Many people only visualize ski slopes when they hear Switzerland; however this country has much to offer beyond the slopes in the urban cities of Zurich, Lucerne and Lausanne. These cities offer wonderful and interesting art, colorful old towns and beautiful waterfront settings worthy of a visit on your way to the slopes.

Zurich is located in the north and is Switzerland’s largest city and a major transportation hub. Like most Swiss cities, Zurich visitors and residents alike enjoy a huge body of water, Lake Zurich, provides the opportunity for romantic walks, bike rides and cruises. A great way to see the town is on a riverboat which functions similar to a city bus.

Known as one of Europe’s most "fountainous" cities, Zurich is sprinkled with more than 1200 fountains, a stream of cafes and streets with a colorful ambiance. One of the city’s art treasures is a set of Chagall stained-glass windows depicting Bible scenes located in the Fraumunster Church in the center of Zurich.

There is no better way to enjoy a beautiful sunny afternoon than to stroll through Backer Park which is considered to be one of the most beautiful and lush in all of Zurich. Once you have had your fill of the outdoors, head to the very interesting Indianermuseum where you can trace the history of the Native American culture. For a different type of culture, go over to Langstrasse, Zurich’s red light district. As dusk falls, it is great to stop for a drink at Long Street Bar or get in a few laughs at Volkshaus Zurich comedy club.

An hour south of Zurich lays the beautiful city of Lucerne. A covered, medieval Chapel Bridge forms the centrepiece of the city’s townscape and is considered to be one of the oldest, covered wooden bridges in Europe. Approximately 100 colorful paintings, some replicas and some dating from the 17th century, hang under the bridge’s rafters, showing scenes from Lucerne’s history. Swans often cluster near the bridge and locals will tell you the swans arrived in the 17th century as a gift from Louis XIV in appreciation for the protection the Swiss Guards provided him.

Historic houses are decorated with frescoes which line the numerous picturesque town squares such as ‘Weinmarkt’ square.

Picasso fans will want to see Lucerne’s Rosengart Collection which showcases several dozen black-and-white candid photographs of the artist. Here you will see Picasso in the bathtub, getting a haircut, playing dress-up and horsing around with children.

Lucerne is a city of town squares and churches. The Jesuit church dating from the 17th century is regarded as Switzerland’s first sacral Baroque building and the twin towers of the Hofkirche form an integral part of the townscape. The figure of a dying lion which was chiselled from rock in remembrance of the heroic death of Swiss guards killed during an attack on the Tuileries in 1792, is one of the best-known monuments in Switzerland.

Tradition and modern life stand side-by-side with ease in Lucerne, as the town has also earned a reputation for itself with innovative design. The futuristic Culture and Convention Centre, the KKL, designed by leading French architect Jean Nouvel, is one of the architectural highlights of the town. The Center is also a landmark of Lucerne and a venue for a wide variety of cultural events throughout the year.

Lucerne is the ideal starting point for many excursions to the highlights of central Switzerland. A trip up one of Lucerne’s regional mountains, the Pilatus or the Rigi - the queen of mountains - is a must. But excursions up onto the Stanserhorn, or a steamship cruise on Lake Lucerne with its many bends and arms are worthy experiences.

The Wilhelm Tell Express originates in Lucerne and ferries its passengers to the foot of the Gotthard pass via Lake Lucerne and then continues by rail into Ticino, south of the Alpine ridge. The "cherry road" leads from Lucerne through the landscape of cheery trees.

Lausanne is perched elegantly above Lake Geneva and has been home to the International Olympic Committee since 1915. The museum here displays a colorful history of the games complete with a century of ceremonial torches and medals. The evolution of sports equipment is evident here containing Carl Lewis’ track shoes and Sonia Henie’s ice skates.

Lausanne’s city centre spans several hilltops, linked by bridges spanning deep, river less gorges. Place St. Francois dominates the hilltop district known as the Bourg, formerly the wealthiest part of the city and still known for its upscale markets and boutiques. To the north the hill of The Old Town, crowned by the Cathedral, dominates the city. Expansion during the nineteenth century broadened the city scope to the east and west. The pedestrian walking zone lies north of the train station and provides great entertainment for shoppers and locals alike.

The waterfront area is the happy domain of commoners, office workers and roller skaters. The locals nicknamed their town the San Francisco of Switzerland for all its hills as it seems to be a trek each direction.

If you are a shopper, items to purchase in Switzerland may include pottery, watches, crystal, embroidered items, wood carvings, clocks (including cuckoos), Swiss army knives, liquors (Williamine, the best thing that can be done with a pear), lace, textiles, folklore souvenirs (such as music boxes), cowbells, cheese, antiques, stainless-steel cutlery, ski equipment and clothing, leather goods, shoes and of course chocolates!

Whether you enjoy displays of modern art or wish to explore Old World charm, the cities of Switzerland seem to have it all. While most people come to enjoy, explore and ski the alpine peaks, there is more to this country to be found in its glorious urban areas.

Lynda S. Schauf, President of Laura’s Travel Services, Inc in Redlands California. Lynda visits all places she highlights and invites you to read her articles at http://aboutredlands.com/businesses/716-laura-s-travel-service-inc where you will be sure to save money and travel well.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lynda_S._Schauf

Visiting Stockholm is a must for any international traveler, and discount travel deals can be found, if you look hard enough. Check out my recommendations for Discount Travel Deals found after this article about Stockholm.

You\’d be hard pressed to find a prettier setting for a capital city than Stockholm, Sweden. With one third of the city\’s area made up of waterways, it seems like it is part of the sea… and seafaring is certainly in the Swedish blood.

It\’s a city that spreads over 14 islands, but you only need to visit three or four of them to get a real feeling for this Nordic capital. The sea that Stockholm sits next to is the Baltic, but it is actually built on Lake Malaren which flows into the Baltic.

Norrmalm is the downtown area. The combined train and bus station is there. You\’ll find lots of hotels and shopping on this island. It\’s a convenient place to stay, and it\’s within walking distance to Gamla Stan.

Gamla Stan is the Old Town. It\’s a colorful, well preserved tangle of winding, cobble-stoned streets lined with restaurants, antique stores and tourist shops. It\’s anchored by the Royal Palace. You\’ll spend much of your time just wandering here.

You can watch the Changing of the Guard at the Royal Palace at noon. Tour the Palace itself. You\’ll find street performers or you may stumble on a school band concert like we did in the small square in front of the Nobel Museum.

Djurgarden is Stockholm\’s playground, with several museums, an open air folk museum, and an amusement park. The first place you want to head is the Vasamuseet, The Vasa Museum. The Vasa is a well preserved 17th century Swedish warship.

She is really beautiful to behold, but she was a sailor\’s nightmare…. having sunk 20 minutes into her maiden voyage. It was probably because she sank in those shallow, cold and brackish waters that she survived to be raised and put in this museum for us to marvel at.

Around the corner from the Vasa is an exhibit building that houses old boats including one used by the King for Royal weddings and greeting dignitaries. Also on this island is Skansen, Europe\’s first open-air folk museum. Today, around 150 traditional and historic houses and buildings have been moved here from all over Sweden.

If you have time, you could visit the Nordic Museum to learn about Swedish cultural history. And for the child in you, you could visit the Tivoli Grona Lund amusement park.

Skeppsholmen is a small island stuck in the middle of these three. It\’s a traffic-free park with trails and the Museum of Modern Art.

You can arrive by cruise ship right into the heart of the city or fly into Arlanda Airport. If you fly in, the fastest way to get into the city is the Arlanda Express train. It\’s a little expensive, but you can get a two-for-one price on weekends. It effectively whisks you into town in 20 minutes.

The Flygbussarna, the airport bus, is half as much, but it takes longer with traffic. Airport shuttles are another alternative that will get you right to your hotel if you\’re staying in Gamla Stan or away from the central train/bus station.

The Tourist Office at any point of entry will give you lots of information on where to stay, how to get into town and how to get around. They\’re very helpful.

Stockholm is a city that invites wandering on foot or getting around on the water with the hop-on-hop-off sightseeing boats. You really should see it from both perspectives… land and sea… because it\’s such a beautiful combination of both.

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Spain is a beautiful country rich in diversity, history and culture. The country is large in size measuring 208,000 square miles. This gives the traveler a wide range of geographical mileage to cover. Spain also has a large number of cities which are unique and varied. The traveler will be spoiled for choice on which city to visit. Touring Spain by car gives the traveler a chance to experience the scenery at their own leisure, in the comfort of their own car. Traveling by car is also more economical than hiring a tour company for their services. The driving experience is not difficult as the roads in Spain are in very good condition.

Each region in Spain differs in the diversity of traditions as well as scenery they have to offer. Driving through the country enables the traveler to venture into those regions they otherwise would not if they were traveling by other means. Scenery to watch out for includes the green mountainous hills, tropical forests as well as beautiful sea bays. A foreign traveler has the option of renting a car in Spain or coming with their own.

The foreign traveler who prefers to bring their own vehicle should however check to ensure that they have the proper documents needed for the car. Such documents include: the log book, a valid driving license and car insurance. The traveler is also required to have with them a valid passport. According to Spanish traffic rules, the traveler is required to pack such amenities as car tools in case of breakdowns, triangular hazard signs as well as spare tires. The traveler should also acquaint himself well in advance on the traffic rules and regulations of the country. The traveler should also equip himself with a map showing the locations they intend to visit during their travels.

Spain is a country which is well known for its rich and colorful festivals known as fiestas. These fiestas are common throughout the year but most especially during the Easter season. Examples of such festivities include:Festival de Jerez which is a Flamenco dance festival, Fiestas de Otono which involves a three day party with lots of wine and dance, the world famous Corrida de Toros, also known as race of the bulls or bull fighting, and the prominent la tomatina festival which is the world’s biggest tomato throwing festival. All these festivals take place in various cities in Spain. These festivals take place in different months of the year. The traveler can therefore arrange their travel itinerary in such a way that they would be able to attend and experience these activities.

Traveling by car enables the traveler to take their time when venturing through the scenic countryside. They can stop to view the stunning Spanish landscape comprising of hilly towns as well as exclusive architecture. The traveler can also take time to sample Spain’s famous delicacies like tacos and paellas. Spain is a country that holds a wonderful blend of style, art and tradition. The diverse numbers of cities vary in dialect, culture, weather patterns and mores. Any traveler would surely enjoy venturing into this picturesque city.

Find the best deal on the auto insurance coverage you need. Visit us today for money-saving tips and receive free quotes from respected insurance companies for the coverage you need.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Levi_Quinn

By Hans Ericsson

Hans Ericsson currently resides in Portland, Maine where he works full time as a writer. 

The famous Amalfi Coast is the area on the southern side of the Sorrentine Peninsula of Italy. It goes from Positano and spreads almost all the way to Salerno. Breathtaking is a word that could be used to describe it. There are people who travel to Italy solely to visit this beautiful area. Just one visit and you will understand why!

The coastal towns and villages welcome travelers from all over the world who come for delicious home made cuisine. You will find family owned shops that have selling breads, local cheeses and sausages for centuries. Of course, there is an ample supply of local wines, so it might be a good idea to treat yourself to a chauffeur driver who is familiar with the cliff side road.

The coastal road is well known for being tremendously beautiful, as well as a marvel of engineering. As a passenger, you will not be able to take your eyes off the beautiful beaches, from the top of the cliffs upon which the road sits. A glance downward can be startling for those afraid of heights, so if you are a driving, you will want to try your best not to be distracted! It is a part of Italy that attracts millions every year and is, for many, the driving experience of a lifetime!

During the summer months, it can be hard to find an available vehicle, so make sure you book your rental car in advance next time you travel to Italy. You will be glad you did!

Article written by Hans Ericsson of Auto Europe.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Hans_Ericsson

Copenhagen Happiness Packages

Want your clients to experience Danish Happiness? Here’s your change to offer you a slice of Happiness with the Copenhagen Happiness package! Offering excellent value, the Copenhagen getaway presents choices of perks that’ll make you happy. Choose from a variety of packages from the Hotel D’Angleterre, Radisson Blue Royal hotel, Admiral Hotel and Clarion Collection Hotel Twentyseven offering such perks such as drinks at the ICEBAR CPH, an elegant three-course dinner, champagne & strawberries and much more. Fly with Scandinavian Airlines and  will receive a Copenhagen City Card. Read more about Copenhagen Happiness!

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Copenhagen and Stockholm - a perfect Scandinavian blend

Two Scandinavian capitals, perfect for a short-vacation break. Each city offer a contemporary lifestyle mixing beautifully with a historic past. Explore for yourself what Copenhagen and Stockholm have to offer your clients. Browse videos, suggested itineraries, special offers and sign up to win! Read more

Historical Hotels in Denmark

Want to offer your clients something special? Historic Hotels in Denmark are a perfect blend of beautiful hotels, manor houses, castles and seaside hotels all with their own personal history. Many of the hotels are a marvel in gastronomic experiences. Get more information and special offers from the Historic Hotels here

Oprah gets happy
In October 2009, TV host Oprah Winfrey visited Copenhagen and discovered why Denmark is considered the happiest nation on earth. She praised the Danes’ environmental consciousness; excellent education, maternity leave for men and women, healthcare and social programs; but she especially loved rugbrød - the dark Danish rye bread that sums up life in Denmark: natural, unpretentious and cozy. Feel inspired to treat your clients to Danish rugbrød? Here’s the recipe. For more on Danish Cuisine

Looking for inspiration for your clients next Copenhagen vacation?

Watch films about:
Festivals
Green Copenhagen
Copenhagen by bike
Music in Copenhagen
Copenhagen Cocktail
Christmas in Copenhagen
Insider tips from Copenhageners
and much more…

Watch films about Copenhagen

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Surveys show:
Danes are the world’s
happiest people!

Read the
online edition of
Denmark Magazine 2009

Where are you headed to this year? Are you considering an England vacation? If you do, then it is one of the most promising tours that you can ever have. Being on a vacation is indeed a memorable event for you and your family. So if you need you are going out of a rural area with good friends or with your relatives, there’s one vital thing that comes around and that is your trip will involve spending money. Yet, you don’t need to worry that often because whatever amount that goes out of your pocket is equaled by the most unforgettable enjoyment, fun, and thrill! When all said and done, England is such a vast place that the attractions therein are valued visiting.

Fun Things to Keep You Busy during Your Stay

Alright so you’re searching forward to your stay in England. Of course the best place to visit is the famous city of London. Here are the lid 10 activities that should make up your list.

Go to the British Museum. If you need or not you are a history bug, the British Museum will surely fascinate you. It houses more than fifteen million of artifacts so the visit will open your eyes to its rich historical accounts in addition to provide you with an instructive see. Its numerous collections are unlikely to fail to stimulate your mood and if you get tired, you can invariably head towards the museum caf.

Capture the wonder of London Bridge by dusk. Being the renowned London icons, the bridge itself stands majestically across the River Thames. The river flows peacefully even though there is a general traffic jam over the bridge. Take photos of it at dusk and you will definitely love the scenery!

See the Huge Ben and the Time piece Tower. The time piece tower is considered to be the biggest four-faced chiming time piece with a captivating structural design. The Huge Ben whereas is the gigantic bell that is in a clock tower.

See for yourself the changing of the Queens’ Guards. Be sure not to miss this opportunity of witnessing the changing of the guards at the Buckingham Palace.

Tour the Westminster Palace. If you head to London on the summertime, you can grab an opportunity of getting into the palace and hearing of its educational and historical commentaries.

Go shopping at Harrods. If you want you want to buy or simply look around, this shopping place is truly worth your time. In here you will likewise see the memorial sculptures of Dodi Al Fayed and Princess Diana.

Walk around Trafalgar Square. You may not be in a position to feed the pigeons as it has been already banned yet outdoors square provides a great place for using some kind of walk.

Pay homage to St. Paul’s Cathedral. The Gothic architecture have been destroyed by the fire in the year 1710 but it currently stands beautifully with fantastic facades. Do not forget to pass by its Whispering Gallery too.

Visit the London Eye. Take a full view of the city as you ride this Ferris Wheel.

Sit and marvel at Shakespeare’s Globe Theater. Plays and educational tours are offered therein so you could commemorate the historical essence of this place.

So, are you already up for the fun and adventure that an England vacation holds for you?

Willieni Cholson has been writing articles online for nearly 2 years now. Not only does this author specialize in weight loss,fitness and diet, you can also check out his latest website on concept 2 rowing machine and patio table and chair covers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Willieni_Cholson

See More of Europe for a Lot Less. Save on Round-Trip Flights from $380 on British Airways!

River cruising is a delightful and trouble-free way to see many countries around the world such as Europe, Russia, and China, the Nile River and even the Hudson River in the United States. You unpack and pack only once and are taken from one fascinating country to the next, creating memories that would be very difficult to create any other way, all at an unhurried pace.

European River cruises, allow you to glimpse medieval palaces and churches in modern cities and charming country villages the length of one of Europe’s most delightful rivers. Romance, diversity, and personality may be discovered on one of Europe’s many European river cruises, it is a way for everyone to glimpse the greatest cities in Europe such as Paris, Prague, Vienna, Passau, and Budapest.

You will find a variety of polar and exploration cruises, tall ship cruises, lavishness hotel barges in Europe, and an excellent Christmas river cruise assortment. No matter which trip you decide on, river cruises allow you to experience some of the world’s historical, fascinating and significant sites.

Cruising Russian rivers takes you by cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg. The ships in the Russian market are minimalistic compared to other destinations, however they are comfortable and a great way to see Russia.

Should you choose to take a river cruise in China you will glimpse great cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Kiev, Odessa and many others in addition to the extraordinary little villages and picturesque scenes that line the China’s great rivers.

In Cambodia cruises are known for the tours offered along the river such as trekking, hiking, kayaking tours, cycling, bicycling trips, beach holidays, vacations, eco-tours and include many extras.

On-board one of the many cruise ships on the Nile River you will find all cabins are air-conditioned and cruise trips are mostly all inclusive (excluding alcohol); including an assortment of ethnic dishes being served in the cruise ships restaurant.

In the United States, cruising along the Hudson River, in the Northeast, has gained in reputation and changed through the years to become a leading attraction for travelers. The ships continually move, you become aware of new sights and sounds, you discover different locations all through each and every day.

If cruising on a river through a jungle is what you have dreamed about now is the time to take advantage of the great pricing available to you. You will witness hard to believe wildlife and creature viewing on a cruise along the Amazon River.

Most ships are comfortable and intimate, and every stateroom has an outside river view. Your cruise fare includes deluxe accommodations, on-board meals, shore excursions and cultural enrichment activities.

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Pricing by age is not offered on river cruises; however cabin category pricing is available to all passengers at current rates. River cruises are also combinable with other tour itineraries that may contain hotel stays.

While on-board guests enjoy fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere. In the open-seating restaurant chefs create a variety of delicious offerings featuring European, Russian or Chinese specialties adapted for Western tastes with fresh seasonal vegetables and soups prepared throughout their cruise.

You are taken to the heart of every destination on a river cruise. Each day you enjoy guided tours, informative demonstrations, hands-on activities and leisure time to explore shop and mingle with the locals. You’ll return home enriched with new cultural understanding and fond memories of a remarkable journey.

With all-inclusive itineraries, you’ll receive great value for your travel investment because most river cruise pricing includes a cabin, all meals, guest lectures, sightseeing and entertainment while on-board. So many cherished memories are made on a river cruise; you get to places and witness things that you are not likely to replicate any other way.

My name is Donna Baker-Olson, CTM and I am passionate about travel. My first trip to Fiji in 1981 created a passion that led me to obtain a degree in Travel and Tourism and certification as a Professional Tour Director, and led me to start up my own travel business, "Escape to Travel". I continue to expand my knowledge through Specialization courses and follow-up trips to enhance my education. I am an accredited Specialist in several areas of travel. Visit my website http://www.escapetotravel.com.

While visiting Portugal, it is always advised to take car hire in Portugal as there are too many places to visit and a rental car always make your job easy and gives you comfort for driving around. For example, the capital city Lisbon only has so many places that will justify why you should take car hire in Portugal while visiting places like this.

You can take car rental in Portugal from the Lisbon Portela airport, where you can arrive through most of the European cities frequently. From here you can visit the museums that are all around Lisbon. The significant museum is Museo Calouste Glubenkian, where you can find Egyptian and Renaissance master’s work and crafts. You can also watch music performances and popular Portuguese cultural programs here.

See More of Europe for a Lot Less. Save on Round-Trip Flights from $380 on British Airways!

Other kind of museums include Museo da Marinha, Museu de Arte, Museu Nacional dos Coches, etc. that are spread across Lisbon and you can visit them fast if you have thought of car hire in Portugal. Some of the curious displays in these museums are ancient customs and folklore crafts, Portuguese cultural and ancient society display and decoratives and of course, unique kind of last 2 century carriages in Museu Nacional dos Coches.

There also are many architectural wonders you can drive through car rental in Lisbon, Portugal including many palaces and renaissance forts. Monastery of Jeronimos is one of the perfect example being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was around 5 centuries old royal burial ground. Then there are Castelo de Sao Jorge and Elevador de Santa Justa, which are situated a bit far apart, but worth visiting for their unique architecture and building structure.

After that you should make it a point to drive to the largest aquarium in Europe that is situated in Lisbon. The Oceanario is one of the unique aquarium to which kids and young people will surely like to visit. There is various kinds of species here and you can ask for guided tours, too.

At the evening, you can reserve your time to visit some restaurants and dance club, however you must surely drive through Solar do Vinho do Porto, which is famous for the fortified Portuguese wine. You must also enjoy the Fado music performance famous in Portugal.

There are lots of place to visit through out Portugal too and every place like Lisbon contains so many wonders to be explored that you will find really less time to finish all your searches. So, it is always suggested to take "car hire in Portugal" to make most of your time.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jose_Costa

While Amsterdam is well known for its architecture and relationship with art, it is also brimming with events and festivals that the whole family can enjoy while on holiday in this historic city. A look below at a few of the family events and festivals worth visiting Amsterdam for.

If you have ever had to explain where Santa Claus comes from, then you can rest assured that your children will love celebrating St. Nicholas’ birthday in Amsterdam. The annual event sees St Nicholas arrive by ship and ride a white horse to Dam Square. He is accompanied by clowns and acrobats and a large part of Amsterdam’s local population watch from the sidelines. Children and parents who are young at heart are guaranteed to love welcoming St. Nicholas to Amsterdam.

Alitalia flights to Europe this Fall & Winter from $500! ends 11/9

Around the same time of the year, Amsterdam is home to one of the most impressive fireworks displays in the region on New Years Eve.

The Keukenhof is also a must-see destination in Amsterdam for all families. Known to be the largest garden in the world, the Keukenhof has an impressive display of tulips and daffodils, among other flowers and themed gardens. The Holland Flower Festival is equally impressive and never fails to fascinate both adults and children alike. Amsterdam although not in a country with a tropical or even Mediterranean style climate, is still a place where the great outdoors is very much appreciated and this is reflected in the cycling culture and also the large number of gardening shows.

De Parade, a travelling theatre group which visits Amsterdam every year is always a huge success with children. It features seventeen days of magic, theatre, dance and animation and is one of the best festivals for families. The event takes place annually in Amsterdam during August and similar events are held in other Dutch cities such as Rotterdam and Utrecht in June and July.

The Annual Windmill Day held in Amsterdam always wins the hearts of children who are visiting and gets their imagination working as well. The event opens up all of Amsterdam’s many windmills to the public and allows tourists to explore them at leisure. This is a true cultural event in that it is quite specific of the Dutch culture and thus one which is a must for those seeking a festival with a difference and reflective of the local country in which it is held.

Paul writes about Amsterdam travel & nightlife and Amsterdam vacation rentals.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Symonds

See More of Europe for a Lot Less. Save on Round-Trip Flights from $380 on British Airways!

We are living on one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean.  Mallorca has the advantage of a hot summer sun and refreshing Mediterranean Sea breezes, the perfect climate for an enchanting, relaxing summer holiday, and can be experienced  from May until the end of October.  In the winter the weather is mild, although at night it can get quite chilly and there is usually lots of sunshine around. There is so much going on, on this island, that there is something  for everyone, no matter what the season or the interest.

If you are inspired by the beauty of this island then you will probably be very interested in taking part in some of the organised walks in Mallorca or visiting  some of their wildlife parks around the island.   Perhaps you would like to discover Mallorca independently either by car, bicycle, quad or even sailing around its perimeter, whatever the means you decide upon please make sure that you are kitted out with the necessary phone numbers and accessories (i.e. sunblock etc.) should you need them, our Mallorca sun can be quietly, dangerous for those not used to it and can cause problems both regarding health and ruining your holiday.  We have a list of useful numbers available here, that would probably be good to carry with you in case of any sort of emergency and of course remember to take the telephone number of your hotel or accommodation with you should you venture out into the unknown!

If you love sailing and are here with your own boat or wish to explore the island by boat then please take advantage of the yachting and marine services and facilities available on and around the island in order to make your trip one of your greatest memories of Mallorca.  There are so many wonderful places to visit on this island whichever mode of transport you choose.  Also don’t forget, if you are a sailing enthusiast to check up on the dates of Sailing Week.

Should you not feel up to being quite so independent, do not despair, there are many local services which offer an array of different excursions in, and around the island.  Perhaps you would like to experience a wonderful Mallorqian market.  Luckily here on the island there are several during the week so if you are out on an excursion there is always the possibility to go to the market another day.  Maybe just a day lounging about on the beach is really all that you want to do, we have many wonderful beaches on this island and we know, without a double, there will be one that is just perfect for your needs not so far away. Of course there is the beautiful capital of Mallorca - Palma - that you really need to take a look at, especially the old town. If you want to be just a little more adventurous you could always try using the ferries for some Island Hopping and check out Ibiza or Menorca.

For those of you looking for the night life, there are an unbelievable amount of bars and clubs to be found around the island and particularly in Palma.  Perhaps you would like to visit a typical Spanish tapas bar or a late night bar, a family bar, a beach front bar, a classy bar or any other sort of bar.  Check out our listings for all of the different types of bars here on the island, you will always find something ‘just right’ here in Mallorca.
Perhaps you would like to find a restaurant, one with a traditional Spanish ‘flavour’ or a typical English meal.  Do you want expensive, first class or cheap and cheerful, whatever you need check out our listings and see the sorts of restaurants available here on the island.  There is an incredible amount of choice of international cuisine which will really make your choice difficult but rewarding.

Ok so now what about the children, did we forget them?  There are many entertainment facilities available for the children such as Waterparks and  Marine Land, and of course the beach - all that sand, sun and amazing warm sea water - what more could they want.  The tide barely moves, so you don’t need to, the sand is perfect for those sandcastles and just ‘rinse’ your little darlings off in warm sea water when they are up to their ears in sand and you want to get some lunch or take a trip around the lovely little souvenir shops scattered around the sea front area of most beach front resorts.  For older ‘children’ there are a variety of water-sports available, throughout the island on the beaches, for them to try and ‘write home about’.
If you are a golf enthusiast then Mallorca has several excellent golf courses for you to use and there are usually golf competitions going on fairly regularly. 
As well as its natural beauty with mountains, lakes and stunning views which include mountains and sea, Mallorca has much history to see in its variety of architecture throughout the island. Throughout history it has conquered the hearts of many well known tourists from far back in time such as Luis Salvador, Archduke of Habsburg, Lotringa and Borbón, Empress Sissi, Robert Graves and many more. Even today it captures the hearts of the rich and famous with the likes of Andrew Lloyd-Webber and Michael Douglas, to name but two, owning property on this stunning island.
Are you interested in ‘Celebrity Watching’?  Check out what’s happening with celebrities on the island and the most likely place to spot them having lunch, coffee or shopping.  As well as celebrities Mallorca welcomes the Spanish Royal Family every year for a holiday and to compete in Sailing Week.

There are a multitude of beautiful properties on this island that you can rent or buy with a rich variety of architecture influenced by, days gone by, the present, and some quite futuristic.  Whether you seek a luxury villa or a studio flat on the coast, a finca set in acres of land or a villa on top of the cliffs, the variety on this island is vast and it is well worth taking time over such things in order to acquire the perfect property.
As all of Spain, Mallorca has many ‘Fiestas’ (festivals) which can mean that everything closes for the day, even supermarkets, especially when you are away from the more touristy areas, also be aware that if you stay out of tourist areas or are visiting this sort of area everything closes on a Sunday, make sure you are sorted with your food and drinks.
Whether living here or just visiting this island there are several things you need to be aware of, and know how to find your way to, which is why we provide you here on this website with several very important lists such as Hospitals and Clinics, Dentists,Consulates, Tourist Offices and District and Town Halls for your use.   We also have information on Palma Airport  as well as information as to where to go for a haircut, manicure, pedicure, and much more, a very necessary piece of information for any woman new to the island. It is also important to know about healthcare, traditional and alternative, available on this island.
Should you decide to or have already made the decision to come and live here there are a few other things that we have that might be very useful for you when living on this island.  It is very important when bringing children over here to think about the educational opportunities available to them and whether a Spanish school or International school would be for the better.
The lifestyle here in Mallorca is much more laid back than many countries but please do not be deceived by this it is also a very challenging environment to live in with many different cultures crossing each other.  A wonderful array of different cultures meeting also brings a wonderful array of language difficulties.  If possible come with Spanish, if not try and get into the free ones offered by the council or use local teachers who offer their services, it really will make life on Mallorca so much simpler.

Find out more about activities on the island and the towns around mallorca on AdsMallorca.

June Haigh is the creator and owner of AdsMallorca - http://www.adsmallorca.com - an online website catering for the English speaking community living in Mallorca. The website has information on Mallorca as well as free classifieds and a business directory. This website and its information is directed at residents of, as well as visitors to, the island of Mallorca.

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