France, Paris

Paris Sightseeing & Travel Tips
By Jacy G

The main difference Paris offers to the other major capitals of the world is, I think, their buildings and architecture have been carefully restricted and therefore one can generally always see the sky wherever you may be. Paris has all the bustle of any capital but less frenetic than London for instance. There is always time to chill which in my opinion the French do very well. The French also appreciate beauty and generally that is reflected in their women who take care of themselves and their appearance - much to the great pleasure of the men, no doubt.

If you are an art lover, take a trip to Le Louvre. The much debated pyramid to some is an eyesore, to others a careful fusion between the old and the contemporary but a discussion point none the less. Once inside Le Louvre, you can marvel at the numerous works of art including the famed Mona Lisa which is surprisingly small in size. I was very surprised by this when I saw it. Something talked about so much being so very small. It’s quite ironic really. Quirks aside, Le Louvre is well worth a visit. I personally can't spend hours looking at a single piece of art so I whipped round the entire exhibition in less than a day. If you like taking things at a more leisurely pace, you may need to make a few visits to satiate yourself.

If you are of a religious disposition and also appreciate art, then the Sacre Coeur is the place to go. You need to be quite fit of course if you are walking as there is a mighty climb to reach it. Once there, allow yourself to be inspired by the amazingly beautiful ceiling fresco's. As beautiful as any sky on a clear sunny day. The blue of the sky is incredible. When I paint, I never manage to get colours quite as vibrant on my palette. Still, being a house of God, one might expect something a little more magnificent. C'est la vie. There is of course Notre Dame of religious interest as well - which is not nearly as pretty - more eerie if you ask me - possibly scary. Still it's worth a visit just to see the gargoyles and the story telling artwork inside its walls. Those too are a bit scary - dark and sombre - but that probably has more to do with the dim lighting.

If you are in the mood for love or history, what better way to spend an afternoon by floating down the River Seine. Relax, sit back and enjoy the views. The guided tours are very informative and another great way to see the capital.

Anyway, those are my favourite places in Paris but following closely behind are the Arch de Triumph, the Catacombs, Montmartre, the Latin Quarter and Le Tour Eiffel (the Eiffel Tower). Notably, the Eiffel Tower was originally a temporary structure but has survived incredibly well considering its humble beginnings.

About The Author
Jacy G is a great fan of France and all things French. For accommodation deals visit Cheap Hotels France.

Pictures
Eiffel Tower at sunrise (Tristan Nitot)
Arc de Triomphe (Cezary Piwowarski)

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Las Vegas, USA

The Basics Of Las Vegas
Las Vegas Choices

If a trip to Vegas is planned for the near future, there are a few basic things you should know. First, walking shoes are an extremely important item to pack. Like most Vegas tourists, you will be spending a lot of time walking, waiting in lines, and you want to be as comfortable as possible.

The second thing to keep in mind is the weather. Overall, the weather in Las Vegas is very predictable. During the months of October to April, the weather will err on the cooler side in the evening, so be sure to pack some warm clothes. Vegas is notorious for being extremely hot, and possibly uncomfortably so, during the months of May to September. No matter what, be sure to pack sunscreen to protect your skin.

Vegas can become extremely busy around the holidays which may mean the prices are only bound to go up. If you want to save some money, be sure to book during off-peak times. If the peak-season is when you want to travel, plan on booking in advance to make sure you have a seat on the plane, and your first choice in accommodations.

Remember that Las Vegas is a desert town, so you can easily become dehydrated during your stay. This is a much drier climate than most people are accustomed to, and the heat/dryness can sneak up on you if you are not prepared. No matter what, be sure to drink lots of water.

Vegas is a haven for golfers. Don't forget to pack your best clubs, and make time to play a few rounds. A nice set of dress clothes is also a must if you plan on heading out for dinner and a show.

While Vegas is famous for big spenders, it is quite possible to spend thriftily and have a nice vacation for two at around USD$100 per day. At the other end of the spectrum, big spenders can drop thousands on one meal very easily. Pay attention to the places you are considering before you enter if you are on a limited budget.

If you plan to stray far from your hotel, you may want to consider renting a car, or driving your own. It's easy to lose track of time while inside various casinos, and sometimes the distances can be deceiving.

While many people only think of casinos when thinking of Vegas, the city is just as well-known for their weddings. More than 122,000 couples apply for marriage licenses in Las Vegas each year. The licensing fees for marriage in Vegas is around USD$55 (this is the current rate, keep in mind that this rate is subject to change), and then other wedding charges on top of that. The great thing about a Vegas wedding is that you can go as informal and small or as bold and lavish as you can afford.

Whatever you are planning - a gambling party, marriage, rounds of golf, a bachelor party, or just spending time with your friends and family, this can be a wonderful trip. No matter what, HAVE FUN. Enjoy the sites, catch a few shows, enjoy the buffets, and spend some time at the hotel spa or pool getting some R&R before heading home.

Remember: "What happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas". So let your hair down and have some fun during your time here and be sure to make plans for your return trip.

About The Author
For more information visit the Las Vegas Choices website.

Pictures
Las Vegas strip (Jon Sullivan)
Hoover Dam (Selbst Gemacht)
Las Vegas desert

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo, Japan - Places You Must See
By Jed Jones

If you are heading to Tokyo, Japan and have no time to read or even buy a thick travel guide, no worries. I have prepared a concise, must-see list of places that you can squeeze in during your trip. So, print this out, stick it in your pocket and go!

1. Harajuku
Known for its street youth sporting out-of-this world costumes, its great shopping and its proximity to the famous Meiji Shrine, Harajuku is eye candy for the intrepid traveller of any age. Walk around, shop a bit, or have lunch while you people watch. Directions: Take the Yama-no-te line and get off at Harajuku station.

2. Kamakura
Okay, technically Kamakura is not in Tokyo at all and is actually about an hour outside of the city. But, as my absolutely favourite place to visit in Eastern Japan, I could not resist including it here. Kamakura is the place to go if you are hankering for a taste of old Japan - Buddhist temples and traditional food - but do not have time to go all the way to Kyoto or Nara in Western Japan. Visiting here feels like you are stepping back in time. Directions: Take the Shonan-Shinjuku line and get off at Kita Kamakura station.

3. Ginza
For those who like flashy clothes, impressive architecture, clubs, and upscale shopping, Ginza is a fun place to spend time. Directions: Take the Tokyo Subway line and exit at Ginza station.

4. Tokyo Tower
The Tokyo Tower was built in 1958, is red and white and is actually 13 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower. Its base and surrounding areas also offer fun activities for kids. Directions: Take the Mita line and exit at Onarimon or take the Oedo line and exit at Akabanebashi station.

5. Imperial Palace
If you are in the mood for a look at the site of the famous ruling place of the Tokugawa Shoguns of the Edo period (lasting until about 140 years ago), visit the beautiful East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. The place has a regal serenity which fires the imagination while it pleasing architecture buffs. Directions: Take the Toei Mita line to Hibiya station.

6. Chinatown in Yokohama
Chinatown in Yokoyama, like Kamakura, is technically not in Tokyo, but do not let that stop you from paying a visit. Stepping into China Town is like stepping into another world. From any of the ornate and colorful gates that greet you to the throngs of people and authentic Chinese food, China Town is a spectacle worth seeing. Directions: Take the Minato-Mirai line and get off at Motomachi-Chukagai station.

7. Shinjuku National Gardens
Shinjuku National Garden, or Shinjuku Gyoen, was completed in 1906 on the site of a private mansion belonging to a Lord Naito. It was later designated as a national garden at the end of World War II. It covers 144 acres and features gardens of Formal French, Formal English, and Japanese styles. Directions: Take the Maru-no-uchi line and get off at Shinjuku Gyoen Mae station.

About the Author
Enjoy your next trip to Tokyo even more by saving money. Learn the secrets to cheap travel as told by a fired, ex-travel agent at Don't Sugar Coat It.

Pictures
Ginza
Imperial Palace Entrance
Tokyo Train

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Phuket, Thailand

Phuket, Thailand
By James Bukovsky

Phuket has grown into one of the premier holiday destinations in South East Asia and is one of the busiest travel destinations in Thailand. It has replaced Bali as the most popular holiday island in the region.

What makes Phuket island such a great travel destination?
Phuket is first of all an inexpensive holiday destination. Phuket hotels, resorts and guesthouses can be found in all price categories and ratings and prices are considerably cheaper then what one would encounter in Europe or America.

Dining in restaurants or buying drinks in bars or clubs on Phuket is also less expensive then what most tourists are used to paying back in their home countries.

Phuket Beaches
The palm tree lined beaches of Phuket Island are of course world famous due to its crystal white sand and clear water of the Andaman Sea. Some of the nicest and most popular beaches found on Phuket Island are the beaches at Patong, Kamala, Karon, Kata and Nai Harn.

Phuket Nightlife
The Phuket nightlife is another reason why many tourists visit Phuket each year on holiday. Many tourists seem to keep coming back each year for especially the nightlife and bars of Phuket.

Most Phuket island nightlife venues can be found in Patong beach along the well known Soi Bangla. A number of large clubs are located along Bangla road in Patong including the very popular Tiger disco and the new Seduction Disco.

You can also find along Bangla road and the many small streets leading into Soi Bangla hundreds of beer bars. Each beer bar has a number of beautiful Thai ladies working for them who there to please the clients.

Phuket Shopping
Going shopping in Phuket in the past was not one of the most interesting activities for tourists due to the lack of a good variety of shops and products. Most of the shops sold the same tailor made clothing, bootleg movies and software and fake designer clothing.

Over the last few years however, a number of large shopping malls have opened on Phuket housing well known international retailers, unique local boutiques as well as international restaurant outlets such as Outback steakhouse and Burger King.

If you are going to visit Phuket for a holiday then please make sure to visit the brand new Phuket Junkceylon mall in Patong or the Central Carnival Mall along the Phuket by-pass road.

About the Author
Article by James Bukovsky. For more information about Phuket visit the Phuket Travel Guide. For great and inexpensive hotel accommodation in Phuket visit Club Bamboo.

Pictures
Map of Phuket
Promthep Cape, Phuket
Karon Beach, Phuket

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Tokyo, Japan

The Beaches Of Vietnam

The Beaches Of Vietnam
By Dwight H Zimpel

Vietnam's 2,100 mile (3,380 kilometre) coastline and thousands of islands provide many attractive beaches that invite travellers to relax and enjoy the sound of the surf and the warmth of the sun. Some of the beach locales are developed with hotels and restaurants to attract discriminating travellers, while others offer secluded primitive beaches for daytime picnics or small group camping.

Here is the low-down on some of the more popular Vietnam beach destinations - but not all.

Starting in the north is Ha Long Bay with its many sandstone islands - a photographer's paradise. Cat Ba is the largest island in Ha Long Bay, attracting many visitors. Ha Long Bay has several other islands where the hotel junks anchor and allow passengers to enjoy a beach swim.

Do Son Beach, on a small peninsula near Haiphong, is shaded by sandalwood trees with pine tree covered hills nearby and mountains in the distance. Close to Ha Long Bay, though not as busy.

50 miles (80 kilometres) south of the Imperial City of Hue is Lang Co Beach. The water is warm year around and very shallow. It offers great scenery such as distant mountains, nearby forests and a beautiful blue sea. Diving, hiking, boating and fishing are offered here. China Beach, between Danang and Hoi An, is the beach best known to Americans. This community is attracting many upscale resort hotels. China Beach is adjacent to the Marble Mountain Monastery. Bring your hiking boots. Small marble statues made by local artists make great souvenirs. China Beach is also about 10 miles (16 kilometres) from Hoi An, a popular tourist attraction.

Hoi An with its beach area is the Vietnam destination for the budget traveller. Hoi An has much to offer - restaurants, shopping and tours to China Beach and Marble Mountain as well as the Cham ruins of My Son. Huong Beach on Cham Island provides a bit of relaxation from the stresses of travelling.

Nha Trang, the Riviera of the South China Sea, is the next beach destination. Nha Trang is surrounded by mountains together with a 5 mile (8 kilometre) white sand beach front and over 70 off shore islands. Scuba diving and snorkelling tours are available. You can relax on the beach and enjoy great sea food restaurants. Walk Tran Phu Street, which runs parallel to the beach, or hire a cyclo for a tour of the Cham ruins, market and Buddhist shrines.

On to Mui Ne Beach, about 120 miles (193 kilometres) east of Saigon. Awesome sand dunes have been created by continual winds. Wind surfing and kite surfing are popular here. Mui Ne offers the strangest weather in Vietnam - It is actually hot and dry there.

Vung Tau - The beaches at Vung Tau aren't that great, being near Saigon it attracts many Vietnamese weekenders as well as tourists. Vung Tau is about 80 miles (129 kilometres) from Saigon and can be reached by hydrofoil for about US$10 return.

Ha Tien is on the border with Cambodia (5 miles/8 kilometres away) and is home to several superb beaches. Hon Chong Beach has soft white sand and calm tropical water, while nearby Tien Cave attracts visitors with two beach entrances. Nearby islands attract scuba divers, snorkellers and those just wanting to enjoy a boat ride.

Phu Quoc Island, in the Gulf of Thailand, is Vietnam's largest island, offering mountains, jungles and pleasant sandy beaches; it attracts nature lovers and sun worshipers. The furthest west of the Vietnam's beaches is Bai Truong Beach, here you can sit, relax, and watch the sun go down on the Gulf of Thailand.

If you're a traveller who enjoys catching a few rays, Vietnam's beaches should be on your itinerary. Beach accommodation is still a bargain. Plan a Vietnam beach tour and enjoy tremendous amounts of sun and sand, together with the many cultural and scenic attractions of Vietnam.

About the Author
Dwight Zimpel, Your Vietnam Tour Guide, is a Vietnam Veteran and has made 5 recent trips to Vietnam. He has lived in the Middle East and travelled the world for the past 20 years.

Pictures
Nha Trang Beach
Islands in Nha Trang
Island in Ha Long Bay

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