Cruise travel tips and stories. Vacations ideas, cruises spa and resorts

Home | Bookmark us




>>'Cruise' related Travel Topics


Nov24

King Edward Point

Published by iv in Antarctica, Cruise, Fishing, Georgia

prof
South Georgia, the applied fisheries research station at King Edward Point. It is 170km long and varies in width from 2km to 40km. King Edward Point lies at the entrance to King Edward Cove. The purpose built facilities include the accommodation building, Everson House and the James Cook Laboratory.


dai
Surrounded by cold waters originating in Antarctica, South Georgia has a harsher climate. More than half of the island is covered by permanent ice. The Territory is of great importance for sub-Antarctic flora and fauna. Winter population of around 14 swells to twice that in summer. From October to March elephant seals, penguins and fur seals are on the beach.

dfff

Access is by boat or ship based helicopter. There are no medical facilities for visitors. All travel has inherent risks.


Tags:

Social: Bookmark | Permalink | Comments
Nov16

Bulgarian Real Estate

Published by iv in Camping, Cruise, Europe, Fishing, Relaxing, Swimming, Walking

prav

Roussalka is a holiday compound, situated in Taukliman Bay (Birds Bay), 18 km east of Balchik). This is a typical birds colony in a pretty rocky area near the sea. It is 14 km east of the town of Kavarna, 59 km north-east of Varna, 529 km north-east of Sofia.
vtori

The stretch of coastline from Kaliakra  to Kamen Bryag, which includesRoussalka, also includes the Yailata reserve. This elongated bluff about a kilometer long by 200 meters wide has sheer cliff faces pockmarked with over 100 caves – some natural, others man-made. Also carved into the rock is a necropolis of 28 tombs, as well as a church with several chambers. It is thought that Yailata was a sanctuary for ancient Greeks who considered it a holy mountain.
The resort of Roussalka is a pretty new one as it was established in 1968 in the famous Taukliman   (Birds’ Bay in Turkish) – the latter declared a nature reserve. The resort is a real birds’ paradise, even if the number of its bird species has declined significantly after the resort started functioning.Several small bays offer different beach conditions – sand, pebbles, bigger stones and rocks. The underwater world is interesting due to the peculiar relief of the rocks. Divers can find good opportunities for practising. There is a small firth with curative mud, yachting facilities, and an open-air theatre.


Tags:

Social: Bookmark | Permalink | Comments
Sep16

MSC Poesia Cruise – a unique journey, that will leave you feeling enthused

Published by Asya in Chillin, Cruise, Relaxing, Restaurants, Ships

poesia
One of the newest additions to the fleet of MSC Cruises is Poesia – the large ship – 92,400 tons vessel, 964 feet long, 105 feet wide and 164 feet tall. It has 1,275 cabins, of which 80% are outside cabins with balconies, able to carry a maximum of 3,013 passengers and 1,000 crew members. A total of more than 236,000 sq. f is dedicated to the public areas. The Poesia was completed in March 2008 at the Aker St Nazaire yard in France. The magnificent MSC Poesia cruise ship introduces a new dimension of enjoyment to a holiday on a magnificent and innovative ship in its inaugural 2008 season.

luxury poesia
On board the elegant new ship you will discover luxury cruising at its best–a spectacular waterfall with bridges in the foyer, a zen garden in the sushi bar and a serene 13,000 square foot spa. From a private balcony overlooking the ocean and a star filled sky accompanied by the sounds of a Verdi aria, mingling with the samba rhythms from the poolside party … an abundance of emotions will flow.

poesi acruise

Activities on MSC Poesia – games rooms, a casino, entertainment shows, games in the swimming pool, karaoke nights and piano bar. There are also 12 bars, two of which – Mohito Bar and Pirana Bar – are outdoors, providing perfect places to taste delicious Mediterranean dishes prepared by the ship’s accomplished chefs. The main attraction are the theater pieces -their shows receive standing ovations nightly – from the spectacular shows that are among the best at sea to the vibrant sounds of the live bands and singers to the rip roaring comedy performances.
cruise
On board ships like MSC Orchestra and MSC Musica, twins to MSC Poesia, 5,700 cups of coffee and 1,000 eggs are prepared daily and 1,000 champagne bottles are popped each week, 14,000 dishes are served weekly, with 182 different choices per day and 1,274 choices per week!


Tags:

Social: Bookmark | Permalink | Comments
Mar04

Alaska Glacier Cruises – magical experience

Published by Asya in Cruise, North America, Romantic, Ships, Travel Stories, United States of America

glacier
Alaska Glacier cruises are one way itineraries that sail from North to South or South to North. These itineraries allow you to spend more days in Alaska ports or National Glacier Parks at Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay as there are fewer days at sea compared to a round-trip cruise. If you only have a week and want maximum glacier viewing and time on land, this is your best choice for an Alaska Cruise Vacation. The Alaska Cruise season begins in late April and continues through September. Whether you cruise when the Inside Passage is blanketed with spring wildflowers or ablaze with fall foliage you’ll be awed at Alaska’s natural wonders. Spring whale migrations, fall bald eagle gatherings, winter trumpeter swans – exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities and substantial savings can be found during spring and fall.
alaska 2

You’ve seen pictures of towers of glacial ice crashing into the ocean. You’ll be glad to know that Alaska glacier cruises–the best way to get up close and personal with these icy behemoths–are among the most affordable and easiest to arrange day tours from Anchorage. In south central Alaska, there are two primary destinations to choose from – Kenai Fjords National Park and Prince William Sound. Even large-ship cruisers should hop aboard one of these boats to really feel the rumble of calving tidewater glaciers or hear the thrilling, unearthly song of whales. Kenai Fjords National Park abounds with marine sea life and is a must for those interested in Alaska day cruises that offer Alaska glacier cruises, whale watching, Alaska bird watching, and wildlife viewing. Make Seward Alaska and Kenai Fjords National Park part of your Alaska adventure. Travel by coach with our guide to Whittier who provides a natural history tour and points out sights along the scenic Seward Highway. Depart on the Wilderness Explorer Glacier Cruise and view wildlife, glaciers and the lush coastline of Prince William Sound. We are the only day cruise operator who offers an exclusive visit of the Wally Norenberg Fish Hatchery as we cruise towards Esther Passage on our way to Surprise Glacier. Return to Anchorage by coach. Lunch included.
cruise

The glacier rich waters of coastal Alaska are as pristine as they were a thousand years ago. And an Alaska cruise is not just an unforgettable way to experience this unchanged call of the wild, but also the only way to see that quintessential Alaskan coastal scenery you’ve dreamed of. Even large-ship cruisers should hop aboard one of these boats to really feel the rumble of calving tidewater glaciers or hear the thrilling, unearthly song of whales.Taking an Alaska glacier tour is a magical experience. Over the past 10,000 years, glaciers have sculpted the face of Alaska like no other natural force, moving mountains and carving valleys. And cruising is the best way to get up close and personal with these icy behemoths.
alaska
You’ll also get close to Alaska’s unique animals. Passing through gorgeous inlets and fjords, you’ll look for bears, mountain goats, bald eagles, and puffins. Then sail into waters jumping with seals, porpoises, and sea lions. With the help of underwater microphones, you can even listen to whales converse in their ancient languageCruise along the rocky, wild shorelines rich with bird life, graceful waterfalls and wildlife like sea lions, bears and mountain goats. Whatever you do, don’t miss the boat on your Alaska vacation!


Tags:

Social: Bookmark | Permalink | Comments
Feb27

Cruise through three spectacular river gorges in the heart of China

Published by Asya in Asia, China, Cruise, Ships

cruise

Yangtze River, together with the Yellow River, is the birthplace of Chinese civilization. Over 6,000 km long, the mighty Yangtze is the longest river in China and the third longest in the world. Along the upper reaches of the river lies the spectacular Three Gorges. To sail through the famous Three Gorges of the Yangtze is to feel the power, majesty and timelessness of China’s greatest -and the world’s third longest river. Imagine the sight as sheer cliffs of rock close in around you, drawing you deeply into a scene of almost unspeakable beauty. Fisherman brave the rushing waters to net their livelihood. Birds dart between clouds, eyeing their prey far below. As the ship turns at a seemingly dead end, a new world of wonders suddenly unfolds before you …
Yangtze River cruise

For a three gorges cruise, there are different plans to sail between different docks. you may go between Chongqing to Wuhan, or between Chongqing to Yichang, or between Chongqing to Shashi. Depart Chongqing for an exciting downstream journey exploring the unique Three Gorges on the world’s third longest river. The rapids and steep mountains isolate this stunning world from the outside. Your first port of call will be Fengdu, the legendary “ Ghost City ” – the Ming Hill, submerged as the Three Gorges dam completed. It is a land of “hell” – scaring statues describing the afterlife were sculpted to terrify the illiterate. With its great distances, countless museums and long coach rides, China can be tiring for even the most enthusiastic tourist. That’s just one of the reasons why a Yangtze River cruise works so well within a standard tour of China, as it provides time for perspective and relaxation in the middle of a challenging excursion. Combine that with the continuing interest in the river generated by the construction of the Yangtze River Dam, and it’s easy to see why many tour operators continue to make such cruises a centerpiece of their brochures–despite a bad patch last year, when summer flooding disrupted many sailings.
cruise 2

The standard cruise, covering approximately 850 miles from Wuhan to Chongqing, typically lasts between three and six days, depending on whether the vessel is heading up or downstream. Passengers take in numerous temples, some thousands of years old; the essential Chinese beauty of mountain, mist and river; and village life along the river. From the treeless Mountain Tanggula of Upper Qinghai, the Yangtze River winds 3,900 miles through the country from west to east. The journey from Chongqing to Wuhan includes the “Three Gorges” and is characterized by its picturesque natural scenery. The various ports of call along the way offer great opportunities to experience our ancient cultural heritage. Come with us and discover this special part of China, with its great humanity, beauty and time-honored history.
three gorges
The best way to discover China – a land that is splendidly foreign and decidedly unforgettable – is by our elaborately designed cruise plans. Your cruise, hotel, sightseeing tours and meals are all included in one price. China Travel Service offers special arrangements for Classic Yangtze Packages, Splendid Yangtze Cruises and Small Group China Tours to travel anywhere in China, including Beijing, Xian, Yangtze River, Shanghai, and Tibet.

Yangtze_river_china


Tags:

Social: Bookmark | Permalink | Comments
Jan15

Take a luxury cruise on the Costa Mediterranea

Published by toun in Chillin, Cruise, Eating, Fitness&Gym, Restaurants, Ships, Sightseeings

costa_cruise_mediterranea_ship.jpg

The Costa Mediterranea has a unique personality inspired by Italy’s 17th and 18th century palazzi and castles, while the decks are dedicated to mythology in the Mediterranean Sea–a crossroads of cultures and civilizations. The spectacular Maschera d’Argento Atrium spans 10 decks high and features an incredible sculpture of dancers suspended mid-air. This unique Costa fleet boat is reminiscent of an aristocratic Sicilian palace, the two-level Degli Argentieri Restaurant is adorned with exquisite objects d’art and frescos. The interior spaces on board this 86,000 ton Costa fleet ship are truly an expression of an inimitable, unique style.

The Mediterranea’s 12 spacious and panoramic passenger decks offer an impressive array of facilities including 5 restaurants, 4 bars, 3 pools (one with a retractable roof), a theater extending over three decks, a casino, disco, ballroom, conference center, library, and internet cafe. Children and youngsters can enjoy ample sources of entertainment at the Squok Children’s Room and Arcade.

Costa Mediterranea is a near-sister to Carnival Cruise Line’s “Spirit-class” of ships – a sleek, fast, amenity-filled group of highly successful vessels. But any similarity begins – and ends – with their deck plans. Costa’s interior design teams have made every effort to bring a distinctive, crisp and sophisticated look and feel to the Costa Mediterranea. To those achievements, add in the tireless efforts of a genuine, engaging, willing shipboard crew and staff and Costa’s “Cruising Italian Style” becomes reality.

costa_cruise_mediterranea_suite.jpgOf the ship’s 1,057 cabins, 678 have balconies. Both standard outside and balcony cabins (210 square feet) feature dressing tables; efficient hair dryers; TVs; and beds convertible from queen to two twins. Many cabins, including 71 of the 212 inside cabins (160 square feet) have a third and fourth bed that pull down from the ceiling. Closet and drawer space is ample for a seven-day cruise. There are outlets for American electrical plugs, though they aren’t always clearly marked. All cabins have a minibar and easy-to-use safe. Bathrooms are compact with showers only. Shampoo (no conditioner) and lotion are provided. Eight accessible rooms span several categories.

The ship’s 58 suites are especially attractive and come in three categories, ranging in size from 352 to 650 square feet (including balcony). All suites have good-sized, granite-tiled bathrooms with Jacuzzi tubs and double sinks. The balconies have teak furnishings, including lounge chairs. Passengers in these quarters get a variety of special services: VIP check-in and early disembarkation; butler service; sparkling wine; full-course in-suite dining; complimentary meal at Club Medusa; plus such added amenities as terry robes, slippers, and a daily fruit basket.

costa_cruise_mediterranea_degli_argentieri.jpgDining
The Restaurant degli Argentieri, based on a splendid 18th-century palazzo, is split into two levels and is the ship’s main dining venue. The restaurant works on an assigned, two-seating basis and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Seatings for dinner are geared to European dining customs, and so the late seating is quite late (6:15 PM first seating and 8:45 PM for second—9 PM on formal nights). Dinner menus play up the Italian theme, with a different region of Italy highlighted each night. Vegetarian options are always available and listed on the main menu, while Costa’s “Salute e Benessere” (”health and well being”) menus offer low-fat, low-carbohydrate options. The wine list is with a predominance of Italian wines.

costa_cruise_mediterranea_lounge.jpgDuring regular mealtimes, the sprawling Perla del Lago Restaurant serves uninspired buffet fare. The numerous stations offer different dishes, so it pays to explore. (The pizzeria, for example, is a separate station near the rear of the buffet area.) And while soft ice cream machines are scattered throughout, different ones are switched on at different times. During off-hours, choices are slim, although the ship offers round-the-clock food service. The 24-hour room service menu lists a few soups, salads, sandwiches, and desserts. Only suite passengers may order off the full restaurant menus for complete in-suite dining, including hot dishes for breakfast. All passengers may order espresso or cappuccino with their Continental breakfast, however, a nice touch.

costa_cruise_mediterranea_teatro_osiris.jpgEntertainment
At the heart of the ship, the Atrium – Marchera d’Argento Hall – stretches over ten decks. The main lounge, Teatro Osiris, is three decks high and seats 1,170 guests. A new design feature for this series of ships is the location of the show lounge/night club, here the Salone Giardino Isolabella, underneath the main lounge. The main restaurant, Ristorante Degli Argentieri, is two decks high and seats altogether some 1,300 guests.

Fitness & Recreation
costa_cruise_mediterranea_gym.jpgCosta Mediterranea’s fitness facility and spa are combined on two decks. The Olympia Gym, tiered so that everyone gets a sea view, has an impressive array of workout machines that allow passengers to set them manually or use a “key card” that prompts the computer to guide them through their workout . Classes are available, although some, such as yoga, Pilates, and kickboxing h. Other fun features include a forward-view whirlpool and separate men’s and women’s steam rooms, saunas, and shower cabinets with multiple heads.There is a two-level health and fitness centre, the Ischia Spa, four swimming pools, one featuring a retractable dome, five whirlpools, a large casino and more than ten themed bars, lounges and public areas for activities and entertainment. In addition, there is a shopping area, a wedding chapel and large facilities for children and youngsters. There is also a library, a conference centre and a cascading water slide.

The two central pools on Deck 9 each have a whirlpool, usually busy, and one has a retractable roof so it can be used in all kinds of weather. A smaller pool, located aft away from the crowds, has both a whirlpool and a bar. A neat waterslide is on top of Deck 11 but has limited hours. On the top deck above the gym is a small jogging track and netted basketball/volleyball area.


Tags:

Social: Bookmark | Permalink | Comments
Dec18

Cruising is a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Published by vanhal in ACTIVITIES, Australia, Australia, CONTINENTS, COUNTRIES, Chillin, Cruise, Eating, Fishing, Hotels, Kayaking, Kite, Resorts, Sailing, Scuba Diving, Ships, Snorkeling, Surfing, Swimming, TOPICS, Travel Tips

spirit_of_the_pacific_big.jpgSpirit of the Pacific is a 35 metre square-rigged topsail schooner.index_map.gif The crew will explain the basics of sailing a tall ship and invite you to lend a hand with the sails. Though nights are spent ashore in two-person bures at Liku Bay on Waya Island, limited cabin and dormitory style sailors berth accommodation is available on board at no extra charge. Fiji is rich in culture, tradition, and natural beauty from psychedelic fish and marine creatures to tree-clad mountains. The pace is slow, the sea warm and crystal clear. What better place to be?
Cruise the Yasawa Islands by tall ship on a 2 or 3 night Sailing Safari and experience a unique Fiji adventure. Spirit of the Pacific is a 108ft topsail schooner which sets sail every Monday and Thursday from Denarau Marina, Nadi for the Yasawa islands. Experience a new adventure every day– swim with manta rays, snorkel, trek overland, visit islands and traditional villages, go fishing, laze on deck or gain a few tips on tall ship sailing. Each evening return to the Barefoot Lodge where sunset swims, volleyball, night fishing tours, star gazing, Fijian ‘lovobure_big.jpg‘ feasts and nightly entertainment are all part of the fun. All meals, activities and accommodation are included in the price.
accommodation
Whilst the facilities are basic at Barefoot Island Resort on Drawaqa Island, the experience is five star – nights lit by lanterns and a million stars, lazy hours spent alternating between the hammock and lagoon; and adventure packed days sailing the Yasawa Islands by tall ship. The accommodation is traditional and rustic – there is no electricity in the bures, the roof isdeck_big.jpg thatched, and the showers and toilets are communal (cool fresh water). Each bure has two single beds which can be pushed together if you prefer (linen supplied).
The Barefoot Island Resort caters for a maximum of 40 persons in twenty traditional village bures. Individual 2-person bures mean you only share with 1 other, or you can book you own private bure at additional cost. A large meeting bure, communal toilets & showers (cool fresh water) and tropical gardens are located in the resort.


Tags:

Social: Bookmark | Permalink | Comments
Dec12

Take one of Earth’s most stunningly beautiful cruises at Li River

Published by nerdeff in ACTIVITIES, Asia, CONTINENTS, COUNTRIES, China, Cruise, Monuments, Sailing, Ships, Sightseeings, TOPICS, Travel Stories, Travel Tips

Take one of Earth's most stunningly beautiful cruises at Li River
If you are fan of river boat trips the Li River cruise is the best option for you. It is cosidered as one of Earth’s most stunningly beautiful journeys. The Li River aka Lijiang River has very smooth water which mirrors and creates a fairytale landscape of mountain and hill peaks reaching for the sky.

The Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is the centerpiece of any trip to northeastern Guangxi Province. Gorgeous Karst peaks give you surprises at each bend of the limpid river under the blue sky. You will also see Water buffalo patrol the fields, peasants reap rice paddies, school kids and fisherman float by on bamboo rafts.

Take one of Earth's most stunningly beautiful cruises at Li River
The trip starts from the dock south of Liberation Bridge in Guilin downtown area. Otherwise some agencies will transport tourist to by a one-hour bus ride to catch the cruise. The river trip is over eighty kilometers (52 miles) long and is estimated to take seven to eight hours. The eye-feasting landscape and country scenery will never disappoint you. As we found there is a Chinese tradition to divide the long trip into sections and give each peak an imaginative name. When you remember these names and listen to tour guide’s legendary stories behind, you will probably feel delightful experience when you are appreciating the landscapes. Most are mystical fairy and love stories. The Li River has been divided into 11 sections which are described below:

Elephant Trunk Hill
Situated majestically on the western bank of Li River, the hill resembles an elephant sucking water from the river with its long trunk. It is supposed to be the landmark of Guilin landscape, which you can find on travel brochures or books. The most impressive is said to be the water reflection of a moon-like cave when the moonlight sprinkles over the river, hence the name ‘Moon over the Water’.

Pagoda Hill
A few minutes down from the Elephant Hill on the west bank is a small hill topped with a pagoda. The hexagonal pagoda is called Longevity Buddha Pagoda (Shoufo Ta) dating from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). It is said the second floor has stone Buddha figurines on display and the hill is compassed in Chuanshan Park. In autumn, the hill illuminated with red maples is very charming.

Take one of Earth's most stunningly beautiful cruises at Li River Daxu Town
Guilin Li River Perching on the northern bank of Li River, the ancient town keeps in its antique style from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). A flagging street, lined with old residences, shops and stalls, runs two kilometers along the river bank through the town. Some well-preserved residences hidden behind the street door may give you surprises you when you occasionally explore further into a shop. These are quarters for businessmen in the past times. Have a try on various dumping snacks on the stalls or peddle cars along the street. Some will surprise you with both its taste and cheap price. People in the town are very kind to tourists. Further to south, there is a single-arched bridge in the town named Longevity Bridge.

The town is really a sight off-the-beaten track. Opposite the town on the other side of the river, a millstone-like rock with the running waters creates the scene of Grinding Grain.

Crown Cave (Guanyan)
A crown-like crag earns the hill its name. What makes the hill a worthy stop for both river cruise tourists and those arrive from Guilin City by bus tour is its twelve kilometer long water-eroded cave. It is a wonderland of various stalactite, stone pillars and rock formations in the cave. Since it is open to tourists in 1995, illuminating lights, sound control tour guide system and escalators are equipped in the scenic area and sightseeing cars and boats enable visitors to tour inside the cave. The government plan to build this site as an all-round tourist area including cave visiting, country sightseeing and ethnic minority exploration. It is estimated to become an important excursion site along the Li River. Tourists can stay in the hotels and villas in the scenic area.

Half-Side Ferry (Ban Bian Du)
Not very far from the Crown Cave on the western bank, a huge rock descends into the river and cuts off a footpath by the water edge. Villagers have to take a ferry to reach the other side and continue the way. So, this spot gets its name Half-Side Ferry (for usually ferry means to transport people by boat across a body of water and reach the opposite bank)

From Yangdi to xingping
Down stream from Yangdi to xingping, the river passes an endless procession of distinct peaks and bamboo groves and the stunning landscape. This part is the highlight of the cruise. Pinnacled peaks pop up and surprise visitors at each bend of the river. Water buffalos patrol on the fields; ducks paddle in the waters; peasants reap paddies in front of village houses; fishermen use the cormorants to catch the fish and return them to the boat and kids go home singing songs. All these create an idyllic and beautiful scene of the life removed from concrete cities.

A reputed attraction is Mural Hill, a 100-meter-high cliff face, which has been weathered and has stratified rock surface in various shades of colors. It is rumored that the colors present nine horses and a person who can identify them out is considered smart. Legendary stories are given to hill rocks and peaks and it is a delightful experience to appreciate the stunning landscape while listening to tour guide’s interpretation of the stories behind it.

Fisherman and cormorants
Guilin-Li River cruiseCormorants are good sized birds who enjoy diving underwater in search of fish. Fishermen use the cormorants to catch the fish and return them to the boat. The picture shows a cormorant fishergirl. But I think the girl is just a model for shots. Usually fishermen seem to be more sun-tanned. The fisherman drive the birds into the water where they dive below the surface in search of fish. When the birds catch a fish they return to the boat and the fisherman removes the fish from their throat and places it in the basket. The secret is that the fisherman places a cord around the bird’s neck to keep the bird from swallowing the fish.

Take one of Earth's most stunningly beautiful cruises at Li RiverWater Buffalo
You will see buffalos gazing along the river bank or patrolling on the fields. They seem to be indispensable friends of peasants, especially for kids.

Yellow Cloth Shoal
Li River of GuilinBoating downstream southward from the Mural Hill about 500 meters, peaks become steep and the river become wide and quiet. A huge yellow flagstone lying under the limpid waters can easily be seen. It is like a cloth piece and people called it Yellow Cloth Shoal. There are seven green peaks standing nearby. A legend goes that the seven peaks are fairy girls from the heaven who took baths in the river. Enthralled by the charming scene, they stayed here and become into the peaks. With verdant bamboos, the green peaks under the blue sky reflected on the quiet waters create a spectacular scene. Sometimes, people doubt they see boats floating on hill tops. Many Chinese paintings and poems present this charming scene and tourists run out of their films for it.

xingping
The river takes a big turn at xingping and endowed with beautiful and poetic scenery. It has been reproduced in many Chinese landscape paintings. Even the newly-issued 20 RMB note has the scenery on its back. A photographer once said: ‘Shots from any perspective for this place turn to be impressive and stunning’.

A ‘village’ on the river bank is worthy a visit. Chinese call it a ‘village’ because of the fact that nowadays it is inhabited by villagers. Actually, it is an age-old castle complex survived from over 500 years ago. Although some courtyard buildings have weathered through ages, the simple but elegant flying-eaves, roofs with colorful paintings, lattice windows and unique timber structures present the folk residence from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The villagers have the same surname of Zhao, so it is rumored that they are descendents of the imperial family in the Song Dynasty. Both Dr. Sun Yet-sun, the pioneer of China’s democratic revolution and US president Colinton paid a visit to the village on their visits to Li River.

Yangshuo
Li River cruise makes the small town known to foreigners. Located some 90 kilometers south of Guilin City, this town is the downstream end of the cruise but not the least. The enchanting fairyland of Yangshuo is renowned as the best in Guilin.

The town is very small that everyone will know you after one month. The West Street in the town lined with western cafes, restaurants and hotels is the best choice for people who want to explore Chinese life.

Yangshuo is a great place for hikes and cycling excursions. There’s no doubt that taking a close-up exploration to the country villages, you will have a taste of the rural life. One thing surprised us is the one-hour bamboo raft trip along Yulonghe River. We didn’t expect the scenery to be such a paradise.

That are some of the things, because of which Li River is considered for Travel Wonder in China.


Tags:

Social: Bookmark | Permalink | Comments
Oct16

Want to cruise with the most extravagant residential ship?

Published by nerdeff in ACTIVITIES, Chillin, Cruise, Eating, Fitness&Gym, Hotels, Relaxing, Resorts, Restaurants, Sailing, Ships, Spa

Want to cruise with the most extravagant residential ship? A seemingly growing trend in the cruise world is the residential cruise ship. And leading the way is The Magellan, at 860 feet long and weighing an incredible 72,000 tons. Facilities on-board include, restaurants, a spa, an indoor pool, an observatory, a greenhouse, a helicopter landing pad, a nightclub and a 450-seat live, satellite broadcast theatre. And, if that wasn’t enough, twelve new condos and a tennis court have now just been announced.

It is designed for the discerning traveler and if you have millions of dollars it will surround you with unparalleled luxury as you circumnavigate the globe.

With its unsurpassed craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail, the Magellan redefines luxury. It boasts 15 public and residence decks, with 212 exclusive homes, lavish amenities and impeccable service.

Want to cruise with the most extravagant residential ship?

This premier residential ship is limited to only 212 private homes, including 16 penthouses. Named for an exotic port of call, each residence offers unprecedented levels of luxury, enhanced by breathtaking views.

To ensure your ultimate comfort, each home features: Pioneer Elite audio-visual systems; Satellite Internet access, phone and TV; Top-of-the-line Whirlpool Architect stainless steel kitchen appliances; Jacuzzis; Walk-in closets; Picture windows and outside Terrace; Complete collection of furnishings, artwork, china and linens.

Want to cruise with the most extravagant residential ship?

Starting in mid-2009, the Magellan will sail to Portugal, Spain, France, Monaco, Italy, Tunisia, Malta, UK, Croatia, Greece, Turkey, Georgia, Ukraine, Romania, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Lebanon, Egypt, Libya, Gibraltar, Portugal, Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Poland, Latvia, Estonia, Russia, Finland, Sweden, Norway, Faeroe Islands, Iceland, Greenland, Canada, USA, Puerto Rico, Barbados, Grenada, Venezuela, Nether Antilles, Columbia, Panama, Ecuador, Peru, Chile and Argentina.

Owners of luxury residences of the Magellan cruise ship will have an opportunity to participate in a professionally-managed rental program comparable to that in condo hotels on land. Prices range from $1,875,000 to $6,200,000 for full ownership or 1/12th this amount for month-long fractionals.


Tags:

Social: Bookmark | Permalink | Comments