The Dodecanese is a complex of over 163 islands and islets, set in the Aegean Sea, of which only 26 are inhabited. The islands form part of Greece's eastern border with Turkey. The largest islands of the Dodecanese are: Rhodes, Kos, Astipalea, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Kassos, Kastelorizo, Leros, Nisyros, Patmos, Symi and Tilos.

In the summer the prevailing wind is the Meltemi that blows from the N � NW. It blows from June through to October and at its peak may reach a force 7. The spring and autumn sees winds from the SE, usually with strengths between 2 � 4. Summer temperatures can rise to 35 deg C. The winters are mild.

The Dodecanese have been inhabited since prehistoric times. They were ruled first by the Minoans and then the Achaeans. But their economic and intellectual development began with the arrival of the Dorians in 1100. Kos prospered in the 4th and the 3rd century BC because of the School of Medicine founded there by Hippocrates. The Romans occupied the islands in 146 BC to be followed by the long Byzantine period till the time of the Crusaders. In 1309 the Knights of the Order of Saint John became the rulers of Rhodes and then extended their sovereignty to the other islands as well. In 1522 the islands fell to the Turks and in 1912 by the Italians. The islands of Dodecanese were united with Greece in 1948.

Patmos is in the north of the Dodecanese. Skala Patmos is the natural harbour on the eastern side of the island. Care is needed when approaching Skala, as there are several reefs. When the Meltemi is blowing the approach is subject to fierce gusts off the surrounding high land. Yachts can go bow or stern to the quay. The bottom is sand and weed and holding is good. There is reasonable shelter from the Meltemi but strong SE winds make the harbour untenable. Water is available on the quay and fuel can be delivered. Most provisions ca be obtained at Skala and there are good waterfront tavernas.
A visit to the monastery of St John is worthwhile but appropriate dress should be worn. Other anchorages on Patmos include: Ormos Meloyi, Ormos Livadhi, Ormos Kambos, Ormos Stavros and Ormos Grikou.

Arki lies 6 miles to the NE of Patmos. Yachts can anchor at Port Augusta. The bottom is good holding in mud and weed and the shelter is good. The only facilities are a couple of tavernas on the waterfront.

Nisos Lipso lies 2 miles to the S of Arki. There is a small harbour at the village of Lipso. Yachts can go bow or stern to the quay on the W side. Alternatively anchor of in the bay. The bottom is sand, mud and weed and the holding is bad. Water and fuel are available on the quay. Most provisions can be obtained in the village and there are several good tavernas on the waterfront serving fresh fish. The village is attractive and unspoilt by tourism. There are several bays on the south coast that yachts can anchor in.

Nisis Gaidharos is the northern most of the Dodecanese and lies only 8 miles of the Turkish coast. Ay Yeoryiou lies on the south coat of Gaidharos. Yachts can go bow or stern to the northern part of the ferry quay. Holding is good as I shelter from the Meltemi but strong southerlies make the harbour untenable. Provisions are limited and there are 3 tavernas.

Leros lies just to the north of Kalimnos. The island has spring water and parts of Leros are wooded and green. Lakki is in the SW of the island. Yachts can go bow or stern to in the marina and pick up a laid mooring line. There is water and electric at every berth. Most provisions can be obtained and there are tavernas nearby.

Ormos Parhteni is a large bay on the coast of Leros. Yachts can anchor in the eastern end of the bay. The south coast is a military installation and yachts are prohibited, as is photography of any part of the bay.

Ormos Alindas is a deep bay on the eastern coast. In the absence of a northerly wind yachts can go bow or stern to the mole. Alternatively anchor off on the western side of the pier. There is water near the quay and fuel in the village. Most provisions can be obtained and there are some tavernas on the waterfront.

Pandeli lies to the south of Ormos Alindas. Yachts can go bow or stern to the outer part of the mole or alternatively anchor off the beach. Good holding on a bottom of sand and weed. There is water on the quay and fuel can be delivered. Some provisions can be obtained but Platanos, a 15 minute walk away, provides better shopping. The setting is most attractive with bougainvillea, oleander and tamarisk growing everywhere in the village.

Kalimnos lies just to the south of Leros. It is in the main a barren island though there are some green valleys.

Pothia is the capital and is the centre of what remains of Greece's sponge fishing industry. Although most of the sponges are now taken from the North African coast. Yachts can go bow or stern to the quay in the SW just N of the ferry quay. The bottom in mud and weed and the holding is only moderate. There is good shelter from the Meltemi. There is water on the quay and fuel can be delivered. All provisions can be obtained and there are plenty of tavernas to choose from.

Vathi lies on the eastern side of Kalimnos. Yachts can go bow to the pier or the quay. The bottom is sand and weed and provides good holding. There is water on the quay and limited provisions can be obtained in the small village. The valley inland is very attractive with orange and lemon groves.

Pserimos is a small island just to the E of Kalimnos. Pserimos village is on the SW side. Yachts should anchor of where convenient. There are tavernas on what is a fine beach. This attracts tripper boats from the surrounding islands and the place gets packed in the summer.

Newcastle is often referred to as Newcastle upon the Tyne and situated
in Northern England. Newcastle's climate is moderate, making it an
ideal place to visit any time of year. Established in the Roman Era by
the Emperor Hadrian and formerly named Pons, Aelius, Newcastle upon the
Tyne is a place rich with historical sites to see and recreational
activities to engage in. Whether you are seeking fine dining or
interesting activities to enjoy, there is no finer place to visit that
Newcastle.


Places of interest:


The cultural enthusiast will find no end to the historical sites of
interest situated in Newcastle. One of England's most incredible
cities, tourists find themselves longing to return to Newcastle time
and time again. Not only is Newcastle full of exciting sites to see, it
is conveniently situated near many of England's popular cities and
attractions. Nearby cities surrounding Newcastle includes Bath,
Belfast, Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Liverpool, London, Nottingham,
Oxford, and York. Further, tourists will find Newcastle filled with
galleries, museums and historical sites to visit during their stay.

Do unto your campsite and fellow campers as you would have them do unto you. This should be the motto for good camping etiquette. If you are planning a camping trip, there are a number of written and unwritten rules that you should follow in order to be a good patron to the campground and a good neighbor to those camping or enjoying the outdoors around you.

When you camp at a campground or state park, you may be given a list of rules when you enter the camping area and you will probably find rules and regulations posted throughout the area. Read these rules carefully and abide by them to help make your stay pleasant and everyone else's pleasant as well.

First and foremost if the rules say “don't do” something, then don't do it. If they require a dog on a leash, no pets at all or they ask you to stay within certain areas, there are probably good reasons for these rules. They might ask you not to bring pets because they attract other animals to the campsites such as coyotes or bears. Walking in undesignated areas might put you face to face with a bear or cause you to disrupt the natural surroundings.

Do not contaminate the water sources by dumping things in them and do not pick flowers or damage the vegetation in any way. It has been there for hundreds of years and it would be nice for it to continue to be there for hundreds of years in the future.

Keep your campsite clean and don't litter. Not only does it look bad and can damage the environment, but it also can encourage unwanted animals such as bears or raccoons to enter the area. Along these lines, do not feed the wild animals because it will keep them coming back.

Be respectful of your neighbors. Do not be loud and do not play your music loudly. Many campgrounds will ask that noise be kept to a minimum after a certain time. If you don't respect this rule, they might ask you to leave. Keep your pets quiet as well. If your dog has a tendency to bark at everything, you might want to leave them at home.

Bring along an extra card table and chairs with you if you have a large group or are having visitors while you are camping. You should never take the picnic table from a neighboring site even if it is vacant. If someone arrives late at night or early in the morning they would probably like for it to be in their site where it belongs.

Make sure that if you make a fire it is completely put out before you leave. Clean your campsite for the next camper. Whatever came with you should leave with you. This includes all your trash which can be disposed of in the trashcans that are throughout the campground or at the entrance to the park.

Think of your campsite as your home away from home. You would want your back yard kept clean and you wouldn't want someone to walk through your yard, throwing down a candy wrapper and trampling your flowers. Think of your surroundings as your backyard at home.

Aside from rules posted, much of the camping etiquette comes from common sense. Treat your neighbors and your surroundings as you would want them to be treated or would want them to treat you. It helps make your stay and the stay for those camping around you to be relaxing and enjoyable, which is what you want when you head to the outdoors on a camping vacation.

If your 45, male and a "gentleman" and your looking for a great cruise bargain, you may want to start brushing up on your charm or visit the nearest "finishing school" before booking your next cruise.

Why? there's a volunteer dance program called Gentlemen Hosts. Operated by Lauretta Blake Of The Working Vacation, Inc.
Gentlemen Hosts recruits single men ages 45 and over to serve as dance/ social partners for single more mature ladies on cruise ships.
The Company counts Upscale Cruise Liners such as Cunard, Delta Queen Steamboat Company and Silversea as partner cruise liners.

As A "Gentleman Cruiser' you are expected to be good dancers and excellent conversationalist - think Fred Astaire and Sean Connery
(ok, those dancing shoes might be a tad too big to fill- so work on your brogue instead) Watch your table manners and sorry - no romantic involvement with the ladies.

Gentleman Cruiser's work about 50 hours a week - Dancing and socializing with guests for three to four hours a week, joining shipboard activities during the day, hosting tables at night and assisting with special events.

While a bit demanding - if your energetic, out-going and well - sociable - this my dashing man - could be your Job.

However it does have some start -up costs, these are:

$75 for a background check
$35 for a dance evaluation
$28 -$39 per day cruising

On the other hand some cruise lines give you a bar and laundry allowance and some will even allow the Gentlemen host to keep gratuities.

So if you Fancy yourself as the 007 of cruise liners - fix yourself a vodka martini ( shaken not stirred) and call 708-301-7535 or visit www.workingvacation.com

Do you ever get back from a fantastic holiday disappointed with the photos you've taken? Do your holiday snaps fail to live up to the exotic locations you visited? Blurred objects, wonky horizons, subjects with parts cropped off to mention but a few of the commonest ailments.

Well don't worry. With a little help and advice we can all take pictures of which we can be justifiably proud. It does not matter how basic your camera is, it is the person that takes great photos not the camera. Good results can be achieved even with the camera in a mobile phone if some basic guidelines are followed.

Over the last couple of years I have really come to appreciate the photos I take when I am on holiday. They bring back so many memories of the good times with friends and family and also of the places, people and things we have seen. If a photo captures the atmosphere of the time and location it can be wonderfully evocative of some of our happiest times.

This article is about taking better holiday photos but there are a couple of things I should mention first with regard to travelling with a camera. I'll be brief so here they are.

Make sure you have adequate insurance both for yourself and your belongings especially if you have an expensive camera, even basic digital models can be fairly pricey. Cameras are not affected by X-ray machines so you can pack them in hand luggage without worry. Make sure they are adequately protected if packed in your main luggage such as wrapping in towels and being placed in the centre of your suitcase, although if it is here it will not be available for photo opportunities en route.

Also, if you are travelling with a digital camera be sure to take enough memory for storing the photographs you take. A spare memory card and battery are a good idea in case of failures. Keep your camera clean and in good order by getting a carrying case and taking a camera lens cleaning cloth or glasses cleaning cloth.

So you have arrived and you have a clean, working camera with plenty of power and memory. Here are my top tips for great holiday photos.

Get sharp pictures by avoiding camera shake. Frame your shot, control your breathing � I find gently exhaling as I take the photo helps � and gently squeeze the shutter button. Steady yourself by leaning or resting on any available solid objects such as tables, doorways, walls, trees, fences etc. If there is nothing available stand with your legs a little way apart and tuck your elbows into your body as this will help stabilise the camera as much as possible.

Frame the shot carefully. How many times have we seen trees or lampposts growing out of people's heads or with the tops of their heads cut off by the frame of the photo? Keep objects, including fingers away from the lens of the camera. Easily done if you have a camera with a view finder where you do not see through the actual lens of the camera.

Compose your photos for added interest. Use strong lines within the composition to lead the viewers' eye into the shot, such as a path or road, to a focal point. Try to find something to add foreground interest in wider scenic views such as a plant or rock. Pretty much anything will do. Try turning the camera on its side for portrait format pictures or tilting it to add drama to your photos.

Look for details in objects and locations for example the texture in rippled sand or the patterns in local fabrics. Closer shots of objects that are common to the area you are staying in such as pottery, local plants or architectural details can often say as much about the place as panoramic postcard type shots.

Take photos in the early morning light or wait for the hour before sunset. The light at this time of day is much warmer than the harsh blue light of midday and will be much more atmospheric. Strong side lighting from a sun low in the sky can also produce interesting shadows within the landscape.

Get up early - I can hear you groaning � and capture the deserted beach or local town. Usually full of tourists, holiday destinations change character when empty of people and you may be able to take home some different photos of a well known location.

Move in closer to your subject. Really fill the frame with the object your are photographing. Many times I have ended up with a photo that does not capture the essence of the subject as it is lost within other distracting elements. So move in close and then closer still and photograph from different angles to get the most powerful image.

Take photographs of the local inhabitants but ask permission first. It can be quite daunting but it will avoid causing offence on personal, cultural or religious grounds. Most people are happy to oblige and interacting with the locals will enrich your holiday experience as well as provide you with great photos.

If the weather is bad get out and take photos. On many occasions I have seen beautiful atmospheric shots taken in dull rainy weather. It changes the character of a place and provides a different view than the normal one. If you are at the coast and the weather turns stormy you are in luck. Crashing waves and dramatic skies make for awesome images.

Use a frame within a frame. What I mean is use some thing like a doorway or a window to create a frame around your subject. Other ways could be to use trees or plants, the entrance to a street or opening to a square to frame a shot. These pictures can be very effective as they allow the viewer to place themselves within the photo and be part of the scene as you saw it.

Make a statement with your photos. Photograph the old and new next to each other. The modern and the traditional, decay and vitality, rubbish in a tidy place, poverty in the midst of riches. This sort of picture can tell the story behind the location and some are easily worth a thousand words.

Look for strong graphic images such as silhouettes at sunset or sunrise, dramatic combinations of colours, patterns of line and form. This sort of picture may end up being completely abstract but very interesting and satisfying all the same.

Use the sky. Very often the sky can be as interesting as the landscape beneath. Think sunsets and sunrises, storm clouds, fluffy summer clouds, single clouds, unusual shaped clouds etc. Balance the sky with what is in the landscape. It there is not much interest on the ground place the horizon low in the frame and include more sky and visa versa.

If you have a digital camera then you can check the shot that you have just taken and correct any mistakes as you go. Use this facility to edit your photos and delete those that you don't like to save storage space on the memory.

My final words are experiment, get involved, have fun. Don't be too stiff, relax and get into it. With digital cameras you can take as many photos as you want and just keep the good ones.

As Thailand enters the 21st Century, the tourism industry continues to play a major role in the economic and social development of the kingdom. Known round the world for the enduring hospitality of its people, its ancient culture and Thai cuisine, record numbers of tourists continue to take advantage of the myriad tourist destinations and products the kingdom has to offer. The number of foreign visitors to Thailand has steadily increased over the last 10 years, resulting in the "Golden Decade" of Thai tourism during the period 1987-1996.

Located in the heart of Southeast Asia, Thailand borders four countries (Myanmar, Laos PDR, Cambodia and Malaysia) as well as the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. The country is endowed with a wealth of natural resources which serve as a backdrop for both business and leisure travellers. The scenery is rich and varied, ranging from misty mountains and lush rain forests in the north, through the flat emerald rice fields of the central plains, to white sandy beaches and magnificent tropical islands along the eastern seaboard and throughout the south.

Tourism policy in Thailand supports not only promotion of its own destinations but of those of its neighbours in the Greater Mekong Subregion (Lao PDR, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Yunan Province of China and Thailand); BIMST-EC (Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sir Lanka and Thailand), and those of all Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries. The Tourism Authority of Thailand has worked closely with other government agencies and the private sector to develop a sophisticated array of tourism products for visitor. From sports to eco and agro tourism, shopping to health spas, culture, heritage and architecture: Thailand offers something for everyone.

Considering that San Diego is know for it's attractive scenery and friendly coastline, it's a true compliment to be known as one of the best beaches in the area. Mission Beach, located in the center of the two-mile area known as The Strand, draws large crowds all year round and its cement boardwalk never seems to be empty of toned runners and suntanned cyclers.

Shops, restaurants, and beach rental operations are abundant in the area, so you'll be all set up for whatever you feel like doing during your visit. Rent a board or simply grab a parasol and the latest mystery novel and settle in for some quality ocean time. There are separate areas for swimming and surfing and lifeguards are on duty most of the time, especially during the summer, so as far as safety goes, Mission Beach is a good place to be.

People-watching is also a fun activity here, as the boardwalk channels a constant flow of tourists and Californians alike right through the heart of the beach. Rollerblading, jogging, walking, and biking all keep people whizzing past, and planned or impromptu beach volleyball games ignite an atmosphere of fun and competition along the accompanying stretches of wide open sand.

Come evening, the party gets going at Belmont Beach, where revelers like to gather for music and socializing. There's also the Big Dipper, of course, Mission's famous roller coaster that dips and drops gleeful guests before a beautiful background of sea, sky, and San Diego. Beach fires are also a common sight; they must be made within designated containers and kept to a pretty tame size, but a few friends and a guitar can make for a wonderful evening made magic by a warm, orange glow.

A magnet for socializing and game-playing, Mission is also a great place to host special events. Weddings and large group activities are commonly held here, as are water sport competitions and musical performances. Free public parking makes things easier, and a ramp makes the beach wheelchair accessible as well. Everyone is welcomed to join in the entertainment here at Mission Beach.

This stretch of scenic coastline has a flavorful history beginning in the 1920's. This is when Tent City was created by a community-planning visionary named J.M. Asher. He made it possible to actually live on the beach, which unsurprisingly, many people found attractive. The original neighborhood survives today, serves as a site for several homes and vacation rentals, and represents a colorful part of San Diego's past.

The great part about vacationing with Mission Beach as your headquarters is that all the spectacular sights of the exciting city of San Diego are right at your doorstep. Choosing a vacation property in this location will leave you with many options as far as staying connected to all that is going on in this chock-full-of-diversions county. Simply venturing to adjacent Mission Bay will hook you up with golf courses, an aquatic center, boating, jet skiing, and other recreational opportunities.

You can't visit San Diego without stopping by Sea World to say hello to Shamu, and don't forget about the world-famous zoo, either. Beautiful weather, great shopping and dining, and plentiful cultural opportunities make this one of California's, and in fact America's, favorite tourist destinations. It's a beachgoer's paradise and so much more, so head down to this jewel of a town if you're looking for a relaxing break from your normal life.

Mission Beach Vacation Rentals are plentiful and appealing, so if you're seeking the true San Diego experience without the fuss of a hotel room then consider looking into reserving an oceanfront condo or villa. Many have been newly remodeled with the most modern of conveniences, yet maintain a sense of classic charm that attracted dwellers here in the first place. You'll want to stay for a while, so start making arrangements today for an escape to sunny San Diego's Mission Beach.

Visit HomeAway.com to tour all the vacation rental options located here and in many other attractive locations across the world.

Singapore is the perfect destination for tourists in search of relaxation, peace and quiet. The diamond-shaped island of Singapore is a magnificent oasis of exotic vegetation, consisting of various magnificent species of plants. The beauty of the botanical gardens and parks found in Singapore is renown all over the world. One of the most treasured Singapore places of interest is the National Orchid Garden, which contains an impressive collection of more than 3000 species of orchids, some of them growing only on this particular island.

Situated in the South-eastern region of the Asian continent, Singapore is a very important center for trade and tourism. Singapore communicates with Malaysia through a set of bridges, while the access to the neighboring islands of the Indonesian archipelago is facilitated by the presence of many ferry ports along the coastal regions, ferry boats providing a quick means of transportation by sea. A major center for tourism, Singapore also has an extended and modern network of airlines, facilitating the tourists' access on the island by air.

The vast, beautiful beaches found on the island are a major Singapore attraction. The tropical climate of Singapore renders the island the best destination for people in search for a memorable vacation by the beach. The beaches of Singapore are packed with tourists over the entire duration of the year, as the island preserves its warm climate regardless of season. The only impediment for tourists who enjoy sunbathing and swimming is tropical rain, which wets the surface of the island in brief, sporadic showers. However, the good news is that rain predominantly falls in autumn and winter, more rarely showering the island of Singapore during spring and summer.

A very famous Singapore place of interest is the world's first open zoo, which shelters a wide range of species characteristic to various geographical regions. The zoological garden found in Singapore is a major attraction for tourists, allowing visitors to closely observe the various animal species sheltered by the island. Unlike conventional zoos, the zoological garden in Singapore doesn't confine animals inside cages. The simulated environments and landscapes themselves separate the species that grow here, while additional man-made barriers prevent visitors from getting too near from the animals.

Apart from these common attractions, the ancient cultural and religious monuments found on the island are also major reasons for you to visit Singapore. Additional Singapore places of interest such as Thian Hock Keng temple, the shrines built in honour of Ma Po Cho - the Mother of the Heavenly Sages and the abundance of other religious monuments and statues render the island of Singapore an appropriate destination for tourists in search for mystical places. Whether you decide to visit Singapore for its sunny beaches, the splendour of its gardens or the intriguing ancient Oriental worship sites found on the island, a vacation in this region of the world is definitely a unique and unforgettable experience!

Streetdirectory.com provides comprehensive travel information about Singapore & Asia. Singapore Guide , Accommodation, Singapore Travel Reviews, Singapore Maps, Asia Hotels, Hotel reservations & Singapore Real Estate.

Kangaroo Island has been described as one of earth's last unspoilt island refuges, and with very good reason. This idyllic island located off the coast of South Australian is an idyllic tour destination for those seeking sun, surf, and everything that goes with them, including swimming, fishing, sailing and scuba-diving. Islands are almost always special places ... isolation, solitude, the ocean ... just think of places like the West Indies, Hawaii, the Maldives, all of which have unique characteristics and special natural environments that have evolved through thousands of years of isolation. Australia 's Kangaroo Island is no exception.

Kangaroo Island is about seven times the size of Singapore and around 155 kilometres in length, with the town of Kingscote being the island's capital and main settlement. Wildlife is abundant on the island, where koalas laze in the gum trees and seals laze on the beach. In addition, kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, platypi and goannas all thrive on the island.

A wide range of tours are available on Kangaroo Island, enabling you to relax while someone else does the driving. In addition, guides can provide a great deal of information about Kangaroo Island on the way. Both coach tours and four-wheel drive tours are available, with most tours collecting passengers from their accommodation, the airport or the ferry terminal. Bike riding and hiking are also possible for those with the energy, but beware that Kangaroo Island is large and the necessary level of fitness is required for these options.

Large luxury vehicle and passenger ferries operate between Cape Jervis on the South Australian coast and Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island (travelling time 45 minutes). There are four departures daily, with extra services at peak times. Bus connections are available to/from Adelaide to Cape Jervis, and to/from Penneshaw to American River and Kingscote on the island. Regional Express operates a 30-minute air service from Adelaide to Kingscote Airport, located 13km from Kingscote.

Because of its relative isolation, Kangaroo Island has experienced much less impact from European settlement than than the South Australian mainland. Half the bushland on Kangaroo Island remains untouched since the time of British navigator Matthew Flinders named the island in 1802, and more than a third of the Island has National Park or Conservation Park status. This pristine bushland supports a rich wildlife population of wildlife and makes Kangaroo Island on of the best places in Australia to see wildlife in its natural environment.

Kangaroo Island was separated from mainland Australia about 10,000 years ago. In that time, some species have evolved differently from their mainland counterparts. This is evident for example in the Kangaroo Island Kangaroo (a subspecies of the Western Grey Kangaroo common in south-eastern Australia) which is today smaller, darker and has longer fur than its mainland counterpart. The now endangered Glossy Black Cockatoo is also a unique Kangaroo Island sub-species, as is the small marsupial carnivore the Sooty Dunnart.

Similarly, King Island's plants have evolved in isolation to the point where at least 45 species are endemic (found only on Kangaroo Island) including several eucalypts. The total absence of feral creatures such as foxes and rabbits helps ensures the integrity Kangaroo Island's bushland ecosystems.

In recognition of Kangaroo Island's unique plant and wildlife species (some of which are either threatened or unique to the island), National and Conservation parks were declared across the island very early in the history of its European settlement. Kangaroo Island's National Parks provide access to spectacular coastline scenery, unique geological formations, fascinating history and abundant wildlife. There are four major parks: Flinders Chase National Park (walking trails and spectacular rock formations), Kelly Hill Conservation Park (limestone caves and hiking), Seal Bay Conservation Park (Australia's largest accessible colony of sea lions) and Cape Willoughby Conservation Park (first lighthouse in South Australia).

Known as an island with a dramatic history, a passionate spirit, and an ever-buoyant partying attitude, Jamaica is an exciting and eye-opening string of sights, sounds and flavors that stretches from Kingston to Montego Bay. Natural beauty plus engaging activities equals a spectacular vacation, so head this way for a freeing, fabulous time.

Jamaica is alive with color and energy throughout, so anywhere your vacation starts will set you off on the right track. For example, the bustling capital city of Kingston will show the gritty, realistic features of this island's identity. For travelers in search of authenticity, this is the place to go. A center for commerce and business, parts of Kingston are admittedly overcrowded and unattractive, but if you stick with it a while, or even better, if you visit during one of the many yearly festivals, you'll find yourself steeped in a local climate that is fascinating, lively, and oh-so-different than anything you've ever experienced before.

More typical tourist spots won't disappoint as far as offering up the brochure-style pictures and movie-worthy sights. Blue Lagoon is one example, as it's likely that the stunning aqua depths of this pride of Jamaica have caught your eye before. Jacques Cousteau filmed here, as have a few Hollywood directors. The lagoon, or "Blue Hole" as locals call it, is open to the public.

Another natural wonder is known as Cockpit Country, and consists of an imposing plateau formed from limestone. It is located in the central western part of the country, and the rocky, unusual terrain makes traveling above it via helicopter the best way to safely see all the ravines and ragged edges. Thrill-seekers can take a spelunking trip if they so desire, and bird-watchers and wildlife-lovers will find themselves in a veritable wonderland.

To experience a resort town that hasn't really lost touch with the ebb and flow of real life, consider a visit to Negril. Here, you'll be able to take advantage of the beach, the breeze, and the beverages to your heart's content, but you won't be leaving the genuine article behind. Coral reefs and sunsets that stop everyone in their tracks will punctuate your stay in Negril, and laid-back locals will show you how life was meant to be lived. Take in a reggae concert while you're here, and don't be afraid to forget all about the rigid rules of your usual routine.

The port city of Montego Bay is brimming with life, and makes another excellent place to take in the rockin' beat of this raw, robust country. MoBay is a magnet for tourists, as it is dotted with golf courses, resorts, museums, and happening beaches. Plenty of locals make it a hodgepodge of personalities and activities, so dive in for what is sure to be a stimulating experience.

If all of this, along with the heavy influences of rum, reggae, and Rastafarians, has your feet itching to feel the sands of Jamaica beneath their bare soles, then start planning a trip now. The experience will be shaped by where you stay, so as you go about making reservations keep a clear vision of your desired getaway in mind. If partying like a college student on spring break is your goal, a hotel will suit you just fine, but for more adult tastes, consider a vacation rental.

Imagine a beach side villa, decorated with seashells and furnishings made from native woods, that is located right on Negril beach. French doors lead to a deck that will give you front row seats to the sunset, and a kitchen will allow you to prepare cocktails and hors d'oeuvres to create the ultimate experience. Air conditioning and ceiling fans will keep you cool at night, but if the weather permits consider leaving the windows open in order to fall asleep to the sound of the crashing waves.

Take a cheap taxi to explore the island, or simply amble down the beach towards the open-air markets to pick up some unique local goods. Your days will be filled with sweet, easy beats set to the tune of Jamaica's favorite songs, so stay in the groove by treating yourself to a Jamaica Vacation Rental that will bring you no worries.

Visit HomeAway.com to explore vacation rental offerings located here and all over the world.
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You have just arrived in the Renaissance capital of the art world with a couple of days to spare, so where do you go and what highlights can you see in such a short time? This is the guide for you to get the maximum out of a short stay in Florence.

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Now is probably a good time to familiarise yourself with the central city, if it's late summer it will be beginning to cool down and hopefully the crush of the tourist crowds will be starting to diminish. The centre of Florence is easy to walk around as the streets are narrow and most are closed to traffic.

Starting off around the main station there is the Piazza Santa Maria Novella with the church that gives the train station its name. Opposite the church there is the Piazza Nazionale and a road which leads down to the Piazza del Mercato Centrale. Here there are a few market stalls selling leather goods, souvenirs and other items. The 2 famous buildings to see here are the Cappelle Medici and the San Lorenzo e Biblioteca Laurenziana.

15:00
You will see the Duomo before you reach the piazza it resides in as you walk down Via Borgo San Lorenzo. The squat building in front of the cathedral is the Baptistery, built on the foundations of a Roman temple. The golden doors facing the cathedral are replicas of an original set made by Lorenzo Ghiberti and regarded by Michelangelo as the "doors to paradise". But the sight most visitors are bowled over by is Brunelleschi's dome, the cap on the already impressive Chiesa Santa Maria del Fiori. Standing guard beside it is the campanile, or bell tower built by Giotto.

The view from the top of the Duomo is incredible on a clear day and well worth the trek to the top. Entry to the church itself is free but there is a charge to make the climb. You can also climb the bell tower but run the risk of the bells going off at some point and there is no lift if you need assistance to get back down.

16:00
Many of the original works that were used to decorate the exteriors and interiors of the baptistery, church and campanile are house inside the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, behind the cathedral, the museum rooms that catalogue the history of the buildings. There are many pieces by Michelangelo, including his Pieta that he partially destroyed, which was finished later by a student. The original baptistery doors are housed here along with Duomo plans from Brunelleschi, statues and bas relief's by Donatello and others.

17:00
Walking down Via Roma you will reach Piazza della Repubblica, the edges are taken up with expensive hotels and even more expensive cafes. There are some stalls selling various touristy type things, including more belts, wallets and handbags. Keep walking down Via Calimara until you reach the loggia that houses more market stalls. Here you can test your skills at spotting a fake leather item although you don't want to make this too obvious. Better still you can drop a coin from the mouth of 'il Porcolino', the bronze statue of a boar, and make a wish.

17:30
Looking straight ahead you will see what resembles a crowded street rising up at the end of Via Porta Santa Maria. This is actually a bridge, the Ponte Vecchio, the 'Old Bridge', which was the only one spared by the Nazis in WWII. The original shops were butchers, dropping their leftovers into the Arno below. The stench got up the Medici's noses in the 16thC so much that Grand Duke Ferdinando I ordered them to move out and the more aesthetically pleasing goldsmiths to move in. This is also one of 3 bridges in the world to house shops.

18:00
Make your way back to the northern end of the bridge where there is a covered colonnade heading left alongside the river. This was built as a secret passageway for the Medici's as they walked above the populace between the Uffizi and the Pitti Palace. At the far end of the walkway you can look back to see the rear of the shops as they overhang the river below.

Behind you is also the entrance to the Piazza Degli Uffizi, a three sided piazza filled with statues and busts of famous artists from over the centuries, and of course home to the world famous Uffizi Gallery. The collection inside is second only to that of the one held at the Vatican in terms of artistic significance. Giotto, Fra Angelico, Lippi, Botticelli, Da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo� the list goes on. The gallery is closed on Mondays and needs at least half a day to get around, as well as to be booked in advance if you wish to view it in summer. The piazza is commonly filled during the summer with outdoor exhibitions, street artists and performers, mainly to entertain the long meandering line of tourists queuing up to get in.

Carry on through the narrow piazza away from the river until you reach Piazza Signoria. This wide open space is most recognisable by the statue of David, a copy put there in 1873 as the original had to moved inside the Accademia to protect it from the elements. Underneath the loggia is a collection of other famous statues including The Rape of the Sabines, Hercules and the Centaur Nessus, by Giambologna and Cellini's bronze statue of Perseus.

The main space is overlooked by the rather imposing statue of 'Il Nettuno', the watery figure of Neptune standing at the opposite end of Palazzo Vecchio. Close by is the mounted figure of Cosimo I Medici and the bronze plaque that marks the spot where the priest Savonarola was hanged and burned for heresy in 1498. For the super sleuths there is a another sculpture to look out for. On the wall of the Palazzo Vecchio is the carved outline of a mans face. One legend tells that Michelangelo, in a fit of pique, was proving to Donatello he was able to sculpt great works of art, even with his hands behind his back.

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Inside Palazzo Vecchio the entrance shows ornate ceilings and wall decoration for this building was once the seat of Florentine government during the 13th and 14th Centuries. For a fee you can view the opulent apartments upstairs that were occupied by Medicis and other notables as well as reach the battlements for another view out over the city.

The remainder of the evening can be best spent wandering the narrow streets and enjoying a meal from one of the many restaurants and trattorias. Later on there is the night life as many bars and clubs open up after 10pm and carry on until very early in the morning.

08:00
Florence is a tourist magnet all year round so an early start is essential if you don't wish to spend countless hours queuing. A surefire way to avoid this is to part with a little extra cash in the busy summer months and pre book your tickets online or over the phone. You then pick them up at a designated time from the ticket office with your booking number. This way you can easily get to see the Uffizi and possibly another museum in the same day. To do this simply log onto www.firenzemusei.it or www.weekendafirenze.com or book through your hotel.

The Uffizi opens at 8.15am, closing at 7pm, with the artworks divided between a series of rooms all featuring a certain artistic style or period. The gallery is not restricted to just greats of the Italian renaissance but the collection also includes works by German and Flemish artists. To appreciate much of the work you would need to devote at least several hours to get round.

15:00
Either as an afternoon escape or a morning alternative there is also the Galleria Dell'Accademia, most famous for its prize possession, Michelangelo's David, the original sculpture that stood in Piazza della Signoria. The 5m tall statue was carved from a single slab of marble which some tales relate as having a fault line running through it. Michelangelo was said to have found it at abandoned at the rear of the artisan school and decided he would use it to create a symbol of Florentine spirit.

The Accademia also has other well known statues, paintings and carvings by many artists on display, well worth an hour or two looking around.

For a plesant way to round off the day there is a walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo from the southern river bank, where you will find yet another copy of Michelangelo's David, a bronze version overlooking the city. A great place to watch the city change colour at sunset and sometimes there are public events held in the piazza during the summer.

17:00
If there is still enough energy left to view one more church Chiesa di San Miniato al Monte is worth the extra effort. Situated in the parklands up behind Piazzale Michelangelo the exterior is one of the best examples of Tuscan Romanesque architecture while the interior is home to some extraordinary 13-15th C frescoes.

08:00
Depending on your time table you may have time for another set of museums or just a gentle stroll in the park. Head up to the Pitti Palace, another Brunelleschi creation for a wealthy banker that was eventually taken up by the Medici family. Inside are a series of museum rooms all dedicated to various items such silver, porcelain and renaissance clothing as well as more modern artworks from the 18th and 20th Centuries.

11:00
When the art intake has finally reached its limit there is respite in the shape of the Boboli gardens to the rear of the palace. Designed in the mid 16th C it contains typical grottoes and garden follies of the renaissance aristocracy. A chance to leave the narrow streets and tourist crowds for a while.

Your time in Florence is at an end but you may still have a chance to do a bit of that last minute shopping before bidding farewell to all the masters.
Katy Hyslop has spent the past 6 years travelling, tour guiding and generally
hanging around the European tourism industry. She is now based in Italy and
in charge of keeping the crew under control at Plus. If you want to know more
on what to see or where to stay in Florence click here.