Top Budget Attractions In Bristol For All The Family

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Staycations are on the rise here in the UK, and there's more than just the economy to thank. Everyone has finally realised that there are a lot of interesting and fun attractions that can cover almost every age group on their door step. With museums, Zoo's and many other heritage sights, why not discover your very own local history today.

One of the main locations seeing a large surge in visits has to be Bristol, located in the South West of England. Not all vacations have to be expensive and especially when it's a family trip that is a regular occurrence towards promoting family time and towards escaping the daily stress and strains. Low cost getaways are always a great option.

Let's view some of the top budget attractions and activities for any family looking to have a short escape this summer:

Let's view The Clifton Suspension Bridge to begin. Providing the perfect location to enjoy a free guided tour of Bristol's most famous landmark. The bridge was built in 1836, by Isambard Kindom Brubel. Spanning a graceful 702 feet across the cliffs of Avon Gorge. At 250 feet above sea level, will ensure for a magnificent view of the city. Just don't forget to visit the visitor centre before leaving and getting some great pictures.

So, what's next I hear you ask. Well although this next activity is not free it is cheap, tying this amongst other free activities will be sure to maximise your trip. All visitors will be recommended to visit the Brunel SS Great Britain. Located in the Great Western Dockyard the passenger steamship was built to travel between Bristol and New York. What makes the steamship interesting is that it was much ahead of its time, featuring screw propeller and built with iron. And in 1843 it was considered the largest vessel on the waters. Now a museum there is plenty here to ensure all generations have fun.

Next on to the trusted museums that are provided within almost every city and are always considered a must visit. To learn about the local history and any other possible exhibition currently on display. But what makes the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery special is that its free and contains 19 galleries over 3 floors including hands on areas for all the family. Here children and adults of all generations will not be disappointed with world class collections of art, archaeology, Egyptology and geology, including natural history are all present within just three floors.

Finally, once the views of the city have been captured along with the local culture and history, there is always time to discover a little extra. So why not visit The Red Lodge Museum. Conveniently located within the city centre the museum is an old historic Elizabethan house. With over 400 hundred years of history, built in 1580, the lodge was once the home of Elizabeth I. Entry to the museum is free and full of Elizabethan and Georgian styles.

Don't also forget to choose great accommodation, whether a Hotel in Bristol City or B&B is preferred there is no doubt many different choices available. It's vital to select somewhere that is relatively close to all the local attractions to help maximise the possible visits to the local attractions and activities.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7149023

Tags: Bristol UK, Bristol, Hotels, vacation, activities, family, staycation, budget

Park Attractions in London: Chill Out and Relax in England's Capital

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London may come across as a huge, noisy, concrete city, but when you start to explore it you will realise that some of its greatest charms lie in its natural parks.

If you decide to book a stay in a Hyde Park hotel, London is ripe for exploring. You don't just have one park to explore, but a number of others which are just as interesting. Here are a few of the top ones to make sure you visit during your stay.

1. Richmond Park

Richmond Park is one of the royal parks in London which is famous for its wild deer. It used to be a deer-hunting area when it was first established, and now it has over 600 deer roaming wild which you can see when you visit. It is not located in the centre of the city, so it requires a train or tube ride, but it is well worth it. When you get there you will find 2,000 acres of open space to enjoy, making it a great way to escape the city for a break.

2. Hyde Park

Of course, this is clearly going to be one of the most convenient places to visit when you stay in a H. P. hotel. London has a large number to explore, but this is the biggest and the best - and you will be right next door! Some of the main attractions include the Serpentine Lake which you can stroll along or hire a boat and row along; the Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain; Speakers' Corner where people have been airing their views to anyone who cares to listen since 1872; and much more besides.

3. Victoria Park

Victoria Park is not the largest green space in the city, but it was the first one to be made public. It is great for simply going for a walk to enjoy its natural surroundings, but there are also activities such as tennis and outdoor theatre performances, and during the summer large events are often held here.

4. St James's Park

This is another green space that you will certainly want to check out when you stay in a Hyde Park hotel. London has a number of famous features which are all located near here, including the Mall down the side, Buckingham Palace at one end and Horseguards parade, home of Trooping the Colour in June, at the other.

Enjoy London's Natural Attractions

Make sure you visit a few of these wonderful urban gardens when you stay in your Hyde Park hotel. London boasts some spectacular spaces, including the ones above, and they are all free to visit.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7146778

Tags: London, London parks, Hyde Park hotel London

Why Egypt Is Still a Hot Family Destination

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If you haven't heard about the political crisis currently affecting Egypt you must have been living under a rock. The transition from dictatorship to democracy has been anything but smooth for the Egyptian population and even worse for tourism. Egypt holidays were once a must for most holiday makers with a visit to the ancient pyramids number one on the to do list. The political unrest has slowed trade dramatically though as holidaymakers seek to avoid any chance of holiday hell. This lack of confidence however, is fairly unfounded in 2012. Despite the military closing the pyramids back in 2011 and mass cancellation of tours, the pyramids are now very much open and political demonstrations are few and far between. Those holidaymakers who have visited Egypt since the unrest began haven't, for the most part, been unaffected. In fact with the negative turn in tourism, tour operators have been pushing Egypt with huge discounts and fantastic deals to recoup their losses from 2011. This could perhaps be one of the best times to go while prices are low and tour operators are most on their guard. With the unstable situation, security is even tighter and local guides have been striving to ensure their guests are protected. It goes without saying that the local people rely heavily on tourism and so it is in their interest to look after you as much as possible.

And so a family holiday to Egypt is still a safe possibility especially if you head further south away from Cairo. You can see the pyramids in a day and fly straight out of Cairo post viewing. One of the most fabulous locations in Egypt has to be Luxor, home to the Valley of the Kings. Here you can take your family on a hot air balloon ride over the ancient ruins, ride in a horse-drawn carriage right up into the Valley and see the mighty Karnak Temple. Heading west from Luxor to the River Nile you can jump on board a felucca and sail the mighty river. Daily life will pass you by as you gaze out onto the river banks and the felucca owners are generally a very happy bunch of Egyptians eager to please and show you their beautiful country. Looking to Hurghada and the west you'll find the family-friendly Red Sea resort. This is all about snorkeling, swimming and dolphin spotting. From the sea you can head inland on a camel to explore the vast desert. The desert is home to lush oasis, world famous marine life and pristine coral beds. You can try snorkeling and sand boarding or take a 4WD drive across the dry plains. In Dahab you can enjoy kayaking, walking up Mt. Sinai to watch the sunrise and diving.

Your family holiday in Egypt doesn't need to be affected by political events in anyway and the people of Egypt rely on your tourism to survive. The new president-elect, Mohammed Mursi, has recently begun the long process of introducing democracy and rebuilding the economy. Tourism will play a big part in this and the travel industry is behind the move to reignite the Egypt holiday train. There is optimism in the air and your family can play a part in Egypt's new future.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7151133

Tags: family holiday, egypt holidays

Exploring the Treasures and Culture of Poland

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When it comes to traveling and sightseeing in and around Poland, luxury train holidays present a more leisurely option. If you want to avoid the stress and hassle of flying, the high-speed rail network is increasingly becoming a popular option. So if you want to slow down and smell the roses so to speak, take a more sedate route and you will be able to enjoy the scenery which you may otherwise bypass when travelling by air.

By choosing train holidays, you are forced to slow down, simply relax and enjoy the company of your loved ones and friends. Train holidays also present a great alternative for people who have a fear of flying and those who love to see the majestic beauty of the countryside without the stress of overly long check-ins and the possibility of lost luggage.

Destination Poland

Train holidays to Poland showcase the unfettered beauty of a country that is more often than not an overlooked travel destination. If you are looking for a dream break in a land that is teeming with rich culture, history, great food and that distinct European charm, Poland should be top of your list to visit. Not quite convinced? Here are some of the wonderful reasons why you should consider visiting Poland:

The Charming Towns and Cities

The country offers a highly diverse feel and social culture, which means you won't feel the entire journey is a mere litany of sameness. For one, Warsaw is best known for its ultra modern urban pulse, in which Kracow stands regally with historic pride. Be charmed off your feet at Wroclaw's touches of whimsy as well as the stately maritime heritage of Gdansk.

World Heritage Sites

Poland also showcases several world heritage sites that were designated by UNESCO in its efforts to preserve the historical and cultural artifacts of the country's colourful history. Among the most popular attractions include Cracow's Old Town, which includes two main UNESCO-protected sites: the Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Salt Mines. In the southern parts of Poland, you will also be able to see some of the stunning collection of wooden churches, in Little Poland. Another must-visit site is the Black Madonna of Jasna Gora Monastery.

Polish Holidays and Festivals

If you happen to visit Poland during a festival or in the holiday seasons, it is guaranteed to offer a truly magical and memorable experience for both young and old. Discover just how Poles wonderfully showcase and celebrate the importance of Easter and Christmas in Warsaw, Cracow and other major cities. The city centres are all lit up with decorations, coupled with strings of concerts and performances that help contribute to a wonderfully celebratory atmosphere.

Musical Heritage

A lot of people don't know that the famous composer Chopin is actually from Poland. His statue can be seen in Lazienki Park and concerts are regularly held in celebration of the great musician. The pulsating music scene of Poland ranges from jazz, opera and medieval music, which you can enjoy in different venues across its major cities.

Castles

Of course, your visit to Poland wouldn't be complete without seeing some of its majestic castles, which you can find in various preservation states, from ruins to those that have been able to maintain their structural integrity. Among the most famous and easily accessible ones are the Wawel Castle of Cracow and the Royal Castle of Warsaw.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7150545

Tags: Poland, culture, traditions, train holidays

Enjoy The Unique Charms and Attractions of Warsaw in Poland

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Explore Europe under your own steam through luxury holidays by train. If you want to enjoy sightseeing and discovering key destinations without the stress of airport transfers, holidays by train offer first class travel across different destinations. Now you can enjoy the very best sightseeing experience in a more leisurely manner.

European holidays by train guarantee a unique experience, travelling to vibrant cities such as Budapest, Istanbul and Warsaw, among others. Every stop is carefully handpicked to showcase key attractions to regale tourists.

Visiting Warsaw

Holidays by train are especially ideal for people who are paying their first visit to Europe. When planning a trip, one of the highlights is Warsaw, which offers many exceptional must-see attractions and must-try activities.

As the capital city of Poland, Warsaw is known as a major business hub for serious shoppers and tourists. What sets it apart is the fact that while it features the usual hustle and bustle of a modern city, it is also teeming with scenic old town charm that has been fully re-built following the World War II. This means apart from enjoying the sight of skyscrapers, it is also a wonderful destination for wandering around its old relics.

To give you an idea what's in store in Warsaw, check out the top recommended activities below.

Discover the Warsaw Old Town and Castle

Warsaw's old town (stare miasto) and the castle (zamek) were both completely rebuilt right after the war. The main square features restaurants, cafes as well as tourist shops that are sure to delight and titillate your senses. Make sure to check out the mermaid statue (syrenka), which is located right at the centre of the old town square, and serves as the city's emblem. For some romance and quiet time, walk among the medieval ramparts to best enjoy the majestic views of the city. To enjoy some really authentic Polish cuisine, check out their dumpling restaurants (pierogarnia), featuring fillings that will make your mouth water in anticipation and delight.

Enjoy Chopin in Royal Park

If you are planning to visit Warsaw during the summer season, enjoy some relaxing time at Royal Park. If you are lucky, you may be able to catch an open air concert featuring the music of Chopin during the early evenings. Both locals and tourists gather here to enjoy great music or simply relax after a hard day's work.

Shop at Golden Terraces Centre

This shopping centre was built several years ago, following the completion of the Palace of Culture and the Warsaw Central Station. The Golden Terraces Centre features the highly modern and ultra sleek shops of some of the most popular brand names. It also houses a string of restaurants and cafes as well as a cinema. For those travelling by train, this location is perfect to squeeze in some serious shopping.

Sample delicious cakes

One of the must-try food items in Warsaw is the local donut, along with the city's unique versions of cakes and other baked goodies. Among the most famous and sought after providers is the Blikle Café, which is situated in the elegant district of Nowy Swiat Street.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7150557

Tags: holidays by train, Poland, Warsaw attractions

Halong Bay: A Natural Wonder

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Some have called this unique UNESCO World Heritage site one of the wonders of the world, and for good reason. At first glance, the area reminds one of a scene from a pirate movie. Unsurprisingly, each year, thousands of photographers come to Halong Bay simply to capture images of this marine paradise. Halong Bay is situated in Quáng Ninh Province, Vietnam. Walk along its more than 120 km coastline and you'll see hundreds of towering limestone cliffs and unbelievably green islets (1969 in all) of various sizes and shapes nestled in the bluest of ocean waters. Halong Bay has often been described as a 'magical' place due to its unearthly beauty and untouched and mysterious ambiance.

Listed below are some activities and sites you may consider during your trip to Halong Bay.

Ride a wooden junk and explore the islands.

The best way to see the beauty of Halong Bay is to cruise around the islands in a wooden junk. Depending on the service you engage, these junks generally stop at specific islands and offer guided tours, similar to many other places in Vietnam. Walk around these islands you'll truly be in awe of nature's majesty. A number of the islands are hollow and hold enormous caves, others house floating fishing villages, and still others boast scenic lakes within.

Eat the freshest seafood.

The beautiful blue waters of Halong Bay, which is perfect for water-based activities such as swimming, boating, snorkelling, and kayaking, also support over 200 types of fish and 450 different types of molluscs, which are served by the local restaurants and cruise ships. If you're a fishing enthusiast, check with your agent regarding fishing cruises, including night fishing cruises, with local fishermen. Fresh seafood can also be bought from local fishermen and can be cooked and served on deck; or head over to one of the nearby restaurants where much of the day's catch is kept fresh and alive in tanks, ready to be cooked. Take a chance and choose a local dish - you'll be sure to remember the taste long after you've left Vietnam. Walk on the beach after your meal and enjoy the beauty of the sunset or night sky - truly the perfect end to your day.

Go spelunking.

The islands of Halong Bay feature some of the most amazing caves in Vietnam. Walk through Sung Sôt or Surprise Grotto (also known as the 'Amazing cave'), which was only recently discovered. This Grotto lives up to its name, being one of the most spectacular and largest grottoes of Ha Long Bay, if not Vietnam. Walk up about a hundred stone steps to reach its aperture, which opens to two chambers. The first is as a wide theatre hall, with many stalactites hanging from the high ceiling. The second is bathed in natural light filtering in from above through a large opening serving, giving the whole chamber an otherworldly appearance. This chamber is so big that it can hold thousands of people! Other caves of interest are the Bo Nau Cave, the Dau Go Cave, and Thien Cung Cave. No matter which you choose to visit, it will surely be an experience you'll always remember.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7151261

Tags: Vietnam, Vietnam walk, Halong Bay

The Mesmerizing Sunrise Over Majestic Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is the largest and also the best-preserved Hindu temple in the world, which is located in Angkor, Cambodia. It is widely considered one of the wonders of the world due to its role as a significant religious center, its exquisite towers as the home of the gods and also its being a national identity as a symbol on Cambodian national flag. It was built using mostly sandstone blocks, based on Khmer classical style, to which has given its name.

At first glance, it is a luxurious blend of tower and sky, a magnificent spellbinding shrine to Vishnu with its enchanting image replicated in the reflective lake below, which is worth feast your eyes on. It is surrounded by a wide moat and enclosed by a laterite wall. There are five surpassing towers representing the heavenly peaks of Mount Meru, the tallest of which was the home of Vishnu. The third gallery is famous for its superb bas-relief of scenes extracted from the Hindu epics. Among them in the eastern section is the Churning of the Ocean of Milk theme. Carved to dramatic glory, it shows the demons and the gods, churning the ocean to produce an elixir of immortality. Those stunning architectures make Angkor Wat one of the most inspired and spectacular monuments ever conceived by the human mind.

The first impression of tourists visiting Angkor Wat will be surprising of the scene of a crowd gathering at the main temple to watch the sun rise over the ancient temples of Angkor in the early morning. Many tourists come here before heading back to town for breakfast. From 7 a.m, you can explore the vast corridors when Angkor Wat is cool and quiet, and you can spend a few hours to enjoy for this uniquely awe-inspiring sight. The pond to the left of the causeway reflects the increasing sunlight behind the towers. You can also watch the dramatic wrestling match with nature, as the clouds are quickly turned from red, purple, and orange to chrome yellow, and then finally embrace the sun with a soft milky layer. This is definitely something you should witness because of its glorious perfection.

You can get there and around by hooking up with a motor driver, as they are native people who can be friendly guides. Otherwise, if you would like to do it on your own, you can opt for bicycles, which are easily rented from local guesthouses, hotels or shops.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7146226

Photographer: MikeBehnken