management, a simple forum
* corporate site with inbuilt blogging, multi user, user tracking and newsletter management
* large portal site restructure with around 200,000 posts currently being bogged down by a bloated backend

Blogging Tools as Frameworks
Having developed custom solutions based on various larger CMS and portal systems, most of them hacked to the extreme, I was anxious to try a something more lightweight and see how far it could be pushed without having to code a great deal. Additionally I had found, from a coder s perspective, that a common pattern emerged many times: one that would appear to be easily solved by using the blog as a development framework. A million people have eloquently arrived at that solution before me. Maybe I m a bit slow on the take up. Maybe I m a masochist. I m sure most programmers are.

Time
Additionally, and perhaps most importantly, I have a limited amount of spare time. If possible I would prefer to learn one new system well and apply it liberally to cover all my needs; and I m prepared live with the inherent shortcomings of that strategy. (Yikes, I may live to regret that statement)

Pre-selection criteria
The final 3 candidates were pre-selected based on the following criteria:
* Something that runs on LAMP (Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP). All my development work has been done on this and I feel comfortable there. So the candidates were naturally drawn from the wonderfully deep pool of PHP driven solutions

* Simple to use and administrate
* Aesthetically pleasing nice to look at yes, I don t want to look at any more ugly admin interfaces
* Easy to extend via a sensible plugin architecture or via custom coding
* Open Source: not because it is free ( I did consider Expression Engine at one point) but because I enjoy the speed with which Open Source projects are generally developed
* Robust architecture less time spent chasing bugs that should never have been introduced in the first place
* A mature user community mature in the sense that it has been around a while and hopefully mature in the other sense

The not-so-shortlist
I looked at Joomla, Expresion Engine, Xoops, Serendipity, sNews, Textpattern, WordPress, Drupal, Website Baker.

In order to get all the features I was looking for I would have had to choose one of the bigger systems: more bulk on the server, more load, harder to administrate and occasionally harder for users who are not web savvy to negotiate.

All are exceptional pieces of work and are capable (with a few twists) of fulfilling most web development needs. But a balance had to found between simplicity, beauty and power. It was a matter of finding the sweetspot: some features would have to be custom built or standalone scripts integrated in order to preserve some sanity.

And this is what led to my final selection being made from WordPress, Textpattern and sNews. At one point I did consider using all three over several projects. That would have been a great way to really test them out: but in the end time was the factor that made me make my final choice.

WordPress
Pros:
It used by millions
Simple plug and play for plugins
Admin interface is great
Template installation is simple

Cons:
I found many of the plugins buggy. Not all. Just some. But enough to start really annoying me
The forum appears a bit petty at times and there are a lot of unanswered posts
Complex layouts are possible, but only by working against the normal way of things
Template development appears to be messy

Textpattern
Pros:
Simple plug and play for plugins via cut and paste nice
Flexible layout building via inbuilt tag system
Textile: A Humane Web Text Generator: I really like this. It makes writing easy and generates compliant code that does not break your site
Good forum support
Inbuilt page stats and if you add the db admin plugin then you have direct access to phpMyAdmin features right from the one admin panel. A nice touch for admins
Custom fields. Yay! Developers friends
Inbuilt image & file management

Cons:
Sections versus categories yes it s confusing until you read the manual
Admin panel is almost confusing but isn t really just looks that way. Probably needs revamped. I m sure it s on the to do list for the developers. Might scare non web savvy users a bit though. Will have to wait and see
Template installation is messy. But template development appears to be very logical and powerful thanks to the inbuilt TXP tags system

sNews
Pros:
Simple
Templating is the easiest of them all with this one
Lightweight and fast

Cons:
Simple. More complex sites may be difficult to realise due to having to custom code a flexible layout scheme. It has just released and official multi user version which makes larger sites possible, but it doesn t support the level of access control available in WordPress and Textpattern
No plugin support

Verdict
I really wanted to join the band wagon and choose WordPress. The admin interface is so easy to fall in love with. It has all the cuteness of the Joomla interface but is simple. (Sorry Joomla, lots of eye candy but I don t have enough time to take up a new hobby: Joomla/Mambo administration). But those buggy plugins!

And I really wanted to choose sNews for its simplicity. Often simplicity = power. But it would mean hacking into the core too much. Currently this is how sNews is modded. The reasoning behind it is sound enough. But from my experience, without exception, every time I have seriously altered the core code of an open source application I have found myself unable to upgrade to newer versions. I’ll upgrade once or twice then the thought of plowing through all that commented code to find changes just puts me off and once again I am left with my own development fork.

So, in the end, I chose Textpattern. A compromise. One size fits all. It is a simple elegant solution. A powerful framework design that lends itself to the management of complex layouts and sites through the use of plugins and TXP tags. Much of the design and content management of the sites can be safely handed over to non coders. And in the end I ll hopefully get back some time.

Best FTP programs: online File transfer

2011-01-05T09:58:00.001-08:00

Blaze Ftp:
HyperText Studio: The HyperText Studio is a WYSIWYG online Help and Web editor. This program uses an Integrated Development Environment for visual project development. download it

1st Choise FTP Pro:This programs the most distinct feature is the resemblance of its feature on Windows Explorer. You can easily operate this program by using Drag & Drop function

Blaze Ftp is a nice Ftp transfer program. It well known by two framed windows system You either may drag your files to local or FTP sections. This FTP program provides detailed information on FTB connection and how to use it. When comparing other FTP programs, Blaze FTP’s connection speed is a little bit slow. On the other hand it is extremely user friendly. The best of it, no need to pay for using this ftp program.
Smart FTP:
HyperText Studio The HyperText Studio is a WYSIWYG online Help and Web editor. This program uses an Integrated Development Environment for visual project development. download it
1st Choise FTP Pro: This programs the most distinct feature is the resemblance of its feature on Windows Explorer. You can easily operate this program by using Drag & Drop function.

Smartftp:

Free and popular FTP program. With Smart FTP you can make multi download to various web sites simultaneously. This program also secures the Queuing of the download, setting the file transfer speed. Another advantages of Smart Ftp is free to use .

Flash FXP:

Most web master’s first choice FTP Prgoram. Both design and operating is outstandingly. FlashFXP meets most of requirements of users. From here you can get detailed knowledge hoe to install and operate this program. Trial download link

FileZilla:

The main advantage of this program is that Open source FTP client. It includes a site manager to store all your connection details and logins as well as an Explorer style interface that shows the local and remote folders and can be customized independently. download it

Adobe GoLive:
Adobe GoLive is a WYSIWYG- HTML editor that enables content authors to quickly and easily updates existing websites and blogs. You may operate it either cod based or interface based settings and reported to your entire site by using this program.

Adobe PageMill:
Another WYSIWYG (What-You-See-is-What-You-Get)- HTML editor by Adobe Inc.

The HyperText Studio is a WYSIWYG online Help and Web editor. This program uses an Integrated Development Environment for visual project development
HyperText Studio:
The HyperText Studio is a WYSIWYG online Help and Web editor. This program uses an Integrated Development Environment for visual project development. There are two different edition of HyperText Studio. Web edition is open and free for all web users.

1st Choise FTP Pro:

This programs the most distinct feature is the resemblance of its feature on Windows Explorer. You can easily operate this program by using Drag & Drop function.

,

The HyperText Studio is a WYSIWYG online Help and Web editor. This program uses an Integrated Development Environment for visual project development. download it
1st Choise FTP Pro:This programs the most distinct feature is the resemblance of its feature on Windows Explorer. You can easily operate this program by using Drag & Drop function.

prenatal vitamins benefits and side effects, ingredients prenatal vitamins hair growth

2010-12-24T08:12:00.000-08:00

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In essence, your body requires more of nearly every essential nutrient as it works overtime to support all the critical activity in your womb. As a result the idea of popping a pill containing everything you need sounds attractive. It's a hedge-your-best kind of option that appeals to most expectant mother's better instincts. But do you really need to take a pill to have a healthy baby?

Probably not, say nutritionists. But that's contingent on one important factor: that you eat carefully and well. Unfortunately, research has shown most pregnant women typically get too little of a number of important nutrients, including vitamin B6, folate, calcium, and iron. If, despite your best efforts, your diet leave something to be desired, you definitely should take a prenatal vitamin. (Stick with true prenatal vitamins. Regular multivitamins often contain to little of certain substances like folate and too much of other substances, including vitamin A.)

Also, if you're prone to nausea during the first trimester, certain healthy foods, especially leafy greens like spinach, can be virtually impossible to choke down. If you're to nauseated to eat anything healthy, a prenatal vitamin is just the ticket to keep you nutritionally on track. Just don't let that little pill lull you into a false sense of security. It's all to easy to lose sight of your dietary priorities if you assume you're getting everything you need in a single gulp. And if you choose to go the real-food route, remember that you'll still need a folate and iron supplement, and probably calcium as well.

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2010-09-29T13:54:00.000-07:00

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2010-09-29T13:21:00.000-07:00

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2010-09-29T13:14:00.000-07:00

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2010-09-29T13:02:00.001-07:00

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istanbul travel guide - istanbul city guide - istanbul trip advisor

2010-05-24T12:25:00.000-07:00

Istanbul Museums
Ayasofya Museum
The Basilica of St. Sophia, now called the Ayasofya Museum , is unquestionably one of the finest buildings of all time .Built by Constantine the Great and reconstructed by Justinian in the 6th century, its immense dome rises 55 meters above the ground and its diameter spans 31 meters. You should linger here to absorb the building's majestic serenity and to admire the fine Byzantine mosaics. (Open every day except Monday).

Istanbul has some of the most I exciting museums, ranging from the magnificent Haghia Sophia to the intimate Sadberk Hamm Museum. Entrance fees, where charged, are very reasonable.

Archaeological Museums (Arkeoloji Muzeleri)
Sultanahmet, Tel: 520 77 40 Across from the Cinli (Tiled) Kiosk sn Topkap: Palace's outermost court zs the magnijacent Archaeological Museum. The first jlooy and the annex of the museum is open to the public, displaying a selection of the 60,000 Greco- Roman and Neay Eastern antiquities in the collection, including moye than 75,000 inscribed clay tablets. Don't miss the wonderfully preserved Alexander Saycophagus found in Sidon and the treaty of Kadesh, the first peace treaty evey to be signed in the world. The museum brings to life the peoples of the ancient Middle East. Recently opened special educational section for children. Open 09.30-16.30. Closed Mondays.

Ataturk Museum
Halaskârgazi Caddesi 250, Sisli Tel: 240 6319 Ataturk, the foundey of modern Turkey, lived here briefly. The house displays some of hrs personal effects. 09.30-16.30. Closed Thuysdays and Sundays.

Calligraphy Museum (Mat Sanatlari Muzesi)
Beyazit Square, Tel: 527 58 51 The Ottomans, always uneasy with human pictorial representation, found fulley urtistic expression in calligraphy. This is the only museum of calligraphy in the world. 09.00-16.00. Closed Sundays and Mondays.

Carpet and Kilim Museum (Mah ve Kilim Muzesi)
(Next to the Blue Mosque), Sultanahmet, Tel: 518 13 30 A wonderjul collection of ancient kslsms and carpets in a very cool, marble environment. Also a large collection ofcarpets. 09.00-12.00, 13.00-16.00. Closed Sundays and Mondays.

Divan Literature Museum (Divan Edebiyati Muzesi)
Galip Dede Caddesi 15, Tünel, Beyoglu, Tel: 245 4141. Also called the Galata Mevlevihane, this is where the mystic "Whirling Dervishes" perform "Sema" dances and Suf music, on the last Sunday of every month. A memorable experience not to be missed. A fine display of instruments and dervish accessories. Closed Mondays.

Maghia Sophia
Sultanahmet, Tel: 52217 50 The Church ofHoly Wisdom is undoubtedly one of the greatest architectural creations in the world. Built by the Byzantine EmperorJustinian circa AD535, it was transformed into a mosque afler the Ottoman conquest of the city in 1453. Now a museum, it is awesome in size, and contains beautifully preserved Byzantine mosaics. Hanging alongside the pictures of Chrrst are huge wooden discs proclaiming the greatness of Allah: a meeting point of religions. A must for any visitor to Istanbul. 9.30-16.30. Closed Mondays.

Kariye Museum (The Church of St. Saviour fn Chora)
Kariye Catnu Sokak, Edirnekapi, Tel: 63192 41 A legendary Byzantine church decorated with extraordinary laté- l4th centuryfrescoes and mosaics portraying the life and miracles of Christ. The most important and extensive series of Byzantine paintings in the city and among the most significant in the world. 09.30-16.30. Closed Tuesdays.

Maritime Museum (Deniz Muzesi)
Besiktas Tel: 26100 40 Includes examples of the extraordinary caiques that used to row the Sultans to and from their homes along the Bosphorus. 09.30- 17.00. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

Mosaic Museum
Opposite Arasta Bazaar (behind the Blue Mosque), Sultanahmet, Tel: 51812 05 Houses the beautiful mosaics discovered in Justinian's Grand Palace of Byzantium. 09.30-17.00. Closed Tuesdays.

Museum of the 1839 Reforms /Tanzimat Muzesi)
Gulhane Park, Tel: 512 63 84 A small museum celebrating the Ottomans' l9th century attempt to catch up with the rest of Europe. Open every day 09.00-17.00.

Rahmi M. Koç Industrial Museum
Haskoy Caddesi 27, Sutluce, on the Golden Horn, Tel: 256 7153/54 A recently opened museum which gives an excitingglimpse into Istanbul's industrial past. Displays include scale models of steam engines, ships, cars, a full Maklin train set which visitors can operate and a fully recreated ship's bridge. Open 10.00-17.00. Closed Monday.

Sadberk Mamm Museum
Buyukdere Caddesi 27-29, Sanyer Tel: 242 3813 Excellent archaeological and ethnographical collections displayed in two handsome old mansions on the Bosphorus.10.30-17.00. Closed Wednesdays.

Topkapi Palace Museum
sultanahmetSultanahmet, Tel: 512 04 80 The legendary palace of the Ottoman sultans from the l5th to the l9th centuries. Low buildings set in a series of courtyards, Topkapi is quite unlike a Western palace. Be sure to see the Harem, the Treasury and the golden-roofed Baghdad Kiosk. 09.30-17.00. Closed Tuesdays.

The Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art
At Meydam 46, Sultanahmet, Tel: 51813 85, 51818 05 A delightjul museum on the ancient Hippodrome, housed in Ibrahim PaSa Sarayi, the home of Suleyman the Magnificent's Grand Vizier. Beautifully displayed Islamic objects and antique carpets.10.00- 17 00. Closed Mondays.

Yildiz Palace Museum (Marangozhane)
Yildiz Palace, Barbaros Bulvari, Besiktas, Tel: 258 30 80/ext. 280 The converted carpentry workshop of Sultan Abdulhamit now houses exquisite poycelain pieces, giant vases and the joinery produced by the Sultan himself. Open 10.00- 16.00. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

Istanbul Mosques

Istanbul has hundreds of mosques, both monumental and intimate. Mosques are open to visitors every day outside worshipping hours, which are announced by the muezzins' call to prayer. All visitors are asked to remove their shoes and women are expected to cover their heads before entering. A few of the most architecturally interesting are:

Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)
Sultanahmet Square The mostfamous mosque in the city, built in the early l7th century, distinguished by six slendey minarets and walls covered with amazing blue Iznik tiles. Open every day except during prayer times. Facing St. Sophia stands the supremely elegant, six-minaret, imperial Sultanahmet Mosque. Built between 1609 and 1616 by the architect Mehmet.

Eyup Mosque
Eyup For the Islamic world, this is the holiest mosque in all of Istanbul. The Ottoman sultans held their coyonation ceyemonies here. The faithful still flock here to pray to the yelics of Eyup, a companion of the Prophet. Be suye not to visit on Fridays, when the mosque is packed with woyshippers. Up the hill through the graveyard is the atmospheric Pierre Loti Cafe, ofjersng yefreshments and an arresting view of the Golden Horn.

Nuruosmaniye Mosque
Cagaloglu An 18th century mosque incluenced by baroque architecture. Consideyed a turning point in mosque architecture. Ortakoy Mosque
Ortakoy A superb setting on a point jutting into the Bosphorus. This Ottoman bayoque mosque displays a wondeyful sculptuyal approach.

Sokullu Mehmet Pasha Mosque
Sultanahmet Near the Covered Bazaay, an intimate Sinan mosque, built in a conf ned space, but neveytheless breathtakingly beautiful.

Suleymaniye Mosque
Beyazit Sinan's masterpiece. The massive scale of this mosque is best appreciated from a distance. Up close, the mosque is formal and rather forbidding, but it is interesting to wander around the surrounding complex of buildings.

Yeni Cami (New Mosque)
Eminonu A late example of classical Ottoman architectuye, this is one of the most familiar landmarks in the city.

Istanbul Churches

The city abounds with churches of various denominations. A few churches of particular interest are:

St. Anthony of Padua
Istiklal Caddesi, Tunel One of the city's best known functioning Roman Catholic churches.

Church of St. George
Fener The seat of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate.

Christ Church
Serdari Ekrem Sokak 82, Tunel, Beyoglu A restored Anglican church, formerly known as the Crimean Memorial church, designed by the famous Victorian architect C.E. Street

St. Mary Pammakaristos (Fethiye Cami)
Fener, Tel:522 17 50 Many Byzantine emperors are buried here. Permission to visit must be obtained from the Haghia Sophia Museum, 09.30-17.00, closed Mondays

SS Sergius and Bacchus (Kucuk Ayasofya)
Sultanahmet A Byzanttine church built in Emperor Justinian's era. A must for architectuyal historians.

St. Stephen of the Bulgars
Fener Styanded in the middle of the Golden Horn road, this l9th century structure is built entirely of iyon. It was pyefabricated in Vienna and sent via the Danube to be eyected here to celebyate the independence of the Bulgarian Church.

Istanbul Palaces

Beylerbeyi Palace
Cayirbasi Duragi, Beylerbeyi Tel: (216) 32193 20 A restored summer palace of the late Ottoman sultans, buiLt of white marble. 09.30-16.00. Closed Mondays and Thuysdays.

Ciragan Palace
Besiktas The formey summer home of the Ottoman sultans, now rebuilt as part of the complex of the Ciragan Palace HoteL Kempinski.

Dolmabahçe Palace
Besiktas Tel: 258 55 44 The l9th century rococco residence of the Ottoman sultans, and the place where Ataturk died in 1938. BeautifulLy situated, with a 600 metre frontage on the Bosphorus, an impressive ballroom, and ornate Victorian furniture embodying the Turkish assimilatian of European cultulre. Visitors are admitted in groups, Led by the museum's guides. Try to go eayly in the moyning, later in the day it may be fully booked. 09.00-16.00. CLosed Monday and Thuysday.

Ihlamur Palace
Ihlamurdere Caddesi, Besiktas , Tel: 261 29 91 A sylvan imperial rest house that remains seyene in the midst of city traffic. 09.00-17.00. Closed Mondays and Thuysdays.

Sale Kosku (Yildiz Park)
Besiktas, Tel: 259 45 70 Late Ottoman imperial palaces, this time set in the hills above the Bosphorus, in the leafy Yildiz Park. Sale (Chalet) Kosku is an elegant wooden building which served as residance for foreign state guests and is now a museum, 09.30-16.00, Closed Mondays and Thursdays.
Other Important Sights

Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)
Yerebatan Caddesi, Sultanahmet Square, Tel: 52212 59 The vast awesome columned cavern was the watey souyce foy both the Gyand PaLace of the Byzantines and for the Ottomans' Topkapi PaLace. Open 09.00-17.30.

The Bosphorus
The straits which divide Euyope from Asia and define Istan6uL. A txip to the city would not 6e complete without a cruise up and down its shores. Imperial palaces are interspersed with wooden seaside mansions, decorative ferry landings, the twin fortresses of RumeLi Hisar and Anadolu Hisay, and two intercontinental bridges. Along the way, stop to exploye Rumeli Hisar (Open 09.30-1700 except Monday). Sultan Mehmet had the castle built in 1452 so he could lay siege to the city. If you take the circulay touy from Eminonu (2 hours each way) you can enjoy a fish lunch at Anadolu Kavag2. Feyry-boats also leave from Eminonu for various points along the weterway. Private boats can be hiyed during the summer.

The Covered Bazaar (Kapali Carsisi)
Has several gates: most used are at Cagaloglu and Beyazit Istanbul's legendary bazaar, a labyrinth of over 4000 little shops, is everything you dreamed an oriental mayket could be. Gold jewellery, carpets, siLver bibelots, leather, ceyamics, copper and bras objects, embroideries, hand-woven textiles, meerschaum pipes-in othey words a tyeasure tyove. Best approached from the Nuruosmaniye I entrance. Open 09.00-19.00 ' Monday-Saturday.

Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) Buyukhendek Sokak, Sishane Tel: 2451160 Worth climbing to the top for the view from this l4th century Genoese folly. 08.00-21.00. Open every day.

The Princes' Islands
A group of nine islands four of them-Kinaliada, Burgazada, Heybeliada and Buyukada-inhabited. Afavourite summer place since Byzantine times, the islands are a haven of quiet. With their beautiful villas and pine groves, they offer lovely walks all year round. No private cars are allowed, so transportation is either by foot, horsedrawn carriage or donkey. Ferry-boats leave from Sirkeci, Kadakoy and Bostanca and sea buses operate infrequently from Kabatas and Bostanca (call 362 04 44 for sea 6us information). A charming excursion.

The Spice or Egyptian Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)
Eminonu An exotic food market and bazaar selling spices, dried fruits cheeses, olives, as well as towels, slippers, baskets and some jewellery. Outside, to the lefL, there is a wonderful flower and bird market and to the right merchants busily seLl vegetables and fish with lots of local coLour. Open Monday- Saturday 09.00-19.00.

Yildiz Park
(entrance on coast road between Besiktas and Ortakoy) The Sultans' private park, now open to the public, with two lovely buildings-Malta Kosk and Cadir Kosk. Both places have marvelous terraces. Also don't miss the elegant wooden Sale (Chalet) Kosku inside the park which is a museum. The park is a favourite of courting couples.

Istanbul Car Rentals

2010-05-24T12:17:00.001-07:00

GLOBCAR
Tel : + 90 (212) 237 44 79 PBX
Fax: + 90 (212) 235 21 05
BUDGET CAR RENTAL
Cumhuriyet Cad. Seyhan Apt. No:12, K:4 D:10 Elmadağ-İSTANBUL
Tel : + 90 (212) 296 31 96
Fax : + 90 (212) 296 31 88
SE CAR
Hariciye Konagi Sok.No:13 Ozan Han K.4
80090 Taksim / ISTANBUL
TEL:+ 90 (212)79 25/26
FAX:+90 (212) 293 33 48

PENTA RENT A CAR
Divanyolu Caddesi No:44 Sultanahmet Istanbul - TURKIYE
Tel: +90 (212) 511 56 91 - 511 66 17
Fax:+90 (212) 512 81 26
Bus and plane tickets, tour organizations, hotel rezervations, rent a car
SPECTRA RENT A CAR
Divanyolu Cad. No:70-3 Sultanahmet-ISTANBUL
Tel : + 90 (212) 512 68 60
Fax: + 90 (212) 520 62 06
AIRTOUR
Tel:(212) 232 84 86-232 84 88 AVIS
Tel:(212) 257 76 70 BUDGET
Tel:(212) 253 92 00-253 96 53 CITY
Tel:(212) 251 40 31 CONTINENTAL
Tel:(216) 348 73 30 ESIN
Tel:(212) 254 77 99-253 53 73 EURO CAR RENTAL
Tel:(216) 358 97 14 FEDERAL
Tel:(216) 349 64 31-349 64 41 EKIN HERTZ
Tel:(212) 214 69 96 INTER LIMOUSINE
Tel:(212) 246 63 93-94 LET'S
Tel:(212) 232 59 93-241 78 99 MANEGER
Tel:(212) 234 22 23-234 22 54 MIDLANDS
Tel:(212) 512 65 01-661 19 93 OSCAR
Tel:(212) 588 29 36-588 30 57 PLAN TOURS
Tel:(212) 230 22 72-230 81 18 PRESTIGE
Tel:(216) 386 70 18-19 STAR
Tel:(212) 230 12 84-231 81 77 STEP
Tel:(212) 240 35 77-248 20 40 SUN
Tel:(212) 275 29 13-14 THIRFTY
Tel:(216) 345 01 02 VON HOGEN (BEY)
Tel:(212) 643 53 50 YES EURODOLLAR
Tel:(216) 349 36 87

İstanbul Climate Table

2010-05-24T12:15:00.001-07:00

	MIN	MAX
January	3	9
February	2	9
March	3	11
April	7	16
May	12	21
June	16	26
July	18	29
August	20	29
September	16	25
October	12	21
November	8	15
December	5	11

Shopping in Istanbul Tips

2010-05-24T12:06:00.000-07:00

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jewelry shopping in istanbul
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shopping in istanbul reviews
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Shopping in Istanbul is unabashedly fun because it is almost as much of a cultural experience as a way of spending money. The memory of the tea- drinking, bargaining and discussion that took place during a particular purchase becomes a part of the item you take home.

No one should miss the Kapali Carsi (the Covered Bazaar) in the heart of the old city, a hive of over 4000 little shops that is one of the original precursors of the malls that have become such fixtures in the West. There are other interesting shopping districts arty areas such as Ortakoy, chic Nisantasi for fashion, the delightful Spice Bazaar (Misir ÇarSiss) for Turkish food, and Galatasayay Balikpazari a unique fish market.

The city's growing number of up market hotels have plenty of small boutiques stocked with superior merchandise. But their prices are usually high. So if you have the time, shop around. Here is a brief guide to some shops that may be away from the Bazaar and the hotels, but are worth a visit. Antiques

Istanbul is a wonderful place for antique collectors. The choice runs from traditional Turkish craft pieces to some fine European furniture. Browsing is a great treat. Store owners are always ready to explain the history of their wares. Learning about the different uses for an antique item can be an education in itself. Prices vary greatly; the fancier the shop, the more one pays. Antikarnas Kuloglu Mahallesi, Faik Pasa Yokusu 15, Cukurcuma, Tel: 25159 28, 2514135 Turkisk, Ottoman, and European antiques and curiosities, religious and decoyative objects.

Antikhane FaikpaSa Yokusu 41, Cukurcuma, Tel: 25195 87, 245 74 54 Turkey's largest antiques warehouse with nine jlooys of prints, maps, books, Islamic and oriental arts, Turkrsh and European paintings, l8th and l9th century furniture. Artisan Sakayik Sokak 54/1, Nisantasi Tel: 247 90 81 Old prints, maps, books, paintings.

Artrium I Tunel Passage 58&7, Tunel, Beyoglu, Tel: 25143 02, Fax: 249 89 83 A wide range of prints, cards, old movie end theatre posters together with old and new frames in an authentic Pera atmospheye. Open 09.30-19.00 every day except Sunday.

Artrium II Sofyali Sokak 9, Tunel, Beyoglu, Tel: 244 27 58 Antique frames.

Cukurcuma A lively group of shops specialising in country" antiques lining the back streets of Beyoglu, once the city's most distinguished district and now trying to recoverfrom its shabby reputation.

Galeri Alfa Ltd. Faikpa,sa Yokufu, Fazilet Apu 47/2, Çukurcuma, Beyoglu, Tel: 25116 72 Antique books, maps and prints from Tuykey's diverse past.

Hikmet + Pinar Faikpasa Yokusu 36, Cukurcuma, Tel: 243 24 00, 293 05 75 A new shop selling inteyesting old weapons, wood works, etc.

Morhor Bit Pazari (flea market) Kirik Tulumba Sokak 13/22, Aksaray A five-storey flea market, filled with furniture and collectables.

Kadikoy Antikacdar Carsisi (flea market) Moda Caddesi, Tellalzade Sokak, Cakiroglu Isham, Kadikoy (on the Asian side)

Kuledibi Bit Pazari (flea market) (near Galata Tower,Sishane) An alley of about a dozen shops. Lots of furniture, some collectibles.

Kusav Hasfirin Caddesi, Sinanpasa Is Merkezi, 3rd floor, Besiktas Tel: 227 34 85, 260 77 00 This "Foundation for the Conservation and Promotion of Culture and Arts" organizes antiques auctions every other Sunday, and offers expertise service.

Mecidiyekoy Antikacilar Carsisi Tomurcuk Sokak 1-7, Mecidiyekoy A large building with shops selling lots of elaborate pieces in the l9th century style.

Oda Cukurcuma Caddesi 52, Çukurcuma, Tel: 245 50 51, 245 50 52 Authentic, antique handmade objects. Old Ottoman plates and candlesticks, glasses, silk, silver and handmade wooden toys.

Sofa Art and Antiques Nuruosmaniye Caddesi 42, Cagaloglu, Tel: 527 4142 A fine selection of old prints and maps, ceramics, miniatures, calligraphy, textiles, antique rugs, silver and contemporary art.

Sofa Art & Antiques swissotel the Bosphorus, 2nd floor of the shopping arcade, Macka, Tel: 259 02 27, Fax: 249 89 83 Old Turkish ceramics, miniatures, calligraphy, old prints and maps, paintings and a large selection of authentic gifts. Open from 09.00- 21.00 every day.

Atlas Passage Istiklal Caddesi 209, Beyoglu (same entrance as for Atlas Cinema) An arcade filled with little curiosity shops.

Cep Art Gallery Galip Dede Caddesi 68, Tunel, Beyoglu, Tel: 245 19 96 A small shop selling original paintings and quality frames.

Elite Sakayik Sokak 63/14, Nisantasi, Tel: 232 4319, 234 42 89 A good selection of imported glassware, including Meissen from Germany, Orrefors from Sweden and Moser from Czechoslovakia. Also pure silver cutlery. Galeri Çerçeve Galip Dede Caddesi, Timarci Sokak 5, Tunel, Tel: 251 26 51; also on the Asian side, Pembegul Sokak 4, Suadiye, Tel: (216) 411 20 40, 357 44 80 Fine quality picture frames.

Istanbul Nandicrafts Centre Sultanahmet, (beside the Yesil Ev Hotel), Tel: 517 67 82 A series of craftmen's workshops in a restored medrese (religious school). Visitors can watch and buy the artisans' creations. Interesting and fun.

Krisna Çukurcuma Caddesi 42 Cukurcuma, Tel: 244 06 60 Indian handicrafls.

Levant Koleksiyon Tunel Square 8, Tunel, Tel: 293 63 33 A good selection of old postcards, books, prints and ephemera from the l9th century. May Covered Bazaar, Koltuk Kazazlar Sokak 10, Eminonu, Tel: 526 68 23; Covered Bazaar, Kolancilar Sokak 7, Eminonu, Tel: 522 56 24 Handwoven kilim covered handbags, wallets, briefcases, cushions, as well as some clothing.

Ortakoy Artists gather in Ortakoy on Sundays to display theiy handicrafts and paintings along the streets beside the Bosphorus.

Ottomania Istiklal Caddesi, Sofyali Sokak 30/32, Tunel, Beyoglu Tel: 243 2157, 243 2158 Mostly old engravings, calligraphy and maps, some rare books.

Pasabahçe Istiklal Caddesi 314, Beyoglu, Tel: 244 05 44, and in Maslak Tuykey's premier glassware maker, with retail shaps everywhere. The largest is in Maslak. Glasses, vases, pitchers, traditional blue and white stripe Cesmibulbul and porcelain tableware. Reasonable prices and great for gifts.

Rolyef Art Enterprises Galatasaray, Emir Nevruz Sokagi 16, Beyoglu, Tel: 244 04 94, 293 93 q7 Rich Turkish ornamentation, engravings, Islamic miniatures, calligraphy, gilding, marbling.

Sofa Art & Antiques swissotel The Bosphorus, 2nd floor of the shopping arcade, Macka, Tel: 259 02 27, Fax: 249 89 83 Old Turkish ceramics, miniatures, calligraphy, old prints and maps, paintings and a layge selection of authentic gifts. Open from 09.00- 21.00 every day.

Urart Abdi Ipekci Caddesi 18/1, Nisantasi, Tel: 246 7194 Swissotel, Tel: 259 02 21 Distinctive silver and gold jewellery, paintings and sculptures; a must foy lovers of beautiful objects.

Books,Cassettes and Stationery Shops

number of shops sell English, French and German books, magazines and newspapers. The mark-up on books is extremely high and the selection poor, although improving. Antiquarian bookstores, although rather costly, often have interesting texts and searching through stacks of used books can be rewarding, although a bit dusty.

ABC Istiklal Caddesi 461, Beyoglu Books and magazines in English, German, French.

Afa Istiklal Caddesi, Bekar Sokak 17/A, Beyoglu, Tel: 249 2218. A two-storey bookshop which sells its own publications and many hard to find Tuykish subjects including decoyation, horticulture etc. Afa wild order any book not in stock.

Akademi Kitabevi Valikonagi Caddesi, Akkavak Sokak 2, Nisantasi, Tel: 248 43 96 Books and magazines in English, French and German. Cassettes and CDs.

Akusta CD & MI·fi Showroom Nazmi Akbaci I,s Merkezi, 95-96, Maslak, Tel: 276 49 28 Classical, jazz, pop, rock, new age, international and ethnic music.

Aslihan Sahaflar Carsisi Galatasaray, Beyoglu Antiquarian book mayket.

Beyazit Sahaflar Carsisi On the Beyazit side of the Covered Bazaar, lined with shops selling old and new books in many languages. A lively and typical old Istanbud atmosphere, friendly shopkeepers, students, academics.

Bosphorus University Bookstore Northern campus, Hisarustu English and Turkish titLes, a good collection of reference books and magazines.

Dunya Bookstores Books and magazines in major European languages.

Tunel Istiklal Caddesi 469, Beyoglu, Tel: 24910 06

Kadikoy I,s Merkezi 10/137, Kadikoy (on the Asian side), Tel: (216) 347 79 06

Cevdetpasa Caddesi 232/1, Bebek, Tel: 265 7103

Tesvikiye Caddesi 164/3, Nisantasi, Tel: 247 05 90

Capitol Shopping Mall, Altunizade, Tel: 3911927

Narhbahçe Sokak 15, Cagaloglu, Tel: 513 50 79

Also outlets at the Hilton, Swisstel, Holiday Inn, Princess.

Eren Sofyali Sokak 34, Tunel Tel: 25128 58 Old and new art and history books, old maps, miniatures.

French/Italian/Spanish Bookstore Meselik Sokak, Sekban Han 12-14, Beyoglu, Tel: 249 00 99

German Bookstore Istiklal Caddesi 481, Beyoglu

Momer Kitabevi Yeni Carsi Caddesi 28/A, Galatasaray, Tel: 249 59 02 Great stock of books in English and a cafefor browsers.

International Book Mouse Nisbetiye Caddesi, Dr. Ihsan Aksoy Sokak 7/1, Camlik, Etiler, Tel: 257 9129 Books in English, mostly bestselleys. A good collection of children's publications and cassettes.

Karum Akkavak Sokak 19-21, Ni,santaçi Tel: 24179 88 Art books and stationery supplies, mostly imported.

Librairie de Pera Galip Dede Sokak 22, Tunel Tel: 245 49 98 One of the oldest and best antiquarian bookshops in Istanbul. A large collection of Turkish, Greek, Armenian, Arabic and European books.

Net Ramada Hotel, Laleli, Tel: 513 64 31; Galleria Shopping Mall, Ataköy, Tel: 559 09 50 Books and magazines in major European languages. Pandora Buyuk Parmakkapi Sokak 3, Beyoglu, Tel: 24516 67 An interesting selection of the newest Turkish books, postcards. Also books and magazines in English.

Remzi Kitabevi Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Basement floor No:121, Tel: 282 02 45; Rumeli Caddesi 44, Nisantasi, Tel: 234 54 75; Cagaloglu, Tel: 522 2014 A large and well-displayed selectzon of books and magazines for adults and children in English, Turkish and other languages. Popular with foreigners.

Robinson Crusoe Istiklal Caddesi 389, Tunel, Beyoglu, Tel: 293 69 68, 293 69 77 Spread on two floors, this book emporium is comfortably arranged and friendly. Has a large collection, including publications in European languages, and will order books from abroad upon individual request.

Sahaf Dumlupinar Sokak 12, Kadikoy, Tel: (216) 414 42 06 A large antiquarian book shop spread on fourfloors, on the Asian side of the city, which also has a cosy cafe.

Vakkorama Music Shop BPM Vakkorama Department Store, Rumeli Caddesi, Nisantasi Brand new store offering the latest CDs in jazz, R & B, Soul, Funk, Word Music, New Age, Underground, Garage, etc. Also plays great music from international DJs. If you can't find the books you I want, consider ordering from abroad. Two good ways to do this are:

Book Call 59 Elm Street, New Canaan, CT 06840, USA, Tel: (1) 203-96fr5470 Fax: (1) 203-96fr4329 Direct access to any US book sn print. Responsive to your needs 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call or fax your order. Gift- wrapping and worldwide mailing. Accepts Amex, Mastercard, Visa, and US checks. Ask for their catalogue, Bibliomania, an annotated listing of new hardback books in a wide variety of categories.

The Good Book Guide 91 Great Russell Street, London WClB 3PS Tel: (44) 171-580 8466 Fax: (44) 171-323 0048 A mail order service with a comprehensive, independent review magazine and a selection of the best hardback and paperback books, both fiction and non-fiction. Subscription £'17 a year' in return you yeceive six £'2 discount tokens. Effcient service.

Carpets and Kilims

Most of the main carpet shops are in or around the Covered Bazaar. But there are a few good ones outside its confines.

Antikart Istiklal Caddesi 209, Atlas Kuyumcular Carsisi Tel: 252 44 82, 252 44 85 A large collection of old and rare kilims from a connoisseur. Also ceramics, antique and ethnic jewellery, imported curiosity objects.

Hazal Hali Mecidiyekoy Koprusu Sokak 27- 29, Ortakoy, Tel: 26172 33 Carpets and kilims, tastefully displayed.

Heritage Caferiye Sokak 6/A, Sultanahmet, Tel: 513 6150, 522 95 O1 Reproductions ofantique kilims and carpets, using natural dyes.

Kilim Shop Conrad Istanbul Hotel Tel: 227 35 83 Specializing in kilims only.

Muhlis Gunbatti Perdahcilar Caddesi 48, Covered Bazaar, Tel: 51165 62, 527 09 87 Percious carpets and kilims, as well as traditional Turkis textiles such as `suzani' and `ikat'.

Ortakoy Carpets & Kilims Muallim Naci Caddesi, Yelkovan Sokak 3/3 Ortakoy. Tel· 260 58 36 A wide collection of Anatolian hand woven carpets and kilims. Works in collaboration with Adnan & Hasan from the Grand Bazaar

Pasha Kariye Mahallesi, Cami Sokak 8 Edirnekapi Tel: 534 80 71, 534 4916 Right beside the famous Kariye Museum (Chuych of Chora), this carpet "boutique" sells beautiful handmade rugs and kilims.

Punto Gazi Sinanpasa Sokak 17, Vezirhan, Çagaloglu, Tel: 51108 53, Fax: 513 97 47 A beautiful shop located in a 17th century caravanserai building. Fine selection of anttque and nei carpets gathered from around thc country.

Sengor Carpet Mouse Abdi Ipekci Caddesi, Feyzi Feyzioglu Sokak 1/2, Nisantasi Tel: 247 9170, 240 72 23 Mim Kemal Oke Caddesi 9, Nisantasi, Tel: 225 46 40, 225 46 41 One of the oldest and best carpet deaLers in town.

Sisko Osman Halicilar Caddesi 49, Covered Bazaar, Tel: 52617 08; and Zincirli Han 15, Covered Bazaar Tel: 526 72 85 A favourite offoreign yesidents.

Department Stores and Shopping Centres Akmerkez Etiler, Tel: 282 O170 A giant, very luxurious shopping mail which offers everything a shopping pro would need, from exclusive internationaL brands (including Ralph Lauren) to eateries and a superfood market, to cinemas. Open seven days a week, 10.00-22.00

Carrefour Icerenkoy, Tel: (216) 445 0815 A shopping mall offering around 100 shops and fastfood outlets, on the Asian side.

Carsi Maslak, Tel: 285 05 20 Popular department store selling clothes and shoes foy men, women and children at reasonable prices, including discounted items from well-known brands. Houseware, gifts and a good skin-care and cosmetics department. A good place to buy toys which are often overpriced elsewhere. Fast food restaurant on the premises. Always crowded.

Galleria Atakoy, Tel: 559 95 60 The first modern shopping mall of the city. A Large collection of shops, including the outlets of most major chains. Open every day.

Pabetland Buyukdere Caddesi 57/1, Maslak, Tel: 285 2185 Department store. Stylish clothes and housewares, some imported. A pleasant in-stoye cafe.

Fabrics and Home Furnishings

You will find a row of upholstery and drapery shops in Harbiye along Halaskargazi Caddesi. Many shops will also make up and install curtains, shades and drapes. For brass curtain rods, many of the brass shops around Sishane and the Galata Tower will make them to order. Other places to discover:

Aykut Hamzagil Abidei Hurriyet Caddesi 13, Osmanbey, Tel: 2312115 Outstandingly beautiful, locally made upholstery and drapery fabrics in pure linen and cotton.

Bahcesaray Faikpasa Sokak 41, Çukurcuma, Tel: 25195 87, 245 74 54 Wooden garden furniture.

Beymen Mome Arts Rumeli Caddesi 81, Nisantasi, Tel: 24112 73; Halaskargazi Caddesi 230, ,Sisli, Tel: 230 09 61; also at Akmerkez Shopping Mall in Etiler, and in Ciftehavuzlar (Asian side), Tel: (216) 41133 78 Tasteful home decoration, furniture and accessories.

Creative Bath Valikonagi Caddesi, Prof. Dr. Orhan Ersek Sokak 3, Nisantasi, Tel: 247 30 46. Great selection of bathroom accessories. Ideal giJds.

Dorya Home Krizantem Sokak 15,1 Levent, Tel: 278 54 41 Regency-style mahogany furnitures, upholstery, wall papers and accessories.

Kanape (Showroom) Tesvikiye Caddesi, Atiye Sokak, Varol Apt 73, Tel: 2614619; (Headquarters) Matbuat Sokak No:11/13, Esentepe, Tel: 275 67 32, 212 04 92/93-96, Fax: 275 67 43 Producers offine furniture and a wide range of upholstery fabrics, wallpaper and table top accessories for the home.

Koleksiyon Mobilya Haci Osman Bayin 1, Kefelikoy, Buyukdere, Tel: 22313 20 Modern and post-modern furniture, well-designed and locally made, displayed in the extensive grounds of a converted factory building.

Kulp Store Bagdat Caddesi 53/2fr27 (next to Motta Patisserie), Kiziltoprak(Asian side), Tel: (216) 418 08 50 A unique door handle shop offering an extensive variety.

Open Sesame Prof. O Ersek Sokak 52/1, Tesvikiye, Tel: 248 86 24 An artist-run home decoration and accessories store. Hand-made pillows, patchwork sofas, coffee tables etc. Open every day, except Sunday,10.00-19.00

Room to Go E5 Highway, Mavi Evler, Amiral Orbay Caddesi 1, Kucukyali (Asian side), Tel: (216) 417 35 27 Complete home furnishings from this American furniture store chain.

Sivasli Istanbul Yazmacisi Yaglikcilar Sokak 57, Covered Bazaar, Tel: 526 77 48 Colourful, hand-woven and hand- embroidered textile pieces, both old and new.

Vakko Istiklal Caddesi 123-125, Beyoglu On the ground floor, an extensive selection of upholstery and drapery fabrics, both local and imported, plus a decoration service. Upstairs, elegant dress fabrics.

Fashion Istanbul's wonderful clothing shops are clustered in the uptown areas of Tesvikiye, Nisantasi, Osmanbey, Sisli, Beyoglu, and, on the Asian side, Bagdat Caddesi and Bahariye Caddesi. Quality is uniformly good and prices are affordable. Keep an eye out for the twice- yearly indirim (sales) starting in July and January.

Artisan Zafer Sokak 5, Nisantasi Tel: 234 37 40, 23164 33 Original designs. Embroidered silk and lace clothes for women.

Benetton Rumeli Caddesi 16/A, Nisantasi, Tel: 230 84 94, 247 9141; Akmerkez, Etiler, Tel: 282 02 37; and many other locations. locally made to Benetton specifications by the Beymen Group. Beymen Halaskargazi Caddesi 230, Osmanbey, Tel: 230 09 61 (8 lines) Istiklal Caddesi 2/1, Beyoglu Tel: 249 49 95; Rumeli Caddesi 81, Nisantasi, Tel: 24112 73 Superb quality Tuykish-made men's and women's clothing, shoes and accessories. Excellent service. Beymen Mega Store Ak Merkez Shopping Mall, Etiler Tel: 282 03 80, 282 03 99 Beymen's latest branch at the Ak Merkez Shopping Mall. The `mega store" is so-called for lts wide range of products from clothing and cosmetics to stationery and furniture. Shopping pros say this is Turkey's answer to Saks Fifth Avenue.

BM Club Istiklal Caddesi, Vakif Gocek Ham, Beyoglu, Tel: 249 49 95 Casual elegnnce from the Beymen Group for the young and sporty. David People Ak Merkez Shopping Mall, Etiler, Tel: 282 05 31 Young Tuykish fashion and great cotton underwear.

DKNY Donna Karan New York Bostan Sokak (Karakol Sokak) 4/1, Tesvikiye, Tel: 230 66 86, 240 32 92 Exclusive women's and men's wear boutique.

Derishow Bagdat Caddesi 381, Suadiye (on the Asian side), Tel: (216) 360 5179 Nisantasi, Tel: 2311510; Akmerkez, Tel: 282 04 08 Stylish Turkish fashion and leather wear.

Dreams Designer Mim Kemal Oke Caddesi 11/2, Nisantasi, Tel: 23148 65, 23156 13; also Bagdat Caddesi, Ozlu Apt. 412/3, Suadiye, Tel: (216) 41160 37 Top quality women's wear from Europe, including Givency, Ronit Zilha, Moygan, Dolce Vita, Suraboya, Tadashi, Carling; and Kamosho.

Edwards of Misar Yahya Kemal Caddesi 36, Rumelihisan, Tel: 263 6601 Exclusive gentlemen's clothing imported from England.

Endican Bostan Sokak 7, Tesvikiye Tel: 2612110 Italian men's and women's wear

Foli Abdi Ipekçi Caddesi 55/A, Tesvikiye Tel: 2411618, 248 48 03 Women's clothing for large sizes. Tasteful and fashionable designs.

Gazellini Abdi Ipekçi Caddesi 2, Nisantasi, Tel: 233 37 49 A large stoye selling over 40 different international fashion and cosmetic brands.

Hugo Boss Valikonagi Caddesi 81, Nisantasi, Tel: 240 48 08, 225 09 90 Top quality men's wear Lacoste Rumeli Caddesi 52/A, NiSantasi, Tel: 248 86 61; Bagdat Caddesi 316/5, Erenkoy (on the Asian side), Tel: (216) 360 87 68; and Galleria Shopping Mall, Atakoy A local division of the famous brond; much of the merchandise sold here is made in Turkey and costs less than you would expect.

Lee Cooper Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Etiler, Tel: 282 04 61; Galleria Shopping Mall, Ataköy, Tel: 6611145 All the old favourites. The first foreign brand of jeans to be produced in Turkey under license.

Limon Rumeli Caddesi 26/28, Osmanbey, Tel: 234 3314; and several other locations Good quality, sporty fashion for the young.

Marks & Spencer Valikonagi Caddesi (on the corner of Abdi Ipekci Caddesi), Nisantasi, Tel: 233 35 26 Recently opened and already extremely popular MaxMara Tesvikiye Caddesi 73, Macka Tel: 259 65 50 Elegant Italian designs.

Mudo Collection Tesvikiye Caddesi 143, Nisantasi, Tel: 225 29 41-50; Mudo City, Akmerkez Shopping Mall (2nd floor), Etiler, Tel: 282 04 73; Carrefour Shopping Centre, Erenkoy One of Turkey's best fashion chains. Stylish, top quality men's and women's casual clothing, and home accessories.

Mudo City Rumeli Caddesi 58, NiSantasi, Tel: 2313643 The latest department store from one of the best fashion companies in Turkey. Spread on 8 floors, offering women's, men's and children's wear, and home accessories.

OXXO Galleria Shopping Mall, No: 346- 348, Atakoy, Tel: 560 36 39; Istiklal Caddesi No:146, Tel: 249 42 63; Akmerkez Shopping Mall, 358, Etiler, Tel: 282 04 25; Capitol Shopping Mall, No: 63, Altunizade, Tel: (216) 39119 00; Carrefour Shopping Mall, No:15 B1, Kozyatagi, Tel: (216) 380 11 10; General Sukru Kanatli Sokak 2, Balcirkoy, Tel: 542 99 32 Inexpenslve and cheerful clothing for the young.

Pierre Cardin Baytar Ahmet Sokak, Sair Nigar IS Merkezi 42/1, Osmanbey, Tel: 23 013 57, 234 03 31 Brances in: Ak Merkez, Etiler, Tel: 282 O153 Capitol Shopping Centre, Altunizade, Tel: 39118 48, 39118 49 Exclusive imported men's fashion and accessories.

Polo Garage Sakayik Sokak 47/2, Nisantasi Tel: 231 51 82 High quality, elegant clothes foy women.

Silk & Cashmere Ak Merkez Shopping Mall, Etiler, Tel: 282 02 35; Galleria Shopping Mall, Atakoy, Tel: 559 4516 A local point for tourists and the foreign community in Turkey for its exclusive and affordable cashmere and silk. Women's and men's wear. Shops also in Carrefour, Izmir Ankara, Zurich, Beylin, New York.

Vakko Istiklal Caddesi 123-125, Beyoglu Tel: 25140 92; Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Etiler, Tel: 282 06 95 (4 lines) The oldest and one of the most elegant fashion houses in Istanbul. Beautiful scarves in original designs. Has a very good fabric department, cafe and art gallery, and a discount outlet in Meyter Branch at Akmerkez Shopping Mall.

Vakkorama Osmanll Sokak 13, Taksim, Tel: 251 15 71; Rumeli Caddesi 80, Nisantasi, Tel: 224 40 30; also at Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Etiler, Tel: 282 09 65-70 A young heayted spin-off of Vakko.

Yargici Valikonagi Caddesi 30, NiSantasi Tel: 2252912 The inventive patterns and colors in Yargici's men's and women's collection are all designed to harmonize. The label is best known foy its cottons, sweaters and men's shirts.

Food Charcuteries

The chaycuteries are Istanbul's answer to the New York delicatessen. Most of them sell cheeses, cured meats, sausages, prepared mezes and salads. Many make up sandwiches to go and sell wine and spirits.

Abant Ciftligi Valikonagi Caddesi 113, NiSantasi Tel: 247 17 65 A wide selection of Turkish and imported items including delicious sandwich filings.

Delicatessen Adnan Saygun Caddesi 17/1, Ulus-Etiler, Tel: 265 60 51 A large selection of charcuterie products, sandwiches and cooked dishes to take away. Has home delivery.

Konyali Emlak Kredi Carsisi, Levent Tel: 268 26 54; and Sirkeci (opposite the train station) Delicious, traditional charcuterie. Good hot food is served in an adjoining restaurant.

Santral Cevdetpasa Caddesi 22, Bebek Tel: 263 63 52 Quality charcuterie with a very good wine department.

Sütte Balikpazan, Galatasaray, Beyoglu Tel: 293 92 92; Etiler, Tel: 263 66 56 A city tradition, whose owneys are of Polish origin. The original is in Balikpazari; the rest are franchised. Sütte carries pork products such as sliced bacon which may be hard to find elsewheye.

Food Markets

Many neighbourhoods have weekly open-air markets selling cheap fresh fruit and vegetables straight from the farm. For example, the market in Cihangir is on Tuesdays. In Etiler it is on Thursdays, and in the Ihlamur area of Besiktas, on Saturdays and Wednesdays. Goods from the open-air merchants are generally cheaper than anything you can find in a grocery store; strolling the colourful, bustling markets while vendors call out advertisements for their ware is one of the highlights of life in Turkey.

Besiktas Carsisi A small square filled with stands selling fresh produce and fish. The simple restaurants surrounding the market serve tasty seafood lunches. The sauted fresh anchovies and balik koftesi should not be missed. Shops in the vicinity have a good selection of local cheeses, olives and honey. Several good bakeries.

The Egyptian or Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi) Eminonu The famous, exotic food market selling spices, dried fruits, as well as towels, slippers, baskets and some jewellery. Outside, to the left, there is a wonderful flower and bird mayket.

Eminonu Pazari To the right of Misir CarSisi (Spice Bazaar) A colourful, crowded market of fresh fruit and vegetables, fih, liver and other items including local cheeses, olives and pastirma, all enhanced by the aroma of coffee roasted at Kuru Kahveci Mehmet Efendi, the best coffee maker in town. Very little imported merchandise.

Galatasaray Fish Market (Balikpazar) Istiklal Caddesi, Galatasaray, Beyoglu Although the word means `Fish market', Balakpazari is much more than that. It is a daily market carrying wonderful produce including hard-to-find items like tere (garden cress), Beluga caviar; excellent bread and breadsticks; creme fraiche poured from a bucket. Also on sale are piles of fresh mushrooms; fresh ducks, geese, turkey (so named because at one time Europeans thought it came from this country) and quail; regional cheeses; farm eggs; herbs and spices; espyesso roast coffee beans. The market is home to a Sütte charcuterie.

Supermarkets Korona Alkent, Etiler A favourite of foreign residents who line up here on holidays to purchase such rare items as turkey, which is small in size but very tasty.

Makro Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Etiler, Tel: 2820311; Abdi Ipekçi Caddesi 24, Nisantasi, Tel: 248 94 55; and Kurucesme Truly a macro and smart supermarket, where you can find some rare delicacies.

MMM Migros Sisli, Tel: 246 64 80 Maslak, Tel: 285 23 50 A large, comprehensive market with more or less competitive prices. Good for stocking up on essentials; watch for the wine sales. Of the imports there are some nice housewares; most of the food items are locally manufactured. Other branches are located in Atakoy, Levent, Gayrettepe, Kadakoy, Merter Saskinbakkal, and a recently opened store as far out as Pendik on the Asian side. Soecialifv shovs Asadur Zorikoglu [coffee) Birinci Caddesi 94, Arnawtköy Tel: 263 58 99 A small shop selling fine Turkish coffee.

Asri Tursucu (pickles) Firozaga Cami Karsisi, Cihangir, Tel: 244 47 24, 25140 76 Selling delicious pickles of almost every fruit and vegetable since 1938.

Bunsa (spices) Galatasaray Fish Market 26, Beyoglu Best quality herbs, spices, jams.

Kurt Balikcilik [fish) Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Makro Super Centre, Etiler, Tel: 282 03 10 Seasonal fih, always fresh.

Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi (coffee) Tahmis Caddesi 66, Eminonu Tel: 511 42 62 On one side of Misir Carsisi (literally corn bazaar but known as Egyptian, or Spice Bazaar), an Istanbul institution for fragrant, finely ground Turkish coffee.

Tiryaki (coffee) Sair Nigar Sokak, NiSantasi Espresso coffee beans, tea, dried fruits and nuts.

Urfa Pazari (caviar) Misir Carsisi (Egyptian Bazaar), No: 26, Eminonu, Tel: 526 11 18, 512 86 08 This is the only company and retail store that imports caviar legally. Stocks a good selection of fine caviars, as well as other foodstuffs.

Vefa Bozacici (boza drink) Ataturk Bulvari 146/B, Aksaray Tel: 527 66 08 Established in 1876 and still serving good boza-a special Turkish drink made from fermented millet.

Sweets Bebek Badem Ezmesi Cevdet Pasa Caddesi 238/l, Bebek, Tel: 263 59 84 Established in 1904 and still making wonderful almond and pistachio fondant (a sweetmeat similar to marzipan).

Cikolata Evi Bagdat Caddesi 304, Caddebostan, Tel: 346 65 20 A highly tempting pick'n mix store dedicated to top quality chocolates. Delicatessen

Hyatt Regency Istanbul, Taskisla Caddesi, Taksim Tel: 225 7000 Wide and tempting range of cakes, gateaux and handmade chocolates. Dolce Yaliboyu Cad., Engin Apt. 8, Arnavutkoy, Tel: 265 09 02, 265 58 74, Fax: 257 72 99 Dolce makes and designs spectacular cakes to order A sweet alternative present to flowers to celebrate birthdays or special events.

Haci Bekir Istiklal Caddesi 129, Beyoglu Tel: 245 13 75, Eminonu, Tel: 522 06 66, 522 14 61 Famous for its Turkish delight.

Inci Istiklal Caddesi 124/2, Beyoglu Tel: 243 24 12 Cakes and other sweets. Known for their memorable profiteroles.

Patisserie Cafe Marmara The Marmara Istanbul Hotel, Taksim, Tel: 25146 96 Best quality homemade cakes a chocolates. All major cards.

Patisserie Divan Akcam Sokak 28, Levent, Tel: 282 84 92 Divan Hotel, Taksim, Tel: 248 3173; Moda Caddesi, Kadikoy, Tel: 338 00 46 Splendid Hotel onu, Buyukada Tel: (216) 382 46 58 19 Mayis Caddesi, Golden Plaza Migros ici 2 Kat, Sisli, Tel: 247 30 95 Quality cakes and chocolates. Famous for marron glace, roccocco (an ice cream cake) and foret noir. Pleasant tea rooms.

Patisserie Gazebo Ciragan Palace Hotel Kempin Besiktas, Tel: 258 33 77. Great view of the Bosphorus and serving delicious pastries.

Patisserie Gezi/ Taksim Inonu Caddesi 5/1, Taksim Tel: 25174 30 Excellent cakes and handmade chocolates and pralines.

Patisserie Gezi/ Etiler Nispetiye Cad, Petrol Sitesi, 7 Blok, Etiler, Tel: 282 82 20/2 Recently opened off shoot from popular Taksim branch. Excel cakes, chocolates and handmade truffles.

Patisserie Monet Conrad Istanbul, Besiktas Tel: 227 30 00 Delicious French pastries, sweets chocolates for five o'clock tea. 10.00-21.00. All major cards.

Patisserie Opera Hotel Mercure Istanbul (ex- Pullman Etap), Tepebasi, Tel: 25146 46 Famousfoy its Tuykish Deligt well as wonderful chocolates.

Patisserie Renaissanc Istanbul Polat Renaissance Hotel Sahil Caddesi, Yesilyurt, Tel: 663 17 00 Good Danish crozssants, Swiss chocolate pralines, cakes and cookies. All fresh items are sold at half price after 20.00

Saray Tesvikiye Caddesi 137/A, Nisantasi Such delights as Turkish milk puddings, baklava and su böregifor breakfast.

Swiss Gourmet Shop Swissotel the Bosphorus, Macka, Tel: 259 O1 O1 Delicacies to awaken the most dormant tastebuds. A variety of cream cakes and fruit tarts, plus the exquisite Bosphorus Torte. Sandwiches and strong coffee. Half price afdeysundown.

Vakko Patisserie Istiklal Caddesi 123-125, Beyoglu Tel: 25140 92; Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Etiler, Tel: 282 06 95 (4 lines) Purveyors of the famous Vakko chocolates. A wide assortment all presented in exquisite packaging. Ideal for gifts.

Yeni Inci Profiterol Nispetiye Caddesi 11, Etiler, Tel: 257 32 28; also in Atakoy, Tel: 560 50 59, and Yesilkoy, Tel: 663 62 67 No yelation to the popular Beyoglu branch, but nevertheless serving great prof teroles, sticky cakes and lemonade. Has home delivery.

Jeweller , Watches & Accessories Antikart Istiklal Caddesi 209, inside the Atlas Cinema Passage, Atlas Kuyumcular Carsisi, Beyoglu, Tel: 252 44 82, 252 44 85 Beautiful silver and ethnic jewellery, some of it antique. Also a large collection of kilims.

Diamond Valikonagi Caddesi, Demir Han 30/B, Tel: 246 43 00 Akmerkez, Alt Carsisi, Tel: 282 02 85; Galleria, Ataköy Sahil Yolu, Tel: 559 76 34 Stocks a wide range of exclusive jewellery, and a collection offine watches, all made by Diamond. This highly respected outlet has been serving Istanbul foy ovey 30 yeas.

Mücevher Jewellery Rumeli Caddesi, Villa Ishani, 4-6, Nisantasi, Tel: 24134 61, 24178 90; Galleria Shopping Mall, No: DGRO 362, Tel: 559 35 42, 559 37 93 Gold rings, earrings, necklaces, cuff links made with oy without precious stones, as well as diamond jewellery. Only one piece is produced of each original design. In business since 1983.

Solitaire Akmerkez Shopping Mall 226, Etiler, Tel: 282 04 53 Original jewellery designs made with 18-caratgold, and diamond. Only a single piece is created from each design. Only retail shopping.

Tektas Ak Merkez Shopping Mall, 227, Etiler, Tel: 282 04 71; and Abdi Ipekci Caddesi, Altin Sokak, Nisantasi, Tel: 225 06 40 Fine Swiss watches and jewellery.

Urart Abdi Ipekci Caddesi 18/1, Nisantasi, Tel: 246 7194; Swissotel, Tel: 260 54 59 The delightful silver earrings, bracelets, rings and tableware items of this famous establishment often use ancient Anatolian designsfor inspiration. Also has an art gallery.

Vacheron Constantin Ciragan Caddesi, Ciragan Palace, Block B, No: 3, Besiktas, Tel: 259 25 45; Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Basement Floor, No:116, Etiler, Tel: 282 08 57; Valikonagi Caddesi, KoSe Apt. 101/1, Nisantasi, Tel: 23190 35, 246 00 30 This oldest Swiss watch company dating from the l7th century is now represented with a large collection in Istanbul. Their gold and diamond-decorated watches are all handmade and produced in small numbers.

Ziya Halaskargazi Caddesi 74-78, Harbiye, Tel: 246 55 92 Fine jewellery makers serving exclusive customers since 1965. Ethnic and moden collections designed in-house with top quality diamonds.

Leather Delta Ankara Highway, Kücükyali junction, Inönü Caddesi 4, Kucukyali, (on the Asian side), Tel: (216) 388 66 10 A large selection of quality but inexpensive leather wear, shoes and accessories.

Desa Akmerkez, Tel: 282 0413; Capitol Shopping Mall, Altunizade, Tel: (216) 343 07 59; Carrefour Shopping Centre, Erenkoy; Galleria, Tel: 559 96 20; Halaskargazi Caddesi 216, Osmanbey, Tel: 233 22 31; Istiklal Caddesi 140, Beyoglu, Tel: 243 37 86; Swissotel, Macka, Tel: 259 0213; Beneath the Merit Antique Hotel, Laleli, Tel: 528 0018 Top quality Turkish leather wear and accessories foy men and women. Modeyn and elegant designs. (Also repyesentatsves of Samsonite.)

Kuzu Prof. Muammer Aksoy Caddesi 17, Zeytinburnu, Tel: 547 40 95 (3 lines) Offers a large range of ready-to- wear leather and suede garments. Modello Nispetiye Caddesi 2/1, Etiler Tel: 257 74 65 Stylish leatherwear including some beautiful suede jackets.

Sultan Deri Iskele Caddesi 14, Beylerbeyi Tel: 32147 20 A very large variety of leather wear.

Shoes and Bags Caractere Mim Kemal Oke Caddesi 1/B, Nisantasi, Tel: 224 96 95 Very elegant and comfortable shoes from a pretty boutique. Sells exclusive intenational shoe brands such as Free Lance, Mosquitos, Stephane Kelian, Montana, Parallele and Joseph Azagury. Also bags and belts.

Desa Halaskargazi Caddesi 216, Osmanbey, Tel: 233 22 31 Istiklal Caddesi 140, Beyoglu, Tel: 243 37 86; also in Akmerkez, Galleria and Capitol shopping malls; and in Swissotel and Merit Antique Hotel. Top quality shoes and bags for men and women, made with premium grade leathers. Functional designs and expert craftmanship. (Also representatives of Samsonite.)

Divaresse Rumeli Caddesi 81, NisantaSi Tel: 231 86 98 Italian designs.

Elle Rumeli Caddesi 12, NiSantaSi Tel: 240 23 77 A large collection appealing to a youthful clientele.

Ertugrul Valikonagi Caddesi 101/A, Nisantasi, Tel: 240 30 52; also at Ak Merkez Shopping Mall, Etiler Chic and durable shoes for women.

Motic Tesvikiye Caddesi 135/1, Nisantasi, Tel: 247 74 55; Halaskargazi Caddesi, Osmanbey, Tel: 234 26 00; also at Ak Merkez Shopping Mall Big selection of stylish shoes foy women and men. Quality handbags. Opened a `shopping bay' servingfree tea, coffee etc. for weary shoppers.

May Covered Bazaar, Koltuk Kazaslar Sokak 10, Eminonu, Tel: 526 68 23; Covered Bazaar, Kolancilar Sokak 7, Eminonu. Very pretty, home-designed handbags, wallets, briefcases and backpacks made with handwoven kilims. Also some clothing.

Seyitagaogullari Tavukhane Sokak 30, Sultanahmet Tel: 51812 95 This shop makes use of kilims and flat weave rugs to cyeate shoes and bags. Sipahi Mair Nigar Sokak, Nisantasi Classical styles for women. Excellent quality.

VICTORIA - Garden State Attractions and Touristic Centers

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VICTORIA - Garden State tour and travel guide, hotels, cheap flights

Victoria is the smallest but most varied of the mainland states, with a history that is closely bound up with the 19th-century search for gold. White settlers arrived at Port Phillip Bay in the centre of the southern coast only 160 years ago - and three-quarters of the state's population remains centred around the vast bay. The rest of the state is scattered with picturesque rural communities stretching from the temperate rainforests in the far east, across the majestic alpine areas of the central High Country to the western desert regions of the Mallee.

VICTORIA - Garden State Attractions

Ballarat
It's a historical place. Back to 1850s gold diggers from Europe, China and the Americas who trudged up from the coast through the through the Pentland Hills to reach the elevated area known to the Aborigines as "Ballarat" or "resting area". Not evryone struck it rich, but the gold here was more than enough to build this classic Victorian town. The main tourist attraction is the theme park reconstruction of the Sovereign Hill goldmining township, and the towns historical connections with the Eureka Stockade Rebellion.

Gippsland
This region, containing over 20 National and State Parks, sweep from Phillip Island and down to the spectacular scenery of Wilsons Promontory and the Gippsland Lakes.

Gippsland Lakes

The Gippsland Lakes are Australia's largest inland waterway; a maze of inlets, islands and retreat villages. The Lakes are a boating wonderland for motor yachts and hire craft.
Great Ocean Road
Spectacular coastal scenery is to be found along the Great Ocean Road. Torquay to Warrnambool and beyond to Victoria's weatern border, the drive itself is an adventure. The 12 Apostles, standing proundly against the ocean waves, are stunning examples of Nature's creative art of erosion.
Melbourne
It was recently awarded the title of the "world's most liveable city" at the conclusion of a worldwide survey. With a reputation for fine restaurants, better music, more theatres, progressive social legistration. It is Australia's second largest city. A place of quality for both visitor and resident alike.
Phillip Island
The chief attraction of Phillip Island is the famous penguin parade, the regular nightly return of the fairy penguins to nest among the grasses in the dunes.
The Grampians
The big attraction for this area lies in the Grampians National Park - a unique combination of striking visual scenery, energetic climbing and bushwalking, plus the mystery of the Koori dreaming legends. The spectacular rock formations are the result of hundreds of millions of years of driving wind and pounding surf. The wildflowers, many of which bloom throughout the year, blanket the area in beautiful colour.
Wilsons Promontory
Wilsons Prom's superb bushwalking, dramatic coastal scenery, beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife have made it one of the most popular national parks in Australia.

TASMANIA - The Apple Isle Attractions and Touristic Centers

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Tasmania tour and travel guide, hotels, cheap flights
Tasmania is the only Australian state that is not part of the mainland. It is also the smallest state and has the lowest population. Originally a convict settlement known as Van Diemen's Land it is one of the first areas of Australia to be colonized by Europeans. This combination makes Tasmania one of the most historic and tranquil areas of the country , add the large areas of untouched wilderness that exist throughout the state and you have the perfect tourist destination.

Tasmania Attractions

General Information
General Information about Tasmania. This includes such details as some statistics about the state, some history and some useful information for travellers such as car hire prices.
Central Tasmania
Go bushwalking or, in winter, skiing.Go trout fishing in the mountain streams, go to Lake Pedder and the Rivers. If you like the great outdoors, Central Tasmania is THE place to go.

East Coast
Remote and sparsely populated the east coast of Tasmania is the location of a number of National Parks. You can go whale spotting at Freycinet National Park near Coles Bay or visit the East Coast Birdlife and Animal Park at Bicheno.

Hobart
Tasmania's largest city and the home to many places of interest. Many historical sites dating back to the convict days as well as numerous museums. Tours of the Cadbury Chocolate Factory, Cascade Brewery and the Tasmanian Distillery are available. High rollers may choose to visit the casino. Alternatively you may just want to relax on a guided tour of the town or a boat cruise along the Derwent River.

Launceston
The second largest city in Tasmania, the 'Garden City' has much to offer. All tastes are catered for with activities ranging from visits to Penny Royal World or to Cataract Gorge and Trevallyn Dam.Cycling tours and coach tram tours are available and the casino is a favorite of travellers.

Southern Tasmania and The Tasman Peninsula
one of the earliest areas settled by Europeans, Tasmania's south has many historical sites including Port Arthur on the Tasman Peninsula. You can also visit one of the many national parks in the region.

West Coast
Travel down the Gordon River, go jet boating , rafting or even fishing.Also come and see the Pioneer and Mining Museum at Zeehan and the Mt Lyell mine at Queenstown.

Tilos Greece Tour and Travel Guide Hotels Flights

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Tilos Greece Tour and Travel Guide Hotels Flights

How to get there

BY AIR (Via Athens) :

You can fly from Athens to Rhodes or from Athens to Cos ( it takes 40 min) and vice-versa. Then you go on either from Rhodes by ship. (The trip lasts 3,30 h.) or you can take the ship from Cos as it comes back from Patmos island. If you are in Rhodes, ask for information at the Port Police (Tel. 27690)
BY SEA:

Daily departures from Piraeus at 12:45 a.m. with the ships of D.A.N.E Sea Line. But you have to stop and change ship at Cos or Rhodes.
If you want to go to Tilos directly without changing a ship, there is a departure once a week from Piraeus. The trip lasts 18 hours.

General and Useful information

Tilos is 64 sq. km in area and has a population of 300 with a number of small villages like Gera, Roukouni, Agriosykia, Mikro Chorio, Misargia, Kato Choria, Scafi, Megalo Chorio, Livadia, only the last two are inhabited.

TILOS’ POLICE STATION:

Tel. 44222 (Livadia area)
MEDICAL SERVICE:

Tel. 44210 ( the doctor speaks English and Italian)
POST OFFICE - TELEPHONES - TELEGRAMS:

You can be served at Megalo Chorio, but mostly at Livadia.
TRANSPORT SERVICE:

From Livadia to Megalo Chorio by bus or taxi. When you get a taxi the price is not fixed, but you can make a deal with the driver. You can also have a tour all around Tilos by a small ship.
BEACHES:

Mile-long beach in Livadia, stony at village end, shingle with sandy patches at the far end. Several other isolated coves accessible by boat and by walking. Sandy beach at Eristos (about 10 km from Livadia). Mile-long beach in Lethra, Agios Apostolos and Plaka (at Megalo Chorio)

SIGHT - SEEEING

MEGALO CHORIO: It is the capital of Tilos since the ancient times, built within the fortress and round it on the slopes of the mountain. The church of Archangel Michael was built then just outside the Hellenistic walls.

Big silver icons from the church of Taxiarchis in the castle were carried here. It’s worth seeing the wood-carved iconostasis with the pulpit and throne, works of mid 19th century. Inside and round Megalo Chorio there are numerous little 15th century churches with fine fresco-Paintings.

AGIOS ANTONIOS: A small port on the NE part of the gulf, with a few houses, a restaurant and a hotel. The most unusual thing to see is the "beach Rocks" on the coast with human skeletons dating from the 5th century B.C.

PLAKA: 3 km to the left of Agios Antonios. We get to a beautiful beach and the Plaka estate which belonged to the monastery of St. Panteleimon, which is 2 km from Plaka. It’s a road along the edge of a precipice leads to a fantastic scenery almost at the top of the mountain. Sunset is a sensational sight from up there!

COMMUNITY OF KREMASTI - RODOS

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With the corresponding document we inform you that the Community of Rhodes is the largest Community of the island of Rhodes with approximately 5.000 residents.
It is situated in the northwest side of the island and in the countershaft of Rhodes - Airport and it is 12km from the town of Rhodes and 3km far from the Airport. It is also a transporting node that connects the entire north side of the island with the city of Rhodes and the airport with the east side through the new provincial road.

Religion and Folklore events in Kremasti

It is from the prettiest Communities of Rhodes, its center is 700m far from the sea, offering beautiful and cheap touring lodgings, all kinds of shops for tourists, a verdant scenery and it is connected with the town of Rhodes through the frequent urban means of transport.

The Community of Kremasti takes up space from the ancient Ialysias.
The Castle of the Kremasti has been built since the age of the Knights of Rhodes and was the residence of the great magician. It is located on a small hill in the center of the settlement and its name is said to come either from the fact that the old built-up area overhangs around the Castle or through the paraphrase of the great magician "Grand Maestri".

A play with students of Kremasti

In the Community of Kremasti the majestic Temple of the Assumption predominates, that feasts in the 15th of August and the nine days after the funeral of Virgin Mary, that represents the Pandodecanesian Worship and the religious celebration which lasts from the 1st till the 23rd of August.

During the same period, approximately from 10 to 23 of August the Panhellenic Handicrafts’ Exhibition of Kremasti takes place in special installations.
Sumptuous cultural manifestations take place in the new year's day, the Epiphany the period of Easter and the 15th of August.

Religion and Folklore events in Kremasti

Click to Zoom in

The residents on their majority work on touring jobs and a small amount of them with the Agriculture.

Businesses of this Community

BABEL CAFE Cafe
"DOMA BAR" - "ROOF TOPS" CAFE- BAR
ESMERALDA HOTEL HOTEL APARTMENTS
GALINI GARDEN RESTAURANT - CAFE BAR
INTERNATIONAL RENT A CAR
KOALA Bar - Restaurant
"KOUKIA SMARAGDI & SONS" QUALITY CLOTHING
LOBBY CLUB CLUB
MELODY PALACE MUSIC HALL
PEGASUS RESTAURANT
PELEKANOS HOUSE RESTAURANT, CAFE-BAR

Gennadi Rhodos Greece Tour and Travel Guide

2010-05-17T00:29:00.000-07:00

General Information about Gennadi Rhodos

Where today is situated the village Gennadi, in the ancient years the " Pedieons’ " Municipality existed that is mentioned by the archaeologist Bligerpege. The domain of Lindos had twelve municipalities on the island and at least five more in the opposite Mikra Asia.

Hiller another famous archaeologist, asserts that the " Pedieons’ " Municipality was located between the coast of the village of Asklipiou and the beach of Gennadi. The other municipalities of Lindos were the " Ladarmions’ " municipality, the " Vrasions’ ", the " Kattavions’ ", the "Lindopolitons’ ", the "Lamindions’ ", the "Pagions’ ", the "Netideons’ ", the "Clasions’ " and the "Argions’ ", including the " Voulidons’ " and the " Driytons’ " municipality.

The entire area of Gennadi is like an open museum. Shells, shards, relics everywhere that proclaim a thousand-year-old civilization in the area. There, near the today's village of Vati, is the " Kamyndions’ " municipality of Aindias.

The exquisite village of Gennadi with the good-natured and hospitable inhabitants took its name from the medieval squire Gennadi. During the Middle Ages next to Gennadi were located the villages of "Tha", "Evgalles", "Gefania" that nowadays do not exist.

The word "Gefania", derives from the word ‘Difania’ meaning that there existed a temple of Jupiter ( ‘Dias’ in greek ) who worked wonders.

These small villages ruined from the invasion of the Ottomans, just as the enactments of the Knights inform us (1309-1522 AC).

In Gennadi, there is the temple of Saint Anastasia the Roman that dates from the 6th century and in its interior there are Hagiographies. Nowadays, the hospitable and courteous Gennadinoi are on the borderline of yesterday and today. Yesterday the village was unknown and "off the map", today is the heart and the center of tourism in the eastern side of the island.

Our village is only 64 km far from the town of Rhodes. Its natural gifts are the mountain and the exquisite limpid beaches. It offers Hotels, pensions and lodgings, three restaurants on the beach, five restaurants in the village, five bars and three night-clubs.

The prices for the above accommodation and for the shops are satisfactory for the visitors. There is a police station, a post office, a community clinic, an ambulance for emergency incidents and daily transport with the K.T.E.L. for the town of Rhodes.

Come and visit Gennadi with all its natural, insuperable beauties and its history.

Gennadi has a rich cultural heritage which, from generation to generation, sustains till today.

The police station is built from Italians with italic architecture and has been used from the Italians as a police station. Until nowadays has not changed its character and still operates as a police station.

For a tour in Gennadi Village, click here!

Businesses of this Community

AMPELIA HOTEL
ANNA'S SHOP JEWELLERY
ANTICA CAFE - BAR
BLUE WAVES CAFE - BAR - RESTAURANT
CHRISTIANNA HOTEL
EFFIE'S DREAMS APARTMENTS
"EXPLORER" RENT A MOTO
Gennadi Bay Hotel
GENNADI SUN HOTEL-APARTMENTS
GOLDEN CORNER JEWELLERY
GOLDEN SUN RISE HOTEL
KAMINDOS Hotel - Apartments
MEMORIS Restaurant
MEZEDAKIA FISH-HOUSE, RESTAURANT
PAUL SUPER MARKET
SENSATIONS CAFE - BAR

Asklipeio Rhodos Island Tour an Travel Hotels Info

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The name of the community comes from the Ancient Asklipeio that was located on the area. Until today no buildings has been found.

The community is characterised as a built up area with aegean style characteristics, built on a hillside, with pure white small houses and narrow streets.

It is only 4 km from the central provincial road of Lindos-Kattavias and from the right side of the road 15 km from the crossroads of Lindos.
At the entrance of the village there is the Byzantine Church of the Assumption of the Virgin, of cruciform order with dome built in 1060 of stone and an accession for a place set apart from women took place in the 17th century.
The Saint Mary's festival takes place in the 15th of August.
It is pictorial since the 16th century with characteristical themes from the Birth of Christ till the Christ's Resurrection and the Revelation of St John (the Apocalypse).

Characteristic is the colossal picture of Archangel Michael in the left side of the holy bema.

Beside the church there is a building of the 18th century that operates as a religious museum with old books, holy vessels and vests that date back in the 15th century. Apart from the religious museum there is also the folklore, agricultural museum, building of an old olive press, with objects that were used for daily operations.

On the hilltop predominates a Byzantine, Venetian Fortress built in 1200 AC which was the seat of a feudal lord during that era and bears the holy father's proprietary order.
The northeast part is sustained as well as 2 towers. It was repaired and maintained since 1935. In the village traditional coffeehouses are on business, together with the Cultural Center and the Library.

The seaside riviera of the built-up area of Kiotari
On the left side of the provincial road at about 500m the Kiotari built-up area is situated with a small monastery of the Transfiguration, celebrates on the 6th of August, built in the 8th century,
of stone.
Superb beaches with sand and shingles, a natural harbour which is being repaired. It is used by many amateurs fishermen who bring small boats into port.
In the area there are small hotel units, lodgings, shops, restaurants, canteen etc. In a distance of
1.5 km huge hotel units of approximately 2.000 beds capacity are on business.

Archagelos - Rhodes island Greece tour Guide

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Archagelos is a municipality with 5.800 inhabitants and it has an area of 5 sq. km. It is situated on the eastern coast of Rhodes island, 28 km from the city of Rhodes and it stands 161 m above the sea-level. Its history stretches back over thousands of years.

1500 BC Achaean Greeks from mainland move to Crete island and from Crete to Rhodes where they settle in the site of Mountain Filerimos - called Achaea by them.

1100 BC When the Mycenaean war was over, Dorians come to Rhodes and set up three city-states : Lindos, Ialysos and Kamiros which later united with other Doric cities, Cos, knidos and Halicarnassus, to form the "Doric Hexapolis" (a federation of six cities).

408 BC A new city-state, the city of Rhodes, established on the northern tip of the island arises and becomes the most powerful.

During that time, Archangelos is known as "Pontorephs municipality", belongs to Ialysos city-state and is situated on the coastal site Petronas (stone place). In Middle Ages the inhabitants move away from the coast because of pirates raids and the new settlement is named Archagelos. Pottery is in prosperity. Emperor Justinian takes bricks from Petronas to decorate the arch of Saint Sophia Church in Constantinople.

1309-1522 AD Rhodes island is under the rule of the knights of Saint John. In 1476 a castle-fortress was built on the top of a rock in Arcagelos to protect the inhabitants. Ruins of this castle are still evident today.

1522-1912 AD Rhodes falls into Ottoman hands.
1912 AD Italians occupy the island for 32 years.
1948 AD Liberation and Unification of the Dodecanese with the rest of Greece.
Nowadays, Archagelos is the largest town in the island. Carpet-weaving and pottery which date back hundreds of years continue to be active. Local customs and morals, folklore and tradition have kept unchangeable the character and civilization of Archagelos. Friendly and hospitable people welcome every visitor. Renovated houses as well as old ones, traditional coffee shops serving "ouzo" (Greek aperitif) and "meze"(titbit taverns and restaurants offering Greek cuisine make up a magnificent holiday place.
Hotels and rooms for rent with family atmosphere make your holiday unforgettable. Banks, Post Office, Health Center, public buses linking Archagelos with every district around Rhodes, cars and motorbikes for hire quarantee a comfortable stay. You can attend performances of folk dances held by the Cultural Association.

Archagelos is a place worth visiting. We are sure that you will come again.

You are welcome.

Rhodes Island Greece - Rhodes Greece - Tour and Travel guide Hotels Flights

2010-05-16T13:12:00.000-07:00

All are welcome to Medieval Rhodes. Rhodes is one of the Mediterranean’s favourite destinations. It is the largest and most developed of the dodeka or 12 islands that constitute the Dodecanese (Dodekanisos) and form Greece’s far eastern strategic border,within kissing distance of neighbouring Turkey. Of all those who overran the island,the Italians have left the greatest mark.Romans, Venetians, Grusarders constructed most of the islands’ magnificent temples and fortresses such as the impressive walled monastery of the Knights of St. John.Great temples were erected on the Akropoli and a wide, straight road was built down to the harbour.

The Colossus one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, a symbol of Rhodian strength and wealth. If there is one thing the beautiful island of Rhodes
seems never to run short of, that’s its endless supply of sunshine.
With the best record of sun of all the Greek islands, it’s no wonder Rhodes continues to prove a regular haven for every serious unworshipper, year in, year out.
However, sunsoaked sandy beaches, warm blue waters and bleached white villages, no matter how seductive, are far from its only attractions. Rhodes is a fascinating island by any standards, with literally something for everyone. A good example of which is the rare mix of ancient and modern in Rhodes Town itself. A mere cannon shot away and you will find the new part of town,with fashionable and luxurious hotels, trendy shops, boutiques, restaurants and as many lively discos and clubs as you’ve got the energy for.Further down the coast, a visit to Lindos is a must. Here, overlooked by the Acropolis,the suntrap inlet of St. Paul’s Bay acts as a magnet to every bronzed sunlover determined to develop the ultimate tan.

How to get to Rhodes
By Sea: Daily car ferries and cruise ships from Piraeus and also service from Rafina.
There are also ferries from Crete (Aghios Nikolaos), & Santorini. Several ferries ply the Dodecanese waters to Tilos, Nissiros, Halkis and Karpathos, while daily ferries service the more popular Symi, Kos, Leros, Kalymnos and Patmos.
For the romantics ones, there are also caique excursions between Rhodes and many other small islands.
The Dodecanese hydrofoil company is based in Rhodes with daily service to Kos and Patmos.

BY AIR: Daily flights from Athens. Also flights from Crete (Heraklion), Kos, Paros, Mykonos, Santorini. There’s a duty free shop at Rhodes International Airport to accommodate European charter travellers.

Getting around Rodos

Within the town, walking is the best and the most pleasurable mode of transport.
However, Rhodes is so big that you’ll need public buses, group - shared taxis, a rental car, or an organised bus tour for around - the - island excursions.

BY BUS: There is a good public system throughout the island.
E.O.T. publishes a schedule of routes and times.
BY TAXI: In Rhodes city, there’s a large, well organised taxi stand in front of Old Town.
BY CAR or BIKE: There are several car - rentals companies in each community, and a local travel agent may be able to give you the best price.
BY TOUR / CRUISES:There are several tour operators featuring nature, archaeology, shopping, and beach tours of the island.

However, the old walled city offers important and worthwhile sightseeing such as:
The street of the knights which is one of the best preserved and most delightful medieval relics in the world.
The Palace of the Villiers of the Isle of Adam, housing the Archaeological Service of the Dodecanese.
The Inn of the Order of the Tounge (language) of Italy.

The Inn of France which now hosts the French Language Institute.
The amazing Palace of the Knights, also known as the Palace of the Grand Masters or Magisters)
Byzantine Museum of Rhodes with several exquisite Greek sculptures.
The Mosque of Suleyman, the public baths, the Municipal Baths.
Last but not least, note that in the old town you can shop classic and contemporary gold and silver jewellery, leather goods and furs, favourite sculptures, tiles and many other beautiful works from throughout ancient Greece.

Faliraki , Lindos, Ialyssos, are very popular and interesting resorts.
One interesting excursion, often done as day trip,
is Petaloudes, a valley full of butterflies about 25 km from the city.

BEACHES

Rhodes is the island of Helios, the God of sun.
So....enjoy the sun, sunbathing in its endless sandy magnificent beaches.

Faliraki is 5 km south from Kalithea and it is a very popular resort with rocking nightlife.
Lindos, a sheltered sweep of sandy beach - backed by popular taverns, a maze of winding narrow streets.
Pefkos spreads around a sandy beach and pretty bay.
Afandou is a charming village that successfully blends tradition and tourism. It spreads behind an 8 km sand and single beach.
Tholos is a rural resort on the western coastline. Its resort’s pebble beach is long and fairly narrow.

USEFUL INFORMATION

National Bank of Greece Tel: + 30 - 241 - 23377

Post Office Tel: 22201

Hospital Tel: 25555

Police Tel: 31111

Olympic Airways: 24555

Patmos Island Greece - Patmos Greece - Tour and Travel guide Hotels Flights

2010-05-16T13:04:00.000-07:00

If you are planning a holiday in Greece, and you are interested in making a unique stop over on a small island, then let the 'meltemi' - the cool Aegean wind - blow you away on a magical voyage through space and time, over sea lanes and through bygone eras, on a journey of colours and poetic communion with the sounds of the songs of Odysseus Elytis.

Let yourself be carried away to a destination that weds the transcendental with the earthly, where a pilgrimage to a place sacred to all Christendom may be combined with a peaceful holiday, spiritual meditation and worship of God with the waves breaking on the rocks, the solemn half - light of the churches with the blinding rays of the sun, the stark white of the buildings with the warm colours of the earth, the lustrous golden radiance of the Byzantine icons with the deep cobalt blue of the sea, spiritual peace with the welcoming, hospitable human environment, the Byzantine hymns wafted on the air with the island's earthy folk songs.

Let yourself be taken to the place where your soul and your body are calling you.
Follow the melodious chiming of the bells of the Monastery of St. John.
Let yourself be drawn in by Patmos' force of attraction.
The island of the Revelation is waiting for you
to discover it.

Geographical Position - Physical Features

Patmos is the northernmost island of the
Dodecanese, on the eastern frontier of the Aegean Sea (southwest of Samos).
Generously endowed by nature, its topography presents a landscape of outstanding natural beauty, with small stretches of flat land scattered among low, rocky hills.
Impressive crenellated coasts are made up of dozen of tongues of land reaching out into the sea, interspersed with picturesque inlets.
The island's microclimate is dry; with frequent northerly winds and exceptionally clear air, it is bathed in sunlight 3,000 hours a year.
Patmos has an area of only 34 square kilometers, and lies at a distance of 161 nautical miles from Piraeus.

History
The first settlers on Patmos were the Carians, followed by the Ionians.
Ruined 4th - century BC walls bear witness to the existence of a fortified town at the Kastelli site.
Preliminary excavations have revealed that Artemis and Apollo were worshipped there.
The temple of the goddess of the hunt, Artemis, is believed to have stood on the site where the great Monastery of Patmos was later built in the 11th century.

The temple of the god of music, Apollo, was near the port of Skala.
In the first century BC, Patmos, a dependency of Miletus on the coast of Asia Minor, boasted a large population and an remarkable civilization.
Ancient temples, a gymnasium, games, and an association of lampadists (torch - racers) indicate its economic well-being and high level of culture.

The Island Today
In recent decades, most of the island's 3000 permanent residents have worked in the tourist sector, which has grown to be its main economic resource.
Administratively, Patmos is part of the Dodecanese complex; it forms a municipality based in the island's historic capital, Hora.
Skala, built around the port of the same name, is the township where most of the islands social and economic life is concentrated.
The smaller village of kambos was in the past the centre of Patmos' farming community, whereas picturesque Grikos is a settlement that has only recently come into being as a result of construction of tourist accommodation.
In 1981 the Greek Parliament passed a special law designating Patmos as a Sacred Island.
It is part of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, which organised glorious celebrations in 1988 to commemorate the 900th anniversary of the founding of the Monastery of St. John, and in 1995 to commemorate the 1900th anniversary of the writing of the holy Book of Apocalypse.

Kozani Greece - Tour and Travel guide Hotels Flights

2010-05-16T13:02:00.000-07:00

Kozani Greece - Tour and Travel guide Hotels Flights

Kozani, a picturesque town set 710 metres above sea level, is the prefectural capital. The town has several interesting churches, some with beautifully carved icon-screens, some with lovely frescoes, as well as a few 19th century mansion houses. Kozani's pride and glory is the Kouventarios Municipal Library, which contains 69.000 volumes and a large number of manuscripts.

Also worth a visit is the Analipsi Monastery, a bit to the north of town, where the weavings, rugs and embroideries made by the nuns have won considerable renown.Those wishing a more traditional atmosphere will want to go to Siatista (28 km. to the southwest) on the slopes of Mt. Siniatsikos (alt. 920 m.). Thanks to its fur industry, the town prospered in terms of both commerce and culture in the 18th and 19th century, and the churches, schools and mansions built during that era still stand. The interiors of Siatista's houses are beautifully decorated with carved wooden ceilings, stained glass windows and elegant fireplaces.
The market town of Velvendos lies 30 kilometres southeast of Kozani. Surrounded by plane and poplar woods, peach orchards and hazelnut stands near the Aliak-mon river, it too has retained many of its old mansions. In addition, many new buildings are designed in the traditional style.

Other villages where old Macedonian architecture can be seen and admired are Pentalofos, Katafigi, Vlasti and Tsotili with a picturesque arched bridge.

Servia controls the pass over the mountains to Thessaly; here there is both a Byzantine fortress and several Byzantine churches with superb frescoes.

Finally, at Perdikas, near the town of Ptolemaida, the anthropologist Aris Poulianos discovered the bones of a prehistoric elephant. One of the oldest specimens of the kind ever found in Europe, it lived in the region some three million years ago.

Thessaloniki Greece - Tour and Travel guide Hotels Flights

2010-05-16T13:01:00.000-07:00

The current Prefecture of Thessaloniki has been inhabited since the Prehistoric years.
After the foundation of Thessaloniki, this region’s of history is one and the same with that of the city, which has been especially rich realizing many conquerors and peaks of prosperity.

Thessaloniki was founded in 316 BC on the site of the old city of Thermi which gave its name to the Thermaic Gulf. Kassandros was its founder who also gave it the name of his consort, Thesaloniki, half-sister to Alexander the Great.

Due to its geographical position, Thessaloniki grew very fast and developed into being capital of the Macedonian state, gradually taking the leadership from Pella, the birth-city of the Macedonian Kings.
There are many who praised the beauty of this city also known as the bride of the Thermaic gulf.

Greece’s second city stands proudly at the cross-road between East and West. A very exceptional city which easily could be compared to Constantinople and Ravena in its wealth of Byzantine monuments.

Thessaloniki is ampitheatrically built on the slopes of the hill of Kedrinos (Seih Sou) and ends along the coasts of the Thermaic Gulf.
Kato Poli (lower city) stretches to the east reaching the harbor and is split into two by the installations of the Thessaloniki international Exhibition and the Park of the White Tower.

Each autumn and during the exhibition, Thessaloniki receives thousands of visitors from the whole of Greece and from abroad, justifying its fame as Balkan’s most significant economic and commercial center.
Our meeting with History starts at the WhiteTower, the city’s "trademark" and only remains left from its coastal harbor fortifications.
This circular building was built in the beginning of the 15th C. (around 1430) with a height of 37m, and was used as a prison for the Turkish fanatic Muslim-soldiers (Yenicerians).

Near the white Tower you can see the installations of the international Exhibition Center with the characteristically high tower of OTE (Hellenic Telecommunication Organization).

Pieria Greece - Tour and Travel guide Hotels Flights

2010-05-16T13:00:00.000-07:00

Pieria is the region where you can combine your mountain holiday with a vacation by the sea.
In Pieria Not only will you find the Thermaic coast enchanting,you'll admire Olympos, the mountain of the gods.

Pieria is thickly forested, with plane trees, pines, poplars and firs on Olympos.

The capital of this prefecture, Katerini, lies between the plain of Pieria and Mt. Olympos.
In Katerini you can have a pleasant time visiting the zoo and taking a walk to the Byzantine church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary at Kontariotissa.

At Dion, 17 km. south of Katerini, archaeologists have brought to light the extensive ruins of the Macedonians' sanctuary of the gods.

Among the lush vegetation and springs of the Pierian plain, just before the ascent to Olympos begins, one can see the ruins of the sanctuary buildings - the temples, two theatres and a stadium - while next to them, to the north, the remains of the ancient city of Dion stretch out.
It was closely associated to Zeus as its name implies (in Greek the god is called Dias).

The city of Dion was well fortified by the wall erected in the 4th century B.C., and it had a splendid layout.
To go back to the present, Leptokaria has a lovely beach long enough to attract crowds of Greek and foreign tourists each summer.
Other seaside resorts are Methoni, Nea Agathoupoli with its splendid fishmarket, Agios Panteleimonas with its Venetian castle, Platamonas with its sandy beaches, and Makrigialos with the ruins of ancient Pydna.

The enchanting valley of Enipeas with its river coming down from Olympos is worth visiting.

Kavala Greece - Tour and Travel guide Hotels Flights

2010-05-16T12:57:00.000-07:00

The city of Kavala has kept all three of its physiognomies intact, the Eastern, the Western and the Balkan’s, which give it its special charm and beauty.
Thassos has been continuously inhabited since the Stone Age. Its ancient city was founded by Parians in 710 BC who where led there by a message from the Delphic oracle.The oracle told them to "Find a city in the Isle of Mists".

Hotels / Apartments-Studios-Rent Rooms / Restaurants / Bar-Cafe/ Traditional Food-Pastry Shops

The Thrakeans are considered to be the first inhabitants of the disrrict of Kavala. The city they built was originally called Neapolis and together with Philippous were the most significant of the area.
At one of the city-entrances we are met by arches of the Roman water reservoirs, the old bridge with the narrow channel that brought water from the surrounding mountains.

Near the harbor Imaret stands out , a building of characteristically Turkish architecture built by the founder of the Egyptian Dynasty, Mohammed Ali, in 1817. In the same neighborhood you can see parts of Byzantine walls and you can enjoy the view over the city.
A visit to Kavala and the beautiful fishing villages of this district can be combined with a visit to the significant archaeological site of Philippon, near the village of Krinides.
High and imposing, the mountain of Pangeo dominates the area, surrounded by myths, legends and its "innards" full of gold. According to mythology Dionysos had his sanctuary here and he taught the locals how to cultivate the vineyards.

The sources of gold of Pangeo have been known since antiquity and we can still see old abandoned gold mines.
THASSOS

Thassos has been continuously inhabited since the Stone Age. Its ancient city was founded by Parians in 710 BC who where led there by a message from the Delphic oracle.The oracle told them to "Find a city in the Isle of Mists".
AAfter the battle of Plataea, Thassos, became an ally of Athens, but when Athens attempted to curtail Thassos' trade with Egypt and Asia Minor, war broke out between the two.

In 1912, along with the other islands of the group,Thassos was united with Greece.
You can use the public transportation of the island. There are many buses per day to Limenaria and to Golden Beach via Panagia and Potamia. There are several buses to Theologos and Aliki. Few buses per day are making a journey in a clockwise direction all the way around the island.
You can also use a boat for excursions (daily trips around the island) with stops for swimming and picnic.

There are a lot of beaches around the island. Some of them are: Makryammos, Skala Potamia, Kinira, Golden Beach etc.

Chalkidiki Greece - Tour and Travel guide Hotels Flights

2010-05-16T12:46:00.000-07:00

Hhalkidiki is one of the most beautiful areas and is developing into an international tourist resort.
Its morphology is characteristic with the three "foot" peninsulas being washed by the Aegean waters and ending in amazingly beautiful golden beaches.
Kassandra ,Sithonia and the peninsula of
Athos peninsula on which a very special
monastic city is built.

The discovery of a cranium belonging to an archaic man in the cave of Petralona in Chalkidiki verifies the ancient habitation of this area (at least 600.000 BC).
Chalkidiki has been closely related with legends and myths since ancient times.

During the Byzantine years Athos became a refuge place for the Orthodox and "dependencies" of the monasteries of Agion Oros were built on the whole peninsula

Polygiro is Chalkidiki's capital, built upon a "balcony" of Mt. Cholomontas with a view over the peninsula and the sea beyond that ,like a canvas to the glittering reflections of the sun.
Chalkidiki’s coasts have a total length of almost 500Km, a fact that give us a variety of choices; you can either spend your vacations calm and isolated or among many people and a cosmopolitan night-life or even a combination of both.

Chalkidiki’s second foot is the peninsula of Sithonia, which is washed by the Kassandrian Gulf and the Gulf of Agion Oros.
On sithonia you will meet equally charming places as the rest of Chalkidiki, impressive hotel buildings and many beaches ideal for all taste

Greece Island Yacht Charters & Tours in Greece

2010-05-16T12:43:00.000-07:00

Greece Yacht Charter & Travel Information
Greece has influenced many cultures and civilizations around the globe for centuries. Greece, which gave birth to philosophy, astronomy, democracy, mathematics and science --- was once known in the ancient times as the seat of learning. Today, the island is better regarded as popular Mediterranean travel destination, known for its beautiful beaches, charming villages and ancient ruins.

The Greek islands are a wonderful place to explore by cruise or by yacht charter, offering a variety of activities within its azure waters. Whether you want to snorkel in the clear blue waters, take a voyage on a yacht, explore the ruins of Ancient legends, or quietly read a book in a shady taverna, a tour of the islands of Greece are sure to have the ingredients for a memorable vacation.

Greece Island Yacht Charters & Tours in Greece
Many travel companies offer various packages to tour Greece. Travelers can choose from five common options: a full tour of Greece, sailing in Greece, a cruise trip, Greece yacht charter or an island-hopping package; or a combination of all five.

Most tour packages offered in a tour of Greece essentially provide the same deals (with a few adjustments provided by the tour handler). A typical tour of Greece, which usually covers a period of one week, includes a stay in Athens, coupled with sailing in Greece to selected islands, and may also include a quick stop to Turkey.

Some tours in Greece are specifically defined for those who are traveling on a budget. Many Greece cruises are relatively inexpensive and provide a good choice for visiting many locations in a limited period of time. Longer itineraries would include visits to Delphi, Meteora or the Peloponnese. Resort packages vary with every tour provider. Airport transfers are usually provided in all of these tour packages. Also, all Greece tours provide hotel reservations and ferry ticket bookings.

Luckily, even if these tours in Greece are defined with specific schedules, many allow the traveler the time to do some independent exploring of the islands.

Obviously, the convenience of booking one of these tour packages eliminates the hassle brought by missed connections, cancelled trips or mistaken hotel bookings. A necessity if you want a relaxed, hassle-free vacation!

Other Travel Tips to Greece
Greece’s ancient history is unsurpassed, especially as much of it remains intact and easily accessible to visitors. The Parthenon in Athens, for example, is like an obligatory destination, and is almost always a part of the typical Greece tour package. One must not leave the island without visiting the Parthenon in the Acropolis, one of highlights of Ancient Greece.

The long and sparkling coastlines offer many beaches, perfect for an exciting and memorable Greece sailing trip. Mention Greek island-hopping and images of the Mediterranean sun, the picturesque white-stone villages, and lively tavernas, come to mind. Elsewhere, festivals, music, shopping and vineyard visits form part of the allure of a Grecian holiday.

In the winter, one can ski in the snow-covered mountains of Arahova, just off Delphi. At the same time, one can still enjoy the beaches because the winter season here is not as cold as the weather of northern America. Winter season in Greece begins in late October and ends by March. Greek tours during winters usually come with cheaper accommodation rates and airfare. There are also fewer tourist and crowds traveling at this time of the year. The winter season is also the best time to go mountain climbing, biking, trekking, touring archeological sites and bird-watching, compared to the hot summer months of July and August, when crowds and the heat take over.

Groups or parties, like college students on their Spring Break, can avail of bigger discounts with a Greece tour or a Greece cruise package. As the island is also a popular wedding or honeymoon destination, there are all sorts of Greece cruise, wedding packages and yacht charters offered by travel agencies.

The beaches of Greece are the best places to bring families who are traveling with their children. While children may not appreciate visits to many of these ancient ruins, one or two historical destinations would be an educational awakening for them. Dining at Greek restaurants with kids is not a problem, as many establishments here are kid-friendly.

The busiest season to tour the islands of Greece is during mid-August. While the beaches during this season are full of tourists, the city of Athens is usually empty. When traveling to Greece at this time of the year, double check your hotel and ferry bookings to avoid any hitches.

The Greeks also celebrate their version of Mardi Gras. Held every February, many villages and towns hold parties, dancing and festivities during the celebration of Apokreas and these go on all night.

A special time to be in Greece would also be in Easter. Other than participating or witnessing traditional practices in commemoration of the season, the smell of roast lamb and wildflowers of spring, during this time of the year, create an enticing combination.

Aside from the Parthenon in Athens, other famous places to see and experience in Greece include:

• The Olympia in Athens (the spot of the historic 2004 Olympic Games)
• Thessaloniki’s symbolic White Tower and the region’s rich Byzantine culture
• The south of Corinth
• The beaches in Lesvos
• The wine vineyards in the countryside
• The islands around the Aegean Sea
• The wildlife preserve in Alonissos (Sporades Marine Park)
• The famous, Moni Panagia Chozoviotissa, a Byzantine monastery in Amorgos

MAGNESIA Greece - Tour and Travel guide Hotels Flights

2010-05-16T12:41:00.000-07:00

The Land of Centaurs and Argonauts
The prefecture of Magnesia occupies the east side of Thessaly, encompassing the peninsula of the same name which ends in cape Trikeri and encloses the Pagasitic gulf in its embrace.
Travellers however, who may find themselves taken unawares, will find themselves "magnetized" by the place. Much praised Pelion with its picturesque hamlets, Volos and its port, which holds out a promise to modern day Argonauts of travels full of surprises, with its gorgeous beaches.

General Information

Volos (Area Code) 0421
Archeological Museum tel: 25 285
Police Department tel: 23 312 Fire Department tel: 33 191

Public Library tel: 59 000
Municipality of Volos tel: 21 111 Municipality of N. Ionia tel: 68 441
Post Office tel: 36 300

Hotel Association tel: 20 273
Art Center Giorgio di Cirico tel 39 644 - Folk Art Center Kitsou Makri tel: 37 119

Hospital tel: 27 531-4
Taxi tel: 32 496, 37 881, 32 171 Customs tel: 23 111

The List of Hotels and the Distances in kilometers from Volos
Afissos 25,6 km Amaliapolis 57,0 km Ag. Dimitrios 48,5 km
Ag. Giorgis 21,7 km Ag. Ioannis 55,0 km Agria 7,4 km
Alikes 4 km Ali Meria 7 km Almiros 35,2 km
Anilio 45,2 km Argalasti 40,5 km Hania 20 km
Horefto 55 km Kala Nera 19 km Kastri 72 km
N. Anchialos 19 km Makrinitsa 16,6 km Milies 28 km
Milina 50 km Milopotamos 59 km Mouresi 50 km
Platanias 67,5 km Portaria 13,6 km Trikeri 85 km
Tsangarada 47 km Vizitsa 31 km Zagora 47 km

Lefkada Island Greece - Lefkada Greece - Tour and Travel guide Hotels Flights

2010-05-16T12:40:00.000-07:00

Until the 7th Century BC Lefkada constituted a peninsula of the western coast of Greece with which it was unified. The Corinthians cut the isthmus and separated it from the opposite shore.
Divided between island and mainland, Lefkada has a special charm. It's "trade-mark" are the impressive beaches with white sand and deep-blue waters.

Its villages, most of them mountainous, keep their traditions and charm, untouched by the increasing tourist trade during the past years.

The town of Lefkada is on the north-eastern side of the island.The bridge that connects it with Aetoloakarnania and the ruins of the Castle of Agia Mavra is our first picture of the island.
Beneath the castle stretches the white sandy beach from Gira to Ai' Giannis, about 7 Km. long.

The windmills, fish-taverns, cafeterias and ouzeries which we meet along the road complete the beauty of this scene.Inland you can find many picturesque villages, where the customs and traditions have been maintained and are practiced.
You can often see women here wearing their traditional costumes and "boles", their golden tinkling earrings.

The sea around Lefkada is embroidered by small and large islands, of which many are private property.
On all the surrounding islands we can find beautiful beaches ,while on Meganisi there are hotels and a few rooms for rent, where you can spend your relaxing holidays.

Ithaki Island Greece - Ithaki Greece - Tour and Travel guide Hotels Flights

2010-05-16T12:33:00.000-07:00

When you begin your journey to Ithaki wish that it shall be a long way full of adventures, full of knowledge"

According to the findings of the archaeologists, Ithaki has been inhabited since the 3rd millennium BC.The most important period of its history was in the 12th Century BC, during Odysseus' reign.
In the Greek epic poem "Odyssey" Homer gives a very detailed description of the palaces and the surrounding areas.

Ithaki the island symbol of adventure and longing for homeland but also the symbol of the path to education and self knowledge.
Homer's "Odyssey", the epic poem of the wanderings of Odysseus from Troy to his homecoming, made his adventures famous world-wide.

The traveler of today will easily find the way to this little ionian island still unaffected by tourism.
First stop is the harbor and capital Vathi, well protected in the arms of an enclosed gulf ,almost in the middle of the island.

There are many worthwhile places to visit in the town : the archaeological museum, the remains of a Venetian castle at the entrance of the harbor and the library with rare books.

Ithaki is one of those islands which are worth getting to know by foot, as all the distances on the island are short
Continuing our excursion we come across the charming villages of northern Ithaki. At Lefki we find wonderful lacy shores , similar to that at Agios Ioannis Ammoudaki and Lefko Gialo.

According to tradition and the epics of Homer, Ithaki was the island of Ulysses.

It is a place of exquisite beauty, with an old-age spiritual and cultural history.

An example of the island's architecture

Its historical destiny, directly linked with that of Cephalonia, reached its peak during the periods of Venetian and British domination.

It is worth pointing out of the role which it played during the struggle of the Greeks against the Turks.
Prominent citizens of Ithaki participated in the secret "Filiki Etairia" which was instrumental in organizing the Greek Revolution of 1821, and Greek fighters found refuge there.
In addition, the participation of Ithacans during the siege of Messologi and the naval battles with Turkish ships at the Black Sea and Danube was significant.

Besides having a strong historical and cultural character, Ithaki is an island of great nature beauty.

A panoramic view of Vathi

Its capita, Vathi, stretching around a bright green bay, climbs like an amphitheater up the surrounding hill.
A picturesque natural spot with splendid mansions, Vathi is encircled by the relics of Venetian castles commemorating periods of glory.

The "Aetos" hill rises majestically above the Pissaetos port. The classical walls belonged to the ancient city of Alalkomenes, where, according to tradition, Ulysses was born.

Kioni

From Stavros, the largest village of Ithaki, with the lovely "Polis" beach close by, to Frikkes, picturesque Kioni, with its deep blue creeks, and Perahori with its marvelous Byzantine churches, the island offers the visitor a journey through its beauty and history...

Zakynthos Island Greece - Zakynthos Greece - Tour and Travel guide Hotels Flights

2010-05-16T12:23:00.000-07:00

Zakynthos Island Greece - Zakynthos Greece - Tour and Travel guide Hotels Flights

Zakynthos, also called Zante, or "Fiore di Levande" (The flower of East Wind) is a sparkling diamond under the sun, surrounded by the emerald waters of the Ionian Sea. Zakynthos, the artistic center of the Ionian islands, island of natural beauties, of arts and spirit.

Zakynthos is the southernmost island in the Ionian group, a short distance off the north-western tip of the Peloponnese. Greek tourists have been coming to Zante long before international visitors started to get to know and appreciate its many attractions.

Zante’s geography ranges from the mountainous landscape in the north of the island to the gentle hills and flat countryside of the south. Springs abound and contribute to very green valleys and country lanes covered with wild flowers. Coastal cliffs and miles of golden beaches could make many other Greek islands look to its laurels. The beach resorts of this delightful island offer a good variety of watersports, tavernas and discos.

As dusk falls, the browning daytime of population moves inland to feast on local fare….. but the beach doesn’t stay lifeless for long. A quite different species takes the night shift, as the Loggerhead sea turtles come ashore. These peaceful creatures have long been endangered in the Mediterranean waters and have adopted Zakynthos as their most important nesting area, where their conservation is taken very seriously.

The World Wide Fund For Nature have undertaken steps to protect them. Founded in 1961 the "WWF" has helped to create awareness of the threats to the natural environment of many islands, worldwide, helping to save them from extinction.

How to get there: By Road and Sea: From whatever place of continental Greece you stand, first of all you must get to Kylini, a small harbor on the Peloponnese mainland.There several ferries make the 1hr 30min. trip daily to Zante. By air: There is one flight daily from Athens on Olympic Airways to the town of Zakynthos.

Getting around Zakynthos

Local buses can transfer you daily from Zakynthos to most of the villages and beaches of the island. Tel: 42 656
By small boats you can go to Blue Cave, Alykes, Lake Keri, Marathonissi.
More information in the local tourist offices.

Where to go Zakynthos

Byzantine museum (tel 22 714): In an impressive building, you can admire masterpieces of local artists.
Solomos Museum, next to Agios Markos Cathedral, to have a look at the lifelong collection of the national poet of Greece.

The Cathedral of Agios Dionissios, across the harbor, is one of the island's finest churches. Twice a year, on August 24 and December 17, there are processions throughout the town for St. Dionissios, who must pass over streets strewn with myrtle branches.

The Venetian Castle, 3km from the city, built in an exceptional place.

The Public Library which has almost 55.000 books.

Beaches of Zakynthos

Laganas isn’t just a seaside holiday resort - it’s got the best beach on the whole of Zante - five miles of golden sand strenching along the island’s southern coast. Alikes is the favourite beach of many locals. It is the pretiest white sandy beach on the island and it isn’t too much crowded.
Another very important beach is Kalamaki where the famous loggerhead turtles come late each evening during the month to lay their eggs on the shore.

Also Tsilivi beach, Vassilikos and Argassi are very beautiful ones Nevertheless, we recommend you to go out and explore, cause the verdant countryside will convice you why the Venetians dubbed Zakynthos the "Fiore di Levante".

Useful Information about Zakynthos
Area code 0695
Banks
National Bank of Greece and most of the major banks

Post Office tel 42 418

Hospital tel 42 514-15

Police tel 22 200, 42 550

Corfu Island Kato Korakian Tour And Travel Guide

2010-05-16T12:20:00.000-07:00

Kato Korakiana is situated on the north east of island Corfu and just 12 km. from the town of Corfu, while the distances from the airport and the port are 13 and 11 km, respectively.

Kato Koriakana was established as autonomous community in 1912. Its land is 14 square meters and its population, according to the last census of 1991, was 3.214 inhabitants, but today is estimated to be more.

It is bounded on the south by the town of Corfu, on the west and north by the community of Ano Korakiana, on the north east by the communities of St. Markos and Spartilla, while its whole east part is washed by the Ionian Sea, at the magic and famous beaches of Ipsos, Dasia, Krevatsoula, Merlin and Dafnilla.

Its climate is mild, mediterranean, and the country is both flat and hilly with fertile soil, where the oil-tree, the vineyards as well as many other fruit bearings of every season thrive.

Kato Korakiana is an ideal place for vacations of every kind, since it provides many alternatives solutions for every taste and financial standing.

From luxury vacations in big hotel complexes equipped with all the modern facilities, to economic vacations in very clean furnished rooms with friendly prices, or to comfortable quite campings, hostels, pensions, villas, all with magnificent view to both the green land and the clean blue sea.

Famous beaches such as Ipsos, Dasia and Dafnilas are awarded with blue flags from E.C. every year. Here is also CLUB MENTITERANE, the first Tourist complex in Greece, built in 1953 and also the first club MENTITERANE around the world.
The numerous community shops, which are all under the supervision of Local Authority, during the tourist period consist a polymorphous commercial activity.

Shops of every kind, Super Markets, Tourist Shops, Jeweler’s, Restaurants, which offer traditional Greek and International cuisine, peaceful taverns, Discos, Bars, cafes, patisseries, and whatever you wish. Additionally, with the initiative of Local Authority many and various cultural events, festivals,are taking place every year.

Kato Korakiana is provided with 20.000 beds combining the peaceful traditional Tourism with the most modern conveniences.
For those who also want to combine their vacations with sea sports, here they will have the opportunity of keeping themselves busy, taking lessons from experienced teachers of water-ski, windsurf, diving, underwater fishing.

Additionally, boats for tours around the beautiful Corfu and the opposite coastlines, car and moto rentals are under your disposal. All the same, the tourist offices of the area are always willing to help you in any information you many need.

The final obtaining of Kato Korakiana, is the beautiful and lee (ward) port of Ipsos, more than 10.000 m2 sea area with 200 positions available for cutters. The same area is provided with light, water, telephone, and it is developed to a modern International Submarine.
All these are taking place within very clean areas, since the community has 4 dustcarts, experienced staff in the service of cleaning, as well as many litter baskets in every 50 meters all around the village.

The communitiess of Ipsos, Dasia, Dafnilla, and in general the whole community of Kato Korakiana, are under the police supervision 24 hours the day, providing the visitors a safety place. In the case of emergency, 2 consulting rooms, and 2 pharmacies, as well as the Medical Center of St. Markos just 500 meter from the center of the village are always open to help you.
The village has frequent bus service, (every 20 min.). Kato Korakiana is a genuine Tourist Village with great tradition to Tourism affairs and always in the service of its visitors.

History - Civilization

Kato Korakiana has its roots in the prochristian years and as an integral part of Corfu, it followed the fate of the island in the changes of the many conquers:

Corinthians and Athenians during the ancient times, Romans, Byzantine Emperors, Normands, Andiganians, Stavrofori, Enetians, French, Russians, Turks, and English until 1864, when all Eptanisa (the 7 islands of Ionian Sea) united with Greece.

In 1867 the island of Corfu was separated into 13 municipalities and Kato Korakiana made up for those years as an important part of municipality of APILIOTON, until 1912, when the dissolution of all Municipalities came and Kato Korakiana as well as the other villages of Corfu were made autonomous communities.

According to the tradition, in the beginning of 11th century the oldest village which had Archangel Michael as a patron, was devastated from coursers.
During the after years, the Turkish fleet ashore in the sea area of Ipsos and Dasia and disembarked there, so again Kato Koriakana was devastated and massacred totally from Turks during 1537 and 1716.

It is worth pointing out that in the church of Zoothochou Pigis, a building of 13th century, the bayoneting of barbarians on the old holy icons are still visible even today.

Since it was a fertile land as we have already said Kato Korakiana was divided among the rich landowners during the endless years of Feduarchias, so it may be the only village of Corfu with so many mansions and lands.It is enough to say that Theotiki family who located from 1458, owned a wide land from Kommeno to Ipsos.
However and many others such as Kartanos, Smaramagkas, Polulas, Skarpas, Ntorias, Venier, Skiadas, Basan, Agas, Mylonopoulos, Mimbeli, Merlin owned great lands in Kato Korakiana.

Among all these mansions the ones that are still preserved are the mansion of Skarpa in Kommeno, Theotoki and Merlin in Krevatsula, Milonopoulon in St. Basilios and of Polyla-Bibeli, former hotel "Kastelo" in the center of Kato Korakiana, a unique ornament of the whole island.

"KASTELO", an old medieval tower, which renovated in the end of the previous year from the Italian baron Luka Bibeli, has a unique architectural structure as the Florentine, the Gothic and the East style coexist harmoniously creating an optical nirvana and the memory of an old romantic time.
During this century the tower "hospitalized" many famous personalities such as the Emperor of Austria Fragiskos Iosif, the King of Italy Victor Emanouele, the Emperor of Ethiopia Haile Selasie and the King of Greece George B’ who was a permanent resident from 1936 to 1940.

The 12 churches of the village, which have been built from 13th to 18th century, are very important but those that really dominate are Zoodoxos Pigi, St. Nikolaos, and St. Dimitrios.

Kato Korakiana has owned a school since 1854, in the contrary of all the other villages in Corfu. The school was established with the help of the famous Eptanisian poet Gerasimos Markoras who is supposed to be our first teacher. In his honor the philharmonic of Kato Korakiana was taken his name.
During the First World War Ipsos was an important merchant port which served not only Kato Korakiana, but also the whole South Corfu.

Kefallonia Kefalonia Island Greece - Kefalonia Greece - Tour and Travel guide Hotels Flights

2010-05-16T12:11:00.000-07:00

Kefallonia Island Greece - Kefalonia Greece - Tour and Travel guide Hotels Flights

KEFALONIA sits in the clear blue Ionian sea between Corfu and Zakynthos. It is larger than the other islands and a good deal quieter having largely escaped the attentions of the tourist boom.

Kefalonia is one of Greece’s best secrets and once voted 10th in a world scenic beauty league, thus it demands and deserves exploration. Beautiful golden beaches, lofty mountains providing the scenic backdrop to hundreds of secluded white coves - many accessible only by sea, the strange cliffs like open-air sculptures, the cave of St. Gerassimos - the island’s patron saint, the Cave of Drongorati, the underground lake at Mellisani, churches and monasteries perched precariously on cliffs, timeless villages. Spectacular scenery, traditional housing and excellent wine are all worth studying them.

Kefalonia’s major settlements are Argostoli - the capital of the island - Poros, Scala, Lassi, Katelios, Svoronata, Lixouri, Sami, Asos. It’s archeological remnants refer to a civilization which developed thousand years ago and archeological excavations have brought to light many Mycenean graves. The history of Kefalonia is long and very interesting.

The island was under the Turkish empire at the decade of 1460’s and after under the Venetians and French. Finally England protected the island, until 1864 when all the Ionian islands joint the rest Greece.

How to get Kefallonia:

By Road and Sea: Kefallonia is serviced from Piraeus to Sami. Also from Patra to Sami one ferry daily. From Kyllini (on the Peloponnese) to Argostoli. It has also connection with many other Ionian islands
By air: There are two flights daily on Olympic Airways from Athens to the Airport of Kefalonia. Olympic Airways of Kefalonia: (0671) 28808

Getting around Kefallonia

Kefalonia is an unspoiled get-away island with so many beauties which deserve exploring. Here are some ways to find the "secret paths to Paradise".
By boat: Exploration by boat is a treat in itself. You will be surprised by the many peculiar shaped coves and who knows you may have the luck to be the first that he will probably discover a new one.

By ferry: There is a daily ferry-boat to Lixouri (a fun, 30 min.voyage between two points of land jutting into the Argostolian Gulf).

By bus: There is frequent public bus connection servicing the whole island whose schedules are posted at the bus station. However Kefalonia is so big and hilly that it takes forever to get to most places. So take your time and relax viewing the beauties.

By Car or Moped: There are 20 rental car companies in town, so shop around and book one early. You can also rent a jeep or a moped. Mopes are too slow to cover much ground, but they can be a lot of fun because the roads on wealthy Kefalonia are very good.

Where to go

Argostoli (the island’s capital), is an amusing, lively modern town full of boutiques, clothing shops, food markets, galleries, handcrafts. We recommend you some special products such as Gentillini (one of the very best wines in all Greece) and Kefalonia’s "Golden" brand honey uniquely rich and tasty.
Kefalonia is famous for its monasteries spread throughout the villages, many of which (including the famous one of St. Gerasimos) are considered to be wonder - working. Also, the cave of St. Gerassimos, the Cave of Drongorati, the underground lake at Mellisani, the Koutavos lagoon, the cesspools (a very strange geological phenomenon), 2,5 klm out of Argostoli, are all worth visiting and exploring.

One of the islands highlights is the incredible Corgialenios Historical and Cultural Museum where among the superb collection of artisans tools, costumes, European antiquities left by occupiers, there is also the collection of black-and-white photos 1904 depicting Argostoli as it was before the earthquakes. In addition the archeological museum and a tour in Galliga Vineyards are an absolute must for everyone visiting the island!!

Entertainment here is a low key. You will find café bars and clubs around the Argostoli peninsula, elsewhere you’ll find that Kefalonias ( and most visitors who come to share their island paradise) have little need of such diversions. After each glorious day of discovery, or lazing on a sun-drenched beach, the world simply retires to the taverna, in time - honored style, to swap tales over a bottle or two of the excellent wine.

Kefallonia Beaches

Kefallonia has many beautiful beaches, each one with its own character.
Myrtos beach is one of the most beautiful beaches of Greece. It is almost 10km long and is covered by fine pearl-colored pebbles with blue waters.

Makris Yialos and Platis Yialos beaches in Lassi, where is also the cave of St. Gerasimos, shelve gently into beautiful clear waters which are busy with watersports.

There is also Spartia, a beach of rock and sand, an ideal place for quiet relaxation.

Lourdas bay is one of the largest bays of Kefalonia fringed by over two miles of sand and shingle beach.

Scala, Poros, Katelios, are also golden beaches of Kefallonia that are worth visiting.

Useful Information
Area code 0671 (Argostoli, Lixouri, Scala)

Banks
National Bank of Greece and most of the major banks

Post Office is located on Lithostroto street.

Argostoli Hospital tel 24 461

Tourist Police tel 22 200

New South Wales State Attractions and Touristic Centers

2010-05-16T09:53:00.000-07:00

NEW SOUTH WALES tour and travel guide, hotels, cheap flights

New South Wales is the site of Captain Cook's original landing in Australia. It also is the place where the first permanent settlement was established. Today it is the most populous state and has the country's largest city and A home for 2000 Olympics -- SYDNEY.

New South Wales Attractions

New South Wales General Information - General Information about New South Wales.

Sydney
With the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, Sydney is the image of Australia that is known around the World - the Aussie city par excellence. It has all the vigour of a world class city with places like Darling Harbour, The Rocks, King's Cross, the legendary Bondi and Manly beaches, just to name a few.

Around Syndey
There are some very interesting places and superb national parks around Syndey area, including Botany Bay which is Captain Cook's first landing point in Australia. You can also find the second oldest national park in the world, Royal National Park. Other places of interest are Paramatta, which is the place for first farm settlement and Penrith, the most westerly of Sydney's satellite towns, at the feet of the Blue Mountains.

Blue Mountains
Tired of City life? If you are in search of some peace, the Blue Mountains is the place for you. It has some truly fantastic scenery, excellent bushwalks and clean air. The blue gaze which gave the mountain their name is the result of the fine mist of oil given off by eucalyptus trees. A visit to Jenolan Caves, the best-known limestone caves in Australia is a must for every visitor.

North Coast
This NSW North Coast is extremely popular for excellent beaches, challenging bushwalks and superb scenery. Situated along this coast is a surfing Mecca and every traveller's favourite destination Byron Bay. Newcastle has some clean beaches with world-class surf. Visit some of the best Australian wineries in Hunter Valley.

Outback
If you have a taste for wilderness, wildlife and wide open spaces, there is nowhere else quite like Broken Hill, which is proudly termed as the capital of capital of Outback New South Wales. Here you will find a combination of natural wonders and inimitable lifestyle that is inspiring, dramatic, unique and accesible.

Canberra
Canberra is Australia's most talked about city because it is the political epicentre of the nation. This is the home for some impressive architectures in astonishingly well groomed surroundings including Parliament Building.

Rest Of New South Wales
Other places of interest in New South Wales include Lismore, Tamworth, Wollongong, Bathurst, Lithgow, Waggga Wagga , Dubbo and Snowy Mountains.

QUEENSLAND - Sunshine State Attractions and Touristic Centers

2010-05-16T09:46:00.000-07:00

QUEENSLAND - Sunshine State General Tour Information and Travel guide

Queensland is the second largest State in Australia, occupying almost one quarter of the entire island continent. It is seven times the size of Great Britain, four and a half times the size of Japan or Germany and two and half times the size of Texas. The glorious sun and surf of the world's best beaches, lush rainforest, rugged outback, tropical islands, unique plant and animal life and the largest expanse of coral reefs in the world contribute to making Queensland one of the world's most diverse holiday destinations. It is said of Queensland... "beautiful one day, perfect the next".

Attractions of QUEENSLAND

Interesting places in Queensland:

General Information about Queensland

Gold Coast
Popular attractions are Sea World, the largest marine park in the southern hemisphere; Dreamworld, offering eleven themed worlds of fun (including the fabulous Tiger Island); and Warner Bros Movie World, billed as Hollywood on the Gold Coast. You can hand-feed wild lorikeets at Currumbin Sanctuary, home to koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, wombats and other Australian fauna.

Brisbane

Brisbane is Australia's third largest city and the state capital of Queensland. Not so long ago, the rest of Australia considered it little more than an overgrown country town, but it has shirked off this unwelcome reputation to become one of the country's most progressive centres.

Whitsunday Islands

The Great Barrier Reef, World Heritage Wet Tropics Rainforest, offshore islands, golden sandy beaches, cool mountain streams, waterfalls, mangrove everglades, crocodiles, cassowaries, butterflies, fishing, tropical

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Australia is one of the most unique contries on Earth, and our wildlife is even more interesting. At Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, you can experience the best Australian Wildlife has to offer, at the best place in Australia. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the world's premier Koala and Australian Wildlife Park.

Alice Springs Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T09:38:00.000-07:00

Alice Springs Travel Guide and General Tour Information

The Alice Springs (population 20,000) is a pleasant modern town, smack in the middle of Australia, built on the banks of the usually-dry Todd River. At first appearance it's so civilised that it can be a real disappointment to those expecting saloons on every corner and colourful bush characters, but stick around and explore the area and you'll begin to appreciate the flavour of this desert community. The town was founded as a staging point for the overland telegraph line in 1870, although its growth has occurred only in the last 30 years. The road south to Adelaide was only fully sealed in 1987.

Alice Springs Attractions

Henley-on-Todd Regatta - This world famous race day features a variety of team events plus individual competition in events such as the surf-ski rescue. The day culminates in a pirate battle involving a great deal of flour.

Todd Mall - Todd Mall is a pedestrian street through the central business district. The Mall boasts trees and plants to make a pleasant stroll through the monthly Sunday Markets or to provide a bit of shade for those stopping at one of the many cafes for a snack or a cool drink.

Trephina Gorge is one of the many gorges and gaps around Central Australia providing photographers with some magnificent sights and colours. This rocky outcrop is found along the Rim Walk.

Palm Valley lies at the end of a 4WD only track near Hermannsburg. It's quite an adventure to drive there and getting there is half the fun! The track goes along and through the bed of the usually dry Finke River - the oldest river in the world. The tall palms are Red Cabbage palms and the valley also has the smaller cycad palms.

Around Alice Springs
There are a sprinkling of old buildings, such as the Stuart Town Gaol, the Old Courthouse and the John Flynn Memorial Museum. Sites of interest include the Museum of Central Australia, the cemetery where Albert Namatjira and Harold Lasseter are buried, and the Frontier Camel Farm. The town makes a perfect base for exploring the nearby MacDonnell Ranges, which have superb gorge and cliff scenery and plenty of wildlife around water holes. There are a host of natural attractions in the ranges, including Standley Chasm, Simpson's Gap and the Emily & Jessie Gap Conservation Reserve. The Devil's Marbles Conservation Reserve, halfway between Alice Springs and Tennant Creek consists of unusual scattered spherical boulders. Aboriginal mythology has it that they were laid by the Rainbow Serpent.

Accommodation Hotels of Alice Springs

Business
Name
Address
Town
Post
Code
Ph BH
Alice Springs Pacific Resort 34 Stott Terrace ALICE SPRINGS 871 61 89 526 699
Alice Flag Motor Inn 27 Undoolya Road ALICE SPRINGS 870 61 89 52 2322
Alice Springs Caravan Park Larapinta Drive ALICE SPRINGS 870 61 89 52 2547
Stuart Caravan Park Larapinta Drive ALICE SPRINGS 870 61 89 52 2547

The Northern Territory of Australia Attractions and Touristic Centers

2010-05-16T09:34:00.000-07:00

The Northern Territory is the least populated and most barren area of Australia. It encompasses the Red Heart of the country: an untamed, picture-book, surreal wilderness at the centre of the national psyche. The territory has been administered by NSW, South Australia, and the Federal Government, but has been self-governing since 1978. Nearly a quarter of its population are Aboriginal people, who have reclaimed ownership of some 45% of their land since the passing of the Aboriginal Land Rights (NT)Act in 1976.

The Northern Territory of Australia Attractions and Place to See

Alice Spring
Alice Spring, the "Red Center". It is located within the MacDonnell Ranges, the surrounding area is downright astonishing. It is no longer an outback town but a convenient tourist center for exploring the real outback. It was war and the WW II Darwin bombing that created a comparable population explosion. as a major military base, postwar rumors about the area's attributes were leaked, creating tourist interest and subsequent development.
Darwin
The Northern Territory's capital city. After WW II, Darwin was rebuilt into a durable, modern center, punctuated here and there by the few surviving historical structures, accented by flowering bougainvillea, frangipani blossoms, and swaying palms.
Kakadu National Park
Kakadu National Park is one of the natural marvels of Australia. Here, a variety of superb landscapes, and some of Australia's best Aboriginal rock art can be found. The vast park is 153 km by road from Darwin and stretches more than 200 km north to south and 100 km east to west. It is on the World Heritage list both for its natural and cultural importance. Part of the park is Aboriginal land and there are three contentious uranium mining leases operating in the east.
Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas)
Both of these places are located in Uluru National Park, which contains one of the world's great natural wonders and one of the Australia's top tourist destinations. It is also the heart of Australia - the big red heart. Uluru National Park encompasses more than 400 plant species, 150 types of birds, and about 25 mammal varieties in a sensitive geological landscape that contrasts drastically from sandy flat plains to those big old rocks.
Ayers Rock is a breathtaking sight - a 650 million year old sandstone behemoth, rising 348 meters above the pancake like surrounding plain. The Olgas just as old and once much larger than Ayers Rock, are a jumble of more rounded monoliths, separated by gorges, valleys, and chasms.

South Australia Attractions and Touristic Centers

2010-05-16T09:28:00.000-07:00

South Australia Attractions and Touristic Centers

S o let's get this straight . . . I can take a champagne breakfast balloon ride over Australia's award-winning Barossa vineyards, have lunch on a paddlewheeler gliding down the mighty River Murray with pelicans for company and enjoy dinner in a roulette-playing railway station. You can also enjoy the same clean air, attractive climate, clear blue seas and magnificent beaches as the rest of Australia - but with an added dimension . . .

South Australia Attractions

Adelaide
Meet Australia's most elegant - and surprising - city. Charm is written all over Adelaide's face. See it in North Terrace's fine cultural boulevard, at the boutiques and arcades of Rundle Mall or the easy-going warmth of its people. Surprises are around every corner, explore a rainforest inside the spectacular Bicentennial Conservatory, or raise a sail at the historic Port and who could go by the fabulous casino located within a railway station! Essentially Adelaide is cruising the River Torrens to the Zoo, exploring the gallaries, museums and gardens and then browsing through the East End or Central Market.

The Barossa Valley
The Barrossa, a timeless region with its own very special culture is renowned for growing the highest quality grapes and producing premium wine. One weekend in August each year, the Barossa Winemakers invite you to enjoy their hospitality when they combine with South Australia's finest restaurants to present the Barossa Classic Gourmet Weekend.

Flinders Ranges
A chance to explore the amazing flora, fauna and fabulous rock formations. You can horse ride, bushwalk or just relax and soak up the atmosphere.

Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island is the third largest island of Australia. Separated from the mainland nine thousand years ago, Kangaroo Island has many plants and animals no longer found elsewhere. This unique flora and fauna offers visitors an unparalleled wildlife experience.

Western Australia Attractions and Touristic Centers

2010-05-16T09:17:00.000-07:00

Occupying one third of the continent, Western Australia is the largest state in Australia, approximately the same size as Western Europe. The coastline stretches 12,500km and is fringed by the blue waters of the Indian and Southern Oceans.

Western Australia Attractions and Places to See

Perth
A sunny, mediterranean tempered city, Perth sits on the edge of the Swan River and is surrounded by lush parks and botanic gardens. Fresh breezes from the Indian Ocean flow through the city creating a warm, hospitable atmosphere. There are 19 sandy beaches on the coast around Perth and it is the only city in Australia where you can see the sun set over the Ocean.

The Golden HeartLand
Kalgoorlie is the major centre of this region. The Golden Heartlands lies on the edge of the Nullarbor Plain. Inland the landscape is forbidding, while the coastline stretches out in long, empty beaches.

The Kimberleys and Unique North
This is a very large and diverse region. The beautiful mediterranean climate makes it an ideal place to visit at any time of the year. Attractions vary from camel riding along a beach to the Pearling town of Broome and from exploring 130 million year old Dinosaur footprints set in limestone to the rugged beauty of the Kimberley Ranges.The north of Western Australia is indeed unique, so if you plan to visit leave yourself plenty of time, because there's a lot of ground to cover!

Albany and the Margaret River
Once an important whaling township, Albany is a town of historic signficance in the region, it is also the site of the first European settlement in Western Australia. Margaret River is another remarkable town on the Southwest coast. Surrounded by Leeuwin- Naturaliste National Park, Margaret River is becoming a well reputed wine making area and the surfing at Margaret River is world famous.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Tour and Travel Guide Australia

2010-05-16T08:53:00.000-07:00

History of Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

The Lone Pine Cafe as it was in 1948

Established in 1927 by Mr Claude Reid, Lone Pine has grown to be the world's premier koala park.It has come a long way since starting with koalas named Jack and Jill. It now houses over 130 marsupials. Apart from that Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary also have 100 species of Australian native animals under its care.Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is named after a single Hoop Pine that stands on our 22 Hectare sanctuary in Brisbane, Queensland.

Australian Native Animals

A cute wombat!

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is home to many interesting and unique Australian Native Animals.
Among the native animals here are:
Koala Bears
Wombat
Kangaroo
Devil
Possum

New South Wales NSW Outback Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T08:50:00.000-07:00

General Tour Information and Travel guide About Outback

You don't have to travel to central Australia to experience red-soil country, limitless horizons and vast blue skies. Just come to the far west of New South Wales. This place is rough, rugged and sparsely populated. If you have a taste for wilderness, wildlife and wide open spaces, there is nowhere else quite like Outback New South Wales. Wherever you go in Outback New South Wales, you'll find a combination of natural wonders and inimitable that is inspiring, dramatic, unique and accessible.
Watch a mob of red kangaroos at sunset, a lizard skittering up the trunk of a river red gum and a flock of ibis rising off a lake. The NSW Outback is also the backdrop to the heritage of Aboriginal culture.

Attractions in Outback

Broken Hill

The unofficial capital of Outback New South Wales, Broken Hill is aproud, independent city with rip-roaring history. Broken Hill is surrounded by national parks that will introduce you to the natural wonders of the region. Main attraction in this area include Broken Hill City Art Gallery, Royal Flying Doctor Service, School of the air, Sculpture site, The Living Museum and Family Hotel.

Central Darling

Close to the junction of the Cobb and Barrier Highways, the historic Darling River town of Wilcannia is an ideal starting point for a circuit tour of some of the treasures of Central Darling. Less than a hundred kms to the north-west, White Cliffs is one of the most fascinating towns in the country. The opal diggings made the town the legend.

Mungo Country

At the south-western corner of New South Wales, Mungo Country is a region rich in scenic and cultural treasures, where the stark grandeur of the outback meets the fertile, irrigated farmlands along the Murray River. Situated at the junction of the Murray and Darling Rivers, the town of Wentworth is endowed with a splendid legacy of historic buildings from the days when rivers were the arteries to the interior of the continent. Daily river cruises from Mildura give a glimpse of life on the river as it was in the days of the paddle steamers, as well as a close-up look at the rivers' magnificent bird life and majestic scenery.

North Shore Coast Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

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General Tour Information and Travel guide About North Shore

The New South Wales north coast is extremely popular - and with good reason. As well as the excellent beaches, the numerous national parks in the ranges offer wildlife, challenging bushwalks and superb scenery.This coast includes so called a surfing mecca- Byron Bay.

Attractions in North Shore

Hunter Valley

The Hunter Valley is known for two curiously diverse products - coal and wine. Wineries here date bak to the 1860s and you'll find many of Australia's best-known wine names here. There are more 40 vineyards in the Lower Hunter and others in the Upper Hunter. Generally these vineyards are open for tastings daily and many of them have picnic and barbeque facilities.

Newcastle - North Shore

Newcastle is NSW's second largest city and is considered to be the major industrial and commercial centre. Newcastle is a relaxed and friendly place. Newcastle is full of clean beaches, many with world class surfs. The main beach, Newcastle Beach is very just next to the centre of the town.

Byron Bay - North Shore

Byron Bay is one of the most attractive stop on the whole east coast. This is a relaxed little seaside town with superb beaches and agreat climate - warm in winter, hot in summer. Byron is the meeting place for alternative cultures and it is a surfing mecca. The surf below Cape Byron is just superb. Ther are good music venues and some great shops. Main Beach is the good swimming beach and sometimes has decent surf.

Accomodation and hotels of North Shore

The following are a few relatively inexpensive places to stay:
Business Name Location Phone Number
Backpacker's Newcastle 42 Denison St. (049) 69 3436
Great Northern Hotel Newcastle (049) 29 4961
Backpackers Holiday Village Hostel Byron Bay (066) 85 7660
Backpackers Inn Byron Bay (066) 85 8231
Cape Byron Lodge Byron Bay (066) 85 6445

Melbourne Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T06:33:00.000-07:00

General Travel Information and Tour Guide about Melbourne

With more than a quarter of its population born overseas, Melbourne provides a unique blend of European and Asian lifestyles. It is Australia's cultural, sporting, shopping and culinary capital. It is the home of big events : The Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Melbourne International Festival of Arts, Australian Tennis Open, the Melbourne Cup, and etc.

Melbourne is now known officially as the 'World's Most Liveable City'. This is the city of contrasts - with something for everyone. It is the Australian experience which breaks the mould. Melbourne - the Getaway to Victoria.

Attractions Melbourne and places to go

Cooks' Cottage
Built in 1755 in Great Ayton, England. this building was purchased in 1933 by Sir Russell Grimwade as a centenary gift to the State of Victoria. It was rebuilt in the beautiful Fitzroy Gardens to commemorate the voyages of this outstanding navigator.

Fitzroy Gardens
The beautiful Fitzroy Gardens contain The Conservatory, Cook's Cottage, The Fairy Tree and model village. The Conservatory and Cook's Cottage are open daily.

Museum of Victoria
Houses more than 15 million interesting objects. The collections cover anthropology, astronomy, arms, photography and social history.

Rialto Towers
The Rialto Towers observation deck is one of the city's newest and most popular attractions. Melbourne's first tourist viewing platform, it is located on level 55 of the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere, offering spectacular 360 degree views of the city and the surrounds. Be sure not to miss the large theatrette on the ground floor showing Melbourne and Victoria's major tourist attractions.

Royal Botanic Gardens
Plant collections from around the world are set in a magnificent 19th century landscape with great views.

Royal Melbourne Zoo
Royal Melbourne Zoo is home to around 400 species of Australian and exotic animals from all over the world. Situated 10 minutes from Melbourne city, in 22 hectares of landscaped gardens, you will find animals living in environments designed to resemble their native habitats.

Accommodation, Hotels and Motels for Melbourne visitors

Business
Name
Address
Town
Post
Code
Ph BH
All Seasons Swanston Hotel 195 Swanston Street MELBOURNE 3000 61 3 9663-4711
Grand Hyatt Melbourne 123 Collins Street MELBOURNE 3000 61 3 9657-1234
Centra Melbourne on the Yarra Spencer Street MELBOURNE 3000 61 3 9629-511
City Square Inn 67 Swanston Street MELBOURNE 3000 61 3 9654-7011
City Square Motel 67 Swanston Street MELBOURNE 3000 61 3 9654-7011
Georgian Court 21 George Street MELBOURNE 3002 61 3 9419-6353

Perth Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T06:29:00.000-07:00

Things to do in Perth travel?

Perth is pleasantly sited on the Swan and Canning rivers, with the cerulean Indian Ocean to the west and the ancient Darling Ranges to the east. It claims to be the sunniest state capital in Australia and the most isolated capital city in the world. Here are some of the places to see:

Kings Park is very much the lungs of the city centre and affords superb views across Perth and the river. It includes a 17-hectare Botanic Garden and a section of natural bushland. In spring, there's a cultivated display of WA's famed wild flowers.

Interesting buildings include the excellent Berndt Museum of Anthropology, in the Social Sciences Building of the University of WA. This is one of Australia's finest collections of traditional and contemporary Australian Aboriginal art, combining material from Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory and the south-west, desert and Kimberley regions of WA.

Underwater World, north of the city at Hillarys Boat Harbour, has an extraordinary underwater tunnel aquarium displaying 2500 examples of 200 marine species including sharks and stingrays. There are also interactive displays such as a Touch Pool, Microworld and an audiovisual theatre. In season there are three-hour whalewatching trips to see humpbacks.

Perth residents claim the city has the best beaches and surf of any Australian city. There are calm bay beaches on the Swan River at Crawley, Peppermint Grove and Como. Or you can try a whole string of patrolled surf beaches on the Indian Ocean coast, including Perth's very popular nude beach at Swanbourne. Scarborough is known for its beachside café society, and is great for experienced surfers and sailboarders. Perhaps the best beach of all is on secluded Carnac Island, frequented by the odd marooned human and some sea lions.

Perth Hotels and Motels Accommodation

Perth has many places to stay, ranging from five-star hotels as luxurious as any in the world to backpackers' dormitories. You should be easily able to find accommodation to suit your budget and in a convenient location.

Airways City Hotel 195, Adelaide Terrace PERTH 6000 +619 323 7799
Perth Parmelia Hilton Hotel Mill Street PERTH 6000 +619 322 3622
Hyatt Regency Hotel 99, Adelaide Terrace PERTH 6000 +619 225 1234
Miss Maud European Hotel 99 Murray Street PERTH 6000 +619 325 3900
Park Royal Hotel 54, Terrace Road PERTH 6000 +619 481 3410
Perth Ambassador Hotel 196, Adelaide Terrace PERTH 6000 +619 325 1455
Mercure Hotel 10, Irwin Street PERTH 6000 +619 325 0481
Novotel Langley Perth 221, Adelaide Terrace PERTH 6000 +619 221 1200
Princes Hotel Perth 334 Murray Street PERTH 6000 +619 322 2844
Sheraton Perth Hotel 207, Adelaide Terrace PERTH 6000 +619 325 0501
Sullivan's Hotel 166 Mount's Bay Road PERTH 6000 +619 321 8022

Perth Travel and Night Life

Perth has a variety of clubs playing a variety of music from commercial top 20 to underground house to jungle and hiphop to funk to alternative. Also the style of music at a club may vary due to the DJ who is playing that nite. Clubs (and dancefloors) in Perth tend to be on the small side but it is the small atmosphere that can keep the floor pumping. Entry can be free early in the nite, or between $5 to $10 Aussie dollars on a regular nite. Special functions can cost more. You don't usually get drink vouchers with your entry - there's normally an hour of drink specials, again usually early in the nite. The age limit to get in is 18 and Photo ID may be required at some clubs. Hope this guide gives you some idea of what's happening here - it's happening !!!

Friday
Aqua: DJ Vibe Tribe: DJs Ollie, JJ and Gully: 10-6am
Arcadia: House, techno and Disco: DJ Garrick
Buzz Bar: Roots: 100% pure funk: DJ Birdie
Connections: DJ Darren Briais with guests: 10pm-late
Saturday
Aqua: DJ Vibe Tribe: DJs Ollie, JJ and Gully: 10-6am
Brannigans: Funk, soul and dance: DJ Gary Farmer: 9pm-4am:
Brooklyn: Commercial dance with an edge: DJ Chase and Garick Simeon
DC: Gravity
Loft: Live - Alternative DJs Paul Reboul Richard Cliche
Sunday
Aqua: Fungle Junk: DJs Tom C, Finesse, B-Jam, Echoic with weekly guests Greg Packer and Zig Zag
Buzz Bar: Spirit: Soul, swing beat, funk and rap: DJs Birdie, Paul Clarke and the S-man: 6pm-late
Krush: Fat Fluid: hiphop, electro, breakbeat house: DJs Dan, Mig and Royce: 8-12
Loft: Back to the 80's: New romantic and Gothic classics: doors open 8pm, $3 between 8-9pm

Ballarat Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T03:30:00.000-07:00

General Information

Ballarat is part of the "Goldfields", Australia. When gold was first discovered in the quiet little town of Clunes in 1851, a great era was ushered in.Prospectors from all over the world swarmed to this fabulously rich region and fortunes were made overnight during the intense and frantic activity that followed.

And while the goldrush has passed into history, you can still capture the spirit of its pioneers at such places as Sovereign Hill. - experience the life of the 1850s goldrush recreated in faithful and fascinating detail.

Attraction

The City of Bendigo has a long and colourful history. The huge amount of gold discovered here has left an extravagant mark, making it the most splendid mid-19th Century Victorian city in Australia. The classic streetscapes of public buildings, hotels and fountains at Pall Mall and View Street, not to mention the Bendigo Capital Threatre, are testimony to this.

Sovereign Hill - Here you can experience the life of the goldrush days. Located 113 kilometres north west of Melbourne in Ballarat, is Sovereign Hill. An outdoor museum built on the site of what is known as the richest alluvial goldrush in the world. Here you will discover the story of Ballarat's first 10 years following the discovery of gold in 1851. See the recreations of businesses, buildings, equipment, working plant and coaches which are known to have existed during the 1850s.

Accommodation

Business
Name
Address
Town
Post
Code
MARLBOROUGH HOUSE 115 Wattle St. BENDIGO 3550

The Barossa Valley Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T03:25:00.000-07:00

Barossa Valley Things to do.

The Barrossa, a timeless region with its own very special culture is renowned for growing the highest quality grapes and producing premium wine.

The picturesque Barossa is one of Australia's best known destinations. Its strong wine culture, natural beauty and sheer charm and hospitality provide the ingredients for a perfect stay.

The Barossa produces over half Australia's quality wine and many major wine producers make their homes there.

The first impression is of vineyards in a manicured landscape spreading across the valley floor into the ranges, then wineries, and church spires surrounded by the cluster of a small village or township.

For a change, a short drive through the Barossa Ranges, where the natural bushland blends with the more recent high country vineyards, and there is an outstanding view of the valley from Menglers Hill. On the crown of the range the Kaiser Stuhl Conservation Park provides excellent bush walking. The Heysen Walking Trail traverses the ranges as does the Mawson Cycling Trail. Trail maps and historic guides are available for this area. South of Kaiser Stuhl the bushland gives way to a stark, rock studded landscape with extensive views.

Barossa Valley Accommodation, Hotels and Motels

Whether you walk in with back pack, come in your car or in a coach party, it assured that your nights in the Barossa are as fondly remembered as the days; part of the Barossa experience.

Hotels provide overnight hospitality and meals in the traditional way. Some have changed little since last century, others have added modern personal facilities, but their character remains. Hearty meals, no-frills accommodation, great value, and good company are bound to be found.

Motels are spread throughout, in the towns and countryside. Most have a licensed restaurant, swimming pool, spa, some - a tennis court, laundry service, and all the room amenities one expects today. There are conference facilities and services. Here are some posibilities.

The Kaeslar Cottages, Nuriootpa,(085)622711
Marble Lodge, Barrossa Valley, (085)642478
Barossa Carnvan Park, Lyndoch, (085)645789
Barossa Country Collages, Lyndoch, (085)632019
Barossa House, Tanunda, (085)642366

Transportation

It is a compact, colourful valley, between three and eleven kilometres wide, and about thirty kilometres long. At around 50 kilometres or an hour's drive from Adelaide, it is conveniently accessible for day trips. But the Barossa takes time to get to know, so plan for a longer stay.

Bike Hire
Zinfandel Tea Rooms, 58 Murray Street, Tanunda. Ph: 63 2822
The Bunkhaus Travellers' Hostel, Barossa Valley Way & Nuraip Road. Nuriootpa. Ph: 62 2260
Bus Service
Barossa-Adelaide Passenger Service.
Transport from Barossa to Gawler and Adelaide.
Depots: Angaston Bakery, Angaston; Clark's Newsagency, Tanunda;
Dermody Petroleum, Nuriootpa; B.P. Service Station, Gawler.
Service from Gawler to Barossa via Freeling and Seppeltsfield.
Also Kapunda to Gawler Service available. Ph: 64 3022
Car Hire
Caltex Tanunda, Murray Street, Tanunda. Ph: 63 2677
Taxi
Barossa Valley Taxi Service, Tanunda. Ph: 63 3600

Darwin Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T03:17:00.000-07:00

Darwin General Tour Information and Travel Guide

Darwin's colourful past as a tropical outpost add character to today's city of five star hotels, fine dining and an international airport. Its tropical climate and rich mix of races give it an exotic character which makes it diffcult to compare with any of the other state capitals. Visitors to Darwin enjoy a relaxed, tropical lifestyle, with wonderful sunsets, city streets shaded by palms, bamboo mango trees and masses of flowering tropical plants like the fragrant Frangipani and the iridescent blooms of the Bougainvillea. Beyond Darwin, the country presents a kaleidoscope of easily accessible touring choices.

Darwin Attractions

Around Darwin
Howard Springs is a crocodile-free swimming hole surrounded by forest. It's about 25 km from the city but can get uncomfortably crowded at weekends. Nevertheless, it's a pleasant spot for an excursion; there are short walking tracks and lots of bird life. Mandorah, a popular beach resort on the tip of Cox Peninsula, is only 10 km across the harbour by boat. The crossing takes about 30 minutes and ferries run three or four times a day from Stokes Hill Wharf. The 400-hectare Territory Wildlife Park is 60 km from Darwin on the Cox Peninsula Road. It has an excellent collection of Australian mammals, fish and reptiles. Nearby Berry Springs Nature Park is a great place for a swim. It has several spring-fed pools and a warm thermal waterfall.

Indo-Pacific Marine & Australian Pearling Exhibition
This excellent aquarium displays living coral ecosystems and an array of exotic creatures associated with coral, such as sea horses, clown fish and butterfly fish. Housed in the same building is the Pearling Exhibition, which deals with the history of the pearling industry and has informative audiovisual displays. The exhibitions are in the Wharf Precinct, once the city's ugly port facility, but now being redeveloped into a tourist drawcard.

The Museum of Arts & Sciences
A highlight of this bright, well-presented museum at Fannie Bay is its collection of Aboriginal art. It's particularly strong on carvings and bark paintings from Arnhem Land, Bathurst and Melville islands. There's also a good collection of artefacts from the Pacific and South-East Asia, including Indonesian ikat (woven cloth), gamelan instruments and a sea gypsies' prahu (floating home) from Sabah, Malaysia.

East Point
This spit of undeveloped bushland north of Fannie Bay is good to visit in the late afternoon when the wallabies come out to feed. A cool breeze usually springs up as you watch the sun set across the bay. There's also a salt-water, jellyfish-free lake where swimming is possible all year round.

Beaches
Darwin has plenty of beaches but you'd be wise to keep out of the water during the wet season because of the deadly box jellyfish. Popular beaches include Mindil and Vestey's. In north Darwin there's a stinger net protecting part of Nightcliff Beach. A stretch of the seven-km Casuarina Beach further east is officially designated for nudie.

Darwin Accommodation Hotels and Motels

Asti Motel Cnr Packard Place and Smith Street DARWIN 800 61 74 78-3733
Darwin Hotel 10 Herbert Street DARWIN 800 61 89 81-9211
Poinciana Inn 84 Mitchell Street DARWIN 800 61 89 81-8111

Sydney Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T03:13:00.000-07:00

General Tour guide and Travel Information About Sydney

Sydney! Some cities are bold and exciting, others are endowed with natural beauty, while some blend dramatic buildings with historic ones. But not many can combine all these things so perfectly and have the added advantage of being located on one of the most magnificent waterways on the earth. Sydney is Austrlia's oldest and largest city and it has plenty to offer to all the visitors. It is a dazzlingly modern city with high buildings, bright colours, legendary beaches, shopping centres and exciting nightlife.

Touristic Attractions of Sydney

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Dubbed as the 'old coat hanger', this magnificent vantage point was completed in 1932 at a cost of $20 million. You can climb the 200 stairs inside the south-eastern pylon for the panoramic views of the harbour and the city. There is a $2 driving toll. Since the bridge can no longer handle the volume of traffic, a tunnel has been built under the harbour, which also attrcats $2 driving toll.

Sydney Opera House

Australia's number one toursit attraction is also one of the world's great performing arts centres and claeary stands out as the symbol of Sydney city. Home of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, the Australian Opera, the Sydney Theatre Company and many other fine entrepreneurs, a visit to this unique attraction is not to be missed. Here you can enjoy free Sunday concert or open-air restaurant watching the harbour life. There are tours of the building everyday between 9am-4pm.

Circular Quay and The Rocks

Circular Quay is the busy hub for both toursits and harbour commuters. From here you can take ferries to Parammata, Manly beach , Toronga Zoo, Darling Harbour and many more interesting places in Sydney. Or you can take harbour cruises to enjoy some of the magnificent harbour and city views. The Rocks, the first White settlement in Sydney, is the historical place near the Circular Quay. The Rocks is full of narrow cobbled streets and fine colonial buildings. With boutiques, cheerful cafes, elegant retaurants, vibrant street entertainment, The Rocks Market and a host of cultural attractions, The Rocks offer a huge variety of exciting activities from which to chose. Just wander around this wonderful area and you would be pretty amazed.
Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour is the centre of entertainment, with huge waterfront leisure and tourist park. The centre of Darling Harbour is the Harbourside festival Marketplace with excellent shops, cafes and other food outlets. The monorail circles Darling Harbour and links it to the city centre, travelling at 1-st floor. From Pyrmont Bridge, the first electrically operated swing-span bridge in the world, you can enjoy the great view of the complex. To the east end of this bridge is Sydney Aquarium with two 'oceanarium' tanks. One oceanarium has sharks, ray and other big fishes and another one has Sydney harbour marine life. Visitors walk below the water level to view these transparent tanks. Also situated in this harbour area are Australian National Maritime Museum and Powerhouse Museum. You can also visit Chinese Garden and Sydeny Entertainment Centre.

Sydney Tower and City Centre

Sydeny tower is on the top of the Centrepoint complex in the city centre. It has a viewing gallery for you to enjoy the city view and beyond from the highest point in Sydney. You can see as far as the Blue Mountains to the west and Wollongong to the south. It also has the revolving restaurants on the summit. Check out beautifully restored Queen Victoria Building if you are shopping maniac, it has more than 200 different shops, cafes and restaurants. After shopping you might want to visit Chinatown for delicious food.

King's Cross

King's Cross is travellers' center in Sydney with greatest concentration of hostels. Once very notorious area, Knig's Cross is still famous for extravagant night life. Between city and the Cross is Woolloomooloo, one of Sydney's colder areas. Then there's Darling Point and even trendier Double Bay.

Taronga Zoo

Take a short ferry ride from Circular Quay and you'll come to Taronga Zoo. This zoo is located on the top of a small hill and has magnificent harbourside setting. It is home to more than 3,000 animals from all around the world. Taronga Zoo is open every day from 9.00am. Excellent place for day picnic!

Manly beach

Manly looks more like a small resort and very popular for weekend getout. Here you can visit Oceanworld or head for Manly scenic walk or simply enjoy the beach. Manly is just about 30 minutes by ferry from the Circular Quay. Known for decades as one of Australia's greatest surfing beaches, Manly is a peninsula, bounded by the sea on three sides. There are 18 beaches, coves and inlets to swim, sail in and enjoy the sunshine.
Bondi beach

Bondi beach is the most famous of Sydney beaches.

Accomodation Hotels and Motels of Sydnes

There's wide variety of accomodation available in Sydney, including hostels, motel and luxury hotels. In summer, the peak tourist season, the accomodation rates risejust about everywhere. For longer term stays, it may be better off renting flats of shared accomodation. King's Cross has the largest concentration of hostels.
The following are a few central and relatively inexpensive places to stay:
Business Name Location Phone Number
YWCA Hostel Wentworth Ave 264 2451
CB Private Hotel 417 Pitt Street 211 5115
Plane Tree Lodge Kings Cross 356 4551
Highfield House Private Hotel Kings Cross 358 1552
The Original Backpackers Kings Cross 356 3232
The Travellers' Rest King's Cross 358 4606
Forbes Terrace 153 Forbes Street, Wooloomooloo 358 4327
Foutain Plaza Darlinghurst 358 6799
Alfred Park Private Hotel Redfern 319 4031
Bondi Beach Guest House Bondi Beach 389 8309

Sydney Transportation

You can fly into Sydney from all over Australia. For budget transportation, you can either travel on trains or buses. Interstate trains are faster than buses and more expensive too. Within Sydney, you can travel from one place to another on public transports like trains, ferries and buses. There are also special bus services for toursits: red Sydney explorer and another Bondi and Bay explorer. There are frequent trains and they are much quicker than the buses. Sydney's ferries are the one of the nicest ways of getting around in Sydney. In addition, you can take taxis or rent a car or hire a bicycle.

Great Ocean Road, Shipwreck Coast, Grampians Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T03:04:00.000-07:00

Great Ocean Road General Information

There are so many places to see and so much to explore in this place. This place forms part of Victoria's Great Southern Touring Route (Great Ocean Road, Shipwreck Coast, Grampians). The Great Ocean Road is an unforgettable journey along the world's most inspiring coastal drive. It's a road that takes you through the contrasts of unique wildlife and fauna in the lush Otway rainforests, to the breathtaking, wind swept drama of the Shipwreck Coast. From Torquay to Apollo Bay the road hugs the coastline. Every line revealing a sight more spectacular than the last. Lets experience the World's Great Ocean Road.

The Great Ocean Road incorporates two of the most beautiful national parks in Australia. First there is the Otway National Park, which is flanked by towering forests on one side and steep cliffs and rugged ocean beaches on the other. This section of the Great Ocean Road presents one of the most unique contrasts of nature.

Great Ocean Road Attractions

The Otway

Otway National Park is a fascinating adventure - raised boardwalks take you deep into primeval rain forest where you can see gullies crowded with tree ferns and ancient towering tress. You can camp at Blanket Bay, horse ride along Station Beach and marvel at the colour of Rainbow Falls. Swim or fish at the unspoilt Aire River.

Loch Ard Gorge

Port Campbell National Park which captures the true spirit of this historic coastline - the 'Shipwreck Coast'. At Loch Ard Gorge the poignant story of the shipwreck of the Loch Ard unfolds. The same rugged elements which caused the wrecks of hundreds of ships along this chave left other marks. The Twelvw Apostles at Port Campbell, a major coastal landmark, is testament to this.

Peterborough - there are more fascinating things to see and do here. Nature is the master sculptor here with exhibits like London Bridge, the Grotto, the Bay of Island. Tucked within the cliffs and coves of this rugged coastline are sheltered beaches, fringed with reefs and rock pools - to explore, swim and enjoy. Ample boat launching and camping facilities are available.

Great Ocean Road Accommodation Hotels and Motels

Business
Name
Address
Town
Post
Code
Ph BH
Billabong Wildlife park Lower Paper Mills Road FYANSFORD 3221 052 29 7072
Dive Experience Dive Centre Pty Ltd 8 Wharf Street QUEENSCLIFF 3225 052 58 4058
Geelong & Coast Motorcycles Tours 82 Bellevue Ave HIGHTON 3216 052 43 3366
Geelong Dive & Outdoor Centre 178 Moorabool Street GEELONG 3220 052 21 3342
Jirrahlinga - Koala & Wildlife Sanctuary Taits Road BARWON HEADS 3227 052 54 2484
MG Sportscar Rides & Tours 23 Crane Court OCEAN GROVE 3226 052 56 1314
Otway Ocean Tours 10 Tulloh Street COLAC 3250 052 32 1081
Otwild Adventures 47 Deans Marsh Road LORNE 3232 052 89 1740
Queenscliff Dive Centre 37 Learmonth Street QUEENSCLIFF 3225 052 58 1188
Serendip Sanctuary 100 Windermere Road LARA 3212 052 82 1584
Surf World Surfing Museum Australia Surfworld Plaza Beach Road TORQUAY 3228 052 61 4606
Torqair Pty Ltd Blackgate Road TORQUAY 3228 052 61 5100

The Southern Wonders Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T03:01:00.000-07:00

The Southern Wonder - Things to do.

The Southern Wonders is a wilderness adventure land. The coastline is a spectacular display of rugged cliffs and pounding surf beaches. Inland, the landscape consists of giant forests, rolling pastures and curving rivers.

Once an important whaling township, Albany is a town of historic signficance in the region, it is also the site of the first European settlement in Western Australia. Margaret River is another remarkable town on the Southwest coast. Surrounded by Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, Margaret River is becoming a well reputed wine making area and the surfing at Margaret River is world famous.

The Southern Wonder Accommodation Hotels and Motels

Earl of Spencer Historic Inn, ALBANY WA,61 98 41-1322
White Star Hotel, ALBANY WA, 61 98 41-1733
Adamsons Riverside Accommodation, MARGARET RIVER, 61 97 57-2013
Margaret River Caravan Park, MARGARET RIVER, 61 97 57-2180
Hocart Lodge, HARVEY WA,61 97 29-1118

Transportation to The Southern Wonder

To see the South of Westren Australia requires some time however there are various day trips available for tourists. Car hire from Perth is ideal and you have the advanyage of travelling along at your own pace, below is a list of day tours available as well as a contact for a suitable car hire place.

Albany and Margeret River Day Tours, Freemantle, 619 324 7755
Mercure Car and Truck Rentals, Perth, 619 483 1462

The Kimberleys and Unique North Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T02:58:00.000-07:00

The Kimberleys: Things to do.

This is a remote area with rugged gorges and sweeping plains which is gaining a reputation as a destination for the adventurous. In late August each year, Broome holds the Shinju Matsuri or Festival of the Pearl. Highlights of the week include the Japanese ball, a race of pearl luggers, the Carnival of Nations and an auction of quality pearls. Derby, more than 2,300 km from Perth by road, is the nearest town to some of the most spectacular gorge country in the world. Windjana Gorge has well-preserved fossil reefs and Tunnel Creek is a natural tunnel gouged through limestone. There are many sights to take in, including a hollow boab which is more than 1,000 years old. Measuring 14 m in diameter, it was once used to hold Abori ginal prisoners in temporary detention. Then there are two lakes - Lake Kununurra and the massive Lake Argyle, measuring nine times the size of Sydney Harbour. Water sports are popular all ye ar round, as are scenic cruises on both lakes. Diamond deposits were discovered in the hills south-west of Lake Argyle in 1981, which resulted in the creation of the world's biggest diamond mine. Fast becoming one of Australia's major tourist attractions is the Bungle Bungle massif - the ancient range of beehive-shaped domes that have attracted wo rld interest since its "discovery" in the last decade.

Accommodation The Kimberleys

There are many and numerous places to see in the North of Western Australia here are some of the more popular places to stay.

DenHam Villas, Shark Bay, 61 99 48 1264
Nanga Bay Resort, Nanga Station, 61 99 48 3392
Beadon Motel Hotel, Onslow, 61 91 84 6002
Ningaloo Reef Resort, Coral Bay, 61 99 42 5934
MonnLight Bay, Broome, 61 91 93 7888

Transportation to The Kimberleys

The Northern part of Westren Australia is dry and rugged and often hard to access during certain times of the year. The recomended form of transport is 4WD as often many of the roads are of the old dirt variety. There are numerous touurs available for the less adventurous and some of the contact details are listedbelow.

Western Autralia Tours, Shark Bay, 61 99 48 7324
Aussie Tour Guides, Perth, 619 264 3987

Kangaroo Island Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T02:55:00.000-07:00

Kangaroo Island - Things to do.

Kangaroo Island is Australia's third largest island and is about 145 kilometres long by 60 kilometres wide.

The whole island is a wilderness refuge untouched by the blights and predators rs that have affected wildlife on the mainland. Many species of plant and animal found here are no longer seen on the mainland.

All manner of water based activities are available on the island. Fish are in plentiful supply, and the island's waters are superb for scuba diving and snorkelling adventures.

Other activities include bushwalking, Birdwatching, Sailing, diving and many more.

Accommodation Kangaroo Island

BLAKENEY- Superb location overlooking the bay.100m to beach. Brick House with three bedrooms sleeps 8. Wood heater, electric blankets, Col TV and BBQ.
TARIFF: medium 3n* from A$65
THE ROOKERY- Well appointed, spacious home set on headland overlooking emu bay with private access to foreshore. 4 bedrooms sleeps 9. Colour TV microwave oven fire in lounge, laundry, phone. Entertaining area with games room BBQ and pool table
TARIFF: premium 3n from A$100
LEY'S COTTAGE- Cosy 2 bedroomed flat overlooking Bay of Shoals, 5 mins drive from shops restaurant and beach. Col TV Sleeps up to 6, linen included
TARIFF: medium 2n* from A$60
PEE WEE LODGE-3 bedroomed house, large well maintained garden, close to shops and foreshore. Col TV gas heater, ceiling fans and microwave, BBQ, phone. Sleeps 9
TARIFF: MEDIUM 1N FROM A$60
MIDDLE RIVER HOMESTEAD & COTTAGES- Large historic stone homestead and two modern cottages , 5 mins drive from Snellings beach, overlooking Middle River, on 98 hectares of private coastal bushland. Homestead sleeps 12(4Br) Cottages sleep 7(3Br) All have wood heater and linen. Share BBQ area and phone.
TARIFF: premium 2n* from A$85
MIDDLE RIVER HEIGHTS- Comfortable farmhouse, birdlife and hiking on property. 3 bedrooms, secluded rural setting with superb sea views. 5 mins drive to Snellings beach. Wood Heater, colour TV BBQ , sleeps 8.
TARIFF: moderate 2n* from A$40

Transportation Kangaroo Island

You can get to the Island in a variety of ways and once there it is easy to get around. The methods od transportation are shown below.

AIRLINES

Emu Airways Phone: 08 2343711 Fax: 08 234 3747
Kendell Airlines Phone: 08 231 9567 Toll Free 008 33 8894

FERRY SERVICES

Kangaroo Island Ferry Connections Phone: 0848 31233
Kangaroo Island Fast Ferries Phone: 08 295 2688 Fax: 08 295 3437

CAR RENTAL Budget Rent-A-CarPhone: (0848) 23133

Cut Price Car / Truck RentalsPhone: (0848) 22787

ISLAND SHUTTLE

Penneshaw - American River - Kingscote and return Phone: 13 1301 Australia-wide

TAXI SERVICE

Airport Coach Service - Kingscote Phone: (0848) 22145 needs to be booked

The Golden Heartland Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T02:53:00.000-07:00

Things to do when travelling visiting Golden Heartland.

Kalgoorlie-Boulder is the major centre of this region. The Golden Heartlands lies on the edge of the Nullarbor Plain. Inland the landscape is forbidding, while the coastline stretches out in long, empty beaches.

Dry eucalypt forest surrounds the area around Kalgoorlie where gold was discovered in the 1890's. The goldmines in this region still produce 70% of Australia's gold. However, the goldrush gave way to a pastoral lifestyleand now it is a rich agricultural region which supports a strong wheat and wool industry.

Accommodation Golden Heartland

Most of the main tourist accomadation venues are located close to eciting places to see, below is a list of some of the more popular.

Ora Banda Historic Inn, GOLDFIELDS WA, 61 90 24-2059
Palace Hotel Kalgoorlie, KALGOORLIE WA, 61 90 21-2788
Madura Pass Oasis Motel, EYRE WA, 61 90 39-3464
Tower Hotel, KALGOORLIE WA, 61 90 21-3211
Ardath Hotel,ARDATH WA, 61 90 65-1046

Transportation to Golden Heartland

Kalgoorie is about a 4 hrs drive from Perth so you probably strugle ro see the sites in one day. Bus tours are pevelant and is not uncommomn for people to drive up and spend the night at one of the motels listed above.

Kakadu National Park Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T02:48:00.000-07:00

Kakadu National Park Tour Guide and General Travel Information

Kakadu National Park is one of the natural marvels of Australia. It encompasses a variety of superb landscapes, swarms with wildlife and has some of Australia's best Aboriginal rock art. The vast park is 153 km by road from Darwin and stretches more than 200 km north to south and 100 km east to west. It is on the World Heritage list both for its natural and cultural importance. Part of the park is Aboriginal land and there are three contentious uranium mining leases operating in the east.

Kakadu National Park Attractions

Attractions include the mysterious looming Nourlangie Rock escarpment, the spectacular rock art site of Ubirr, and Jim Jim and Twin Falls. The best time to visit is probably between May and mid-June, but the most comfortable time is July and August. The rains in the wet season transform the wetlands, with an abundance of plant and animal thriving in the moist conditions. Spectacular animals include crocodiles, turtles, heaps of water birds, and the shy black wallaroo.

Kakadu National Park Hotels, Motels and Accommodation Guide

Asti Motel Cnr Packard Place and Smith Street DARWIN 800 Ph BH: 61 74 78-3733

Whitsunday Islands Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T02:44:00.000-07:00

General Information About Whitsunday Islands

Protected on one side by the Australian mainland and on the other end by the Great Barrier Reef, these islands are in a unique poistion.

Surrounding them are calm, warm waters ideal for sailing, swimming, diving and fishing. Skirting them are wide clear sandy beaches. Covering them are unspoiled tropical rainforests brimming with wildlife and colourful birds.
Whitsunday region consists of over 70 islands, many of them uninhabited. Around them are thousands of reefs and coral cays. The individual islands allow you to choose the kind of holiday you would prefer - peace and tranquility or plenty of things to do on an island packed with exciting adventures.

Whitsunday Islands Attractions

Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the natural wonders of the world. Over 2000 kilometers long and clearly visible from space it is considered to be the largest living 'thing' in the world. Populated by myriads of coral, fish and other species it is one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet. Cairns is the major point of departure for reef trips however as the reef is over 2000 kilometers long there are many other places from which reef cruises depart however Cairns has the best air connections.

Whitsunday Islands - Tandem SkyDive

At 10,000 feet the door opens and the video operator steps out. Attached to the instructor, you are guided on to the same wing. you can see your destination - Hamilton Island. Jump, still attached to the instructor you freefall through 5,000 feet before the chute is opened. Watersports and Skydiving Center instructors on Hamilton Island are Australian and international champions with over 5,000 jumps to their record.
Helijet

If you like to view the green islands, sandy beaches and turquoise waters of the Tropical North from a plane, Helijet have just the thing. The Reef Comber lands you on Hardy Lagoon where you can snorkel and see coral through a semi-submersible submarine.

Whitsunday Islands Paraflying

Take to the skies with a multi-coloured parachute billowing behind you. And when it's time to come down you will have a gentle landing. You can go paraflying on Hamilton Island, South Molle Island, Hayman Island, Daydream Island and Long Island Resort.

Whitsunday Islands Accomodation Hotels and Motels

As usual, there are more expensive and less expensive accomodation sites depending on the quality of stay. Generally, the resorts here offer at least 2 and a half stars rated according to the Australian Automobile Association (AAA) ratings. The ratings are intended to indicate the standard of accomodation offered. This rating is based on the amenities and facilities provided by the establishment at the time of inspections undertaken by AAA.
Since there are over 70 islands there, the accomodation sites would be enormous, therefore, it would not be feasible to list them here. If you would like to have more information, please call the nearest local tourist agency.

The Grampians Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T02:40:00.000-07:00

The Grampians General Tour Guide and Travel Information

Over 400 million years ago, in the place we know as Western Victoria, the earth rose up to form a vast island of mountains called the Grampians. It is an island oasis which for millions of years was pounded by the advancing Southern Ocean.

Over the years, wind, rain and water have carved fantastic shapes in the ancient stone, creating the step craggy slopes and rock formations that thrust majestically upwards from the Earth's crust.

A Grampians experience is like no other. These are the "haunted" mountains. A place of dreamtime legends and Koorie rock art, which is rare in Australia. You'll find records of ceremonies painted in red and white on the walls of many rock shelters. More than 100 rock art sites have been documented. And the wildflowers are a spectacle. Many bloom all year round. Some occur nowhere else on Earth.

The Grampians Attractions

Hall's Gap, named after the early pioneer pastoralist who settled in the area in 1843, is the centre of this magnificent array of massive sandstone ranges, spectacular wildflowers, scenic lakes and creeks, and abundant wildlife. With peaks rising to heights of over 1000 metres (3,400ft), the Grampians form the western extremity of the Great Dividing Range in the Southwest of Victoria. The highest, Mount Mitchell, was climbed and named by Major Mitchell in 1836 and he chose to name the ranges the Grampians because they reminded him of the Grampians in his native Scotland.

In 1984 the Grampians were made a national park, giving appropriate recognition to this superb area with its Aboriginal cave paintings and scenic beauty, and activities including bushwalking, rockclimbing, or sailing and rowing on Lake Bellfield, and trout fishing in the lake and Fyans Creek.

The wildlife and wildflowers are abundant and varied, koalas, kangaroos in particular, with echidnas,possums and platypuses also found. From August to November, the more than 1000 species of ferns and flowering plants are at their most colourful with a wildflower exhibition held annually in September/October. A magnificent variety of sights and activities welcomes the traveller to the Grampians.

The Grampians Accommodation Hotels and Motels

Accommodation Type Phone No
Ararat Central Motel Motel 053 524444
Broxmore Holiday House Motel 053 347827
Coorrabin Motor Inn Motel 053 583933
Goldfields Motor Inn Motel 053 582911
Great Western Hotel Motel Motel 053 562270
Stawell Grampians Gate Caravan Park Resort 053 582376

GIPPSLAND Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T02:30:00.000-07:00

Gippsland Tour Guide and General Travel Information

Gippsland stretches southest of Melbourne from Western Port to the New South Wales border. For those more inclined to natural delights, South Gippsland has Australia most popular National Park, Wilsons Promontory. In the east, it is surround by beaches and lakes. And running to the NSW border is the umspoilt coastline.

GIPPSLAND Attractions

Gippsland is a magnificent place to explore. Places like Gippsland Lakes, Phillip Island and Wilsons Promontory are places that must not miss.

Gippsland Lake - the biggest natural attraction in East Gippsland. Where green dairy pastures give way to open cut mines, and vast waterways and rainforests abound. The attractions are unique and give tourists a view of Australian country life in a picturesque and accessible setting. Nine thousand years ago, a vast system of rivers, lakes, lagoons and islands was enclosed by 140km of the most secluded, untouched ocean beaches in the world - to create the largest inland waterways system in Australia. The Lakes' gentle waters and undisturbed islands provide a haven for a staggering array of wildlife; black swans, pelicans, herons, dolphins, koalas, kangaroos, possums and even wombats.

Phillip Island - just an hour and a half's drive from Melbourne. Its entrance at San Remo offers spectacular views over the Island's fishing fleet which is nestled beneath the Phillip Island Bridge. Yon can see the famous Fairy Penguins on parade at dusk as they make their way up the sand dunes weary after a hard day's fishing. The Island is also a natural home for koalas and shearwaters. You can visit the Seal Rocks and historic French Island, where you will find koalas in abundance and the remains of an old prison farm.

Wilsons Promontory - this is the most southerly tip of Australia you can really come to terms with nature. Go on an overnight walk to the Lighthouse and Sealers Cove or on one of the many shorter walks. Go camping at Tidal River or diving. There are so many private little cobes and inlets to explore and some of the whitest, most untouched beaches can be found within - you'll feel like you're the first person ever to set foot in some of them.

In the south eastern corner, where Victoria narrows to form a sharp point, there exist a wild and untouched land known as The Wilderness Coast. From its towering native gums and rainforests to its wild and windy beaches, this place appears to have suspended in time.

Accommodation and Hotels Motels of GIPPSLAND

Drouin Motor Inn 275 Princes Way DROUIN 3818 61 56 25-3296
Coal Valley Inn 141 Princes Highway MORWELL 3840 61 51 34-6211
Mid Valley Motel 14 Chickerell Street MORWELL 3840 61 51 33-7155
Angus Mc Millan Motor Inn Princes Highway TRARALGON 3844 61 51 74-2381
Latrobe Motel Princes Highway TRARALGON 3844 61 51 74-2338
Inverloch Motel Bass Highway INVERLOCH 3996 61 56 74-3100

The East Coast Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T02:24:00.000-07:00

The East Coast General Information

The best way to view the sunny East Coast of Tasmania is to take a drive along the 408km of the Tasman Highway. The East Coast is the home of many attractive resorts. Activities available include a variety of water sports and the fishing (especially for trevally and salmon) attracts many visitors. In addition to this the large number of National Parks and the wildlife and natural features makes the East Coast a fine place for a holiday.

The East Coast Attractions

Bicheno:A small town on the East Coast , Bicheno is home to a variety of wildlife native to Tasmania. Because of this , both the East Coast Bird Life Park and the Sea Life Centre are located here. If you are interested in the Tasmanian fauna , visiting Bicheno is a must.

Freycinet National Park covers most of the Freycinet Peninsula, just south of the town of Coles Bay. In addition to the natural beauty of the area (including such highlights as Wineglass Bay) there are regularly whales to be seen offshore. The east coast of Tasmania was once noted for its whaling , but now that this has ceased the whales the move along the coast have become a major tourist attraction.

The East Coast Accommodation Motels, Hotels

Freycinet Lodge Freycinet National Park Coles Bay
Bayside Inn 2 Cecilia St. St Helens
Diamond Island Resort Tasman Highway Bicheno

The Flinders Ranges Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T02:20:00.000-07:00

Things to do when travel to Flinders Ranges

A chance to explore the surrounding area and photograph the amazing flora, fauna and rock formations. Horses are available to hire or you may just like to bush walk or just relax and soak up the atmosphere.

You can begin with a trip to the Wilpera pound where you can take a scenic flight or have a look at the old Wilpena Homestead. If road conditions permitting you can take a drive through the Aroona Valley and Brachina Gorge.

The Leigh Creek Coal fields are another place to visit where you can view one of the early drag lines and huge open cut mines. Deep into the Flinders Rangers lies Arkoola an untouched land only accesable by 4WD.

Flinders Ranges Accommodation, Hotels and Motels

Accomadation in the Wilderness of Flinders Rangers is scarse, although camp sites are prevelant. Most accomadation consist of bread and breakfeast environments, however the people and food are great and make your stay unforgetable.

One of the main places to stay is the Rawnsley Park Inn which is a 3000 hectare working sheep station at the foot of Rawnsley Bluff on the Southern corner of Wilpena pond. The Details are shown below:

Rawnsley Park Inn, Rawnsley Bluff,(085) 707765
Blues Bed and Breakfeast, Wilpena Pond, (086) 687775

Flinders Ranges Transportation

The best way to see the Flinders Rangers is to take one of the many tours. However once there there are a variety of ways to see the magnificent sites.

TravelMarvel's budget coach tours, Australia wide, 1 300 300036
Wilpena Pound Joy Flights, Wilpena,(086) 685321
4WD Ridge Top Tours, Rawnsley Bluff, (085) 704356

Brisbane Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T02:11:00.000-07:00

General Tour Guide and Travel Information About Brisbane

By far the largest city in Queensland, Brisbane is not quite what you would expect from a state capital with over 1 million residents. Although there are urban sprawl, high-rise buildings, slow-moving traffic, crowded streets and the other trappings of a business and trade centre, there's little of the pushiness that usually accompanies them. To southerners, used to a more aggressive approach, the atmosphere is slow, even backward - a reputation the city would be pleased to lose - but to most visitors the languid pace is a welcome change, reflecting relaxed taher than regressive attitudes.
Brisbane city, the city of Botanical Gardens, the Queen Street Mall and many other venues will come alive from August 30 - September 8 when they become the focal point for the Brisbane Festival. As Brisbane's major cultural and entertainment festival, the Brisbane Festival will make the most of Brisbane's superb weather and outdoor lifestyle.

Brisbane Attractions

South Bank Parklands

Making the most of Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle, South Bank has wandering performers, free BBQ and picnoc areas, a sandy beach and swimming lagoon, weekend markets and 16 restaurants, cafe and food outlets.
Enjoy the ongoing program of entertainment, or take a look at South Bank Parklands' four major attractions - Gondwana Rainforest Sanctuary, South Bank Butterfly and Insect House, Our world Environment and Southships.

Brisbane River Aquatic Attraction

Enjoy the city views and sunny weather on the Brisbane River. Many ferry cruises or charter vessels make the most of the twisting river, otr try your hand at watersports or jogging alkong the riverside paths.

Brisbane Botanic Gardens

The City Botanic Gardens, on the Bruisbane River, are a colourful escape in the centre of the city. The gardens come alive with activity including picnics, cycling, rollerblading and jogging.
The Mt. Coot-tha Botanic Gardens are located at the base of Mt. Coot-tha. Take the family star-trekking at the Cosmic Skydome, an extraordinary auditorium that lets you examine the night skies.

Markets - Brisbane Craft At Its Best

Thousands are attracted to the Riverside Markets at Eagle Street each Sunday for high quality crfts in a carnicval atmosphere. Also, the South Bank Arts Village is an open market with a wide range of Australian crafts and produce and is open Friday evenings, Saturdays and Sundays.

Brisbane Forest Park - Go Bush

Explore the bush on Brisbane's doorstep. Great picnic facilities and scenic walking tracks in a 26,500 hectare forest reserve. Enjoy picnicking, sightseeing, camping, bushwalking, horse riding or cycling, all available in Brisbane Forest Park.

Accomodation Hotels and Motels of Brisbane

The following are a few central and relatively inexpensive places to stay:
Brisbane City Travelodge
-Roma Street, Brisbane
Brisbane Park Royal
-Corner Alice & Albert Streets, Brisbane
Hillcrest Apartment Hotel
-311 Vulture St, Brisbane, South Bank
Inn On The Park
-507 Coronation Drive, Auchenflower
Hotel Grand Chancellor
-Cnr Leichhardt Street and Wickham Terrace, Brisbane
PowerHouse Hotel
-Kingsford Smith Drive, Hamilton
Royal Albert
-Cnr Albert & Elizabeth Streets, Brisbane

Blue Moutains Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T02:07:00.000-07:00

General Tour and Travel Information About Blue Moutains

The Blue Moutains is the part of Great Dividing Range. The Blue Moutain National Park has some truly fantastic scenery, excellent bushwalks and amazing collection of trees. The moutains rise as high as 110 metres. Since a century ago, this place remained a popular getaway amongst all Sydneysiders to escape the summer heat.The blue gaze which gave the moutains their name is a result of the fine mist of oil given off by eucalyptus trees. Enjoy Camping? Lokk no further..come to Blue Moutains.

Attractions of Blue Moutains

Katoomba

Katoomba is the toursit centre of Blue Moutains. The lookout called Echo Point has some of the best views of Jamison Valley including magnificent Three Sisters. The Three Sisters floodlit at night are an awesome sight. In the west of Echo Point, the scenic railway runs down to the bottom of the valley and this railway is considered as the steepest in the world. There also is the Scenic Skyway to capture great views of Blue Moutains.

Jenolan Caves

Jenolan Caves are the Australia's best known limestone caves and situated in south-west of Katoomba. One cave has been open to the public since 1867. Three caves are open independent viewing while there are guided tours to other caves as well.

Blackheath and Mt. Victoria

Blackheath is a little town with superb lookouts. They include Govetts Leap, Bridal Veil Falls, Evans Lookout, Pulpit Rock and Anvil Rock. A couple of kilometre west of Blackheath is Mt. Victoria. The museum at the railway station is open on weekend afternoons.

Blue Moutains Accomodation Hotels and Motels

Camping is allowed in most places, but you have to book in advance. There are lot of accomodation in the Blue Moutains, from hostels to expensive guest houses. Katoomba is the main centre.
The following are a couple of relatively inexpensive places to stay:
Business Name Location Phone Number
Leura House 7 Britain Street (047) 84 2035
Katoomba Moutain Lodge Katoomba (047) 82 3933
Walkabout backpackers Main St. (047) 82 4226
Clarendon Motor Inn Waratah St. (047) 82 1322
Three Sisters Motel Katoomba (047) 82 2911

THE OUTBACK Uluru Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T02:02:00.000-07:00

Uluru General Information

Uluru is a site of deep cultural significance to the local Anangu Aboriginals and the most famous icon of the Australian outback. A pilgrimage to Uluru and the coronary-inducing scramble to the top was an entrenched Australian ritual, but the Aboriginal owners would prefer visitors not to climb the rock and many visitors are now respecting their wishes. The 3.6 km long rock rises a towering 348 metres from the pancake-flat surrounding scrub, and is especially impressive at dawn and sunset when the red rock spectacularly changes hue. There are walks around the base of the rock which pass caves, rock art and sacred Aboriginal sites. Nearby Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), 32 km west of Uluru, are equally impressive monoliths and Mt Olga is actually much higher than Uluru. The Valley of the Winds is a worthy six km circuit.

Uluru Attractions

Ayres Rock - "Red Spot" in Northern Territory.
One of the Seven Wonder of the World. The Rock changes the colour throughout the day. Undoubtly, the ultimate trade mark for center Austarlia.

Uluru Accommodation

Business
Name
Address
Town
Post
Code
Ph BH
Sun Resort 34 Stott Terrace ALICE SPRING 800 -
Desert Tracks PO Box 3606 AYERS ROCK 872 61 89 56 2144
Desert Tracks PO Box 3606 AYERS ROCK 872 61 89 56 2144

Central Tasmania Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T01:59:00.000-07:00

Central Tasmania General Information

The central part of Tasmania was originally colonized in the form of a number of garrison stations intended to link Launceston and Hobart. Today this journey is often taken along the Midlands Highway which runs through many of these old posts. Also located in central Tasmania are a number of lakes and mountains , many of which are contained in national parks such as Lake St. Clair National Park.

Central Tasmania Attractions

Ross is one of the most interesting towns in this region. It was named in 1821 by Governor Macquarie and was originally a garrison town . It became a leading business centre of the district and the home of some of the world's best sheep runs. One of the most interesting features of this town is an ornate convict-built bridge. The carvings on this bridge earned one of the convicts a pardon for the work he performed.

Cradle Mountain National Park and Lake St.Clair National Park occupy large sections of Central Tasmania. Located within these regions are unspoilt temperate rainforests ideal for bushwalking during the summer. The lakes of the region provide the opportunity for fishing , watersports and simple relaxation. In the winter there are usually significant snowfalls in these regions - which make them idea for both cross country and downhill skiing.

Central Tasmania Accommodation, Motels, Hotels

The Elms Inn Church St. Ross
The Gables 35 High St. Campbell Town

Southern Tasmania & the Tasman Peninsula Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T01:54:00.000-07:00

Southern Tasmania & the Tasman Peninsula General Information

The southern area of Tasmania was one of the first parts of the state to be settled extensively by Europeans. As such it has a large proportion of the states early structures. Examples of both civilian and convict residences and facilities can still be found - many in excellent states of repair. Examples or more modern engineering marvels can be found both in Hobart and especially in the Gordon River hydro-electic scheme. Also many of the State's oldest and most impressive forests can be found in this region - especially around the Huon Valley.

Southern Tasmania & the Tasman Peninsula Attractions

Port Arthur: One of the most feared destinations for convicts of the 19th century , many of Port Arthur's stone buildings still remain. It was originally opened by Governor Arthur in 1830 and became notorious for its strict discipline. It closed in 1877 and eventually fell into disuse. In addition to the prison buildings you can visit the Isle of the Dead - the burial ground for the settlement.The site is open every day and also gives night time ghost tours. The actual Port Arthur site is located on the Tasman Peninsula - an area noted for its coastal formations such as Tasman's Arch and Tessellated Pavement. This area is well worth stopping at on the way to Port Arthur.

Richmond: Located 24km from Hobart , Richmond was originally a military and convict station on the route between Hobart and Port Arthur and eventually became a major town during the mid 1800's. 24km from Hobart , Richmond was originally a military and convict station on the route between Hobart and Port Arthur and eventually became a major town during the mid 1800's. Many of the structures still remain including the old jail and the oldest remaining bridge in Australia.

Wilderness & Waterways: Located in the south of Tasmania are many National Parks and other unspoilt wilderness areas. The Huon and Picton Rivers are located in this region and allow both cruising and white-water rafting and kayaking. Also in the area is the Tahune Forest Reserve , Hartz Mountains National Park and the Southern Wilderness. Also in this area are Lake Pedder and Lake Gordon which have been linked to form the largest inland freshwater store in Australia. Linked to these lakes is one of the most important hydro-electric power plants in the country and if the technology isnt your sort of thing just sit back and go fishing for the trout that both lakes are stocked with.

Southern Tasmania & the Tasman Peninsula Accommodation Hotels and Motels

Business
Name
Address
Town
Post
Code
Port Arthur Villas Remarkable Cave Rd. Port Arthur
Lufra Country Hotel Pirates Bay Dv. Eaglehawk Neck
Franklin Lodge Main Rd. Franklin
The Leys Fingerpost Rd. Richmond

Around Sydney Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T01:51:00.000-07:00

General Information About Around Sydney

There are superb national parks just to the north and south of Sydney and other interesting places within easy reach. In the early days of European settlement small towns were established around the major centre.

Around Sydney Attractions

Botany Bay

Botany Bay was Captain Cook's first landing point in Australia and was named fro the many botanical specimens found here. There are various monuments to mark Captains Cook's landing .

Around Sydney Royal National Park

This park is situated 36 km south of the city and considered to be the second oldest national park in the world. It has a large network os walking tracks with beautiful sceneries . Good surfing and swimming beaches are also found here. The '94 bushfire almost destroyed this park.

Around Sydney Paramatta

Paramatta was the second European settlement in Australia. It is 24 km from the city centre and ferries go to Paramatta from Circular Quay. Places of interest in Paramatta are Old Government House, Elizabeth Farm, Hambledon Cottage, Featherdale Wildlife Park.
Penrith

With the population of about 60,000, Penrith is almost an outer suburb of Sydney. It is a gateway to Katoomba and the Blue Mountains. Midway between Penrith and Paramatta, there is a large amusement park complex with wildlife park called Australia's Wonderland.

Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park - Around Sydney

This national park lies between Sydney and magnificent Hawkesbury River. With over 100 km of shoreline, lots of forest and wildlife, walking tracks and Aboriginal rock art, this is a fine antional park to find on a city's doorstep. You can enjoy the superb views across deep inlets like Cowan water and Pittwater from the high points in the park.
Accomodation

Camping is allowed in most places, but you have to book in advance. There are lots of hostels, motels and luxury hotels near city area but once you go to secluded area (like bush) , it would be hard to find that many choices.
The following are a couple of relatively inexpensive places to stay:
Business Name Location Phone Number
Pittwater Youth Hostel Pittwater 9999 2196
Garie Beach Youth Hostel National Park 261 1111

Around Sydney Transportation

It would be better to drive to most of these places by renting a car. Ferries will take you to Paramatta from Circular Quay.

Hobart Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T01:48:00.000-07:00

General Information Hobart

Hobart , despite only having a population of 184,000 is the largest city in Tasmania and the state capital. It was founded in 1804 and proclaimed a city in 1842. Due to its deep-water harbour and to the abundance of whales off the coast, Hobart became a major whaling port and extremely prosperous - as can be seen by the handsome Georgian buildings that still survive today. While modern Hobart is now a blend of the old and the new , its harbour is still one of the major focal points and hosts events such as the Royal Hobart Regatta and the finish of the annual Sydney to Hobart yacht race.

Hobart Attractions

Tudor Court is a complete scale model of an English village that was created by polio vitim John Palotta. In addition to this model are other displays - such as scale replicas of 14th century buildings and costumes.

Mount Wellington dominates the Hobart skyline. Tours run up to the top of this mountain from which the whole city can be viewed from the observation points there.

Wrest Point is both one of the finest hotels located within Hobart's city limits and one of the best equipped casinos in Australia. Whether you just wish luxurious accomodation or feel like hanging out with the high rollers Wrest Point is the place to visit.

Located around the harbour are a number of Hobarts more interesting locales. Victoria and Constitution docks are both popular destinations. Salamanca place with its open-air market and Battery Point with its historic gun emplacement are also worthy of attention.

Hobart Accomodation and Hotels Motels

Salamanca Inn 10 Gladstone St. Hobart
Islington 321 Davey St. Hobart
Wrest Point 410 Sandy Bay Rd , Sandy Bay Hobart
Hobart MidCity Motor Inn 96 Bathurst St. Hobart

Launceston Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T00:48:00.000-07:00

General Tour guide and travel information about Launceston

Launceston , population 94000 is Tasmania's second largest city. Due to the abundance of colorful trees and plants around the town , Launceston has often been called the 'Garden City'. It is located at the head of the Tamar river and was founded in 1805. Some of Launceston's major attractions are the gorgeous local environment and the remnants of its colonial past.

Attractions of Launceston

Historical Sites: Launceston was founded in 1805 , and as can be expected several houses dating from the early 19th century still survive . Entally House , located 13km from the city was built around 1820 and is furnished still in the style of that period. 'Franklin House' and 'Clarendon' are two other similar sites and all warrant National Trust classification.

Cataract Gorge is a natural basin where the South Esk River meets the Tamar. Go on walks around the basin or take it all in from above as you ride on the world's longest single-span chairlift. The gorge is floodlight after dark - making for a truly spectacular scene.

Penny Royal World is one of Launceston's premier tourist destinations. It is a recreation of a 19th century township , complete with a gunpowder mill, period shops and even a model sailing ship!

Launceston Federal is a top standard country club , located in hundreds of hectares of scenic bushland. Every need of the traveller can be met here - from accomodation to sporting activities to just lazing around, and to top it all off , it comes complete with a world-class casino.

Accommodation and Hotels Motels of Launceston

Business Name Addres Town
Country Club Casino Country Club Av , Prospect Vale. Launceston
Novotel Launceston 29 Cameron St. Launceston
Coach House Motor Inn 10 York St. Launceston

Gold Coast Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T00:33:00.000-07:00

General Information About Gold Coast

Gold Coast is Australia's Miami Beach, a striking contrast to Brisbane only an hour away. As an point entry into Queensland it could be hard provide a less typical picture of the rest of the state; aggressively superficial. However, it is not the place to go if you are seeking peace and quiet. There are night clubs, bars and theme parks which will provide non-stop entertainment.

The coast forms a virtually unbroken beach 40km long, south from South Stradbroke Island past Surfers Paradise and Burleigh Heads to the New South Wales border at Coolongatta. Surfers Paradise has the highest concentration of attractions and tall building; as you head south through an unbroken string of motels and shops the pace slows(relatively) and it's easier to find some unoccupied sand. The beaches are still touted as the main attraction, though they have become a backdrop to the more commercial interests, and they swarm with bathers and board riders all year round. Surfing became popular along coast in the 1930s and still pulls in veterans and novices; learning is as easy as renting a board and typing, though you might want some tuition. Coolangatta, Burleigh Heads and South Stradbroke have the best waves and definitely the more serious surfices, but you will find gentler swell all the way along the coast.
With around 300 days of sunshine each year there's little "off-season" as such . Rain can fall at any time during the year, including mid-winter - usually dry in the rest of the state - but it's the possibility of cyclones between January and Easter which tends to thin the crowds out. They come back for the Gold Coast Indy car race in March and then gradually increase in numbers over the year, peaking at Christmas.

Surfers Paradise Gold Coast

Spiritually,if not geographically, Surfers Paradise is at the heart of the Gold Coast, the place where it aims and aspirations are the most clearly experienced. For the residents, this involves making money by providing services and entertainment for tourists; visitors reciprocate by parting with their cash
Historically, Surfers' beaches have been attracting tourists since late last century though the town only started developing along commercial lines during 1950s when the first multistorey beachfront apartments were built.

Attractions of Gold Coast

Cable Sports World Gold Coast

Cable Sports World is the World's largest water ski park. Situated on 90 acres with 5 sparkling FRESH water lakes, the park is open is open every day with floodlights for night skiing and night bungy.
Admission is free and skiing ticket includes instructions on how to ski as well as all kneeboards and skis. Bungy from Australia's highest tower, sling-shot bungy from the ground up, jet ski, buzzy boats, paddle boats, go-karts, scuba diving.
Conrad Jupiters Casino

One of Australia's largest and reputable casino. You can try out your lady luck for a spin, or even a real life dancing partner for a whirl. Dine and wine in an elegant surroundings

Currumbin Sanctuary, Gold Coast

Come face to face with your Aussie mates at Currmbin Sanctuary. Set in 27 hectares, Currumbin Sanctuary is home to more than 1,300 species of native flora and fauna including kangaroos, koalas, crocodiles, snakes amd wild lorikeets that you can hand feed twice daily.
As well as the twice daily wild rainbow lorikeet feeding, features include wildlife educational presentations informatice talks on reptiles, regular 2.5km miniature train rides, walk-through aviaries, an animal orphanage, playground, retail outlets and eateries.

DreamWorld Gold Coast

In one day, DreamWorld guests experience action rides, like the Wipeout, watch amazing shows, meet riotous characters and see the only interactive tiger attraction in the southern hemisphere.

Fisherman's Wharf Gold Coast

Village waterfront shopping and entertainment complex with the tavern, seafood markets, kids' playground and swimming.

Fleay's Fauna Center Gold Coast

A unique outdoor experience in environmental education. Understand nature and animal behaviour.

Funtasia Gold Coast

Located right in the heart of Surfers Paradise, Funtasia is a unique indoor family fun center. Try Gizmo Golf, Laserhunt, Dodgem cars, the Fun Recording Studio, Famous Friends Photos, over 170 high tech games, family games and prizes.

Olson's Bird Gardens Gold Coast

Olson's Bird Gardens nestle in the peaceful Currumbin Valley, 9 kms inland from Currumbin Beach on Currumbin Creek Road, and feature one of Queensland's best private bird collections. Native and exotic birds are displayed in huge aviaries set in landscaped, rounds amidst sub-tropical rainforest and botanical gardens. Refreshments are served in the Glasshouse Tearoom, and there is a gift shop. Olson's opens every day and admission is charged.
The road through the Currumbin Valley follows the Currumbin Creek as it meanders through lush farmland towards the NSW border. Stop at cosy cafes, take a dip in the Currumbin Rock Pools, and visit attractions like Currumbin Valley Pottery to see exhibits of paintings, domestic and decorative pottery, and fine arts. The road through Currumbin Valley passes close to Nicoll Scrub National Park, and leads to the magnificent Mt Cougal Section of the Springbrook National Park.

Ripley's Believe It Or Not

In central Surfers Paradise, you can visit the up market exhibitions and displays in an suditorium of amazing and unusual items - along the lines of the highly original TV shows.

Sea World Australia Gold Coast

At Sea World, you will discover the wonders of Australia's most spectacular marine theme park. Just minutes from Surfers Paradise, it is a full day of dazzling shows, adventures and thrills, including the amazing adventure ride, Bermuda triangle, the triple loop Corkscrew rollercoaster and the wonderful marine life shows.
Warner Bros Movie World

Where the movies come alive and you are the star. A fun filled journey of glamour, excitement and action.

Hotels and Accomodation in Gold Coast

Hostels are the mainstay of budget accomodation since the only campsiteis 6km north along the highway, at the mouth of Loder Creek. Typically quiet early on, the hostels come to life late in the day and you won't be left alone until you have signed up for trips to nightclubs, parties and beach events. A great many facilities are provided in the hostels such as pool, kitchen, TV and loans of surfboards. It is a good idea to book in advance. However, expect to pay more for ocean views.

Most of the resorts include sauna, heated pool, spa and tennis court. Prices for a night ranges from $80 - $385 depending on the quality of the hotel / resort.

For reasonably cheap accomodation, you may decide to look up Surfers Paradise Backpackers.

The following are a few central and relatively inexpensive places to stay:
Sheraton Mirage
-Sea World Drive, Main Beach
Surfers Paradise Marriott
-158 Ferny Avenue
ANA Hotel Gold Coast
-22 View Avenue
Ramada Hotel
-Corner Gold Coast Highway and Hanlan Street
Conrad Jupiters Gold Coast
-Broadbeach Island
Gold Coast International
-Corner Gold Coast Highway & Staghorn Avenue
Surfers Paradise Travelodge
-2807 Gold Coast Highway
Quality Beachcomber
-18 Hanlan Street
Ocean Blue Resort
-122 Ferny Avenue
Country Comfort Inn
-Corner Markeri Street and Sunshine Boulevard, Mermaid Waters

Canberra Tour and Travel Guide Australia Hotels Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T00:29:00.000-07:00

General Information About Canberra

Canberra is Australia's most talked about city. After the constitutional decision to build the national capital, the site diplomatically situated between arch rivals Melbourne and Sydney was chosen and given a name Canberra. Canberra is believed to be an Aboriginal term for 'meeting place'. Canberra has some of the best arhcitecture and exhibitions in Australia, including the splendid Parliament House and National Gallery. Fascinating and totally planned city surrounded by the magnificent hills - that is Canberra.
All Australians know Canberra as the seat of federal governement. It is the place where important national decisions are made. It is the reppository of Australia's cultural and art treasures. It is a city of impressive monuments. Canberra is a clean, carefully planned, people friendly sity that 300,000 Australians call home.

Attractions

Parliament House

Parliament House is the home of Australia's Parliament and the meeting place of this nation. This acclaimed building houses superb works of art and one of the world's largest tapestries. You can explore beautiful gardens and enjoy the free guided tours, public performances, films, displays and changing exhibitions. It is open from 9am to 5 pm everyday except on Christmas Day. Admission is free.
Telecom Tower

This is Canberra's futuristic landmark. This tower rises 195 metres above the summit of Black Moutain and provides 360 degrees spectacular views of Canberra and the surrounding countryside. Stunning panormaic views of the city can be seen by day or night from the two open viewing platforms or enclosed viewing gallery. It is open 9am to 5 pm daily and the entrance charge applies.

National Dinosaur Museum

This is Australia's largest permanent display of dinosaur material and contains ten full size replica of dinosaurs, large bones, skulls and reconstructions of Autralian dinosaurs. Displays of orginal and cast fossils illustrate the history of life on earth. It is open everyday between 9am-5pm and attracts the entrance fee.
Questacon

This National Science and Technology Centre is Australia's leading interactive science centre. At Questacon you can use your hands, feet and whole body, as well as your mind, to discover and explore the science that is part of our lives. With over 200 exhibits you can have more fun learning than you imagined possible. It might be educational but it's also great fun.
Casino Canberra

This is Australia's finest boutique style Casino. The Casino offers 50 gaming tables, a "Keno Lounge", a "Poker Lounge" , two bars, Cafe 21 and Shuffles Restaurant. Casino Canberra is located in Glebe Park, next to the Capital Parkroyal Hotel in the city centre.
Aquarium - Australian Wildlife

The National Aquarium - Australian Wildlife Sanctuary is situated just about five minutes from the city. The aquarium has both fresh and saltwater tanks and a 1.5 million litre Riverland Tunnel. The 17 acre Wildlife Sanctuary has koalas, wombats, dingoes, emus and many more. Picnic and BBQ facilites are available. Open daily 9am-5.30pm.
Cockington Green

This Australian Tourism Award-winning display consists of 1/12th scale replicas of many buildings found in Britain today. Each model, an accurate reproduction os the buildings, is set in beautiful landscaped gardens.
National Botanic Gardens

The Australian National Botanic Gardens are located on the slopes of Balck Moutain. The gardens are home to the world's finest living collection of Australian native plants. Here you can experience the Rainforest Gully, Rockery and Aboriginal Trail.

Accomodation

There's wide variety of accomodation available in Canberra, including hostels, motel and luxury hotels. In summer, the peak tourist season, the accomodation rates rise just about everywhere. For longer term stays, it may be better off renting flats of shared accomodation.
The following are a few central and relatively inexpensive places to stay:
Business Name Location Phone Number
Canberra YHA Hostel Dryandra St. , O'Connor 248 9155
Kingston Hotel Near Parliament House 295 0123
Victor Lodge Kingston 295 7777
Macquarie Private Hotel Bourke St. 273 2325

Transportation

The airport is 7 kilometres from the city centre. From here you can take airport bus to go to various hostels. Buses run fairly frequently around Canberra. The flat 'one route' fare is $2. A budget car is one of the best ways to see Canberra and the surrounding regions. You can also go on guided tours offered by one of many coaches.

Adelaide City Tour and Travel Guide Australia , Casinos, Night Clubs

2010-05-16T00:20:00.000-07:00

Things to do when you travel to Adeliaide

Adelaide City is a wonderfull place to visit with many and varied things to do and see. Here are some of the places to see. Click on pictures if you wish to see an enlarged version.

Rattling good fun - these trams have been running regularly since 1929 between the city and Glenelg beach.

pen air stalls are a feature of Rundle Mall, the city's major shopping area.

Surrounded on all sides by parks and gardens, Adelaide offers many opportunities for sport, a quiet stroll and maybe a picnic. Just 15 minutes away to the hills and beaches.

This could be your lucky day - grand entrance to the Adelaide Casino which captures the
style of Monte Carlo.

Feeling energetic? Then why not run through the long list of our clean, sandy - and
uncrowded beaches? You've got 32 km to choose from.

Grab a banana and meet the great the locals . . . markets are great meeting places - and the
food's great too.

Accommodation of Adeliade

Accommodation in Adelaide is plentiful and varied.

Three 5 star hotels are located within the city square mile - the Hyatt Regency Adelaide, the Hilton Adelaide and the Terrace Inter-Continental. All are within a short walk of the city's main entertainment, dining, cultural and business precincts.

There are plenty of other good quality hotels in and around Adelaide, including the Grosvenor on North Terrace and the Hindley Park Royal in Hindley Street.

If you'd prefer to have a five star sea view, try the Ramada Grand Hotel, at Glenelg. A 15-20 minute drive from the city centre, it's right on the foreshore and close to shops, entertainment and leisure facilities.

After something a little different? Try one of Adelaide's attractive Victorian and Edwardian pubs, which provide a good range of medium-price accommodation. There's also a good selection of heritage accommodation, refurbished houses and cottages located in the city's inner residential areas and close to the entertainment and dining precincts.

Good motels and self contained units can be found along the city's main approaches and along its outer rim on South Terrace and Greenhill Road.

Travellers with an eye on their budgets will home in on one of the city's bed and breakfast establishments, noted for their homely atmosphere. Backpackers are also well provided for, with a number of specialist hostels within the city square mile.

There are also several caravan and camping grounds on the outskirts of the city, with more in the wider suburban area.

There are many guides to Adelaide accommodation available from travel agents, motoring organisations or by contacting the South Australian Travel Centre in Adelaide on (08) 212 1505 or free call from interstate on 008 882 092.

Hotels & Motels within the City Square Mile in Adeliade

Adelaide Paringa Motel : 231 1000
Adelaide Travelodge : 223 2744
Apartments on the Park : 232 0555
Arab Steed Hotel : 223 1015
The Barron Townhouse : 211 8255
Brednock Hotel : 231 5467
Country Comfort Inn : 223 4355
Earl of Zetland Hotel-Motel : 223 5500
The Grosvenor Hotel : 407 8888
Hilton International Adelaide : 217 0711
Hindley Parkroyal : 231 5552
Hyatt Regency Adelaide : 231 1234
Richmond Hotel : 223 4044
Terrace Inter-Continental Hotel : 217 7552

Night Life in Adelaide

Once the sun goes down over the magnificent city skyline Adealide becomes a vibrant place with a variety of lively nigt clubs and some top quality restaurants.

NightClubs in Adelaide

Hinley street is the heart of Adelaides NightClub Scene, it is jam packed with numerous clubs which should suit the tastes of all type of party goers. For the more mainstream type clubs check out RIOs and Asylum. Also you can't go past Heaven.

Australia's Popular Touristic Attractions and Tour Destinations

2010-05-16T00:17:00.000-07:00

There's just so much to do in Australia and theres just so much of the country. However as everything is not for everyone, decisions on where to go need to be made on the basis of what you want to do. The following is a guide to activities that should cater for all tastes.

CASINOS OF AUSTRALIA
Adelaide Casino (SA)
Casion Canberra (ACT)
Conrad Jupiters Casino (Qld)
Launceston Federal (Tas)
Wrest Point Casino (Tas)

HISTORIC SITES

Botany Bay (NSW)
Entally House & Franklin House , Launceston (Tas)
Old Governmant House (NSW)
Port Arthur (Tas)
Richmond (Tas)
Ross Bridge (Tas)

NATIONAL PARKS / NATURAL SITES OF AUSTRALIA
Ayers Rock (NT)
Blackheath (NSW)
Blue Mountains (NSW)
Brisbane Forest Park (Qld)
Cataract Gorge (Tas)
Cradle Mountain (Tas)
Flinders Ranges (SA)
Freycinet National Park (Tas)
Gippsland Lake (Vic)
The Grampians (Vic)
Great Barrier Reef (Qld)
Jenolan Caves (NSW)
Kakadu National Park (NT)
Kalgoorlie (WA)
Kangaroo Island (SA)
The Kimberley Ranges (WA)
Ku-Ring-Gai National Park (NSW)
Lake St. Clair (Tas)
Leeuin-Naturaliste National Park (WA)
London Bridge, Peterborough (Vic)
The Olgas (NT)
Otway National Park (Vic)
Port Campbell National Park (Vic)
Royal National Park (NSW)
Tasman Arch & Tessellated Pavement (Tas)
Wilson's Promontory (Vic)

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS OF AUSTRALIA
Australian National Maritime Museum (NSW)
Australian Pearling Exhibition (NT)
Adelaide Trams (SA)
Barossa Valley Wineries (SA)
Bendigo Gold Mines (Vic)
Berndt Museum of Anthropology (WA)
Broken Hill (NSW)
Cook's Cottage(Vic)
DreamWorld (Qld)
Gordon River Hydro-Electric Scheme (Tas)
Hunter Valley Wineries (NSW)
Kings Cross (NSW)
Murray River Cruises (NSW)
Museum of Arts and Sciences (NT)
Museum of Victoria (Vic)
National Dinosaur Museum (ACT)
National Gallery of Victoria (Vic)
Parliament House (ACT)
Rialto Towers (Vic)
Penny Royal World (Tas)
Royal Melbourne Zoo (Vic)
Sea World (Qld)
South Bank Parklands (Qld)
Sovereign Hill (Vic)
Sydney Opera House (NSW)
Sydney Harbour Bridge (NSW)
Sydney Centrepoint Tower (NSW)
Telecom Tower (ACT)
Tudor Court (Tas)
Underwater World (WA)
Warner Bros. Movie World (Qld)

WATER SPORTS IN AUSTRALIA
Berry Springs Nature Park (NT)
Bondi Beach (NSW)
Byron Bay (NSW)
Cable Sports World (Qld)
Great Barrier Reef (Qld)
Howard Springs (NT)
Lake Bellfield (Vic)
Lake St. Clair (Tas)
Lake Pedder & Gordon (Tas)
Manly Beach (NSW)
Margaret River(WA)
Murray River (NSW)
Perth (WA)

WILDLIFE OF AUSTRALIA
Currumbin Sanctuary (Qld)
East Coast Bird Life Park (Tas)
Featherdale Wildlife Park (NSW)
Fleays Fauna Center (Qld)
Freycinet National Park - Whale Watching (Tas)
Gippsland Lake (Vic)
The Grampians (Vic)
Great Barrier Reef (Qld)
Ku-Ring-Gai National Park (NSW)
Indo-Pacific Marine Exhibition (NT)
Kangaroo Island (SA)
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary (Qld)
National Aquarium (ACT)
Olson's Bird Gardens (Qld)
Phillip Island - Fairy Penguins (Vic)
Sea Life Center (Tas)
Territory Wildlife Park (NT)
Tooronga Zoo (NSW)

General information about Australia for travellers

2010-05-16T00:13:00.001-07:00

History

Australia was the last great landmasds to be discovered by the Europeans. It has been inhabited for at least 50,000 years. It is believed that the ancestors of Aborigines journeyed from Indonesia to the Australian Mainland more than 50,000 years ago. When Sydney Cove was first settled by Whites, around 200 years ago, there were about 300,000 Aborigines in Australia. Without any leagal right to the lands they once lived on, Aborigines throughout the country were dispossesed by Whites. Captaain James Cook i s popularly credited with Australia's discovery, but it was probably a Portuguese who first sighted the country. Then this place became a place for British convicts.

Geography

Australia is the world's sixth largest country. Its area is 7,682,300 sq. km. Lying between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, Australia is about 4000 km from east to weest and 3200 mk from north to south, with a coastline about 36,000 long.

Population and People

Australia's population is about 17 million, with New South Wales and Victoria as the most populous states. There are about 230,000 Aborigines and Islanders, mainly living in central Australia and the far north. Until WW II Australians were predominantly o f British and Irish descent but that has changed dramatiocally since the war. Australia is now a multicultural country with people from many countries in the world, notably from Europe and Asia.

Government

Australia is a federation of six states and two territories. It has a parliamentary system of government based on that of the UK. In Federal parliament, the lower house is the House Of Representatives and the upper house is the Senate. Federal parliament is based in Canberra, the capital of the nation. Australia is a monarchy with the British sovereign represented by the Goverrnor General and state governors.

Language

Official language is Australian english, but people from different background speak their own languages making it the multi-lingual country.

Visas

Every visitor excpet New Zealanders need to have visa to enter Australia. Visa application forms are available from either Australian diplomatic missions overseas or travel agents. There are several different types of visas, depending on the reason for yo ur visit.

Money

Australia's currency is Australian dollar, which comprises 100 cnets. There are coins for 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 and $2 and paper notes for $5, $10, $20, 450 and $100. You can use travellers' Cheques and any credti cards.

Customs

There is the usual duty-free per-person quota of one litre of alcohol, 250 cigarettes and durable goods up to the value of A$400. All goods of plant and animal origin must be declared.

Business hours

Most shops are open 9.00 am to 5.00 pm on weekdays and either noon or 5pm on Saturday. In most towns there are one or two late night shoppings each week. There are 24 hour shops as well like 7-eleven and bottle shops. Banking hour is 9.30-4.00 from monday to Thursday and until 5 pm onn friday.

Electricity

Voltage is 220-240 V and the plugs are three-flat-pins.

Time

Australia has three time zones: Western Standard Time(GMT+8.00), central Standard time(GMT+9.5) and eastern Standard time(GMT+10.0). Some states observes day light savings.

Emergency

Ring 000 in any life threatening situation. This call is free from any phone and can be used anywhere in Australia.

The Single Woman's Survival Guide To Istanbul

2010-05-16T00:03:00.000-07:00

"Gee, Toto, I don't think we're in America anymore...."

STUFF YOUR TRAVEL AGENT NEVER TOLD YOU

"Wait 'til you see how gorgeous the Turkish men are," my travel agent told me. "I was amazed at how gorgeous they were when I was there."

Hmph, as my friend Alex in Denver would say. Gorgeous, I guess, is in the eye of the beholder. Suzanne and I did not find the Turkish men particularly gorgeous, although we saw a few we'd describe as fairly cute. Of course, our feelings might be slightly colored by the experience we had with them.

At the risk of offending the Turkish community, who might rightly claim that we only dealt with one subset of Turkish society, the word we would use to describe the Turkish men is slimy. Of course, we were dealing with mainly the vendors--the ones on the street as well as in the bazaars, and one taxi driver who couldn't seem to grasp that "I have a husband and son," was a subtle way of saying, "I don't want to sleep with you, you disgusting dirtball."

Okay, we were warned. I did my research on both Greece & Turkey on the Internet before we left. (I'm wired; Suzanne is not.) I spoke with women who had travelled in Turkey, and who offered excellent advice on how to deal with them. "Don't take the Turkish men too seriously," a lady named Catherine advised me. "I took my cue from the Turkish women--who are very proud. Walk with purpose, and don't look at them--treat them as though they were beneath your notice. They will flirt outrageously with you, and it seems as though there are men at bus stops who know only three English phrases--"You are beautiful. Are you American? Will you marry me?"

We avoided the bus stops mainly due to the fact that they were prime terrorist targets. So we got no marriage proposals, only indecent ones. Our first stop in Turkey was the morning we docked at the port of Kusadasi, on the southwestern border of Turkey on the Asia Minor side. (For the Turkish-impaired, there is a European side and an Asia Minor side. Istanbul is split up between the two sides and most of the tourist attractions are on the European side.) Kusadasi is close to the ancient town of Ephesus, formerly the site of a tremendous center of worship of the goddess Artemis. (I'll get to the actual tourist sites later).

OUR EXPERIENCES

After we were done touring Ephesus the cab driver took us back to Kusadasi, where we had like an hour and a half to kill before boarding the ship again. Naturally, we took to the bazaars...

We were not, as I mentioned before, entirely unprepared. We had been wearing wedding rings throughout the entire trip because we had heard that the Greek men were a little, um, randy as well (they weren't.) We dressed conservatively, in long skirts or pants and loose blouses that covered our upper arms. We spoke about "our husbands" instead of our boyfriends, and I was prepared to claim Jeff's son as my own if pushed (which I was once, and it didn't work.) Either Turkish men don't know that wedding rings are a sign of a Western woman being married, which we're highly inclined to doubt, or they just don't care. I don't know, maybe these guys really are getting hellaciously laid by Western women. But at any rate, they all speak excellent English except for the word NO. Rumor has it that they think all American women are rich, but our experience leads us to believe that they are interested in all Western women, because they could tell neither by our looks nor our accents which English-speaking country we were from.

And boy, talk about your stupid lines! The first one we heard was inside the bazaar when one of them said to Suzanne, "Where did you buy your eyes?" The vendors were very pushy in trying to get us to come into their stores, which we expected, and just shaking your head and saying no seemed to be good enough. We were never sure the barrage of false flattery was because they were just trying to get us into their store or themselves into our pants. But it got annoying pretty quickly. The most common ones were: "You have beautiful eyes/hair." (Or just, you are very beautiful/pretty.") "Where are you from?" "Do you speak English?"

Being as I was, as I considered myself, an ambassador from another country, especially one with a reputation for producing what has come to be called the Ugly American, I at first felt compelled to be polite. "You don't have to tell them anything," Suzanne informed me ten minutes into the excursion, when I at least acknowledged their questions or attention. Considering the fact that we couldn't pass a man without his showering us with unwanted queries, I quickly learned that sometimes rudeness was the better part of discretion. I ignored them as we walked by or shook my head if they tried to hustle me into their shops.

But even as we walked down the street, you couldn't avoid the hoots and the catcalls. "Hey lady, your hair is very beautiful!" "Hey lady, come back here and talk to me!" And one guy actually called after us, and I kid you not, "Shake it baby, shake it shake it shake it, shake it, baby, shake it shake it shake it!"

We have no idea if this sort of crap actually works on any Western woman, but we couldn't imagine even the most bubble-headed Valley Girl falling for these tired old routines.

The next morning we docked in Istanbul, were loaded onto tour buses, and were given a grand tour of the city. Our first stop for getting off the bus was the Blue Mosque. We got off the bus and the street vendors descended on us like a plague of locusts, pushing tourist books and cheap toys and hats and scarves under our noses. We were warned to watch out for the pickpockets, who thrived in this sort of atmosphere. The first thing I learned that morning was that the sort of long, loose hair I had was the erotic equivalent to Turkish men what naked breasts were to American men. (I bound it up with hair sticks I always carry in my purse the first opportunity I got after leaving the mosque.) A young street vendor pushed a book on Istanbul into my hand and said, "For you, free."

"Free?" I asked suspiciously, knowing already that nothing in this city came for free.

"Yes, for free," he told me. Then he added, "And you give me a kiss," touching his lips.

"Uh, I think not!" I replied and I pushed him away. Just then a second one, who'd heard the exchange, turned around and said, "I give you a free book for a kiss, yes?"

"No, I'm married," I replied as I hurried into the center of our group.

Leaving the mosque, the street vendors noticed that Suzanne and I were the only young and apparently single members of our group. They followed us like flies. I turned to one pursuing us and said, "Je ne parle pas Anglais," hoping that pretending to be a non-English-speaking person would get them to leave us alone. But the boy reacted in perfect French. It seems the Turks who deal with the tourists learn all the major international languages, as our taxi driver in Kusadasi the day before had taught us when he told us he had learned enough of English, the major European languages, and a few Oriental ones from the tourists who'd ridden in his cab. "Laissez-nous tranquille!" I told him as we turned away, thinking to myself that speaking French wasn't gong to bring us any relief either.

WHAT WE LEARNED

What we learned about travelling around Turkey (or probably any Moslem country, since it seems Moslem men have hot bananas for Western women everywhere, we hear) when you're unaccompanied by a man is that we were correct in dressing conservatively, and that if the wedding rings weren't major deterrents, they were more protection than not. Suzanne had been to Egypt last year and hadn't worn a wedding ring and had gotten a bad time of it from the Egyptian crew on the cruise boat she was on. While she claimed that the men in the bazaars were not nearly as obnoxious, she also said she was glad she was wearing a wedding ring in Turkey. We are sorry now that we didn't wear kerchiefs on our heads like the Turkish women; as a Moroccan lady once informed me when I considered going to Morocco, the men will assume you're a Western woman married to a Moslem who's converted.

A pair of sunglasses is a must-have accessory, in our opinion. It's not so helpful in the bazaars, where there's no need for them, but when you're on the street it serves multiple purposes. First of all, if the men can't see your eyes it's one less thing they have to comment on. Secondly, it prevents them from seeing you make eye contact. The briefest glance, even when simply scanning a crowd, is an invitation to pursue you. So you can walk down the street looking straight ahead, seemingly ignoring the gauntlet of vendors (it's like something out of an Indiana Jones movie, I swear to Goddess!) while keeping your eye on all of them.

They do not take No for an answer. But we did not feel like we were in much danger for the most part, as Turkish laws are much stricter than American ones. As far as we know, they do not have the same problem with concealed weapons as we have here (i.e., no one is going to shoot you or stab you for your fine American jeans.) They are really more annoying than anything else, but they simply do not know when to quit. When one Turkish man accosted us while walking down the street, I turned to him and said, "I'm sorry, our husbands do not like us speaking with strange men." He did not take this for the subtle invitation to piss off that it was, and we had to just walk faster than him to get away from him. We had one English-speaking taxi driver in Istanbul who could not take an invitation to piss off either (although in retrospect it was probably a bad idea for me to sit up front with him.) His first comment to me was, "You have such pretty eyes," to which I replied, "Thank you, my husband and son think so too." This did not deter him in the least and he tried to set up a date with me after he got off work. I pointed out again that I was married. He asked where my husband was and I told him he wasn't feeling good and stayed back at the motel today (had he asked what was wrong with him, I would have been sorely tempted to reply, "HE DRANK YOUR F**KING WATER, OKAY???") At no time were we ever physically accosted or molested. My e-mail friend Catherine said only once in her experience did a Turkish man actually grab her butt, upon which another one grabbed him and forced him to apologize.

We had only one truly scary moment. It was our first day in Istanbul as we were walking to the Covered Bazaar. We were surrounded by street vendors on both sides calling out to us. Suzanne and I stuck together, sunglasses on and ignoring the catcalls. One guy hollered out to me, "Hey lady, you have beautiful hair!" When I ignored him he called out louder, "Hey lady, come here, you have beautiful hair, I want to talk to you!" When I continued ignoring him he got irate and followed us down the street screaming, "Hey lady! You turn around and look at me! I'm talking to you! Who the hell do you think you are ignoring me?" I half-turned around--I never saw the man at all--and yelled, "Pas Anglais!!!" in my angriest voice. He left us alone at that point, although later on Suzanne and I agreed we knew not whether it was because he thought I didn't speak English, or because he saw the Turkish cop right there.

A word to the wise--for all their reputation, and for all you saw in the movie Midnight Express, the Turkish police are your friends. They have a vested interest in keeping the tourists happy. Turkey is not a First World country--it's a developing country, and the poverty is more widespread than it is in the United States or Western Europe (which explains in part the pushiness of the street vendors.) Turkey will not profit from people coming back to their home countries and telling tales of being physically assaulted. The Turks are very afraid of the police because justice is far different there--according to a Turkish guidebook a friend lent me, the penalties alone for stealing are steep--25 years in jail. If someone sells you a 14-karat ring at a bazaar and it turns out to be only 10 karat, his ass is in serious trouble if you inform the police. A Lebanese couple in our tour group said the best thing you can do is to threaten to call the police--that is the last thing a persistent Turk will want you to do!

That was the same advice we were given by our Turkish tour guide (we loved our tour guides, Ahmet and Ehret, by the way--living proof that not all Turkish men are slimeballs.) When we asked Ehret what we should have done in this situation, he said to yell for the police. When I asked what we should do if no police were around, he showed me how to pull away from someone or to push them away. I asked if this wasn't risky, would this get us arrested and thrown in jail for assaulting a Turkish citizen? He said no, we were guests in this country and the woman is always right. "He is hassling you," he told me. "In Turkey the woman is always right." "Does that go for non-Moslem women as well?" I asked, with a note of suspicion in my heart. "Yes," he told me.

An older woman in our group who heard our conversation came up and told us that she had lived in Saudi Arabia for a year, where the men were so aggressive that they would come up to you in the street and grab your breasts. "In any Moslem country, the woman is always right," she told us. "Even the non-Moslem women." However, I would take this advice very cautiously--several books I've since read on Islamic countries indicates that Islamic fundamentalism is on the rise everywhere, and as is the case with all fundamentalist idiocy, the woman is always wrong.

I should add in finishing that Suzanne and I did enjoy visiting Turkey, and would not want anyone to think, especially women travelling without a man, that it is too dangerous to try. We really only felt scared once, when the man followed us down the street en route to the Turkish bazaar. The men are, in our opinion, far more talk than action. Most of these "harrassment" situations were in your typical "construction crew" setup--we think a lot of this was a lot of macho show for their friends. Men by themselves never bothered us. There was a man in a shop in Kusadasi that sold professional belly dancing costumes, and although a couple of other women and I were in costumes and dancing around, he behaved himself. Of course, he was the only man there...Also, the ones who can't speak English will leave you alone--out of four taxi drivers we dealt with in Istanbul, only one spoke English and he was the only one who bothered us. The restaurant owners and waiters were just fine, as were the older street vendors--the non-mobile ones. We also experienced less flattery crapola in the Egyptian Spice Bazaar, which has a lot of different shops like the Covered Bazaar but is frequented more by the locals--the latter is strictly Tourist City today.

One final thought--and this is in case this is read by any Turkish men who might take offense. I do not mean this page to be an offense or a "rag" on Turkey in general. Suzanne and I do realize that we were "strangers in a strange land" and that we might not be as familiar with the culture and customs as we would have liked. However, we do not think we were wrong in finding the behavior of the street vendors and taxi drivers annoying. What I found particularly offensive was that many of these people identified themselves as Moslem (I asked). Correct me if I'm wrong, but the Koran just doesn't give people carte blanche to have sex with anyone they please any more than the Bible does. Of course, I realize that there are probably just as many "surface Moslems" in Turkey or any other Moslem country--just as America and many other countries have "surface Christians"--people who identify themselves with the dominant religion when they neither believe the philosophy nor otherwise "walk the walk."

What I found particularly disgusting was the clearly pervasive notion that it's okay to "sully" a non-Moslem woman in a way they would never dare "sully" a Moslem one; this is as hypocritical, in my eyes, as Jimmy Swaggart renting out prostitutes (non-Christian, "fallen" women) so he can do things he wouldn't dare ask his good Christian wife to do. I keep in mind that Islam as a religion is only 1,300 years old, and that Christianity was just as immature about sexuality and women (and already burning them at the stake for being both female and sexual) at that age. But Islam is also coming of age in the twentieth century, not the thirteenth century--when they have a mass media that exposes them to the rest of the world in a way our medieval Christian fathers didn't. Isn't it about time Islam grows up and recognizes that Allah never said it was okay to harrass non-Moslem women, and that if men are going to claim to be Moslem, they should walk the walk, not just talk the talk?

A Turk Replies - A Turkish man named Bulent Gumus, currently living in Texas and with an Air Force e-mail address, found my page en route to looking up other things and had a few comments to make. He has given me permission to reprint them here, with the proviso that I clean up his English (which was pretty good and required a minimum of maintenance.) He also sent me a "Fun Facts About Turkey" list and a neat URL for other peoples' comments on Turkey.

A Turkish Woman Responds - A Turkish woman, living in Turkey, felt that I had misperceptions about Islam and Turkish society.

European Men Are So Much More Romantic Than American Men/American Women Studying In Europe Are Unbelievably Easy - "It's the sex, isn't it," asked my friend Tony, a/k/a Dinsdale in the Society for Creative Anachronism. "That's why you travel so much, isn't it?" Well, I'll admit to having had sex in Europe, and to having had sex with a European...it's just that it was an American in Europe, and a European in America...honestly, I just go to see historical sites. Really. I swear to Goddess. Damn it, no one ever believes me. ;) Anyway, this was a pretty funny tongue-in-cheek look at American women travelling abroad...

Lasercare skin L-ascorbic Acid and Glycolic Acid

2010-05-15T18:16:00.000-07:00

Potentially any skin is problem skin. Although you may not suffer from acne, may not smoke or go on sun beds, everybody is exposed to the sun's ageing rays from birth and as we grow older our skin ages more rapidly. Lasercare have helped countless people to improve the quality of their skin and as a company keep up to date with all the latest technology, making us ideally placed to answer any questions that you may have. You are welcome to visit your local clinic and receive a complimentary pre-assessment with a nurse.

At Lasercare we aim to provide an all round service for your skin, preventing as well as treating skin damage. We stock skin care preparations containing both L-ascorbic Acid and Glycolic Acid products which are not available over the counter.

L-ascorbic Acid
L-ascorbic Acid is the only form of Vitamin C that is biologically useful when applied directly to the skin. Without sufficient Vitamin C collagen production slows down, resulting in fine lines and wrinkles. Taking Vitamin C orally may help your general well being but takes a long time to reach your skin making it twenty times more effective to administer vitamin C topically. At Lasercare it is possible to buy a range of products containing L-ascorbic Acid. These products are clinically proven to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and can slow the ageing process.

Glycolic Acid
Glycolic Acid is a form of fruit acid which maintains and cares for your skin by tackling any condition detrimental to the skin's well being. The skin care benefits of Glycolic Acid are well proven. Not only do they reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles but they also help clear problem blemishes and allow skin to heal. There is a wide range of products available at Lasercare and to supplement these it is also possible to have a course of Glycolic Acid Skin Peels.

Exposure to the sun is incredibly damaging to your skin and can be dangerous as it introduces the risk of skin cancer- something which we should all be aware of.

If you are worried about your skin, it is possible to have an Ultra Violet photo taken at Lasercare which will show you any damage unseen by the naked eye. This can then be analysed by a dermatologist who can advise you of any treatment needed.

Lasercare also provide a sunblock, which gives essential skin protection, and an Aloe Vera gel, a natural product which soothes and calms your skin. You can buy either of these products on-line or at any Lasercare clinic.

Lines and wrinkles removal by Yag laser Treatment

2010-05-15T18:15:00.000-07:00

Skin resurfacing with the CO2 laser and erbium: yag laser
Over the years our skin becomes exposed to many factors which cause unwelcome signs of ageing. Ultra-violet sun rays, the effects of smoking, the degeneration of collagen and other natural changes to the structure of our skin all play their part in causing fine lines, wrinkles and other skin irregularities on the skin's surface.

If you are now wishing for a safe and effective way to remove imperfections, Lasercare has the answers. As the country's leading specialist provider of skin laser treatment, Lasercare offers a wide range of treatments to both NHS and private patients at clinics throughout the UK. Through the expertise of our consultants, we offer the most advanced, safe and effective treatments possible. The latest laser treatment from Lasercare means our experts can safely eliminate many imperfections of the skin with the maximum of precision and care and the minimum of discomfort to our patients.

As specialists we are dedicated to providing the highest quality of treatment and aftercare at our clinics - all of which are registered and approved by the relevant local health authority.

What can be treated?
Most irregularities in the skin's surface -including fine lines, wrinkles, crow's feet, ' lipstick lines', acne and chicken pox scars, can be treated with laser.

How long does the treatment take?
Most treatment sessions last no more than an hour and you will be able to return home immediately after treatment. Most patients prefer to take some time out - about 7 - 14 days - from their usual work and social environment. This is because the normal response to treatment is a temporary reddening and crusting of the skin. This reaction is a positive sign that the skin is rejuvenating, some pinkness may remain for several weeks after treatment.

Is treatment safe?
Lasers have been used to help people improve the way they look since the mid 1980's. With the introduction of pulsed CO2 lasers and the Erbium: Yag laser, Lasercare now has the safest and most effective technology available to smooth out the skin. Treatment is only carried out by consultants and surgeons. If our consultants or surgeons feel that your condition may be unsuitable for laser treatment in any way, they will inform you immediately.

The consultation
Before treatment commences patients have a full consultation so that the consultant assigned to them can assess skin type and evaluate the condition to be treated. At the consultation a personal treatment programme is devised so that patients will know exactly what their particular treatment will involve, how long it will take and what it will cost. You are able to ask any questions you have about treatment and most importantly, about the result of treatment for individual conditions. Having had time to consider the advice and information given at your first consultation and if you have decided to proceed, a treatment session is arranged.

After treatment, there are further consultations at which your progress will be monitored and any further questions can be answered.
How does laser surgery work?
With the CO2 and the Erbium: YAG lasers. Our consultants and surgeons 'paint' the skin evenly with the laser light, removing fine lines and wrinkles and stimulating the replacement of older, damaged skin with youthful, smoother skin. These lasers are so accurate that deeper wrinkles and scars can be selected and treated separately.

How do I find out more?
Your first step is to arrange a consultation with one of our consultants or surgeons. Simply contact the clinic nearest to you, and an appointment will be arranged at your earliest convenience at a time to suit both yourself and the consultant surgeon.

As it is part of our commitment to ensuring total confidence in the treatment we offer, you are welcome to visit any of the Lasercare clinics without obligation, so that you can see our facilities and talk to our clinic staff.

A video is available on skin resurfacing, please ask at your clinic.

Muscle Relaxant therapy

2010-05-15T18:13:00.000-07:00

Muscle Relaxant therapy
The natural ageing process results in the development of lines and wrinkles on the face. There are different causes for these wrinkles and they can be due to ageing, gravity or lines of facial expression ie. frowning and smiling.

These frown lines can cause an obvious appearance of ageing and they can permanently express emotions.

This treatment will relax these muscles.

Muscle Relaxant therapy
The technique in the trained hands of an experienced practitioner will give improved results though it is important to add that, like collagen, this technique is NOT permanent.

The treatment is carried out by an injection to the target area. In some cases there is a necessity for more than one session of injections. This cannot always be determined at the initial consultation as the results vary from person to person.

If there is a need for an additional treatment this can be performed 2-3 weeks after the initial treatment.

The effects of this treatment may last 2-3 months.

In addition to relaxing the muscle with this treatment, lines and wrinkles can be improved further using fillers such as Collagen or Hylaform.

Skin blemishes and birthmark removal by Laser treatment

2010-05-15T18:10:00.000-07:00

How are blemishes and birthmarks caused?
There are two basic colours of birthmarks - red and brown . Brown marks are caused by an excess of melanin, the skin's natural tanning pigment which can cause marks like cafe-au-lait birthmarks. Exposure to the sun's rays can increase the amount of melanin in the skin, creating new brown skin marks or blemishes in children and adults, e.g. freckles and sun, age or liver spots. Red birthmarks are caused by an excess of blood vessels near the surface of the skin, which can vary from pale pink to dark purple. These include port wine stains, strawberry birthmarks, haemangiomas and spider veins. Further red marks or blemishes can occur in later life, such as thread veins or broken veins - and even red scars and red stretchmarks.

Can blemishes and birthmarks be removed?
Traditionally, plastic or cosmetic surgery was the only option for removing birthmarks from the skin. However, recent medical developments have lead to a more effective form of birthmark removal using laser therapy. Surgery can also be used to treat and remove blemishes occurring later on in life, offering safe, permanent and effective treatment to patients of all ages.

How does laser therapy work?
By matching the colour of the laser light to the colour of the unwanted birthmark or blemish, a wide range of skin conditions can be treated using different types of lasers. The laser energy is delivered in a series of extremely brief pulses which - over a series of treatments - break down the red or brown colouring in the skin. Often, more than one laser is required to treat different conditions successfully, so all clinics are equipped with a wide range of state-of-the art-lasers.

Are there any side effects?
Most patients will experience a positive, temporary reaction to the treatment, illustrating that laser therapy is effectively breaking down the unwanted pigment or colour in the skin. This reaction can take the form of bruising, whitening or crusting of the treated area. A few days after the treatment, this reaction will disappear, taking with it some or all of the colouring of the unwanted birthmark or blemish.

How long does treatment take?
The duration of the individual treatment sessions will vary according to the size of the area treated, the type of birthmark or blemish and the type of laser used. Treatment usually takes less than half an hour (and is often much quicker). As each treatment causes the birthmark or blemish to fade, a number of separate treatment sessions are usually necessary to achieve the best results. At Lasercare, patients are advised about the likely number of treatments sessions required. This can vary between two treatments for mild facial broken veins, to ten or more for a large port wine stain.

HEALTHCARE SELF-PROTECTION

2010-05-15T17:45:00.000-07:00

n a recent article in the Denver Post , a major HMO player is pulling out of 8 Colorado counties as well as substantially pulling back in other states regarding Medicare recipients. United HealthCare Corp., based in Minnetonka, MN said it is withdrawing from 86 of the 206 counties where it has medicare plans, in Colorado, Florida, Texas, Illinois, New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, among other states. Their reason is that Medical costs were higher than expected and Medicare payments were lower than anticipated. In the Denver Post (10-3-98) is information about two more HMO's (Blue Cross/Blue Shield) that are discontinuing covering Medicare elderly. How is your HMO provider (If you use one) fairing?

Scenes like this are likely to be repeated for other HMO's who are also facing the need (in their own mind) of raising premiums for the elderly who are covered by Medicare.
We believe HMO's and other providers are going to continue to have operating problems regarding the cost of their brand of medicine, whereas if they would embrace the use of alternative, holistic and complimentary medicine, they would see their costs substantially reduce and fewer people perhaps need medical care. The models for this approach to healthcare have been shown time and time again to be very cost effective in Europe. And the biggest plus of all is the fact the patient thrives on this because the use of alternatives are completely compatible with the Human system!

This gives us the opportunity to suggest to our viewers that with all the things happening in the world today, weather and earth changes, and now the possibility of some health care going away, and one never knows what may come tomorrow, that you plan ahead. The best things we would do in such a situation are the following:

PHYSICAL CONDITION

Get yourself in the best physical shape possible in the least amount of time so you will be ready at anytime should anything happen to your healthcare. If you can do this and feel you are up to strenuous physical activity that may be required for any emergency, then that's good. A good plan is to go to the local gym or just workout with the family or by yourself at home, doing a variety of in-place exercises and jogging and walking. Do these on a regular basis and you will be amazed at the results!
FOODS

Since no one else really cares for your body and your health like you should, it would be a very good idea to look carefully at the foods you are eating and what you are putting into your body. In our opinion we believe that those who would have you think they care about you are in it only for the financial gain and could care less about you and your body. Eliminate and reduce these to lose weight if you have to - and with a well rounded program of exercise, you should lose some weight if you are overweight. Your food can be changed from meats and "fast" foods to vegetables and fruits, which are much more healthy (we think) in the long run, and less expensive. We recommend you get and read the book "Fit for Life". It has the "lifestyle" foods we ourselves eat - plenty of vegetables and fruits. We stay away from all meats, and dairy as well as liquor. We carefully read all labels on everything we buy in the way of food eating nothing with any chemicals and eat moderately. We follow guidelines as regards foods which you can get here in Karinya. Why do we have all the chemically and genetically engineered foods? If it were meant for us to have these, don't you think they would be growing naturally in the fields? We also grow lots of our own food so we know what is in it and where it comes from.
EMERGENCIES & PREPAREDNESS

Obtain packaged foods that will last for a long time and that are designed to provide nutritious and complete meals. These can be stored and constitute an "emergency" store for the single person or the family or any number of people if desired. These are available within the Karinya site if you desire. Stock up on key vitamins and supplements, ones that if you were to be eating reduced rations of food, that would enable a person to still maintain their levels of cell development. A list of vitamins and supplements can be found in Karinya. Preparedness also includes the possibility of the power grids being out. A portable generator and/or solar power can help here.
ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE SPECIALIST

Search around in your community for a person who is knowledgeable regarding alternative, holistic and complimentary medicine and perhaps practices within this sphere of medicine. In our opinion, the use of "standard" Western medicine, especially with regard to HMO's and other practices, are only kidding themselves if they think they can effectively solve all the world's ills through drugs and typical "standard" Western medical practice at an affordable cost. It is these practices which condone the heavy use of drugs and such, at the expense of the patient, which do nothing in the long run to treat the underlying reasons for dis-ease.

The Reiki Degrees

2010-05-15T17:44:00.000-07:00

All Reiki practitioners have qualified to a certain level of achievement and attunement and are divided into three degrees or qualifications.
Reiki 1 - The First Degree

A practitioner qualified to the Reiki 1 Degree has undertaken a course of study with a Reiki Master and has received an "attunement" from that Master which enables him or her to "tune in to" the Reiki energy and deliver it to the patient's body to heal physical ailments. Several people have achieved this degree simply to be able to treat themselves as Reiki can easily be applied in self- healing.
Reiki 2 - The Second Degree

An attunement at the second degree enables the practitioner to heal emotional and mental problems, along with physical complaints. Additionally, it is possible to address past-life and karmic issues, and even to heal into the past and the future, and over great distances. This is achieved by the use of certain secret symbols, only known to practitioners of the second and third degrees. The Reiki 2 practitioner receives these symbols during their training, along with the necessary second attunement which enables their use.
Reiki 3 - The Third Degree - The Reiki Master

The Reiki 3 Practitioner (or Reiki Master) has the additional ability to pass attunements to others, and to train other Reiki practitioners. The qualifications for all the degrees are stringent, and expensive, but none more so that for the Master. The traditional fee for the Master Attunement is $10,000 - around £6,500! However, many Reiki Masters now take the view that Reiki should be more universal, and such fees are outside the range of the majority of people. Vastly reduced fees are often offered.

What is Reiki?

2010-05-15T17:35:00.000-07:00

Reiki is a generic Japanese compound word which has the general case meaning of "healing". Rei means "Universal" or "Spiritual", and Ki is "Life Force Energy". Most westerners take Reiki to mean "Universal Life Force Energy". However, whilst it is this energy that is used during Reiki Healing, the actual methodology employed is known as the Usui Natural Healing System (sometimes written as Usui Shiki Ryoho) from the name of the individual who developed the healing system that uses Reiki energy.
In a Reiki Healing session, the practitioner places his or her hands onto the patients body at a number of strategic points. The patient almost always feels the energy begin to flow into them, either as a heat, a coldness, or a strange "flow" through their body, often in places remote from the point at which the practitioner has their hands. Reiki is said to "know" where it is needed, and flows to the point where it can do most good.

Reiki can help all manner of ailments, both physical and mental, but its most profound effect is an almost immediate feeling of relaxation, resulting in a deep reduction of stress. Karmic and past-life issues can be addressed, and some practitioners can even send Reiki over a distance - sometimes thousands of miles - and still achieve the healing effect.

Reiki practitioners are said to be "attuned" to the Reiki energy, and develop their abilities in conformance with Usui's original system. The development of a practitioner is graded into three degrees.

Reiki healing is suitable for any age, along with pets and even plants! There are many cases on record of almost miraculous cures with this ancient healing system, which conventional medicine has failed to even touch.