Showboat Casino Atlantic City

By M. Dubson

The Showboat Casino is one of the newest additions to the hotel/casino family in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Owned by Harrahs, the same company with hotels both in Las Vegas and Atlantic City, this hotel advertises a non-stop party atmosphere. In fact it has been compared with being a part of Mardi Gras in New Orleans, only 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every week of the year.

This hotel features 1,329 guest rooms, full service spa, outdoor pool, lively casino, and the perfect location with being located directly on the Atlantic City Boardwalk. The Showboat Hotel and Casino also offers a The House of Blues, a live music venue that has hosted a wide variety of artists from the Backstreet Boys and Hanson to Billy Idol and B.B. King. If you're in the mood for theater the Showboat also hosts the musical Tony n' Tinas Wedding in which guests get to actually take part in this hilarious dinner show.

If you begin to feel parched between your hands of blackjack, or just need a quick drink during the intermission of one of Showboats live shows, you will be in luck as there are three separate bars all located within the hotel. If you start getting hungry the Showboat will still have you covered with seven different areas to grab some dinner or a light lunch, ranging from full on steak and chops at the House of Blues restaurant to a bagel and coffee at their full service Starbucks.

Whether you feel like shopping in the hotels high end gift shop, or just letting it all ride on the poker table, there are so many things to do at the Showboat Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City that if you wanted to, you would never even have to leave the hotel to have a fun and fulfilling vacation.

M. Dubson spends a good amount of time at the Showboat Atlantic City and having a good time watching some of the great shows at the all new Chelsea Hotel AC

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Best Hotels in Switzerland

By Jim H Collins

Switzerland has always been projected as an ultimate destination for tourists worldwide. Enjoying the envying attention for its Swiss alps, scenic splendors, picturesque location, sumptuous chocolates, magical ice covered mountains summits...Switzerland never fails to elude the senses of wanderlusts. With so much to look out for, bevy of travelers come to Switzerland from every part of the world. Keeping the high influx of tourists in mind, there are large number of luxury hotels in Switzerland , but economy travelers doesn't have to be disappointed as discount hotels in Switzerland are within everyone's paying capacity. For all the wannabe Switzerland aspirants, we have shortlisted the best hotels in Switzerland, which includes both luxury and discount hotels in Switzerland-

Badrutt's Palace Hotel St Moritz

St Moritz

Situated in an exotic location amidst the breathtakingly beautiful and unspoiled scenery, Badrutt's Palace Hotel, is an epitome of traditional elegance and discreet service as it creates an atmosphere of pampered luxury for all. There are total 169 sybaritic guest rooms offering amenities like stylish interiors,, Satellite TV, Mini-bar, Telephone, Hairdryer, Internet access, Stereo and Music library to make your stay a unique experience of style and comfort. With the stunning view of snow draped mountains from the window, it can stir the happiest emotions inside you.

Hailed as one of the best hotels in Switzerland, one can rejuvenate their mind, body and soul in hotel's spa; a dip in the indoor/outdoor swimming pool is all you need to feel relaxed, every gourmets dream come true: hotel's restaurants will take you to the finest culinary journey, equipped Business centre is apt for corporate functions and last but not the least Sauna, Beauty Salon and Boutique shopping are some of the many services that will enchant you.

Le President Wilson

Geneva

Displaying the unparalleled view of Switzerland beamingly, Le President Wilson joins the league of best hotels in Switzerland. Boasting 190 immaculate rooms, 21 Business Corner Suites, 13 Junior Suites, four Crown Suites and three Presidential Suites , there's so much of a space blended with luxury and sophistication here, that you will enjoy every second of your stay. With first-rate dining options in Spice's, Arabesque and Arabesque, serving continental dishes, delicious Lebanese cuisine and lip-smacking beverages, this hotel fulfills the fantasies of food and wine connoisseur. With state-of-the-art conferencing facilities and plenty of options to partake in winter sports like skiing and skating, surely it will be an out and out a fun stay.

Adler Hotel

Zurich

Located in the picturesque town in the Niederdorf area, Alder hotel is a discount hotel in Switzerland and offers 52 guest rooms laced with necessary modern amenities to make your stay pleasant. The hotel has a Swiss Chuchi Restaurant serving Swiss cuisines. Just a look out of the window and your eyes will meet the serenity of lake Zurich and other intriguing spectacle.

Jim H Collins has been working as an analyst for the world travel guides and have been effectively coordinating towards travel tips and guidance for world tours and leisures.

Explore more info at http://www.besthotelsofeurope.com/ and http://www.besthotelsofeurope.com/best-hotels-in-switzerland/

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Cambridge - Central College Bed and Breakfast Accommodation

By Charlies S Jones

From the tips of its Gothic spires to the smooth lawns of the college courts Cambridge exudes respectability and learning. People flock to this Fenland city to see just this but there is far more to Cambridge than Academia. Centuries of youth have concocted myths, sown legends and pulled off some frankly amazing and fool-hardy pranks.

Some myths are false; the Mathematical Bridge at Queen's College was not designed by Sir Isaac Newton but an Austin 7 did end up on top of the apex of the pediment on James Gibbs' stately Senate House. Was this the same Austin 7 that was once tied beneath the Bridge of Sighs? The mind boggles. Traffic cones and even a loo seat have adorned the lofty pinnacles of Kings College Chapel. The offending lavatorial trapping necessitated a steeplejack and the traffic cone a scaffold up one side of the immensely tall chapel. No sooner had half the great scaffold gone up, the traffic cone came down secretly and in the dead of night. The college had been well and truly pranked!

The charm of Cambridge lies in the variety of its buildings, open spaces and history and also in the quirkier touches. On entry to Trinity College Great Court a statue of the King sits grandly under its canopy. On closer inspection he holds not a magnificent sword but instead an old chair leg. One can't help feeling thankful to the students of today and yesteryear for bringing this charming mischievous slant to Cambridge's sensible outward facade.

It is surely the variety and sheer imagination of the architecture of the various Cambridge colleges that has fueled the fervent energy of student and teacher alike. Kings College Chapel is one of the great buildings of the World and the jewel of the British Renaissance. Only slightly less famous is Sir Christopher Wren's great Library at Trinity, which looks serenely across the Cam to the Backs, the beautiful park-like meadows on this side of Cambridge. Each college has its treasures, be it the unique Elizabethan Gate of Honour at Gonville and Cauis or the late Norman School of Pythagoras at St John's.

The joy of waking up in one of these ancient colleges is hard to forget and this is why the Cambridge Bed and Breakfast accommodation service is such a unique way of experiencing the city. You can literally become part of a college for your time there and sample the history first hand in this extraordinary City.

Charlie Jones is an expert in Cambridge Bed and Breakfast accommodation, more information can be found at http://www.cambridgerooms.co.uk

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Where to Stay in Beijing - Dongcheng

By Jake Strong

Beijing, China is a wonderful city. If it's your first time to China (or an Asian country) you might be a little disoriented. Beijing is a large city and there are many places to stay.

Today, I'm going to share with you a few places to stay in Dongcheng, which is in the eastern part of Beijing. In fact, if you're interested in visiting the Forbidden City, this is the area to stay in, because it's right by these accommodation locations. Dongcheng means "East City."

Grand Hotel

The Grand Hotel is a contemporary hotel that's right by the Forbidden City. You can venture up to the roof terrace, which overlooks the Forbidden City, for a fantastic view. This is a luxury hotel. While rates vary, plan on spending about 1,800 Yuan ($263 USD when this was written).

Red Capital Residence

For a more traditional hotel that's priced a little less, try the Red Capital Residence. It's located in Dongsi, which is a historic preservation district. This is a smaller boutique-type accommodation, so book well ahead of time. Don't forget to take their Beijing at night tour by limo too.

Peninsula Palace Hotel

This luxury hotel is decorated with many Chinese artifacts in the lobby. You'll enjoy Asian luxury here. If the Forbidden City is on your China travel itinerary, you'll be please to know that the Peninsula Palace Hotel is about a 10-minute walk from it. This hotel is located smack dab in the business and commercial district.

There are many places to stay at in Beijing. These are but a couple great accommodations in Dongcheng (East City).

Stop! Going to China? I'd recommend you read this "When to Visit China" article from ChinaTourist.org, which is a great site about China travel & vacations. It's a good place to get China travel tips.

We talked a lot about the "Forbidden City" in this article. Click on that link to see a great picture of the Forbidden City and to read more about it. Do you know how much it costs to visit the Forbidden City? That article will tell you--and more.

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The Colorful Malaysia - Kuala Lumpur Hotels

By Steve Wong

Kuala Lumpur is the largest city and the capital of Malaysia. Besides for being the commercial center of the country, visitors will discover Kuala Lumpur a fascinating destination for shopping, recreation, amusement, sightseeing and nightlife. The local ethnic groups who are majority the Malays, Chinese and Indians, are very amicable to tourists. Malaysia is very rich in cultures, and you can taste a variety of local cuisines prepared by the different ethnic groups.

The hotels are scatted around the city, and the most popular hotel location is in the heart of the downtown. Usually the hotels are located close to some great landmarks, popular shopping malls, China Town, nightlife districts and other points of interest. You should consider staying in a hotel nearby a train station. Kuala Lumpur hotel price can vary according to the time of the year and the hotel's location. The best way to get the best-discounted deals is to compare hotel price from different travel sites. Many hotels offer free shutter service to the city landmarks, with free wi-fi access in the room and free oriental buffet breakfast.

Kuala Lumpur is accessible by road, air, rail and sea travels, and it is the main gateway to many cities in Malaysia. The KLIA Express high-speed train will connect you from the KL International Airport to the Sentral Station in just 28 minutes. Taxis, electric trains and buses will transport you from the hotels to any parts of the city. You are recommended to take a ride on the monorail for a city tour during the day or the night.

Kuala Lumpur is a sanctuary for shoppers. Its premiere shopping district is at the Bukit Bintang area, the Golden Triangle. The entertainment, shopping, and dining hub in the Golden Triangle is extremely happening and popular. Golden Triangle, which packs with pubs and clubs, is famous for its fascinating nightlife.

At approximately 457 meters tall, the Petronas Twin Towers are two of the tallest buildings in the world. Other famous landmarks are The Eyes On Malaysia gigantic Ferris ride and the KL Telecommunications Tower.

Kuala Lumpur is an extremely colorful and vibrant city especially for the first-time visitors traveling to Asia. It will never run short of activities to entertain you and your whole family. The luxury hotels offer world class facilities and services. Just remember to do your research on Kuala Lumpur hotel price before making any reservation.

Steve Wong often holds a cup of cappuccino with a clear mind and start to do his pondering. He has a big dream to travel and meet the great people around the world.

http://www.all-traveldeals.com

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Scotland Bed and Breakfast

By Ruth M

Travelling in strange countries is exciting but not having a good sleep at night can spoil the daytime activities. Careful preparation of your accommodation needs is essential to try to minimalise lack of sleep and I suggest a reasonable time is given to this well in advance of your trip.

Scotland is a country in its own right. It is not part of England or Wales although it shares the same island and is part of the United Kingdom. It is a beautiful country with a variable climate and the seasons are well defined. Winters are not nearly as hard as they were 50 years ago and our roads are kept in superb condition during snow and icy conditions.

Much of the bed and breakfast/guest house accommodation is regulated by the Scottish Tourist Board or the alternative name of visitscotland.com. Businesses have to be a member of this national organisation and are charged fees in accordance with business size. Visitscotland send assessors to every property at least once a year to assess the quality of the business. Usually bed and breakfasts have between 1 - 3 guest bedrooms which are part of the family home. Visitors who like to glean local knowledge enjoy such stays as there is often good contact with the owners. Guest houses normally have more than 3 rooms and the owners do not always stay on the premises although most do.

Visitscotland introduced a star rating system a few years ago and this is now being adopted by England and Wales to stop the confusion of stars, crowns, diamonds etc. The rating system works from 1 - 5 stars with 1 being the lower end of the market and 5 being the top end. This also applies to hotels where the inspection system includes kitchen but it does NOT include kitchens in bed and breakfasts or guest houses. All sorts of excuses have been given to me for not inspecting kitchens but I find them implausible as I think the kitchen is important - I would go as far as saying it is more important than the ensuite (a bath or shower room attached to a particular bedroom). It is important visitors know that kitchens are not taken into account when visitscotland make their assessments.

Once you have browsed for and found your choice of accommodation email the business if possible then you will have direct contact with the owner. Many websites do not give much information so this is the time you ask questions. Is the room on a main road? Is there adequate private parking? Are there many stairs? Do you have pets? (for those who do not like domestic pets) What are the breakfast times? Is there a choice for breakfast? (some places have a set breakfast and others only give continental breakfasts) Is there a lounge? How far from the town are you? What is there to do in the evening? The list is really endless but the more you know the more your stay will be enjoyable for you.

Personally I would choose a bed and breakfast or guest house which has a good website and answers many of the questions and is not afraid to have a small video or slideshow to show you what to expect. Nowadays it is easy for a computer illiterate such as myself to make something and many people do appreciate the effort no matter how amateurish it is.

So the choice is down to the traveller. Between 1 - 5 stars, bed and breakfast, guest house or hotel and be aware price does not always mean quality - an error many of us make.

Happy holiday in Scotland.

http://www.heathparklodge.co.uk

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Choose A Historic Dublin Hotel For Your Stay

By Mairead Foley

· Gresham Hotel

The Gresham Hotel is a top 4 star Dublin hotel with a superb location on O'Connell Street, Dublin's main street.

You'll have no problem recognising the hotels historic up-lighted façade with a row of flags over the entrance. Once you step into the lobby you'll know you are somewhere special with its magnificent chandeliers and marble floors.

The hotel has been welcoming guests in the heart of Dublin for over 200 years so it claims to be one of the oldest hotels in Ireland!

It's called after a Mr.Thoman Gresham, who bought the building in 1817, when O'Connell Street was known as Sackville Street.

· Clontarf Castle Hotel

This exclusive 4 star Dublin hotel is located in Clontarf about a 10 minute drive from the city centre.

This is a magnificent castle hotel so it's a really special place to stay as it's steeped in history. The first castle at this site is said to have dated back to 1172, but the building today dates back as far as 1837.

The Clontarf area is famous as being the location of the Battle of Clontarf which took place in 1014.

The hotel has all the luxuries of a 4 star hotel but still retains all the ancient character of the castle with a magnificent entrance hall, hanging tapestries, mysterious doorways, eye-catching antiques and roaring fires.

It really has a setting fit for a King!

· Radisson SAS St. Helen's Hotel

This Radisson is an opulent 5 star hotel located in Stillorgan on the south side of Dublin city.

The hotel is a fantastic retreat surrounded by beautiful gardens and overlooking Dublin Bay in the distance.

This restored mansion was at one time one of the most important historic houses in Ireland.

The original house was built for a local barrister and member of parliament by the name of Thomas Cooley back in 1750. It was later purchased in 1851 by Viscount Hugh Gough and renamed St. Helen's.

· Merrion Hotel

This elegant 5 star hotel can be found in a beautiful part of Georgian Dublin - Merrion Square, right in the heart of the city centre.

The main building of this hotel is actually comprised of four beautifully restored Grade I Georgian townhouses. These Georgian townhouses were built by Lord Monck back in the 1760's. One of these houses was leased to the Earl of Mornington and as well as that it was also the birthplace of the Duke of Wellington.

Down through the years, the hotel has been sympathetically restored with beautifully detailed plasterwork ceilings. It is the epitome of luxury and grandeur with crackling fires, marble floor, chandeliers and antiques.

· Camden de Luxe

This 2 star Dublin hotel is located on Camden Street not far from St. Stephen's Green in Dublin city centre.

The Camden de Luxe is a listed building which was once home to the Theatre de Luxe. The theatre closed back in 1957 and its façade and much of its features have remained intact. The hotel's nightclub was once the theatre's auditorium and was also featured in Alan Parker's film 'The Commitments'.

· School House Hotel

The stylish 4 star School House Hotel is located on Northumberland Road in Ballsbridge.

As the name suggest, this building was once home to St.Stephen's Parochial School which opened its doors in 1861 and for 100 years it served the teaching needs of the surrounding areas.

The school eventually closed in 1969 and re-opened as a hotel in 1998. It truly is one of the most unique and luxurious hotels in Dublin. It retains many of its original features and charm with two former classrooms now home to the hotel's award winning bar and restaurant.

· George Frederic Handel Hotel

This 2 star Dublin hotel is located right at the heart of Temple Bar in the city centre. Temple Bar is the hub of Dublin's nightlife.

The hotel stands on the grounds of the once famous Music Hall where Handel performed the "Messiah" for the very first time back in 1742.

Fishamble Street is the name of the street the hotel is located on and it's said that it is one of the oldest streets in Dublin city!

Book Galway hotels now for your visit.

Mairead Foley writes for Ireland travel website http://www.GoIreland.com

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A Quick Round Up of Bali Internet-Enabled Hotels

By Paul Heap

At the cheapest end we have the Puri Dewa Bharata Hotel, which has is in the middle of Bali, making it a popular choice for all types of travellers. Facilities include telephone, air conditioning, television, balcony/terrace, minibar, baby crib upon request, broadband internet. Additionally there are safe box, mail service, morning call, city transfers, travel counter, currency exchange, airport pick-up and drop-off, cocktail lounge. After a day of work or exploring, massage, outdoor pool, spa are some of the ways to unwind.

Moving upscale we have Downtown Villas at Jalan Pura Dalem 9D. With 9 architecturally stunning, state of the art villas, this stands in Bali's trendiest district, is a mere 20 minute drive from Bali International Airport. Located in the shopping and dining area of trendy Seminyak, this five-star villa is also just a 10-minute walk from famous Kuta Beach. Taking Balinese traditional art along with modern decor and chic furnishings, each villa has its own tropical gardens as well as a 20m swimming pool.

At the top end we have the Karma Jimbaran Hotel. Set in the center of Jimbaran, Bali. Karma Jimbaran's 38 luxury villas dot the gentle hillside that leads down to the blue waters of Jimbaran Bay. Sitting like a jewel in the heart of each villa's tropical gardens is a private pool. The scent of frangipani trees lingers on the sea breeze, and the villas are private sanctuaries that create an environment that is hard to leave. The spacious indoor living area combines with an open plan, fully-equipped kitchen.

Other hotels with internet access that might be considered are the Viceroy Bali Hotel, and the Como Shambhala Estate at Begawan Giri Hotel. Bali has a huge selection of quality hotels and is the perfect destination for relaxation whilst keeping in touch with email, internet and friends.

Paul Heap is the webmaster behind Bali wi-fi Hotels

Bali wi-fi Hotels

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Jumeirah Beach Hotels - Exclusive and Luxurious

By Nancy E Eben

Jumeirah beach is home to many of Dubai's best hotels, which are very well renowned in the world. Moreover, the area is heavily populated coastal residential area of Dubai, UAE. Jumeirah Beach is in fact not one beach but a vast long strip of sand with bath temperature waters of the Arabian Gulf. Over the time the public beach has been officially become the private preserve of the ever-increasing series of beachside luxury Jumeirah Beach Hotels Dubai, but this does not stop people to from roaming around where they feel like. To experience the famous beach Dubai hotels Jumeirah beach are ideally located with excellent facilities. The long stretch of public beach offers a beautiful setting, with its clean white sand, crystal clear seawater and bath-temperature surf.

On of the most exclusive parts of Dubai Jumeirah Beach has resulted in using the Jumeirah name as a brand which denotes exclusivity. This area of Dubai is very popular for its exclusive and large properties as well as many modest town houses built in a variety of architectural styles. The area has become home to a majority of European and Western emigrants working in the oil and real estate industry. Even tourists visiting Dubai, make it a point to visit Jumeirah Beach and with the government of Dubai coming up with numerous modern hotels such as the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and the world famous Burj Al Arab and a host of attractions has certainly made it a destination for tourists. As the history goes, the Arabs living in the Jumeirah area were fishermen, pearl divers and traders, but the Jumeirah area became the focus for the western expatriate residences, and today the area is undergoing a huge growth in housing developments.

Tourist Attractions in Jumeirah Beach

Jumeirah Beach

Of the many beaches in Dubai Jumeirah beach is the most famous and equally popular among the tourists. The beach is a long stretch of beach on the Arabian Gulf bordered by line of Jumeirah Beach Hotels Dubai and private clubs. The beaches of Jumeirah have soft white sand and the shallow waters of the Arabian Gulf touching the shores, creates mystical and magical atmosphere. For some fun and adventure one gets to enjoy a host of water sports here like windsurfing, water-skiing, sailing and even scuba diving.

Jumeirah Mosque

Jumeirah Mosque is the most famous mosque in this part of Dubai and even the most photographed building in the city. This building is a striking example of modern Islamic architecture, which was built along medieval Fatimid lines. The building is built entirely of stone, the mosque and its two minarets are unique. With the use of subtle lighting, the building looks made more attractive at night. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter mosques in Dubai, although they can enter this one if on an organized tour.

Jumeirah Centre

Located on the outskirts of the city, Jumeirah Centre is a favorite with both visitors and residents alike. The mall is located on the Beach Road close to the Jumeirah Mosque. It shopping center has been so designed as to make the shopper feel comfortable while going through the extensive range of shops. A shopping trip to Jumeirah Centre offers a wide range of fashion accessories, whether from the boutiques, the shoe shop, the opticians of the watch shops - all of the finest quality.

Palm Islands

Palm islands ate three islands, which have become one of Dubai's main attractions in the area of Jumeirah Beach. It is said that the three islands, are visible from the moon, form the largest manmade islands in the world. The first of the island Palm Jumeirah features a number of hotels as well as private residences, whereas the Palm Jebel Ali is slated to have more leisure facilities, including an aquatic theme park, when it opens in 2008. The third of the islands, Palm Deira, will be more equipped towards residential use with over 7,000 villas, and will be the largest of the islands.

Wild Wadi Dubai

For hours of fun and pleasure, situated between Burj Al Arab and the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Wild Wadi Dubai offers just that. It is an exciting, state-of-the-art water park where an unforgettable adventure awaits. The water park is an absolute delight for thrill-seekers and families alike.

Nancy Eben is an associate editor of a1DubaiHotels.com.The website offers exclusive information of Dubai and Jumeirah Beach Dubai Hotel. We appreciate your feedback and queries at k.alana098@gmail.com

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Youth Hostels in Japan

By Richie Johns

Regulations and membership

It is possible to stay at a youth hostel even if you aren't a member, but it will cost you approximately 600 yen more per night at the privately owned ones (the government run youth hostels charge you the same regardless of whether you are a member or not). At the privately run youth hostels, if you are staying more than 5 days you are better off becoming a member because as a non-member it will cost you 3,600 yen for 6 days. In fact, if you stay for 6 nights as a non-member you automatically receive a member's card. Membership prices vary according to age. If you are over 19 it is 2,500 yen with an annual renewal fee of 2,000 yen. If you are under 19 it is 1,500 yen and an annual renewal fee of 1,000 yen. You must be over 4 years old to use the Youth Hostels. To become a member is fairly easy to do by going to one of the youth hostels prefectural offices. If you are already a member of a youth hostel in your own country you can use that membership. There are 60 locations in Tokyo and 800 in Japan where you can register. When you go there you are required to have a license or something which identifies you such as a health insurance card. Once you become a member it entitles you to receive discounts (usually 10-20%) on train travel, plane fares, museums and other public facilities. You can also get cheap rent-a-car from Orix (10%) or Nissan rent-a-car (5%).

Rooms

Most bunk bed rooms are in western style, but there are some rooms with Tatami Mats. Although youth hostels are gender separated, private rooms can also be made available to families or groups.

Pricing Average pricing for accommodation at a Youth hostel with 2 square meals is about 4,500 yen/day, although pricing varies between 3,000 yen to 5,000 yen per night. If you pay 5,000 yen you can often get a room with a bath.

Rules

When you stay at a youth hostel in Japan you are required to clean your own table and put your sheets on the bed. Although the food is pretty good the prices are comparatively low.

Reservations

You can book a room 90 days in advance by phone. Generally, cancellation fees don't apply if you cancel at least 4-6 days in advance. If you cancel one day prior to your stay it costs 50% of the accommodation fee.

Alternatives to Youth Hostels

In addition to youth hostels, there are youth guest houses which are a grade up from youth hostels which are explained in a separate article. Youth Guest Houses are a great alternative for people who don't want to 'rough it' and for those traveling in groups who are looking for decent accommodation. According to some industry insiders, one reason why youth guest houses have come about is because the number of people using youth hostels dropped in recent years. According to one of the youth guest hostel owners there used to be over 600 youth hostels with over 600,000 members but now there are only about 350 youth hostels with 100,000 members. This drop is possibly due to the poor state of the facilities and comparatively low standard of service.

Richie Johns is a long term resident of Japan and runs a site called Bignavi.jp, which allows users to easily search for information on housing, classifieds, jobs, travel etc. This site also includes unique tips on living and working in Japan.

Article source: Youth Hostels in Japan

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Interesting Places to Stay in Shrewsbury

By Ungira Pandit

Shrewsbury is a wonderful historical destination with the same street layout since its medieval days. Shrewsbury is located in the West Midland regions of England. Shrewsbury comprises of ancient landmarks dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries such the Shrewsbury Castle, Shrewsbury Monastery and Rowley's House Museum. The best part of Shrewsbury is that most of the ancient structures have been turned into hotels and inns that you can stay at, during your visit to Shrewsbury. There is a wide assortment of Shrewsbury hotels to choose from. Some of the popular hotels in Shrewsbury include The Prince Rupert Hotel, Lion Hotel, Rowton Castle Hotel, Albright Hussey Manor Hotel and The Lord Hill Hotel.

The Prince Rupert Hotel was once the home of King James' grandson. This hotel encompasses all the modern amenities one needs along with the old rustic feel of a traditional landmark contained in its 70 rooms. When stepping outside of this Shrewsbury hotel you can walk along the cobblestone streets to visit the local attractions and observe the Tudor style buildings of this town.

The Lion Hotel is one of the places to stay in Shrewsbury and is a coaching inn from the 17th century. The Lion Hotel was known for its old horse and buggy coaching services from London to Shrewsbury and features 16th century architecture with Tudor fireplaces. This was the very place Charles Dickens wrote one of his most famous pieces of literature, The Pickwick Papers. Charles Darwin was also known to stay here on occasion along with Paganini the famous Italian composer and violinist from 1833. This is one Shrewsbury hotel that is full of history and tradition that many tourists choose to lodge in.

What about staying in a castle? One of few Shrewsbury hotels which offers you the divine experience of staying in an actual castle, is the Rowton Castle Hotel. This 800 year old castle from the 17th century was once a family home now turned into a hotel. The Rowton Castle Hotel is one of the hotels in Shrewsbury encompassing 17 acres of land with 19 rooms for your desire. The rooms all have carved fireplaces, antique furniture and breathtaking views of Shrewsbury's gardens, lakes and beautiful Welsh countryside. This castle is located 4 miles from the centre of Shrewsbury and provides anyone looking for a quiet, comforting countryside getaway.

The Albright Hussey Manor Hotel is situated on the outskirts of Shrewsbury and is an original Tudor style hotel. If you are looking for a countryside accommodation in the city of Shrewsbury this would be the perfect option. It has historical significance with the Battle of Shrewsbury that was fought nearby. This hotel features oak panelling, open fireplaces and original moulded beams. This hotel contains 26 rooms surrounded by a real moat which makes it one of the most enchanting places to stay in Shrewsbury!

The Lord Hill Hotel is one of the places to stay in Shrewsbury dating back to the 16th century. This hotel of Shrewsbury was named after a heroic soldier who fought in the Battle of Waterloo. There is a column built in his honour which stands 200 yards away from this hotel. This Shrewsbury hotel contains 36 bedrooms and offers fine dining and traditional wines to help you immerse in the relaxed atmosphere of this historical town. This hotel is just a 15 minutes walk from the centre of town!

There are many places to stay in Shrewsbury, but stay at a monumental hotel that's part of the history of this town. Relax and breathe in the healthy countryside air of Shrewsbury on your next holiday break.

Open Roads has extensive experience in the travel and tourism industries. They offer useful information and holiday packages for places to stay in Shrewsbury and innovative ways to improve travel planning catered to your specific interests and needs.

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Experience the Trails at Bellrowan Valley Horse Riding

By Shane Fritsch

Take some time out from your stay at one of the lovely Port Macquarie hotels to check out the fun and peaceful outdoor relaxation you will find on the trails at Bellrowan Valley Horse Riding!

You may be saying, "I have never ridden a horse before in my life, and I don't think it would be particularly relaxing or enjoyable to learn how at this stage of my life." At Bellrowan Valley, it really doesn't matter if you have never even seen a real life horse! Those who staff this wonderful place are eager to introduce you to the joy of riding. You don't have to feel self-conscious about being a beginner, either. Many beginners have ridden here and are treated with the utmost respect and courtesy. You could not ask for a better introduction to horses and riding than what you will receive here as a first timer!

Bellrowan Valley is known as a rather unique place. Not just a stable with horses for hire, it is instead thought of as a venue where you receive much more than some time on the back of a horse! You feel almost as if you are with family members, and indeed, the owners pride themselves on the customer service that does not leave out the slightest little detail when it comes to making their visitors feel right at home - both on and off of the horse!

The horses are wonderful. They are a mixture of Draft-Cross horses and Arab, Thouroughbred, and Stockhorse breeds. Speaking of family, these particular horses are half-siblings, as they are all from the same stallion. Bellrowan Valley also has Australian Stockhorses, Quarter Horses, Appaloosas, and Thoroughbreds for your riding pleasure.

There are full day trips, half day trips, and overnight trips available. As well as enjoying the ride and seeing things from a horses' eye view, you can also take some remarkable photos if you should be photographically inclined. At times, you may want to dismount and take in some sightseeing, and that is allowed as well. The guides that will accompany you on these excursions are experienced with riders of all levels of experience, and you can be sure that the strictest of safety standards for all concerned are in force.

Bellrowan is well known for its aptly named Pub Ride. Ride your horse to the pub, tie it up outside, and walk into the bar just a couple of feet from where you dismounted - just like the do it on television! This is a weekend trip, and it is delightfully suited for singles, couples, groups, and families. If this sounds interesting to you, you may want to keep it in mind before you book accommodation in Port Macquarie NSW as this trip is all inclusive. Riding, meals, and your accommodations are included in one price. There aren't too many places you can go in this area where you can have this much fun!

Full and half day trips are available seven days a week, depending on the weather conditions. The Pub Trip is, of course, weekends only.

If you're looking for a Port Macquarie Hotel, Beach Blue Resorts offers quality Port Macquarie Accommodation at an affordable price. For more information, please visit Port Macquarie Accommodation.

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Arizona Resort & Day Spa Tops the World's Best List

By Barbara B. Wade

Since their inception in the 1980s, day spas have become wildly popular worldwide. In a culture filled with stress, hectic schedules and a mind-numbing pace, spas offer welcome and much-needed downtime if even for an hour or two. According to two prominent industry authorities, when offered a global selection of destinations, travelers placed southwest locations - such as Scottsdale, Arizona resorts and spas - at the top of their lists.

In fact, three of the top five spas that earned Travel and Leisure's World's Best Award for 2007 were located in Arizona. What makes this state such a prime destination? The climate.

Benefits of Arizona's Dry Climate

Ask anyone with allergies and they will quickly tell you they can breathe easier in a dry climate as opposed to a humid one. That's primarily because chronically high levels of humidity (as often found in southern states) bring with it higher levels of mold and other unwanted irritants. In addition, humidity can cause breathing problems for those with asthma because it can contribute to the swelling of airways.

The solution lies in the dry, desert climate of cities like Tucson or Scottsdale. Resort hotels and spas in this region of Arizona stood out in SpaFinder's 2007 State of Spa Travel survey. Given global choices, respondents noted that spas on the West Coast and in the Southwest United States were their top choices. But that's not the only opinion they voiced.

Travelers' #1 Consideration

The SpaFinder's survey revealed participants' number-one consideration when making travel plans for a spa: the facilities. Over half of respondents reported that the accommodations and spa offerings were what they considered as most important in making their selections. One quarter named cuisine, activities, desirable region, proximity to sightseeing and attractions, among other factors, as most important.

One Scottsdale, Arizona resort keys in on these customer desires by offering specialty accommodations including patio guestrooms, garden courtyard guestrooms and lagoon guestrooms. The accompanying spa boasts the use of certified organic and biodynamic herbs from their own herb farms to enhance traditional massage, manicure, pedicure and facial treatments.

Most Important Element

Whether they chose to visit Palm Springs, Austin or Scottsdale, resort-goers expressed that pampering was the biggest draw for attending a spa, with a full 84% describing it as "very important." That should come as no surprise since the primary purpose of day spas has always been to pamper and de-stress its clientele.

Restaurants

One further consideration should be the cuisine available at the resort or spa you choose. While it typically isn't mandatory that guests dine at the on-site restaurant, oftentimes packages are available that include restaurant privileges. If you have a preference of food or adhere to a particular diet, you might benefit by asking for details regarding dining options.

You'll certainly want to take part in both sides of the spa experience: soothing and rejuvenating the outside as well as cleansing and pampering the inside. Ask about steam spa treatments to flush the skin followed by juices, broths or herbal teas designed to rid your system of unwanted elements that accumulate over time.

Then indulge yourself with an invigorating massage in the morning and a virtuous yet elegant dinner at night. With highly acclaimed, five-star chefs on staff, spa restaurants are well known for meals that are both nutritious and delectable.

Whether you agree with what those in these surveys voiced or have your own set of criteria for choosing a resort and spa, one thing is certain: You'll feel rejuvenated, more relaxed and likely have a better outlook after your visit.

Barbara Wade writes articles for FireSky Resort and Spa, a Scottsdale, Arizona resort with excellent accommodations and stunning scenery. The FireSky Resort and Spa offers luxurious spa facilities to help you relax and unwind. Visit http://www.fireskyresort.com. © 2008, All Rights Reserved

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New York City Hotel Deals

By Johnny Moon

Hotels In NYC Are Expensive

Hotels in New York City tend to be very expensive which is all the more reason to do your best to try to find as good a deal as possible. The good news is that unlike the "bad old days" when you would have had to call around to different hotels to get quotes on how much a hotel would be, you can find the best deal and make your NYC hotel reservations all online.

Make Your Hotel Reservations Online

Online reservations are the fast & easy way. And it's also quite safe. There is no reason to be anymore concerned about using your credit card online as you would be concerned about using your credit card over the phone. In fact if you think about it, it's safer to do it online because the phone operator could always record your information!

New York City Hotel Deals

You can find your next NYC hotel at the New York Hotel Deals website which is an easy to use hotel reservations website that is focused entirely around New York City hotels! Whether you are looking for a discount hotel or a luxury hotel you can find what you are looking for with this website. It also includes hotel reservations in all the NYC boroughs. There are 5 boroughs in all: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island.

Manhattan Neighborhoods

You can use this website to find a hotel in a specific Manhattan neighborhood such as the Lower East Side, Greenwich Village, or Chelsea.

Discount Deal?

For those looking for a discount deal you may want to stay in a borough other than Manhattan (where the rates are much higher.)

http://www.NewYorkHotelDeals.US

Grand Hyatt New York 4 Star Hotel In Manhattan.

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