Seven Wonders of a Holiday in Egypt

The Seven Wonders of the World, as recorded by the Greek historian Herodotus, were the "see before you die" sights of the Ancient World; the Colossus of Rhodes, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, the Lighthouse of Alexandria, and many other strange and wonderful sights. Today, they are all destroyed except for one - the Great Pyramid of Giza.

Since it lays claim to the only remaining Wonder and it remains the number one destination for holidays in North Africa, it only seems appropriate to list the seven present day wonders of a holiday to Egypt, from beautiful beaches to sites of amazing historical significance...

The Archaeological Museum at Cairo

In a country that is famed for its archaeological wonders, it is no surprise that Egypt's capital contains one of the finest archaeological museums in the world. Home to over 120,000 ancient artefacts, including the death mask of Tutankhamen and a number of mummies, it is one of the real highlights of a holiday in Egypt.

The Beaches on the Red Sea

Not only is Egypt a place to see ancient sights, it has become renowned as a beach destination. The stunning beaches at Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh are popular with families and couples alike, and the resort hotels are amongst the finest in the country.

Walking Up Mount Sinai

Mount Sinai is steeped in history. Located in the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt, it is believed by many to be the Biblical mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments, it has become a significant pilgrimage site for Christians and Jews. The monastery of St Catherine's at the foot of the mountain contains numerous relics and artefacts, but it is the walk up to the top of the mountain that is the real attraction here. The view from the top offers stunning views out over the monastery and the Sinai desert, and you can even pay a visit to Moses' Cave, where the leader of the Israelites is alleged to have waited for the Commandments to be delivered to him.

Valley of the Kings

This ancient burial ground for the Kings of Egypt, located near Luxor, is one of the most unforgettable sights in North Africa. Holidays here are justly popular, with visitors treated to over sixty ancient tombs, including the famous burial site of Tutankhamen.

Nile Cruise

The Nile is the main artery of Egypt, the fertile source of life in the country which has allowed civilisation to thrive in the midst of a truly inhospitable environment. Most of the main destinations in the country are located along the coast of the Nile, and one of the most enjoyable ways to spend your time on a holiday to Egypt is on a luxury cruise on the Nile.

Diving in the Red Sea

Egypt truly is a scuba divers Mecca, with countless outstanding dive sights around the Red Sea resorts of Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada. Colourful reefs, tropical fish and underground coral caves are just some of the sights to see in this underwater paradise. Recommended dive sites include Soma Bay and Shark Bay (don't worry, the latter dive site doesn't live up to its name!)

The Pyramids at Giza

Of course, the only surviving Wonder has to top the present day list! Perhaps the most famous archaeological sight in the world, these tombs for Pharaohs remain the essential place to visit on a holiday to Egypt. The dramatic Sol et Luminat show, held each night at the Giza Pyramids, remains a firm favourite with many visitors - a stunning sound and light show, narrated by Omar Sharif, it is the perfect way to truly appreciate the last remaining Wonder of the World.

Author : Kieron Sellens

About the Author :

Kieron Sellens is the marketing manager of the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AiTO). With Egypt holidays from AITO, you can tailor-make the dream trip abroad.

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Rochester Minnesota Arts and Entertainment

For a number of years, Rochester, MN has been labeled as one of America's finest cities for newly weds. One of the reasons for this label could be the wide variety of activities that stray from the ordinary dinner and a movie date night. Rochester is home to a variety of art centers and theatres, and offers musical performances throughout the year. The arts and entertainment found in Rochester helps to demonstrate that this is a city that understands the importance of the abstract side of life.
If one is seeking to view an art gallery or museum, there are four popular options to choose from in Rochester:

- Rochester Art Center - Newly remodeled and moved in May 2004, the Art Center is a relatively small center which holds no permanent collections inside. Instead, the center hosts a variety of temporary travelling collections which change throughout the year. Nearby, the outdoor Zumbro Gardens is a terraced park and sculpture lawn which leads down to the edge of the Zumbro River.

- SEMVA Art Gallery - The South East Minnesota Visual Artists Gallery, located in the Peace Plaza in downtown Rochester, offers mainly works from southeastern Minnesota Artists. The variety of works includes pottery, woods, clothing, fabrics, and canvas displays.

- Mayowood Galleries - Fine antiques and gardent accents from 18th and 19th century England can be found at Mayowood Galleries. Two locations are available, at the Mayowood Mansion and downtown Rochester.

- History Center of Olmsted County - For more of a historical display, the History Center offers a Histry Library, a Genealogy Center, as well as a display of the history of Rochester and the surrounding area. The History Center also owns and operates Mayowood Mansion.
After a morning or afternoon of visiting an art gallery or museum, the possibility exists to view a live production at one of the three theatres in Rochester:

- Masque Youth Theatre - The Masque presents a variety of children's plays from October to June. The goal of the Masque is to involve young people in theatre arts, and it successfully does that by using children as actors and providing plays that would interest the child found in everyone.

- Rochester Civic Theatre - A variety of perfomances can be found at the Civic Theatre. The venue offers nine perfomances a year, including dramas, comedies, and musicals. Previous shows have included Fiddler on the Roof and The Adventures of Stuart Little.

- Rochester Repertory Theatre - The Repertory Theatre offers performances of classical and contemporary works by a variety of artists. Some previous shows have included Three Tall Women, The Foreigner and FoxFire.

Rochester's music scene also offers a wide variety of options. Apart from the countless restaurants, bars, and pubs that offer live music free of charge on various nights, there are a few large groups that perform in Rochester throughout the year. These groups are comprised of members of the community, sharing their talents in order to give back to the city they call home. The list below offers a glimpse at the musical choices of Rochester. It is by no means the only groups and performances available.

- Rochester Civic Music - Presented by the City of Rochester, free live music is offered to the community through the "Down By the Riverside" outdoor summer concert series. Artists have included Three Dog Night, Peter Fischer, The Marshall Tucker Band, and many local acts.

- Rochester Symphony Orchestra & Chorale - Jere Lantz, music director and conductor, leads this group's perfomances of a variety of works through the year.

- Rochester Community Band - Offering quarterly performances, and a few additional sumer festivals, the Community band is open to all people, regardless of skill level. The band emphasis lies on using your talents and having fun while performing modern and classic music.

- Chorale Arts Ensemble - This group is dedicated to the creation and performance of new music, and also to the presentation of music from the Renaissance to the 20th century. Forty voices, chosen by audition, make up this choir which performs choral and orchestral masterworks and vocal jazz.

- Southeast Minnesota Youth Orchestra - SEMYO brings middle and high school students together to study music, learn to work and perform together, and to contribute to the cultural life of the community.

- Swing Street - One of the most well known jazz bands in Rochester, Swing Street plays at community events and private functions throughout the year. The group's love of jazz shows with a repertoire that extends from the early days of jazz to modern arrangements.

As evidenced by the list above, Rochester certainly has a wide variety of options when it comes to Arts and Entertainment. Both newly weds and everday-citizens alike can enjoy the countless performances and art galleries offered throughout the year.

Author : George Wellington

About the Author :

Rochester411 provides information about the city of Rochester Minnesota, including Motel and Hotel information, restaurants and fine dining guides, movie theaters and live theatre, and a complete Rochester MN business directory.

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Barcelona Travel Tips- A Guide to Geting Around

Barcelona has a public transport system that is an absolute delight for visitors to this spectacular city.

The totally integrated system allows you to get around cheaply and easily for 24 hours a day. The Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona is the organisation which is responsible for co-ordinating not only the city's Metro and bus systems but also the trams and local train services.

By far the quickest way to travel around the Catalan capital city is by the truly excellent Metro system, with an easy to follow colour-coded route map that comes as a blessed relief to those more used to trying to decipher London's underground maps. There are more than enough stations - you're never very far from one wherever your wanderings take you - and they are easily identifiable by the signs with the blue letter M inside the red diamond. A single ride will cost you 1.25 - but, as we shall see later - there are some very good deals to be had.

The bus routes - and there are more than 80 lines across the city - may not be as quick as the Metro but they certainly offer an easy method of seeing the many architectural splendours - ranging from the bizarre Gaudi inspired architecture to the more classically inspired splendours the city can provide. The bus stops are at red signs with brown benches underneath a small roof and almost all of the buses in Barcelona are now wheelchair accessible, with many having wheelchairs lifts. For late-nighters, Barcelona provides a comprehensive night service, the Nitbus, which operates until 4.30 in the morning and goes past most of the popular night venues - some can even take you straight to the airport.

You can pick up free maps showing all the city's bus and Metro lines - including the Nitbus - at tourist offices and Metro stations - and hotels often have them. The Tourist and Leisure Cards which offer significant savings on fares are available at TMB Customer Service centres, Metro stations, Newsagents, Tourist Information Offices and even at Lottery selling outlets. A two day card offering unlimited use costs 10.70, a three day card 14.30 and a five day 23.10 - and remember that they're valid for all the TMB services.

Of course, Barcelona also has its share of taxis for those who prefer this mode of transport or who have luggage they need to stow. Barcelona cabs are easily recognised by their black and yellow colouring and, of course, have the green light on the roof which indicates they are 'libre' - lliure in Catalan. If the light is yellow, then the taxi is unavailable for hire or occupied. Currently there is a minimum fare of 1.80, with rates at 0.82 per kilometre or 1.04 per kilometre at nights and weekends. Obviously you can expect surcharges for luggage, etc and, if you're looking to travel from the airport by cab, the minimum charge is 15.00, with 1 for every item of luggage.

With regard to taxis, it's as well to remember, though, that much of the centre of Barcelona is pedestrianised and allows access only to buses, so there are some places taxis cannot take you.

Barcelona is considered, justifiably, one of Europe's most attractive destinations - combining, as it does, beach and city, ancient and modern, local and international. As befits such a venue, the public transport systems are in place to ensure that visitors can really make the most of their time there

Author : Mark Hazard

About the Author :

For more information on getting around Barcelona, including the Barcelona metro and Car hire in Barcelona see Barcelona Travelogue.

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Top Five Celebrity Hotspots

With ever-changing trends in today's media obsessed society constantly influencing the current generation, the developing face of travel sees the conventional package-holiday begin to lose its spark. Holiday-goers are instead now choosing a far more alluring and exhilarating option for their annual getaway.

From themed vacations, to fun-filled adventure packed holidays, we're here to suggest an alternative twist on your average holiday. If you fancy a taste of glamour or visualise yourself possibly rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous, then look no further.

Here are our top five specialised destinations you are most likely to spot a celebrity:

Ibiza

Despite the persistent rumours claiming that Ibiza has had its day, hordes of visitors and celebrities continue to grace the stunning soil of the ‘White Island' in search of its beautiful Balearic beaches, worldwide famous nightlife and quaint cobbled streets of the Old Town. Ibiza has loads to offer, including striking natural coves and countryside, fantastic history, stylish restaurants and a charismatic old quarter. Celebrities such as supermodel Kate Moss, Jade Jagger, actress Sienna Miller and US rapper/producer P Diddy have all been spotted in cosmopolitan Ibiza.

Morocco

You'll be surprised how easy it is to slip into another culture when visiting the golden sands of Morocco. Expect sophisticated minarets and rugged mud-brick walls, glistening coastlines lapping upon silken sand and striped canyons carved out of the High Atlas Mountains. Whether you visit Morocco for the sunshine or to trek across the hot deserts via camel, we can guarantee that you will be charmed by its medieval cities, particularly Fez and Marrakech. Both Jake Gyllenhaal and Reese Witherspoon have been spotted in Marrakech recently.

Berlin

Berlin has slowly emerged as one of Europe's liveliest cities. Prenzlauer Berg, once a run down area of East Berlin, is now known as one of the hippest districts, with chic bars and restaurants lining its historic streets. No trip to the city would be complete without stopping off at the Brandenburg Gate and for a relaxing afternoon, take a stroll through Tiergarten - a huge park in the city centre. The city's annual film festival attracts an array of celebrities such as Madonna and Mischa Barton. Tom Cruise's upcoming film Valkyrie was also filmed here and the actor was regularly visited on set by wife Katie Holmes.

Las Vegas

Stars such as Cameron Diaz, Britney Spears and Ashton Kutcher have all holidayed in Las Vegas - and it's not hard to see why! The bright lights, mega-bucks gambling and extravagant shows have made this one of the most glamourous cities in the world. For a bite to eat in the flamboyant metropolis, visit eateries such as Wynn's SW Steakhouse, where you may bump into regulars including Tom Cruise. You can also count on Las Vegas to have bags of style; it's a shopaholic's paradise. Where else can you see the sights of New York, Paris and Egypt all in one fun-filled afternoon?

Prague

Prague, capital of the Czech Republic, lies at the heart of Central Europe. An exciting history, fascinating sightseeing and good value entertainment make this one of the true must-see cities in Europe. Prague is a stunning city through which the Vltava River flows, filled with a thousand years worth of manmade structures; it is the confluence of trade routes, political interests and cultural influences. Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Bono and Kylie Minogue have all visited this wonderful city.

Author : Brooke Jester

About the Author :

Planning on following the jet-set? Take a look at these 5-star hotels

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Yacht Charter in the Caribbean

Whether or not you have prior experience of sailing, if you are planning a trip to the West Indies you would be well advised to consider the advantages of Caribbean yacht charter.

With more than seven thousand islands to discover, it would take a lifetime to explore all parts of this region. However, while conventional hotel-based holidays offer their patrons only a rather limited glimpse, Caribbean yacht charters provide a fantastic means with which to witness a far greater part of this beautiful region.

There are many great locations to charter yachts in the Caribbean, but two of the most popular are the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and the Grenadines. Whether you are interested in bareboat Caribbean Catamaran charters, or skippered yacht charter, you will find the full range of services in these locations.

In both of these locations you will find companies that offer services for both experienced and novice sailors alike. As such you will find a choice of bareboat, skippered, and luxury crewed yacht charter. You will also have to choose whether you want to cruise the Caribbean in a motor-boat or a sail-boat

Yacht Charters in the BVI (British Virgin Islands)

Located to the east of Puerto Rico, the British Virgin Islands form the northernmost part of the Lesser Antilles, the 400 mile long arc of mostly volcanic islands that separates the Caribbean Sea from the Atlantic Ocean.

Thanks to steady trade winds and year round sunshine, the BVI are one of the most popular destinations for Caribbean boat charter.

This really is a place to get away from it all, and as the Islands remain relatively uninhabited, you will often get the feeling that you have the Islands all to yourselves.

That is not to say that you will have any difficulty finding places to eat and drink, as there are plenty of great bars and restaurants to choose from. This is however a generally quiet and relaxed region and you won't find the kind of nightclubs and casinos that have emerged in so many other beach resorts.

The pleasures in this part of the world are far more natural and you will find that the British Virgin Islands are a great destination for swimming, snorkelling and diving.

There are wonderful coves to explore, as well as many beautiful white sandy beaches. The most vibrant scenes, however, are to be found underwater where you will find countless colourful tropical fish swimming amongst the coral reefs.

You may also choose to explore one of the areas many ship-wrecks. The wreck of the RMS Rhone is located here and it is said to be one of the best in the Western Hemisphere.

Grenadines Yacht Charter

Located to the north of Trinidad, and forming the southernmost part of the Lesser Antilles, the Grenadines are another great destination for yacht charters in the Carribean.

The Grenadines are comprised of around thirty islands and keys and offer good winds and swift line-of-sight sailing.

Like the British Virgin Islands, the Grenadines are also a great destination for diving and snorkelling, and one of the most popular dive locations is the wreck of the Jonas which is located near Mustique.

You might also like to try your hand at drift diving, a special form of diving where you allow yourself to be carried by strong underwater currents. The sensation of drift diving has been likened to that of flying and the fact that you are travel so quickly means that you get to see far a far greater range of seascapes than normal.

You should be advised however, that drift diving is more dangerous than normal diving and as such requires special training. Fortunately there are good diving schools located on St Vincent, Bequia, Mustique and the Tobago Cays.

Author : Rumble Romagnoli

About the Author :

Dolmen Yachts specialise in Caribbean yacht charters in the Caribbean. Ask your captain about BVI yacht charter, Grenadines yacht charter, Tahiti yacht charter and caribbean catamaran charters.

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