Worldwide Travel Directory

Welcome

admin — Wed, 16 May 2012 11:42:42 +0000

Welcome to worldwidetraveldirectory.co.uk WorldWide Travel Blog.

The Aegean coastline of Turkey is by far the most picturesque

Alan — Fri, 11 May 2012 19:50:43 +0000

If you’re interested in coming to Turkey to see some of its most beautiful landscapes then you should head to the Aegean Region. This is a part of Turkey with beautiful beaches, clear water, pinewoods and extensive olive groves.

Along the coast you will find holiday villages, fishing harbours and an extensive history that dates back five millennia. There is a great deal of mythology in Turkey and this part of the country has a significant amount of it. For those who enjoy archaeology, nature, photography or simply the sun, this is a great destination to head do.

The weather is really one of the absolute highlights of this part of the country. Even in the winter it is warm, and the summer months are hot. That said the climate does remain rather miles because of the nearby mountains and sea. If you come in the summer then you are going to be able to enjoy some fantastic beaches and water sports.

If you choose to come in autumn, the weather is still warm, but it will be more bearable to explore some of the countryside and the ancient ruins which can be found there. Unlike most places in this hemisphere, it is possible to visit in January and February and still enjoy the weather.

There are a huge number of museums and historical attractions in the Aegean Region and one of the most notable is the monument that is constructed by King Antiochus in order to celebrate his own glory. There is also a spectacular outdoor museum nearby which contains information about the history, culture and ruins of the area.

There are also numerous churches and mosques here, many of which are ancient and particularly beautiful. Exploring some of these can be a real highlight of any holiday to this part of Turkey.

Kiev’s Museum Chernobyl as well worth a visit

Alan — Thu, 10 May 2012 19:47:54 +0000

In the Ukraine is the city of Kiev, which has about 1 million people living in it. Kiev can be found in the north of the country and there are many attractions in the city that are worth seeing if you have come here for a holiday. One of the most interesting would be the Museum Chernobyl at Metro. Unfortunately, there are not English-speaking guides to take visitors around this museum, but there are audio guides which will provide all the information you might need.

There is also the Pechersk Lavra monastery which is well worth visiting while you are in this part of the country. This monastery was founded nearly 1000 years ago and it welcomes many tourists as well as pilgrims every year. One of the most interesting things about this monastery is that there are several mummified monks inside.

There are also many museums in Ukraine that tell of the remote life of the various villages in the country. They tell the story of folk age designs and ancient life which has a very unique style. All of the museum is a very interesting and the displays in them a truly unique, you will find that the museums provide a real breath of fresh air.

Shopping is also a popular activity in Kiev and there are some serious shopping centres in the city. Unfortunately, much of the city was destroyed during the Second World War, so there is not a great deal of historical architecture.

That said, post-war reconstruction in the country has been intense and is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the Ukrainian people. The whole city has basically been built from scratch in the last 50 years and has become a fascinating and remarkable destination for tourism.

5 Great Forests for a Holiday

admin — Thu, 03 May 2012 12:32:28 +0000

Newly-released film The Hunger Games continues the Hollywood tradition of setting action sequences in beautiful, leafy forests.

The movie’s popularity has provided a boost to tourism in the US state of North Carolina – the home of the forest in which a gladiator-style televised contest takes place in the film’s most dramatic scenes.

Holidaymakers can now go on a Hunger Games-themed tour of North Carolina – the reason why the state is the number one location in this list of 5 great forests to take a holiday in.

1. Du Pont State Recreational Forest, North Carolina, USA

Hunger Games’ tours take in a place called Big Ivy in Pisgah National Forest’s Coleman Boundary. This is where pre-Games scenes of Gale and Katniss hunting deer and birds with bows and arrows were filmed.

However, the real climax of the tour takes place in DuPont State Recreational Forest where you can see the waterfalls, hidden lakes, fields and fishing streams which provided such a dramatic backdrop in the film. If you’ve watched Hunger Games you’ll know to watch out for any bee-hives hanging from forest trees and realise that the birds in the treetops will happily mimic any tunes you care to whistle!

Find out more details at Visit North Carolina

2. Transylvanian Forests of Romania

If you go on a holiday to the Carpathian Mountains in Transylvania you are sure to get the royal seal of approval.

In October 2011, Prince Charles gave his support to a campaign to save the Transylvanian forests from the clutches of developers and loggers.

Commenting on the campaign, our future king joked: “The genealogy shows I am descended from Vlad the Impaler [the inspiration for Dracula] so you could say that I have a bit of a stake in the area.”

Charles’ poor humour hides a serious point; the forests are among some of the last untouched wilderness areas of Europe. In the areas visited by happy tourists, zip-wiring, walks and rope adventures are popular activities. You can also visit a bear sanctuary and Dracula’s castle in a forest inhabited by brown bears, wolves and lynx.

3. Germany’s Black Forest

Black Forest - Photo by gato-gato-gato

This is the scary forest where Hansel and Gretel met a witch with a taste for human flesh but don’t let that put you off! Measuring 120 miles long and 37 miles wide, the Black Forest is located in south-western Germany and has the Rhine Valley as its southern and western border.

An area so large naturally has an amazing variety of scenery near its pine and conifer trees – rivers, waterfalls, mountains, coal mines, lakes and moorland ensure that the human eye can never get bored on walking tours there.

Logging has naturally reduced the size of the actual forest but, considering that a third of Amsterdam was built on Black Forest stumps, there is still an amazing amount of foliage to survey as you breathe in the pine air.

No article with information about the Black Forest can fail to mention Black Forest Gateau and this article is no exception – don’t forget to sample this delicious mixture of chocolate cake, cream, sour cherries and brandy in one of the forest’s 13 Michelin-starred restaurants!

4. Ardennes, France

Travel to Chêne Perché (it translates as ‘Oak Perched’) at Signy-Abbey in the Ardennes region of northern France and you can stay in tree-houses which are perched as high as 16 metres off the ground.

These unusual living quarters are sturdy enough to support up to eight people depending on the model (and the weight of the people). Expert guides can help you follow the trail of badger, wild boar, fox and wild cat.

Find out more at http://www.lecheneperche.com/.

5. Sherwood Forest

[The Major Oak in Sherwood Forest: said to be Robin Hood’s hiding place. Photo by woodsboard.]

English folklore and forests have always had a close connection. Dick Turpin for instance, is said to have had a hide-out in Epping Forest.

Sherwood Forest is even more famous than Epping Forest – its history shows that it used to be the playground of Kings and Dukes who loved to hunt deer in its cool shade. Legend has it that Robin Hood was also hunted among the trees and steams – Robin is the outlaw who has made Sherwood such a popular tourist attraction.

The Major Oak is the place to visit for fans of this wealth-redistributing hero; it’s an oak tree which is reputed to be Robin’ principle hide-out.

The tree could be up to a 1,000 years old – if it could talk it would sure to have some tales to tell!

James Christie writes for Thomson Local, a great business directory in which to find details about travel agents

Step back in history in Hanoi

admin — Thu, 03 May 2012 11:21:41 +0000

For anyone seeking an adventure holiday in a country of pure natural beauty, rich with culture and history then look no further than Vietnam. The country has all of this and much more to offer the adventurous traveller.

With the fantastic beaches of the South China Sea to the East, and bordering China, Laos and Cambodia, Vietnam is situated on the South East of the Indochina Peninsula. The scenery is truly magnificent from the Mekong and Red River Deltas to the thick rain forests with their mountain peaks to the beautifully green rice paddies.

In Ancient Hanoi much of the architecture is French Colonial, many of the buildings there having been built by French settlers in the early 20th century. There is the magnificent Presidential Palace, the Grand Opera House and the Sofitel Metropole hotel. All are marvellous sights to behold.

A visit to the Old Quarter of Hanoi is also a must. This shows a different side to the city with its narrow winding backstreets which are always a hive of activity. The Buddhist monument, the one-pillar Pagoda is an attraction not only for Buddhists but for travellers to visit also. Built in 1049 it is another sight not to be missed.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is located in the centre of the city. Inside the building is the body of Ho Chi Minh. The Vietnamese affectionately call him Uncle Ho and he is revered and worshipped to this day. His body is very well preserved and is on public display to visitors.

So from the awe-inspiring scenery of the countryside to the culture of the ancient city of Hanoi, Vietnam is a country to take your breath away. For anyone seeking something a little bit different this is a place to see.

Sights of London!

admin — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 12:21:50 +0000

London is jam packed with loads of fun things that can be done, regardless of budget constraints. If you are on vacation in the English capital, you won’t be bored for a single minute if you’re there for a fortnight or even just a day trip! Here we please everyone by having a look at what free things you can do in London as well as sharing some ideas for those who want to splash the cash:

Free Stuff (for the penniless traveller!)

Art galleries:

Most of the art galleries in London are completely free to enter. Probably the most famous of all the London museums, the Tate Modern offers a large selection of contemporary art – which for the most part of 2012 includes Damien Hirst’s famous “The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Mind of Someone Living” (better known as the Shark in formaldehyde). To get a real taste of the UK art scene get down to the TATE Britain this has a selection of the best art from the UK. If you need more gallery fun get down to the National Portrait Gallery or the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square.

Visit a museum:

Much like the city’s art galleries, most of London’s museums are also free to enter.

Whether you’re interested in science, history, royalty, art or military, there’s definitely a museum in London that will suit your tastes. Probably the most famous museum in London, the Natural History museum is renowned for its dinosaur exhibit is definitely worth a visit. Other museums that are worth a visit are the National Maritime Museum and the Museum of London, which tells of London’s history from as far back as the Roman times.

Taking a stroll along the South Bank:

A walk along the Thames’ southern bank is a great way to see almost every one of the major landmarks of London and it won’t cost you a thing!

Things to do in London that cost ££

A night out at the theatre:

London is famous for its West End shows and attracts stars from all over the globe. If you are in London and are lucky enough to have the spare disposable cash to get a couple of tickets to one of the many musicals, plays or stand-up comedy gigs that will be on then it’s an absolute must.

Get a taste of London:

Another thing that can be found in London is top quality restaurants. You can get just about any dish from all over the globe if you head to the right place, but what better than a trip to one of London’s famous pie ‘n’ mash shops.

Ride the London Eye:

Instead of walking the south bank, another way to see London’s major landmarks is from the air! A ride on a landmark in itself is a great way to see London from up high – tickets aren’t that bad either, especially if you’re booking for the whole family!

Article: www.ticket.com

Bargain Hunting in Leeds

admin — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:50:07 +0000

A wise student knows that their money is limited. Yet the urge to spend is always present so the key question is how to spend the money effectively. For students at Leeds Trinity University buying or finding a cheap bargain not only gives you the thrill and knowledge of knowing the money you’re effectively saving on the price, but also keeps the cost down, giving you more money for your everyday expenditure.

In order to be a spend thrift; it helps to know where to look. Mainstream shops and centres are available, but tend to stick to the RRP and rarely sell below a certain limit. By extending your reach to more independent stalls and markets, you can find much better deals. If it’s still not cheap enough, you can always negotiate with the seller or look around. These are freedoms that aren’t offered in the typical mainstream shop.

Additionally, the merchandise and items available are much more unique. Whilst you can find the regular clothes and branded items, finding something that is individual makes it all the more personal and rewarding.

The Main Shopping Area

The White Rose shopping centre is the main shopping district in Leeds. This is where the main brands are based and the regular chain shops are held. Whilst there are often sales and student discounts, there is little room for bargains or treasure finds here. Likewise, the Victorian Quarter has a lot of fashionable brand names. Depending on the store and seller in question, these may be at reduced cost but given the nature of fashion, the best items are still going to be expensive.

On a student budget, you may find yourself running out of money if you confine yourself to the traditional methods of spending. This area is good if you know what you want, but it doesn’t offer anything unique. There are charity shops, however, if you feel like rummaging through second hand goods, as you never know what you might find.

The Alternatives

If you prefer to save money, or want to venture somewhere more interesting and exciting, than Leeds has a number of locations. Not always in the city centre, it pays to walk off the beaten track somewhat to reach these independent hotspots.

Primarily, Leeds has a strong market scene. Both the Queens Arcade and Granary Wharf are host to independent retailers. The Queens Arcade may be cheaper than the Wharf, which now hosts a number of restaurants and cafés, becoming a slightly more expensive experience. However, the uniqueness of the shops here means that it’s always worth visiting regularly if you like to shop.

Furthermore, there are various markets that appear throughout the year. Sometimes they are closer to the city centre, but the likes of the Wharf once again provide an alternative out of town. Additionally, there is often a vintage fair held at Leeds Student Union annually. Usually held around September, this is similar to a charity shop, in that you don’t know what you’re going to find or for how much. This all adds to the excitement.

In summary, Leeds is a very diverse city; if you stray from the city centre and head towards one of the other hotspots for shopping you are sure to have a very different and unique experience. The fact that you can save money or simply buy more doesn’t hurt either.

Nature lovers will have the time of their lives in Costa Rica

Alan — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 08:22:43 +0000

Costa Rica is a wonderful destination for nature lovers as it has a number of landmarks and landscapes that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. This country is a tropical paradise located in Central America and it could be the place where you will have the holiday of your dreams.

This country is a great location for the adventurous traveller but it is also a wonderful destination for those who are just wanting to find somewhere to relax. Around 25 percent of the country’s area is protected by the government so that no serious developments can take place.

This means that the area is protected from logging and much of its wonderful rainforest is perfectly preserved. The rainforest in Costa Rica is a truly remarkable site and it is something that all visitors to the country must go and see.

One of the most famous places for seeing rainforest at its best is the Corcovado National Park. This is a location that is known by nature lovers and ecologists from all over the world because it is an immensely bio diverse area. National Geographic magazine in fact calls it the most biologically intense place on the planet. When you see this destination in person you will be able to see why it gains all this acclaim, the amount of nature here is incredible.

There are numerous animals which you can see in this forest including jaguars, eagles, monkeys and sloths. If you come to this national park you are going to see some of the most interesting animals and plants in the world.

If you are looking to spend some time on the beach, you should definitely get a surfboard as Costa Rica has some of the best-known waves in the world. These have been popular with recreational and professional surfers for years.

for a holiday with a difference head to South Africa

Alan — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 08:20:26 +0000

When most people consider taking a holiday, they usually think of the same things that they do every year. Often this revolves around a swimming pool, beach and other relaxing activities such as sunbathing and eating out.

While this can be an enjoyable way to spend a holiday, people will sometimes return to their country and wonder whether they actually got an experience of the country they went to at all. Every year people will be heading to different destinations, but they largely experienced the same thing; a swimming pool and sun.

If you are looking to take a holiday that is a little bit different this year then you should consider heading to South Africa. Here you can take a safari which is a remarkable experience. If you are keen on making your safari even more memorable then it is possible to do it on a quad bike or on horseback. This is very different from the normal experience of a safari which takes place in a jeep.

As well as taking a safari in South Africa there is plenty of other beautiful countryside to see. The Drakensberg Mountains are a remarkable site with many hiking trails that are just begging to be explored. The scenery is absolutely stunning and seeing the peaks of these mountains rise up into the sky is a remarkable sight.

All-around South Africa you will also find something called Canopy Tours. These are a fantastic experience where you will be able to walk high up in the trees across wooded platforms and roped walkways. There will be expert guides who can take you through these forest walkways and they are a really great way to enjoy some of the spectacular nature that South Africa has to offer. Some of the best can be found in Tsitsikamma National Park.

Tips for great adventure holidays for the whole family

admin — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 14:57:57 +0000

Family holidays are changing; and more and more of us are no longer satisfied with lying on a crowded beach, paying through the nose for food and drink, and dealing with the inevitable cries of boredom from the kids. Family adventure holidays are now big business, and there has been more growth in this sector of the travel industry that any other in recent years, and there are many reasons given for this boom.

Holidays as a family are over far too quickly, and before you know it, that little boy you taught to swim in a hotel pool is off with his mates to party in Ibiza. This is one of the reasons given for more and more families to want to get more out these precious times spent together, and by taking adventure holidays together they have a lot of fun, experience new sights and sounds and create memories to last a lifetime.

If you are looking for an adventure holiday for your family, the first thing you will discover through an internet search is that the choice is more vast and varied than many realise. To make your search easier, the first things you should consider is how far you want to travel, the kind of activities you want to take part in and, of course, the budget.

One of the fastest growing countries in terms of adventure holidays is Morocco, and when you look at what is on offer there it is easy to understand why. A wonderful climate, friendly natives, and a flight of only four hours will take you to the land of souks, bazaars and kasbahs. The adventure holidays here are aimed at those families with older children, as trekking in Morocco through the Atlas Mountains is something you can’t do with little ones.

Other choices of activities here include touring the vast terrain of the Sahara Desert and sleeping in a tented oasis, taking a mule trail via Marrakech, Essaouira and the Atlas Mountains, camel treks that visit remote Berber villages and take in kasbahs and bazaars and visits to the imperial cities.

If you have a wanderlust and want to go further afield to take in the best of nature, then a safari holiday would be perfect. Getting up close and personal with some of the most amazing animals on the planet, such as giraffes, lions and elephants are the kind of thing that dreams are made of, and this kind of exotic holiday has become more affordable over the years and is no longer just for the rich and famous.

Wherever you decide to go for your family adventure holiday, be sensible and make sure that all the ages of your party are catered for, and there is plenty to do for those who aren’t quite as adventurous. By considering all these factors, you will find a holiday that suits everyone and a fabulous time will be had by all, and will create those special memories that you had hoped for, and many more besides.

Article for Explore.co.uk