Travel accommodation is a major expenditure. So one wants to find a Tokyo cheap hotel - also comfortable with competent staff able to consult in city trips and distant sights.
Choose a hotel near the city part you want to inspect or from where you can fast get off by subway or bus. In frequent travels out of town look for a hotel near a railroad or bus station. It'll save you road time greatly. If the places you want to visit are outside Tokyo, use the Japan Rail Pass to save on transport.
There're 4 basic methods:
1. Web booking services. Here're some:
* HostelWorld.com provides on-line confirmed bookings for hostels, budget accommodation centres and package tours.
* HostelBookers.com is the independent hostel booking site that has no booking fees. With youth hostels and cheap accommodation in over 2,500 destinations worldwide, our aim is to be the number one site for student travel, backpackers and for the general traveller.
* HotelsCombined.com is a search engine that you can use it to find hotel availability and rates, and to compare prices and offers from multiple merchants.
2. Hotel online catalogs. Reservation is at the given phone N. Here're some:
* AsiaRooms.com
* J-Hotel.or.jp
3. Guidebooks for hotel search.
* Lonely Planet (LP) is one of the largest travel guidebook publishers in the world. It was the first popular series of travel books aimed at backpackers and other low-cost travelers. As of 2008, it published about 500 titles in 8 languages, with annual sales of more than six million guidebooks.
* National Geographic brings over a century of incomparable travel expertise to today's sophisticated globe-trotters. Each National Geographic Traveler features: detailed background and site descriptions, mapped walking and driving tours, fascinating vignettes on history, culture, contemporary life, a 60-page directory of visitor information, including notable hotels and restaurants, entertainment, and shopping.
* Rough Guides is a guidebook which cover more than 200 destinations. Initially, the series was aimed at low-budget backpackers, but they are now marketed to travellers on all budgets. The initial focus on travel has broadened to a coverage of reference subjects, including music and a varied general reference list on topics such as film, literature, popular science, ethical living, etc.
4. Hotel booking at a tourist office.
Things to notice:
Pets
Very few Japanese hotels admit pets. To bring a pet into the country, you need its health certificate, 12-hour airport quarantine and a 2-week home quarantine.
Hotel safe
Keep your valuables in the room or hotel deposit. Although Japan is rather quiet, being on the safe side is always good.
Kids
Hostels don't admit kids under 4. Check their admittance to hotels.
Meals
Breakfast and dinner aren't usually covered by the room price, unlike ryokan (small private hotels) where they're often served to rooms.
Check in/check out
Their time usually differ by 1-3 hours. Besides, at night some hotels close.
Hotel choice
Read recent user comments thoroughly about service quality, latest hotel problems and so on to make a final decision afterwards.
Hotel reach
Carry the following info:
* voucher
* hotel address and detailed route from a subway or bus station
* Tokyo subway bilingual map.
Note that few Japanese know English. So always keep the hotel address and map in Japanese. When hard to find the hotel, take a taxi.
Have a nice stay in Tokyo!
Monday, September 6, 2010
Austin Hotels
Many of the historic buildings in Austin are either privately owned, have been turned into modern-day businesses, or are open to the public in the form of museums. Luckily for those looking to actually live in such a building, even if for just one night, both the Driskill hotel and the Stephen F. Austin hotel are waiting downtown.
In 1886, cattle baron Jesse Driskill purchased the land, and built the Romanesque Driskill hotel in the heart of downtown Austin. Driskill, who had provided beef to the confederate army throughout the civil war, found himself fairly wealthy, and spent $350,000 on the building, and an additional $50,000 on furnishing his upscale hotel. Unfortunately for Driskill, the $2.50 to $5.00 per night charge was out of reach for most staying in town, and well over the 50 cents per night fee that most other hotels were charging at the time. A year after opening the hotel, Driskill had a cattle-killing drought which wiped out most of his savings, and he sold the hotel to his brother-in-law Doc Day in 1888 (though rumor has it the hotel was lost in a poker match).
The hotel went through a variety of owners throughout the 20th century, and in 1969 when a large renovation fell through, most of the hotel’s furnishings were sold, and the hotel was scheduled for demolition. Austin, being a city to stand behind a good cause, ended up raising $2 million dollars to save the historic hotel, and Braniff International Hotels purchased the building in 1973. In 2005, Lowe Enterprises purchased the Driskill for a reported $55 million dollars, and currently runs the hotel.
For Austinites, and those visiting Austin, staying at the Driskill is a treat, with many old furnishings, and its original upscale opulence still intact. With suite rates hovering around $2500, some might opt to take in the Driskill’s beauty while sipping on a cocktail in the lounge or with a nice dinner at the Driskill Grill. The Driskill is also considered one of Austin’s most haunted places. Though the current owners don’t like to advertise this fact, a quick check in with the concierge will get the curious a list of supernatural tales about the old building.
Just a few blocks from the Driskill lies another of Austin’s grand hotels, the Stephen F. Austin, at the corner of East 7th Street and Congress Avenue. This landmark hotel opened in 1924 to bring more lodging to town. What started as an 11 story hotel quickly grew to 16 stories on the site of the old G.A. Bahn Optical and Diamond Co. and the Keystone Hotel. Much like the Driskill’s elegance, the Stephen F. Austin was decked out in granite floors and marble staircases, oriental rugs and Italian chairs.
Though the hotel has had its share of owners over the years, the hotel still holds many of its original features, though each owner has added their own flair. In 1997, the hotel’s owners Highgate Holdings, brought the Stephen F. Austin back to its original opulent state by following the original architectural plans of the building. Now the hotel is a mix of turn-of-the-century charm, and state of the art amenities, drawing a similar elite crowd as the Driskill.
Today, a table at the second floor veranda overlooking Congress Avenue is hard to come by, and was once the area where oil and cattle deals were made. Also the hotel’s restaurant directly below the veranda, the Roaring Fork, adds their own Texan twist to many upscale menu items, such as grilled jalapeno shrimp and green chile macaroni.
Both the Driskill and the Stephen F. Austin provide a chance to relive the ritzy past of the city, whether staying in a room or just stopping in for a drink or a bite to eat.
In 1886, cattle baron Jesse Driskill purchased the land, and built the Romanesque Driskill hotel in the heart of downtown Austin. Driskill, who had provided beef to the confederate army throughout the civil war, found himself fairly wealthy, and spent $350,000 on the building, and an additional $50,000 on furnishing his upscale hotel. Unfortunately for Driskill, the $2.50 to $5.00 per night charge was out of reach for most staying in town, and well over the 50 cents per night fee that most other hotels were charging at the time. A year after opening the hotel, Driskill had a cattle-killing drought which wiped out most of his savings, and he sold the hotel to his brother-in-law Doc Day in 1888 (though rumor has it the hotel was lost in a poker match).
The hotel went through a variety of owners throughout the 20th century, and in 1969 when a large renovation fell through, most of the hotel’s furnishings were sold, and the hotel was scheduled for demolition. Austin, being a city to stand behind a good cause, ended up raising $2 million dollars to save the historic hotel, and Braniff International Hotels purchased the building in 1973. In 2005, Lowe Enterprises purchased the Driskill for a reported $55 million dollars, and currently runs the hotel.
For Austinites, and those visiting Austin, staying at the Driskill is a treat, with many old furnishings, and its original upscale opulence still intact. With suite rates hovering around $2500, some might opt to take in the Driskill’s beauty while sipping on a cocktail in the lounge or with a nice dinner at the Driskill Grill. The Driskill is also considered one of Austin’s most haunted places. Though the current owners don’t like to advertise this fact, a quick check in with the concierge will get the curious a list of supernatural tales about the old building.
Just a few blocks from the Driskill lies another of Austin’s grand hotels, the Stephen F. Austin, at the corner of East 7th Street and Congress Avenue. This landmark hotel opened in 1924 to bring more lodging to town. What started as an 11 story hotel quickly grew to 16 stories on the site of the old G.A. Bahn Optical and Diamond Co. and the Keystone Hotel. Much like the Driskill’s elegance, the Stephen F. Austin was decked out in granite floors and marble staircases, oriental rugs and Italian chairs.
Though the hotel has had its share of owners over the years, the hotel still holds many of its original features, though each owner has added their own flair. In 1997, the hotel’s owners Highgate Holdings, brought the Stephen F. Austin back to its original opulent state by following the original architectural plans of the building. Now the hotel is a mix of turn-of-the-century charm, and state of the art amenities, drawing a similar elite crowd as the Driskill.
Today, a table at the second floor veranda overlooking Congress Avenue is hard to come by, and was once the area where oil and cattle deals were made. Also the hotel’s restaurant directly below the veranda, the Roaring Fork, adds their own Texan twist to many upscale menu items, such as grilled jalapeno shrimp and green chile macaroni.
Both the Driskill and the Stephen F. Austin provide a chance to relive the ritzy past of the city, whether staying in a room or just stopping in for a drink or a bite to eat.
New York's Central Park Hotels
From the Affinia Gardens pillow menu to the 4,000-gallon fish tank in lobby of the Dream hotel, let us take you on a journey through some of New York's finest hotels.
After booking a discount flight ticket to New York we were looking for somewhere perfectly located and close to Broadway and the numerous New York City landmarks, and we found it at the Warwick New York on 54th Street. A palatial midtown Manhattan hotel popular with celebrities, the Warwick has kept its revered name as one of the best New York City hotels. Dream on 55th Street is an entirely new hotel experience, from its 4,000-gallon fish tank in the centre of the lobby area to the stylish Sarafina Restaurant, this is a hotel with a truly stimulating environment. Located near Central Park and the new Times Square and being perfect for the shopping areas of Madison and Fifth Avenue. Only being two train stops from Times Square and the Theatre District, Days Inn Broadway on 94th Street is only a short walk from Central Park, Riverside Park and numerous Manhattan restaurants and attractions.
Brand new, and only opened May 2007, the AKA Central Park provides four star apartment style accommodation. With 140 rooms to choose from, and only one block from New York City's Central Park. In the heart of it all is the Wellington Hotel on 55th Street, in amidst Broadway, Fifth Avenue, Central Park, the Time Warner Center and Lincoln Center. For a boutique hotel located in one of Manhattan's best neighbourhoods, try the Park 79 Hotel, with its luxurious amenities, charm and attractive room rates, it's surrounded by shops, museums and fine dining. The Buckingham is located in the heart of Manhattan's cultural district, near to the Museum of Modern Art and Carnegie Hall. Hotel Bentley with its breathtaking views of the city is to be found in Manhattan's Upper East Side, close to Bloomingdale's department store, the hotel has spacious guestrooms and a rooftop restaurant with amazing views of the city.
For cheap chic the Hudson on West 58th Street is the one, with its ceiling fresco by world-famous painter Francesco Clemente and enormous indoor outdoor private park, this hotel shows the diversity and boldness of the city. New York's Upper West Side is where you will find the Comfort Central Park West convenient for central bus and subway lines, the hotel is near Columbus Avenue with its shops, boutiques and popular restaurants. On Broadway is the Hotel Marrakech in Manhattan's trendy Upper West Side, newly renovated in the Moroccan theme, the Marrakech offers tranquillity within a setting of authentic Moroccan lamps, rich fabrics, ceramic tiles and dining tables.
On East 87th Street is the Franklin Hotel in Manhattan's prestigious Upper East Side, one of New York's most romantic hotels. 50 luxury rooms with colourful decor that feels like a home from home, yet still within walking distance of the world-famous museum mile and Central Park. Affinia Gardens with its inviting lobby relaxation area and tea bar, supply of books on wellness and relaxation and even an Affinia Pillow Menu to help you sleep better make this East 64th Street hotel the perfect opportunity for a peaceful hotel experience.
Well that's a brief tour of New York's Central Park hotels but we have more details at www.travel05.co.uk.
After booking a discount flight ticket to New York we were looking for somewhere perfectly located and close to Broadway and the numerous New York City landmarks, and we found it at the Warwick New York on 54th Street. A palatial midtown Manhattan hotel popular with celebrities, the Warwick has kept its revered name as one of the best New York City hotels. Dream on 55th Street is an entirely new hotel experience, from its 4,000-gallon fish tank in the centre of the lobby area to the stylish Sarafina Restaurant, this is a hotel with a truly stimulating environment. Located near Central Park and the new Times Square and being perfect for the shopping areas of Madison and Fifth Avenue. Only being two train stops from Times Square and the Theatre District, Days Inn Broadway on 94th Street is only a short walk from Central Park, Riverside Park and numerous Manhattan restaurants and attractions.
Brand new, and only opened May 2007, the AKA Central Park provides four star apartment style accommodation. With 140 rooms to choose from, and only one block from New York City's Central Park. In the heart of it all is the Wellington Hotel on 55th Street, in amidst Broadway, Fifth Avenue, Central Park, the Time Warner Center and Lincoln Center. For a boutique hotel located in one of Manhattan's best neighbourhoods, try the Park 79 Hotel, with its luxurious amenities, charm and attractive room rates, it's surrounded by shops, museums and fine dining. The Buckingham is located in the heart of Manhattan's cultural district, near to the Museum of Modern Art and Carnegie Hall. Hotel Bentley with its breathtaking views of the city is to be found in Manhattan's Upper East Side, close to Bloomingdale's department store, the hotel has spacious guestrooms and a rooftop restaurant with amazing views of the city.
For cheap chic the Hudson on West 58th Street is the one, with its ceiling fresco by world-famous painter Francesco Clemente and enormous indoor outdoor private park, this hotel shows the diversity and boldness of the city. New York's Upper West Side is where you will find the Comfort Central Park West convenient for central bus and subway lines, the hotel is near Columbus Avenue with its shops, boutiques and popular restaurants. On Broadway is the Hotel Marrakech in Manhattan's trendy Upper West Side, newly renovated in the Moroccan theme, the Marrakech offers tranquillity within a setting of authentic Moroccan lamps, rich fabrics, ceramic tiles and dining tables.
On East 87th Street is the Franklin Hotel in Manhattan's prestigious Upper East Side, one of New York's most romantic hotels. 50 luxury rooms with colourful decor that feels like a home from home, yet still within walking distance of the world-famous museum mile and Central Park. Affinia Gardens with its inviting lobby relaxation area and tea bar, supply of books on wellness and relaxation and even an Affinia Pillow Menu to help you sleep better make this East 64th Street hotel the perfect opportunity for a peaceful hotel experience.
Well that's a brief tour of New York's Central Park hotels but we have more details at www.travel05.co.uk.
Secure your Crete hotel reservation
If pristine sand and alluring blue waters drive you wild, then Greece is the place to head to. Most tourists think that Greece has a lot to offer historically. But not many know that it is also home to some of the best islands and beaches in the world. If you are a Sun and Surf lover, then you simply cannot stay away from Greece.
Of all the places in Greece, Crete holds a special place in my heart. While it has a flavor of the typical Greece, it has a special air of its own.
From the Minoan sites of Knossos and Phaistos to the Venetian castle, Crete is submerged in history and legends. It has a rich and colorful socio-cultural atmosphere that will leave you smitten by its grandeur.
If you are planning a vacation in Crete then it is best that you plan it well. If you reach Crete in the peak tourist season for example, you might find accommodation extremely hard to find and even if you do find it, it might be extremely expensive.
Hotels and reservation
Based on where you are holed up, you can choose from a range of hotels or villas in Crete.
For example, if you are staying in Chania, then the Akti Hotel which is just 50 meters away from the amazing beaches of Aghioi Apostoloi is a great place to stay in. They have 7 double bed studios and 4 apartments on offer. Apart from these, they also have the best when it comes to modern amenities and services. The view at dusk is simply stunning to say the least.
On the other hand if you are staying in Heraklion, then the Villa Bellevue Apartments in Agia Pelagia is worth a visit. Apart from a spectacular view of the sea, the apartments also have an extremely friendly and warm ambience.
Of all the places in Greece, Crete holds a special place in my heart. While it has a flavor of the typical Greece, it has a special air of its own.
From the Minoan sites of Knossos and Phaistos to the Venetian castle, Crete is submerged in history and legends. It has a rich and colorful socio-cultural atmosphere that will leave you smitten by its grandeur.
If you are planning a vacation in Crete then it is best that you plan it well. If you reach Crete in the peak tourist season for example, you might find accommodation extremely hard to find and even if you do find it, it might be extremely expensive.
Hotels and reservation
Based on where you are holed up, you can choose from a range of hotels or villas in Crete.
For example, if you are staying in Chania, then the Akti Hotel which is just 50 meters away from the amazing beaches of Aghioi Apostoloi is a great place to stay in. They have 7 double bed studios and 4 apartments on offer. Apart from these, they also have the best when it comes to modern amenities and services. The view at dusk is simply stunning to say the least.
On the other hand if you are staying in Heraklion, then the Villa Bellevue Apartments in Agia Pelagia is worth a visit. Apart from a spectacular view of the sea, the apartments also have an extremely friendly and warm ambience.
Budget and Youth Hostel Travel for Today's Traveler
People travel for all kinds of reasons, to have some time alone, or with a partner away from the stresses of every day life, for business, or simply because they enjoy traveling to experience different cultures, new things and enjoy meeting people.
The current global economy hasn't stopped people from pulling on their travelling boots, it has just led them to look for alternative options that are affordable. As the public realize more and more that hostels and youth hostels are a viable means of accommodation to travel the globe, travel trends are changing and youth hostelling is becoming more popular with travelers of all ages.
Hostels are generally a good place to make friends, to meet people from different cultures and swap information on destinations, clubs, museums and shows. They are unquestionably the place for socializing and as guests in hostels are independent travelers there are ample chances to get to know other vacationers.
Despite their budget price and low reputation, there are lots of hostels that offer a high standard of accommodation and provide good amenities. Also as competition in the travel industry increases and hostels widen their target market, thousands of customers each year are opting for discounted, economical accommodation, and in turn this is causing the standard and reputation of these places to get better.
Most of the leading hostel booking companies have a rating structure that can assist the traveler in finding accommodation to suit their needs, it also encourages the hostel owners to keep standards high as their ratings influence the amount of business generated from the site.
There are plenty of budget hotel chains such as Travelodge, Ibis and Jury's Inns and Hotel 81 chains, however many travelers still prefer to stay in hostels due to factors such as atmosphere, fun and the social experience of meeting other backpackers.
There are all kinds of hostels these days, city hostels are inclined to focus on the social characteristics of city life, and are a great source of information on city life. They are certain to be a lot noisier than a hostel in the country as they remain open 24 hours a day. A city hostel is perfect if you are travelling alone and looking for some company.
Country hostels are a totally different thing; mostly they are frequented by people who are there to do some serious walking or hiking. This means people are getting up early and sleeping early too, and enjoy the peace and quiet at nighttime.
Some hostels still maintain an age limit and give priority to younger travelers, in particular official youth hostels in Europe, but mostly these days' hostels welcome guests of any age and some will even provide accommodation for families with young children.
The main difference in most hostels is the type of accommodation on offer. There are many that still offer accommodation in dormitories, or shared rooms. Dorms can be any size and for males or females only or mixed. There are normally private rooms also available and many hostels now provide private rooms with en-suite facilities.
The atmosphere in a hostel is completely different to your typical hotel. Whereas hotels only tend to provide their customers a comfortable place to spend the night, hostels have a social atmosphere which is often gained from sharing sleeping arrangements, dining areas and populating the on-site bar.
Hostellers are generally more interested in meeting other people than your average tourist, so you can quite easily find yourself with a new group of friends to explore the city together with. For many people who travel alone the majority of the time this can be one of the most enjoyable parts of traveling.
If you are searching for a hostel in Europe or a budget hotel then look online where you will find an extensive coverage of hotels, budget youth hostels, and bed and breakfasts. A youth hostel review will soon let you see that they have a lot more to offer than your average hotel.
The current global economy hasn't stopped people from pulling on their travelling boots, it has just led them to look for alternative options that are affordable. As the public realize more and more that hostels and youth hostels are a viable means of accommodation to travel the globe, travel trends are changing and youth hostelling is becoming more popular with travelers of all ages.
Hostels are generally a good place to make friends, to meet people from different cultures and swap information on destinations, clubs, museums and shows. They are unquestionably the place for socializing and as guests in hostels are independent travelers there are ample chances to get to know other vacationers.
Despite their budget price and low reputation, there are lots of hostels that offer a high standard of accommodation and provide good amenities. Also as competition in the travel industry increases and hostels widen their target market, thousands of customers each year are opting for discounted, economical accommodation, and in turn this is causing the standard and reputation of these places to get better.
Most of the leading hostel booking companies have a rating structure that can assist the traveler in finding accommodation to suit their needs, it also encourages the hostel owners to keep standards high as their ratings influence the amount of business generated from the site.
There are plenty of budget hotel chains such as Travelodge, Ibis and Jury's Inns and Hotel 81 chains, however many travelers still prefer to stay in hostels due to factors such as atmosphere, fun and the social experience of meeting other backpackers.
There are all kinds of hostels these days, city hostels are inclined to focus on the social characteristics of city life, and are a great source of information on city life. They are certain to be a lot noisier than a hostel in the country as they remain open 24 hours a day. A city hostel is perfect if you are travelling alone and looking for some company.
Country hostels are a totally different thing; mostly they are frequented by people who are there to do some serious walking or hiking. This means people are getting up early and sleeping early too, and enjoy the peace and quiet at nighttime.
Some hostels still maintain an age limit and give priority to younger travelers, in particular official youth hostels in Europe, but mostly these days' hostels welcome guests of any age and some will even provide accommodation for families with young children.
The main difference in most hostels is the type of accommodation on offer. There are many that still offer accommodation in dormitories, or shared rooms. Dorms can be any size and for males or females only or mixed. There are normally private rooms also available and many hostels now provide private rooms with en-suite facilities.
The atmosphere in a hostel is completely different to your typical hotel. Whereas hotels only tend to provide their customers a comfortable place to spend the night, hostels have a social atmosphere which is often gained from sharing sleeping arrangements, dining areas and populating the on-site bar.
Hostellers are generally more interested in meeting other people than your average tourist, so you can quite easily find yourself with a new group of friends to explore the city together with. For many people who travel alone the majority of the time this can be one of the most enjoyable parts of traveling.
If you are searching for a hostel in Europe or a budget hotel then look online where you will find an extensive coverage of hotels, budget youth hostels, and bed and breakfasts. A youth hostel review will soon let you see that they have a lot more to offer than your average hotel.
Pelion Hotel: Promising A Delightful Vacation
Pelion, in central Greece, is one of the most fascinating places to visit among the Greek Islands. The combination of vast mountains and the magnificent expanse of the surrounding seas lure millions of tourists to this amazing region. Pelion is actually a peninsular region lying between the Pagasetic Gulf on one side and the Aegean Sea on the other. The gorgeous beaches, the beautiful lush valleys, the picturesque villages, the hidden waterfalls amidst the pine trees and the exotic wild life thriving here create a serene and tranquil atmosphere for visitors. Amidst such aura of natural beauty, you will definitely come across many a charming and luxurious Pelion hotel. Moreover a Pelion hotel here remains open all seasons, welcoming tourists and travelers to this land.
Pelion is said to have about 70 villages. Some are positioned on the mountain slopes whereas some are nestled along the coastline. There, you will not face much difficulty to find a good Pelion hotel. The locals are also very friendly and though they do not understand English well, they can certainly help you out or lead you to a nice Pelion hotel. The outdoor views that you can expect to find from your Pelion hotel differs according to the location of this Pelion hotel and the scenic surroundings.
A Pelion hotel always offers some kind of interesting activities to its guests so that they do not succumb to feeling bored in this quaint and tranquil region. If you are staying at a Pelion hotel amidst the mountainous areas, then you can expect to find rock climbing, hiking, trekking, camping, horse riding, mountain biking and cycling opportunities, being made available to you. On the other hand, if you are at a beach Pelion hotel, then you will get the fabulous chance to participate in various water sports such as jet skiing, water skiing, scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing and kayaking. There are plenty of underwater sea caves in the surrounding sea and thus it is perfect for deep sea fishing as well. You can also avail the excursion boat trips that take you around the natural coves and caves of the region.
Pelion is a wonderful place and it gives tourists the chance to find something new. It has a lot of ancient history attached to it. There are many historical monuments and ancient sites among the various villages of the region. A Pelion hotel arranges daily excursion trips for its guests, so that they get to know how this region has evolved over the years. Luxury buses are arranged for group tours and you might also get private cars for private tours as well. A Pelion hotel also hands out lovely tourist brochures to their guests to let them know where they are headed and what they can expect to see at the place. Such group tours are usually conducted by a multilingual tour guide who explains the history of the ancient place or monument to the newcomers of the region.
Pelion is also known to have a lot of old mansions that are usually located amidst the off-beaten tracks right in the centre of some striking natural surroundings. Some are located on the edge of a cliff, some are found clinging on to the imposing mountains and some are tucked away within the luscious vegetation close to the beaches. These mansions have been renovated, refurnished and turned into a fabulous Pelion hotel to provide accommodation for the increasing number of tourists and visitors. The owners have also worked very hard to provide modern facilities and technologies to satisfy tourists accustomed to international standard amenities. Usually these mansions entertain 2 to 3 groups of families at a time so that all guests are well looked after.
The interiors of such a Pelion hotel are indeed breathtaking as you come across exquisite interior decorations. Large chandeliers, grand staircase, exclusive hand woven carpets, beautiful wall paintings and carved ornate ceilings are quite common. There are huge dining and living areas and the furniture varies from room to room. In some, you might find leather furniture and in another polished wooden furniture. The spaciousness of each room that leads to another is truly mind boggling. The attractive flower gardens around these mansions complete with swimming pools, children's corner, seating areas and tea tables create an atmosphere of complete relaxation and happiness. Tourists do love this kind of attention given to their comfort and they tend to revisit their favourite Pelion hotel in the region to cherish the experience once again.
Pelion is said to have about 70 villages. Some are positioned on the mountain slopes whereas some are nestled along the coastline. There, you will not face much difficulty to find a good Pelion hotel. The locals are also very friendly and though they do not understand English well, they can certainly help you out or lead you to a nice Pelion hotel. The outdoor views that you can expect to find from your Pelion hotel differs according to the location of this Pelion hotel and the scenic surroundings.
A Pelion hotel always offers some kind of interesting activities to its guests so that they do not succumb to feeling bored in this quaint and tranquil region. If you are staying at a Pelion hotel amidst the mountainous areas, then you can expect to find rock climbing, hiking, trekking, camping, horse riding, mountain biking and cycling opportunities, being made available to you. On the other hand, if you are at a beach Pelion hotel, then you will get the fabulous chance to participate in various water sports such as jet skiing, water skiing, scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing and kayaking. There are plenty of underwater sea caves in the surrounding sea and thus it is perfect for deep sea fishing as well. You can also avail the excursion boat trips that take you around the natural coves and caves of the region.
Pelion is a wonderful place and it gives tourists the chance to find something new. It has a lot of ancient history attached to it. There are many historical monuments and ancient sites among the various villages of the region. A Pelion hotel arranges daily excursion trips for its guests, so that they get to know how this region has evolved over the years. Luxury buses are arranged for group tours and you might also get private cars for private tours as well. A Pelion hotel also hands out lovely tourist brochures to their guests to let them know where they are headed and what they can expect to see at the place. Such group tours are usually conducted by a multilingual tour guide who explains the history of the ancient place or monument to the newcomers of the region.
Pelion is also known to have a lot of old mansions that are usually located amidst the off-beaten tracks right in the centre of some striking natural surroundings. Some are located on the edge of a cliff, some are found clinging on to the imposing mountains and some are tucked away within the luscious vegetation close to the beaches. These mansions have been renovated, refurnished and turned into a fabulous Pelion hotel to provide accommodation for the increasing number of tourists and visitors. The owners have also worked very hard to provide modern facilities and technologies to satisfy tourists accustomed to international standard amenities. Usually these mansions entertain 2 to 3 groups of families at a time so that all guests are well looked after.
The interiors of such a Pelion hotel are indeed breathtaking as you come across exquisite interior decorations. Large chandeliers, grand staircase, exclusive hand woven carpets, beautiful wall paintings and carved ornate ceilings are quite common. There are huge dining and living areas and the furniture varies from room to room. In some, you might find leather furniture and in another polished wooden furniture. The spaciousness of each room that leads to another is truly mind boggling. The attractive flower gardens around these mansions complete with swimming pools, children's corner, seating areas and tea tables create an atmosphere of complete relaxation and happiness. Tourists do love this kind of attention given to their comfort and they tend to revisit their favourite Pelion hotel in the region to cherish the experience once again.
Pelion Hotel: They Provide An Enchanting Experience
Pelion, in central Greece, has been for quite some time attracting visitors and tourists with its exceptionally beautiful landscapes. It has become very reputed as one of the purest Greek destinations to explore. Moreover, a Pelion hotel, which is likely to remain open all 365 days of the year, has made it easier for visitors to find accommodation even in low season.
Pelion provides its visitors the absolutely perfect combination of picturesque quaint villages, gigantic mountains and a lovely view of the encompassing Pagasetic Gulf on one side and the Aegean Sea on the other. Tourists who come here can have moments of relaxation, fun, tranquility and adventure in this amazing place. Moreover, a Pelion hotel also sees that its guests have a memorable time as long as they are staying there. A good Pelion hotel is not very hard to locate. Wherever the natural scene around you is gorgeously breathtaking, you can expect to find your Pelion hotel right in the middle of it. All the touristy mountainous villages can provide you with an attractive Pelion hotel of your choice.
Their location is of great importance since a Pelion hotel in the region wishes to give its inmates an opportunity to interact with nature. So it should not come as a surprise if you find your Pelion hotel amidst tall pine trees or beautiful flower gardens or overlooking lush green valleys. Each room of a Pelion hotel varies from the other as far as size, interior decoration and views. It also certainly enhances the prospect that a guest may want to come back again to the same hotel to stay at another room and get a different view this time. Also this adds a certain kind of exclusive aura around that Pelion hotel. Such attention to detail is always maintained at a Pelion hotel of this region.
However in case of the coastal areas, especially the beaches, a Pelion hotel has to provide its guests with extraordinary views of the vast sea and the beach also as far as one can see. When demands are such, then a Pelion hotel also knows its way to please its guests. Giant windows and large balconies are provided so that guests can spend their time gazing at the waves crushing on the shore. A good sunrise and sunset views are not to be missed as they are simply one of a kind. You can have your breakfast and evening tea right on the balcony itself or by the window. For such a thing to happen, comfortable sitting areas are cleverly arranged near the windows or right on the balcony itself so that guests never miss an awe-inspiring view.
Each and every Pelion hotel prides itself for providing excellent outdoor activities. This may range from trekking and mountain biking to horse riding and water sports. Pelion can give adventure to those seeking for adventure. Safety gear and professional trainers are provided with all such high risk activities by any Pelion hotel in the region. Moreover, Pelion is also home to beautiful churches, museums, monuments, ancient sites and mansions. Each and every Pelion hotel has a travel brochure that one can see at arrival. You can always ask your Pelion hotel staff to decide the best places for you to visit. If need arises, then they can provide you with a tour guide as well. Frequently a Pelion hotel in the region does have their own transportation services and they can provide you with cars of your choice and need so that you can have a delightful time with your family and friends.
Pelion provides its visitors the absolutely perfect combination of picturesque quaint villages, gigantic mountains and a lovely view of the encompassing Pagasetic Gulf on one side and the Aegean Sea on the other. Tourists who come here can have moments of relaxation, fun, tranquility and adventure in this amazing place. Moreover, a Pelion hotel also sees that its guests have a memorable time as long as they are staying there. A good Pelion hotel is not very hard to locate. Wherever the natural scene around you is gorgeously breathtaking, you can expect to find your Pelion hotel right in the middle of it. All the touristy mountainous villages can provide you with an attractive Pelion hotel of your choice.
Their location is of great importance since a Pelion hotel in the region wishes to give its inmates an opportunity to interact with nature. So it should not come as a surprise if you find your Pelion hotel amidst tall pine trees or beautiful flower gardens or overlooking lush green valleys. Each room of a Pelion hotel varies from the other as far as size, interior decoration and views. It also certainly enhances the prospect that a guest may want to come back again to the same hotel to stay at another room and get a different view this time. Also this adds a certain kind of exclusive aura around that Pelion hotel. Such attention to detail is always maintained at a Pelion hotel of this region.
However in case of the coastal areas, especially the beaches, a Pelion hotel has to provide its guests with extraordinary views of the vast sea and the beach also as far as one can see. When demands are such, then a Pelion hotel also knows its way to please its guests. Giant windows and large balconies are provided so that guests can spend their time gazing at the waves crushing on the shore. A good sunrise and sunset views are not to be missed as they are simply one of a kind. You can have your breakfast and evening tea right on the balcony itself or by the window. For such a thing to happen, comfortable sitting areas are cleverly arranged near the windows or right on the balcony itself so that guests never miss an awe-inspiring view.
Each and every Pelion hotel prides itself for providing excellent outdoor activities. This may range from trekking and mountain biking to horse riding and water sports. Pelion can give adventure to those seeking for adventure. Safety gear and professional trainers are provided with all such high risk activities by any Pelion hotel in the region. Moreover, Pelion is also home to beautiful churches, museums, monuments, ancient sites and mansions. Each and every Pelion hotel has a travel brochure that one can see at arrival. You can always ask your Pelion hotel staff to decide the best places for you to visit. If need arises, then they can provide you with a tour guide as well. Frequently a Pelion hotel in the region does have their own transportation services and they can provide you with cars of your choice and need so that you can have a delightful time with your family and friends.
Award Winning European Hotels - Malta
Which town and hotel to stay when you haven't visited somewhere before can be a difficult decision at times.
For the island of Malta that choice is made easier as some of her regularly win independently judged accommodation awards - and it's helping boost the island's reputation as a holiday centre of excellence to those who haven't been before and are considering it.
And for tourists who already take holidays in Malta it's boosting the return rate of visitors - important to any destination that has tourism form a large part of its economy.
Malta has been a popular tourist destination for years - especially among the British - but her reputation has been transformed recently. In the past the island was seen often as a Mediterranean holiday for the retired.
Low cost flights however now means that the island is affordable for a long weekend or mid-week break for those tourists who want just a few days away because of their jobs - bringing down the average age of those taking Malta holidays in the last couple of years, and the hotels are to standards high enough to see many of the tourists visiting again and again - a good boost for the island's economy.
And it's not just traditional three and four star Malta hotels that are enticing people - the island is becoming well known for spa breaks and some of the hotels are regularly featured and praised in European and UK magazine and newspaper articles as being among the best in the Mediterranean.
Which all means the island is more than capable of competing with areas that traditionally people head for on a three day break - the Costa del Sol and Marbella for example, as well as other Mediterranean islands like Cyprus for those who take 7 day trips.
Holidaymakers from the UK have been drawn to Malta in the past because it enjoys the weather of the Mediterranean, but also because it's comfortingly British in many ways, despite independence having been gained in the sixties.
Over the years the island has established her own identity, but some remnants of the former rulers remain - driving on the left for example, and English is universally spoken. Put that together with the low crime rate and it has an edge for UK tourists that other holiday destinations cannot offer.
It remains attractive to the British - helped in recent years with cheap Malta flights - but the vacations are increasingly appealing to other nationalities too - notably the Italians and increasingly Scandanavians, and the holiday market is no longer geared exclusively to the UK travel market.
The hotels that have won awards recently include the Corinthia Palace - well known for its spa facilities - when they won a World Travel Award while another of the hotels in Malta won two awards from Expedia - Le Meridien in St Julian's. Both of these Malta hotels could benefit from extra bookings in 2010 from holidaymakers looking for good accommodation.
As the island diversifies it's tourist base from almost exclusively British just a few years ago to being more cosmopolitan now, so the holidays and hotel industry has raised its standards to win and ultimately retain visitors to the extent that they are able to win awards in competition with the rest of Europe.
Which all bodes well for the future of Malta and her economy which derives a lot of income from the tourist trade and from business people.
For the island of Malta that choice is made easier as some of her regularly win independently judged accommodation awards - and it's helping boost the island's reputation as a holiday centre of excellence to those who haven't been before and are considering it.
And for tourists who already take holidays in Malta it's boosting the return rate of visitors - important to any destination that has tourism form a large part of its economy.
Malta has been a popular tourist destination for years - especially among the British - but her reputation has been transformed recently. In the past the island was seen often as a Mediterranean holiday for the retired.
Low cost flights however now means that the island is affordable for a long weekend or mid-week break for those tourists who want just a few days away because of their jobs - bringing down the average age of those taking Malta holidays in the last couple of years, and the hotels are to standards high enough to see many of the tourists visiting again and again - a good boost for the island's economy.
And it's not just traditional three and four star Malta hotels that are enticing people - the island is becoming well known for spa breaks and some of the hotels are regularly featured and praised in European and UK magazine and newspaper articles as being among the best in the Mediterranean.
Which all means the island is more than capable of competing with areas that traditionally people head for on a three day break - the Costa del Sol and Marbella for example, as well as other Mediterranean islands like Cyprus for those who take 7 day trips.
Holidaymakers from the UK have been drawn to Malta in the past because it enjoys the weather of the Mediterranean, but also because it's comfortingly British in many ways, despite independence having been gained in the sixties.
Over the years the island has established her own identity, but some remnants of the former rulers remain - driving on the left for example, and English is universally spoken. Put that together with the low crime rate and it has an edge for UK tourists that other holiday destinations cannot offer.
It remains attractive to the British - helped in recent years with cheap Malta flights - but the vacations are increasingly appealing to other nationalities too - notably the Italians and increasingly Scandanavians, and the holiday market is no longer geared exclusively to the UK travel market.
The hotels that have won awards recently include the Corinthia Palace - well known for its spa facilities - when they won a World Travel Award while another of the hotels in Malta won two awards from Expedia - Le Meridien in St Julian's. Both of these Malta hotels could benefit from extra bookings in 2010 from holidaymakers looking for good accommodation.
As the island diversifies it's tourist base from almost exclusively British just a few years ago to being more cosmopolitan now, so the holidays and hotel industry has raised its standards to win and ultimately retain visitors to the extent that they are able to win awards in competition with the rest of Europe.
Which all bodes well for the future of Malta and her economy which derives a lot of income from the tourist trade and from business people.
Lake Cowichan Hotel - Cathy Youlden - Daryl Youlden - CQ enterprises Ltd
If you are considering staying in beautiful Lake Cowichan in British Columbia avoid Accomodations on Lake Cowichan Riverfront. Myself and a travel companion just returned from a 3 day stay and were basically mortified at our experience. Firstly, let me explain that we chose Accomodations on Lake Cowichan Riverfront primarily because they are pet friendly and we have one medium sized dog we travel with. Although the pictures on the website look fantastic the accomodations are anything but.
At first blush our room was extremely tiny and terribly filthy. There was a large iron burn on the rug and sheetrock dust everywhere, and oh, did I mention the overbearing smell of fresh latex paint! It was very apparent that the workers who had just renovated this unit were anything but qualified craftsmen.
Accomodations on Lake Cowichan Riverfront is located right in the heart of downtown Lake Cowichan and run by a baby toting hippie woman and her creepy boyfriend that is evidently stoned on something through out the entire waking hours.
When we first arrived to check in we were greeted by a poorly dressed hippy woman breast feeding a 3 year old child at the front desk, not that there is anything wrong with a woman breast feeding her child in public. But have some class! The grounds are poorly kept and there is no way you are going to relax on the 'wharf' as they call it. The river is very cold and the current is amazingly fast, swimming is definately a huge risk. The caretaker and her boyfriend can be located amidst wofting marijuana smoke clouds in a tent out back if you should require any assistance, but beware of their rotwiler / pitbull cross companion as he is very mean and running freely on the property. In fact he attacked our dog and others on more than one ocassion.
We also had the displeasure of meeting 'Cathy' the owner of the complex during our stay. All I can say is that the accomodations reflect her compulsive, extremely odd behavior. Avoid talking with her unless you want to spend an hour listening to someone tell you how great they are and how they know everything about anything.
I could go on and on but I am sure by now you get the point. There are many very nice bed and breakfasts within walking distance that we discovered through another family staying at the hotel that are pet friendly also. Accomodations on Lake Cowichan Riverfront doesn't even deserve a star rating and certainly isn't worth your time or money. If you are planning a stay in Lake Cowichan avoid Accomodations on Lake Cowichan Riverfront like the plauge.
At first blush our room was extremely tiny and terribly filthy. There was a large iron burn on the rug and sheetrock dust everywhere, and oh, did I mention the overbearing smell of fresh latex paint! It was very apparent that the workers who had just renovated this unit were anything but qualified craftsmen.
Accomodations on Lake Cowichan Riverfront is located right in the heart of downtown Lake Cowichan and run by a baby toting hippie woman and her creepy boyfriend that is evidently stoned on something through out the entire waking hours.
When we first arrived to check in we were greeted by a poorly dressed hippy woman breast feeding a 3 year old child at the front desk, not that there is anything wrong with a woman breast feeding her child in public. But have some class! The grounds are poorly kept and there is no way you are going to relax on the 'wharf' as they call it. The river is very cold and the current is amazingly fast, swimming is definately a huge risk. The caretaker and her boyfriend can be located amidst wofting marijuana smoke clouds in a tent out back if you should require any assistance, but beware of their rotwiler / pitbull cross companion as he is very mean and running freely on the property. In fact he attacked our dog and others on more than one ocassion.
We also had the displeasure of meeting 'Cathy' the owner of the complex during our stay. All I can say is that the accomodations reflect her compulsive, extremely odd behavior. Avoid talking with her unless you want to spend an hour listening to someone tell you how great they are and how they know everything about anything.
I could go on and on but I am sure by now you get the point. There are many very nice bed and breakfasts within walking distance that we discovered through another family staying at the hotel that are pet friendly also. Accomodations on Lake Cowichan Riverfront doesn't even deserve a star rating and certainly isn't worth your time or money. If you are planning a stay in Lake Cowichan avoid Accomodations on Lake Cowichan Riverfront like the plauge.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Lake Cowichan Hotel - Cathy Youlden
If you are considering staying in beautiful Lake Cowichan in British Columbia avoid Accomodations on Lake Cowichan Riverfront. Myself and a travel companion just returned from a 3 day stay and were basically mortified at our experience. Firstly, let me explain that we chose Accomodations on Lake Cowichan Riverfront primarily because they are pet friendly and we have one medium sized dog we travel with. Although the pictures on the website look fantastic the accomodations are anything but.
At first blush our room was extremely tiny and terribly filthy. There was a large iron burn on the rug and sheetrock dust everywhere, and oh, did I mention the overbearing smell of fresh latex paint! It was very apparent that the workers who had just renovated this unit were anything but qualified craftsmen.
Accomodations on Lake Cowichan Riverfront is located right in the heart of downtown Lake Cowichan and run by a baby toting hippie woman and her creepy boyfriend that is evidently stoned on something through out the entire waking hours.
When we first arrived to check in we were greeted by a poorly dressed hippy woman breast feeding a 3 year old child at the front desk, not that there is anything wrong with a woman breast feeding her child in public. But have some class! The grounds are poorly kept and there is no way you are going to relax on the 'wharf' as they call it. The river is very cold and the current is amazingly fast, swimming is definately a huge risk. The caretaker and her boyfriend can be located amidst wofting marijuana smoke clouds in a tent out back if you should require any assistance, but beware of their rotwiler / pitbull cross companion as he is very mean and running freely on the property. In fact he attacked our dog and others on more than one ocassion.
We also had the displeasure of meeting 'Cathy' the owner of the complex during our stay. All I can say is that the accomodations reflect her compulsive, extremely odd behavior. Avoid talking with her unless you want to spend an hour listening to someone tell you how great they are and how they know everything about anything.
I could go on and on but I am sure by now you get the point. There are many very nice bed and breakfasts within walking distance that we discovered through another family staying at the hotel that are pet friendly also. Accomodations on Lake Cowichan Riverfront doesn't even deserve a star rating and certainly isn't worth your time or money. If you are planning a stay in Lake Cowichan avoid Accomodations on Lake Cowichan Riverfront like the plauge.
At first blush our room was extremely tiny and terribly filthy. There was a large iron burn on the rug and sheetrock dust everywhere, and oh, did I mention the overbearing smell of fresh latex paint! It was very apparent that the workers who had just renovated this unit were anything but qualified craftsmen.
Accomodations on Lake Cowichan Riverfront is located right in the heart of downtown Lake Cowichan and run by a baby toting hippie woman and her creepy boyfriend that is evidently stoned on something through out the entire waking hours.
When we first arrived to check in we were greeted by a poorly dressed hippy woman breast feeding a 3 year old child at the front desk, not that there is anything wrong with a woman breast feeding her child in public. But have some class! The grounds are poorly kept and there is no way you are going to relax on the 'wharf' as they call it. The river is very cold and the current is amazingly fast, swimming is definately a huge risk. The caretaker and her boyfriend can be located amidst wofting marijuana smoke clouds in a tent out back if you should require any assistance, but beware of their rotwiler / pitbull cross companion as he is very mean and running freely on the property. In fact he attacked our dog and others on more than one ocassion.
We also had the displeasure of meeting 'Cathy' the owner of the complex during our stay. All I can say is that the accomodations reflect her compulsive, extremely odd behavior. Avoid talking with her unless you want to spend an hour listening to someone tell you how great they are and how they know everything about anything.
I could go on and on but I am sure by now you get the point. There are many very nice bed and breakfasts within walking distance that we discovered through another family staying at the hotel that are pet friendly also. Accomodations on Lake Cowichan Riverfront doesn't even deserve a star rating and certainly isn't worth your time or money. If you are planning a stay in Lake Cowichan avoid Accomodations on Lake Cowichan Riverfront like the plauge.
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