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Cape Lodge - Australia's finest small luxury hotels
Follow the coast three hours south of Perth, Western Australia and you will find one of Australia's finest small luxury hotels. As you meander down the winding driveway of the intimate country estate you will discover why Cape Lodge has been voted in the Top 100 Hotels in the World.
Located on its own vineyard, Cape Lodge tips the scales of the luxury hotel experience. Voted in Conde Nast Traveller's Gold List 2007 "World's Best 100 Hotels" and ranked Number 4 in the World for Food. Its neighbours include the great wineries of Vasse Felix, Moss Wood, Pierro and Cullen. The extraordinary beauty and diversity of the area is striking, from its majestic karri forests and pristine beaches to the rural mosaic of viticulture and dairy farming.
The Cape Lodge offers tennis courts, free Wi-Fi and an outdoor pool as well as a beauty centre, a business centre and a concierge.
The Cape Lodge offers many facilities including a laundry service, a dry cleaning service, meeting rooms and a restaurant serving local dishes. Staff at the front desk are on hand to look after the needs of guests on arrival. The garden is a perfect place to rest and relax.
The rooms offer elegant décor and superb 5-star facilities. They are all air conditioned and include a safe, cable / satellite channels and a plasma / LCD TV. Slippers and bathrobes are also provided for extra comfort. Equipped to ensure a comfortable stay, rooms have a DVD player, tea and coffee making facilities and complimentary toiletries.
There are many vineyards close to Cape Lodge including Vasse Felix, Cullens, Laurance, Knee Deep, Clairault and Driftwood Estate to name a few, as well as the Breweries Bootleg and Duckstein Brewery. There are also many Art galleries in the region and some within 15 minutes drive away from Cape Lodge. The popular Yallingup Maze is also close by, as is the chocolate factory, the Natural Olive Oil Factory and many more factories.
Cape Lodge is located on Caves Road; only three kilometres from the Indian Ocean and surrounded by the great wineries of Margaret River. The climate is described as Mediterranean with long warm sunny days in Summer, beautiful bright crisp Spring weather and snug Winter days ideal for drinking red wine by the fire. Cape Lodge is just a 3.5 hour drive or a one hour flight from Perth, and is centrally located to the town sites of Margaret River, Dunsborough and Yallingup.
Source: Cape Lodge
USA Island Paradise Holiday
Big Island
If you’re looking for an island paradise holiday, USA has the beautiful islands of Hawaii. Every year Hawaii attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world. The scenic beauty of the beaches, exotic marine life, and rich culture is the perfect escape from the drudgery of everyday life. Hawaii has access to every possible water sport, gorgeous golf resorts and world class spas that are sure to make your USA holiday something you will never forget. The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is one of the USA hotels that offers the ultimate in 5 star luxuries to all its guests and access to fine dining and a range of activities. No matter what time of the year you plan to visit you can find amazing USA deals on holiday destinations. If you’re planning to come for certain events and festivals then it is recommended you book far in advance to get good rates on hotels in USA.
Kauai
Yet there is more to these islands than fire and brimstone. Maui, Oahu and Hawaii (also called ‘the Big Island’) boast some of the most stunning beaches, hotels and attractions in the world, while Hawaiian culture is renowned for its friendliness, bright colour and undeniable hospitality. Hawaii has long enjoyed a reputation as a tropical paradise. The islands enjoy a warm year-round climate that has made it a popular destination for holidaymakers throughout the year and given the wealth of different attractions on the island, it is not difficult to see why so many are enticed by its charms. Given that the islands owe their existence to tectonic activity, it is somewhat fitting that one of the most popular attractions for visitors enjoying a Hawaii holiday is the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, featuring the world’s most active volcano, Kilauea. Visitors can access the park in a number of ways, taking helicopter tours and flights from any of the islands, or if you are on Big Island, you can see the volcanoes, the Jagger Museum and the famous Kaimu Black Sand Beaches as part of a coach tour or even via a guided bicycle tour. Those seeking a view of indigenous local traditions should consider a trip to the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu.
Lanai
The centre is a celebration of local traditions and features seven villages, where locals re-enact ancient skills, dances and take part in elaborate ceremonies. In the evening, you can participate in an authentic Hawaiian Luau, the Alii Luau Feast, which features the obligatory lei greeting, traditional dancing and a succulent Hawaiian banquet.:3:Fans of modern history would also be enthralled by the touching exhibits on display at the four museums and many other artefacts and vessels on display at Pearl Harbour. The attraction in Oahu is not just a fitting monument to those who lost their life during the military strike by Japan on 7th December 1941, but also includes a great deal of background information about the circumstances surrounding American involvement in World War II. Adventure lovers have plenty to occupy themselves in Hawaii - Maui is a particularly popular centre for those who enjoy scuba diving, kayaking and snorkelling.
Maui
Others opt for the picturesque Waianae Coast in Oahu to spend time swimming with dolphins. If you don’t fancy getting wet to see what is under the ocean, Sea Life Park in Oahu allows you to get up close with many of the native off-shore creatures, as well as many from much further away. Hawaii also offers two spectacular ways to end a perfect day. The first is to scale the summit of Mauna Kea to experience lunch at the nearby Parker Ranch, before enjoying warm drinks and cookies, flanked by the famous twin Kek Telescopes to enjoy the marvels of the crystal-clear Hawaiian night sky. For something a little more romantic, a sunset cruise complete with evening meal is the perfect way to end the day. The volcanic fumes emanating from the nearby Kilauea creating some of the most spectacular sunsets in the world as your cruise ship visits the many beautiful sights around the islands. Being close to the equator, Hawaii does not enjoy distinct seasons. The weather year-round is invariably warm with temperatures of between 24 to 29 degrees C typical throughout the calendar. In terms of temperature, there is little difference between summer and winter seasons, but July to September tend to be the hotter times, with more days around the 30 degrees C mark, while February and March are the coolest months, with nighttime low temperatures of 18 degrees C.
Molokai
More of a factor in deciding when to go to Hawaii is the rainfall, and this is dependent both on the time of year you visit and also on which side of the islands you stay. Along the eastern (windward) coast, trade winds bring in moisture and cause rain to fall more commonly in this area, the western coasts (leeward) sides of the islands tend to be sheltered from the majority of rains by the mountains and as such enjoy less rain. As a result, most of Hawaii’s most popular tourist resorts tend to be focused on the western coastlines. In terms of crowds, December to April is the busiest period and July to August is also when the islands are more crowded. Travelling outside these periods is advisable if you can as you not only get the best of the islands weather and attractions, but hotel rooms are much cheaper too.
Photo: google
best travel
“Must-see” Destination for Travelers around the World.
To travel the Icefields Parkway is to experience one of Canada's national treasures and most rewarding destinations. Stretching 232km (144mi.) through the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site, this world-class journey offers access to a vast wilderness of pristine mountain lakes, ancient glaciers and broad sweeping valleys. This special travel route winds its way through two national parks, boasting a unique and irreplaceable landscape rich in history and natural beauty second to none.
For over 125 years, Banff National Park has provided visitors with a healthy combination of unspoiled wilderness, modern amenities and opportunities for active exploration. With such a breathtaking landscape, it’s no surprise that this UNESCO World Heritage Site has been nominated time and again as a “must-see” destination for travelers around the world.
Discover the protected wilderness surrounding Lake Louise, Banff and Jasper. There is only one place in the world that can genuinely offer spectacular natural mountain scenery, abundant wildlife, four-season recreation and world-class accommodation in a protected National Park setting.
One of the most gorgeous gems of the Rockies is Peyto Lake, a shimmering, large turqouise lake just north of Bow Summit. Massive peaks and the Wapta Icefield tower over the lake, shaped like either an angel, or a dog (use your imagination!). The most popular viewpoint of the lake is from Bow Summit: from a parking lot, a 10-minute paved trail leads uphill to a wooden viewing platform with an absolute stunning view of the lake and a forested valley to the north.
Once known as “The World’s Bread Basket,” Saskatchewan produces more than half of the wheat grown in Canada. But with its impressive network of parks, historical attractions and performing arts facilities, Saskatchewan is one of the fastest growing tourist destinations in Canada.
Take a relaxing drive along the winding country roads, and witness the diverse landscapes and the untouched natural attractions that make this province unique.
A popular tourist destination, the Qu'Appelle Valley captures the true spirit of Saskatchewan. Featuring more than 100,000 freshwater lakes, Qu’Appelle is home to incredible beaches, camping and outdoor recreation facilities, legendary sport fishing, and some of the most exciting wilderness canoeing on the continent.
The Columbia Icefield Glacier reveals the most unique attraction in the Canadian Rockies. Massive Brewster Ice Explorers, specially designed for glacial travel, take passengers on a remarkable excursion onto the surface of the Athabasca Glacier.
Discover ruins of the ancient city of Karakol, Belize
State of Belize in Central America is 22.9 thousand km ² of the Yucatan Peninsula. On the south-west of Belize stretches a beautiful country of Guatemala and to the west – not less beautiful Mexico. Its eastern side, this beautiful country goes to the Caribbean Sea.Initially, the territory on which the modern san ignacio belize, belonged to the possessions of the Mayan. However, after the land was discovered by Christopher Columbus (the beginning of the XVI century), Spanish authorities have organized it in a colony. In the early seventeenth century, the area is heavily interested in the UK. First of all it brought the forest of san ignacio belize.
The ruins of the ancient city of Karakol on the Vaca Plateau - one of the main attractions of the area and the largest Mayan city in the country. Opened in 1936, remains only in 1985 were the first intensive excavations revealed to the world one of the largest Mayan cities - so far excavated 32 large buildings and 12 somewhat smaller, grouped around five main areas that are open to the public. Scientists estimate that in the VI called. er. when the town reached its heyday, Caracol occupied 88 square meters. km, and was inhabited by approximately 150 000 inhabitants.
Pyramid Canal is still one of the tallest structures in Belize (with an altitude of 42 m). And more than 100 ceremonial burial VI-VIII cc. opened the world beautiful examples of hieroglyphic writing, which tells about the war between the Caracol and Tikal. In the excavation of the surrounding woods are found tapirs, jaguars, ocelots and thousands of birds, among which you can find rare in our time oranzhevogrudyh falcons and eagles, harpies.
The most visited travel destination in Europe 2012
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, commonly known as Sacré-Cœur Basilica is a Roman Catholic church and minor basilica, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, in Paris, France. A popular landmark, the basilica is located at the summit of the butte Montmartre, the highest point in the city.
Notre Dame de Paris
Notre Dame de Paris for "Our Lady of Paris", also known as Notre Dame Cathedral or simply Notre Dame, is a historic Roman Catholic Marian cathedral on the eastern half of the Île de la Cité in the fourth arrondissement of Paris, France. Widely considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture and among the most well-known churches ever built, Notre Dame is the cathedral of the Catholic Archdiocese of Paris; that is, it is the church that contains the cathedra (official chair) of the Archbishop of Paris, currently André Vingt-Trois.
The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul
The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with 61 covered streets and over 3,000 shops which attract between 250,000 and 400,000 visitors daily.
Louvre Museum, Paris
The Musée du Louvre , the Louvre Museum or simply the Louvre is one of the world's largest museums, the most visited art museum in the world and a historic monument. A central landmark of Paris, France, it is located on the Right Bank of the Seine in the 1st arrondissement (district). Nearly 35,000 objects from prehistory to the 19th century are exhibited over an area of 60,600 square metres
St. Peter's Square
Designed and built by Bernini between 1656 and 1667, during the pontificate of Alexander VII (1655-1667), the square is made up of two different areas. The first has a trapezoid shape, marked off by two straight closed and convergent arms on each side of the church square. The second area is elliptical and is surrounded by the two hemicycles of a four-row colonnade, because, as Bernini said, “considering that Saint Peter’s is almost the matrix of all the churches, its portico had to give an open-armed, maternal welcome to all Catholics, confirming their faith; to heretics, reconciling them with the Church; and to the infidels, enlightening them about the true faith.”
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, commonly known as Sacré-Cœur Basilica is a Roman Catholic church and minor basilica, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, in Paris, France. A popular landmark, the basilica is located at the summit of the butte Montmartre, the highest point in the city.
Notre Dame de Paris
Notre Dame de Paris for "Our Lady of Paris", also known as Notre Dame Cathedral or simply Notre Dame, is a historic Roman Catholic Marian cathedral on the eastern half of the Île de la Cité in the fourth arrondissement of Paris, France. Widely considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture and among the most well-known churches ever built, Notre Dame is the cathedral of the Catholic Archdiocese of Paris; that is, it is the church that contains the cathedra (official chair) of the Archbishop of Paris, currently André Vingt-Trois.
The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul
The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with 61 covered streets and over 3,000 shops which attract between 250,000 and 400,000 visitors daily.
Louvre Museum, Paris
The Musée du Louvre , the Louvre Museum or simply the Louvre is one of the world's largest museums, the most visited art museum in the world and a historic monument. A central landmark of Paris, France, it is located on the Right Bank of the Seine in the 1st arrondissement (district). Nearly 35,000 objects from prehistory to the 19th century are exhibited over an area of 60,600 square metres
St. Peter's Square
Designed and built by Bernini between 1656 and 1667, during the pontificate of Alexander VII (1655-1667), the square is made up of two different areas. The first has a trapezoid shape, marked off by two straight closed and convergent arms on each side of the church square. The second area is elliptical and is surrounded by the two hemicycles of a four-row colonnade, because, as Bernini said, “considering that Saint Peter’s is almost the matrix of all the churches, its portico had to give an open-armed, maternal welcome to all Catholics, confirming their faith; to heretics, reconciling them with the Church; and to the infidels, enlightening them about the true faith.”
World's most scenic Highways - Road to Hana
It's no wonder the aloha 'aina (love of the land) spirit is the bedrock of Hawaiian tradition. A drive on Maui's beloved Hana Highway (also called "the road to Hana") offers such an awe-inspiring display of natural beauty that you'll soon revel in the same sentiment. This serpentine trek starts off in Paia, famous for its surfer-swept shores, and zigzags east along the coast for more than 50 miles, all the while embracing 600 hairpin curves, 54 one-lane bridges, and some of the island's most spectacular sights. Indeed, Keanae Arboretum (an exotic botanical garden), Waikani Falls (a trio of crashing chutes), Ka'eleku Caverns (an ancient cavern system created from a lava flow thousands of years ago), and Waianapanapa State Park (home to a famous black-sand beach and fresh-water caves) are all in close proximity.
Your excursion will land you in the sleepy coastal village of Hana, where you can take
up shack and relish the quiet countryside and local culture or, continue a tad further
to Haleakala National Park where you can cool your jets in Oheo Gulch (aka the Seven
Sacred Pools). Keep your windows down as you go and breathe in the sweet air infused
with eucalyptus and ginger. To get the most out of the drive, pick up a "The Hana Road
Self-Guided Drive" CD from the Shell gas station on Route 380 in Kahului; it narrates
the journey and highlights all of the must-sees.
- Location: East Maui
- Amenities: Restrooms, gift shops, picture opportunities, lunch.
- Insider Tip: Forget driving these forever-winding roads, take a guided tour!
- Fun Fact: This winding, 68-mile road features over 600 curves and 50 single-lane bridges!
- What To Expect: Beautiful beaches, gorgeous waterfalls, tropical rainforests and more.
- Pop Culture: Beatles guitarist George Harrison bought a 63-acre estate near Hana in 2001.
Amazing Places Around The Globe: Hotel Goldeneye Jamaica
Imagine yourself far away from the city chaos, on a secluded 18 acre retreat enjoying the surrounding lush green tropical trees by the stunning blue sea! That's exactly what you can expect at the historic Goldeneye. Its villas are cozy and superbly designed with lots of wood, cane and cool tones. The Royal Palm comes with a kitchen, a bar, 3 bedrooms and has a large deck that opens into the water. Villa 1 is tucked under a huge banyan tree and has an exotic open shower besides the other facilities. The other two villas and the Fleming House also have unique tropical architecture. For some outdoor adventure, they have jet skis, glass-bottomed boats, massage services, and snorkeling equipment for rent.
With it's lavish accommodations and gorgeous view, this property will never disappoint. If you're looking to experience the laid-back atmosphere of the Caribbean islands, this is the resort for you!
The climate in Jamaica is what. The average temperatures ranges from 77°F (25.5°C) during the winter months, and 82°F (28°C) during the summer months. However, it is important to remember that the climate is strongly affected by the sea; therefore, rain and wind can have an effect on the temperatures. Rain showers are particularly frequent in the northeast part of the island, but the sun usually comes out right afterwards. You can expect the best weather during the winter season (December to April). It is hot and sunny during the afternoons, and warm during the evenings.
Shakespeare's Birthplace - part of the Shakespeare story
Shakespeare's Birthplace has been welcoming visitors for over 250 years. William Shakespeare grew up here and he played here. He ate meals in the hall and he slept and dreamed in these rooms. Shakespeare also spent the first five years of married life in this house with his new wife, Anne Hathaway.
For millions of Shakespeare enthusiasts worldwide, the house is a shrine. You will discover the world that shaped the man and you'll find out what other famous writers thought when they visited here. Well-known visitors have included Charles Dickens, John Keats, Walter Scott and Thomas Hardy.
Shakespeare's Birthplace is a fascinating house that offers a tantalising glimpse into Shakespeare's early world. It's a special place that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime.
Welcome to the secret paradise of Lagomandra, Greece
Neos Marmaras - Sithonia
Chalkidiki (Lagomandra beach) - Greece
P.C. 63088, Nikiti
Situated among the bright green foot of Mt Itamos and the deep blue waters of Toroneos Gulf, at the golden beach og Lagomandra, which has been awarded the EU Blue Flags, is the Lagomandra Hotels Complex.
Lagomandra Hotel situated 120 metres from the beach (by bridge over the main road). Its location by the mountains and the golden beach makes an irresistibly enchanting setting for all guests to enjoy. The beach itself is consistently awarded with blue flags, making it safe and clean for all the family. Only 100 km from the airport of Thessaloniki and 6 km from the pretty yet cosmopolitan town of Neos Marmaras, Lagomandra is conveniently placed to explore this attractive area of Greece.
Hotel facilities and services include lobby with reception, parking, 2 restaurants, roof garden, traditional tavern, snack bar, TV room, internet, laundry, swimming pools, children's pools, transfer from the airport, pool bar, table tennis, billiards, mini-bus transport to Neos Marmaras, beach with blue flag of the Mediterranean, beach bar, deckchairs and parasols on the beach, playground, water sports ... Hotel guests can use the facilities of the entire complex.
Direction from Thessaloniki International Airport
1. Head southeast on Choros Anachoriseon toward Aerodromiou 550 m
2. Choros Anachoriseon turns slightly right and becomes Aerodromiou 2.7 km
3. Keep right at the fork and merge onto Thessalonikis-Neon Moudanion 47.7 km
4. Take the ramp to N. Moudania 240 m
5. Keep right at the fork, follow signs for Polygyros Sithonia and merge onto Komvos Neon Moudanion 350 m
6. Continue onto Neon Moudanion-Polygyrou 12.7 km
7. Continue onto Polygyrou-Sithonias 20.6 km
8. Continue onto Leoforos Sithonias 3.5 km
9. Continue onto Polygyrou-Sithonias 1.5 km
10. Keep right at the fork 100 m
11. Slight right onto Perimetriki Sithonias 10.8 km.
Chalkidiki (Lagomandra beach) - Greece
P.C. 63088, Nikiti
Situated among the bright green foot of Mt Itamos and the deep blue waters of Toroneos Gulf, at the golden beach og Lagomandra, which has been awarded the EU Blue Flags, is the Lagomandra Hotels Complex.
Lagomandra Hotel situated 120 metres from the beach (by bridge over the main road). Its location by the mountains and the golden beach makes an irresistibly enchanting setting for all guests to enjoy. The beach itself is consistently awarded with blue flags, making it safe and clean for all the family. Only 100 km from the airport of Thessaloniki and 6 km from the pretty yet cosmopolitan town of Neos Marmaras, Lagomandra is conveniently placed to explore this attractive area of Greece.
Hotel facilities and services include lobby with reception, parking, 2 restaurants, roof garden, traditional tavern, snack bar, TV room, internet, laundry, swimming pools, children's pools, transfer from the airport, pool bar, table tennis, billiards, mini-bus transport to Neos Marmaras, beach with blue flag of the Mediterranean, beach bar, deckchairs and parasols on the beach, playground, water sports ... Hotel guests can use the facilities of the entire complex.
Direction from Thessaloniki International Airport
1. Head southeast on Choros Anachoriseon toward Aerodromiou 550 m
2. Choros Anachoriseon turns slightly right and becomes Aerodromiou 2.7 km
3. Keep right at the fork and merge onto Thessalonikis-Neon Moudanion 47.7 km
4. Take the ramp to N. Moudania 240 m
5. Keep right at the fork, follow signs for Polygyros Sithonia and merge onto Komvos Neon Moudanion 350 m
6. Continue onto Neon Moudanion-Polygyrou 12.7 km
7. Continue onto Polygyrou-Sithonias 20.6 km
8. Continue onto Leoforos Sithonias 3.5 km
9. Continue onto Polygyrou-Sithonias 1.5 km
10. Keep right at the fork 100 m
11. Slight right onto Perimetriki Sithonias 10.8 km.
What should I do in Borneo
Malaysian Borneo is the world’s third biggest island and has much to offer the adventure seeking traveller. Unique wildlife, impenetrable forests and unspoilt islands make this a destination begging to be discovered.
Engage with the Iban people staying in a traditional longhouse, and head into the jungle wilderness of Mulu National Park on a longtail boat to explore the cave systems. Visit the Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre in Sepilok, cruise on the many ox-bow lakes ideal for wildlife viewing and take a jungle walk to search for Proboscis monkeys. Bathe in the naturally heated waters at Poring Hot Springs and take a canopy walk through the heights of the rainforest, or climb South East Asia’s highest mountain, Mount Kinabalu.
When all is said and done, relax on the pristine beaches of Beringgis, or swim and snorkel in the clear waters of the South China Sea - but if you’re still looking for adventure, opt for one of the nature trails, tribal village encounters or boat excursions to nearby islands.
Explore Sabah on its own, or combine with Sarawak and embark on our “All Borneo Discovery”. We also offer specific teen departures of our family itinerary which has the Kinabalu Trek included.



















































