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Monday, May 14. 2007
 One of my most memorable trips to Europe is my college trip in Florence, Italy. I always dream of going to this place because I want to see the famous historic sites, art galleries, and museums that contain the history of the world. In fact, I want to settle in Florence if I have money in the future. During this class trip, my classmates and I lived in the beautiful Londra Hotel in Florence. I really like this hotel because it's located in the heart of the city yet it costs less than any other hotels in the area.
We settled in Londra Hotel not only because of it's affordable rates but for it's strategic location. It's near the main transportation, the Central Train Station. It would only take a five- minute-walk to get there. Londra Hotel is also near the famous Fortezza da Basso. In addition, Londra Hotel is also close to the main attractions of the city -- art galleries and museums, restaurants with delicious gourmet food, and several historic sites. This hotel also makes sure that its customers are comfortable and well-taken care of.
Even though the rates in Londra Hotel is inexpensive it has the best service and chic place in Florence. Every room is equipped with state of the art facilities like satellite television, air-condition, telephone, minibar, hairdryer and a sutting area. Every room has a king-sized bed or two single beds. If you're a non-smoker, there's a specific room for you. This Hotel also has a fitness center to keep you healthy, a sauna to relax your tired bodies, and festive restaurants. Londra Hotel combines comfort, fun, and pleasure into one. If ever I come back in Florence, I'll stay in Londra Hotel.
Monday, April 2. 2007
 There's a lot of well-known hotels in the world today. Among them is the unofficially considered 7-star hotel, Burj al-Arab, in United Arab of Emirates. Since most of the tourists want to see how beautiful this place, a friend of mine named Floyd also went to Dubai. He went together with other colleagues. They spent four days in the elegant hotel. He told me that the place is really awesome. Anyone who would see it will be amazed with its location, sceneries, decorations, and service. He mentioned that they even went up to the hotel's helipad where tennis superstars Andre Agassi and Roger Federer played before the Dubai Open.
According to him, his Burj al-Arab visit is very memorable and enjoying. Although he had to spend a large amount of money, he said it was all worth it. He added that he is more than willing to go back there when he has the time. He even told me that I should come with him so that I can experience what he had felt. After our conversation, I told myself that I will save money starting today so that soon, I can also go there and see that amazing structure. I would also love to play tennis at the helipad. I hope by that time I have already conquered my fear of heights.
Saturday, March 10. 2007
For those who travel frequently to the same destination it is wise to purchase a larger sum of money dependent on the current currency exchange rates which fluctuate very often. It is a good investment to purchase more money when the rate is favorable. When you're planning to travel to another country, you need to know how far your dollars will go when you get to your destination. You can check the internet for sites that have the current currency exchange rates and you can calculate how much your local money would be converted.
You might just get confused if you try to exchange money at a financial institution in the country you are visiting because some don't have English speaking associates who will explain the current currency exchange rates to you. You can visit your local bank for the most up to date rates and they can also exchange your money for you prior to your trip. Many banks offer this service over the phone and they will quote the current currency exchange rates in messages that are recorded daily. You can call an automated system and you can listen to the current currency exchange rates at their convenience.
Friday, March 9. 2007
 One of my unforgettable trips so far is our week family vacation in Alaska. That was my first and last trip to the region, which before I thought was all covered in ice. I was surprised to see that it's not that far different from the other state. But probably what made it so memorable was the beautiful Anchorage Grand Hotel we stayed in as a family. It is located in beautiful downtown Anchorage within walking distance to the city's main attractions like the Performing Arts Center, Convention Center, and the Museum of History and Art. The Anchorage Grand Hotel was originally built in 1950 and underwent a complete interior renovation beginning in 2000. The hotel's luxurious modern amenities provide its guests unique experience together with the great location, friendly service, and a comfortable guest suite.
Hotel amenities include the morning newspaper, a same day laundry and dry cleaning service, access to Anchorage premier health club, continental breakfast, and a business center available for guest use. The Anchorage grand 31 luxury suites that all come with a 25 inch color television in the living room and a Alaska Hotel20 inch color television in the bedroom. There is also high speed internet access, security card key locking system, and a state of the art phone system with 2 lines and voice messaging service.
Thursday, March 8. 2007
A nice and memorable vacation begins with an organized packing, and a good, sturdy luggage makes that possible. Choose luggage with features that make handling easy, like luggage with wheels and retractable handles make maneuvering quickly through the airport much easier. Retractable handles are also less likely to break and take up less space by collapsing into your luggage. Removable straps also work well, just keep them handy by packing them in the outside pocket of your carry-on so you can quickly pull them out when you need them.
You should also secure a luggage with locks, but luggage locks should be compact and tidy because dangling locks can easily catch on other objects and break or cause other problems. Combinations locks are very much recommended. Luggage tags can save you from a lot of headache if ever your luggage is lost. Built-in tags are usually much more durable than the plain paper tags supplied at the airport ticket counters. Lastly, pay attention to the luggage size especially if you plan to use it as a carry-on. Ever-changing size and weight restrictions mean you should always call or check your airline's website for their carry-on requirements before traveling.
Monday, March 5. 2007
Last year when Pope John Paul II died, millions of people from all over the world visited his wake at the Vatican City. The micro-city was so jam packed that the line stretched even outside the vicinity of the Vatican and into the bigger Rome capital. The Vatican City is just so small that it doesn't have hotels or accommodations. But there's no need to sigh because there's a lot of hotels in Rome located just walking distance from the Holy See. People are very generous that they give cheap accommodations.
Hotel Alimandi Vaticano is one of the most elegant hotels in Rome, located in front of the entrance at the Vatican Museums and at walking distance from the enchanting Saint Peter’s Basilica. Hotel Alimandi is a Luxury 4 star Hotel decorated in liberty style, and it opened in July 2004 and offers all the most modern facilities. During our family stay in the Holy See six years ago, we received a warm welcome from the staff of Hotel Alimandi Vaticano. The clerks were very helpful with directions and calling a taxi. The rooms and bathrooms were very clean and they also have free internet service. Your pilgrimage to the seat of Christianity will be the most memorable of all.
Sunday, March 4. 2007
 Tel Aviv's beautiful beach strip has one of the greatest view of the Mediterranean waters. Tel Aviv-Yafo is the largest city and biggest commercial center in Israel. The busy metropolis inspires its visitors with a unique energetic atmosphere of excitement and fun. The city's seafront skyscrapers and exclusive hotels visible from a distance presents a lively combination of entertainment venues, shopping malls, exotic markets, nonstop active nightlife, gorgeous golden beaches and wonderful restaurants of all kinds.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) proclaimed " The White City", the unique urban and historical fabric of Tel Aviv-Jaffa, as a World Cultural Heritage site in July, 2003. The special architectural qualities of the buildings, streets, squares and avenues of Tel Aviv are recognized all over the world. The city gained its trademark with its balconies, building pillars, flat roofs, and "thermometer" windows. It was the first Hebrew city in modern times founded in 1909 and was built on the sand dunes north of the ancient port city of Jaffa. The buildings were designed by Jewish architects who had studied in Europe. They created a new architectural language, which is rich and diverse, characterized by its asymmetry, functionality and simplicity.
Monday, February 26. 2007
Between the years 1850-1995, a traveler's check and the local American Express or Thomas Cooke office were the only way to get some local cash while abroad. But the introduction of ATMs over the past decade nearly turned these old travel standbys into quaint museum pieces. But you're likely to be charged an ATM withdrawal fee if the bank is not your own, so if you are withdrawing money every day, you might be better off with traveler's checks. For those of you new to Europe, a traveler's check is a form of Monopoly money that the whole world has agreed to treat as if it were real: just a pre-paid slip of paper worth $20, $50, or $100.
Traveler's checks still have their value. Obscure areas especially smaller towns and islands may have no bank, but you can always change a check at a local business, usually at a pretty pathetic rate. Paying for a meal, purchase, or hotel room directly with a traveler's check is a good way to ensure you get the worst possible exchange rate. Use your checks to get local cash at a bank or the American Express office, but not as currency.
Sunday, February 25. 2007
Known as Constantinople in the past five centuries until 1930, Istanbul is the largest city and the center of culture and economy in Turkey. It is considered as one of the oldest existing cities of the world and its three-thousand-year old history made it the European Capital of Culture for 2010. Due to pollution of the sea traditional beach resorts had disappeared gradually although over the years old places opened again in the city like Bakirkoy, Sariyer, and Bosphorus. Outside of the city are the Marmara sea where a group of islands known as The Prince's Islands have pine and stone-pine wooden art nouveau-style summer mansions from the turn of the twentieth century, horse-drawn carriages (motor vehicles are not permitted), and fish restaurants.
We stayed in Zeynep Sultan Hotel in our trip to Turkey a couple of years ago. We got our money's worth for during our stay. The staff is very accommodating from getting a taxi, recommending a neighborhood to visit, up to making a restaurant reservation. Our room had a great terrace view of the Hagia Sophia and the Patriarch of Constantinople. If you want to try this magnificent hotel, I advise you to book directly from Zeynep web site because paying cash gives 10% discount and if you stay 3 days, transfer from airport is free.
Sunday, February 18. 2007
It was mainly because of the classic movie that I was intrigued by this city. Casablanca in Morocco is where the medieval touch of the middle east crosses over with the modernization of Europe. The city is modern in a Moroccan way, but as soon as you step out of the impressive centre of town, dark clouds cover the realities of people here with extreme poverty and prostitution. The old city pictures the Casablanca of Bergman and Bogart which is small, consisting mainly of smaller houses and the alleyways dominating in other old cities.
You will observe that Casablanca was loved by its French colonizers because the buildings are of a French version of Arabo-Andalucian architecture, white with soft lines, and often plenty of details. Areas to explore is south of Avenue des Forces Armées Royales and the Place des Nations Unies which has the largest structures.
One structure that Casablanca is known for is the Mosque of Hassan 2 who was then the king of Morocco. Hassan 2 first mentioned this mosque in 1980 that he would build it on the water, because the throne of God is on the water. It was inaugurated on August 30, 1993 and was designed by the French architect, Michel Pinseau, with the tallest minaret in the world at 200 metres. There is room for 20,000 worshippers inside the mosque and the courtyard gives space for another 80,000. 2,500 men worked on two shifts in order to complete the mosque of Hassan 2. The granite came from Tafraoute, marble from Agadir, while the glass was imported from Venice, Italy. The mosque was funded by donations totaling to an estimated cost of US$800,000,000.
Friday, February 16. 2007
 If you have a very healthy night life and love after the sunset parties then Ibiza will be your Ultimate Paradise Island. Also known as Eivissa, it is one of the Balearic Islands located in the Mediterranean Sea and is belonging to Spain. The Ibiza Town, the island's capital on the eastern shore, is the home of famous clubs Privilege (the largest club in the world), Es Paradís (noted for its water parties), Amnesia (known for foam parties), and DC10 which serve as soundgarden for worldwide electronic music movement. Most DJs play house and trance genres of electronic dance music during summers when the number of tourists is at its peak. You should also check out the famous Café del Mar to watch the sunset with the other tourists.
You have an array of hotels to choose from, most of which has world-class service at an affordable price. Last year my cousins and I stayed in Hotel Argos which is just five minutes away from Ibiza Town. The rooms are very spacious and have a fantastic view of the shore. The location of the hotel provides silence to its guests who want a break from all the club noises. There are cafes and restaurants nearby where you can eat some of the best dishes in the entire Mediterranean.
Monday, February 5. 2007
I've mentioned in my previous entries that I'm dreaming of visiting Africa someday to witness the Great migration of animals and enjoy life in Safari. Africa has a vast collection of wildlife from beastly and ferocious jungle animals to the beautiful aerial animals and marine mammals. Aside from that they also have a wide array of tourist spots ranging from high peaks to tropical islands.
After basking under the African heat, I'm also planning to spend my cold and blistery winter days in England. For me, the English are very lucky for they live in a country rich in culture and full of historical events. Ever since I watch Harry Potter movie and see news reports about the royal family, my fascination about seeing my self making a snow man out in the royal grounds grew steadily. The castles, the cathedrals even the haunted dungeons entice me to be in the wonderful place.
Thankfully, for just $235, I'll be able to experience the British life in a nice and cheap hotel called the Strand Palace. It is located in the busy and sophisticated London giving a superb place to work and have fun. The large and glamorous bedrooms are equipped with TV and telephone, and security alarm for my safety. I can have a sumptuous meal in its vivacious restaurants overlooking stunning and marvelous castles. If you're planning a trip to London, and want a comfortable place to stay you can check the web site asklondonhotels.com for more information. upon learning that there are excellent but affordable place to stay in London, I just can't wait to visit my long time friend who's never failed to as me to dropped by their place and visit his family, by the way my friend is a very ordinary person in England, the very simple Prince William.
Thursday, January 25. 2007
 Malaysia is the home of the tallest twin towers in the world, the Petronas towers. If you are sick and tired of the classical atmosphere that a European package tour offers, try Malaysia. Be enthralled by the magical fusion of various cultures, traditions, beliefs, and customs in Malaysia.
When looking for discount travel hotels, the Prince Hotel and Residence, is definitely an ideal choice. It is conveniently located as you have instant access to shopping centers, boutiques, restaurants, and bars. Its 448 rooms feature internet and broadband access, phones with many features, and a whole lot more. Indeed, you have a great holiday treat at the Prince.
In addition, the hotel has facilities for business and conference functions. As such, you can still do your stuffs while having pleasure at the same time. Not only that, you will also experience the warmth, grace, and hospitality of dedicated hotel staffs. Other facilities includes large pools, fitness and spa center, kids' clubs, and many others. It is truly a rejuvenating and relaxing experience. Come and see the proud Petronas towers and feel what it is like to be in Malaysia when you check in at the Prince, one of the finest hotels in the country.
Friday, December 1. 2006
 If you are planning to visit New York and want to feel like real New Yorker when you do, then The Marcel Hotel in New York, New York is the place to be.
It's a walk away from the most popular neighborhood in Manhattan, the Flatiron District. Go through the neighborhood and feel part of the community. It's a breeze away from the popular Empire State Building. Visit the top for a nostalgic feel of the movie Love Affair. Give your partner something to do by showing her the Fifth Avenue which is just a few blocks away from The Marcel. Make sure you budget her shopping money. The subway station is also near so you can move to different parts of New York for your business or leisure needs.
The rooms apply a modern design for the professional in you. Room service, dry cleaning, housekeeping are all available everyday. You will be greeted with a warm-looking lobby and equally warm staff. The lobby is wood-paneled and is beside the coffee shop. Gramercy 24 is the restaurant that The Marcel is proud of. It has an oyster bar, seafood, and American menus.
Make a reservation now and experience New York like never before.
Saturday, November 25. 2006
 Bangkok is truly "the" shopping paradise. I personally attest to that. Bangkok is known for its very cheap bargains and its wide-selection markets. It's really the bargain-hunter's dream. Bangkok is a very busy place, and one of its areas which caught my attention is Pratunam. This is where the local vendors really sell hard. Many of the stores here sell in bundles and retails, for very low prices.
Pratunam is just near the World Trade Center, and it's surrounded by countless bazaars. I stayed at the Pratunam Hotel, which is a newly-built hotel. If you're looking for discount hotels, well then, this is it. I intend to travel around beautiful Bangkok and not spend my days locked in the hotel. I went there to go around Thailand, to go on an extreme shopping trip, and to walk around the endless bazaar streets. I don't think that I need a luxurious hotel to stay in. If you're on an adventure holiday, and you know that you'll be spending your whole holiday trip outdoors, then don't bother booking into luxury hotels. Believe me, it's not worth your money if you can't really enjoy your hotel accommodations. There are other discount hotels around the Pratunam area. There's the Best Bangkok House, the Century Park Hotel, the First Hotel, and the First House Hotel in Bangkok. These hotels aren't that bad; they're basic, clean, cozy and simple. You'll get to keep your saved budget money and you'll get to spend it on your shopping instead!
Saturday, November 4. 2006
 In the heart of Tanzania, just a block away from the Indian Ocean lays a place of splendor. As most of the wonderful sites suffer in disdain, one vacation spot still lures a lot of people. Looking at the vast lands of Africa, one place that people would certainly notice is Zanzibar.
Travelers could choose from a wide variety of visiting sites, which includes churches, beaches, hotels, and forests. Zanzibar boasts an array of never before seen places capable of taking visitors out of the real world. At night, several entertainment spots are in line to cater the partying needs of travelers. Accordingly, Zanzibar is the earthly version of heaven and a place worth spending rest and relaxation.
Through various transportation media, Zanzibar is just easy to be reached. In fact, most airlines do offer discount tickets to accommodate the urges of travelers to step in the white sands of Zanzibar. Truly, this wonder is more than just a vacation resort, but an escape to all the stress and negative things around.
Friday, September 29. 2006
 There's nothing like a cheap B & B in the middle of a posh setting. Find one in Belgravia and you will have a taste of both worlds--a comfy place to settle in for the night, and in the morning you will have the finest snobby London has to offer.
Belgravia we've only read about from Evelyn Waugh's novels, but if you are expecting something of the old 1920s London glamour, I am happy to report that those are strictly of the bygone years. To be sure, Belgravia has recently enjoyed a real estate boom fuelled by private home developers harkening to the call of pre-war Belgravia of the palatial domed houses and the every noontime tea and macaroons.
The Belgravia--the B & B in question--is located just across the street of Victoria Coach station. Whether, however, the location is the real Belgravia we leave for the Belgravian cognoscenti. But the rates are affordable at 55 (UK) for a single and 62 (UK) for a double. Every guest can make tea or coffee in his room and are provided with appropriate facilities.
Friday, September 22. 2006
If you'd like to book a rather cheap but accommodating hotel which is in the hub of the great city that is Rome, look out for Hotel Bled. Situated near the Santa Croce church, this hotel can be the starting point for any trip around the city, from the facade of Santa Maria to the Farnese piazzas to St. Peter's Square. It is located in Via S. Croce in Gerusalemme, with room rates ranging from 103 euros for Single to 196 for Triple.
Like most hotels the rooms have private baths with minibars, TV-Sats, direct dial telephone and air-conditioning. There is also a private parking space and a conference room for businessmen. The best tip is to take a cab instead of the train when you arrive from the airport. This will cost you less than if you take a train and a cab altogether. Also, if you could, have the room on the top floor reserved early for you, since, according to delighted tourists, this will give you a splendid view of Rome on all sides.
Sunday, September 17. 2006
 With the Holiday season coming up, more and more people are looking for hotels that offer discounted prices. If they are lookin for a hotel in the East Coast, they can check out New York's Milford Plaza. This hotel is located in the heart of Manhattan where they can wine, dine, shop, etc.
The 28-story building has 1,300 guestrooms which include 12 studios and two-bedroom suites. Upon entering the plaza, you will be greeted with a marble lobby and a humongous chandelier.
Because it is strategically located near 14 theaters, it has been a hotspot for theater lovers, families, foreigners, and tour groups for years. Each of these luxurious rooms feature homey but fashionable mahogany furnishings. In addition, the room also has cable television, easy internet access, telephones that have voicemail.
When you want to have a food trip, you can also go to Celebrity Delicatessen or the Garvey's Irish Pub.
Truly, this hotel is luxury at its finest.
Saturday, July 22. 2006
It's very rare that a hotel chain will look so approvingly of brining your pet along with you as you check in. Many hotels simply won't allow pets inside their premises, no matter how well-behaved the animals may be.
That's why the Red Roof Inns Hotel chain gets high marks from me regarding their pet policy. Now I don't travel with a pet, but I understand those that do. These animal companions can become invaluable family members and brining them along on a trip is now becoming commonplace.
Red Roof Inns encourage pet travel, and their policy on pets is a great way to ensure that those who travel with pets aren't left out in the cold.
Saturday, July 8. 2006
The Circus Circus Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas is one of the most affordable in "Sin City," with rates starting at 30$ and are quite large. This was built more for the children with the adults second in mind. The place is noisy, loud and utterly chaotic, with a circus act every 20 minutes. Perfect for the family, but may be a bit too unsettling for the weary traveler just wanting a good night's rest.
There are more than 3,000 rooms available, and a check-in wait of 1.5 hours. If you can stand the wait and the noise, and don't mind a little fun with your chips, then the Circus Circus Hotel and Casino may just be perfect for you.
Thursday, May 25. 2006
When one says Europe, one immediately thinks of tourist attractions, historical vacations and expensive accommodations.
That isn't necessarily true. In numerous places across Europe one can easily find a more economical solution to the accommodation problem. Here's a rundown on what to expect from these budget hotels:
Budget doesn't necessarily mean low class. Most likely you'll get a private room, a personal toilet and/or bathroom for you to enjoy all by your lonesome.
Not all hotels are created equal. A small inn in Glasgow may be makedly different from similar lodgings in Copenhagen. The price range is usually from $30-$90 USD a night.
Don't expect much. This ain't the Ritz Carlton, buddy. Most likely there won't be a concierge, or elevator. Learn to like stairs, it'll help you here. A buffet breakfast is usually offered.
Don't be put off by a less-than-stellar rating. Most of these hotels will only rate 1-3 stars on a 5 star scale. Don't be fooled; More stars usually mean you spend more.
Learn these tips well, and the next time you trek across Europe you'll be ready for the road ahead.
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Bookmark http://www.discount-hotel-reservations-deals.com/
Hotel Room Comments
Fri, 13.10.2006 15:35
The grand and luxurious hotel reservation at the peninsula of Sinai are well-acclaimed for their contemporary hotel [...]
Fri, 13.10.2006 08:22
Part of my traveling escapades would be dining in various dining establishments in a particular area. For instance in [...]
Sun, 08.10.2006 16:08
When Ernesto "Che" Guevarra was twenty-three years old he decided to go on a trip with his friend, Alberto Granado to [...]
Sat, 07.10.2006 13:02
There are agents who take advantage of you and think you're some kind of a jetsetter.
Sat, 07.10.2006 12:54
I got privilege because of my government employee status. Yes, it's true you gotta be nice to your agent, she can save [...]
Thu, 28.09.2006 19:11
Actually, the hotels do not depend on their lobby WiFi connection. They have two separate WiFi networks , one for the [...]
Sun, 24.09.2006 16:56
We plan to go there this month. Good thing, I don't have to worry about our hotel.
Sun, 24.09.2006 16:56
I have seen the hotel and it's great. You will love your stay there.
Fri, 22.09.2006 13:30
Me and my wife always go to different resorts. It's one of relaxing and staying away from the noise of the city.
Fri, 22.09.2006 13:30
My dad always makes sure that our family spend time together. We usually do it in the dining table while eating [...]
Wed, 20.09.2006 15:38
I went there together with my husband last year and we we're very amazed. The place was so great and the Zorgvliet wines [...]
Wed, 20.09.2006 15:38
I haven't been to that hotel yet because I seldom visit Africa. But with the way you described it, I'm convinced.
Sat, 16.09.2006 14:49
If you're looking for a Mediterranean-inspired hotel, then this is the place to go.
Sat, 16.09.2006 14:49
I like the foods in that hotel. Definitely, there is no "stuffy" cooking there. It's very fresh.
Fri, 15.09.2006 15:15
While drinking a beer after our dinner, my daughter approached me and asked about Paris Hilton and her sister Nicky. I [...]