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France Travel

France Travel Guide - French Trip Planning, French Culture and Destinations You are here: About > Travel > France for Visitors Travel Go France Essentials New Year's Eve in Paris and France Worst of France 2005 Paris Travel Guide Top French Ski Resorts Best New Year's Eve Champagne Articles & Resources Destinations Trip Planning Transportation Interests & Situations Money, Safety & Issues Things to Do in France Where to Stay in France Staying Connected Blogs Picture Galleries Culture, Language & People Fun, Freebies & Quizes Relocating to France Nudism, Sex & Gay Travel D-Day & Historic Travel Buyer's Guide Before You Buy Top Picks Sites Selling French Products Before You Buy the Gift of Travel Gifts for the France Fanatic Product Reviews Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the France for Visitors newsletter! See Online Courses Search France for Visitors From Kelby Carr , Your Guide to France for Visitors . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! Lose Weight with the French Diet The French eat rich foods, drink lots of wine and smoke. So why are they so thin and fit? Recent news reports have touted the wonders of the so-called French diet. Just what is the secret to the French paradox? During the time I lived in France, I ate whatever I wanted (think chocolate croissants for breakfast, tartes aux fruits rouges at night for dessert). I never dieted, and I never went to the gym. I indulged in wine. Yet I lost a significant amount of weight during that time. My theories why the French diet works are in my article, Lose Weight with the French Diet: Unraveling the Mysteries of Why it Works . Wednesday December 28, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Worst of France 2005 The year 2005 was a tough one for France, as rioting spread throughout the nation and the grand city of Paris lost its front-runner bid for the Olympics. Here is a recap of the bad headlines of 2005 for France with Worst of France 2005 . Wednesday December 28, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Top Ski Resort Hotels in France France features some of the world's best skiing, be it in the mesmerizing Pyrenees mountains lining the Spanish border or the magestic Alps along the Italian and Swiss borders. France also encompasses no less than five other mountain ranges. The hotel accommodations at some of these resorts range from upscale and luxurious to inviting and cozy. This list of Top Ski Resort Hotels in France features the best places to stay for French ski enthusiasts. Monday December 26, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) New Year's Eve in Paris and Other French Cities The French really know how to celebrate New Year's, whether it's clubbing in Paris or the sublime midnight grape-picking event in the Midi Pyrenees or an upscale, medieval celebration in a Loire castle. Find out how to plan a New Year's Eve visit to Paris or France , and which events and festivals are planned for the turn of the new year. Even if you can't zip over to Paris to celebrate, you'll also find tips on finding French New Year's Eve parties in your town or even how to plan a France-themed New Year's Eve party at your own house! Bonne fete! Wednesday December 21, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Top French Champagnes and Sparkling Wines Looking for a last-minute gift idea? Planning a New Year's Eve get together? If you plan to celebrate with some bubbly, you want to be sure you do it in style. You can get a crappy grocery store sparkling wine, but only vintages from the Champagne region are truly called Champagne. There is also a small village in France that claims it, in fact, invented sparkling wine centuries ago. Here is a list of the Top French Champagnes and Sparkling Wines for New Year's Eve, wedding toasts, celebrations or just for fun for all price ranges! Friday December 16, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Christmas 2005 Gift Guide for Francophiles, Travelers and Foodies Here is the Christmas 2005 Gift Guide , filled with some of the top gifts for travelers, francophiles and foodies. The guide also includes buying advice for choosing travel guidebooks as gifts, how to create a French gift basket, as well as tips on giving the gift of travel. Whether the recipient on your list loves gourmet food gifts, French wine, home decor items, is planning a honeymoon or simply adores anything trs francais , you can find the perfect gift and buying advice here. Friday December 16, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Most Romantic Paris Hotels Paris is the city of romance, and a tremendously popular destination for couples, lovers and honeymooners. The city is filled with cozy, intimate romantic hotels and accomodations. Be sure you get the best of this snuggle time with this list of Most Romantic Paris Hotels . Thursday December 15, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Top Budget Paris Hotels Paris is one of the world's most expensive cities, but it's also one of the top tourist attractions. Find out how to conserve your cash for the finer thinks, like a fabulous dinner or incredible shopping, with this list of Top Budget Paris Hotels . It features high-quality cheap places to stay in Paris. Monday December 12, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Top Upscale, Luxury Hotels in Paris If you're going to visit the luscious city of Paris and you have the means, why not do it in true style? Paris has some of the world's finest, most luxurious hotels. This is a city that is well-suited to upscale services. Get a list of the Top Upscale, Luxury Hotels in Paris , which includes prestigious names like the famous George V, Ritz Paris and even a bona fide castle outside of the city. Friday December 9, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Hot Deal for Visiting Paris in the Springtime You've just gotta love Paris in the Springtime. But then, so does everyone else, driving up those prices. But the France Tourism Office and Gate 1 Travel are offering a hot bargain, allowing you to get a 6-day Paris spring fling for $499 per person, airfare and hotel included. Find out more on the Paris Tourism Office site. It would make an incredible Christmas gift, but be sure to consult my advice on what to do Before You Buy the Gift of Travel . For more on Paris, be sure to see: Paris Travel Guide Top Paris Travel Guidebooks Free Things to Do in Paris How I 'Do' Paris Wednesday December 7, 2005 | permalink | comments (1) Email to a Friend Display Latest Headlines | | | Read Archives Advertisement Related Blogs Dispatches from France Blog Paris Blog French Word-a-Day Blog La Coquette Blog Chroniques dune Fraise Nice Blog Rsidence Les Marronniers Provence Blog L'Oiseau Blog Chocolate and Zucchini Blog Forty Days in Paris Blog Most Popular "Naked City" Christmas in Paris Photo Tour Paris Sex District Top Paris Attractions Christmas in France What's Hot New Year's Eve in France Paris Gay Pride Parade Host A France-Themed Party Nice, France Photo Gallery Camping in France Related Topics Europe for Visitors French Language French Cuisine Honeymoons / Romantic Getaways Wine Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2005 About, Inc., A part of the New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Around About New Video iPod - Review POLL: Must-Have Gadgets VIDEO: Portable Gaming VIDEO: Choosing a TV Hugh Hefner's Life What's Hot New Year's Eve in France Paris Gay Pride Parade Host A France-Themed Party Nice, France Photo Gallery Camping in France Headlines Lose Weight with the French Diet The French eat rich foods, drink lots of wine and Worst of France 2005 The year 2005 was a tough one for France, as Top Ski Resort Hotels in France France features some of the world's best skiing, be it New Year's Eve in Paris and Other French Cities The French really know how to celebrate New Year's, whether

Cruise Vacations, Europe River

Europe River Cruise Vacations, Europe River Cruise Travel, Luxury Europe River Cruise Tours Europe River Cruise Vacations, Europe River Cruise Travel, Luxury Europe River Cruise Tours Site Index Europe Luxury River Cruise Vacation Guide: Romantic River Cruise Tours and Honeymoons Europe Luxury River Cruise Vacations, Travel and Tours Specialists Europe Luxury River Cruise Vacations, call 1-415-446 5252 to book. Open every day! Luxury Cruise Destinations World Luxury Cruises Asia River Cruises European River Cruises River Cruises in America Hawaii Luxury Cruises South Pacific/Tahiti Baltic/Russia Cruises Scandinavia/North Cape Cruises Alaska Luxury Cruises Caribbean Cruises Panama Canal Cruises Mexico Luxury Cruises Mediterranean West Cruises Europe Western Cruises British Isles/ Ireland Greek Isle/Aegean Bermuda Cruises Costa Rica Cruises South America Cruises Amazon River Cruises Antarctica Cruises Australia/New Zealand Bahamas Luxury Cruises Southern Africa Luxury Cruises Canarys/North Africa Far East/Orient Luxury Cruises Southeast Asia Luxury Cruises Trans-Atlantic Luxury Cruises Trans-Pacific Luxury Cruises Russia Europe Cruises Costa Rica Luxury Cruises East Coast Cruises India Luxury Cruises Israel/Egypt Luxury Cruises New England/Canada Red Sea/Suez Canal West Coast Cruises Alaska Cruise Private Shore Excursions Testimonials Contact Us Europe River Cruises and Tours Guide In this section you will find all the the best Europe river cruises and river cruise tour vacations. Our Europe river cruises are unmatched adventures in exquisitely appointed luxury, allowing an intimate connection with the land that no other cruise can equal. Our Europe river cruise tours offer first class accommodations, gourmet dining, and world-class service. The small ship size on our river cruises enables personal service unrivaled in the cruise industry. The opulence of luxury river cruise travel harkens to by-gone eras with a pace and flavor long forgotten. Europe River Cruises and Europe River Cruise Travel: Classic Rhine -- Amsterdam to Basel Rivers & Waterways of Europe·Rembrandt 11 Days / 10 Nights Price $2,595 - $4,295 Exploring Hemingways Europe -- 2006 8 Days / 7 Nights Price $2,895 Frances Dordogne Valley and Prehistoric Treasures 9 Days / 8 Nights Price $3,195 Italy's Apulia -- An Undiscovered Gem -- 2006 9 Days / 8 Nights Price $3,195 Journey of the Czars 14 Days / 13 Nights Price $1,795-$4,195 Portugal's Douro River Valley -- 2006 9 Days / 8 Nights Portugal's Douro River Valley -- 2005 9 Days / 8 Nights Price $1,895 - $2,495 River of Emperors -- Vienna to the Danube Delta 13 Days / 12 Nights Price $3,395 - $5,095 Springtime in Holland & Belgium -- 2006 12 Days / 11 Nights Price $2,795 - $5,095 Danube's Enchanted Valleys and Festivals of Music 9 Days / 8 Nights Price $1,995 - $3,695 ' Actief': The Upper Thames (2005/ 6 Nights) 7 Days / 6 Nights The Ultimate River Cruise 19 Days / 18Nights 'Amaryllis': Burgundy, Franche, the Loire & So. France ( 2005 ) 7 Days / 6 Nights 'Anacoluthe': Normandy (2005 ) 6 Nights Magnificent Europe 16 Days $126 per person. Europe's Heartland Cruise 14 Days Price $99 - $999 'Hirondelle': Burgundy and Franche (2005) 6 Nights 'La Belle Epoque': Burgundy and Chablis (2005) 6 Nights CHARTER FOR 12 PASSENGERS: Jul 11 - Aug 28, Oct 24 - Nov 6: $35,000 May 2 - Jul 10, Aug 29 - Oct 23: $42,500 The Blue Danube Discovery 14 Days Price $99 - $999 'La Bonne Humeur': Upper Loire (2005) 6 Nights Price $ 5,190 'Lafayette': Burgundy (2005 ) 6 Nights CHARTER OPTION: Oct 16 - Nov 12: $39,800 Apr 24 - Oct 15: $45,800 The Legendary Danube 12 Days Port charges: $63 per person Price $99 - $999 Le Bon Vivant': Middle Loire (2005 ) 6 Nights CHARTER: Apr 25 - Oct 30: $ 28,000 'L'Impressionniste': Provence, Camargue and Languedoc (2005) 6 Nights CHARTER FOR 12 PASSENGERS: Apr 4 - 24, Nov 7 - 20: $29,500 Apr 25 - May 1, Jul 11 - Aug 28, Oct 24 - Nov 6: $35,000 May 2 - Jul 10, Aug 29 - Oct 23: $42,500 'Magna Carta': The Lower Thames (2005) 6 Nights Price $3,390 'Marjorie II' in France: Northern Burgundy and Chablis (2005) 6 Nights CHARTER FOR 11 or 12 PASSENGERS: Jun 1 - Aug 30, Oct 19 - Nov 8: $37,950 Aug 31 - Oct 18: $41,250 'Marjorie' in France: Northern Burgundy (2005) 6 Nights CHARTER FOR 8 or 7 PASSENGERS: Jun 1 - Aug 30, Oct 19 - Nov 8: $24,150 Aug 31 - Oct 18: $26,250 'Napole': The Sane in Burgundy, Valley du Rhone & Provence (2005) 6 Nights CHARTER FOR 12 PASSENGERS: Mar 28 - Oct 30: $54,900 'Princesse Royale': Holland and Belgium (2005) 6 Nights CHARTER: Mar 20-May 14 ("Tulip Cruises" in Holland); May 15-Nov 12 (Holland & Belgium): $ 45,800 Romantic Rhine & Mosel to Historic Alsace & Lorraine 12 Days / 11 Nights Price 2,795 - 5,095 'Roi Soleil': Provence,Camargue,Languedoc and Canal du Midi (2005) 6 Nights 'Scottish Highlander': Caledonian Canal (2005) 6 Nights CHARTER FOR 8 PASSENGERS: Nov 7 - 20: $14,500 Jul 11-Aug 28, Oct 24 - Nov 6: $17,500 May 2 - Jul 10; Aug 29-Oct 23: $21,750 'Shannon Princess II': Ireland's River Shannon and Lough Derg (2005) 6 Nights CHARTER FOR 10 PASSENGERS: Apr 25 - Oct 16: $31,000 The Magnificent Danube Aboard 'M/S River Cloud' (2005-05) 11 Days Double occupancy $5,990 $7,490 Single supplement $2,415 $3,785 The Magnificent Danube 'Cruise-Only' Aboard River Cloud (2005) 8 Days Double occupancy $3,300 - $4,800 Single supplement, $1,650 - $4,800 Waterways of the Czars: Moscow to St. Petersburg (2005-06) 13 Days Double Occupancy $ 6,345 - $ 7,545 Single Supplement $ 1,710 - $ 3,790 Along the Danube (2005 / 06) 14 Days Dutch Masters -- 2005 9 Days / 8 Nights Price $1,995 - $3,695 Exploring Holland & Belgium 9 Days / 8 Nights Price $2,095 - $4,395 Highlights of Holland & Flanders 9 Days / 8 Nights Price $2,095 - $4,395 La Belle France 10 Days / 9 Nights Price $3,895 - $4,395 'Alouette': Bordeaux, So. France, Beaujolais, Burgundy & Franche-Comt (2005) Jul 4 - Sep 4, Oct 3 - Oct 30: $22,500 May 16 - Jul 3, Sep 5 - Oct 2: $25,900 'Chanterelle': Upper Loire (2005) 6 Nights CHARTER: Mar 6 - Apr 23, Oct 16 - Nov 12: $37,180 Apr 24 - Oct 15: $43,780 'Fleur de Lys': Burgundy, Franche-and Beaujolais (2005) 6 Nights 'La Bonne Amie': Upper Loire (2005 / 6 Nights) 6 Nights Double Occupancy, per person: $ 5,190 Single Supplement: $ 5,190 'L'Art de Vivre': Burgundy and Canal du Nivernais (2005) 6 Nights CHARTER FOR 8 PASSENGERS: Nov 7 - 20: $17,000 Jul 11 - Aug 28, Oct 24 - Nov 6: $20,000 May 2 - Jul 10, Aug 29 - Oct 23: $24,000 'L'Impressionniste' Six-Week Cruise: Avignon to Amsterdam (2005) 42 Days CHARTER PRICES: 12 Passengers for 6 weeks: $250,000 12 Passengers for 3 weeks: $125,000 'Lorraine': Alsace-Lorraine (2005) 6 Nights CHARTER: Oct 16 - Nov 12: $39,800 Apr 24 - Oct 15: $45,800 'Mirabelle': Bordeaux-Dordogne (2005 ) 6 Nights CHARTER: Oct 16 - Nov 12: $43,780 Apr 24 - Oct 15: $50,380 'Provence': Provence and the Camargue (2005) 6 Nights CHARTER FOR 50 PASSENGERS: Oct 16 - Nov 12: $111,740 Apr 24 - Oct 15: $130,140 Why Should You Use our Virtuoso River Cruise Specialists ? We are Virtuoso, "Specialists in the Art of Travel". Described by Conde Nast Traveler as "one of the finest agencies...a reliable indicator of experience, knowledge, and industry clout." We are recommended by the Discovery Travel Channel, the Today Show, Conde Nast Traveler, Forbes Magazine, ESPN TV, Fine Living TV, and Neiman Marcus Awards Program and National Geographic. Our Virtuoso River Cruise Specialists offer exclusive insider connections and industry expertise on luxury vacations- along with the guidance and know-how you require to make educated travel choices. We are very innovative, add valuable solutions that consistently exceed our customers expectations and strive to always provide the ultimate travel experience. The pages in this guide list luxury Europe River Cruises and private Europe River Cruise Travel throughout the world, visiting countless exotic and wonderful places where memories of a lifetime are made. The Europe River Cruises are presented geographically, but please be sure to work with our Virtuoso Europe River Cruise Vacation specialists to ensure that you are aware of every new journey and all the latest special packages. Book Your Europe Vacation Submit a vacation planner to our Europe Travel Specialists Client Testimonials about our services Search Your Vacation, Tour or Cruise Luxury Europe Accommodations Europe Luxury Hotels European Hotels European Luxury Villas Europe Luxury Tours Central Eastern & Western England & Ireland Tours Scandinavia & Russia Tour Portugal & Spain Tours Escape to Europe Cruises France Luxury Tours Italy Luxury Tours Europe Train Vacations Europe River Cruises Eastern Europe Packages Europe Bike Vacations Europe Active Vacations Moderatly Priced Europe Tours England & Ireland Tours France Vacations Italy Tours Central & Eastern Europe Tours European River Cruises Europe Luxury Cruises Western Europe Cruises European River Cruises Luxury Cruises World Luxury Cruises Helpful Travel Links Other Helpful Travel Links Instant Passports in 24 hours Travelex Luxury Travel Insurance CSA Luxury Travel Insurance Travel Guard Insurance Travel Safety Expert Current Travel Warnings Travel Agent Career Opportunities Bookmark this page Free, Full Service Europe River Cruise Vacation Planners Click here to save money, time and stress planning, making reservations, or booking your Europe river cruise vacation with our full service Virtuoso Travel Consultants . We are recommended, authorized Virtuoso Europe Luxury River Cruise Specialists, and will arrange every little detail to make sure you have a wonderful, carefree vacation experience at no extra charge! You may call our Europe Luxury River Cruise Consultants, but first--- we'd really appreciate it if you complete our " Europe Luxury River Cruise Vacation Planner" so we have all your requirements beforehand and are prepared to present you with all your options and up-to-the-minute specials. Thank you very much! Call 1-800 -330 -8820 to book your Europe River Cruise vacation. For Luxury Vacations: "EuropeLuxury Vacation Planner" For Luxury Tours: "Europe Tour Planner" After you've completed your vacation planner you may call 1-800 -330 -8820 to book your luxury vacation. Thank you very much! Regional Travel and Vacation Guides Africa Asia Australia Caribbean Islands Canada Central America Europe Fiji Islands Hawaiian Islands Indian Ocean Costa Rica Mexico Mediterranean Middle East New Zealand South America South Pacific Tahiti Islands United States Special Interest Vacations Corporate Vacations Adventure Travel Ski Vacations Culinary Vacations Small Ship Vacations Virtuoso Hotels Spa Vacations Private Jet Vacations Family Vacations NBC Golf Getaways Scuba Diving All-inclusive Vacations Grand Prix Vacations Luxury Villas Luxury Tours Honeymoon Specials Wedding Vacations National Geographic Space Adventures Yacht Charters Golfing Vacations Active Vacations Biking Vacations Hiking Vacations Sport Travel Train Vacations ClubMed Vacations River Cruises Europe River Cruises Luxury Cruise Destinations Luxury Cruises Cruise Vacations South Pacific/Tahiti Hawaiian Islands Scandinavia Alaska Cruises Caribbean Panama Canal Mexico Cruises Mediterranean West Europe Western British Isles/ Ireland Greek Isle/Aegean Bermuda Cruises Costa Rica South America River Amazon Antarctica Australia/New Zealand Bahamas Africa Southern Canarys/North Africa Far East/Orient Southeast Asia Trans-Atlantic Trans-Pacific Russia Europe East Coast Cruises India Cruises Israel/Egypt New England/Canada Red Sea/Suez Canal West Coast World Cruises Baltic/Russia Luxury Cruise Lines Crystal Cruises Radisson Seven Seas Windstar Cruises Clipper Cruises Silversea Cruises Oceania Cruises Am West Steamboat Princess Cruises European River Norwegian Cruise ResidenSea Holland America Line Sea Dream Yacht Club American Safari Travel Dynamics Seabourn Cruise Orient Express Royal Caribbean Orient Lines Star Clippers Cunard Line Costa Cruises Cruise West Celebrity Cruises National Geographic Hebridean Cruises MSC Cruises Lindblad Expeditions Peter Deilmann Viking River Cruises Swan Hellenic Delta Queen River Zegrahm Expeditions Disney Cruises Tauck Discovery French Waterways The Moorings Int'l Expeditions Carnival Cruise Great American River Journeys About Travel Wizard Advertising Info Privacy Contact Us Home We accept credit cards: During this time of price volatility in the travel, tour and cruise industry, please be advised the Europe River Cruise pricing can fluctuate within the same day. All of our promotions are subject to change without notice. As a result, Europe River Cruise prices will not be guaranteed until booked. State of California seller of travel License # 2061139-40 We are on the Better Business Bureau Honor Roll. Travel Agent Opportunities Contact Information Advertise with Travel Wizard 1998 TravelWizard.Com, Europe River Cruise Vacation Dept. All rights reserved.

Disney Vacation

Florida Vacation Guide - Florida for Visitors Travel Planner - Florida Travel You are here: About > Travel > Florida for Visitors Travel Florida for Visitors Essentials Events Calendar Photo Album Spring Break Guide Travel Planners What's Up this Month Articles & Resources A to Z Index Maps Beaches / Coasts Disneyworld Things to Do in FLA Daytona / East Coast Florida Keys Florida Panhandle Miami / South Florida Orlando / Central Florida Tampa / West Coast Discounts & Coupons Photos / Cams All About Florida Buyer's Guide Florida 2006 Calendars Florida Collegiate Fan Gifts Florida State Seminole Fan Gifts Tampa Bay Buccaneer Fan Gifts Top Disney Gifts Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Florida for Visitors newsletter! See Online Courses Search Florida for Visitors From Dawn Henthorn , Your Guide to Florida for Visitors . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! Best of Florida, 2005 While taking a look back at 2005, I've discovered some really good reasons to visit Florida. Besides the obvious — plenty of sunshine, beautiful beaches, spectacular sunsets, wonderful resorts, popular attractions and water everywhere — there are a few places that stand out as outstanding vacation choices. Wednesday December 28, 2005 | permalink Glide Into New Year One of the most fun tours I have ever taken was aboard a Segway HT. It was such an awesome experience to glide along St. Petersburg's beautiful waterfront and learn to maneuver the futuristic Segway Human Transporter. Previously located at The Pier , Gyroglides has recently teamed with the St. Petersburg Museum of History to offer a wider variety of tour opportunities. I can't think of a better way to start the new year than riding the future! Tuesday December 27, 2005 | permalink New Year's Eve Celebrations 10... 9... 8... 7... 6... 5... 4... 3... 2... 1... Happy New Year! Well, not quite, but it is time to make those New Year plans if you haven't already. If you'll be in Florida to ring in 2006, you'll want to try one of these celebrations: Florida New Year Celebrations New Year's Eve at Disney Monday December 26, 2005 | permalink Holiday Wishes Whether you are away on vacation, visiting relatives or home for the holidays; and , no matter what you celebrate — Christmas or Hanukkah — best wishes for a holiday full of memory-making moments. ~Dawn Sunday December 25, 2005 | permalink 'Twas the Night Before Christmas In Florida My apologies to Clement C. Moore. He's the guy that penned A Visit from St. Nicholas — more popularly known as The Night Before Christmas . In celebration of the holiday season, and just for fun, here are some paradies I found on the Internet that pay a homage to Florida... and the popularity of Moore's poem: 'Twas a Florida Christmas 'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the town, No noses were frozen, no snow fluttered down... 'Twas the Night Before Hurricane Wilma Twas the night before Wilma, when all through the state Not a gas pump was pumping, Not a store open late... 'Twas the Night Before Christmas on the Internet 'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the Net, There were hacker's a surfing. Nerds? Yeah, you bet... Merry Christmas to all... and to all a good night! Saturday December 24, 2005 | permalink Holiday Traditions One of our holiday traditions is to put together a jigsaw puzzle. We usually buy a 1,000-piece one with a holiday theme and set it up on a card table the week before Christmas. Just about any time of day the week before and after Christmas you will find one of us working on it. It is a nice diversion to all the hustle and bustle of the season and a nice way to gather the family together each evening. I enjoy working online jigsaw puzzles too, so I've put a few together that are certain to keep you entertained throughout the holidays. Florida Photo Jigsaw Puzzles Friday December 23, 2005 | permalink Going to Grandma's House? 'Tis the season for goin' to Grandma's house, and that may mean a road trip. We might sing "over the river and through the woods," but we are most likely to get to Grandma's house these days via a crowded interstate highway or an even more crowded airplane. AAA estimates that "more than 63 million of us will hit the skies, seas, and highways for the holiday. Approximately 51.54 million travelers (81 percent of all holiday travelers) expect to go by motor vehicle and of those, the greatest number of Christmas-New Years auto travelers will originate in the Southeast with 13.34 million. In a good news-bad news scenario, gasoline prices have been making a hasty retreat and are now averaging only $2.18 a gallon nationwide, down nearly 90 cents from the records set over Labor Day weekend, but still 31 cents higher than a year ago. If you want to check out the cheapest gas, both GasBuddy.com and GasPriceWatch.com depend on motorist to report gas prices, so you can find the cheapest gas in your neighborhood or wherever your travel takes you. If you're driving, check out my Florida Driving Guide where you'll find laws, rules of the road, gas saving tips and more! If you're flying, check out my Florida Air Travel Guide . Florida Maps Driving Distance Chart Whatever you do or wherever you go this holiday weekend, drive safely and sanely... and arrive alive! Tuesday December 20, 2005 | permalink Christmas Lights Shining Bright... in your community! It isn't just the attractions that are decked out for the holidays. One of my favorite things to do (after everything else gets done) is to drive around and enjoy the lights displayed right in my own community. If you need a few suggestions, here are the ones that have made the news this year in Florida: In South Florida The Palm Beach Post is your guide to the best neighborhood displays of this holiday season. The Miami Herald reports that Davie's Town Hall is decked out in lights and more for the season. More Broward Showstoppers compliments of the Miami Herald . The Sun Herald asks, " Have you seen the lights " in these Southwestern Florida neighborhoods? In Central Florida Lights of Pinellas lists countywide events and light displays in St. Petersburg and all the beaches. The Ledger lists holiday lights in Lakeland, Winter Haven and Auburndale recommended by readers . Holiday lights brighten the Tampa Bay area from Hyde Park to Brandon and St. Petersburg/Clearwater to New Port Richey. In North Florida WCJB in Gainesville has only one suggestion — check out this house . And, finally... remember those attractions we talked about? Holiday lights really do brighten attactions . Monday December 19, 2005 | permalink Scenic Christmas Cruises For more than 30 years, cruising the canals of Punta Gorda has been a Christmas tradition for many families. The city's residents do a fantastic job decorating their backyards, seawalls, boats and docks with holiday lights and decorations and boats of all shapes and sizes cruise the canals during the evenings of December to enjoy the warm community spirit. Nightly now through December 31, King Fisher Fleet will offer Christmas Canal Cruises three times each evening — 6:00, 7:30 & 9:00 p.m. These one-hour cruises sell out quickly, so advance reservations are a must! Sunday December 18, 2005 | permalink Busch Gardens and SeaWorld Raise Ticket Prices Your wallet will need to be a little fatter the next time you visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay or SeaWorld Orlando. The two parks will raise their gate admissions by $2.00 and $2.20 effective the first of the year. Busch Gardens tickets will rise from $55.95 to $57.95 for adults and $45.95 to $47.95 for children ages 3-9. SeaWorld one-day tickets will rise from $59.75 to $61.95 for adults. In an effort to make this bitter pill go down a little easier, the parks are offering a sweet deal — visitors may exchange their tickets for a pass allowing unlimited visits the next six consecutive days to the same park. Also, the parks are bringing back the Fun Card which allows Florida residents admission throughout the entire year for the price of a single-day admission. And, until December 25, grown-up Florida residents can " Be A Kid Again " with admission for only the price of a child's ticket. SeaWorld's sister park, Discovery Cove has also announced a price hike — from $259 to $279 a day with the new deal including snacks, beverage, breakfast and lunch. Other major theme parks have not announced changes in their admission prices for 2006. The last rate increase by Disney World and Universal Studios was effective January, 2005. Saturday December 17, 2005 | permalink Display Latest Headlines | | | Read Archives powered by Movable Type Advertisement Most Popular Florida Celebrates New Year Nude & Clothing-Optional Guide WDW Ticket Information Casino Cruises Ice Skating in Florida What's Hot Lion Country Safari Wide World of Sports Free Deals Ybor City Florida Day Trips Related Topics Theme Parks Travel with Kids Hotels / Resorts / Inns Budget Travel Senior Travel Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2005 About, Inc., A part of the New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Around About New Video iPod - Review POLL: Must-Have Gadgets VIDEO: Portable Gaming VIDEO: Choosing a TV Hugh Hefner's Life What's Hot Lion Country Safari Wide World of Sports Free Deals Ybor City Florida Day Trips Headlines Best of Florida, 2005 While taking a look back at 2005, I've discovered some... Glide Into New Year One of the most fun tours I have ever taken... New Year's Eve Celebrations 10... 9... 8... 7... 6... 5... 4... 3... 2... 1...... Holiday Wishes Whether you are away on vacation, visiting relatives or home...

Spain Travel Information -

Europe Travel - A European Vacation Travel Guide You are here: About > Travel > Europe for Visitors Travel Go Europe Essentials European Vacation Planning Map Europe Travel 101 - Before you Go European Distances The Best of Europe European Photo Gallery Articles & Resources Europe Travel Planning What to do In Europe Lodging - Hotels and More European Travel Maps Sex and Nudism Travel Photography Transportation Benelux Countries France Germany Austria Switzerland Greece Italy and Malta Travel Info Scandinavian Travel Spain and Portugal United Kingdom and Ireland Buyer's Guide Before You Buy Top Picks Italy Travel Guidebooks Europe Travel Guidebooks German Travel Guidebooks Product Reviews Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Europe for Visitors newsletter! See Online Courses Search Europe for Visitors From James Martin , Your Guide to Europe for Visitors . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! Antwerp Pictures Antwerp is a fashion and diamond center for Belgium and the world, it has one of the most beautiful train stations in Europe, and it was home to artist Peter Paul Rubens in the 17th century. What's not to like about this Belgian port city? See what it's all about in our latest photo Gallery: Antwerp Pictures . More Antwerp Travel: Antwerp Travel Directory | Antwerp Lodging | Antwerp Museums Wednesday December 28, 2005 | permalink Like to Travel Well? Follow the CIA! I really should have paid attention when the CIA came recruiting at my college. Operatives really get to live it up when they travel, apparently. Imagine, the lucky seven of the "Surveillance Team" sent out to case the joint before kidnapping 39-year-old Muslim preacher Osama Moustafa Hassan Nasr, also known as Abu Omar, managed to spend "$39,995, not counting meals, parking and other services" for a week at Milan's Principe di Savoia ( check prices ), where a room goes for a mere $588 a night, according to Newsday . Once Abu Omar was behind bars in Cairo the CIA folks broke up and went their various ways, some to the renowned Grand Hotel Baglioni ( check prices ) in Florence , a few in cozy pairs to save the taxpayers money, no doubt. Travel Resources: Milan Profile | Florence Profile Tuesday December 27, 2005 | permalink Tapas from Cans? Ok, so you wander into one of Barcelona's most celebrated tapas bars thinking, "wow, I'm gonna down me some fine, fresh seafood this evening--non of that canned stuff like we get at home..." Well, Quimet and Quimet is one of Barcelona's best tapas bars, recommended by just about anyone. Joaquim Perez, owner of Quimet and Quimet, has been called Barcelona's culinary king of canned food. That's right, a tapas king devoted to high-quality goods preserved in metal. I had heard about the increasing interest in vintage sardines , whose flavors are said to increase in intensity and complexity with aging. But Mr. Perez has extended this idea of unlikely gourmet tinkering; he buys "fresh" Galician navajas (clams) from the cannery and sets them to aging for a year or two before serving them (plain) to his customers. And they love 'em. Maybe you should go and see what this canned gourmet thing is all about. There are worse places to spend time on a research expedition. More: Gastronomic Route: Barcelona, a tapas town? Travel Resources: Barcelona Guide | Barcelona Pictures Thursday December 22, 2005 | permalink North Holland: Noah's Ark Redux A pious north Holland businessman took out a 300 000 loan and turned his investment into a "faithful reconstruction of Noah's Ark in scaled down form on the basis of biblical texts," according to the Mail & Guardian . Spring is the expected launch date. No word on where the animals will come from. Travel Resources: North Holland Travel | Holland Map | Benelux Rail Passes Thursday December 22, 2005 | permalink Appreciate Long John Shivers? Head for the Alps I know I frequently extol the virtues of off season travel, but there's a whole bunch of adventurers willing to go the extra mile in their long johns to enjoy icier surroundings than I'd care to experience. Those would be the Ice Hotel People. Word from Vagablond is that "a new ice hotel is being constructed 7,000 feet up into the German Alps." HotelChatter says this ice hotel might well be part of the Iglu-Dorf chain, who specialize in things like Inuit igloos in Switzerland. Like it cold? Get you thrills in the Alps this winter. I'll toast your bravado at the hearth with a steaming hot toddy. Travel Resources: Germany map and Travel Essentials | Switzerland Map and Travel Essentials . Tuesday December 20, 2005 | permalink Europe Travel in the Off Season Why travel in the off season? Well, you know the reasons: fewer tourists, lower prices, and cooler temperatures, to name a few. But there's another reason for me, and that's the warm, slanting light that brings photos alive. See what I mean by taking a gander at: Liguria Pictures - Picture Gallery of Liguria in Autumn . And if you still want to see more pictures of Italy , try out Italy for Visitors Florence Pictures , taken in November. Travel Resources: Off Season Travel Tips | Italy Travel Map Sunday December 18, 2005 | permalink Travel Gifts Ok, you're thinkin' it's too late to post some ideas for gifts at this late date. Hey, you can chalk it up to sloth and indolence, but I don't start burdening my mind with thoughts about winter holidays in May like the rest of my family. The crunch starts now. So I've made up a list of recommended Travel Gifts . Of course, you could buy some of the stuff for yourself as well. Take a look. You've got language help, a deep, inside look at the Vatican, and more, not to mention that Tyrolean Boiled Wool Jacket like you've always wanted. More Stuff You Need: Top Travel Photography Gear Friday December 16, 2005 | permalink Joe Torre carries the Olympic Torch in Florence New York Yankee manager Joe Torre carried the Olympic torch 400 yards to the foot of the Ponte Vecchio in Florence yesterday as part of "American day" in the two-month Olympic torch relay. It was the first time he'd been to Italy in 20 years, despite the fact that his mother was born in the village of Patina near Naples. (Source: Indystar.com ) The torch Joe carried was designed by the folks at Pininfarina , who've banged out quite a few sexy Italian auto bodies in their time. The Olympic torch is designed to work in rain, snow and wind up to 74.56 miles per hour, not to mention temperatures from -4°F to +77°F. According to what I've heard, the torch suffered much less than Mr. Torre during the run. Travel Resources: Florence Travel Directory | Florence Pictures: Views from the Arno | Naples Travel Directory Photo above: Ponte Vecchio, Florence by Martha Bakerjian, Italy for Visitors ; click "read more" to see it larger. Read more... Thursday December 15, 2005 | permalink Sunny Valencia It's cold here in my corner of California, prime time to think of warmer climes. Valencia pops to mind. Host to the 2007 America's cup, the sunny Spanish port city has been spiffing itself up lately, and many travelers have remarked that Valencia seems to be passing Barcelona as Spain's city of tourist choice. What's not to like? The spring La Fallas festival is a not to be missed attraction (plan now if you're going), the City of Arts and Sciences holds 87 acres of fascinating art, science and architecture, and the Barrio del Carmen is chock full of music, restaurants and clubs. Find out more about Valence by taking a peek at our latest: Valencia Spain Travel Information - Valencia Profile , or peruse our Valencia Travel Directory . Wednesday December 14, 2005 | permalink Hey Santa! Take That! Scroogy Musings: So a couple guys in Germany get asked what they want for Christmas by Santa, who happens to be waiting for a train home. They've been out shopping all day, unsuccessfully one assumes, because the next thing you know they've latched on to Santa's sack and "beat him over the head with it, breaking his fingers as he tried to protect himself." ( Santa - Germany's new stress buster ) Santa on a train? in Germany? A bit early, isn't it? Has the Christmas spirit been so commercialized that the little people like us suffer with the stress of plunking down good cash for stuff we think people might like but probably won't? Where is the joy of it all? Everyone remembers the magical experience of visiting Santa in the mall when they were kids and the smile it brought to your face. Unfortunately over the last few years it seems the spirit of Christmas is slowly being lost due to many different reasons including political correctness, busier lifestyles and many more issues. Hold on a sec. Now I'm angrier than a red-nosed reindeer. Everyone doesn't remember. Some of us are way too old to conjure the disgraceful vision of mall Santas in their mothball costumes and fake beards. The statement above comes from Live From Lapland (dot com). For a bit less than 15 dollars they'll make a custom video staring Santa, who'll be talking to your kids using the words you put in his mouth via the web site's control panel. Their Santa evidently lives in a paneled room and wears mall Santa clothes and beardage. It's in the sample flick. He could be in Kansas. Still, where else you gonna get a five minute flick to your specs for $14.95? Travel Resources: Lapland (the real one) | Chrismas in Europe Tuesday December 13, 2005 | permalink Display Latest Headlines | | | Read Archives powered by Movable Type Advertisement Most Popular Europe Map - Distances Between Cities in Western Europe Europe's Best Nudist Beaches Europe Picture Galleries Italy Pictures Europe Travel 101 - Before You Travel to Europe for the Firs... 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Tapas from Cans? Ok, so you wander into one of Barcelona's most celebrated... North Holland: Noah's Ark Redux A pious north Holland businessman took out a 300 000...