Archive for the ‘Europe’Category

Want The Hamster Life? Have It Now At This Hotel…

Hamster Villa

Okay, so I have heard some crazy things in my time when it comes to traveling but I never – ever thought that I would hear about people staying at a hotel that makes you become and life the hamster life.  In my world, I go on vacation to get away from the constant wheel, but here, that is one of the amenities that this French hotel offers up.

This hotel is located in Nantes and is called the Hamster Villa.  It actually allows their guests to sleep in beds of hay dine on some grains and drink from a hamster water fountain – this is certainly the way to appreciate the way a hamster lives!

You also will be getting wi-fi as well as a TV for the human in you and you get it all for about $150.00 per room per night … what a deal!

27

11 2009

Off the Beaten Path in France: 2

alsaceAlsace is another place off the beaten path. It is located in the eastern part of France, and shares its borders with Germany in the east as well as the Lorraine region in the west. It is considered the smallest region in the country, and it is absolutely gorgeous, nestled in between the Rhine and the Vosges mountains.

Because of the climate and setting, Alsace is also ideal for growing grapes and making wine; the environment is incredibly fertile.

It has many trademarks, not the least of which include: lovely villages and streets with charming, half timbered houses; beautiful mountain scenery; many castles, quite a few in ruins, which can make for some very historical exploring.

The personality of Alsace is individual; it is neither solely French nor solely German, but instead exists somewhere in the middle. That may be the reason it is considered to be one of the friendliest regions in all of France.

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22

10 2009

Off the Beaten Path in France: 1

cote-d-azur-lgWhen most people think of visiting France, Paris is the first destination that comes to mind. The city is unquestionably a beautiful, exciting one, but there are many other fun destinations in the country, such as the Cote d’Azur.

It comprises some of the Mediterranean coast on the south eastern side of France, and it is well known for its many resorts. It is rich, luxurious, and definitely sophisticated.

Don’t worry, though, if you catch it in the off season, the prices can be a bit more reasonable, and trust me when I say that resorts are not the only thing the Cote d’Azur has to offer, not by any means.

That is why you need to go off the beaten path. Nice, Cannes, and Saint Tropez are great, but they are not the only things there.

20

10 2009

Visit Rome On your Next Vacation!

rome1If there is one thing that sums up Rome, it is going to be the beauty and the history behind it.  Rome is by far one of the most beautiful places to visit and if you have never been – you are absolutely missing out on a lot.  Rome has a lot of attractions available to suit any needs of any tourist.  Things like churches, beaches, market places, galleries, historical sites and museums are all available for you to tour in Rome.

Rome is also houses some of the most beautiful hotels in the world too, so you will be staying in some of the best luxury hotels or even budget hotels if you wish.  No matter where you stay in Rome, you are definitely going to enjoy yourself – how could you not in a beautiful place like this?

The food is another thing that you have to look forward to.  Rome has some of the best restaurants in the world and if you can make it in Rome, you pretty much can make it anywhere!

16

07 2009

London England Is The Greatest Vacation!

London

London is one of those places that so, so, so many people immediately think of whenever they want to go to England as a vacation.  London is definitely a place to go and it is certainly the best place in the world to visit.  There are so many things to see and so many different things to do!  For example, did you know that there are bike tours that you can take all over London?  Well, I certainly did not until I took one!

Another thing that you absolutely have to check out whenever you are in London is the National Gallery.  This is one of London’s houses that actually has some of the greatest collections of the very best European paintings in the whole, wide world.  Entrance is free and for once, these pictures truly do belong to the public.  Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre is another must that you should see – it is, after all, where all of the Bard’s plays were first stages.

So if you are looking for something to do in London, I swear there really is something for everyone in this small piece of heaven!

24

05 2009

Must-See Places in Paris

Paris Skyline

We have often wondered why everyone is crazy about Paris. What is it that is so special about this city with blinding lights? While the list is endless, here are some famous tourist destinations in Paris:

The Louvre: One of the most famous museums known around the world for its magnificence. It houses the world’s most diverse collection of pre-20th century art. It also serves as the fortress for the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, Caravaggio, Rembrandt, and many more.

The Norte Dame Cathedral: A trip to Paris is not complete without paying a visit to one of the most beautiful cathedrals in all of Europe. The Nortre Dame Cathedrals stands proud of medieval architecture—spire, stained glass windows and breathtaking towers. Climbing atop the cathedral to see an impressive view of the city will make you realize why it’s one of the top attractions of the city.

Eiffel Tower: Can you imagine Paris without its famous landmark? This iron tower, which represents modern Paris, was built by Gustav Eiffel for the 1889 World Exposition. It was once unbelievably unpopular, but now it serves as the crowning glory of the Paris’ skyline.

Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Elysées:
This 164-foot arch was built during the reign of Emperor Napoléon I to represent military power and victory. The structures impressive sculptures honor the generals and soldiers during Napoléon I’s reign. Visiting the Arc and walking along the majestic avenue of Champs-Elysées is a must for all first time Paris visitors.

Read the rest of this entry →

04

01 2009

Exploring the Castles of Finland

Turku Castle FinlandWhen you look for exciting places to visit in Finland, internet, tourists, and locals will point you to the magnificent castles in the southern part of the country.

The Finland castles are among the top attractions for those who love great architectures and for those who value a great piece of history.

Most of the castles in Finland were built during the rule of the Swedish over the country. They were erected to help the Swedish crown protect their settlements against the invasions of the Russians.

Today, most of the castles in Finland lay in ruins while some of these great structures have been restored to their original grandeur. These castles are worth the attention and time of any tourist since they are some of the oldest buildings in the country. Read the rest of this entry →

15

12 2008