Get Some Retail Therapy In Wellington, New Zealand

New Zealand's capital has a fantastic reputation as one of the best tourist spots in the country. Wellington is a beautiful harbour-front city filled with cute cafes, art galleries, theatres and restaurants. It's known as the 'coolest little capital in the world' - and for good reason too. The culture and feeling of the city is truly unlike any other.

When you aren't visiting Te Papa Museum and discovering New Zealand's history for yourself through the variety of exhibits and art installations or meeting one of the five hundred animals that inhabit Wellington Zoo, why not unwind with some retail therapy? There are plenty of shopping centres, malls and streets filled with boutique and specialised stores where you can spend your time in Wellington, and being somewhere new is always a great excuse to get some shopping done.

Head to a few of these popular destinations during your stay and snag some deals to take back home with you.

The City Market

On Sundays in the Atrium of the Chaffers Dock Building on Herd Street, the City Market is the best place to buy foods and wines. Delicious cheeses, organic fruits and vegetables and indulgent, carefully crafted chocolates are all available from this inner-city farmer's market. It's a splendid place to spoil yourself.

The Waterfront

The Wellington Waterfront is a vibrant and exciting hub of activity. Bars and cafes look out over Cook Strait at Queens Wharf and there are a number of quality art galleries to visit as well as plenty of nifty little shops to have a look around. Spend an afternoon relaxing by the water, grab some lunch and see what's on offer.

Rag Mama Rag

A vintage clothing store for women that's made quite a name for itself: Rag Mama Rag has a wide range of items for sale sourced from all over the world. Free alterations on all stock means you won't have any trouble finding the perfect fit when you visit the store in the Left Bank Arcade on Cuba Street.

Te Papa Store

If it's your first time to the capital or you haven't been to Te Papa before, the museum is a must-visit. The exhibits that are hosted range from interesting to simply incredible and, best of all, the gift store is lets you take a little something back home with you. The Te Papa Store sells an eclectic range of Maori and European art, jewellery and other products representative of New Zealand's unique culture.

Experience everything that Wellington has to offer during your stay and make the most of your time in the city at a few of these great shopping destinations. The city's unique mix of culture, art and history make it one of the most inviting in all of New Zealand, and there's no better place to blow a bit of that vacation budget.

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Cancun Excursions and Travel

Cancun is one of those rare gems in the travel sphere you must fully experience for yourself.

Sure we all see postcards and travel brochures where the sand appears as white as talcum powder and the water is so blue that it almost doesn't seem possible. Cancun definitely breaks the proverbial 'mold' in many ways which will make your vacation an amazing one. The weather is absolutely amazing, the scenery breathtaking, while the people are humble & friendly.

Cancun sits proudly in the Yucatan Peninsula, in the beautiful and historic country of Mexico, in the state of Quintana Roo. It is rich in both culture and history.

Once a tiny Mayan Fishing village, Cancun has quickly become one of the most popular travel destinations anywhere. With a population over 700,000, Cancun offers something for every traveler, no matter what their tastes or interests maybe.

First off, yes, the water really is that blue and the sand that white. Beaches in Cancun are nestled in between the dark mysterious waters of the Nichupte Lagoon and the endless beauty of the crystal clear Caribbean Sea.

Water sports and activities you ask? There is certainly no shortage of watersports in Cancun, with everything from scuba diving in crystal clear waters at one of the most popular coral reefs in the world, to snorkeling to jet skiing. The constant breezy conditions make parasailing and windsurfing popular choices while keeping the temperature comfortable for vacationers.

The Hotel Zone boasts a continuous range of 4 & 5 star hotels and resorts that would make even some of the wealthiest proud, most of which back on to the white sandy beaches of the beautiful Caribbean Sea.

Are you interested in nightlife and late night dancing? Cancun has many nightclubs and 'open air' bars which dazzle with amazing light and sound shows while operating well into the early morning hours. These night clubs make Cancun a night owls dream spot, where they can dance until the wee hours of the morning.

Most of these dance clubs and nightclubs often have 'cover charges' which include admission and unlimited drinks. Many nightclubs offer 'ladies nights' where ladies get in for Free, but this is usually only on specific nights or before a specific time. The cover charges can be steep, but usually include all drinks and entrance to the club.

There are many times other options to pay only for entrance to the club and pay for your drinks. You must figure out if that makes sense depending on the number of beverages you plan to have though the night.

Cancun also caters to the traveling shoppers who visit. Shopping in Cancun goes from low end style shopping, like souvenirs from various merchants and old mexican style marketplaces to high end merchants and brands in glamorous, high tech, onyx laid shopping malls.

What about site seeing and history in Cancun and the surrounding areas? There are a few places right in the Hotel Zone where you can get a quick glimpse of historic Mayan ruins. A keen observer will see these when traveling around the Hotel Zone and possibly even your resort, depending on where you stay.

Popular site seeing tours and activities in Cancun are the Chichen Itza site which boasts the Mayan marvel structure El Castillo. El Castillo (The Castle) which is a Mayan pyramid built over a Mayan pyramid is an amazing structure that is the focal point of the grounds and seen on post cards and images around the world. You used to be able to climb the steps up to the top of the temple but it has since been closed.

Other notable and remarkable sites on the grounds are the Sacrificial Well where yes, young virgins were offered up to appease the Gods. It is an impressive, massive hole in the ground with great depth and I've heard it is said to be bottomless.

The ball court also is an amazing structure with unbelievable acoustics and an eerie, gruesome history. A gruesome game, Mayan teams competed by trying to put a hard rubber ball through hoops high up on the stone walls, only using their hips, elbows and knees without using their hands.

Legends state that the winning team captain's head was offered to the losing team captain and decapitated, which was a huge honor for him as a direct journey to the gods and heaven.

There are many more popular attractions in Cancun and surrounding areas.

All in all Cancun has something to offer everyone, no matter their interests and desires. We have touched on only some of the amazing things Cancun has to offer to its visitors.

How to Prepare for the Cayman Islands

Traveling could be a very stressful event. I mean who doesn't wait till last minute to pack then freak out on the way to the airport trying to think of all the things you forgot?! I will admit, I do that all the time! But I have been getting better at preparing for my trips. Planning is the number one key. I am getting better and better at it the more trips I go on. They do say you learn from your mistakes and I learn something new just about every trip. I always think, 'oh that would have been nice to know beforehand..' I would like to help you prepare for your next trip to Grand Cayman. Follow these helpful tips and be less stressed to travel!

1. Make a list! - Make your list a week before your trip so you can add or take off items you do not think you will need. You just have a lot of your mind before a trip that it is easy to forget something.

2. Do not forget your passport! - Grand Cayman is a different country and you will have to go through customs. You will not get very far without your passport.

3. The Grand Cayman time zone is Eastern Standard Time. - It will not throw off your schedule too much. An interesting fact about the island is they do not change their clocks for daylight savings time.

4. The Cayman Islands dollar is equal to $1.25 US dollars. - The Grand Cayman has a permanent fixed exchange rate for the US dollar. Everywhere on the island accepts US dollars, but if you receive change it will most likely be in Cayman Island money.

5. The capital of Grand Cayman is George Town. - This is where all the shopping happens! If you need souvenirs, jewelry, hats, pictures, or anything, this is where you can buy it. There are also restaurants and bars.

6. Cars drive on the opposite side of the road. - Our rented car was backwards from a US car. Driving on the opposite side of the road was something very hard to get used to.

7. Be prepared for a lot of roundabouts in the roads! - Instead of right and left turns to get places, the Grand Cayman had a lot of roundabouts in addition to the left and rights on opposite sides.

8. Budget yourself - Food, shopping, and attractions add up after awhile. Just be cautious.

9. There is no language barrier in Grand Cayman.

10. The water is safe to drink. - The island has two desalination plants to supply quality water. Water is sacred on the island so do not waste it.

11. Make sure you bring sunscreen! - Reapply throughout the day.

12. Do not forget your camera.

13. Plan your activities, attractions, and beach time before you arrive to the Grand Cayman.

Have a fun, enjoyable vacation on the beautiful Cayman Islands!

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Florida - The Top Travel Destination State in the United States

Florida is known for its fantastic weather and amusement parks. It has miles of publicly accessible coastline and nature reserves. There is so much to see, experience and savor that your stay may fall short. However you should not miss the popular attractions.

Book cheap tickets to Florida for your family vacation and get to visit the Disney World. Four theme parks and two water parks make up the premiere Walt Disney World. It's the largest theme park in the world and brings to you a variety of choices of attractions and activities. Explore new cultures and technology at Epcot, have fun with Mickey Mouse, experience Hollywood glamor at Disney's Hollywood Studios and endeavor to Animal kingdom playing with the wildest animals.

Board cheap flights to Florida and visit the Florida Keys. They have become famous vacation destinations. The activities here include fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, boating, kayaking and eco tours. Get up close and personal with tropical fish on a snorkel trip, or dive to explore a ship wreck and sunken vessels on the ocean floor or witness America's most spectacular only living coral reef.

Flights to Florida like Air Canada, British Airways may give you a chance to explore the wildlife by paying a visit to the Everglades. It is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States and Florida's last untouched natural reserves. It boasts rare and endangered species and has been designated as a World Heritage Site, Wetland of International Importance and International Biosphere Reserve. It is home to the famous 14 ft "Grandpa" alligator and about 2000 other gators.

There are 50 miles of publicly accessible coastline at Fort Myers and Sanibel with a beach to match any choice. There shell covered white sands are pure and powdery soft. Fort Myers Beach has got the fun. Here you can dine on fresh caught fish, sip a cocktail, dance whole night and watch the beautiful sunset. The beauty of the Sanibel coast appeals everyone. Look for cheap airfares and attend the Sand sculpting festival held in Fort Myers in November. Visit the shell factory to see the largest collection of rare and common seashells, sponges, coral and much more.

Check out the best fares and visit the Universal Orlando, hosting Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. Universal Studios Florida inspires to ride the movies. You will not only see your favorite characters of films and movies but also have a chance to experience it. Ride out movies as you meet Jaws, The Mummy, Twister, ET and more. Move along the Islands of Adventure, endeavor Jurassic Park, ride along Harry Potter, Spiderman and many more! In 2010, the park hosted an estimated 5.9 million guests, being the eighth-most visited park in the United States.

1-Day Grand Canyon Rafting Tours on the Colorado River

Arizona's Grand Canyon has long been one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. Every year, millions of travelers come to view its immense scenic wonders. And while they're at the canyon, many take part in amazing recreational opportunities like smooth-water river rafting.

One-day South Rim Grand Canyon float tours begin at Grand Canyon National Park Airport, located in Tusayan, Arizona. This tiny town is just a few minutes from the National Park's main gates. If your accommodations are inside the park (Maswick Lodge, the Thunderbird or El Tovar, for example), you'll have about a ten-minute drive to the airport.

There are two types of smooth-water float tours to choose from. One type (the most affordable) includes a motor coach ride to Page, Arizona. Page is where all smooth-water river rafting trips actually begin. You'll know you're getting close to the start of your exciting river adventure when your bus passes through the two-mile tunnel just before Glen Canyon Dam. Tour pontoon boats are docked at the base of the dam, which is more than 70 stories high.

You'll fly to Page if you take the other type of float tour. Once you land, a 4x4 Jeep will take you on a fascinating off-road drive to Antelope Canyon. This unique spot's world-renowned slot canyons are actually sandstone mazes carved by running water, and they reflect the sunlight beautifully. Some of these slots are so narrow you need to walk through them sideways. After you leave Antelope Canyon, your Jeep will drop you off at the base of Glen Canyon Dam so you can start your 15-mile river rafting adventure.

Whether you fly or take a motor coach from the South Rim to Page, it's important to realize that your trip will be full of sightseeing opportunities. You'll travel all the way to the eastern border of the park, passing by the Zuni Corridor, the Desert Watchtower, the Colorado Confluence (the point where the Colorado and Little Colorado Rivers meet), the Navajo Indian Reservation and the beautiful Painted Desert.

Grand Canyon float tours are strictly smooth-water experiences - there aren't any whitewater rapids on this part of the river. For whitewater rafting, you'll need to find a company that operates multi-day rafting tours that begin beyond Lee's Ferry (the point where smooth-water rafting tours end). One-day smooth-water tours will take you through some of the most scenic parts of the Colorado. You'll see Horseshoe Bend and have plenty of chances to take a dip, so wear your swimsuit under your regular clothes.

You'll need to prepare for your adventure on the river. The altitude at the South Rim is 6,000 feet, so you'll be comfortable there during the summer. But, the bottom of the canyon (where float tours take place) is almost 4,000 feet lower, so temperatures could be up to 25 degrees hotter. Plan accordingly, and bring a wide-brimmed hat, lip balm, sunscreen (SPF 50 or better), sunglasses and some extra water. Wear a long-sleeved shirt.

Single-day smooth-water rafting tours are available from March to November. They're extremely popular and sell out regularly, so I recommend you book your tour up to a week in advance - especially if you have a group of people. The cancellation policy is usually quite reasonable, with a 100% refund available if you cancel at least 24 hours before your tour begins.

These river adventures are the most popular day trip at the Grand Canyon. They give you an entirely different perspective which can only be experienced from the river as it wends its way through the canyon. The Colorado is gentle through this section, so seniors and children who are at least four years old can join in the fun. So get going - it's time for a rafting trip you'll remember the rest of your life.

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Festivals in Exmoor During the Holidays

The Exmoor region of South West England is one steeped in culture and tradition, with many local festivals and fetes to entertain visitors. Why not stop by at a nice little B&B in Exmoor this season and check a few of them out? Here are just a few of the many pleasures you could choose from!

St. Mary's Church Flower Festival (Lynton)

St. Mary's Church, which overlooks the sea, is one of the many beautiful historical shrines scattered throughout the country; its tower dates all the way back to the 1200s. But even if this study in architecture does not strike your fancy, you may enjoy seeing all the beautiful floral decorations that will be up from 15 to 21 July 2012! The theme this year is "Christian Names," and entry is free.

Dunster County Fair (Dunster)

This is a real dog and pony show --- not to mention the donkeys, falcons and ferrets! This country fair is a celebration of the country way of life, and there are numerous animal shows and competitions to keep visitors entertained, not to mention the trade stands, craft tent and more! It is held on 25 July 2012, at A31 of the Dunster Castle Lawns. Come on down if you want to get a real feel for life in the English countryside!

Steam Fayre and Vintage Rally (Minehead)

This is the 25th annual celebration of old fashioned, steam powered transport. This is the place to be if you are interested in the history of machines, or just if you want to see a strange and magnificent display. It is held 4 and 5 August at Norton Fitzwarren.

Dunster Castle Under Siege

On 12 August: You will be transported back to the English Civil War as they re-enact the famous battle of this thousand year old fortress. And while you are there, take some time to explore the castle grounds with its many subtropical gardens, including the National Collection of strawberry trees. The medieval village and Exmoor National Park are within a short distance, so catch the conflict and then spend your peacetime looking around!

Minehead Summer Festival and Air Show (Minehead)

You can begin your day at the street market, looking at some local art, tasting the food and enjoying some outdoor entertainment. Then look up for the air show, featuring the Red Devils Parachuting Team, the Breitling Wing Walkers and Royal Air Force displays! A flight simulator will also be available. This is a free event held on 15 August.

These are just some of the upcoming attractions. If you want something new and fun this summer, visit Exmoor and try these great festivals!

Activities To Enjoy On Your Honeymoon In Rarotonga

If beautiful beaches and fantastic weather isn't enough to convince you that a honeymoon in Rarotonga is the best you can enjoy, maybe the quality Cook Islands resorts and wealth of activities on the island will be enough to persuade you. As the most populous island in the nation and a highly rated travel destination, Rarotonga is home to a number of hotels and luxurious resorts. For the honeymooning couple, there's nothing quite like a relaxing, intimate island vacation to start your new life together.

When you aren't soaking up the sun on the beach, enjoying the island cuisine at a local restaurant or relaxing together at your resort's private spa, there are plenty of exciting activities to keep you entertained. Make some time in your honeymoon schedule for a few of these during your stay.

Diving

What island vacation would be complete without a dip deep into the surrounding waters? Book a scuba diving adventure for the two of you with Dive Rarotonga and explore the reef at your own pace. Qualified and professional instructors can teach you the basics and there are dives to suit every level of experience. You'll love the intimacy of a night dive together and the reef is the perfect place to see some of the marine life up close during the day.

Koteka Winery

Home to unique flavours like Red Banana and Mango Wines, Koteka winery is one of the more interesting that you will visit on your travels together. Located in Muri, Koteka might be small but it's well known for its intriguing tastes and friendly, knowledgeable owner. Find your way there in the afternoon and enjoy a bit of local knowledge while you sample the Koteka selection.

Visit Takitumu Conservation Area

Spend a day walking through the tropical rainforest reserve at the southeast of the island. The conservation area has been set up to protect Rarotonga's natural beauty and wildlife; Takitumu is a must-visit if you want to catch a glimpse of the native birds and there's nothing more breathtaking than Rarotonga's lush landscape.

Muri Lagoon

One of the best locations on the island, Muri Lagoon is a spot nearly every visitor finds themselves at some point. Swim in the clear waters or hire a kayak and paddle out to the more secluded Koromiri Island. The lagoon is great for snorkeling too, well known for its colorful tropical fish that swim in the thousands beneath the water's surface.

Make the most of your honeymoon together in Rarotonga. Book a stay in one of the local resorts and take advantage of some of the exciting activities that this beautiful island has to offer.