Russia Travel lastminute.com offers

Russia Travel: Deals and travel information for Russia, Asia Mobile site | Security | Your account | Help find - find.html -- Travel to Russia Home > World > Asia > Russia Travel lastminute.com offers a fantastic array of incredible Russia travel deals. Whetherbooking a hotel, flight, holiday or car hire, lastminute.com is your one stop travel shop. So, either check out our special Russia travel deals below,use our search box to find the perfect trip or browse through our vast list of destinations to see all we have to offer. Let lastminute.com help you plan the most rewarding journey you've ever had. Search Travel Flight+Hotel-SAVE £££ Holidays Flights Hotels Holidays search Destination: list destinations Departure area: Show me all Any London Airport / Station Any East Anglia Airport Any Midlands Airport Any North East / Yorkshire Airport Any North West Airport Any Scottish Airport Any South West / Wales Airport Northern Ireland Price: Show me all Under 100 Under 200 Under 300 Under 400 Under 500 Under 600 Under 700 Under 800 Under 900 Under 1000 More than 1000 Day: Month: Any 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 false Any December January February March April May June July August September October November Give or take: 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 ( days ) Board type: Show me all All Inclusive Bed And Breakfast Fly Drive Full-board Half-board Room Only Self Catering Length of stay: Show me all Short Break / Weekend (1-5 Nights) Week (6-9 Nights) Fortnight (10-16 Nights) Longer (17 Nights Or More) Hotel star rating: Show me all 1* 2* 3* 4* 5* Temperature: Show me all Warm (over 15c) Very warm (over 20c) Hot (over 25c) Very hot (over 30c) Travel time: Show me all Less than 3 hours 3 To 6 hours 6 To 9 hours 9 To 12 hours Over 12 hours Keywords (eg 'Pool'): Jump to... Russia Hotels (50) Russia Flights Russia Guide Deals Area Info Attractions Events Deals Today's Top Deals Moscow Hotel St. Petersburg Make the most of these great prices and spend Christmas in the sun, visit Calangute, Goa, India for a fantastic 14 night holiday. from 309 Hotel Sheraton Palace Moscow Enjoy sunsets and beaches in fabulous Goa, 14 Nights from 299 Area Info Travel to the Chechen Republic and to the north Caucasus region is not recommended. For further information visitors should seek official advice. The Russian Federation covers almost twice the area of the United States of America, and reaches from Moscow in the west over the Urals and the vast Siberian plains to the Sea of Okhotsk in the east. The capital, Moscow, was founded in 1147. The focal point of the city is Red Square, on one side of which is the Kremlin surrounded by a thick red fortress wall containing 20 towers. The tsars were crowned here; Ivan the Terrible's throne is situated near the entrance. Those interested in Russia's achievements in the field of space travel should visit Star City, just outside Moscow, which is a cosmonaut training complex open to visitors. St Petersburg, northwest of Moscow, is known both as a cultural centre and for its elegant buildings. The city is spread over 42 islands in the delta of the River Neva. Wide boulevards, tranquil canals and bridges led to the city being known as the 'Venice of the North'. The Palace Square and the Winter Palace are among the most interesting sites for followers of Russian history. The Hermitage houses all the vast treasures of the former tsars. For those wishing to get a better idea of the huge variety of scenery in the Russian Federation, cruises can be taken along the mighty Volga River between Kazan, the cultural centre of the Tartars, to Rostov-on-Don, once an Armenian town and the gateway to the Caucasus. Russian cuisine is based on the staples of buckwheat (to make porridge or blini ), borshch (beetroot soup) or shashlik (shish kebab). Whole roast suckling pig, roast goose stuffed with buckwheat, and roast duck stuffed with apples are served at parties and for special occasions. Russian National Tourist Office (UK office) Address: Orchard House,167-169 Kensington High St,London W8 6SH Email: innteomoscow@innteo-moscow.co.uk Phone: +44 (0) 20 7229 8027 Attractions State Hermitage Museum The Hermitage is one of the world's great museums, with an unbeatable collection of fine and decorative arts. Since its foundation in 1764, when Catherine the Great bought 200 Old Masters, it has grown to include 10,000 paintings and sculptures within its three million exhibits. Tretyakov Gallery Founded in 1856, the Tretyakov Gallery holds the most important collection of Russian painting in the world and houses more than 130,000 works of art. Lenin's Mausoleum Whether you're a die-hard Bolshevik pondering the demise of the USSR, or a keen tourist anxious for some Russian kitsch, not to mention a prime photo-opportunity, Lenin's Mausoleum is hard to beat for sheer drama and a taste of the way things used to be in these parts. St Basil's Cathedral Gaudy and garish, the multicoloured cupolas of St Basil's Cathedral rising out of Red Square have been one of Moscow's most striking and enduring symbols for five centuries. State Academic Bolshoi Theatre One of the most famous theatres in the world, Moscow's Bolshoi Theatre (literally "big" theatre) houses both the Bolshoi Opera and the Bolshoi Ballet. Dominating the square ( ploschad ), the 2000-seat theatre is adorned with a massive eight-column portico topped by Apollo in his chariot. Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts Opened in 1912, only the Hermitage in St Petersburg rivals the fine Russian and European collections at the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts. Fish Fabrique Not certain whether to be a bar or a club, St Petersburg's Fish Fabrique combines the best of both worlds. The live music is good, the atmosphere infectious, especially at the weekends, with a cheap bar that is sometimes manned by local rock star volunteers! Mayakovsky Museum The Mayakovsky Museum opened in January 1974, creating a new way of paying tribute to an artist's legacy. Both anarchic and accessible, the building is worth visiting even if you have never heard of the great man's works. Numerous corridors, stairways and paths are decorated with the poetry, prose and propaganda of one of the leaders of Russian Futurism. This revolutionary zeal guides you into his mode of thinking and through one of the most creative periods of Russian history. Dostoyevsky House Museum Established in 1928, the Dostoyevsky House Museum is a reconstruction of the family home based on the diaries and recollections of the author's childhood. Visitors will be pleased to know that the building now has central heating, so that the cold (which led to Dostoyevsky's mother catching tuberculosis- which she subsequently died from) shouldn't bother them. Svalka Literally translated, Svalka means "dump" and the club is themed around this idea of a wasteground. The chillout room is littered with derelict foreign cars and TV sets playing MTV. A favourite with students, Monday through Wednesday features industrial techno DJs, with live music concerts at the weekend. Events Bolshoi Opera Sep 2005 - Jun 2006 (annual) Bolshoi Theatre Bolshoi Ballet Sep 2005 - Jun 2006 (annual) Bolshoi Theatre Pushkin Festival Jun 2006 (annual) Pushkin Estate Museum (Mikhailovskoe Estate) Easter Sunday Apr 2006 (various dates) Kolomenskoe Russian Winter Festival Dec 2005 - Jan 2006 (annual) Izmailovo Park ; Part of the lastminute.com group. lastminute.com , travel4less.com , travelselect.com , holidayautos.co.uk , medhotels.com , holidayhotels.com , onlinetravel.com , ifyouski.com , exhilaration.co.uk , gotofrance.com Holidays Hotels Citybreaks Gifts Experiences Entertainment Flights Site map Search site Skip navigation links Home Travel World Asia In Russia... Arkhangelsk Flights Ekaterinburg Flights Kaliningrad Flights Kazan Flights Khabarovsk Flights Krasnodar Flights Moscow 29 Hotels Flights Murmansk Flights Penza Flights Perm Flights Samara Flights Saratov Flights Siberia Flights St. Petersburg 21 Hotels Flights Stavropol Flights Tyumen Flights Ulan-Ude Flights Ulyanovsk Flights Volgograd Flights Popular areas Omsk Magadan Irkutsk Novosibirsk Chelyabinsk Hotels in... Moscow St. Petersburg More Russia Hotels --

Ski Vacation

Ski Vacation - Ski Vacation Packages from Fairmont Hotels and Resorts Ski Vacation - Ski Vacation Packages from Fairmont Hotels and Resorts Barbados Bermuda Canada Mexico Monaco United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Fairmont Gold Destination Map Hotel Finder All Hotels New Hotels Resorts St. James Resorts Fairmont Hamilton Princess Fairmont Southampton City Hotels Calgary, Alberta Edmonton, Alberta Montréal, Québec Ottawa, Ontario St. John's, Newfoundland Toronto, Ontario Vancouver, British Columbia Winnipeg, Manitoba Resorts Banff, Alberta Jasper, Alberta Charlevoix, Québec Lake Louise, Alberta Montebello, Québec Mont-Tremblant, Québec Québec City, Québec St. Andrew's, New Brunswick Victoria, British Columbia Whistler, British Columbia Fairmont Hotel Vancouver Fairmont Vancouver Airport Fairmont Waterfront Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello Fairmont Kenauk at Le Chateau Montebello Resorts Acapulco Riviera Maya Resorts Monte Carlo Fairmont Acapulco Princess Fairmont Pierre Marques City Hotels Dubai City Hotels London City Hotels Boston, Massachusetts Chicago, Illinois Dallas, Texas Kansas City, Missouri New Orleans, Louisiana Newport Beach, California San Francisco, California San Jose, California Santa Monica, California Seattle, Washington Washington, D.C. Resorts Scottsdale, Arizona Kohala Coast, Hawaii Maui, Hawaii Sonoma, California Miami, Florida Residence Telluride, Colorado Experience Fairmont Packages FairmontSAVERS Package Finder Entire Site Hotels Packages Press Releases Introduction Member Benefits Enroll Terms & Conditions Privacy Policy FAQ Newsletter Already a member Sign In In Your Opinion -- In Your Opinion My Profile Corporate Rewards Gift Certificate High Speed Internet ResPlus Sign In ResPlus Information Our Philosophy Environment Our History Press Room Contact Us Careers Programs & Partners Fairmont Community Investor Relations Destination Map Vacation Planner Fairmont Experience Slideshow Online Demo -- Hotel Fact Sheets Weddings Meeting Planners Discover FAIRMONT SKI DESTINATIONS Skiers will marvel at the natural beauty of Fairmont's Canadian ski destinations. Ragged peaks, high cliffs, and impossibly blue lakes overlaid by snowy blankets that dazzle in the bright sunlight. Whether it is the drama of the Rocky Mountains in Jasper, Banff and Lake Louise, the rolling Laurentians of Tremblant and Charlevoix, or the inspired setting at Whistler, voted North America's finest ski destination - skiing with Fairmont guarantees you the experience of a lifetime. After an invigorating day on the slopes, step into consummate luxury. Our ski resorts offer unmatched hospitality. Have a massage and whirlpool soak at Willow Stream - The Spa at The Fairmont Banff Springs. Delight in fine dining in The Wildflower at The Fairmont Chateau Whistler, or test your luck in the Casino de Charlevoix at the elegant Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu. If you crave waist-deep powder and black diamond runs, or just an afternoon on the bunny hill, ski holidays don't get better than this. With hundreds of marked runs, short lift lines and a vast selection of well-groomed cross-country trails, ski enthusiasts of every calibre from around the globe come to experience the world of skiing at Fairmont Hotels & Resorts. Slideshow The Fairmont Chateau Whistler Ski and Breakfast Package Whistler, British Columbia, Canada 11-24-2005 to 4-23-2006 Enjoy the convenience of The Fairmont Chateau Whistler's Ski & Breakfast Package. More Information Similar Packages Discover Ski Destinations at Fairmont. Ski Destination Map sPathName/CDA/Home/Hotels/Facilities/CDRecreationFacilities -Select a Ski destination- Fairmont Le Château Frontenac Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu Fairmont Tremblant The Fairmont Banff Springs The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise The Fairmont Chateau Whistler The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Fairmont Heritage Place FranzKlammer Lodge -Select a Property- United States - Residence - Fairmont Heritage Place Franz Klammer Lodge Canada - Resort - Fairmont Le Château Frontenac Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu Fairmont Tremblant The Fairmont Banff Springs The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise The Fairmont Chateau Whistler The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2005 2006 2007 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2005 2006 2007 2008 1 2 3 4 0 1 2 3 Non-Smoking Smoking King or Queen Two Beds No Preference Best Available Rate FairmontSAVERS Bed & Breakfast *ID required at Check-in * if applicable More Information -- Choose a Category Celebration Discovery Family Food & Wine Golf Spa Culture Signature Package Special Offers Ski Fairmont SAVERS Bed and Breakfast Destination The Fairmont Kea Lani Maui The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa The Fairmont Turnberry Isle Resort & Club Fairmont Heritage Place Franz Klammer Lodge Fairmont Newport Beach The Fairmont Chicago The Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston The Fairmont Dallas The Fairmont Kansas City at the Plaza The Fairmont Miramar Hotel Santa Monica The Fairmont New Orleans The Fairmont Olympic Hotel, Seattle The Fairmont San Francisco The Fairmont San Jose The Fairmont Washington, D.C. The Savoy The Fairmont Acapulco Princess The Fairmont Mayakoba The Fairmont Pierre Marques Fairmont Monte Carlo Fairmont Kenauk at Le Château Montebello Fairmont Le Château Frontenac Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu Fairmont Tremblant The Fairmont Algonquin The Fairmont Banff Springs The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise The Fairmont Chateau Whistler The Fairmont Empress The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Fairmont Château Laurier Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver The Fairmont Newfoundland The Fairmont Palliser The Fairmont Royal York The Fairmont Vancouver Airport The Fairmont Waterfront The Fairmont Winnipeg The Fairmont Hamilton Princess The Fairmont Southampton The Fairmont Royal Pavilion The Fairmont Dubai 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 2005 2006 2007 After a day of ski revitalize yourself at Willow Stream Spa. Replenish Your Energy R ECENT NEWS 11/4/2005 - Lake Louise To Host Top Hollywood Celebrities 9/6/2005 - Cold Play at The Fairmont Chateau Whistler More News -- FAIRMONT RESERVATIONS: 1(800) 257-7544 Last Updated: 12/28/2005 Fairmont Hotels & Resorts © 2005

Central America Travel

Belize, Central America - Travel and Tourism Information  You are here: About > Travel > Mexico / Central America for Visitors > Belize, Central America > Belize, Central America - Travel and Tourism Information Travel Go Mexico Essentials Packing List for Travelers to Mexico Health Information Mexico / C. America Safety Considerations Travel Books Mexico and Central America Tourism Offices Mexico/ Central America Articles & Resources Mexico Mexico City Acapulco, Mexico Cancun Yucatan Baja Los Cabos Puerto Vallarta Other Places Photos of Mexico Belize, Central America Costa Rica El Salvador Guatemala Honduras Nicaragua Panama Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Mexico / Central America for Visitors newsletter! See Online Courses   Search Mexico / Central America for Visitors Image Courtesy of NURP Stay up to date! Image Courtesy of NURP Email to a friend Print this page Related Belize Resources Belize Online Resources Explore More of Belize Belize Accommodations Photos of Belize Maya Ruins in Belize Recent Discussions Travelling to Central/South America? Multi-Destination Flights Sport Fishing Charters Most Popular Mexican Music La Paz, Mexico Quinceanera Packing List Tijuana, Mexico What's Hot Buying Real Estate in Mexico Puerto Vallarta Cozumel, Mexico Whale Watching Fishing In Mexico Related Topics California for Visitors South America for Visitors Caribbean for Visitors Mexican Cuisine Belize, Central America From Apply Now , Your Guide to Mexico / Central America for Visitors . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! Coral reefs, tropical cayes, Maya ruins, exotic wildlife and more Belize (formerly known as British Honduras) is located on Central America's Caribbean coast, bordering Mexico, Guatemala and the Caribbean Sea ( see map ). Although it is a small country of only about 8,800 square miles (about the size of New Hampshire), the country has many beautiful natural venues and interesting historical sites. In particular, Belize has the second largest barrier reef in the world, a number of lush tropical rain forests, picturesque mountains fed by rivers and waterfalls, exotic wildlife, and many fascinating Maya archeological sites. Belize is unique among the countries of Central America, inasmuch as the official language is English, rather than Spanish. Further, Belize's principal ethnic group is black Creole, rather than Spanish or mestizo. The country has a population of just over 200,000 - making it the most sparsely populated country in Central America. The climate is subtropical, with an annual mean daily temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit. The breezes from the Caribbean Sea have a refreshing cooling effect, and help to offset the humidity - at least in the coastal areas. The following briefly describes some the main visitor attractions in Belize: Belize Barrier Reef The Belize Barrier Reef is the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere and the second largest in the world. This reef lies parallel to the coast of Belize, and stretches about 180 miles in a north to south direction. The Belize Barrier Reef is widely regarded as one of the world's best diving and snorkeling sites. The water on this reef is calm and clear with water visibility usually reaching about 100 feet. The water temperature remains at around 80 degrees Fahrenheit for most of the year. The reef is home to about 375 species of fish and about 60 types of coral. Just beyond the main reef are three "atolls" - very large oval shaped formations of coral. In close proximity to the reef can be found a number of marine reserves, including Laughing Bird Caye National Park and Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve . These reserves are well worth a visit for those interested in marine ecology. In addition to diving and snorkeling, the reef is also a great location for water skiing, wind surfing, fishing or just plain swimming. Ambergris Caye Ambergris Caye , the largest of the more than 200 cayes (islands) located on Belize's northern coastline, lies just west of the Belize Barrier Reef . This narrow island is about 25 miles long and is perhaps the most popular tourist destination in Belize. Ambergris Caye , with its lush vegetation, pleasing climate and pristine white beaches, is the " Isla Bonit a" (Beautiful Island) referred to by Madonna in her popular song of the same name. Because it lies less than a mile from the barrier reef, Ambergris Caye attracts large numbers of scuba divers and snorkelers. However, many other activities are popular here, including windsurfing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, nature walks, visits to nearby Maya ruins, and more. The small town of San Pedro , located in the south part of Ambergris Caye , has numerous restaurants specializing in fresh seafood, as well as authentic Belizean cuisine. Street vendors serve inexpensive freshly made tacos and a variety of delicious grilled meats. San Pedro has several bars and discos, night beach parties (which are open to all), and a number of cultural festivals held on various days throughout the year. The town also has numerous small shops which sell a variety of handicrafts made by local artisans, including pottery, paintings and some truly beautiful coral and silver jewelry. Ambergris Caye has many deluxe resorts and condominiums available for visitors, but budget accommodation is not difficult to arrange. Photo image of coral barrier reef courtesy of OAR/National Undersea Research Program (NURP) - Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. 1 2 Next        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 Buying Real Estate in Mexico Puerto Vallarta Cozumel, Mexico Whale Watching Fishing In Mexico

Chicago Vacations, Tourism, Hotels

Chicago Vacations & Tourism, Chicago Hotels, Chicago Attractions - Yahoo! Travel Primary Navigation Overview | Hotels | Things to do | Restaurants | Map | Flights | Cars | Deals | FareChase Chicago, IL: Search Travel Travel > Guides > North America > United States > Illinois > Chicago Email this page Print Chicago Vacations, Tourism, Hotels Hotels Things to do Restaurants Map Deals Trip Planner Photo Album - Slideshow 48 User Photos Use Flickr to Add Your Photos Introduction to Chicago Map - Neighborhoods Top Hotels 218 Reviews - Write a Review Yahoo! Answers for Chicago Chicago Alerts Deals, news, reviews and more Chicago Weather 34° / 40° F Seasonal Forecast Search Yahoo! FareChase Find the best prices on flights. From To Depart Return 1 2 3 4 Adult Round-Trip One-Way More Options « December, 2005 January, 2006 February, 2006 March, 2006 April, 2006 May, 2006 June, 2006 July, 2006 August, 2006 September, 2006 October, 2006 » S M T W T F S S M T W T F S Where to Stay Travelers Recommend Yahoo! User Rating From* 1. Swissotel Chicago $151 2. The Peninsula Chicago $445 3. Drake Hotel Hilton $295 4. Crowne Plaza The Chicago Silvers... $135 5. The Westin Chicago River North $139 6. W Chicago Lakeshore $169 7. Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown N/A 8. Embassy Suites Chicago Lakefront N/A 9. Marriott Chicago Downtown $149 10. Loews House of Blues Hotel $150 By neighborhood: Lincoln Park , Far North Side , Loop By price: $0-$99.99 , $100-$149.99 , $150-$199.99 , $200-$299.99 , $350-$449.99 View all Chicago, IL Hotels *Some taxes, fees additional. Learn more . What to Do Travelers Recommend Yahoo! User Rating Category 1. Navy Pier Attractions 2. Art Institute of Chicago (The) Architecture 3. Museum of Science and Industry Science 4. John G. Shedd Aquarium & Oceanarium Zoos, Farms 5. Millenium Park Day Trips 6. Sears Tower Skydeck Attractions 7. Field Museum (The) General History 8. Water Tower Place Attractions 9. Oprah Winfrey Show (The) Attractions 10. Taste of Chicago Other By category: Tourist Attractions & Sightseeing , Museums & Galleries , Galleries , more More things to do in Chicago, IL Where to Eat Travelers Recommend Yahoo! User Rating Category 1. Walnut Room, (The) 2. Coco Pazzo Italian 3. Giordano's Italian 4. Bistro 110 5. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse Steak 6. Lou Mitchell's Delis 7. Harold's Chicken Shack American 8. Reza's Mediterranean 9. Pequod's Pizza Pizzeria 10. Vermilion Indian By cuisine: American , Italian , Contemporary , more More restaurants in Chicago, IL Learn more about Chicago User Submitted Photos of Chicago By: rebel89110 By: rebel89110 By: rebel89110 View all 48 user photos Use Flickr to Add Your Photos Yahoo! User Trip Plans Planning a trip to Chicago? See what other users did. "chicago" by jenn_michelson 1 days - Chicago, Wheaton, Schaumburg Restaurant: Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament Things to do: Field Museum (The), Graceland Cemetery, Sears... Copy this trip - Plan a new trip - View more public trips - What is Trip Planner? Yahoo! Message Board for Chicago neighboorhood itailan restaurant by g_yaw Today, 2:22pm (ET) I have something for you to do in Chicago by nurseclairesoon Today, 1:52pm (ET) Neighboorhood suggestions, please? by jspell3 12/21/05 11:23pm (ET) New Years's Eve Fun 21+ by davekaiser1 12/21/05 8:23am (ET) Looking of something to do this new years by davekaiser1 12/18/05 8:03pm (ET) See all topics - Start a new topic Yahoo! User Reviews of Chicago You'll have the time As we natives like to say, if the weather was better, we'd be New York -- too big and expensive to live here. A few helpful hints for visitors - there are many more cultural options here than ... more by A Yahoo! User 05/07/05 Great City...Go in the Summer Though I typically spend the last week of November/first week in December in Chicago every year. It is a very clean city that offers quite a bit in terms of dining, entertainment, and culture. Some things ... more by Scott from New York, NY 01/27/05 Chicago is a guaranteed fun time! I used to live in Wisconsin, and I came to Chicago for a concert. I spent 3 days in Chicago taking everything in, and it was love at first sight! One year later, I moved here, and I am so happy ... more by A Yahoo! User 02/10/05 Write a review - Read all reviews (218) User Reviews from the Web Chicago Hotels - 270 reviews 139 pictures Cass Hotel, Hyatt Regency - Chicago, Swissotel - Chicago, Sheraton Chicago Hotel and Towers, Lenox Suites Hotel, Drake Hotel - Chicago, Holiday Inn Chicago-City Centre, Hotel 71, Hilton Chicago ... more VirtualTourist.com Chicago - modern architecture wherever you go In 2001 I did have the chance to visit Chicago on my trip from Vancouver BC Canada to New York. The city has loads to offer. Great architecture, good beer from small microbreweries and an extraordinary ... more GLOBOsapiens.net Local Customs - 107 reviews 63 pictures Local Foods, Music, Inventions VirtualTourist.com Read all User Reviews (14) Expert Advice on Chicago Guides Overview Don't try to hang a clever moniker on Chicago -- America's midwestern metropolis moves too fast to be pinned down. What was once considered a gangster's paradise has evolved into an eclectic amalgam ... more Fodor's CITY INFORMATION Suburbs North: Evanston, Glenview, Gurnee, Highland Park, Highwood, Northbrook, Skokie, and Wilmette; Northwest: Arlington Heights, Itasca, Schaumburg, and Wheeling; South: Homewood and Oak Lawn ... more Mobil Travel Guide City Overview The poet, Carl Sandburg, called Chicago the 'City of Big Shoulders'. The city needs them, because it hoists a world - a world of ethnic and religious diversity, world-class educational institutions ... more Columbus Guides Read all Guides (40) Travel Articles Day Trips Out of the city USA Today Insider Tips Jump on the El; stay out of the zone USA Today City Guide USA Today Read all Travel Articles (10) Photos & Videos Chicago Live from the West Loop updated every five minutes. www.rreese.com Roadside Art Online: Gyros Project images of gyro signs found around Chicago. www.interestingideas.com Beautiful View QuickTime panoramas and photos of Chicago area events and locations. www.beautifulview.com Read all Photos & Videos (6) Search the Web Search the Web for more info on Chicago, IL . Find a cheap airfare to Chicago, IL on Yahoo! FareChase. Getting Around Chicago, IL View larger map of Chicago, IL Map nearby: Attractions Shopping Hotels Restaurants Entertainment Nearby Cities Cicero, IL (5.6 miles) Oak Park, IL (7.4 miles) Berwyn, IL (7.5 miles) Forest Park, IL (8.8 miles) Riverside, IL (9.0 miles) Getting There Flights to Chicago, IL Car Rentals in Chicago, IL Hotels in Chicago, IL Vacation Packages for Chicago, IL Cheap Airfares on Yahoo! FareChase Best Fares to Chicago Departing from From* Seattle/Tacoma, WA $183.00* San Francisco, CA $183.00* New York, NY - all $123.00* See all Chicago Flights Set Alert *Some taxes, fees additional. Learn more . Disclaimer More Recommendations Neighborhood Guide Eat & Drink Guide Recommended Tours Sign up for Travel Emails Yahoo! Travel Newsletter travel tips, news, deals Destination Alerts city-specific deals and info Help get your favorite places listed on Yahoo! Travel: suggest a hotel or suggest an attraction . Explore the Travel Guide for Chicago, IL Related Information Popular Attractions in Chicago Navy Pier Art Institute of Chicago (The) Museum of Science and Industry John G. Shedd Aquarium & Oceanarium Millenium Park Field Museum (The) Sears Tower Skydeck Oprah Winfrey Show (The) Water Tower Place Taste of Chicago Popular Hotels in Chicago Swissotel Chicago The Peninsula Chicago Amalfi Hotel Chicago Drake Hotel Hilton The Westin Chicago River North Omni Chicago Hotel Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown Hotel Monaco Chicago Embassy Suites Chicago Lakefront Crowne Plaza The Chicago Silversmith Popular Cities near Chicago Chicago Springfield Gurnee Champaign Rockford Galena Bloomington Peoria St. Charles Schaumburg Search Travel Yahoo! Travel: Your best choice for cheap airline tickets and other great deals!

Asia Travel || Malaysia

Travel Information of Malaysia Malaysia Country and Travel Information Malaysia Hotels & Resorts Reservation GENERAL INFORMATION Malaysia is located in the heart of Southeast Asia. Consisting of 127,000 sq. miles (330,200 sq. km), Malaysia is divided into two main regions: Peninsular Malaysia, which lies just south of Thailand, and East Malaysia, which can be found north of Indonesia on the island of Borneo. These two regions are divided into thirteen states and federal territories. Although East Malaysia occupies the larger portion of Malaysia's total area, it is primarily comprised of undeveloped land and jungles. Malaysia is a land of fascinating sights and attractions. Rich in colour and contrasts, her multi-faceted charm provides intriguing images that leave visitors to the country in awe. The natural warmth of Malaysians is legendary; wherever one goes, the friendliness and hospitality of the people would prove to be a very special experience. Malaysia is paradise. Its sun-drenched beaches, enchanting islands, diverse flora and fauna, forest retreats and magnificent mountains are among the best in this region. Many visitors have discovered Malaysia's other attractions: a shopping haven, a versatile conference venue, an incentive destination, an adventure land and much more. WEATHER CONDITIONS With temperature that fluctuates little throughout the year, travel in Malaysia is a pleasure. Average temperature is between 21 to 32 degree celcius. Humidity is high. Rain tends to occur between November to February on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, on western Sarawak, and north-eastern Sabah. On the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia the rainy seasons is April to May and October to November. PEOPLE AND CULTURE Malaysia has a combined population of over 18 million people. Because of its central location, between the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea, Malaysia has traditionally been a meeting point for traders and travelers from both the East and West. As a result, Malaysia has a multicultural and multiracial population consisting of Malays, Chinese, Indians and numerous indigenous peoples. Although Malay is the official language, English is widely spoken, especially in business, and the English language is a compulsory subject in all schools. With such a varying ethnic composition, it is no surprise that a great diversity of religions is prevalent throughout Malaysia. Although the official religion is Islam, freedom of worship is practiced. As a result, it is a common to see temples, mosques and churches within the same area. Ethnic Groups: 59% Malay and other indigenous, 32% Chinese and 9% Indian. Languages: Malay (official), English, Chinese dialects, Mandarin, Hakka dialects, Cantonese, Tamil and numerous tribal languages. Religion: Muslim (primarily Malays), Buddhism (Chinese), Hindu (Indian), Christianity, Confucianism, Taoism and tribal religions. LOCAL CUSTOMS General: When visiting Malaysia, the visitor should observe local customs and practices. Some common courtesies and customs are as follow:- Although handshakes generally suffice for both men and women, some Muslim ladies may acknowledge an introduction with a gentleman with a nod of her head and smile. A handshake is only to be reciprocated if the lady offers her hand first. The traditional greeting of "salam" resembles a handshake with both hands but without the grasp. The man offers both hands, lightly touches his friend's outstretched hands, then brings his hands to his chest to mean, " I greet you from my heart". The visitor should reciprocate the "salam". It is polite to call before visiting a home Shoes must be removed when entering a Malaysian home. It is also customary to do so upon entering a mosque or an Indian temple. The right hand is always used when eating with one's hand or when giving and receiving objects The right forefinger is not used to point at places, objects or persons. Instead, the thumb of the right hand with the four fingers, folden under is preferred usage. Toasting is not a common practice in Malaysia. The country's large Muslim population does not drink alcoholic bevergaes. THINGS TO KNOW Population: 20 million Capital: Kuala Lumpur Flag: Fourteen equal horizontal stripes of red (top) alternating with white (bottom); there is a blue rectangle in the upper hoist-side corner bearing a yellow crescent and a yellow fourteen-pointed star; the crescent and star are traditional symbols of Islam; the design was based on the U.S. flag. Shop Hours: Department stores and supermarkets are usually open from 10am to 10pm and shops from 9:30am to 7pm. In Kuala Lumpur, as well as in most major towns, there are several 24-hour stores. Bank Hours: Most states: Mon-Fri: 9:30am-4.00pm Sat : 9:30am-11:30am Sun : Closed Kelantan and Terengganu: Sat-Wed: 9:30am-4.00pm Thur : 9:30am-11.30am Fri : Closed VISAS AND PASSPORT Visitors must be in possession of a current passport or other internationally recognized travel document. They must be endorsed for traveling to Malaysia and have a period of validity of at least six months beyond the time of stay allowed in Malaysia. No visas are required for citizens of British Commonwealth countries (except India), British Protected persons, and citizens of the Republic of Ireland, Liechtenstein, the Netherlands, San Marino, Switzerland and the United States (for social, business or academic purposes only). No visas are required for stays not exceeding three months for citizens of: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Luxemburg, Norway, South Korea, Sweden, Tunesia, U.S.A. , France and Germany (except for local employment). CUSTOMS REGULATIONS Duty-Free Items: Items such as cameras, watches, pens, portable radio-cassette players, perfume, cosmetics and lighters are duty-free in Malaysia. Visitors bringing in dutiable goods may have to pay a deposit for temporary importation, refundable on departure - usually 50% of the value (carry receipt of purchase and obtain an official receipt for any tax or deposit paid). Asia Travel || Malaysia Hotels & Resorts Reservation