About Japan

Japan is located on the island at the edge of Asia. This location has a profound effect on the history of Japan. While many think of Japan as a fairly developed country, there is plenty of undeveloped areas of Japan. The landscape across the country varies from forests to sub-tropical reefs to soaring mountains. Japan is located in a volcanic area of the Pacific Ring of Fire and it has about 108 active volcanoes. The country also experiences very destructive earthquakes several times in a century and these earthquakes typically result in tsunamis. As a whole, Japan is mostly temperate but the climate can vary greatly between the north and the south.

Thrill-seeking Activities in Japan

Japan may not be first on one’s most thrill-seeking places to go but it should be! Japan offers plenty of thrill-seeking adventures.

• Yamanashi

Yamanashi boasts the Fuji-Q Amusement Park, which is one of the most thrilling amusement parks in the world. This amusement park boasts four main attraction roller coasters: the Fujiyama, Eejanaika, Dodonpa and Takabisha. The Takabisha  is the roller coaster that has the record for the steepest free fall – 121 degrees and a drop of 43 meters. The Dodonpa is considered the world’s fastest accelerating roller coaster. The Eejanaika is one of the world’s few 4th dimension roller coasters , which has seats that rotate backward and forward 360 degrees using a controlled spin. Fujiyama was once the tallest, steepest roller coaster.

• Ogawayama

Rock climbing in Ogawayama is an extreme sport experience that is like none other. The rock face provides climbers with over one thousand climbing trails and provides the best rock-climbing experience in Japan.

• Tokyo

Tokyo offers a day of adventure in the wild waters of Japan. You can combine whitewater rafting along with a canyoning trip to create a trip full of speed, excitement and adrenaline rushes! Canyoning is a fairly new sport that combines repelling, swimming and rock climbing into a mega-sport.

Thrill-seeking Vacation Packages in Japan

In Japan, travelers can choose from day trip adventure packages and more lengthy adventure packages. Inside Japan Tours offers a comprehensive list of tours from self-guided holidays to luxury all-inclusive packages. This tour operator even offers tours to Fuji-Q and other amusement theme-parks.

Niseko Xtreme Tours offers many extreme sport tours. Their 4 Peaks Xtreme Challenge features climbs to 4 different peaks. They also offer The Youtei Experience which is a climb up Mount Youtei – a large volcano. Their Dawn 2 Dusk Cat Tour includes a night ride on a customized snow cat through unbelievable terrains. The Velocity Snowmobiling Tour is a tour on a high quality machine through the winter wilderness.

Xtreme Gap Year offers a unique experience to train with a karate master. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is suitable for anyone who is serious about karate. This karate experience takes place in Okinawan with some of the most respected karate legends in Japan.

How much will Japan cost?

Cities like Tokyo will be very expensive to visit however there are many places in Japan that offer better bargains. Country inns can offer the best value and these simple hotels found in small towns can run less than $100 a night. For $20 or less, travelers can have their fill of sushi and Japanese delicacies (eel, seaweed, snails and roe). As for transportation, for under $300, one can purchase a 7-day rail pass on sleek bullet trains. This makes getting across the country quick, easy and affordable. One of the biggest thrill experiences you can have in Japan is the Fuji-Q amusement park and it is a cheap day as the entrance ticket is only $13.

About the Golden Isles of Georgia  The Golden Isles of Georgia run alongside the 100 mile long coast of the US state of Georgia. The isles include: Seas Island, St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island, Historic Brunswick and Little St Simons Island. The isles are all located in the Glynn County, Georgia, The average annual temperature is 66.5F, with August high temperatures of 91F and January low temperatures of 42F. As a result of the year-round mild temperatures, Northern Americans from states like New Jersey and New York are attracted to the Golden Isles. The good weather on all the islands combined with the natural beauty has made the Golden Isles of Georgia an exclusive place to live as much as to visit. Visitors to the Isles are impressed with the beaches, water recreation, wetlands and sub-tropical forests. Leisure Activities in the Golden Isles of Georgia Since the time period after the American Civil War, most of the islands have become homes to elite resorts that are frequented by some of the country’s wealthiest families and are popular islands for leisure and relaxation.

• Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is about seven miles long and one and a half miles wide. Jekyll Island features a paved causeway so that the island can be accessed by cars. The north end of Jekyll island is the main part that has been developed. In total, the island has about eight miles of wide and flat beaches on the east shore. The sand on these beaches is hard packed so that visitors can easily walk or bike on the beaches. There is also about twenty miles of hiking trails. It is suggested that visitors take a leisurely stroll through the Landmark Historic District on Jekyll Island. Guided tours are available as well. This attraction is among the largest restoration projects in the US that is ongoing and the work has received numerous awards for its historic preservation.

• Sea Island

Sea Island is a well-visited island with two luxury resorts – The “Sea Island Beach Club” and “The Cloister”. The island is owned by Sea Island Acquisitions and they operate the two resorts so public access to the island is fairly limited. The island sits about 60 miles south of Savannah and 60 miles north of Jacksonville, FL.

• St Simons Island

St. Simons Island is the largest island of the Golden Isles of Georgia. It was cultivated by the English colonists for its cotton and rice plantations that were worked by African slaves. This created a unique culture and has more recently been developed into a resort community. While it has many seasonal residents, there are also many year-round residents. There is a causeway for traveling to the island by car and there is even an airport located on the island. One of its main attractions is the St. Simon Lighthouse which underwent significant restoration work in 2010. Leisure Vacation Packages in the Golden Isles of Georgia The Golden Isles of Georgia offers ample leisure and relaxation activities. On Sea Island, the two resorts are The Beach Club which lies by the ocean and provides visitors with plenty of beaches and water activities; and The Cloister which is on the south-west part of the island along the Black Banks River. This is considered the main hotel of the whole resort island and contains restaurant, a pool plus on-land activities. Both resorts are luxury five star resorts; the difference between them is what you are looking for: beach and ocean or pool and land activities (golf etc). Both resorts offer accommodation packages for golf, spa, and racquet. There will definitely be a relaxation package for you! The King and Prince on St. Simons Island offers different leisure and relaxation packages, depending on what type of package you are looking for. The “Just Beachy” package is for those who love the beach and enjoys catching a nap in the sand under a beach umbrella or soaking up the sun. The “It’s All About WE” package is an island escape for couples whose priority is just being with one another. The “Royal Golf” package includes green fees and more for each day of stay at the resort. The “Royal Treatment” package includes some spa treatments along with accommodations. The “Kayak Adventure” package allows you to discover the  island on a 3 hour kayak adventure with an adventure tour group. How much will the Golden Isles of Georgia cost? The Golden Isles of Georgia can be relatively expensive compared to other destinations in the United States however, compared to some international destinations, it can be more reasonable. St. Simons Island is the most affordable of all the islands. The average household that sells on St. Simons Island is about $300,000. Compare that to the average single-family dwelling on Sea Island which is $3.4 million. So if you are budget-conscious, St. Simons might be the better of all the islands to visit. Accommodations on St Simons Island is a little cheaper than the other islands and there are more to choose from. The two resorts on Seas Island can be fairly expensive and often does not include any meals and extras.

About Ireland

Ireland is known to be the 3rd largest island in Europe and is a part of the United Kingdom. In the political sense, Ireland is separated into the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. The Republic of Ireland is far larger than Northern Ireland as it is about five-sixths of the entire island. Lush vegetation covers the island and the climate is mild without extremes in temperature, The lushness of the island is as a result of the climate and the precipitation that frequently falls lightly on most days. The population of the entire island of Ireland is almost 6.5 million. Almost 2 million people live in Northern Ireland and the rest all live in the Republic of Ireland. Ireland’s population was highest in 1841 at over 8 million people. By 1921 this had reduced to 4 million due to the Great Famine and the emigration of the Irish people.

 Entertainment Activities in Ireland

All across Ireland, visitors can find some great entertainment in pubs, restaurants and nightclubs.

• Dublin

Dublin may have gone through dramatic changes over recent year but the pub still remains at the heart of its social existence. Anseo is a popular alternative venue in Dublin where you can chat and enjoy the DJs. The Dublin Literacy Pub Crawl may be a worthwhile experience, depending on your tastes. You can immerse yourself in the literacy heritage of Dublin while enjoying a few pints along the pub crawl.

• Belfast

Belfast just may be one of the last places in the UK where visitors can find un-touched Victorian pubs. The Crown Liquor Saloon is the most famous bar in Belfast. Patrons can summon the staff with bells and there are still gunmetal match-striking plates. White’s Tavern dates all the way back to 1630, the year it was first granted its tavern licence – the first tavern licence issued in Belfast. There is also McHugh’s which features local musicians, open fires and witty chess pieces created by a famous sculptor.

• Galway

The city of Galway seems to come alive at night with dancing and sing and busy pubs. There is a mix of live traditional Irish music and contemporary music in pubs that you can hear while floating between the pubs. An Pucan is a venue of traditional Irish music, often live seven nights a week. The King’s Head is a must-see entertainment stop in Galway. This pub is located in a building dating back to the 16th century. It features priceless artwork and tapestries hanging on walls and medieval fireplaces. Typically a  top 40 cover band is playing there.

Entertainment Vacation Packages in Ireland

Choosing a vacation package in Ireland will be difficult as there are so many to choose from! Do a bit of research and thinking about the vacation that you would like to have in Ireland.

Exploring Vacations offers many different vacation packages to Ireland, depending on your style of vacation you are looking for. They offer planned self-drive tours, coach tours, and private guided tours. In each of these categories, there are plenty of package options. They also divide their packages into  categories of “pace” – slow, medium or very busy. All of their vacation packages are listed on their website plus practical information about Ireland such as the best time to visit.

Authentic Ireland offers custom vacation packages in addition to bed & breakfast packages, self-drive tours, golf tours, bus tours, honeymoon vacations, castle vacations and vacation rentals. This site offers plenty of advice as well for those who need it. One of their most popular vacation is the Pub & Music vacation package. In this 8 day vacation package, travelers will enjoy organized sightseeing tours through the day and then spend the evenings in pubs listening to music. There is even a musical pub crawl in Dublin for one of the evenings.

How much will Ireland cost?

Ireland can be expensive if you are staying in the bigger, tourist cities such as Dublin. The bare minimum to travel in Dublin, you will need about $70 a day. That cost would include a stay in a hostel. For about $150-175, you can stay very well in Ireland, with somewhat more luxurious surroundings. Outside the major cities, you will find more bed and breakfasts which will be good quality but might be a bit more expensive.  Transportation is fairly reasonable.

In Northern Ireland, it is quite a bit cheaper than the Republic of Ireland. For about $60 a visitor can stay quite comfortably. The real savings in costs in the north is in the food costs. An excellent 2 course meal for lunch will cost under $20. If you go into major cities in Northern Ireland, for instance Belfast, expect the food costs to increase by a few dollars.

About Italy

Italy is located in Southern Europe and it borders Slovenia, Austria, Switzerland and France. In addition to the main Italian territory, it also includes the two largest Mediterranean Islands – Sardinia and Sicily. The islands of Pantelleria are also part of Italy. Rome is the largest city in Italy and is also the capital city. Italy’s climate ranges from oceanic to humid continental to humid sub-tropical.

Italy is offers its inhabitants free education that is mandatory from age 6 to 16. It also runs a mixed public-private healthcare system. Italy’s economy is characterized by low unemployment and high per capita GDP. Italy is known for its history. Throughout the country, one can find some of the oldest sites in the world, making it a perfect place for history buffs to visit.

Historical Activities in Italy

For the history buffs, there is an amazing selection of historic sites to see in Italy:

• Pompeii

Pompeii is one of the most well-known ancient sites in the world as it was founded in the 6th or 7th century BC. It was destroyed by a volcano in 79 AD, causing it to be one of the most famous archeological sites of the world. The attraction to this site is that its artifacts, homes and buildings have remained intact as they have been preserved by the cinders and ash from the volcano.

• The Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums host some of the most important and impressive artifacts of the world. The Vatican Museums was the original site of the papal palaces, making it a very popular site to visit.

• The Colosseum

For many people, the Colosseum is not like any other site. This Roman Empire represents magnificence and power, making it a stunning object in ancient architecture.  This amphitheatre was built in the first century AD for the Romans to enjoy; it is now visited and enjoyed by thousands each year.

Historical Vacation Packages in Italy

There are countless tours and vacation packages that history buffs can choose from for Italy. They range from half day tours to a few weeks vacations. The day tours can be self-guided or include a tour guide and are usually of the most known historical sites across Italy. From day tours, you can go up to vacation packages that start at a few days in length – again covering the most popular sites. The vacation packages that are a week or longer are much more in-depth and covers a far larger area. For instance, Globus tour vacations have tours that include sites such as: the Colosseum, St. Peter’s, the Sistine Chapel St. Francis’ Basilica and St. Clare’s Church.

Trafalgar Tours vary from 8 days to 19 days and depending on the length, the historical sites included does vary. The main historical sites are covered on most of the tours however, on the longer tours some of the sites might be less popular but are diamonds in the rough with lots of historical value.

How much will Italy cost?

Vacation tours in Italy vary greatly in price. Tours start at about $1300-1500 and can go higher than $5000, depending on the length of the tour, the sites that are visited, whether or not accommodations and meals are included and the quality of accommodations. Most tours do not include airfare but some do so it is important when choosing a tour to take that into consideration. Also, look into what meals and accommodations are included, possible upgrades to better rooms and so on. If you choose to forgo a pre-planned guided tour, there are many cheaper options to consider such as renting a car and touring around the country – seeing all the historical sites you are interested in!

About Australia

Australia is a country that comprises of the main Australian continent plus Tasmania and other smaller islands. Australia has six states: Western Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, Queensland and New South Wales. It also has two major territories: Northern Territory and Australian Capital Territory.

Australia is one of the most wealthiest countries in the world and has a very high per capita income. For climate, the northern part has a tropical climate and the southwest part has a more Mediterranean climate. The southeast side, including Tasmania, has a temperate climate. As a result of the significant size of Australia, it offers a broad array of landscapes – mountain ranges, tropical rainforests and dry deserts.

Thrill-seeking Activities in Australia

Australia is a large continent and therefore it offers many activities for those seeking action and adventure!

• Dirt biking through the wilderness

Cape York is one of the biggest remaining wildernesses in the world. It is difficult to access and very remote so by using dirt bikes, you can get into the real Cape York instead of seeing it from a bus.

• Cage of Death

The Cage of Death in Australia allows you to stare at some of the largest saltwater crocodiles in all of Australia. In this adventure, only a few inches of glass separates you from the crocodiles!

•  BASE Jumping

BASE jumping is one of the most extreme sports you can participate in. In Australia, Queensland is the best place to BASE jump. If you are looking to give it a try, might as well try it in Australia!

• Zip Lining

Instead of trekking through the mountains and walking through the jungles, why not zip line! Experience racing through rainforests at extraordinary speeds and flying over treetops in the jungle. IN Victoria, the Otway rainforest offers an excellent area to zip line over the jungle.

Thrill-seeking Vacation Packages in Australia

There are different ways of experiencing adventures in Australia. You can book a one or two day adventure package or even a package that in longer than a week. For example, Cape York Motorcycle Adventures offers 2-10 day trips through the wilderness area of Cape York. These trips are all-inclusive and  include the use of the motor bike, food and accommodations.

Adventure Tours of Australia offers small group tours all over Australia, offering 3 different types of tours that depend on whether you want the “frills” included. Some tours are even tailored to a younger group so adventure seekers can travel with like-aged travelers.

TourRadar offers a variety of adventure tours ranging from just a few days to weeks. Some of the trips can be intense and adventure-filled or some can include some relaxation time in between adventures. They also vary in the sites that are visited – the mountains, caves, rainforests or jungles.

How much will Australia cost?

Depending on the type of adventures you are looking for, the price will vary significantly. For more relaxing trips, with one adventure throw in that only lasts a few days total, the price would start around $500. For longer excursions, prices can range up to the thousands, depending on the extremeness of the adventure, the length, the accommodations and meals included (if any) and the areas covered. Remember that adventure day trips are widely available and may be a cheaper option that an all-inclusive lengthy trip. These trips may take more planning, ie transportation, accommodations, but then you can choose the thrills you want to experience.

About Brazil

Brazil is known as a captivating place, offering plenty of exciting things to do and places to see. The country has dazzling white, sandy beaches, rhythm filled metropolises and gorgeous rain forests. The dramatic landscapes include thundering waterfalls, beautiful tropical islands and red rock canyons. On top of all that, Brazil has a diverse ecosystem that has a great collection of animal and plant species that can be found anywhere in the world.

Brazil is the largest country in South America and is the 5th largest country worldwide. Brazil is a leading economic power in Latin America. Brazil has different regional variations, contributing to its culture that is diverse and rich.

Entertainment Activities in Brazil

While Brazil offers travelers gorgeous beaches and pristine landscapes, it also boasts rhythm filled entertainment. While most cities and towns throughout the country has a great nightlife, there are some cities notable for their entertainment activities.

• Rio de Janeiro

If you are looking to ring in the New Year some place that is alive with music and celebrations, the Reveillion party on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro is the place to be. About two million people will join you for a night to remember, filled with music, dancing, and fireworks.

• Maranhão

The Bumba Meu Boi is a wild festival in Maranhão that comprises of Portugese, Indian and African influences. This late-July to mid-Aug festival revolves around the story of an ox’s death and its resurrection. It includes street performers, tales told through song and dance, and capoeira (an Afro-Brazilian art form).

• Olinda

Olinda has its own Carnaval that is held over the Easter holidays. The festivities include balls, Afro-Brazilian rhythms, street-style parties, nights of samba and a large parade.

Brazil is world famed for its famous Carnaval celebration that occurs in a few major cities in the country. This carnival storms though the country with hip-shaking sambas and dazzling costumes every year for a few weeks. While the celebration only lasts a short time, the months leading up to it are filled with fun parties.

Entertainment Vacation Packages in Brazil

There are plenty of adventure packages to choose from when traveling to Brazil. The packages typically vary based on what you are looking to do and see in Brazil.

Intelligent Travel Solutions offers “Discover Brazil” vacation packages. One of their packages is called Brazil Carnival Package that is specially designed for those travelers wanting to experience the celebrations of Carnaval. They also allow travelers to customize their own packages to suit their needs.

Tours Gone Wild is another travel company that offers vacation packages for entertainment-seeking travelers. One package they offer is New Years in Rio de Janeiro. This package is all-inclusive – it includes airfare,  transportation, accommodation, food, drinks, access to the hottest nightclubs in Rio, VIP Service at the clubs as well as Bottle Service. This travel company also offers a fun and thrilling entertainment package that combines Brazil and Argentina. This package allows the traveler to experience the night life at both of the major cities of Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires.

How much will Brazil cost?

Brazil offers adventures for travelers with large and small budgets alike. Regardless of how much your budget is, you will be able to experience the nightlife in Brazil!

If you are looking for all-inclusive tours that are primarily dedicated to parties and nightclubs that include the frills such as VIP service, bottle service, free drinks and so on, expect to pay more. These packages typically start at $2500 but they include airfare and accommodations. One of the main benefits of choosing this type of package is that the travel company knows the hottest places to party, whereas visitors often do not. Therefore, if you are looking for a guaranteed good time, it might be worthwhile to splurge on such a travel package.

About Malaysia

Malaysia is a country located in Southeast Asia. It is partly located on the peninsula of the mainland of Asia and also partly on the northern part of Borneo. It shares a border with Indonesia, Brunei and Thailand. The climate is tropical as Malaysia is close to the equator – guaranteeing warm weather.

Malaysia is a mixed combination of a developing nation and the modern world. Malaysia has emerged from British, Dutch and Portuguese rule and prospered into a multi-cultural country that has a unique flavor. One of Malaysia’s distinct characteristics is its culture of celebrating various events and festivals.  There is no lack of exciting activities in Malaysia!

Thrill-seeking Activities in Malaysia

If you are looking for some thrill-seeking adventures, then Malaysia is a great place to visit!

• Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a very large city in Malaysia and is known by the locals as KL. One activity for thrill-seekers is BASE jumping and Kuala Lumpur offers the annual Kuala Lumpur Tower Jump. At this organized event, daredevils from around the globe come to Kuala Lumpur to somersault off the edge of the tower, only to drop 421 meters to concrete below.

• Singoh River,  Perak

Whitewater rafting in Malaysia’s national parks can range from a tame Grade 1 to a dangerous and difficult Grade V. Singoh River in Perak is a daring Grade V for those seeking a thrilling adventure.

• Langkawi

In Langkawi visitors seeking adventure can ride the second highest cable car ride in the whole world. They can view the magnificent rainforests of Malaysia and the Andaman Sea.

• Mount Kinabalu

In Mount Kinabalu, thrill-seekers can climb the highest Via Feratta in the world. This activity is definitely not for the weak-hearted as you will be using cable lines to cross valleys and walking on surfaces that are vertical.

Thrill-seeking Vacation Packages in Malaysia

Packages for thrill-seekers in Malaysia can be found for budgets large and small. If you are looking for thrills but want to combine some sightseeing, the whitewater rafting along the Singoh River might be something you are interested in. You can see some of Malaysia while experiencing some thrills. Oxbold Extreme Sports Malaysia offers many different adventure packages, often combining different modes of transportation into one package. One of their adventures is whitewater rafting along the Singoh River and consists of three days and two nights.

Often adventure travel packages combine Malaysia tours with those of other countries (ie Singapore and Thailand). Geckos Adventures offers these types of packages and travelers can experience thrills in all the countries included. Usually in these packages, there are some thrill-seeking activities (ie trekking through the jungle) combined with some relaxation and leisure time. However, if there are certain adventures you would like to participate in, it might be possible to schedule them on your own on the leisure days offered by the tour.

How much will Malaysia cost?

Malaysia can be a relatively less expensive place to travel as opposed to other locations (ie the US). For those who are budget-conscious, it might be better to book cheap accommodations (ie camping or hostel) and then plan on booking one or two thrill adventures that you really wish to do. It is possible to find an adventure package that only lasts a few days ( for a few hundred dollars) which can be tacked on to your vacation for an even better experience. Of course, if money is a less important factor as opposed to thrills, joining a few tour adventures together or finding one longer tour adventure might result in the best experience . Count on at least $1500 for a more inclusive package.

About Tanzania

Tanzania is a country in East Africa and borders Kenya, Uganda, Rawanda, Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique and the Indian Ocean. Tanzania is divided into thirty administrative regions. The highest mountain in Africa is Kilimanjaro and is located in northeastern Tanzania. Tanzania has many ecologically significant wildlife reserves and parks.

Tanzania is a large producer of gold, among many other minerals, although its economy is based heavily on agriculture. Tanzania boasts a tropical climate with most of the country rarely falling below 68 F. The hot period for Tanzania is between November and February and the coldest between May and August.

Thrill-seeking Activities in Tanzania

Tanzania has plenty of adrenaline-rushing activities to experience, especially among the wild.

• Serengeti

Walking through the bush in the Serengeti National Park allows all of your senses to be heightened and experience the wilderness. It is a liberating feeling to walk through the wild Africa.

• Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro is among the highest freestanding mountains across the world and has the highest peak in all of Africa. There are plenty of excursions ranging in level of activity. For those thrill-seekers out there, be sure to choose a tour that challenges you!

• Lake Manyara National Park

The Lake Manyara National Park is one of the few parks that allows for night game drives. Visitors can view nocturnal animals such as hippos, leopards, genets, porcupines, civets and bush babies. Most of these animals cannot be seen during the day so night game drives (albeit a little more dangerous) offer a very different experience than those game drives during the day.

Thrill-seeking Vacation Packages in Tanzania

There are plenty of adventure packages to choose from in Tanzania so every traveler should be able to find one that suits his or her needs. Extreme Safari combines a safari with a range of other extreme activities. Other activities include kitesurfing, mountain biking, climbing Mount Kenya and scuba diving. You can even create your own adventure holiday.

If you are looking for risky night game drives then Wildersun might be worth looking into.  This company offers a choice of 18 night game drives, depending on which areas you would like to see.

If climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is what you are interested in experiencing, then Climbing Kilimanjaro might be the company to check out. Climbing Kilimanjaro offers different routes, transportation, guides and so on for an all-inclusive experience. They also can provide an option called: X-treme Route Tracker which a live tracking of your climb so your friends and family can watch.

How much will Tanzania cost?

A trip to Tanzania can be affordable and reasonably priced or it can get quite expensive, depending on what you are looking for in a thrill-seeking adventure. For example, G Adventures offers fairly expensive adventure packages (over $4500 in some cases) but are over 40 days in length. If this isn’t your style then there are plenty of more budget-friendly options.

If you are interested in a safari, then there are plenty of packages to select from. You can get the basics, which include guides with vehicles, fly-tents and are self-catered) in smaller parks which can be $50 a night or even less to luxury lodges in the Serengeti which can cost anywhere from US$250 to $1500 a night. In most of the parks, a guide is needed. Guides can be hired for a day and the price is usually around $35 a day plus tip.

About Nicaragua

 Nicaragua is the largest country in Central America. It borders Costa Rica to the South and Honduras to the north. The Caribbean Sea is on the east side and the Pacific Ocean is on the west side. Nicaragua is divided into three main geographical zones: The Pacific lowlands, the wet and cooler highlands and then the Caribbean lowlands. The landmass of Nicaragua is comparable to the size of Alabama.

Nicaragua is one of the poorest countries in all the Americas. About 50% of Nicaragua’s population live below the poverty line. About 80% of the population of Nicaragua lives on less than two dollars a day. However, tourism is booming in this country and this growth has had a positive influence on agriculture, construction, finance and commercial industries.

Thrill-seeking Activities in Nicaragua

There are many areas of Nicaragua to experience extreme sports but a few areas in particular have become a very popular.

• Cerro Negro

Cerro Negro is a live volcano (most recently erupted in 1999) that has come to the attention of extreme boarders. This hotspot allows the extreme volcano boarders to experience speeds of up to 59 miles per hour while coursing down the 2300 foot high volcano. There is about an hour hike up the volcano to the lip of the crater then your feet are strapped to a retrofitted snowboard and then you careen down the volcano with the ash flying and hot wind blowing.

• Isla de Ometepe

Isla de Ometepe hosts an extreme survival run called the Fuego Y Agua 100k. This is an ultimate marathon challenge that includes terrains such as sandy beach, dirt trails, paved road, technical single track and a jungle gym section where participants navigate through trees, deep mud and disappearing trails.

Thrill-seeking Vacation Packages in Nicaragua

If you are looking for an adventure package, then Nicaragua has plenty of them to offer to you!

Bigfoot Hostels Nicaragua offers travel packages, including a stay at their Bigfoot Hostel. They offer adventure packages that include volcano boarding and volcano hiking plus some relaxation time on the beach.

Austin-Lehman Adventures offers an adventure package that starts in Granada, the capital city of Nicaragua. From there, the package includes a zip-line canopy tour throughout the Nature Reserve of Mombacho for a high-speed adventure with gorgeous views. Then the tour goes on to Cerro Negro for boarding down the volcano while watching the spectacular views.

The Surf Ranch Nicaragua is an action sports resort – the one and only in Nicaragua. This resort features a jungle paintball course, Nicaragua’s largest skateboard park, a tower drop into a large inflatable airbag plus the normal activities such as swimming surfing, fishing, yoga, scuba diving, rockclimbing and skateboarding.

How much will Nicaragua cost?

Nicaragua is one of the cheapest destinations in the Americas to travel to. It is close to the United States so the airfare is reasonable. The total cost of your trip to Nicaragua will probably be lowers than most other places, including international trips. Nicaragua offers cheap drinks and affordable restaurants, with a basic restaurant lunch costing about $2.50-$7 and a fancy restaurant meal costing about $7-$15.

For accommodations, there are plenty to choose from – between hostels and hotels. A double room with private bath, A/C and tv will range between $10-$30 a night and a double room with nice amenities (daily maid service, breakfast, pool) costs anywhere between $25 to $60 per night.

About Fiji

Fiji is well-known for its beautiful cloudless skies and gorgeous white sand beaches. Fiji is comprised of more than 332 islands (110 of them are permanently inhabited) and 500 plus islets. Most of the Fijian islands were formed by volcanic activity more than 150 million years ago. Fiji is separated into four major divisions and these divisions are then further divided into fourteen provinces.

Fiji has a very well-developed economy compared to other countries in the Pacific Islands. It has an abundance of mineral, fish and forest resources. The main sources of foreign exchange are Fiji’s sugar exports and its tourist industry. Fiji has a significant amount of tourism, with the majority of travelers coming from the US, New Zealand and Australia. Fiji has beautiful underwater scenery that offers some of the finest and most accessible dives in the Pacific.

Leisure Activities in Fiji

The main attraction to Fiji is its postcard perfect islands with their white sandy beaches and year-round tropical weather. Fiji is the perfect spot for a relaxing and leisurely vacation!

• Mamanuca Islands

The Mamanuca Islands are made up of twenty islands, although seven are covered at high tide. These islands offer palm-fringed sandy white beaches, crystal clear water and live coral reefs. There are plenty of villages to visit, resorts to stay at and places to snorkel and swim.

• Yasawa Islands

The Yasawa Islands consist of 6 main islands and many smaller islets. Transportation to get to the Yasawa Islands is limited but chartered sea planes, helicopter charters and the Yasawa Flyer (a catamaran) are all available options. The Yasawa Island Resort and Spa is a very exclusive retreat, found upon a remote and unspoiled island of Fiji. There are only 18 bungalows hidden among palm trees, offering complete seclusion. Visitors can dive on the coroals, swim in the clear water or experience the Fijian culture.

• Viti Levu

Viti Levu is the largest Fijian island and therefore has the largest population. It is an island that offers everything for a restful and relaxing vacation, including friendly local people, nightlife, beautiful beaches, quaint villages and sightseeing experiences.

• Taveneuni

Teveuni is an island that is also known as the Garden Island. It has beautiful mountains and abundant tropical growth. On this island, one can wander through an orchid garden, lazily raft down a river, leisurely soak in a hot spring or take a stroll through a village.

Leisure Vacation Packages in Fiji

As tourism is such a large part of Fiji, there are plenty of relaxation packages to choose from.

Islands in the Sun offers vacation packages to five popular destinations in Fiji, all in different areas. Some of the packages are geared more for families, or leisure sports (ie golf), or spa activities but all of them have one goal in mind: to provide rest and relaxation.

Namale Fiji is Fiji’s top all-inclusive resort and spa. Unwind and disappear into complete relaxation inside a gorgeous bure or villa, share a blissful and private dinner, relax during an award-winning spa treatment, ride on horseback to a hidden waterfall, trek through a glorious rainforest or scuba dive in the breathtaking Koro Sea.  The Spa and Sanctuary of Namale Resort is located on a volcanic rainforest and features luxurious treatments that are inspired by healing traditions and ancient wisdoms.

Another top resort for relaxation packages is the Taveuni Island Resort & Spa. This is a fairly small but exclusive resort and offers the ultimate tropical island experience. It operates for all visitors that are over the age of 15. It is a five star luxury accommodation with 10 acres of immaculately manicured tropical gardens. The resort only accommodates 12 couples so it can provide the ultimate service to guests.

How much will Fiji cost?

In general, a relaxation package in Fiji will be mid-ranged priced, unless you are looking for a world-class five star resort which will cost quite a bit more. There is limited budget resorts however, more and more are popping up, especially in remote areas.

Fiji is cheaper than most of the other Pacific countries but it does not provide visitors with the same value as other international destinations, ie Southeast Asia. If you are a backpacker, you might be surprised to learn that Fiji is not a destination where you can travel on $20. Regardless of the budget you have in mind, your accommodation will be your greatest expense. Shops, transportation and restaurants will offer extremely good value unless you are in a tourist location – that is far more expensive. For travelers who are solo and looking for a mid-range vacation, they can expect to pay about $180 a day, whereas couples can expect costs of about $120 per person per day. These costs include comfortable transportation, three meals and transportation.

About Bali

Bali is a province of Indonesia. Bali itself is an island and also includes a few of the smaller islands that surrounds it. It is about eight degrees south of the equator and the central mountains have peaks that are over 3000 meters in elevation. Bali has more than 500 reef-building coral species – about seven times as many that there are in the whole Caribbean.

Bali is the largest tourist destination in Indonesia and it is easy to see why. Bali is surrounded by colorful coral reefs and beautiful beaches. The beaches in the south end of Bali typically have white sand whereas those beaches in the west and north usually have black sand. Approximately 80% of the economy in Bali depends on tourism . In 2010, Bali received the award of Best Island from Travel and Leisure.

Leisure Activities in Bali

Leisure and relaxation is paramount in Bali. It’s won awards for its attractive surroundings, excellent restaurants, friendliness of local people and the tourist attractions. There are many places to relax and un-wind in Bali.

• Ubud

If you are looking for culture, then Ubud is an ideal spot. A bicycle ride is a great way to see this town and the artistic villages surrounding it. Ubud is home to Goa Gajah, one of the most unique holy places in Bali. The village of Petulu is a small village that offers holy scenes and is worth taking a bicycle ride through.

• Tanah Lot

Tanah Lot is a special place in Bali. It encompasses many things that makes it so special: magic, romance, strangeness and magnificence. It is a rock formation and is home to the pilgrimage temple Pura Tanah Lot. It is a cultural icon and popular tourist location.  

• Menjangan Island

Menjangan Island is quite the departure from the busyness of the south. It is a fairly small island about five miles away from the main island. If snorkeling is your idea of relaxation then Menjangan Island is the perfect spot for you. It is full of bright coral reefs and strange but gorgeous fish.

Leisure Vacation Packages in Bali

As Bali bombards you with its beauty, culture and beaches, what better place to relax and un-wind? There are plenty of leisure and relaxation packages to choose from in Bali.

International Expeditions offers some different kinds of tour packages in Bali. You can see the wildlife of Bali including large Komodo dragons and carnivorous lizards. You can also take snorkel excursions to see the fantasy world below the waves. On all tours, experience the everyday life of villagers and see the intricate and complex temples that are the backbone of the Balinese Hinduism.

The Conrad Bali offers highly personalized luxurious relaxation packages. At this award-winning resort, you can experience its timeless style and beach of beautiful golden sand. It has a “Luxury of Being Yourself” package that begins before even the check-in starts. CHoose from bathroom amenities, vegan-friendly dishes, spa treatment and so on.

How much will Bali cost?

Bali can be considered reasonably priced in comparison to other top vacation destinations across the globe. Hotel rates range from about $20 a night for a basic but clean room with air-conditioning, private bath and small terrace to well over $2500 a night for a one bedroom cottage or villa including a private pool in a walled tropical garden with stunning views and spectacular 24/7 5-start service.

For transportation,the rates are fairly reasonable. In all the tourist areas, drivers will offer “transport, transport” but keep in mind that the rates will be negotiable. Sometimes it is more relaxing to have a guide show you the sites while driving you to your destination. This can be a very affordable option – just be sure that the gasoline is included in the fare.

About Easter Island

Easter Island is a Polynesian island that is part of Chile. It is located in the southeastern part of the Pacific Ocean, at the most southeastern point of the Polynesian Triangle. It is a volcanic high island that houses 3 extinct volcanoes. The island is classified mainly as a tropical rainforest climate however it borders on a humid sub-tropical climate.

Easter Island is one of the world’s most remote inhabited islands. The closest inhabited island to Easter Island is Pitcairn Island, which is 1289 miles away. It is home to 5800 residents. History says that Easter Island’s inhabitants have been through many precipitous declines in its population due to: famines, civil war, epidemics, slave raids, near deforestation and slave raids.

Leisure Activities in Easter Island

There are many places to see on Easter Island that would fall into the leisure and relaxation category of vacations.

• Rano Raraku

Easter Island is most famous for its 887 monumental statues that are called moai. Most of these moai come from the volcano Rano Raraku. In this unique location, hundreds of artists and sculptors over hundreds of years worked to produce gigantic statues of the volcanic stone. Visitors can walk through the internal and external slopes of the extinct volcano and witness these impressive statues.

• Hanga Roa

Hanga Roa is the capital city of Easter Island. This is an impressive town to walk through and experience its culture. There is a beautiful church to see as well as the ceremonial complex of Tahai. This complex includes the remains of old houses and well-known boathouses where notable islanders lived along with their families.

• Anakena Beach

Anakena Beach is a popular beach for visitors to experience. It is blessed not only with two significant archeological sites but it also has beautiful soft white sand and lapis lazuli-colored water. It is the perfect beach for some leisurely diving in the gorgeous water or some relaxation on the perfect sand.

Leisure Vacation Packages in Easter Island

Considering the size and remoteness of the island, vacation packages are not plentiful on Easter Island as they are on other islands across the globe. The Explora Rapa Nui is a five star hotel on the island that offers fifteen exploration tours to be interspersed through relaxation periods. Each afternoon a tour guide will meet visitors in the lobby and enlighten them with the explorations that will be held the following day. The Explora hotel houses only 30 rooms but provides amenities such as a swimming pool, bar and solar-heated jacuzzi. It offers relaxing massages in the Hare Taheta. Luxury is imperative when it comes to the food the hotel serves.

The Tupa Hotel offers forty rooms in different categories (depending on price). It is away from the bustle of Hanga Roa and visitors will experience quiet and calm. Their packages include daily breakfast, private bathrooms, free wifi in common areas and free transportation to and from the airport.

Hare Noi  is one of the top-rated hotels on Easter Island. Hare Noi offers only a few rooms but plenty of opportunities to see Easter Island.

How much will Easter Island cost?

Easter Island is somewhat known for its higher costs. Lan is the one and only airline to fly in Rapa Nui on Easter Island and therefore there are a limited number of flights. Roundtrip airline tickets for economy class can range between $500 and $900. However, on the flight, travelers will be served good food, their own tv screens and entertainment options.

Accommodations can be expensive, depending on what you are looking for. The Explora Rapa Nui  is expensive at well over $2000 for accommodations alone for a week. Other hotels are more reasonable at $700 plus for a weeks accommodation. Food can typically be more expensive as well. There are many little supermarkets in the larger towns and the prices in each differ quite a bit. It is advisable to check around at different stores before making a purchase.

About Maldives

The Maldives is located in the Arabian Sea – Indian Ocean are and is an island nation. It encompasses a territory that is spread over about 35,000 square miles, making the Maldives one of most geographically dispersed countries in the world. It has a population of almost 350,000 residents. The Maldives is made up of 1192 islands of which only 192 of the islands are inhabitable. The capital city, Male has a population itself of about 105,000 people.

The Maldives’ average ground elevation is only 4 feet 11 inches above sea level, making it the lowest country on the planet. It is a grave concern of the people of Maldives that the land will eventually sink into the water, due to the rising sea levels. There are plans to look at purchasing new land in other countries because of this possibility. The Maldives also faced a natural disaster in 2004 that caused significant damage across the country – more than $400 million of damage. A tsunami destroyed 6 islands, caused 14 islands to be evacuated, and seriously damaged critical infrastructure on 57 islands. 

Leisure Activities in Maldives

For many people in the world, the Maldives is considered to be the best place to relax from the chaotic lifestyle the modern world provides and the premier beach destination. There are over 100 island resorts to choose from; each resort having its own distinct character. Regardless of the island you select, you will be presented with a perfect coral beach, warm waters, lush tropical vegetation, outstanding service at a fantastic hotel.

• North Male’ Atoll

On the North Male’ Atoll you can find an ultra-luxe resort called “One & Only Reethi Rah“. This private island resort is very glitzy and very cool. The accommodation and spa treatment facilities are the absolute in luxury. Of the 130 villas, most of them are over water, along with the yoga pavilion and some of the spa treatment rooms. This island resort is the ultimate in leisure and relaxation.

• Makunudu Island

The resort on Makunudu Island features a total of thrity-six deluxe bungalows set in lush tropical vegetation. For the utmost relaxation, you can have exotic room service for breakfast on the beach, while the sun rises in front of your room. This resort also offers the Makunudu Diving School for those looking to have a leisurely dive. This international diving school is of the highest standard. Other opportunities include picnics on a desert island and full moon barbecues. With the palm trees swaying, the sandy white beaches and warm tropical breeze , Makunudu Island offers a haven from the modern world’s endless pressures.

Leisure Vacation Packages in Maldives

As there are only a handful of places in the world that offers such a unique combination of powder white sand and turquoise sea along with a “never- ending summer” for the whole year, the Maldives offers the ultimate package of leisure and relaxation – regardless of which island you choose to visit.

One relaxation package that can be found in the Maldives is at the resort Angsana Ihuru. Besides the wonderful hotel and its luxury services and amenities, the spa places a special emphasis on aromotherapy and touch in order to fully pamper the whole body, mind and soul. The spa was created and is now managed by the Banyan Tree Spa – the world-renowned and award-winning spa. Spa packages are designed for different budgets and wants. 

Cocoa Island by COMO is a very intimate island resort that offers relaxation packages. They have 33 over-water suites which allows you to slip into the turquoise lagoon from your suite, powder white sand and holistic wellness treatments for the utmost offering in relaxation. Cocoa Island resort offers 2 different dive packages (depending on diving experience) for those seeking a leisure vacation package.

How much will Maldives cost?

For many people, a vacation to a Maldives island will be the vacation of a lifetime. It is not a cheap destination and is not budget-friendly in any way. Although the vacation may be well worth the money considering the luxury you will receive on any of the astounding islands. It might be possible to get a deal on flight and accommodation on one of the islands however, you will spend at least that amount or even more on food and drink while you are staying there. As a very rough estimate, per day expenses range from $100 a day for the most basic stay, between $200 and $500 for a mid-range stay and for a luxury stay, expect to pay well over $1000 per day. For those with a somewhat modest budget, choose an all-inclusive package – you will pay plenty up front but will spend very little while on your vacation.

About Scotland

Scotland is an historical haven for those history buffs out there! Scotland is famous for its traditional Highland games, historic castles as well as beautiful lochs. Scotland is part of the United Kingdom and has a very interesting history leading up to the modern day Scotland. It occupies the northern third of the island of Great Britain and shares a border with England towards the south. Its head of state is currently Queen Elizabeth II, the monarch of the United Kingdom.

The climate in Scotland tends towards temperate and oceanic, and can change fairly suddenly. Not surprisingly considering all the tourism, there are 5 main airports that serves about 150 international destinations. This makes traveling to and around Scotland very accessible.

Historical Activities in Scotland

There are plenty of historical sites to check out in Scotland. The history behind the buildings, castles, churches and other buildings will astound any history buff.

• Edinburgh

Edinburgh is chock full of impressive attractions for history buffs. The city is quite compact in nature, making it easy to fit in an itinerary of activities in a day in Scotland’s capital city. A visit to Ediburgh Castle is a must do for anyone, much less a history buff. This castle is home to the world-famous Stone of Destiny. Other places to see in Ediburgh include the National Museum of Scotland that has been fully refurbished and a tour of the Scotch Whisky Experience. Pick up some souvenirs at the end of the day on the Royal Mile.

• Aberdeen

Aberdeen is another must-see historical location in Scotland. The Balmoral Castle has been the Scottish Home of the Royal Family for years and is worth a visit. St. Machar’s is a beautiful Church of Scotland church that dates back to the 12th century. It boasts an unique heraldic ceiling as well as a fortified west front. This ancient church is still a living place of worship.

• The Highlands

The Highlands is an inspiring and gorgeous region that has a fascinating history and ancient landscapes. In Inverness in the Highlands, there is one of the most well-preserved Bronze Age burial sites in all of Scotland.

 Historical Vacation Packages in Scotland

There is an abundance of places and historic vacation packages in Scotland to choose from. There are self-drive tours, guided tour vacations, stays in castles and cottages and even brochs.

The Brochs Of Coigach offers an unusual and unique vacation package. What better way to experience historic Scotland than staying in a broch? A broch is a roundhouse from the Iron Age and are thousands of years old. The modern day brochs are spacious and warm, equipped with high-efficiency kitchens, wood-burning stoves and under-floor heating. 

Clans and Castles is a vacation company who offers many different kinds of packages that are perfect for history buffs. They can arrange self-drive tours for those who would like to tour around themselves, seeing the sights they have chosen or guided tours that offer the most popular historic destinations in Scotland. Their specialty packages however, are Scottish castle holidays where travelers can stay at different castles for their holiday or even rent out an entire castle for their entire stay.

How much will Scotland cost?

Scotland is a travel destination that can be priced towards any budget. It is easy to take self-guided tours of the country, stay at hostels, and visit free historic attractions if you are budget-conscious. These vacations will still cost a few hundred dollars plus the airfare. For a mid-range vacation, expect to pay about $100-150 a day per person for food, drink and accommodations. Of course if you are interested in renting out a castle or even staying at a castle for part of your trip, expect to pay quite a bit more. Renting a castle for a week will typically cost over $5000; keep in mind though that the castles usually accommodate at least 10 people so if you have a group of people sharing the cost, it becomes much more reasonably priced.

About Russia

Russia is known as the largest country in the world, comprised of 6,592,800 square miles. Russia is so large that it spans 9 time zones. It has 101 nature reserves, 41 national parks and thousands of inland bodies of water and rivers. Russia provides one of the largest resources of surface water in the world and contains almost a quarter of the liquid fresh water in all of the world.

The agriculture in Russia has been steadily growing over past years. Once it was a grain importer and today it is the 3rd largest grain exporter, just behind EU and the US. Also the production of meat in Russia has increased significantly over the last 5 or 6 years. These increase has contributed to Russia’s expanding economy. Another interesting fact is that, based on per capita basis, Russia has more hospitals, healthcare workers and physicians  than anywhere else in the world.

Historical Activities in Russia

Russia offers some of the world’s most historical sights for history buffs looking to experience some of the heritage sights of the world.

• Moscow

Moscow houses some of the most important historical events in the country since the thirteenth century. The Kremlin is one of those sites. The Kremlin was built between the fourteenth and seventeenth centuries and was the home of the Great Prince. At this site, on the Red Square, lies St. Basil’s Basilica – one of the most gorgeous Russian monuments. Another site is the Novodevichy Convent which is linked to the Kremlin and was used by the women of family of the Tsar and aristocracy. It is rich with artefacts and paintings as well of Russian architecture.

• Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg has been called the “Venice of the North” as it has a plethora of bridges and canals, which were built around the early 1700s under Peter the Great. The Russian architecture shows its heritage in the sites such as the Winter Palace, the Hermitage, the Marble Palace and the Admiralty.

• Novgorod

Novgorod was Russia’s first capital in the nineth century. It was a center for Orthodox spirituality as it is surrounded by monasteries and churches. Novgorod houses medieval monuments that demonstrates cultural creativity and remarkable architecture throughout the city.

Historical Vacation Packages in Russia

All Russia Tours offers short sightseeing tours, spend a day in the top historical cities in Russia such as Saint Petersburg and Moscow, among other tours that you can customize to suit your wants. Rivers and canals tours through major cities and even nighttime tours as the cities will be very different at night as opposed to during the day. “Be Our Guest” tour is a fantastic 9 day tour that will hit all highlights in 3 of Russia’s major historical cities.

Hop on-hop off tours such as City Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-off are a great alternative to arrange, tour-guided tours. You can pick and choose which sights you would like to see.

Another option for seeing Russia is on a cruise and you can sail through all the highlights of the country. Do some research on the cruise line you are going on as some cruise lines offer a different kind of excursion  that allows visitors to become “cosmonauts” for a day. This unique experience takes place in Moscow at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center. This is a great excursion for history buffs as the base was a secret training base during the cold war.

How much will Russia cost?

Russia’s major cities, such as Moscow and Saint Petersburg are not cheap places to visit. Like many countries, once you get away from the major tourist sights, it can start to get more reasonably-priced. Russia isn’t as expensive as some international destinations such as the UK but prices are comparable to that of New York.

For food and drink, be sure to check the prices on the menu before choosing a restaurant to eat at. There are nice restaurants that cater more to the locals than tourists and if you find one of these, the prices will be much cheaper. For accommodations, consider renting an apartment by the day instead of staying at expensive hotels. Transportation is fairly reasonable, especially if you can haggle in Russian. But keep in mind there is also the metro that is quite affordable.

About Greece

Greece is a country that can be found in South-Eastern Europe, on the southern tip of the Balkan Peninsula. It is the meeting spot of 3 continents: Africa, Asia and Europe. It consists of 3 main geographical areas: a mainland that is the biggest geographical part of the country, a peninsula (Peloponnese) that is off the mainland with the canal of the Corinth Isthmus, and about 6,000 islands and islets that can be found scattered in clusters in the Ionian and Aegean Seas. Among these islands are Cyclade, Corfu, Rhodes, Crete and Dodecanese that are some of the most popular destinations in Greece.

Greece is one of Europe’s most mountainous countries with 80% of the country being hills or mountains. There is also about 10,000 miles of coastline, with almost 5,000 of those miles surrounding the islands of the Greek archipelago. This is truly unparalleled in all of the continent of Europe.

Historical Activities in Greece

It is no wonder that Greece is one of the top places to see for history buffs considering the great world heritage monuments, vibrant traditional culture and wonderful landscapes. There are certain places within Greece that are a must see for those seeking history.

• Athens

Athens itself is filled with historical sites but one of its main attractions is the Acropolis. This enthralling monument demonstrates the achievements of the ancient Greek civilization and is a collection of perfectly balanced and massive in size of architectural masterpieces. These masterpieces were finished by the 5th century BC and are some of the most influential expressions of Greek architecture and Classical Greek aesthetics. The Parthenon is just one of ancient structures.

• Corinth

Corinth was of major importance to the ancient Greeks and Romans. It has some of the most well-preserved historical sites in all of Greece. The city has grown significantly in population over recent years. In Corinth you can find the ancient ruins of Corinth, which has a base of rock called the Rock of Acrocorinth. On the Acrocorinth itself is the Temple of Aphrodite. It also hosts the Temple of Apollo and Temple of Octavia. It was a very important city of ancient Greece and had a large role in Apostle Paul’s missionary work.

• Corfu

On the Island of Corfu, the Old Town of Corfu is a must see for history buffs as it has roots dating back to the 8th century BC. It houses forts the island used to defend against the Ottoman Empire and these forts have been repaired since and some are open to tourists.

Historical Vacation Packages in Greece

Traveling in Greece is fairly relaxed, safe and can be very reasonably priced. Roads are extensive, allowing for easy travel across the country. Rail, ships and ferries are other common modes of transportation when traveling in Greece. This makes vacationing in Greece easy to plan yourself or you can choose to book a package with a travel company. If a visitor would like to create a package themselves, Greece is quite accessible as flights to the islands and mainland are frequent, as are ferries.

If you prefer to select a package from a travel company, there are plenty to choose from. True Greece offers private, customized trips among the mainland and the islands. With this company, you choose where you want to go and they will make it into a vacation package of a lifetime. This is a great experience for history buffs as the company will provide you with specific information on the places you have chosen to visit and indulge you in tidbits of any family history you might have there.

The National Hellenic Society offers a program called Heritage Greece 2014. This program offers students who have a Greek heritage to experience an unforgettable journey that is tailored to their roots. This once-in-a-lifetime allows students to explore archaelogical locations, learn language skills and strongly connect to their heritage.

Your Trip to Greece is tailor made travel. The company’s website lists the UNESCO Heritage Sites in Greece that travelers can choose from to customize your ideal historical vacation to Greece.

How much will Greece cost?

Since the adoption of the euro back in 2002, Greece is not quite as cheap of a country as it used to be. You might find some tiny restaurants that still offer hearty meals for decent prices however for the most part, eating out has become much more pricey. Accommodation costs have also increased significantly, with the budget options really not worth it and making mid-range options more worthwhile.

For very basic travel with absolutely no extras, it will cost about $75 a day for a single traveler. If you are planning on eating out, staying in your own room and traveling around to see some sights, expect to pay at least $140 a day. For more comfortable accommodations and better restaurants, this will cost you over $200 a day. These estimated budgets are for solo travelers traveling during the high season. For couples who share a room, the costs will go down quite a bit. Also, consider traveling during off-season if cost is an issue.

About India

India is considered to be the 7th largest country by area in the world. It is also the world’s 2nd most populous country with more than 1.2 billion people.  India is separated into 29 states. There is a mix of geographical areas along the mainland with 46% marshy shores, 43% sandy beaches and 11% rocky shores.

Four of the world’s religions originated in India – Jainism, Buddhism, Sikhism and Hinduism. India has the second largest work force in the world with 486.6 million workers. The modern India is quickly changing but also combines ancient tradition. Overcrowding, globalization and western influence has resulted in a paradox of crippling poverty and overwhelming prosperity.

Historical Activities in India

There is no lack of history across India. There are so many places to visit that demonstrates India’s history – here are a few.

• Agra

The main attraction in Agra is the Taj Mahal. This monument is a tomb that has houses the body of Mumtaz Mahal, the wife of the Mughal emperor named Shah Jahan. He had the tomb built as an ode to his awesome love for his wife. the Taj Mahal dates back to 1630AD and took over 22 years to build using 20,000 workers. This marble attraction is captivating as the color of it appears to alter as the light during the day changes.

• Hampi

Hampi was once the final capital of Vijayanagar who is one of India’s greatest empires but is now a laid-back village. The village offers some extremely impressive ruins from the 14th century that are intermingled with large boulders that are all over the beautiful landscape. These ruins stretch for almost ten miles and boasts more than 500 monuments.

• Ajanta and Ellora caves

Both of the Ajanta and Ellora caves can be found in the middle of nowhere. The Ellora caves consist of 34 caves and date between 6th and 11th centuries AD. The Ajanta caves consists of 29 caves and are older than the Ellora caves as they are from between the 2nd century BC and the 6th century AD. The Ajanta caves are incredibly rich in sculpture and paitnings whereas the Ellora caves are more renowned for the impressive architecture. Both sets of caves were amazingly crafted by hand, using only a chisel and hammer.

Historical Vacation Packages in India

Vacation packages to see India’s historical and heritage sights are plentiful.

Enchanting India allows you to create your ideal vacation package to India with a few steps: first you choose your interests (one of them being heritage and culture); secondly, choose the region(s) you wish to see and; thirdly,  choose your accommodation of choice; then select your budget. After submitting your contact information, the company will get in contact with you about what options would suit you. The alternative is to select from one of the world heritage trips within India, discovering some of the most ancient sights in India.

India Luxury Trains offers about 40 historical and heritage packages that you can select from and they range considerably between the number of days, from just a few to 25 days. They also offer heritage train packages, ranging from 2 to 6 day excursions. These heritage trains offer luxurious amenities and will stop in fantastic stations across India.

How much will India cost?

India has been considered a cheap vacation destination for years. Of course, there are the more expensive sights and these are usually the more popular tourist hot spots. If you are looking to keep your costs down, consider seeing other parts of India such as climbing in Ladakh which is in the northern part of India. You can stay and travel in India for up to $15 a day however, this is very basic travel. For $20 a day, you can travel more comfortably and for $50 a day, you can be sure that you will be more than comfortable. On the other side of the coin, there are palaces you can stay at close to Jaipur which are considered “7-star” luxury accommodations. These palaces are the most expensive lodging in the world.

About Canada

Canada is a country that is in North America. It is made up of three territories and ten provinces. Canada is quite large, in fact, it is the second largest country by total area in the world at 6.2 million miles in total. It is also the world’s 4th largest country by land area. Canada has a population of just over 35 million people and about 4/5 of the population lives within 93 miles of the US border.

Canada’s head of state is Queen Elizabeth II and it is a federal parliamentary democracy. It is known as one of the of the most multi-cultural and ethnically diverse countries in the world, resulting from the large-scale immigration from countries all over the world. It also has one of the largest advanced economies in the world. It relies mainly on the abundant natural resources and highly developed trade network found in the country.

Family Activities in Canada

Similar to the US, there are tons of fun things to do with your family while vacationing in Canada.

• Ontario

The province of Ontario is a great place to visit, with plenty of fun, kid-friendly things to do within a small area. In Toronto, the CN Tower  is a fantastic attraction for kids. There is a Glass Floor section on an observation deck so kids can see 148 stories down. Another thrill there is the Himalamazon motion theatre ride. The Toronto Islands with the Centreville Amusement Park Summer  offers fun that includes over 30 rides and games plus wading pools, bike rentals, and supervised beaches. Ontario Place is an unique amusement park open only during the summer including a giant soft climbing structure, foam ball play area, a drop tower and super slide just to name a few.

• Quebec

Quebec offers beautiful views from all over the province. Montreal has many fun things for families to do throughout the year. For instance, for the Hallowe’en season, visit the Botancial Gardens for two special activities: The Great Pumpkin Ball and the Magic of Lanterns. Old Montreal is another spot to check out – there is always something happening there, especially in the summer.

•  Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island has plenty of attractions, especially around Charlottetown. Some attractions include the Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place, Jurassic Bart’s Dinosaur Museum and Petting Farm, Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Odditorium, The Made Dr’s Spooky Haunted Mansion. Take a tour around the town on the Hippopotabus – an open bus tour.

Family Vacation Packages in Canada

There are many different ways to see the country of Canada while having fun with your family. Just a note, if you are looking to camp or take a road trip, it might be advisable to do so in the summer months. The winters can be harsh but they also provide some unique experiences, especially if you are from the southern part of the US and haven’t experienced a Canadian winter.

One road trip that might be fun is driving across the country, visiting some of the major cities in Canada. If done during the warmer months, camping might be a great way to experience the Canadian nature. It might take some extra planning, but it can be a fun road trip.

Via Rail offers some vacation packages so visitors can experience Canada by rail. Packages to see all of Canada from the Great Lakes to the Pacific Ocean start in New York. They also offer  hotel and rail packages for short getaways from 4 days or less or 5 days and longer.

There are also little getaway packages in places like Niagara Falls. Great Wolf Lodge is a popular place for a family getaway. This waterpark has activities for kids of every age with its square feet of water-packed fun. This resort includes massive slides for thrill seekers or even zero-depth entries for little kids.

How much will Canada cost?

In Canada, vacation packages are more costly than a lot of other international destinations. Your accommodations will likely be the biggest expense, followed closely by transportation costs. The most expensive provinces are British Columbia, Ontario and Alberta and the 3 territories will be even more expensive. The cheaper places to visit are the the Prairie and Atlantic provinces. A decent vacation including meals out and a car rental will be about $175-200 a day, whereas these costs can be decreased to about $90 a day by camping, self-catering and taking public transportation. Thankfully, discounts can be widely found for students, children as well as seniors which can help to reduce some of the costs. Also, a lot of the attractions offer family admission prices, which can also save families quite a bit of money.

About St. Lucia

St. Lucia can be found in the Eastern Caribbean Sea and is a piece of the Lesser Antilles. It is surrounded by Saint Vincent, Barbados and Martinique. It has a land area of about 240 square miles. The population is about 175,000 residents. The capital city is Castries. This sovereign island has seventeen electoral segments and each segment elects a Parliamentary Representative to the House of Assembly.

The country offers varied landscapes and diverse cuisine and culture. The cuisine is comprised of Indian, British, African, Spanish, French and Caribbean influences. Saint Lucia is a volcanic island, but one that is very mountainous – more so than most of the other Caribbean islands. The largest peak is Mount Gimie at 3120 feet above sea level. The island also hosts a drive-in volcano, one of the few in the world. The climate is quite tropical, with the wet season being shorter than the dry season. 

Family Activities in St. Lucia

Family activities in St. Lucia are top on the list for many families visiting St. Lucia – and they won’t be disappointed. Visitors will just have to decide which activities are right for them. The common ones are: snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea, hiking through nature or attending a music festival. If your family is looking for something different, check out some of these spots.

• Soufrière

Soufrière is located in the south-western part of the island. The Diamond Estate’s botanical gardens are located in Soufrière. This tourist spot is not just gardens, there is a breathtaking waterfall and impressive mineral baths that date back to 1784. These baths were built for King Louis XVI and his troops for therapeutic healing. Another tourist attracting are the Pitons. These two volcanic mountains are quite the attraction for families with children of all ages.

• Castries

Castries is the capital city of St. Lucia. It is a port of call for many cruise ships throughout the year. The ships dock at Pointe Seraphine, which is a duty free shopping center. Other attractions in Castries include the Derek Walcott Square, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Fort Charlotte and the City Library. If you prefer to relax on a beach, then Vigie Beach is perfect for families. 

Family Vacation Packages in St. Lucia

Many of the resorts in St. Lucia are all-inclusive. One such resort is St. James Club Morgan Bay. This resort is a favorite place for many couples and families. They offers a wide array of activities, water sports and amenities plus a great children’s program. Some of the amenities for kids are kiddie pools, activity centers and playgrounds.

Cap Maison Villa Resort and Spa is a luxury resort that welcomes families with children. It offers a good mix of family-friendly outdoor activities and accommodations. The rooms are quite private with most of them having their own plunge pools. The central building for all guests to use includes a game room, small spa and a pool area. A family package this resort offers includes children under 12 years old eating free, an evening of babysitting, an upgrade for the room as well as a fully-stocked family starter pack.

Mango Beach Inn located in Marigot Bay that welcomes children of all ages. It is just a quick stroll away from the boardwalk for some exploring of Rainforest Lagoon. A ferry, Captain Bravo, runs twenty-four hours a day. With a vacation package, visitors receive an un-limited ferry pass. There are lots of games available as well to keep children occupied. 

How much will St. Lucia cost?

If you are planning to visit St. Lucia, be prepared to spend more money than some of the other Caribbean destinations. In a recent survey, St. Lucia was found to be among the top 10 most expensive destinations in the world. Obviously there are some cheaper resorts and places to stay other than the large, luxury resorts but for the most part St. Lucia is not a cheap destination. When considering your trip, do your research and weigh the pros and cons of an all-inclusive versus just a room. In some hotels, there is a breakfast option which may be well worth the extra fee. Typically these breakfasts are quite good and you might be able to get away with just a quick bite for lunches.

About The Bahamas

The Bahamas is made up of 700 islands that are spread out over 100,000 square miles. These islands are a popular vacation retreat for millions and millions of visitors each year, in particular American citizens and cruise ship guests. The islands start about fifty miles from Florida. The Bahamas boasts the third largest barrier reef in the world. It has the clearest water on the whole earth, and has a visibility of more than two hundred feet.

Music is a huge role in the Bahamian culture, throughout the whole country. You will hear bits of Caribbean calypso, African rhythms, Bahamian goombay music with English folk songs. The music combines European colonial influences with the African musical traditions. As for Bahamian cuisine, visitors can find any type of food there, in addition to Bahamian food, which is quite spicy and flavored. If you are a seafood lover, the Bahamas is a good choice as seafood is a staple in the Bahamian diet.

Family Activities in The Bahamas

The islands of the Bahamas lure visitor to their beautiful beaches, clear water, duty free stores and scuba diving excursion as well as luxurious accommodations. There are mega resorts on the islands that attract families but those are not the only activities that families can participate in on the islands.

• Grand Bahama

Grand Bahama is a natural paradise, sprinkled with popular tourist spots. For instance the Lucayan National Park was used as the backdrop for the beach scenes in the “Pirates of the Caribbean” by Disney. There are nature tours that take travelers by kayak through the mangroves in the park, out to the beach. As well, the Dolphin Experience offers families a chance to interact with bottlenose dolphins in one of the Caribbean’s largest dive programs.

• Exuma

The Thunderball Grotto can be found in Exuma. This is a top scuba diving and snorkeling spot that appeared in 2 of the James Bond movies. The Thunderball Grotto is an underwater maze that is intricate and inticing. It is enclosed by cave ceilings that are sky-high and have holes that are just large enough to let a bit of sun in and provide reflections off the water. Kids will have a ball feeding bread crumbs to the fish. 

• Nassau

Nassau is home to the official Junkaroo night parade that occurs on December 26, New Year’s Day as well as during the summer. It is the biggest celebration of the year, with parades, costumes, dancing and music. If these times don’t suit your vacation schedule, then Paradise Island’s Marina Village offers mini versions of Junkaroos on a weekly basis.

Family Vacation Packages in The Bahamas

Family vacation packages in the Bahamas are plentiful. Do a bit of research though before booking, considering all of your options that are available to you.

Atlantis is a world-renowned resort in the Bahamas, offering loads of things for families to do. There is a massive underwater world with sea creatures and fish, waterfalls, fountains and waterslides among ten swimming areas plus seven acres of saltwater swimming areas. There is a watersports lagoon, a kids club for children, a teen club that offers computer games as well as a dance floor. Visitors to Atlantis will be hard-pressed to find another resort that will offer anything more for children than Atlantis does.

Another option is the Comfort Suites Paradise Island. This hotel is adjacent to Atlantis and allows all its visitors to use the Atlantis amenities, free of charge. This hotel is perfect for those who want to experience all that Atlantis has to offer without the busyness and noise of staying at Atlantis.

If you are looking for a quieter vacation package than a resort like Atlantis, the Hut Pointe Inn may be a good choice. These vacation packages include two bedroom suites with full kitchens – perfect for families. This boutique resort allows families to fully enjoy the island of Eleuthera. The resort is close enough to attend the local events that are family-friendly.

How much will The Bahamas cost?

There is no way of getting around it – the Bahamas is an expensive travel destination. It is popular with honeymooners, cruise ships and resorts, meaning that visitors should expect to pay more. Accommodations is expensive, even if you are planning on staying at a hostel or budget hotels. You are still looking at about $75 a night. As for food, expect to pay about $8 for a meal that includes fish, side dish and a dessert. If you are looking to eat American fare, these will be much more expensive – up to $25 a plate. Water taxis are frequently employed as a method of transportation. A simple ride on a mail boat between islands could be up to $45 each way. These are infrequent so many people turn to inter-island flights which are fairly reasonably priced and more time conscious.

About Turks & Caicos

Turks & Caicos is made up of forty islands and cays in the Caribbean. Only eight of the islands are inhabited. There are approximately thirty thousand year-round residents plus over two hundred thousand tourists each year. Tourism is an important part of the economy of Turks & Caicos. Salt production is also one of the major sources of revenue for the country. The islands of Turks & Caicos are surrounded by shallow waters, making them ideal for salt raking. One the downside, these waters become a nautical navigation nightmare. In the country’s history, there are more than one thousand ships that were wrecked to and from the country. The hurricane season is from June 1 to November 30 each year. Turks & Caicos boasts one of the highest crime-solved rates and the lowest crime rates in all of the Caribbean.

Family Activities in Turks & Caicos

Turks & Caicos is a well-known place for family vacations, with plenty of activities for people of all ages to do.

• Providenciales

On the island of Providencials, there are plenty of activities for families to participate in. If the family is interested in hanging out at the beach, Taylor Bay and Grace Bay are great places to go. Providenciales is also the home of Bight Reef. This reef has mini-caves to visit as well as plenty of crevices to swim into to see plenty of different kinds of fish.

• Little Water Cay

Little Water Cay is also known as Iguana Island. This cay hosts the remaining endangered population of Turks & Caicos’ rock iguanas. Another population family activity is walking along the long boardwalks on the cay and learn about the vegetation and wildlife that is native to Turks and Caicos.

• Grand Turk

Grand Turk hosts the Turks & Caicos National Museum. This museum showcases the natural history of the island as well as chronicling the lives of some of the country’s former slaves. It also shares information about the shipwrecks that have happened around the islands.

Family Vacation Packages in Turks & Caicos

The Beaches resort in Turks & Caicos offers all-inclusive vacations for the entire family. It boasts a 45000 square foot waterpark, twelve miles of beach surrounded by clear blue waters and activities for totos to tweens to teens to adults. For tots some of the activities include shows that feature Sesame Street characters. For tweens there is an XBox Play Lounge and for teens there is a disco called Liquid. Pirates Island is filled with pools, swimup soda bars and gigantic waterslides. The resort even offers vacation packages for single parents which can be uncommon in the Caribbean.

The Venetian on Grace Bay  includes 1, 2 or 3 bedroom suites that overlook the ocean. All suites come complete with washers and dryers, and kitchens. There are plenty of beach and water sports that are included in the vacation packages. Families can choose to dine in the suite with just a quick call in advance to ensure that there are groceries stocked prior to arrival. There are also six restaurants on-site to choose from.  before your arrival) or at one of six restaurants when staying at the Venetian.

How much will Turks & Caicos cost?

If you are traveling to Turks & Caicos on an all-inclusive package or if you are staying at a luxury resort, then the cost of your vacation increases quite a bit. Keep in mind that the Christmas time period is busy and is also one of the most expensive times of year to visit Turks & Caicos.  By shopping for groceries at stores, you will be able to cut down on some of your costs however, food is fairly expensive wherever you go on the islands. For example, a gallon of ice cream is about $10 and a box of cereal could run you $8. Be prepared to pay about $20 for an entree and soda at a decent restaurant; this can increase significantly (possibly up to $50) if you are looking for a meal at a fine restaurant.

About United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates is a country that is located in the Arabian Peninsula on the Persian Gulf. It borders Oman and Saudi Arabia and shares sea borders with Pakistan, Qatar and Iran. The total population of UAE is about 9.2 million. The capital is Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabin and Dubai are the centers of cultural and commercial activities. Abu Dhabi has a total area of 26,000 square miles, which is approximately 86.7% of the total area of the county (excluding the islands). Dubai on the other hand is quite small at 1500 square miles and is approximately 5% of the total area of UAE.

The United Arab Emirates is separated into 7 emirates. Dubai is the most populated Emirate as it hosts 35.6%of the entire UAE population. Abu Dhabi has 31.2% of the population. In the areas of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, over 2/3 of the entire UAE population lives in one of those 2 areas.

One note to make when planning your trip is to consider the tradition of Ramadan. For the entire month of Ramadan, it is illegal to eat, drink or smoke in public between sunrise and sunset. Of course exceptions are made for nursing mothers, pregnant women and children. This applies to everyone – even those who are non-Muslim so it is important to keep it in mind. Even having a drink of water in public during Ramadan could result in arrest.

Entertainment Activities in United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates offer plenty of entertainment and nightlife opportunities for those seeking a fun-filled vacation.

• Dubai

Dubai offers one of the most entertainment filled experiences of any country. A large expat community from the Western Hemisphere has transformed Dubai into fun party towns, with tons of nightclubs and bars to choose from. Visitors can choose from small local establishments with live entertainment like singers and dancers or classy cocktail lounges and bars that host bands from across the globe. Considering the strict alcohol laws, most of the bars and nightclubs are located in hotels. Another popular spot is the One & Only Royal Mirage private beach. This venue attracts the young and professional crown as they lounge around on the elegant white sofas listening to a DJ spin. Another option for those who are not familiar with Dubai is to take a Night City Tour by bus. This kind of tour offers a different experience by seeing the city illuminated while checking out the hottest entertainment locations. Dubai has some of the best and most glamorous nightclubs to “be seen” in. Beachside Jumeirah offers clubs where visitors can dance under the stars by the sea. Cosmopolitan Dubai fuses exotic styles in drinks, music and designs.

• Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi also offers a range of glamorous and swanky nightclubs. The city offers a smaller number of bars and clubs, considering the size of the city, however there are still plenty of entertainment options to choose from. Allure by Cipriana is a top hot spot in Abu Dhabi for a night out on the town. This venue is closely followed by Trader Vic’s in Beach Rotana, Hemingway’s located in the Hilton Abu Dhabi and the Belgian Beer cafe in the Intercontinental Hotel. For the more adventurous traveler, check out the different floors in the Emirates Plaza Hotel.

Entertainment Vacation Packages in United Arab Emirates

With the hustle and bustle of the United Arab Emirates, entertainment vacation packages in this country are plentiful. Emirates Palace is known around the world for its royalty service and luxurious surroundings. From the moment a visitor drives up the long, winding driveway, the glamour and luxury are evident. This vacation package is not all-inclusive and you will pay dearly to take advantage of all of the amenities the Emirates Palace has to offer. But be sure, you will reap the benefits of this hotel just by stepping in the front doors.

Another entertainment filled vacation package can be found at the Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa. This hotel is an island haven that has been designed to relieve the body and captivate the mind. It offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and majestic hilltops that were created between 5 and 10 million years ago.

Another top venue for vacations for entertainment-seeking individuals is The Burj Al Arab. From the first glance at this hotel, visitors will be stunned by the unusual design as it has been built to look like a giant sail that is billowing out. It reaches over 0ver ten thousand feet in the air. The suites are two floors each and offers opulent bedroom amenities. Vacation packages can include chauffeured Rolls Royces, Caspian caviar and butlers available to cater to your needs.

How much will United Arab Emirates cost?

The United Emirates can be very costly to visit. As with most places, accommodations will be the largest expense when traveling there. And in the UAE, it is incredibly expensive. Costs do drop if you go in July or August but the heat can be unbearable for some. And if you do go in these months, be sure to go to air-conditioned places as you will not enjoy your vacation without air-conditioning.

A way to save some money is to check out The Entertainer. This booklet contains lots of discounts and vouchers that will be worthwhile for tourists. If you are female, many places offer ladies nights which gives women free drinks just for attending their events.

Transportation can be relatively cheap, whether by metro of taxi. Food can be as expensive as you want. It can range from five star restaurants to cheaper and smaller establishments, depending on what you are looking for.

About The United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is a sovereign country that is located in Europe off the north-west coast. The country is comprised of Great Britain and Northern Ireland plus smaller islands. The countries include England, Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland. It shares a border with the Republic of Ireland and then is surrounded by water. The total area of the UK is 94,060 square miles. The capital city is London. It is ruled by a constitutional monarchy system that has a parliamentary system.

 The United Kingdom is an important global player, with the world’s 6th largest economy in the world. It has considerable powers of military, economics, scientific and political influences. Interestingly, the UK has sovereignty over other territories that are not part of the United Kingdom. There are 17 such territories, some of them include Turks and Caicos, Bermuda, the Cayman Islands and the British Virgin Islands.  

 Entertainment Activities in The United Kingdom

There are many of entertainment-filled sites to visit in the United Kingdom.

• Dublin

Dublin is a hot spot for those seeking entertainment such as nightclubs and pubs. The Temple Bar district is renowned for its nightlife. This major nightlife center offers tourists with plenty of restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Temple Bar preserved it’s medieval street pattern and has maintained its narrow cobbled streets. This is Dublin’s cultural quarter. Some places that are worth the stop include: The Porterhouse, The Temple Bar Pub, the Quays Bar and the Turk’s Head.

• London

London boasts some of the hottest bars in the United Kingdom. One of these bars is the Boisdale. This bar features a Scottish-themed design with an extensive drink menu. The drink menu is more of an encyclopedia than it is a drink menu. It even includes the history of various whiskys  and individual tasting notes. Another venue for entertainment seekers is the Booking Office. This restaurant/bar has been touted to be dramatic and magnificent.

• Wales

A tiny beach bar in Wales has been named as one of the best beach bars in the world – beating out beach hotspots in the Caribbean, Florida and Australia. The Ty Coch Inn is Welsh for “Red House”. This bar overlooks the Irish Sea and the sand of the Porthdinllaen.

Entertainment Vacation Packages in The United Kingdom

For those entertainment-seeking visitors, check out some of the vacation packages in the United Kingdom. For instance, Warner Leisure Hotels offer entertainment breaks at their 13 hotels that can be found across the UK. The hotels are categorized according to themes: character hotels, historic hotels and coastal resorts. For these packages, visitors spend the days as they please – sightseeing, shopping and so on. Come the evening though, the hotels offer impressive selections on their menu prior to enjoying the live entertainment for the evening. Common entertainment in the evening include stand up comedy, live music as well as celebrity stars.

Leisureplex has hotels all across Great Britain. At each of the Leisureplex hotels there are entertainment shows five evenings a week. Leisureplex recognizes that entertainment is important for many travelers but also recognizes that some people prefer solitude in the evenings. Travelers can choose the entertainment they wish to participate in. There is organized entertainment throughout the day for adults and children as well as entertainment in the evenings. With having dedicated entertainment for children, it gives parents time to enjoy their holiday as well.

How much will The United Kingdom cost?

Whether or not the United Kingdom is expensive depends on whereabouts you are looking to visit. The top tourist areas such as Dublin and Ireland can be very expensive. In London, the average hotel price is $177 a night. London is definitely expensive – it is on the top 20 list of the world’s most expensive places to visit. In order to save money in London, travelers will have to stay in not-so-great hotels and greasy pub food. Wales is similarly expensive. The costs of fuel and hotels are the top costs. Travelers can find cheaper costs when they travel outside the major tourist centers. In Ireland, one can find local restaurants and bed and breakfasts that are in smaller towns that are much more reasonably priced.

About Jamaica

Jamaica is an island in the Caribbean Sea. It is the 3rd largest island in the Greater Antilles as well as the Caribbean. This island is 4240 square miles. Kingston is the capital city of Jamaica. Jamaica is situated in the hurricane belt of the Atlantic Ocean. As a result of this, the island has suffered from significant storm damage. The climate is mostly tropical with humid and hot weather. The official language is English but Jamaicans have their own language known as Jamaican Patois, which is English-African Creole. Jamaica Patois has become known around the world due to the spread of Reggae music. Unfortunately Jamaica has one of the highest murder rates in all of the world. Some areas, such as Kingston, have high levels of violence and crime. Visitors should be aware of these violent areas and to avoid them if possible.

Entertainment Activities in Jamaica

Jamaica is known to come alive when the sun goes down. Reggae beats, dancing and live music on the beach from dusk til dawn can be found throughout the country.

• Montego Bay

Montego Bay offers plenty of choices for entertainment seeking patrons. At the Chillin Games Room there is a bar called “Hey, Chill Out man!”. This is a hand-crafted bar that is exclusive to the bar. Everything inside is made only of ice – even the shot glasses that are full of alcohol. They even provide patrons with gloves and coats for the experience. Other hot entertainment places in Montego Bay include the Jackpot Jungle and the Rum Jungle.

• Negril

Negril is home to the top beach bar in the world – the Pelican Bar. The Pelican Bar is very rustic and is a wooden bar built on a sand bar. It is located about half a mile out at sea. You can sunbathe, drink some Caribbean-style drinks, and relax in the shallow waters surrounding the bar. If you are looking for a top reggae performance, Alfred’s and Risky Business are among the top venues. The only major road in Negril is Norman Manley Boulevard, which houses both of these hot entertainment spots.

• Ocho Rios

Ocho Rios offers two types of nightclubs – Americanized or Jamaican. If you are looking for a true Jamaican experience, Amnesia is the place for you. Amnesia is a classic Jamaican nightclub and has been around for years. It offers theme nights such as ladies night on Thursdays, after-work parties on Friday and oldies jams on Sundays. Of course on Saturday there is a “dress to impress” dance marathon that goes all night.

And don’t forget about Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville! These beach bars can be found in major cities across Jamaica and are known for their Caribbean-style drinks.

Entertainment Vacation Packages in Jamaica

Beaches Resorts offer two resorts in Jamaica – one in Ocho Rios  and the other in Negril. These resorts have loads of entertainment for people of all ages – children, teens, young adults and adults. Kids can have their own parties with Sesame Street shows, talent contests and so on. Teens can make new friends dancing at Liquid – a nightclub designed just for teens. There are also theme nights to participate in and of course, the Unique Beach Party. Each week at the resort there is an extravagant beach party that has food and drinks, fire eaters, limbo dancers – all under the stars by the ocean. All of these entertainment options are included in any of the vacation packages at the Beaches resorts.

Hedonism II is known to be the hottest place in Negril. This all-inclusive resort is widely-known for its raunchy and wild parties. But keep in mind it is a nudist resort. If you stay at the resort, your vacation packages includes access to these hot parties as well as all the food and drinks offered. If you choose not to stay at this resort, the pass to get into the party will cost you $75 however, this price includes all drinks and food.

How much will Jamaica cost?

Some people who travel to Jamaica would prefer to take all the unexpected out of the trip’s costs and therefore choose an all-inclusive resort. Typically though, visitors can get by on much less than they would pay for an all-inclusive package. By choosing not to participate in an all-inclusive program, visitors have the option of when to indulge and when to be a bit more conservative with their money. Even if you are a true budget traveler, you can still expect to spend at least $35 a day. For food, each meal will cost about $10 per person and for the better restaurants as much as $60 a meal. Car rentals are typically expensive (starting about $45 a day for a small vehicle) so taxis or public transportation is your better bet. Keep in mind that taxis for tourists can get expensive quickly whereas public transportation is very cheap.