Taiwan Travel Stories Taiwan

Taiwan Travel Stories Archives: BootsnAll Travel Network Visit other BootsnAll sites: BootBlog | Bali | London | Australia | Written Road | Travel News Daily Home | Ask an Insider | Members Forum Plane Tickets | Youth Hostels | RTW Guide About Us | Advertising | Contact | RSS | Staff First Time Visitor? Home » Taiwan » Taiwan Travel Stories Taiwan Travel Stories In Taiwan Basic Physics Does Not Apply - Taipei, Taiwan In Taiwan, Vivien Lai knows there are no driving rules, it's all about how fast you can get to the finish. The Spirits of Lanyu - Taiwan As the only tourist, Denni Schnapp discovers the quiet island of Lanyu...and its nuclear waste dump. The Streets of Taipei - Taipei, Taiwan Putrid tofu, fireworks and vendors are just a few of the things Micki Kosman dodges on Taipei's busy streets. Crossing the Street - Formosa, Taiwan Crossing the Street Formosa, Taiwan The seafood and noodle soup, my first meal in the country, looked revolting. I wondered if I had made a mistake coming to Taiwan. Officially it was the Festival of the Moon, but Taiwan was... Motorcycles and Madness in Taiwan - Taiwan John Matthews travelled up the coast of Taiwan on a motorcyle and camping by the roadside. The view was nice, but the traffic was awful. Home » Taiwan » Taiwan Travel Stories Book It! RTW Air Tickets (round-the-world) Plane Tickets (round-trip and one-way) Search for Hotels Rental Cars Youth Hostels Eurail Passes Travel Insurance Adventure Travel & Tours Travel Bookstore TEFL Courses Airport Parking GSM Phone Rental Travel Visas Newsletter Sign up for any or all of BootsnAll's newsletters. Why should you sign-up? Newsletter Sign-Up (enter your e-mail) Research It! Africa Asia Australia & NZ Europe Middle East Round-the-World North America Central America South America Caribbean Pacific Islands Antarctica BootsnAll Travel Blogs Travelers Toolkit Travel Bookstore Give and Take Become a BootsnAll member Travel message boards Ask an Insider Write for BootsnAll Code of Conduct Member travel blogs Search BootsnAll Home | Email BootsnAll | Become a Member | Top of page Travel Guides, Stories, Information, and Newsletters Africa Travel | Asia Travel | Pacific Travel | Europe Travel | North America Travel | Central America Travel | South America Travel | Middle East Travel Odds'n'Ends | Travel Book Reviews | Insiders | Travel Blogs | Travel Newsletters Around the World Travel Around the World Tickets | Around the World Travel Guide | Cheap International Plane Tickets | Around the World Travel Tips Airport Parking Reservations Philadelphia Airport Parking | Newark Airport Parking | Oakland Airport Parking | San Diego Airport Parking | Phoenix Airport Parking BootsnAll World Adventure Travel Tanzania Safari | Viet Nam Tours | Thailand Tour | China Tours | New Zealand Adventure | Australia Tours Youth Hostels Europe Hostels | New York Hostels | Paris Hostels | London Hostels | Amsterdam Hostels Eurail Eurail Passes | Britrail Passes | Eurail Travel | Eurail Tips Book Tickets, Hostels, Hotels and more anywhere in the world Search for Hotels | Traveler's Toolkit | Plane Tickets | Rent Cars | Search Youth Hostels | Travel Insurance | Learn Languages | Backpacker Tours | Cheap Tickets | Cruise and Vacation Packages | Cheap Hotels | Cheap Vacation Rentals | World Music Downloads | Travel Bookstore BootsnAll Travel Community websites, blogs and About the Company Press Kit | Advertise with us | Internships | TripPlanner Affiliate Partners | Link to Us | Join Us! | Privacy policy | BootBlog | Bali Travel | Australia Travel | BootsnAll TravelBlogs | Travel Writer's Resource | Travel Gear Blog | Eurail Blog | London Blog | BootsnAll Travel: Australia | UK and Europe Travel | Travel News Daily | World Travel Watch BootsnAll in Other Languages Chercher des Auberges De Jeunesse | Ricercare gli Ostelli di Gioventù | Busque para Albergues Juveniles de Juventud | Suchen Sie Jugendherbergen Suchen Sie Hotels --

Spain Travel

Spain Geography History Politics Culture Transportation Lodging Restaurants Museums and Monuments Nightlife Currency 1. Geography Spain lies in the extreme southwest of Europe, between latitude 36* and 44* north and betweenlongitude 9* west and 5* east. It is bounded by France and the tiny state of Andorra on the west and northwest by Portugal and on the south by the British territory of Gibralter, which is claimed by Spain. The Atlantic ocean is to Spain's north (Bay of Biscay), northwest and southwest (Gulf of Cadiz) to the west of the Straits of Gibralter, only 14 km/9 miles wide, which separate Europe from Africa. The entire eastern and southeastern Spain is bounded by the Mediterranean. Also, part of Spain are the BalearicIslands (Majorca, Minorca, Ibiza, Formentera and various smaller islands), which lie off the Mediterraneancoast and the Canary Islands (the largest of which are Gran Canaria and Tenerife) off the northwest coast of Africa. The towns of Ceuta and Melilla on the North African mainland and the three small islands ofPenonde Velez, Alhucemas and Chafarinas off the Moroccan coast also belong to Spain (but are claimed by Morocco). The Straits of Gibralter link Spain with Africa. In addition, the Pyrenees in the north have been both geographically and historically, a barrier between Spain and the rest of Europe. Spain lies predominately within the zone of the Mediterranean climate which is characterized by hot,dry summers and mild, wet winters. When to Visit Spain The best time of year to come is in the Spring and Autumn from about mid-March to the beginning of June and from the beginning of September to the beginning of November (in Northern Spain to the beginningof October). 2. History SPAIN AS A WORLD POWER TO THE PENINSULAR WAR (1516-1813): Spain rises to international importance in the 16th century in expansion of its territory in Europeand colonies and is the Center of Counter Reformation. 1618-1648: Spain takes part in the Thirty Years' War on the side of the Austrian Habsburgs. 1640: Portugal dissolves its union with Spain. FROM THE FIRST WORLD WAR TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE SECOND REPUBLIC (1914-1931): 1914-1919: Spain remains neutral in the First World War. 1926: Spain leaves the League of Nations. 1928: Spain is readmitted into the League of Nations. 1931: After a Republican victory in local government elections, Alfonso XIII leaves the country. It's the beginning of the Second Republic. FROM THE SECOND REPUBLIC TO APPLIED ASSOCIATION WITH THE UN (1931-1962): Because various European democracies would not help the new Spanish Republic, not even the SovietUnion believed that Spain was ready for a social revolution. The Republican forces are defeated by the Fascist dictatorship of General Franco with the support from Hitler and Mussolini. After the Second World War, the Franco regime is unable to lead Spain out of its political and economic isolation. Only after Franco's death does liberalization and democratization appear in the country. 1931: Spain receives a new constitution: liberal and progressive in its provisions, separationof church and state, a unified state, regional self-government for Catalonia (1932) and the Basque country(1936) and a limited degree of land reform. 1936-1939: The Spanish Civil War breaks out after the murder of a Monarchist member of Parliament, Calvo Sotelo on July 13 and a military rising on July 17 led by General Francisco y Bahamonde (1892-1975) in Spanish Morocco. 1939: Recognition of Franco's Regime by France, Britain (February 27) and US (April 1). CivilWar comes to an end. Spain leaves the League of Nations. From 1945: Spain is politically and economically isolated as a result of Franco'sauthoritarian regime. It is not a founding member of the United Nations and receives no aid under the MarshallPlan. 1955: Spain becomes a member of the UN. 1959-1960: Spain becomes a member of the OEEC and OECD. 1962: Spain applies for association with the European Community. DEMOCRATIC SPAIN (from 1975-1992): After Franco's death, King Juan Carlos I begins the process of democratization, which continues inspite of attempted coups. Spain becomes a full member of the democratic community of states. 1978: Spain joins the Council of Europe on February 24. 1980: A law of freedom of religion comes into force: Catholicism is no longer the State religion. 1982: Spain becomes the 16th member of NATO on May 30. 1986: Spain joins the European Community on January 1. 1989: Spain takes over the presidency of the European Community. 1992: On July 25, the Summer Olympic Games of modern times are opened in Barcelona. 3. Politics The Constitution: The constitution which came into force in December 1978 makes Spain a parliamentary monarchy committed to the principles of a democratic social state founded on law. The King as head of State has the duties of watching over the government and representing Spain in its relations with other nations. Moreover, he is the supreme commander of the armed forces. The constitution contains a code of basicrights, the establishment of the social state, the assurance of security under the law, the recognition of the role of the parties in developing an informed political opinion, the right to refuse military service, the abolition of the death penalty (except under military law) and the end of Roman Catholicism as the statereligion. Coat of Arms: The flag of Spain is red and yellow, which has been the Spanish colors since medieval times. The coat of arms consists of a shield of four quarters bearing the emblems of Castile, Leon, Aragon, Navarre and Granada. The shield is flanked by the "Pillars of Hercules," which in ancient tradition market the end of the world and are usually identified as the Straits of Gibralter. Along with the motto, "Plus ultra" on an encircling ribbon, they symbolize the history of Spain as a world and maritime power. Parliament: The Spanish Parliament is the Cortes Generales, with two houses, the Congress de los Diputados (Congress of Deputies) and the Senate. The Congress is elected every four years and has a minimum of 300 members anda maximum of 400 members. The electoral system is a melange of direct election and proportional representaion. The deputies elect the prime minister, who is then appointed by the King. A special feature of the parliamentary system is that the prime minister can be voted out of office by the Congress only ifthey elect a successor at the same time. The Senate prepresents the Autonomous Communities (regions), which consist of one or moreprovinces. Each province elects four senators and in addition the parliaments of the autonomouscommunitites elect one senator each, plus additional senators for each million inhabitants. The Senate hasa right to veto on the government. International Relations: Spain has been a member of the UN since 1955, of NATO since 1982 and the European Communitysince 1986. She also maintains close relations with many Latin American states and is a permamentmember of the Organization of American States (OAS)(34). 4. Culture Language: Spanish. It may be usefult to have some acquaintance with the language or know at least a few useful expressions to make your trip a little easier. A Few Important Expressions: Good morning: Buenos Dias Good bye: Adios Yes/No: Si/No Please: Por favor Thank you (very much): (Muchas) gracias Your Welcome: De nada Excuse me: Perdon Do you speak English?: Habla Usted ingles? A little, not much: Un poco I do not understand: No entiendo What is Spanish for. . .?: Como se dici en espanol. . .? To the right/left: A la derecha, izquierda. Straight ahead: Siempre derecho. Business Hours: Banks are open Monday through Friday from 9:30 am to 2:00 pm and Saturday from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm. Most offices are open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm or 5:30 pm. Restaurants are open from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm and at dinner time, they reopen at 9:00 pm and stays open to about11:30 pm or midnight. Major stores are open from Monday to Saturday from 9:30 am to 8:00 pm. Smaller stores take a siesta. They are normally open from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm and then reopen at 4:40 pm to 8:00 pm. However,be aware that these hours may vary from store to store. Electricity : Most establishments have 220 volts AC. Some older places however have 110 or 125 volts. Make sureto carry an adapter with you. It's best to carry battery operated equipment. Liquor Laws : The legal drinking age in Spain is 18. Bars, taverns and cafeterias usually open at 8:00 am and many serve alcohol until 1:30 or later. Generally, you can purchase alcohol in any market. Mail: Airmail letters to the U.S. and Canada will cost you 87 pesetas (70 cents) up to15 grams. Tipping: A service charge is included in most restaurant bills. It's usually around 15%. You might want to adda few pesetas to the bill however. 5. Transportation Travellers need a legal passport or visa to enter and leave Spain. A passport will allow a visitor tostay for 90 days if you are a US, Canadian or New Zealand citizen. Australians and South Africans mustobtain a visa to enter Spain. Airports: Airports in Madrid, Barcelona and Malaga handle most international flights. Rental Cars: Rental cars cost a lot less in Spain than other European countries. Be aware however that you mustbe over 21 and have had your drivers license for at least one year to rent a car. MADRID: Bus: The busses in Madrid are quite clean. It costs 130 pesetas per ride. However, if you plan on takingthe bus a lot during your stay, you might be interested in purchasing a 10 ride ticket (billete de diez) for645 pesetas. BARCELONA: Metro: A ride on the metro will cost around 680 pesetas and a ten ride pass will cost around 700pesetas. The metro is open Monday to Thursday from 5:00 am to 11:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from5:00 am to 1:am, Sunday from 6:00 am to 12:00 am. Bus: A ride on the bus will also cost 680 pesetas and a ten rid pass will cost around 700 pesetas. Dailybuses and night buses service the city from 11:00 pm until 4:00 am. 6. Lodging SEVILLE: Hostels: Sevilla Youth Hostel(HI): , C. Issac Peral, 2. (tel. 461 31 54) It is currently being renovated andwill beclosed until Semana Santa in 1997. Ask a tourist office when it will be reopened. Hostal Paris: , C. San Pedro Martir. (tel. 422 98 61 or 421 96 45, fax. 421 96 45). It's brand newand clean! There's a bath, air conditioning, phone and TV. It's extremely comfortable and at extremelycomfortable prices too! Singles are 3500 pesetas, doubles are 5000 pesetas. Ask about student discounts. Camping: Camping Sevilla, Ctra. Madrid-Ca diz, km 534. (tel. 451 43 79). It's close to the airport and just 12 km away from town. From Estacion Prado de San Sebastian, take bus #70 which stops at Parque Alcosa. Here, you'll find showers, a supermarket and a swimming pool. It's 450 pesetas per person, percar and per tent. Children are only 350 pesetas. BARCELONA: If you arrive in Barelona without a hotel reservation, there are offices at the airporst and at Estacio-Sants(daily from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm) that will book a place for you to stay for a fee of approximately 100pesetas. The only glich is that you won't have the opportunity to see the room beforehand. For furtherinformation, contact the Barcelona Hotels Association, Via Laietana 47; (tel. 301-62-40). Be aware however, that Barcelona is packed with tourists between the months of July and August soit's wise to book a room ahead of time. It's important to make sure that you see your room before paying for it. Hostels: Continental , Barri Gotic (tel. 93/301-2570, fax. 93/302-7360) There are 35 rooms at the hostel.American Express, Discover Card, Master Card and Visa are all accepted. There are canopied balconiesand the rooms feel like the comforts of home. Convenient location and in the villa (old quarter).Although thereare lots of police patrolling the area, make sure that you hold onto your possessions. Great breakfast buffet. Hostal Terrassa, Junta de Comerc 11. Metro: Liceu. (tel. 302 51 74, fax. 301 21 88). Pricesrun: singles at 1750 pesetas, doubles n/a and triples are 4000 pesetas.Showers are 500 pesetas.Call ahead of time to reserve a room. Hotels for Disabled Travelers: While there are accomodations available for disabled travelers, the hotels tend to be on the moreexpensive side. Here are a couple of places to try: (1) Hotel Balmoral, Via Augusta 5. (tel. 217-87 00, fax. 415 14 21). (2) Hotel Gran Via, Gran Via de les Corts Catalones. (tel. 642 318 19 00, fax. 318 99 97).It's a 19th century mansion and all rooms are with a bath. There's a breakfast room and parking for a fee.American Express, Discover Card, Master Card and Visa are all accepted. Hotels: (1)Meson Castilla Barcelona. (tel. 93/318 21 82). It's in the heart of Barcelona, reasonably priced,well managed with comfortable rooms with large terraces. Breakfast is the only meal that is served.However, checkout the nearby taverns where there is excellent food. (2)Valldoneeella, 508002 (fax. 93/412 40 20). Here you can find 56 rooms with air conditioning. It costs9,500 pesetas ($76) for a double room and parking is 1,500 pesetas ($12). MADRID: Hotels: Pension Luz, C. Fuentes, 10 3rd floor. (tel. 542 07 59). Metro: Sol. There are communalbathrooms and no elevators. However, it's a very nice building with sunny rooms. Singles are 2000pesetas, doubles are 3500 pesetas and doubles which have been converted into triples are 4200 pesetas. Hostels: Valencia , Gran Bia 44 (5th floor) 28013. Metro: Callao or Gran Via. (tel. 91/522 11 15). Thereare 30 rooms all with bath. It's a favorite for North American travellers. Single rooms run for 3,900 pesetas($30), doubles 5,700 pesetas ($43.85) and triples are 7,000 pesetas ($53.85). Master Card and Visa are both accepted. A phone call at the hostel will run you about 3,900 pesetas. Also, there's an elevator foryour convenience!!! Riosol , Calle Mayor 5 (2nd floor) 28013. Metro: Sol. (tel. /91 532 31 42). There are 12 rooms witha shower or tub. A single with a shower will run you approximately 2.800 pesetas ($21.55), a single witha tub is 3,300 pesetas ($25.40), 4,000 pesetas (30.75) for a double with a shower and 4,400 pesetas ($33.85) for a double with a tub. Credit cards are not accepted. Riosol has 2 floors with clean renovated rooms. Although the tubs are small, they're in the room! Prices are also actually lower than posted so inquire within. Albergue Juvenil Santa Cruz de Marcenado (HI) , Santa Cruz de Marcenada 28, 28015. Metro:Arguelles. (tel. 91/547 45 32, fax. 548 11 96).). There are 72 beds here. It's 900 pesetas ($7.50) per person per night for members 26 and under and 1,200 pesetas ($10) for members over 26 years of age.Credit cards are not accepted. Make sure to make reservations in advance because they book up ratherquickly. They require an International Youth Hostel Card which will cost you about 1,800 pesetas ($15).Also, there's a 1:30 am curfew and lights must be out at 2:00 am..Reception is open daily from 9:00 am to10:30 pm. 7. Restaurants Mealtimes: The Spaniards eat lunch at about 2:00pm and in the evening around 10:00pm. In restaurants, lunch is served from 1:00pm to 3:30pm and dinner from 9:00pm to 11:00 or 11:30pm. Meals: Breakfast (desayuno) in Spain is rather simple and is usually taken in a bar. It consists of a cup of coffee and toast or a small cake, or, particularly in the south, churros, deep fried donuts. Hotels in the tourist resorts cater to foreign visitors so will most likely offer a more substanital breakfast or buffet. Lunch (almuerzo) and dinner (cena) are more substantial and the Spaniards like to linger over these meals. Both meals consist of 3 or 4 courses. The tourist menu (menu del dra) is usually a better value than eating a la carte. Spanish Cuisine: Spanish cooking uses an abundance of garlic and olive oil. Egg dishes, rice, seafood and stews arealso typical throughout the country. Restaurant Hours of Operation: Restaurants serve lunch between approximately 1:30pm and 3:30pm and dinner usually from 9:00pm to 11:00 or 11:30pm. For those who prefer something light in the evening, there are the tascas bars which serve a variety of appetizing foods with drinks. RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS IN MADRID: In Madrid, there is food on every block. Calles Echegaray, Ventura de la Vega and Manuel FernandezGonzalez are the cheapest areas to find food: (1) La Tarterie, C. Cardenal Cisneros, 24;Metro Biebao; (tel. 447 05 54). If you like art, this is the place to be! Come see some of the temporary exhibits and while you're at it, snack on some of their great quiche and salads. Prices run about 650 pesetas and pizza is 775-1000 pesetas. (2) Taberna D'a Quimada, C. Echegaray, 17; (tel. 429 32 63). A restaurant where you can actually seethe sights! Lots of knicknacks from all over Spain. Prices run about 975 pesetas and entrees run between800 to 1500 pesetas. (1) Nabucco, Hortaleza 108 (near Plaza Santa Barbara).Metro: Alonso Martinez Italian.(tel. 91/310 06 11. With spacious high ceilings, this place a fantastic Spanish atomsphere! Nabucco offerspasta and pizza (with paper thin crust) for about 640 pesetas to 910 pesetas ($4.90 to $7). Main courses will run you about 925 pesetas to 1,450 pesetas ($7.10-$11.15). American Express, Discover Card, Master Card and Visa are all accepted. It's open Sunday-Thursday from 1:30pm to 4:00 pm and 8:45 pm to 12:15 am and Friday to Saturday to 1:00 am. (2)Madrid 1, Carrera de San Jeronimo 16 (east of Puerta del Sol). Metro: Sol. (tel. 91/521 90 31).Platos combinados cost 550 pesetas to 800 pesetas ($4.60 to $6.65) and the menus del dia are 975 pesetasand 1,275 pesetas ($7.50 to $9.80). Master Card and Visa are accpeted. It's open daily from 8:30 am to 12:30 am. Come see this Spanish tapas bar with dining room. Sandwiches and burgers are also served.Definitely dependable for day and nightime dining. RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS IN BARCELONA: For the cheapest meals in Barcelona, look for 850-950 menus in the areas between La Rambla and Via Laietana. (1) Bar Restaurante Los Toreros, C. Xucla, 3-5; (tel. 318 23 25). Open Monday to Friday 8:00am to 1:00am and Sundays from 8:00am to 5:00pm, a meal will run you around 500 pesetas. Enjoy!!! (2)Agut, Gignas 16, (tel. (93) 315 17 09). It's simple, hearty Catalan home cooking. American Express,Visa and Master Card are all accepted. (3) Els Quatre Gats, C. Montsio, 3 bis; Metro Catalunya; (tel. 302 41 40). Enjoy the live music and the menu design which was created by Picasso. Hours of operation are from 9:00pm to 1:00am and Monday to Saturday 8:00am to 2:00am and Sunday 5:00pm to 2:00am. Entrees cost between 110 and 2600pesetas and when there is music, there is a cover charge. 8. Musuems and Monuments MADRID: Museo Lazaro Galdiano. Come see a collection of rare paintings ranging from the Flemish to works created by the Spanish masters of the golden age. Artists include: El Greco, Murillo and Zurbaran. Also,paintings from Goya's "Black Period" and from such English and Italian masters as Constable and Tiepolo. Museo del Prado, Paseo del Prado. Take bus 10, 14, 27, 34, 37, 45 or 46 or Metro: Atocha or Banco de Espana.(tel. 91/420 28 36).Admission is 500 pesetas (#.85) for adults, 250 pesetas ($1.90) for students and freefor senior citizens and children under 11 years old. It's also free for everyone on Saturdays from 2:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Open Sunday from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm, Tuesdays-Saturday from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, and Sunday from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Thyssen Bonemisza Museum. At this museum you can view 700 canvasses that are arrayed inchronological order. Works range from El Greco to Picasso. Palacio Real (Royal Palace); Calle de Bailen.Metro: Opera or take bus # 3,25,33,39 or M4.(tel. 91/ 542 00 59). Although it has not been occupied since the King in 1931, it is used for Stateoccasions. Built in the mid-eighteenth century, it has approximately 2000 rooms and is decorated by Flemish tapestries and ceiling frescos designed by Tiepolo. Admission is 950 pesetas ($7.50) for adultsand 350 pesetas ($2.70) for senior citizens and students. There is a mandatory guided tour. Plaza Mayor; While this used to be an area for executions and bullfights, you can now enjoy atatmosphere of lively cafes and music. Iglesia de San Isidro, Metro: Latina or Bus 17, 23, 35 or 60. A seventeenth century church which was designed by Pedro Sanchez and Francisco Beutisto. It served as the cathedral of Madrid from thelate nineteenth century until 1993 when a new cathedral, (Palaccio Real) was consecrated. Casa de Campo, Metro: Lago or Batan. It's the largest park, pool zoo and amusement park!!! Theadmission price is 345 pesetas and the hours of operation are from Monday to Friday, 11:00am to 2:30pm and 4:00pm to 9:00pm, Saturday and Sunday, 11:00am to 2:30pm and 3:30pm to 10:00pm. The amusement park is open Sunday through Friday from noon to 11:00pm and Saturday from noon to midnight. The Madrid zoo is only a five minute walk from the amusement park which is open daily form 10:00am to 9:30pm. Admission is 1440 pesetas. Festivals: Mid-September/Beginning of October: Autumn Festival. There are concerts and operatic, dramatic and ballet performance (classical and modern). Zoo Aquarium, Casa de Campo. Metro: Batan. Take bus # 33 from Plaz Isabel 11. (tel. 91/711 99 50).Admission is 1,570 pesetas ($12.70) for adults, 1.255 pesetas ($9.65) for children 4 to 7 years of age andfree for children under the age of 3 years. The ticket office is closed a half an hour earlier. Estrecho. Although it doesn't compare to the San Diego or Berlin Zoo, it's the best in Spain! There'sa dolphin sho at 1:00 and 5:00 pm that you won't want to miss. Special Tours: Madrid's Vision Bus Tour, It stops at 13 favorite museums, plazas and avenues. The tour lasts foran hour and a half and will cost 1,500 pesetas ($11.55). Departures are Tuesdays to Sundays from 10:00am to 6:15 pm. Convenient places to picj up the bus are Prado, Puerta del Sol or El Corte Ingles Department Store. SEVILLE: Palaces Alcazar, the oldest royal residence in Europe. It was built by Peter the Cruel in 1364, seventy-eight years after the Moors left Seville. Museo Provincial de Bellas Artes de Sevilla, located in the early seventeenth century, this Andalusian museum is famous for its works by such Spanish masters as Valdes, Leal, Zurbaran andMurillo and Dutch master Breushel. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00am to 3:00pm. Admission is 250pesetas. Cathedral de Sevilla; After Saint Peter's in Rome and Saint Paul's in London, this cathedral is the largest in Europe. Among some of its important feautres are the tomb of Columbus, the Patio de los Naranjos, the beautiful Flemish alterpiece, the Giralda Tower and the Capilla Real (Royal Chapel). BARCELONA: Museo Picasso; Carrer de Montcada 15-19; Metro: Jaume I.(tel.93/319-63-10).Admission is 750P ($5.75) for adults, 300P ($2.30) for senior citizens and students and free for children ages 11 and under. If you come the first Sunday of the month it's free. It's the place where you'll find many of Picasso's notebooks which contain several Barcelona sketches. Cathedral de Barcelona (La Seu), Placa de la Seu, Metro: Jaume 1. Take Bus 9,16, 17, 22 or 45.Admission to the Cathedral and cloister is free. However, the Museu de la Catedral costs 55P ($0.40).It's open daily from 7:45 pm to 1:30 pm, and 4:00pm to 7:45 pm. The museum is open daily from 11:00am to 1:00 pm. It was completed in 1450 and represents the spirit of Catal as an empire. Itis located inthe Gothic quarter and is one of the most beautiful museums in the country. Las Ramblas; Here, you'll find various street performances! Come and see the sketch artists,living statues, political activists, lovers and mimes.fun activities such as street performers dancing the flamenco, fortune tellers and plenty of merchants to buy gifts for friends and family. Monument a Colomb; Open June 1-September 24 from 9:00am to 8:30pm and September 25 to March 30 Monday to Friday from 10:00am to 2:00pm and 3:30 to 6:30pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am to 6:30 pm; April 1 to May 31 Monday to Friday from 10:00am to 2:00pm and 3:30 to 7:30pm. Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am to 7:00pm. The ticket offices close thirty minutes prior. The cost is27 pesetas. Las Golondrinas; Sails through Barcelona's harbor, past the Montjuic. Every thirty minutes andruns daily in June from 11:00am to 8:30pm and May and July through September from 11:00am to 8:30pm; April and October 11:00am to 6:00pm, November to March Saturday and Sunday from 11:00am to 6:pm.A roundtrip ticket costs 380 pesetas. Museu d'Art Modern; 20th century Catalan artists. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00am to7:00pm. Admission is 300 pesetas but is 200pesetas for students. Estadi Olimpicado Montjuic; home of the 1992 Olympic games. Open daily from 10:00am to 6:00pm. Admission is free! Fundacio Joan Miro; Av. Miramar 71-75, Parc de Montjuic (tel.93/329-19-08).Admission is 600P($4.60) for adults, 400P ($3.10) for students and free for children 13 and under. The museum is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 11:00 am-7:00 pm and Thursday from 11:00 am to 9:30pm and Sunday and Monday from 10:30 to 2:30 pm. Take bus #61 from Placa de Espanya. This greatplace is a tribute to Catalan lyrical surrealist Joan Miro. And, if you get hungry, there's a restaurant whichis not too expensive. from the top of the Montjuic Funicular, just turn right down to the museum. Museu d'Art Contemporani de Barcelona; Placa deis Angels 1. Metro: Catalunya or Universite.(tel. 93/412-08-10). Admission is 600P ($4.60) for adults, 400P ($3.10) for students and seniors. Themuseum is open Tuesdays and Fridays from noon to 8:00 pm, Saturdays from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm and Sundays from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Bullfighting -Critical remarks are increasingly being raised about this event. However, you won't beable to tell that if you're there. It's still one of Spain's favorite pasttimes. Held on Sundays between March and October. Check the paper for details. Ticketscan be purcahsed at Muntaner 24 (tel. (93) 453 38 21).There are two bullrings in the area: Arenes Monumental, Oran Via Carles I. This arena is a lot smaller and used rarely. There's also a bullfighting museum at the Monumental ring. It's open from March to October daily from10:00 am to 1:00 pm and 5:30 30pm to 7:00 pm. Ports and Beaches: Port Olimpic, a new complex with dozens of bars and a booming nightlife! Festivals: September/October: Festival Internatcional de Musica. There are solo recitals, choral and orchestralconcerts. Side Trips from Barcelona: Codorniu, (tel. (93) 891 01 25) This place offers the best tours and tastings. Call for hours. Trains rundaily to Sant Sadurni d'Anoia. A round trip fare costs about 600P ($4.60). Shopping: District Passeig de Gracia, Rambla de Catalunya and the Diagnal. Flea Market, Els Encants. It's at the end of Dos de Maig on the Placa Glories Catalones. Open Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. 9. Nightlife MADRID: Dance Clubs: Madrid is the place to be if you love to have fun! Many discos have "afternoon"sessions usually going from 7:00pm to 10:00pm with a cover of 250-1000 for teens. But, the crazy fun nightsessions last until dawn. It's very common to see a huge line of people waiting outside the discotecas at 5:30 in the morning still waiting to get in. If you're a woman, chances are you'll pay less than your male friends. Coverwill run around 500 pesetas and usually includes one drink. The hippest clubs are always changing so youmight want to consult the Guia de Ocio or ask around. Eslava, Calle de Arena 11. Metro: Sol or Opera. (tel. /91 366 37 33). The best nights are Friday andSaturday! It's open Monday-Friday from 11:30 pm to 5:00 am and Friday to Sunday from 7:00 pm to 6:00am. Cover is 1,500 pesetas ($11.55). Afterwards, why not check out La Chocolateria de San Gines5 ! Just take Metro Sol! Open since 1894, it makes the best hot chocolate and churros!!! Open Tuesday-Thursday from 7:00 to 10:00 pm and 1:00 to 7:00 am and Friday and Sunday from 7:00 pm to7:00 am. Live Music: Bars and Cafes: El Anciano, Metro Opera or Bus #3/ (tel. 19 559 53 32). Simple, great beer and wines and great tapas.It's a great place to come after visiting the Palacio Real.Open from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm and from 5:30 pm to 11:00 pm on Mondays, Tuesdays,Thursdays, and Sundays and from 5:30 to 12:30 am Friday and Saturday. It's closed in August. Cafe Circulo de Bellas Artes, C. Alcala 42. Metro: Banco de Espana. With ceiling frescos and a great marble style, come check it out! Cover is 100 pesetas. Taberna de Dolores , Plaza de Jesus 4. Metro: Sevilla. It's behind the Palace Hotel and north of Calle de las Huertas. (tel. /91 429 22 43). Open Sunday to Thursday from 11:00 am to 1:00 am and Friday and Saturday from 11:00 am to 2:00 am. Cafe Gijon, Po. Recoletas 21. Metro: Colon. Open daily from 9:00 am to 11:30 am, this terrace bar/restaurant is a great place to bump into famous writers! Coffee is 300 pesetas. Performing Arts: Tortes Bermejas, Mesonero Romanos II, Metro: Callao. (tel. 91/ 532-33-22). Doors usually open at 9:00 pm or 9:30 pm and the show starts at 10:45 pm and ends at 12:30 am. There are seven flamencodancers, 2 or 3 guitarists and 1 or 2 singers all in costume. BARCELONA: Live Music: Palau de la Musica Catalan, (symphonic and choral music), c. Francesc de Paula 2 (tel. 268 10 00).Ask about the free winter concerts on Tuesday nights and the October music festival. Tickets run between800 to 1500 pesetas. The box office is open from June to August, Monday to Friday from 5:00 to 8:00 pm,September to May, Monday to Friday from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, Saturday from 3:00 to 9:00 pm andSunday from one hour prior to the concert. Dance Clubs: The club scene goes in two shifts. There's the (1) post siesta shift (around 5-7pm) and the (2) secondshift which occurs after dinner between (9:00 to 11:00 pm. After the bars start emptying around 2:00 am,crowds come to the discos for another 4 or 5 hours of fun!!! If you like to party, Barcelona is definitely thecity to go crazy!!! The nightlife is amazing and it seems as if no one ever gets tired!!! Otto Zutz, C. Lincoln 15. Metro: FFFCCC Muntaner. It's one of the largest clubs in the city with 3 floorsof bars and dance floors. cover will run you about 2000 pesetas with one drink included. It's open Tuesdaythrough Saturday from midnight to 5:00 am. Poble Espanyol, (tel. 93- 424 93 09).This place offers everything from jazz to flamenco. It's a multifloorbar and disco with 12 restaurants, 15 bars, 3 bares-musicales and a large discoteca! On warm nights, check out the open air roof for a great view of the city. The party doesn't begin until 1:30 am and doesn'tstop until 9:00 am. Open Thursday through Saturday. Panini, Moll de Mestra. It's a pizzeria by day and a disco by night. Open Tuesday-Sunday at midnight. Bars: Ticktacktoe, Roger de Lluria 40 (tel. 93 318 99 47). Metro: Urquinaona. It's part bar/part restaruant/part billiard hall. It's open daily from 7:00 pm to 3:00 am. Nick Howanna, Rossello 208 (tel. (93) 215 65 91). Metro: Provenca or Diagonal. This is one of the first designer bars. It's open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 pm to 4:00 am and Sunday from 7:00 pmto 4:00 am. Heydey, Bruniquer 59 Metro: Joanie. It's a gay bar and there's no admission price. Open from 10:30pmto 5:00 am daily. Coctelerias and Champagne Bars: Gimlet, Rec 24 (tel. 93/310 10 27). Metro Jaume I. A great place to relax. Brut, Trompetas 3 in Picasso Museum Area. La Xampayeria, Provenca 236 on the corner of Enric Granadas. Xampanyet, C. Montcado 15. Open tuesday to Saturday from 12 noon to 4:00 pm and 6:30 pm to 11:30 pm and Sundays from 6:30 pm to 11:30 pm. Come here if you're feeling sophisitcated! Cafes: Cafe de l'Opera, Ramblas 74, opposite of Liceu. It's the ideal place for coffee or any drink at any time of day! Casinos: The Gran Casino de Barcelona, 42 km (26 miles) south of Sant Pere de Ribes. (tel. (93) 893 38 66).Jacket and tie are required. 10. Currency The unit of currency is the peseta (pta). There are coins for 1,5,10,25,50,100,200 and 500 pesetas and notes in deonominations of 1000, 2000, 5000 and 10,000 pesetas. The current exchange rates can be found in national newspapers and may be obtained from banks and tourist offices. The exchange rate is approximately 125.3 pesetas to $1 US. Banks are usually open from Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 2:00pm, Saturday 9:00am to 1:00pm and during the summer months, banks are closed on Saturdays. Money can also be changed in exchange offices, travel agencies and the reception desks of larger hotels. American Express offices offer the best exchange rates for travellers and. . . Madrid: El Corte , Ingles: C. Preciados 3 (tel. 532 18 00). Barcelona: Banks in Barcelona give the best rates. Check out: Banco de Espanya ,pl. Catalunya. Open from Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm. Seville: El Cort Ingles , Pl. Duque de la victoria 7 (tel. 422 09 31). Open daily from 10:00 am to 9:30 pmoff season and Monday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm. It is advisable to bring money in the form of traveller's checks. Most internationally recognized credit cards are accepted. What Things Cost in Madrid: Please send your comments to: Jennifer Wolf Also Visit These Travel Pages

Golf Vacations Simply find

Hawaii Discount Vacation - Swift Golf Vacations Sign Up For SwiftMail View Previously Saved Itinerary Reserving the perfect Hawaii discount vacation is easy with Swift Golf Vacations Simply find the place you want to have your dream Hawaii discount vacation. Use the links at the right to browse various golfing destinations. Once you pick the place, we'll help you choose tee times, lodging and vehicles - all the elements necessary for your perfect Hawaii golf vacation. There's no commitment until you have everything just right. For real simplicity, choose one of our outstanding Hawaii discount vacation packages at the far right. Easy and fun in one perfectly planned package! Call To Make Reservations: 1-800-577-3787 See All Available Destinations Golf the lush tropical courses of Hawaii Experience the variety of golf in the Southwest Challenge the courses of the East Coast Try golf northern style - Canada golf courses Enjoy the sun-drenched Caribbean golf courses See All Available Destinations View All Pre-Packaged Hawaii Discount Vacation Specials! California - Monterey Pebble Beach Special 4 Days and 3 Nights 2 Golf Rounds From $2,500 per person - SAVE MORE THAN $300 ! View All Pre-Packaged Hawaii Discount Vacation Specials! If you would like to speak to a Golf Vacation Consultant regarding your golf package to Hawaii, please call toll free 1-800-577-3787, or email Customer Support contact us terms privacy frequently asked questions Swift Golf Vacations is committed to bringing you the very best in golf vacation packages ©2005 Swift Golf Vacations. All Rights Reserved. Home | Browse Destinations | Vacation Specials | Group Travel | Partners | About Us | Site Map

Vacation Packages Choose an

Alaska Travel, Vacations, & Lodges: Alaska Wildland Adventures HOME ALASKA TRIPS ALASKA MAP WHY US PREPARE TO GO RESERVATIONS trip specials | newsletter signup | request a catalog | photo gallery | fun stuff | contact us | 1-800-334-8730 ALASKA TRAVEL DESTINATIONS Denali National Park Kenai Nat'l Wildlife Refuge Kenai Fjords Nat'l Park Chugach Nat'l Forest Arctic Region Inside Passage Discover the Best in Alaska Vacation Packages Choose an Alaska travel vacation package, stay in our beautiful backcountry Alaska lodges or come with us for top Alaska fishing and find out why Alaska Wildland Adventures has been the leader in top quality Alaska adventure travel since 1977. Combining the best of Alaska adventure, river rafting, sea kayaking and hiking with Alaska wildlife viewing, we offer fun, friendly and unforgettable Alaska vacation options - from one to ten days - on the Kenai Peninsula and in Denali National Park, Alaska. We founded Alaska Wildland Adventures 30 years ago with the goal of sharing the wilderness and Alaska's wildlife with active Alaska travelers who seek a high quality, authentic Alaskan adventure for their Alaska vacation. Today, we are proud to continue this tradition as Alaska's largest and oldest operator of wilderness lodge-based Alaska adventure travel. Alaska Adventure Vacations to Suit Your Style of Travel Discover the enchantment of Alaska's wild lands at your own pace on a fully-guided all inclusive vacation package . Or create your own independent travel oriented Alaska adventure package , which lets you choose the day you travel on and a more customized itinerary. Find yourself in a place where wilderness and comfort peacefully coexist. Enjoy the variety of wildlife and scenery which only Alaska can offer: from seacoast glaciers to salmon-filled streams. View snow capped mountains, brown bears, and soaring eagles. Take some time to relax under the midnight sun, knowing that our experienced team will guide you to places few know well, for the trip of a lifetime. Learn More About Our Alaska Vacation Options: Alaska vacations with hiking and relaxing at backcountry lodges in Denali National Park and on the Kenai Peninsula. Adventurous Alaska fishing and rafting in the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Choose a package from our Alaska lodges to add to your Alaska vacation. Enjoy 2 to 7-day Alaska fishing packages at our Kenai River Sportfishing Lodge on the upper Kenai River. Explore wild Alaska on a land tour with our multi-day Alaska adventure packages , the perfect add-on to an Alaska cruise. Our "Top 10" reasons to travel to Alaska with Alaska Wildland Adventures. Our Commitment to Ecotourism Alaska Wildland Adventures is committed to the values of Ecotourism through our guiding principles. Explore Alaska through adventure vacations, unique Alaska lodges, and experience Alaska's natural wonders with Alaska Wildland Adventures. Site Map Privacy Policy Photo Credits: Alaska Wildland ©2005 Alaska Wildland Adventures Concept: LeapUP | Design: The Hive Development: Alaska Web Dynamics

VACATION FEATURES & EXTRAS

Official State of Montana Vacation, Recreation, Accommodations and Travel Information LEWIS & CLARK MONTANA KIDS WILDLIFE WINTER PLAN A MONTANA VACATION FEATURES & EXTRAS ADVANCED SEARCH SITEMAP/HELP/FAQ LINKS TO RELATED SITES WEATHER & CONDITIONS Site Features Email This Page To A Friend Look for the Email This Page To A Friend button on all the pages in this site. It allows you to show the page you are viewing to interested friends or family. Quick Search Tourism Regions The state's six tourism regions invite you to find out more about the distinct scenery, attractions and experiences each offers. Wintermt.com Montanakids.com Lewis & Clark Indian Nations International Visitors Montanafilm.com Montanagroups.com Montanameetings.com State of Montana Feedback Form Privacy Policy Montana's National Parks From the wondrous geological features of Yellowstone to the majesty of Glacier, Montana's National Parks inspire and astound. Taking in everything that these parks have to offer is something that you'll never forget. So what are you waiting for? Visit Yellowstone & Glacier National Park. 1-800-VISIT-MT Our travel counselors love their jobs, and why shouldn't they? Everyday they help hundreds of happy callers plan their visits to our great state. So give us a call at 800-VISIT-MT(847-4868) and keep our travel counselors smiling. •••Note: Our call center will be closed Friday, August 26 while we install new customer service software. We will return to normal operation Tuesday, August 30 at 7:00 am MST.••• -- International Visitors Our partner websites can provide information for visitors from other countries in several different languages, including Chinese , Francais , English , Deutsch , Japanese and Italien . Special Deals Looking for Packages, Lodging, Dining, Camping or Adventure deals? Let us help! Save money on Montana vacations Montana Events Take in one of our many events--from wild & wooly rodeos to Lewis & Clark bicentennial commemorations, you'll find that events in Big Sky Country are uniquely Montana. Events Info Fishing and Hunting Licenses Buy your hunting and fishing licenses online. Online License Sales Travel Montana Intranet : contains information about the Montana Promotion Division of Department of Commerce, State of Montana, including information about the Governors Conference on Tourism & Recreation , The Travel Montana Marketing Plan, Travel Montana Programs, TIIP Grants and News & Updates. Directory of Tourism Businesses & Attractions If you know of a business or event by name, feel free to use the links to our directory below. If you do not know the business event by name, use the Plan a Montana Vacation Link above or the search box. A - C (#'s also) D - H I - M N - R S - Z Top Stories Montana Through the Photographer's Eye Check out our new featured photographer. Visit Montana is featuring beautiful photos of Montana taken by photographer Larry Mayer. View the Gallery -- Invite A Friend To Montana — Invite your friends and family members to explore Montana with a personalized invitation from Governor Schweitzer! Share Montana with someone special The Montana Dinosaur Trail Montana has yielded some of the world's most significant dinosaur discoveries. The thirteen stops along the Montana Dinosaur Trail allow you to discover these paleontological treasures for yourself. Follow The Trail For Dino Adventure Montana Fire Information Update The Summer wildland fire season has begun. Wildland fires are a natural part of life in Montana. They have helped create the landscapes and environment that attract our states residents and visitors. The impact of wildland fires is very local, and Montana is a very big state 94 million acres or 147,000 square miles. To help you understand where the fires are and their impact, if any, on the states attractions and outdoor activities, check out our Montana Fire Information Page. -- Beartooth Highway Open Repairs to the Beartooth Highway (Hwy 212) are now complete. Find out more information about the Beartooth Highway re-opening. Spotlight: Arts and Culture Montana has always been a place of inspiration and beauty. Plan on taking in the diverse offerings of Montana's artistic heritage and see how it's artists interpret the inspiration of Big Sky Country. Arts & Culture Montana Wedding Planner Looking for the perfect wedding location? Let us help! Get Married In Montana Discover Montana's Past Featuring articles about Big Sky Country's past, information about historical attractions like ghost towns, museums, Lewis & Clark, and historical tours. Montana History -- We Got Some Wild, Wild Life In Montana, everyone has a few wild neighbors; of course we're referring to antelope, elk, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, eagles, trumpeter swans, bears, wolves, and more. Glimpse our watchable wildlife . -- All contents © 2005, Travel Montana, Department of Commerce, State of Montana. All rights reserved.