Ayia Napa

Once a small fishing village in the south-eastern corner of Cyprus, Ayia Napa is now a hotspot for holidaymakers looking for a lively vacation - over 250,000 clubbers swarm into this party capital each summer and the phenomenal atmosphere in its scores of bars and nightclubs is nothing short of explosive. Located in the centre of the market garden area of the island, Ayia Napa also boasts a string of superb golden sandy beaches and vestiges of its cultural heritage - there is a Venetian decorated monastery fronted by a 600-year-old Sycamore tree, and a quaint harbour filled with colourful fishing vessels. Just a few miles from Ayia Napa, the resort of Protaras is more restrained and is much more suited to family holidays. Both resorts have excellent beaches, the most famous being Fig Tree Bay. Other popular beaches include Nissi Beach and Nissi Bay, two miles (3km) west of Ayia Napa; Cape Greco to the east, where the challenge is to leap from the rocks into the sea; and Konnos Bay, just past Cape Greco, where there is a beach café and speedboats for hire. Shopping in Ayia Napa is pure pleasure for locals and holidaymakers alike, with real bargains to be had particularly on designer goods. Top name watches, sunglasses, clothing, cameras and jewellery are available at prices up to 30 percent cheaper than in the United Kingdom. Shops and boutiques are generally small and friendly, opening until 11pm every night except Sundays. The local handcrafts make for good souvenir shopping, including beautiful embroidered Lefkara lace, original ceramic pottery, artistic silver jewellery, baskets, woven and silk goods and high quality leatherwear. Major credit cards are accepted everywhere. Variety is the spice of dining out in Ayia Napa, where countless restaurants specialise in a host of cuisines from around the world, everything from the romantic and traditional, to fast food and pub-grub being on offer, holidaymakers won't be disappointed. Whether it is a Big Mac, fish 'n chips, a Chinese or formal French you fancy, you won't have to go far to find it. Visitors are well advised to try the Cypriot fare, however, particularly in the delightful, traditional tavernas clustered around the harbour. Highly recommended is the typical Cypriot 'meze', made up of between 15 and 30 island dishes. Other local specialities include taramosalata, tsatsiki, moussaka, stifado (beef or veal stew), aphelia (pork and red wine), and loukoumades (doughnuts dipped in syrup). Holidaymakers in Ayia Napa soon learn that it is essential to plan an afternoon siesta, if they are to make the most of the sensational nightlife for which the resort has become world-renowned. The Cypriot's appreciation for the good life and good times comes to the fore after the sun sets, with bars, discos, nightclubs and bouzouki clubs open well into the early hours of the morning. Most hotels have their own nightly entertainment with a resident band, and Greek nights with folk dancing are offered. The resort's clubbing scene is legendary with big name DJ's appearing frequently at some of the popular clubs.

The extensive, silvery sandy beaches along the coast of Ayia Napa are washed with warm waters that provide a myriad of opportunities for watersports, including water-skiing, windsurfing, sailing, canoeing, pedal boats, motor boats, parasailing, scuba diving and snorkelling. The Cyprus Tourism Organisation supervises the beaches, many of which have Blue Flag status. Holidaymakers can take excursions from Ayia Napa to places like Agia Thekla, four miles (6km) to the west, with a small offshore island, Makronisos Beach, a cluster of three sheltered bays, or to the historical city of Larnaca, 25 miles (40km) along the coast. Jeep safaris around the island itself are popular, with attractions like the Caledonian Falls and the Byzantine Monastery of Kykkos waiting to be explored. The island's position in the Mediterranean also lends itself to making excursions to other countries, even Jerusalem or Cairo, for a night or two of sightseeing.

Generally Ayia Napa is clean, well ordered and favoured by all types of holidaymakers. Those who do not enjoy noise and bright lights, however, are advised to stay clear of the central monastery square area, which is where most of the popular nightclubs are situated. The main clubbing season is between June and September, and during this period the resort is packed with young people from all over Europe. Older holiday makers may prefer to enjoy the resort during the ‘shoulder’ months (April, May, October and November), when the weather is still good, the sea relatively warm, but the tempo quieter. The island can be windy, but the geographic locations of the surrounding beaches means that it is possible to find a sheltered beach even on windy days. Nissi Beach tends to be overcrowded, but there are other beaches within easy reach where it is possible to enjoy peace and quiet.

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Enjoy a city break

Bucharest, Romania The majority of Bucharest’s architecture that you see today is made up of buildings that were constructed during the communist regime. Can you imagine that one-fifth of the city was actually demolished so that the Casa Poporului could be built in its place? Step back in time and visit the Village Museum. It is an interesting outdoor museum with a collection of more than 300 buildings that make up the history of Romania's rural architecture. Here you can see peasant homes, barns, wooden churches and Transylvanian houses that all recreate a village setting. Book your Bucharest hotel online with Gtahotels.com and get the best rates for your Bucharest hotel accommodation http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/bucharest.htm Bern, Switzerland According to legend, Bern was named when its founder, Berchtold, was advised to go on a hunt and to name the town after the first beast caught. The bear has remained the symbol of the capital city ever since. One of the oldest and most charming cities in Europe, its old centre was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the preservation of its cobbled medieval street plan, with many ornate fountains, towers, a massive astronomical clock, and buildings much the same as they have been for the last 500 years. With its relaxed atmosphere, farmers markets and friendly people, it is easy to forget that this is the Swiss capital, an important city of politicians and international meetings. And with its interesting museums, theatres, long-standing monuments and landmarks Bern is a popular base from which to explore the mountains and lakes of the nearby Bernese Oberland. Book your Bern hotel online with Gtahotels.com and get the best rates for your Bern hotel accommodation http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/bern.htm Cannes, France Cannes, one of the best-known cities on the French Riviera. The famous and jet set flock to Cannes especially during the annual Cannes Film Festival. For beach lovers then there is Cannes sandy beach but remember that most of the beach areas are private and you will need to pay for access. The Le Suquet area is an original fishing village that has appealing narrow streets which climb up to the top where you can get a wonderful view of the city. Book your Cannes hotel online with Gtahotels.com and get the best rates for your Cannes hotel accommodation http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/cannes.htm

Billund Legoland

Thank you Anna for telling us about Legoland in Billund

Billund Legoland Legoland is the best place to spend your free time with children. I have to admit that is great place for visiting even if you are a grown up person and wish to have a little bit of entertainment. It can bring you in the world of fantasy and childhood. I have visited this amusement park with my friends and we had a lot of fun.

As far as I am concerned the best attraction in Legoland is roller coaster X-treme racers. The trolleys on the rollercoaster are in the shape of car and every trolley can accommodate 4 people. The rollercoaster has many turns and at one point it is passing through the dark tunnel. You can feel the wind in your hair and your ‘heart in your mouth’ while going down with a full speed. The water attraction that makes your heart beats faster is canoe trip. The trip passes through the wild river which finishes with a fall through the waterfall. Another exciting water attraction is Viking River Splash. You are being taken up in the Viking raft by the water elevator and then you are going down the waterfall. It is an unforgettable adventure into a dangerous river!

Enjoy Legoland and Book your Billund accommodation online and get the best rates for your Billund hotel with Gtahotels. http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/billund.htm

Copenhagen- Christianhavn District

Thanks go to Anna in Customer Care for sharing Copenhagen with us...

The capital city of Denmark is atracting tourist from every corner of the world. Around 30% of the Danish citizens live in Copenhagen or around this metropolitan city. Copenhagen is known from its longest pedestrian street with great shopping places and many tourist atractions. Everybody has heard about Little Mermaid or about Hamlet Castle I would like to recommend soemthing different about Copenhagen: two attractions located in Christianshavn District namely Christiania and Church of our Saviour. Christinia is knows as Freetown Christinia an is very special place. Christiania was established in 1971 when a group of hippies have decided to set their own community in the abandoned military barracks. The community became completely independent from the danish governments. The community is situated in the heart of the city and is mostly known from its art whch is present everywhere in this small district. The distict ic coloreful and lively place and creates great diversity from the other attractions in Copenhagen. When you are going out from Christinia you can see interesting sign above your head which is stating that ‘You are now entering the EU’ Next to the Christinaia there is Church of Our saviour located. The construction of the church was completed in 1696 and it lasted around 14 years. The church was constructed in baroque style which is rather rare style to admire in Denmark. Of course the church presents uniqe altar and magnificent organ from 1968 however the most recommended place to visit is the Tower of Our saviour’s Church. The tower gives great opportunity to admire panoramic view of the Copenhagen.

The spire was constructed in 1752 however it was renovated many times during the centuries. The lenght of the tower is 90 metres and to get to the top you have to climb 400 hundred stairs. Climbing up the tower is a bit of experience and adventure. It can also be a little frightenning. The whole spire is built from oak which during windy water can shake a little. If you manage to survive this adventure and appears on the top you will be rewarded by possibility to admire breathtaking views of Copenhagen and shores od Sweden. Get the best rates when you book your Copenhagen hotels and tours online with Gtahotels. http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/copenhagen.htm http://www.gtahotels.com/activities/productdetails.php/SIC.2916CPH.htm

Bangkok city guide

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand. It’s huge, modern and very Westernized. The city is renowned for its many sights, dining and hotel options, and a vibrant, eclectic nightlife. It has more than 11 million residents. To enjoy Bangkok to the fullest, it pays to know its most tourist-oriented districts and what each one has to offer. Among the most worthwhile places to visit in Bangkok are the following.

Sukhumvit Stretching across Sukhumvit Road, this is the bustling commercial core of Bangkok as you can tell from the elegant malls and hotels. From Siam Square, tourists can take the Skytrain to everywhere else in the city. Silom By day, it’s a formal financial district, but by night, Silom is the premiere party venue in Bangkok. The infamous Patpong quarter is located here. Silom spans the surrounding areas of Silom Road and Sathorn Road. Rattanakosin Known as Old Bangkok, this is where most of Bangkok’s historical sights can be found. It’s also a backpacker’s mecca. Thonburi This is the quiet side of Bangkok and home to offbeat attractions. Phahonyothin It’s known mainly for the Chatuchak Weekend Market and the old Don Muang Airport. Ratchadaphisek This area only recently opened up thanks to the new metro line. Once a tourist arrives in Bangkok, he may shocked by the heat, traffic, and sheer number of people on the streets. Fortunately, the city is more organized that it first appears to be. The people are friendly and the city comes alive with the sight of many colorful flowers and orchids and the smell of tropical fruits from October to February. There is much to be discovered here. Many tourists have found a side of Bangkok that they find addictive. Attractions At first glance, Bangkok seems like an urban jungle that’s difficult to navigate, but there are many hidden treasures in the city. One just has to know where to look. Most of the tourist attractions are on Rattanakosin Island, at the Old City. It is striking to see so many temples in Bangkok, a fact that illustrates the deep religious fervor of the locals. Given that, it’s equally surprising to discover how naughty the city’s nightlife can be. The following are some of the most popular attractions in Bangkok. Wat Arun The Temple of Dawn is located at Th Arun Amarin, Thonburi and overlooks the river like a huge, imposing sentinel. It is one of Bangkok’s most popular temples and an architectural wonder comparable to today’s modern skyscrapers. Dating back to the 18th century, the temple signaled the re-emergence of Bangkok after the Burmese invasion. Wat Phra Kaew The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is one of Bangkok’s most unique architectural structures. Built in 1882, it is a gleaming, gilded building with beautiful marble pillars and a shiny orange and green roof. But the Emerald Buddha itself is hard to see. It stands only 25 inches tall and is positioned high above the main temple building. It’s as if the Buddhists are saying that what is essential is often obscured by what is shiny and colorful. Grand Palace Right next to the temple is the Grand Palace where the monarch of Thailand used to reside. The most prominent of the palace buildings is the Grand Palace Hall, built by British architects in 1882 with a strong Italian Renaissance flavor. It is located at Th Na Phra Lan, Ko Ratanakosin Wat Pho Built in the 16th century, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha is one of the oldest temples in the city. It also has the biggest collection of Buddha images in the country. Moreover, the temple has the largest reclining Buddha statue in the world. Wat Pho is located at Th Sanam Chai, Ko Ratanakosin. Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall This royal building was commissioned by King Chulalongkorn, the first ruler of Thailand to visit Europe. As such, the throne hall has a strong Western influence. Since this is royal property, visitors should dress modestly – shorts, minis-skirts and sleeveless shirts are not allowed. It’s located at Th Ratchawithi, Dusit. Lumpini Park Located at the busy corners of Rama IV and Ratchadamri streets in downtown Bangkok, Lumpini Park always seems to be buzzing with activity. You can tell you’ve found the park when you see the statue of King Rama VI in front. The locals enjoy strolling, jogging, picnicking and doing martial arts here from the crack of dawn until the sun goes down. People sit at the gazebos and sitting areas or feed the pigeons and koi. They can also rent a paddle boat to go around the pond. The park’s lush green gardens are a welcome contrast to Bangkok’s steel and concrete façade. Jim Thompson's House Jim Thompson is the American businessman who is credited with the popularity of Thai silk around the world. An architect by trade, Thompson reassembled parts of old Thai homes to build his house. From the outside, it looks like typical Thai architecture until you go indoors and realize the exteriors of the old houses are now inside. Tourists can also view Thompson’s small but impressive collection of Asian art. The house now has a plush bar where live jazz music is performed regularly. Jim Thompson’s house is located at Soi Kasem San 2, Th Phra Ram I, Siam Square Dining After only a few h ours in Bangkok, tourists will be surprised by the wide variety of places to eat. The city has many notable Thai and world-class international restaurants. Perhaps the best thing about Bangkok's restaurants is that the food is delicious but very cheap compared to other cities. The following are some of the best restaurants in Bangkok. 100 Ratchadamri A place for the blue-bloods, 100 Ratchadamri is located on the complex of the Royal Bangkok Sports Club. It specializes in Thai and Italian cuisine. The house specialty is deep-fried crab with a pomelo salad. The dining area is outdoors, facing the lush club grounds. As its name indicates, this restaurant is located at 100 Th Ratchadamri, Pathumwan. Ban Glang Nam Located at 288 Soi 14, Th Phra Ram III, Greater Bangkok, this traditional Thai restaurant provides a soothing riverside view. The kitchen specializes in seafood dishes cooked the Thai way. Their spicy shrimp soup is a hit among expatriates. There are other riverside restaurants in the area but none have the same old-fashioned charm. Bed Supperclub One of the most popular international restaurants in Bangkok, Bed specializes in European and American dishes but also has a Thai menu. It has a unique setting: diners eat on beds rather than tables. In keeping with its futuristic theme, the restaurant projects art films throughout the day. Bed is located at 26 Soi 11, Th Sukhuvmit, Sukhumvit. D'sens This elegant French restaurant is at the top of Dusit Thani, overlooking Lumpini Park. It’s the brainchild of the Pourcel twins, Jacques and Laurent, the men behind the Le Jadrin de Sens in Montpellier, France. D'sens conjures images of the south of France and serves outstanding French cuisine and French wine. It’s located at 946 Th Phra Ram IV, Lumpini. Somboon Seafood Located at 169/7-11 Th Surawong, Silom, Somboon Seafood is one of the most popular Chinese restaurants in Bangkok. They are renowned for their authentic Chinese cuisine, especially seafood dishes featuring crabs and fish. The Somboon crab curry is famous all over town. Make sure that you book ahead for reservations. Bars and Nightlife The nightlife of Bangkok is notorious for being wild but things have quieted down in recent years. For one thing, all bars and clubs are required to shut down by 1 a.m., which is why locals have learned to start partying early. Smoking has also be banned in all air-conditioned bars, clubs and restaurants. Police occasionally raid bars, both high-end and sleazy, to check for full nudity (not allowed) and to administer drug tests on all the guests. For sheer variety and novelty, Bangkok’s assortment of clubs, bars and discos are comparable to any other city. One of the city’s staples is its go-go bars, where dozens of women dance on stage in bikinis. Most bar girls aspire to meet wealthy foreigners. Prostitution is illegal, but it exists. The following are some of the most popular bars and clubs in Bangkok. Moon Bar at Vertigo Located at the 59th floor of the Vertigo building, guests have a breath-taking view of the city’s traffic far below. On weekends, the Moon Bar is filled early by people who want to get the best seats and watch the distant sun set while sipping their drinks. The Moon Bar is located at 21/100 Th Sathon Tai, Silom. Lucifer The crowds at this club and disco can get pretty wild, proving that this is indeed the place for sinners. A young hip crowd sways to electronic music on the dance floor, especially once the DJ starts blasting hard-core techno. Lucifer is right at the heart of famous Patpong, at Soi Patpong 1, Th Silom. Diplomat Bar Located at 87 Th Withayu, Pratunam, this is the hangout of the beautiful people, including Bangkok’s models, moguls and young celebrities. It’s a very hip and well-dressed crowd so wear your best party clothes to fit in. The Diplomat Bar is a temple to conspicuous consumption. If the mood to dance hits you, Club 87 is right next door. Getting to and Around Bangkok Bangkok has two airports but all international passengers arrive at the Suvarnabhumi Airport, the biggest airport in Southeast Asia, which is pronounced as "soo-wanna-poom." Most tourists prefer to travel from the airport to the city center either by limousine taxi or public taxi because they’re the most convenient and comfortable options available and don’t cost that much. Limousine taxis cost around 800 baht to Sukhumvit while a taxi costs 400 baht. Both take 50-60 minutes to reach the city. There are plenty of people who offer tourists taxi rides at the terminal but don’t pay them any mind. They will charge you twice as much as the regular taxi. Instead, head to the second floor and look for the “public taxi” sign. Airport buses are available until midnight and charge a flat rate of 150 baht on any of the four routes to the city center. Each trip takes between 60 to 90 minutes. There are also public buses and minivans that ply the airport route, but they can take as much as two hours to get to the city center and are not worth the hassle. Once in the city, the bus, metro and Skytrain are three of the most common ways for getting around. The bus may not be advisable for new visitors to Bangkok because they take a rather circuitous route around the city. The metro may be a bit confusing as well with its many routes. On the other hand, the Skytrain is another thing altogether. Try to take a trip on the Skytrain if only to get a feel for its space age allure. There are clear-cut directions in maps available at all Skytrain stops. Most tourists take a taxi to travel around Bangkok. The fare is usually around 100 baht or less anywhere in the city, and that already includes the 35 baht meter charge. All taxis here are air-conditioned. If you're traveling a short distance, why not try the local tuk-tuk, a three-wheeled vehicle that is alternately loved and hated by the citizens of the city. Walking is also a fine option. Festivals and Events There always seems to be a cultural or religious event or festival taking place in Bangkok, especially from November to February. The following are among the most popular of these events and festivals. Coronation Day One of the most awaited days is May 5, Coronation Day, commemorating the 1946 coronation of His Majesty the King, because it’s a chance for people to get a glimpse of the royal couple. King’s Birthday December 5, the King’s Birthday, is another festive events that inspires some locals to turn their homes or businesses into temporary shrines. That Phanom Festival Held in January or February, this 10-day festival honors Phra That Phanom, a sacred Buddhist stupa. Devotees from all around Thailand and Laos undertake a pilgrimage to Nakhon Phanom Province. Bangkok International Film Festival In February, the Bangkok Film Festival attracts films from around Asia, Europe and North America. The Golden Kinnaree is awarded to excellent films in several categories. Chiang Mai Flower Festival Held in January and February, this festival is celebrated with colorful parades and floats decorated lavishly with all kinds of flowers. Chinese New Year As with any country with a large Chinese community, Bangkok celebrates the Chinese New Year with great fanfare in February by lighting fireworks, staging lion dances and cleaning the house. Bun Phra Wet Festival To reenact a Buddhist legend, people dress as spirits and go around town with wooden swords. According to legend, spirits welcomed the Buddha-to-be when he entered his hometown. Its held every June. Rocket Festival During this June festival, farmers shoot bamboo rockets into the evening sky so that rain blesses their rice fields. Kathin It’s held in November to mark the end of the Buddhist holy season and celebrated with boat races that draw the crowds. Surin Annual Elephant Roundup During the third weekend of November, tourists never fail to cheer on the biggest elephant gathering in Thailand. Their numbers are amazing.

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Barcelona city guide

Welcome to Barcelona, one of the most stylish and elegant cities in the world From the art collections of Picasso to the eccentric architecture of Antoni Gaudi, Barcelona’s unique sense of style is evident everywhere: art, architecture, fashion and entertainment. And at night, Barcelona transforms into a premier party town, where people party everywhere until the wee hours of the morning, especially during summer. The people of Barcelona are a fun loving bunch, exuberant and creative, always full of good cheer and neighborly warmth. There are around 1.6 million residents in Barcelona, the second largest city in Spain, and 3.1 million in the Metropolitan Area. Flanked by the rivers of Besos and Llobregat, Barcelona is a thriving economic center. Its famous ports and the bustling Barcelona International Airport host a parade of human traffic and various goods all day long. Meanwhile, tourists know Barcelona more for its cultural heritage, amazing sights, seven beaches and 68 municipal parks Barcelona’s history underscores its prominence during past civilizations as the capital city of the Crown of Aragon and the Counts of Barcelona. It was founded as a Roman city and historical battles were waged for its control. Today, Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia, an Autonomous Community of the Kingdom of Spain and one of 17 regions that compose Spain. It is the seat of the Catalan government: the executive branch, parliament and Supreme Court. It is also the capital of Barcelonès county. The most prominent and interesting quarters in Barcelona are Ciutat Vella, the oldest town in the city with Medieval roots; Eixample, Modernist in every sense, including its buildings; the gentrified Gràcia; and Barceloneta, a tourist haven of beaches, restaurants, bars and cafes. Barcelona has been one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations for the last decade. Its busiest time is August and September when some shop owners actually close shop and go on vacation to avoid the maddening throng of tourists. Despite the crowds, foreign visitors are more than glad to visit stylish and elegant Barcelona. Attractions Architecture The first thing that strikes a tourist about Barcelona is its amazing architecture, which cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Much of the credit for the city’s dazzling architectural landscape goes to two architects, Antoni Gaudi and Lluis Domenech y Montaner. Between them, they account for nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Casa Mila, Crypt in Colonia Guell, Palau de la Musica Catalana, Park Guell and Sagrada Familia. Football Anybody who loves football should visit Camp Nou, a veritable European football “cathedral” and home ground of FC Barcelona, the city’s number one team and a European football powerhouse. The arena can accommodate nearly 100,000 people, all of whom scream and stomp when their favorite team is in action. When Franco reigned, FC Barcelona was one of the few ways the people of Catalana could express their anger for the dictatorship, which is one reason why the team is so beloved. La Rambla Barcelona’s most famous boulevard is the perfect place to soak in the city’s culture. As the saying goes, if you sit here long enough, you will see all of Barcelona pass you by. Tourists pack La Rambla during the day to enjoy the sights, meander around the pet stalls or delight in the street performers. At night, the locals are out in droves. If you’re on La Rambla when FC Barcelona wins, especially against hated rivals Real Madrid, you will be treated to the fantastic sight of an entire city rejoicing. La Plaça Reial Sitting right beside La Rambla, La Plaça Reial is renowned as one of the most beautiful squares everywhere. Its charm is enhanced by streetlights designed by Gaudi. Parks Spanning an amazing 203 hectares and located on a mountain, Monjuic Park is the largest park in Barcelona. However, it’s the second largest park that really captures the fancy of tourists, Ciutadella Park, with its zoo, many museums, an old military citadel and the Parliament building. Oreneta Castle Park and Diagonal Mar Park are also can’t-miss destinations. Children will enjoy the Labyrinth Park, with its dizzying garden maze. Museums The Archeological Museum in Santa Madrona boasts of artifacts dating back to the 7th century. The Frederic Mares Museum displays a wide array of Spanish scriptures and artworks from the Middle Ages, including masterpieces of the Virgin Mary and the crucifix. As its name indicates, the Picasso Museum displays nothing but Picasso's paintings and his scope is amazing. The Wax Museums features over 300 famous and life-like figures. Sports buffs will adore the Sports Museum in Buenos Aires while FC Barcelona fans will consider the Museo del Futbol Club de Barcelona as a worthy shrine to their beloved team. Olympic Port Not sure what you want to do tonight? Head to the Olympic Port where you'll find countless bars, pubs, restaurants and other types of entertainment. The Olympic Port is one of the biggest reasons why the night is always alive in Barcelona. Tibidabo According to legend, this is where the devil tried to offer Jesus Christ the world in exchange for His allegiance. Located in the mountains, Tibidabo may not provide a view of the world, but it certainly gives tourists a dazzling view of Barcelona from a vantage point of over 500 meters high. Make sure you take the metro to Tibidabo Station and the Funicular to reach the top of the mountain. Otherwise, you’ll have to walk an entire day to enjoy the view. Montjuic Castle If you want a panoramic view of the city, another excellent place to visit is Montjuic Castle, a fortress built during the 17th century. The view is absolutely breath-taking. Montjuic also hosts some of Barcelona’s most popular parks and gardens. L'Aquarium This is Europe's second biggest aquarium where fishes, penguins and even sharks number in the thousands. Visitors can walk through a long "tube" made of glass and feel like they are in the water with the sharks and other fish. The tube is something that even Europe's biggest aquarium in Genoa doesn't have. Dining Food in Barcelona has a tendency to be inconsistent, and where you eat matters a great deal. Here's a tip: follow the locals and patronize the restaurants and cafes that they frequent. You can’t go wrong. Restaurants typically have a menu of the day (menu del dia) consisting of a simple two-course meal, with three or four options. Keep an eye out for lunch specials from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. which serve food at a fraction of the price. The hours between 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Barcelona are usually for siesta time, and most of the restaurants and cafes are closed. However, there are a few good restaurants that stay open, such as Origen, Udon and international food chains. Here’s a rundown of some of the best restaurants in the city: Alkimia Located at Carrer Industria 78, Alkimia is a winner of the Michelin Star for excellence in dining. It specializes in Catalan cooking and seafood dominates the menu. Interiors are simple and all-white to draw more attention to the food. Operated by acclaimed restaurateur Jordi Vila, Alkimia is one of Barcelona’s best restaurants. Gaig Here’s another Michelin Star winner. Food connoisseurs say Gaig has the freshest produce in the city. That’s easy to believe, especially once you see the chickens in the patio freely walking about. Located at Arago 214, Gaig also specializes in Catalan cuisine. In contrast to Alkimia’s simple decor, Gaig’s interiors are a contemporary red and black. Circ Sentits In 2004, Conde Nast Traveler named this restaurant among the “80 Hottest New Restaurants in the World,” and Circ Sentits is living up to that lofty billing. The specialty is also Catalan cuisine, but served with a wine pairing. It is located at Aribau 58. Casa Leopolodo This is the place where pork lovers should dine. They have everything from pork stew to hoof of pork. For variety, Casa Leopoldo also has fish and seafood dishes, including its famous Norway lobsters. It is located at Sant Rafael 24. Bars and Nightlife Barcelona's pubs, bars, nightclubs and discos are constantly buzzing with the live sound of salsa, rock, jazz and flamenco. Here are some recommendations to make the wandering tourist feel right at home. Catwalk This is one of the hottest nightclubs in the city. Catwalk attracts such a crowd that they need every inch of their two dance floors. Dance the night away to R&B and hip-hop as well as Techno music. Things don’t really heat up until 2 a.m. Fonfone Located on Escudellers 24, Fonfone features all-night dancing to the hot beats of electronic music as the multi-colored tiled walls flash non-stop. The interiors are hip and modern. Fonfone also boasts of a well-stocked bar. La Paloma If you’re the type who enjoys gyrating with the young and beautiful crowd, La Paloma is your night club of choice. Located at Tigre 27, this place really begins to heat up at 2 a.m. The dance floor is packed and the party doesn’t stop until 5 a.m. Maumau Meanwhile, if your idea of a night on the town is chilling out at a lounge bar as slow, relaxing music fills the air, Maumau is the place. They regularly host live concerts and short film nights. Sutton Sutton has one of the largest dance floors around as well as two VIP rooms for its hip guests. There’s also a small stage where only the best dancers venture to show off their skills. Thursday is Studio 54 night. The rest of the week features a steady diet of House music. This is a must-visit for lovers of Techno. Chupitos The name says it all: chupitos means “shots” and that’s the specialty of this club. There are hundreds of different types of shots available, including the “Harry Potter,” which is sprinkled with cinnamon. You’ve probably never seen so many shot-happy people all in one place. And don’t worry about staring. Watching other people enjoy their shots is all part of the show. Getting to and Around Barcelona The Barcelona International Airport, known locally as "El Prat," services flights from Europe and beyond. It’s a mere 10 kms away from the center of Barcelona. Taxis are always available but they can be expensive. Instead, you can take the RENFE suburban train, which leaves the airport every 30 minutes and takes 20 to 30 minutes to get to the city center. Tickets cost around €2.20. There’s also the Aerobus A1 line, which departs from the airport every five to 10 minutes. All its buses are air-conditioned and the fare to the city center is just €4.05. However, the Aerobus is only available until midnight. Once in Barcelona, tourists have many options for traveling around the city. One of the most convenient is the Bus Turistic, which connects to dozens of different tourists attractions. They have northbound and southbound routes. A whole-day ticket costs around €20 while a ticket for two consecutive days is around €26. You may want to consider taking the metro around the city. Tickets are €1.30 for a single trip and €7.30 for 10 rides. There’s also a 50-ride ticket worth €27.55 that’s good for a month. Heading to Tribidabo provides tourists with the opportunity for more exotic types of transport: the Tramvia Blau and Funicular. Tramvia Blau is an old tram dating back to the early 20th century which takes passengers to the foot of Tribidabo mountain. Funicular is another tram that takes passengers to the mountain top. Traveling around Barcelona on a bicycle is a popular way to see the city. There are many places where you can rent a bike such as Barceloneta Bikes near the harbor and Budget Bikes, which has several outlets scattered around. You can also rent a bike from Fat Tire Bike Tours or try out their tour for €22. Renting a car is naturally another option, but parking can be costly at €1.5 to €2.5 per hour. Moreover, driving around the city can be complicated as many of the roads are one-way. It's essential to have a driving map on hand. Festivals and Events Barcelona has year-round wild occasions filled with drinking, dancing and dressing to the nines, especially during the 15 official holidays of the year. Here are some of Barcelona’s leading festivals. Fiesta de San Antonio Abad Naturally, a year of fiestas begins with New Year's Day and is quickly followed by Fiesta de San Antonio Abad on January 17. This occasion is celebrated all over Spain with partying in front of bonfires, especially during the Saturday closest to the 17th. Las Fallas This major festival is celebrated from March 12 to 19. Families make paper mache dolls of Shrek, George W. Bush and other famous figures then parade them all over town and burn them in bonfires at the end of the day. All the while, music is playing and people are drinking and dancing. If you haven’t seen bonfires as big as buildings, just wait for the last day of Las Fallas. It looks like the whole city is on fire. La Diada de Sant Jordi On April 23, Barcelona celebrates this Valentine's Day of sorts and also commemorates the deaths of William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes, who passed away on the same day. It’s a special day for lovers and, naturally, party time for everyone else. Festes de la Merce This is one of Barcelona's biggest yearly festivals featuring fireworks, live music, processions with wooden giants and a popular contest on who can create the tallest human tower. It's also a day for drinking lots of Cava, Catalonia's national drink. Festes de Gràcia On August 15, Barcelona commemorates the Assumption with a week of fiestas and fireworks. It's an important Catholic occasion and the people of Barcelona celebrate it appropriately. Fira de Santa Llúcia This three-week celebration unfolds from December 2 to 23 and revolves around the feast day of Santa Llucia on December 13. Since Santa Llucia is the patron saint of fashion designers, the day features colorful costumes and floats. It's a favorite day of the gay community.

Popular resorts in Turkey

Turkey is one of the most popular destinations this year as more and more holiday makers choose to flock to countries whose currency is non €

Lets have a look at the most popular holiday destinations in Turkey. Its easy to get a cheap flight to these destinations from the UK with airlines such as easyjet, Ryanair, Thomas cook airlines to name just a few...

Antalya is the main tourist area of Turkey and thousands flock here in the summer months. As well as its beaches, nightclubs and bars, the area has plenty of historical attractions including Aspendos, one of the most important Pamphilian cities and Olympos, an ancient Lycian city. Well worth taking is a trip inland to DimÇay or Manavgat where you can go rafting, swim or even eat fresh trout in the river!

http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/antalya.htm

While the town of Bodrum does not have a beach so to speak, sandy beaches can be found at Gumbet, Yalikavak and Bitez. Bodrum town offers plenty of shopping opportunities and the nights come alive with bars and clubs. Boat trips can be taken along the coast and to the nearby Greek island of Kos

http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/bodrum.htm

Marmaris, a popular resort and its easy to see why, with its numerous bars and clubs it’s a night owls paradise. Days can be spent on the long narrow sandy beach, or you can take the local dolmus or boat to the nearby resort of Içmiler for a change of scenery

http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/marmaris.htm

Kemer attracts thousands of tourists during the summer months with its sandy beaches, shopping and nightclubs. From Kemer you can take one of the many boat trips that are on offer, these will take you along the coast or you can also visit the Olympos village

http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/kemer.htm

Make your £ go further and enjoy a cheap holiday in Turkey this year

Earls Court

Earls Court is home to the Earls Court Exhibition Centre which is one of the most popular venues for concerts and events. If you plan on attending a event or concert at Earls Court then its best that you book a London hotel in or near to Earls Court well in advance. Earls Court has many art galleries such as Zest Gallery which is just 358 meters from Earls Court Exhibition Centre and Irish Contemporary Art Gallery which is 897 meters away. There are plenty of shopping opportunities in Earls Court and these include the Kings Walk Shopping Centre, Duke of York Square and Fulham Broadway Retail Centre. Earls Court’s nightlife is very lively with plenty of typical London pubs. Many of these show sports on wide screen televisions so you can keep up to date with what’s going on in the sporting world If you want to book a hotel in or near to Earls Court then its worth knowing that Earls Court has two underground or Tube stations so its very easy to get around and visit other parts of London. Earls Court and West Brompton Underground stations There are many hotels close to Earls Court and these can be very popular. One thing to remember when you book your London hotel is that most London hotels are converted Victorian townhouses so guest rooms are small and may come as a shock to visitors from some countries. Enjoy Earls Court and enjoy your London hotel - Get the best rates when you book your Earls Court hotel online with Gtahotels Fast facts for Earls Court; There are plenty of popular pubs on the Old Brompton Road Earls Court is 5km from Charring Cross 500 years ago Earls Court was no more than open fields and greenery

Paradise in the Philippines

Thanks to Joshua for this picture of a beach in the Philippines. Looks absolutely stunning and makes one just want to jump in the clear blue sea. As soon as I have an update as to where this picture was taken I will update this post....... Joshua, one of our shift supervisors in Manila

Short breaks in Europe

Bilbao, Once best known for its shipyards and industry has turned itself around and re-invented itself as a popular short break destination. Visitors will not fail to be amazed by the Guggenheim Museum. This ultra modern and contemporary art museum is built alongside the Nervion River, which runs through the city. From the ultra modern museum don’t forget to take time to explore the Casco Viejo (old city) and visit the oldest building in the city, the 15th century cathedral of Santiago http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/bilbao.htm

While the town of Bodrum does not have a beach so to speak, sandy beaches can be found at Gumbet, Yalikavak and Bitez. Bodrum town offers plenty of shopping opportunities and the nights come alive with bars and clubs. Boat trips can be taken along the coast and to the nearby Greek island of Kos. Get the best rates for Bodrum hotels when you book your Bodrum accommodation with Gtahotels.com. At less than 4 hours flying time from London, Bodrum is a great choice to beat those winter blues and head for the blue skies!

http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/bodrum.htm

Short breaks in the United Kingdom

Aberdeen, Nicknamed Granite or Silver city. Visitors will notice that the buildings seem to sparkle in the sun.A historical, cosmopolitan city by the sea with excellent restaurants and cultural attractions. For night birds we must not forget the pulsating nightlife. From Aberdeen you can visit Balmoral at 50 miles away. All in all this makes Aberdeen a great choice for a city break. Book your Aberdeen hotel online and be sure of getting the best rates for your Aberdeen accommodation

http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/aberdeen.htm

Birmingham, the UK’s second largest city and great for a short break. One of the more popular attractions is the Birmingham Botanical Garden & Glasshouse. Here you will find Fifteen acres of beautiful gardens including glasshouses containing more exotic flora.For shopping then you need to head to the truly unique Bull Ring which stands on the site of the city’s oldest market and houses over 180 shops and restaurants. Night birds are not forgotten in the cities many bars and clubs. Get the best rates for Birmingham hotels when you book your Birmingham accommodation with Gtahotels.com

http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/birmingham.htm

Inverness, Capital of the Scottish Highlands. Apart from Loch Ness all of the sights are easily reached by foot. Take a boat cruise on Loch Ness and of course visit the Loch Ness exhibition centre and decide for yourself if Nesse really is fact or fiction.

http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/inverness.htm

Customer Care @ Gtahotels

What is customer care? handling complaints? Trying to pick up the pieces after a mishap? Helping a client who is unable to travel? Yes, customer care is all this and more. Infact every company should welcome complaints to their customer care department in order to prevent complaints and monitor their services and make improvements along the way. Effective complaint handling We at Gtahotels.com welcome complaints in order to prevent them. We aim to resolve and preventing similar complaints. We make our complaints form easy accessible to our clients and it is easy for them to fill in. We aim to resolve every complaint issue within 20 working days though please bear in mind that often we have to go through a third party and wait for their response. If you have a complaint that can be dealt with at the hotel, don't be shy just ask for assistance from the reception. Generally hotels will go out of their way to resolve any complaints or problems for their guests on the spot. If the air conditioning at the hotel isn't working for example- Don't wait till you get home before you decide to file a complaint....Report the problem to the hotel because its more than likely that they are not aware of the problem and will be more than happy to fix it. Customer Feedback Customer feedback is always welcomed and this helps us at Gtahotels to make changes and improvements. We always appreciate customers who let us have their feedback - We really do listen! Caroline Customer Care manager Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/GtahotelsCare

Soho

Soho sits right in the centre of the West End of London. Soho covers an area of about one mile. You can walk through Soho from Oxford Street which is one of Soho’s original boundaries.

Soho was once famous for its sex shops and sex industry which had been running in the area for the past 200 years! But since the 1980s Soho underwent a complete transformation and instead of a no go area for most visitors to London, Soho is now the place to be seen and is a fashionable and upmarket area. In the West of Soho there is a small remnant of times past and a few sex shops still operate. Soho has been famous since the nineteen forties for its music scene starting with Club Eleven on Windmill Street and Cy Laurie jazz club. Soho was also the setting for the famous song Mack The Knife which was sung by Louis Armstrong in the nineteen fifties. Soho can also claim fame to being home to the first skiffle club in London which was on the first floor of the Roundhouse pub, Wardour Street. More and more clubs and theatres started to open in Soho including the famous Windmill theatre, The Raymond Revue bar and Ronnie Scotts jazz club in Frith Street. The list can go on because Soho was also home to the legendary Marquee club in Wardour Street. The club opened in the late fifties and it was here that the Rolling Stones first performed in 1962. Soho is a super area of London to wander through and it has a unique character all of its own. Book your hotel close to Soho and you will find yourself right in the centre of all the fun and action. Vinyl junkies should head to the areas around Berwick Street where famous shops such as Vinyl junkies and Blackmarket records sell the latest releases and merchandise. Despite its small size, Soho has everything, pubs, bars, restaurants, late night snack bars, a hare Krisna temple close to Soho Square a small Mosque on Berwick Street, Chinatown in Gerrard Street, and even a primary school for local children! There are many hotels close to Soho and these are undoubtedly very popular. One thing to remember when you book your London hotel is that most London hotels are converted Victorian townhouses so guest rooms are small and may come as a shock to visitors from some countries. Whenever you visit London and its famous and historical area of Soho, one thing is for sure....You will get to see London life as it really it, mulcicultural and anything goes! Enjoy Soho and enjoy your London hotel.

Fast facts for Soho

Carnaby Street was in the 1960s the fashion centre of ‘Swinging London’ these days Carnaby Street is a popular shopping area

Berwick Street is home to record shops and a small street market

Gerrard Street is the centre of Chinatown

Wardour was home to the legendary Marquee club

Soho is the centre of the gay scene in London

Bayswater

Bayswater is within the London borough of Westminster. If you book a hotel near Bayswater you can be sure that you will have all that the West end of London has to offer right on your doorstep. It may be interesting for those planning to book a London hotel close to Bayswater to know that most of the hotels in Bayswater are the converted Victorian or Georgian town houses some features of which have been preserved. The famous Whiteleys Shopping centre is in Bayswater and is a haven for those who love shopping. Bayswater is also home to the famous Portobello Road. If you have seen the film Bedknobs and Broomsticks with Angela Lansbury you will have seen Portobello Road and heard the song. Portobello Road is a well known antiques market If you want to book a hotel near Bayswater then its worth knowing that Bayswater has four underground or Tube stations close by so its very easy to get around and visit other parts of London. These are; Bayswater, Lancaster Gate, Queensway and Royal oak Underground stations, Bayswater infact covers Charing Cross and parts of Hyde park and Kensington gardens There are many hotels near to and in Bayswater and these are undoubtedly very popular. One thing to remember when you book your London hotel is that most London hotels are converted Victorian and Georgian townhouses so guest rooms are small and may come as a shock to visitors from some countries. Whenever you visit London and its famous Bayswater area, one thing is for sure....you will do a lot of walking and sightseeing! Enjoy London and enjoy your Bayswater hotel Fast Facts for Bayswater; Bayswater is within walking distance of Hyde Park and Marble Arch Bayswater has one of the highest hotel concentrations in London Bayswater is one of the most cosmopolitan areas of London and Queensway has a huge selection of ethnic restaurants

The classic W Beetle by Caroline

As promised on Twitter, here are a few photographs that were taken at the Koç Museum in Istanbul of the Classic VW Beetle.

This is the car I really really wanna have. Actually we had a couple of VW Beetles when I was a child- Naturally they were named Herbie and were totally reliable and unstoppable.

As the engine of the VW Beetle is in the back, we used to drive with ease in the snowy winter months. Also, as the car has no radiator, there was no chance of over heating and during the Summer I remember as we drove past all the overheating cars of the verge of the motorways

The London Eye

The London Eye is the landmark observation wheel in London. More than 3 million people a year take a ride in the London Eye and get a bird’s eye view of London. If you book a London hotel close to the London Eye you can be sure to see all that London has to offer very easily. If you decide to stay at a London hotel close to the London Eye then you will have the chance to walk around places which have become famous from the cinema. The London Eye can be seen in various films such as Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix and Fantastic Four Rise of the Silver Surfer. You will get the greatest panorama of London from the London Eye so don’t forget your camera. The pods of the London Eye are all sealed and air conditioned, so it’s a very comfortable way to enjoy the scenery even if it is raining outside! The London Eye is also adjacent to the Jubilee Gardens, which makes its location even more advantageous. Every New Year the London Eye is the main point for London’s New Year celebrations and there is always a memorable 10 minute firework display from the London Eye. If you want to book a hotel close to the London Eye then its worth knowing that this area of the South bank has two underground or Tube stations so its very easy to get around and visit other parts of London; Waterloo and Westminister underground stations There are many hotels close to the London Eye and these are undoubtedly very popular. One thing to remember when you book your London hotel is that most London hotels are converted Victorian townhouses so guest rooms are small and may come as a shock to visitors from some countries. Enjoy the London Eye and enjoy your London hotel! Fast Facts: With a height of 135 meters, the London Eye or the Millennium wheel as it has also been known is the tallest observation wheel in Europe and is the main attraction for visitors to London. During the 2012 Summer Olympics which are to be held in London, the Olympic emblem will be attached to the London Eye. It will be unforgettable to see the emblem rotating on a giant Ferris wheel. British Airways sponsor the London Eye it so when you get in and of your pod they make an announcement like they do when you are on an airplane! Before you get off the pod you will have your picture take by one of the observation cameras so you should give a good pose! You can buy your photograph from the shop the flight. The queues can be quite long, but they are well organized. You can buy combined tickets with Madame Tussauds.

You can pre book your London Eye visit as well as a Thames River sightseeing cruise online

http://www.gtahotels.com/activities/productdetails.php/SIC.3542BALE.htm

Paddington Station

Paddington Station is home to the Underground and National Rail. There are a number of hotels near to Paddington Station and these provide a convenient base from which to explore the rest of London. Paddington Station was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and first opened in 1854. The site of Paddington Station is a historic one in that it was, before 1854 the London station for the Great Western Railway. Many of the original features of Paddington Station can still be seen today although over the years Paddington station has been extensively extended. Paddington Station has 14 platforms and trains departing from Paddington Station cover long distance services such as Bristol, Gloucester, Bath, the West Country and South Wales destinations. As well as the long distance services Paddington station also serves West London and Heathrow Airport. Paddington Station serves the Heathrow Express link which whisks its passengers from Paddington Station to Heathrow Airport in just 15 minutes. During the peak hours the Express trains run every 15 minutes. If you arrive to London’s Paddington station and want to freshen up, there are showers, toilets and baby changing facilities at the station. If you need to change your currency then there is a Bureau de change and cash machines. Photograph booths can also be found at the station. There are also plenty of shops, bars and restaurants on offer. In 1863 Paddington Station became home to the first underground station in the world. Today Paddington Underground station covers the District, Circle, Bakerloo and Hammersmith & City lines. In 1854 the Great Western Royal Hotel opened on Praed street. The hotel formed part of the Paddington Station complex. The hotel is still open today but is now known as the Hilton London Paddington . The hotel is connected to Paddington Station by a footbridge so getting to and from your destinations couldn't be easier. When choosing your hotel close to Paddington Station, you will be at the centre of some excellent transport options that will enable you not only to see all of London, but also to travel easily to other parts of the United Kingdom. There are many hotels close to Paddington Station and these range from budget to luxury hotels. One thing to remember when you book your London hotel is that most London hotels are converted Victorian townhouses so guest rooms are small and may come as a shock to visitors from some countries. The budget hotels in the Paddington Station area are all converted Victoria houses, charming and comfortable but don't expect large rooms. Fast facts for Paddington Station; The famous children's book character was named after Paddington Station. You will find a statue of Paddington Bear at the station and there is also a shop full of Paddington Bear goodies. A popular haunt for Children and adults who grew up reading the antics of Paddington bear! Paddington Station is just 15 minutes away from Heathrow Airport by the Heathrow Express Paddington Station was first opened in 1854 and is one of the busiest rail terminals in London Hotels close to Paddington station include the Hilton London Paddington Hotel http://www.gtahotels.com/hotels/hilton_london_paddington_hotel.htm?

Oxford Street

Oxford Street in London is one of the most popular streets for shopaholics. If you plan on spending some time shopping then its best that you book a London hotel near to Oxford street so that you don’t have far to carry your newly purchased items! Oxford street is popular with locals and visitors alike because it is not an expensive street for shopping. Nor is it full of designer shops which come complete with huge price tags. Instead you will find all the affordable high street brands and department stores. Best of all, there are a number of flagship stores so you can be sure of getting the best choice of goods and in the most modern surroundings. The Flagships also have some great promotions and sometimes celebrity appearances. Top Shop have their flagship store on Oxford Street, its close to Oxford Street underground station so really cant be missed! Its a huge store on more than 3 levels and includes cafes, music videos, often live entertainment and an enormous selection of clothes and accessories. Oxford Street is not all about shopping and walking! If your boots haven't been made for walking then you can take a rest in one of the many restaurants and fast food outlets that line Oxford Street from Marble Arch to Tottenham Court road. As well as Shops and restaurants there are also large internet cafes that cover 3 floors so there is no excuse not to keep in touch! If you visit London in December and want to stay close to Oxford street, do book your hotel early because the city is always busy in the run up to Christmas. Oxford Street is always decorated with Christmas lights from mid November to the beginning of January and the lights are always switched on by a celebrity . In 1996 the Spice girls had the honour of switching the Oxford Street lights on and in 2007 singer Leona Lewis pressed the button to light up Oxford Street. If you want to book a hotel near to Oxford Street then its worth knowing that Oxford Street has four underground or Tube stations so its very easy to get around and visit other parts of London. Marble Arch Bond Street Oxford Circus and Tottenham Court Road When choosing your hotel close to Oxford Street, do bear in mind that Oxford Street runs for over a mile and a half which is approximately two and a half km There are many hotels close to Oxford Street and these are undoubtedly very popular. One thing to remember when you book your London hotel is that most London hotels are converted Victorian townhouses so guest rooms are small and may come as a shock to visitors from some countries. Whenever you visit London and its famous Oxford Street, one thing is for sure....However comfortable your shoes are, your feet will ache from all the walking up and down Oxford Street and at the end of the day all you will want to do is put your feet up with a cup of tea! Enjoy Oxford Street and enjoy your London hotel Fast facts for Oxford Street; Oxford street is the busiest shopping street in Europe Oxford street is over one and a half miles long from end to end which is Tottenham Court road to Marble Arch Every year the famous Oxford Street Christmas lights are switched on by a celebrity and stay on until the 6th of January

Wroclaw

Wroclaw is one of the biggest and most beautiful cities in Poland. It is the capital of Lower Silesia and is located upon the river Odra. Wroclaw is an important academic, economic and cultural place not only for Poland but for the whole Europe. What to see? Market Square In the heart of the Wroclaw the Market Square is located. This is a place where all the tourists and the citizens of Wroclaw come to eat, be entertained and relax. In the market square you can admire the old town hall. The construction of the town hall started in 13th century and today this building represents many architectural styles like Renaissance and Gothic. You can also find here a monument which is known as Pillory and which was used in the past as place of punishment for criminals. The next important place of admiration is the statue of Alexander Fredro who is one of the most well known of the Polish play writers. Ostrow Tumski Ostrow Tumski which is called Cathedral Island is the oldest part of Wroclaw, of course the place that needs to be visited in here is Cathedral. The construction of the cathedral again started in 13th century however through the years the building was reconstructed and renovated many times. The cathedral is named after John the Baptist. Another place worth visiting in the Ostrow Tumski is Church of the Holy Cross. The Cathedral Island is place where you can visit some important monuments of culture and religion. Panorama Raclawicka Panorama Raclawicka is a painting which presents the battle of Raclawice in 1794. What is so interesting about this painting? The painting is in the shape of a revolving hyperboloid and is very large. size : 120m and 15 m. You can admire the painting in the specially constructed building: Rotunda. The building is open every day (except of Monday) from 9 am to 6 pm. Where to find entertainment? Wroclaw has also a great base for entertainment and night life. Of course many good places are located just in the market square for example Zwiazki which is quite nice. The other important place where many pubs are located is Ruska Street near Pasaz Niepolda. Here you can find bars and clubs like Niebo, Metropolis or Bezsennosc. Of course there are many more places to head for when you are in Wroclaw .Everything depends on taste and individual preferences Where to eat? Of course a city like Wroclaw has a great selection of fine restaurants which are offering great food. For the traditional food you can stop by at Karczma Lwowska Restaurant or Kurna Chata. Of course there is also many places that serve international cuisine like Akropolis or La Luz Art bar and Mexican Restaurant. How to get there? It is easy to get to Wroclaw as there is airport situated close to the city. Ryanair is offering a lot of flights from many different cities in Europe. Where to stay? For the selection of the best accommodation and rates visit our webpage: http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/wroclaw.htm

Get the best rates for your Wroclaw hotel when you book your Wroclaw accommodation online

Victoria Station London

Photograph by Petteri Kantokari

Victoria Station is home to the Underground , National Rail and Victoria Coach station. There are a number of hotels close to Victoria station and these provide a convenient base from which to explore the rest of London.

Victoria Station first opened in 1862 and included a 300 bed roomed hotel, the Grosvenor hotel which is still open today and has managed to retain some of its Victorian grandeur over the years. The Grosvenor hotel is in Buckingham Palace road which is adjacent to Victoria Station. Trains departing from Victoria Station through the counties of Kent, Surrey and Sussex which include Gatwick Airport and the Gatwick Express and the popular seaside resort of Brighton. Most trains that depart from Victoria Station stop at Clapham Junction and from here you can connect to trains that travel to the county of Hampshire and other parts of Surrey and Sussex. Clapham Junction is the busiest train station in London because of the number of passengers that alight here merely to board another train and complete their journey. Victoria Station also serves the Venice Simpson Orient Express from platform 2. The Venice Simpson Orient Express is a private luxury train that travels from London to Venice. The train also offers day trips should you want a truly luxurious day out. If you arrive to London’s Victoria station and want to freshen up, there are showers, toilets and baby changing facilities at the station. If you need to change your currency then there is a Bureau de change and cash machines. Photograph booths can also be found at the station. There are also plenty of shops, bars and restaurants on offer. Victoria Station also covers Victoria underground station which serves the District, Circle and Victoria lines. Just two stops from Victoria Underground station on the Victoria line (The blue line) and you will be in Oxford Street. The London Underground or Tube as it is also known is the best way apart from walking to get around London. It’s quick and easy to use but best avoided at the rush hours when commuters are trying to get to and from work. Just outside of Victoria Station in Buckingham Palace Road you will find Victoria Coach Station. It’s very close and well signposted. Victoria Coach Station is the largest coach station in London and it is from here that the long distance coaches depart. The coach station is served well by National Express, Eurolines, Megabus services and Oxford Express which has Wi fi on board. The Oxford Express will take you between London Victoria Station and Oxford in less than one and a half hours. Victoria bus station serves local London buses only. There is also the separate Green Line Coach station for all Green Line buses. Green Line Buses also offer a number of day trips from their Green Line Coach station at Victoria Station including Windsor, Whipsnade Animal Park and London sightseeing tours When choosing your hotel close to Victoria Station, you will be at the centre of some excellent transport options that will enable you not only to see all of London, but also to travel easily to other parts of the United Kingdom. There are many hotels close to Victoria Station and these are undoubtedly very popular. One thing to remember when you book your London hotel is that most London hotels are converted Victorian townhouses so guest rooms are small and may come as a shock to visitors from some countries. Fast facts for Victoria Station; Victoria station is in the London borough of Westminister Victoria station includes a terminal for trains serving Gatwick Airport During the second world war, Victoria station was used to transport soldiers to and from France http://www.gtahotels.com/hotels/grosvenor_hotel_london.htm