Have you ever thought what it would be like to just relax quietly under the sun and at sea-no hustling or bustling, far away from the madding crowds in a casual attire and in clean air and just a small group of likeminded people as company? You are on a World Cruise- around the world, Australia and New Zealand, the Orient, South America, South Pacific, Asia, Europe and the Mediterranean. The ships are equipped with spacious, well-furnished cabins with private facilities having a well-upholstered lounge, a library, good deck space and a small pool. The fares typically range from $70 to $130 a day and the world cruise is for duration from about four to ten weeks, but some are two to three weeks and some are longer.

With World Cruise, you cover 27 nations on five continents. You navigate through the French Polynesia, Great Barrier Reef of Australia, glacier carved fjords of New Zealand, enchanted China’s landscapes and the forbidden palaces. You pay a visit to bazaars in Hong Kong and the buddhas in Bangkok, the colonial and modern blend in Singapore. Enjoy exploring Delhi, Jaipur or the Taj Mahal at Agra and the tombs and temples under the ruling King times. The World Cruise even takes you to Antartica -the ultimate destination. It sure is a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience the grandeur of Rome, the glory of Rome through the warm waters of the equatorial Atlantic.

Taking the world cruise will be the most memorable vacation you have ever undertaken. You would cherish this experience for the rest of your life where you learn about history or diverse cultures the world over or simply unwind yourself. World cruises provide American customers a service of a lifetime-delicious meals, sightseeing, and entertainment combined with a relaxed friendly atmosphere-value for money as you may understand. Now you can sail in style and comfort- Volga river, Moscow canal, Volga/Baltic canal, the Svir River, the Rybinski Reservoir, Lake Ladoga, Lake Onega, and the Neva River. You will certainly be the envy of the Byzantine Emperors as you travel the legendary route between Scandinavia to Kiev and the Black Sea until you reach Dnieper River. Great works of art-’the Panorama of the Sevastopal Battle’ and you can also visit the room where Roosevelt, Churchill and Stalin signed the Yalta Treaty in 1945.

Age is no constraint to take the World Cruise-whether you are 79 or reaching 80, you are welcome aboard. Of course, if you are under 13 the insurance companies might restrict your entry into the cruise. A month prior to departure, you will receive the boarding information along with the ticket package. You may receive a mailing list with port agent addresses with your ticket package-so you can be in touch with your family and friends while sailing. The only change you can expect is the change in the boarding date. However, you may not know the actual time of boarding until the day before or day of boarding.

Do not forget to carry cash, US currency only. Personal checks, traveler checks and credit cards are unacceptable. For you to undertake the world cruise emergency medical/evacuation is necessary. This covers you medically in foreign ports and allows you to avail medical treatment in case of illness. Mostly if you are over 65 years, it is obligatory to have a medical certificate within ninety days of sailing. You need not worry about canceling your trip due to covered reasons as you are covered for it too under trip cancellation/interruption insurance.

Looking for information about cruises? Go to:

http://www.whatcruises.com

‘What Cruises’ is published by Colin Hartness

- An excellent resource for Cruises!

Italy cruises depart from several ports around the country. Many depart from Civitavecchia - the gateway port to Rome. However, to get the full Italy experience it is recommended that an Italy cruise be embarked upon from the ports of Savona or Genoa on the Ligurian Peninsula and taken all the way round to Venice, or vice-versa. This way, you’ll discover that there’s a lot more to Italy than a cruise departing from Civitavecchia would be able to show you!

So, what delights await in this classical land? The Ligurian Peninsula is a true paradise. Largely undiscovered by mass tourism, quaint Italian villages line the coastline in this spectacular part of Italy. Beautiful sandy beaches alternate with rocky headlands, and magnificent coastal villages shine like beacons on the shore.

In Genoa you can discover the birthplace of Christopher Columbus and marvel at the city’s stunning Gothic architecture. A little further to the south Livorno is a port of call worth spending a little time at. Here, you will be able to arrange shore excursions to see the famous leaning tower of Pisa, as well as visit the grand Renaissance city of Florence - home to Dante, Michaelangelo and the Medicis.

The Colosseum at Rome, Mount Vesuvius and the ancient city that it buried - Pompeii - are essential attractions to visit when on an Italy cruise, as is Rimini on the Adriatic Sea. From Rimini you can take a shore excursion to visit the enclave of San Marino, which is less than an hour’s drive from Rimini port.

Finally, irresistible Venice awaits as the final stop at the end of your cruise. Venice is a true waterworld, consisting of more than 120 islands through which a network of waterways can be explored by gondola. Renaissance-style architecture is everywhere in this city, and you’ll be able to take a shore excursion that takes in the famous Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs.

So, whether you want to discover what it felt like to be a gladiator in Rome’s Colosseum, peer into the gigantic crater of Mt Vesuvius or navigate your way around Venice’s canal system, an Italy cruise is a special adventure that you’ll never forget.

John Metcalfe is the webmaster for A to Z Cruises which is the No1 resource for Italy Cruise related Information on the Internet. Be sure to visit his site here:http://www.azcruises.com/italycruise/

Copyright John Metcalfe - http://www.azcruises.com

A huge clash of cultures await all who opt for a
Mediterranean cruise. You can visit no less than
17 different countries, including such nations as
Spain, Italy, Greece and Egypt. Each nation has its
own unique attractions, all of which you can sample
as your cruise ship gracefully sails around the calm
blue Mediterranean Sea.

More than 50 companies offer cruises along varied
routes in the Mediterranean. Some companies specialize
in providing Western Mediterranean cruises,
concentrating on ports of call around Portugal,
Spain, France, Italy and Morocco. Other companies
offer Eastern Mediterranean cruises which take in
Croatia, Greece, Turkey and countries in the Middle
East. Popular specialist Mediterranean cruises include
a tour of the North African nations, a Mediterranean
islands cruise that visits the island nations of
Cyprus and Malta, as well as cruises around the Greek
Islands. If you’re after a longer vacation, it is
possible to arrange a cruise itinerary that takes
you around most if not all of the Mediterranean
nations.

History, culture, grand cities, ancient monuments,
romantic islands and breathtaking views are all
within easy reach on a Mediterranean cruise. In the
Western Mediterranean you can discover the traditional
white Andalucian villages of Southern Spain, sample
the world-famous Manzanilla sherry in Cadiz and visit
the cultural hub of Europe in the shape of Barcelona,
before travelling onwards to the French Riviera.

A cruise that takes in the wonderful coastline of
Italy yields such treasures as the dormant volcano of
Mt Vesuvius, ancient Pompeii and the stunning city of
Rome. The islands of Sicily and Sardinia hold many
delights too on a Western Mediterranean cruise.

In the Eastern Mediterranean, cruise passengers can
discover the spectacular Croatian coastline and its
beautiful city - Dubrovnik, before diving
southeastwards to sample classical Greece and its
sultry islands. The island of Crete is always worth
a visit, if only for the historic Palace of Knossos.

A visit to the holy city of Jerusalem is a
worthwhile excursion from both Israeli ports -
Haifa and Ashdod - on a Mediterranean cruise of the
Middle East. Egypt’s Port Said is well worth a visit
too. Port Said provides access to the world famous
Suez Canal, which takes vessels into the Red Sea and
onwards in to the Arabian Sea.

The Mediterranean region has seen many a civilization
rise and fall. It is a crucible of human evolution
and is rich in relics left over by more than 6,000
years of occupation. If you’ve ever wanted to discover
what it felt like to be an Egyptian pharaoh, Roman
warrior or a Greek philosopher, a Mediterranean cruise
can give you just that opportunity..

John Metcalfe http://www.azcruises.com

About the Author

John Metcalfe is the webmaster for http://www.azcruises.com which is the No1 resource for Cruise related Information on the
Internet. Be sure to visit his complete archive of articles here:
http://www.azcruises.com/newsletter-articles

European cruises depart from most major seaports around Europe. They often cover a specific region of Europe, although some companies do offer a whirlwind tour of the major sites right around the European coastline.

Starting in Northern Europe, cruises around Scandinavia and the Baltic States are popular, especially those that take in the Norwegian fjords. Here, you can delight in stunning scenery where mountains rise up like towers in every direction, and where waterfalls and glaciers are almost within touching distance. There are majestic cities too. Oslo, Stockholm, Copenhagen and Helsinki, home to the Uspenski Cathedral - the largest orthodox church in Western Europe - can all be built into a European cruise itinerary.

Northern Europe also has its fair share of specialist cruises. You can do a cruise of the Baltic palaces or simply enjoy Norway’s awe-inspiring craggy coastline. A very popular Northern European cruise is a tour up the Scandinavian coastline into the Arctic Circle to view the ‘midnight sun’.

A European cruise around Western Europe embraces the British Isles, Ireland, the Low Countries and France. Scottish castles, the emerald green landscapes of Ireland and a visit to a French vineyard and chateaux are just some of the highlights of a cruise around Western Europe. You could also build in visits to historic ports of call, such as Portsmouth in England, where Nelson’s ‘Victory’ can be toured.

Moving further south into the Mediterranean Sea, a European cruise takes in the glory of the historical and beautiful Mediterranean coastline. Portugal, Spain, the French Riviera, Italy, Croatia, Greece and Turkey all have their own attractions. The colosseum of Rome, the birthplace of Salvador Dali, Monaco’s grandiose vista and the famous Turkish bazaars await all those who elect for a European cruise in the Mediterranean.

There are a number of specialist tours in the Mediterranean region too. You can enjoy the delights of classical Greece and its magnificent islands, or discover the magic of island hopping from the Balearic Islands in the west of the Mediterranean to Cyprus in the east.

A European cruise is a true voyage of discovery. Tour this region and you’ll unearth the very soul of Europe and uncover a past that is rich in intrigue and drama.

John Metcalfe is the webmaster for A to Z Cruises which is the No1 resource for European Cruise related Information on the Internet. Be sure to visit his site here:http://www.azcruises.com/europecruise/

Copyright John Metcalfe - http://www.azcruises.com

Sports activities are widely available on a carnival cruise. Volleyball, basketball, table tennis and even golf can be played on board the cruise ship. You will always have access to a well-equipped gymnasium too, along with personal trainers to help maximize your fitness routine while on the cruise ship. Additionally, there is a plethora of watersports on offer, including jet-skiing and opportunities to learn how to scuba dive.

Carnival cruise cuisine is delightful. All cruise ships pride themselves on offering a dining experience that is second to none. There is often a huge variety of restaurants, bistros, cafes and bars on board, providing everything from burger and fries meals to cordon bleu cooking. Meals are generally available 24/7, although some restaurants cater only for meals at set times.

The nightlife on a carnival cruise is all about having fun. Casinos, discos, bars and theaters can all be found on a carnival cruise ship, as well as specialist entertainment acts including the likes of comedians, dancers, magicians and theatrical stage performers. You can even learn how to dance ballroom if you want to!

Naturally, there are many opportunities to sign up for day/night excursions at the various ports of call on a carnival cruise. On a Mediterranean carnival cruise for instance, you could take in an Italian soccer game or visit the opera. On a Caribbean carnival cruise you could spend some time island-hopping or discovering underwater shipwrecks.

Whatever you decide to do on your carnival cruise, you’re sure guaranteed to have the time of your life - and with so much fun on offer don’t be surprised if you become addicted to carnival cruising!

John Metcalfe is the webmaster for A to Z Cruises which is the No1 resource for Carnival Cruise related Information on the Internet. Be sure to visit his site here:http://www.azcruises.com/carnivalcruise/

Copyright John Metcalfe - http://www.azcruises.com

(1) A repositioning cruise leaves one port and arrives in another. That is, a repositioning cruise does not return to the port from which it departed. This is because of the changing climates of the water. So, like birds, cruise ships relocate north or south depending on the season. This often takes a number of days and a lot of resources, so instead of relocating the ships sans passengers, the cruise lines offer “repositioning” cruises at a deeply discounted price.

(2) That brings us to pro number one. The cost is much less than your average cruise. However, since you have to pay your own air fare to and from the ports of call, it could end up being about the same in the long run, since your plane tickets to two different locations will likely be more than a standard round trip ticket.

(3) These trips are often longer than normal cruises, lasting an average of nine to eighteen days. This is great for longer vacations, and tend to be very relaxing for those who are able to take advantage of such an extended journey. However, many people can not afford to take so much time off of work, so this really is a niche market.

(4) Repositioning cruises tend to make much less stops at ports of call, since their main purpose is to relocate the ship to a final destination. This is good if you would like to spend a lot of time at sea, but if you want to see a lot of different places, than it is unlikely that you will find what you are looking for on a repositioning cruise.

So where can you find a repositioning cruise? Well, you could watch the birds and see which way they are flying. If that is not working for you, however, you could check out some of these resources:

* The Carnival Spirit winters on the Mexican Riviera and repositions to Alaska via Hawaii in the fall.

* The Carnival Liberty goes from the Mediterranean in the summer to the Atlantic in the fall

* The Celebrity Constellation and the Celebrity Millennium relocate from the Caribbean to Europe in the spring and then head back for the Americas in the fall

* The Costa Atlantica and Costa Mediterranea cross the Atlantic to reposition from the Caribbean to Europe in the spring.

There are many other opportunities to cash in on this great cruise discount. The best place to check is cruises repositioning from Alaska for the winter. Give your travel agent a call and check it out.

About the author:

Kirsten Hawkins is a cruise and travel expert specializing in discount cruises and travel. Visit http://www.luxury-cruise-deals.com/ for more information on how to cruise the world for little or no money.

A silent city by day where automobiles are generally off-limits (more out of respect for the ghosts of the city), Mdina really comes alive at night when hundreds of twinkling lamps and lanterns dotted within the walled interiors of the city transform the narrow, curved streets leading onto bastions and palace courtyards into something out of a fairytale. You can enjoy a delicious al-fresco meal at one of the countless restaurants of Mdina and enjoy a glass of chilled beer in any one of the bars under the glittering lights of this exotic walled city.

This old, medieval capital of Malta rises high above the Maltese Islands and offers panoramic vistas of the city. Many walking tours and scenic bus tours are available to discover the hidden delights of this magical city.

The Maltese Islands are at the very heart of the Mediterranean and are often referred to as the islands of sunshine and history. Less than a three hour flight from the UK and with a good range of airlines such as Air Malta and GB Airways operating daily flights from Gatwick, Heathrow, Stansted, Manchester and Birmingham as well as low cost carriers now operating from other regional airports, it has never been easier to get to Malta for a quick getaway or a longer holiday. Whether you’re after a weekend break or a fortnight in the sun, you’ll find it all on Malta specialists, www.mymalta.co.uk. Book your trip online and receive great savings on luxury hotels and cheap flights as well as a regular e-letter updating you on regular special free night offers, room upgrades and heavily discounted holiday packages.

Once you’ve seen the ancient city of Malta and its walled city of Mdina, been done by some innocent looking street vendor offering you a once-in-a-lifetime bargain and relaxed on the soft honeycomb at Ghadira Bay it’s then time to go diving! Malta offers amazing diving and water sport opportunities for both beginners and advanced open water and cave divers in its tiny, unspoilt island of Comino with its stunning blue lagoon. All visitors to Malta should take the time to visit the uninhabited island of Comino and the tranquil, green island of Gozo. Day trips to nearby Italian and Sicilian cities are very popular with tourists who can get there by car and passenger ferries.

Mike writes about “Weekend Breaks To Malta “. Get more information about Malta, a beautiful island at the very heart of Mediterranean, at www.mymalta.co.uk

Copyright Mike Anderson - http://www.mymalta.co.uk/

Virginia Wine Country isn’t just about wine. It is a lifestyle: gracious gardens, museums, dining out, nightlife, entertaining, recreation, sight seeing, American history battlefields, shopping, events, Inns and B&B s, attractions, antiquing and arts. If you can think of it, the Virginia wine country offers it. Plan to enjoy many of your favorite activities while in Virginia Wine Country: A day of golf at a world-class resort, horse back riding, renting bicycles and picnicking at a winery in the countryside, relive American History at Revolutionary, French & Indian or Civil War battlefields, power shop at specialty boutiques or be adventurous and fly in a hot air balloon.

If you are visiting from out of the area you can fly into one of the Washington, D.C., area s three airports. Generally, the best fares are available into Baltimore-Washington International (BWI) in suburban Maryland. However, the most convenient airport is Washington Dulles International (IAD) in suburban Virginia. Washington s third airport, Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), just minutes from the White House and the U.S. Capitol. Independence Air (Fly I) offers Virginia wine tour packages.

Virginia Wine Tour Itinerary
Day One - Virginia Wine Golden Triangle
Day Two - Wine Blue Ridge Wine Way
Day Three - Central Wine Trail
Day Four - Southwest Trail
Day Five - Shenandoah Wine Country

Day One
Smithfield Farm Bed & Breakfast welcomes you to the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley near Berryville, Virginia. The 1824 classic Federal style brick and stone manor house commands a majestic view of orchards and meadows, streams and forests. Inside, an elegant, sweeping staircase adds beauty to the grand hallway that is flanked by the parlor and dining rooms. An upstairs sitting area and three guestrooms offer a quiet, country respite. Our 350-acre working farm offers many ways to spend a pleasant evening. Phone: 540-955-4389.

Wine tour day one
A Virginia Golden Triangle Wine Tour.
Want to spend an afternoon in Virginia s wine country and select wines from three of the most unique Virginia wine regions during that single afternoon trip? Here is one tour that will give you variety in wine, scenery and vista s.

Taste Virginia’s most prestigious wine. Learn about Virginia wine with experts all in a single afternoon in Virginia s wine country golden triangle. Enter the world of Virginia wine as an insider. Travel the northern Virginia wine tour to the best Virginia wine businesses via the Virginia Wine Golden Triangle tour route. You can get an exclusive insider’s view that other tours cannot offer

Gain privileged access to the best Virginia Vineyards. From the prestigious classified growths to exclusive “boutique” producers, you will receive a warm welcome and a personalized tour and tasting. Each site visit is unique and fascinating, as you meet the passionate men and women who make some of the greatest Virginia wines.

THE Virginia Golden Triangle Wine Tour- quality wines from here just disappear; it would be easy to pass over this wine region, suspecting that it s just a bit of plank fun. And that would be a grave mistake as this is a cracker jack Virginia golden triangle region for some of the best Virginia wineries. Lip smacking, rich and intensely full flavored, it s a fruit driven wine style supported by subtle American and French oak. Excellent food friendly wines that are already drinking well and a list of International award winning wines.

This tour covers the Shenandoah (SWX) and Loudoun Valley as well as Blue Ridge Wineway wine regions. This is the one tour that focuses on high-end boutique wineries. This tour is known for being insightful, and memorable. Here is the ONE tour route that brings you all three regions in one afternoon tour - The Virginia Golden Triangle Wine Tour.

“We are more than a wine tour route location, we are wine geeks,” boasts Jim Bogaty, Founder, Veramar Vineyard. Both first time visitors and regular wine country patrons have delighted in this tour. Some have even gone so far as to say, “This tour far exceeded my expectations. It was like having a private wine class in wine country. Not only was the wine we tasted beyond words, the scenery on this trip was so extraordinary that it rivaled our experiences in Tuscany.”

THE VIRGINIA GOLDEN TRIANGLE WINE TOUR ROUTE

Stop 1- Veramar Vineyard

Veramar Vineyard is situated on a private, 100-acre estate in the heart of Virginia Hunt County at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains along the Shenandoah River. A small, family-run winery dedicated to producing naturally dry, full-bodied wines. Around Veramar Vineyard are a great number of bed-and breakfasts, championship golf courses and antique shops as well as some of the finest restaurants in Virginia. So, if you are in the mood for romance, or to enjoy fine wines, or simply want a picnic outing in the country, hike the Blue Ridge Mountain trails, come and be our guest as you experience Veramar Vineyard. Wines: Cabernet Franc, Rooster Red, Norton, Chardonnay, Tres Blanc, Seyval Blanc & D Ora. Hours: Year round. 11:30a.m. -5p.m. Thursday- Monday. Food: Light fare, i.e. cheese & crackers (Catering available for groups of 50 guests or more). 540-955-5510 www.veramar.com

Stop 2- Breaux Vineyards

You’re invited to come and enjoy the internationally acclaimed wines of Breaux Vineyards. Our “Napa meets Mediterranean” style tasting room offers views of the beautiful Blue Ridge and Short Hill Mountains. Enjoy light gourmet fare, or bring your own picnic to savor on our umbrella-covered tables at Patio Madeleine. Our winery and grounds, part of a magnificent 400-acre estate, are surrounded by 43 acres of vineyards including the original 16-year-old vines. Wines: Chardonnay, Seyval Blanc, Vidal Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier. Hours: 11a.m.-5p.m. daily. Closed major holidays. Tours & tasting: May-Oct. daily, 11a.m.-6p.m.; Nov.-April: daily, 11a.m.-5p.m. Closed major holidays. Groups please call ahead. LIMO Tasting Fees: $15/person.. Food: Light fare, i.e. cheese & crackers.

Stop 3 -Piedmont Vineyards
Virginia’s first commercial vinifera vineyard, located on the pre-revolutionary farm of Waverly in the heart of Virginia’s Hunt Country. Picnic area, private parties, wedding and reception facilities. Wines: Hunt Country Chardonnay, Special Reserve and Native Yeast Chardonnays, Semillon and Cabernet Sauvignon. Hours: Apr.-Oct., daily, 11a.m.-6p.m.; Nov.-Mar., daily, 11a.m.-5p.m. Closed Thanksgiving, Dec. 24, 25, 31 & New Year’s. Food: Light fare, i.e. cheese & crackers.

Dinner Village Square Restaurant
Village Square Restaurant Right in the heart of historic downtown Winchester, our restaurant flows out onto a pedestrian mall under a canopy of green shade trees. 540 667 8961 103 North Loudoun Street Winchester Virginia 22601
Day Two
Sunset Hills Farm Bed & Breakfast
Situated high on Jenkins Mountain in beautiful Rappahannock County, with magnificent views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Sunset Hills Farm is a secluded getaway for adult guests. Just minutes from wine trails, gourmet restaurants, antique shops, galleries and Skyline Drive, the visitor can enjoy the finer things or just stroll around the farm and pet the horses or watch for deer and bear dining on the fruit in the orchard. (800) 980-2580

Wine Tour Day two Blue Ridge Wine Way
Experience the way of wine. Experience the wine way trail with the Blue Ridge WineWay, an Alliance of the Premier Virginia wineries & vineyards just under an hour drive from our Nations Capitol! Our wine region makes for a perfect day trip, weekend escape, corporate outing and much more! For more information, call 1-800-820-1021 or explore our website here!

Stop 1 Rappahannock Cellars
Nestled in the heart of Virginia’s famous hunt country and Blue Ridge Mountains in Rappahannock County. Experience our family’s award-winning wines crafted primarily of Viognier, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. We grow nine varieties of wine grapes; each variety contributes to a broad palette of textures and flavors allowing our winemaker to create rich, supple, elegant wines reflecting our dedication to the winegrower’s art. We hope each visit to our tasting room, vineyard and winery is pleasant and memorable.

Stop 2 Linden Vineyards
Meticulously managed mountain vineyards yield complex wines with fresh, assertive aromas, concentrated flavors and personality. Specializing in small lots of single vineyard Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Bordeaux Red Blends

Stop 3 Pearmund Cellars
Located in beautiful foothills of eastern Fauquier County, conveniently close to Washington DC, one of Virginia’s top quality Chardonnay vineyards will be opening its doors of their new winery in July 2003. Family owned and operated. Premium wines to be produced will include Chardonnay, Viognier, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. Come taste, tour and picnic while surrounded by picturesque views and vineyard on a farm dating back to 1783. Lite fare will be available.

Dinner Griffin Tavern
Griffin Tavern is a casual, family dining restaurant with three dining rooms and wonderful outdoor seating. We also carry a variety of affordable wines. We are located at 659 Zachary Taylor Highway (522) in the wonderful village of Flint Hill, VA; just minutes from Skyline Drive and the Shenandoah Valley. Our beautiful, Victorian style building known to many as Chapalapa or the Bradford house was first a home in the late 1850’s. It has been added onto many times, but we hope this renovation, by the owners Jim and Debbie Donehey, will be its last! 540-675-3227
Day Three - Central Wine Trail

The Foxfield Inn is located in one of Charlottesville’s most picturesque country settings near Foxfield steeplechase track, yet only seven miles from downtown Charlottesville. The discriminating B&B Inn-goers and newcomers alike will find the experiences and romance of a country inn at the Foxfield Inn, from sipping fine Virginia wines upon your arrival to relaxing in our soothing hot tub and in-room Jacuzzis. The Inn is smoke-free and pet-free environment in all guest areas. The entire Inn is on one floor. (434)923-8892

Central wine trail
The wineries of the Monticello area fulfill a vision of Thomas Jefferson, whose aim was to produce exceptional quality wines like those he had tasted on his travels to Europe. Today, 500 acres of vitis vinifera vineyards surround Jefferson’s historic Monticello estate. In just over two decades, the wine industry in the Charlottesville area has flourished, achieving national acclaim.

Stop 1 Keswick Vineyards
Al and Cindy Schornberg chose the historic Edgewood estate near Charlottesville for their vineyard site, discovering that this unique terroir produces wines of exceptional quality. They also own the 20-year-old vineyard at Vinland estate in Keswick, which has arguably produced some of Virginia s finest Cabernet Sauvignon. Wine varieties also include Viognier, Chardonnay, Touriga, Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux blends.

Stop 2 Barboursville Vineyards
Established in 1976 by the largest family-held winemaking enterprise in Italy, headquartered in the Veneto since 1821, Barboursville Vineyards continues to demonstrate that Estate-bottled vitis vinifera wines, grown in Virginia, meet the highest international standards. The estate of the Governor of Virginia during the War of 1812, Barboursville is a uniquely welcoming destination, for its array of superb vintages, its casually elegant Palladio Restaurant, affiliated with the Chaine des Rotisseurs and the James Beard Foundation, and for its Landmark plantation Ruins, designed by Thomas Jefferson, set within an expansive, serene private park.

Stop 3 Prince Michel & Rapidan River
Prince Michel offers an extensive wine museum and self-guided tour of production facility. Follow tour with a stop at the tasting bar and gift shop. Restaurant and suites on premises. Hours: Museum & Wine shop hours: 10am-5pm daily except major holidays. Tour Fees: none. Tasting Fees: 6 wines of your choice-$2/person.

Stop 4 White Hall Vineyards
White Hall Vineyards is a farm winery located just 13 miles from historic Charlottesville, Virginia. At an elevation of 800 feet, the winery has lovely grounds, a pleasantly shaded picnic area, and spectacular views of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. White Hall’s winemaking philosophy is that “great wines are made from the careful handling of great fruit.” Combining attentive vineyard practices with modern winemaking techniques has resulted in the consistent production of wines of excellence. White Hall’s wines have won numerous awards across the nation for their fine quality, and White Hall is quickly becoming recognized as one of the premier wineries in central Virginia.

Stop 5 King Family Vineyards
Located 15 minutes west of Charlottesville and two minutes off I-64 at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Indoor and outdoor seating is available for groups or private parties. We offer the perfect setting for special events and private functions.

Dinner OXO
Everything up front at OXO smacks of elegance the sheer open space of it, the snowy white linens, the plush back pillows in rich chocolate brown, outrageously beautiful sounding entrees that come in threes, like lobster bisque, lobster risotto, and lobster crepe, and special occasion wine flights. (434) 977-8111

Day Four - Southwest Trail
Mountain Rose Inn Enjoy the perfect romantic getaway as you step back in time. Nestled along the banks of the Rock Castle Creek in Woolwine, Virginia, the Mountain Rose Bed and Breakfast Inn offers historical country elegance within the shadows of the Blue Ridge Mountains. 276-930-1057

Wine Tour Day four Southwest Trail

Stop 1 Chateau Morrisette
Chateau Morrisette located in a spectacular mountain setting in Floyd County off the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway between mileposts 171 and 172. The winery and gift shop are open seven days, Monday-Thursday 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Friday-Saturday 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. and Sunday 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. The restaurant serves lunch Wednesday-Saturday 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., Sunday lunch/brunch from 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. and dinner Friday-Saturday 6:00-9:00 p.m.

Stop 2 Valhalla
Valhalla was conceived as a vineyard and winery to allow us to strive for perfection. Is there an endpoint? We don t believe so. With each new vintage, there is something new to discover, learn and improve. Many of you, our friends and customers, helped us plant our vines or were with us to harvest the first fruit. For the rest, come along for the ride as Valhalla continues on the road to world class wine.
Dinner Montano’s International Gourmet
Montano’s is a great restaurant with a variety of gourmet food products and wine that customers can purchase. They offer a nice variety of vegetarian dishes and their salads and desserts are outstanding. The tiramisu is heavenly! 3733 Franklin Road, Roanoke 540-344-8960

Day Five - Shenandoah Wine Country (SWX)

Day Five
The Lost Dog is a casual, fun, romantic B&B with yummy breakfasts and beautiful rooms. We invite you to return to the gracious hospitality of yesteryear without leaving today’s conveniences and comforts! Enjoy private renovated baths, a whirlpool tub, an outdoor spa, fireplaces and guest rooms with phones, TV/VCRs and Wi-Fi, high speed wireless internet access for your laptop. 211 South Church Street Shenandoah Valley, Berryville (540) 955-1181

Shenandoah Wine Country Trail ( SWX)
Oh Shenandoah! Virginia s Shenandoah Wine Country (SWX) welcomes visitors with exciting things to see and do: Wine Tours & Tasting, Civil War battlefields, Caverns, antiques, Antebellum Plantations with unique Inns, B&B s and Restaurants. This historic valley is tucked between the Blue Ridge Mountains on the east and the Allegheny Mountains to the west from the West Virginia line in the north to the James River in the south. The Shenandoah Wine Country (SWX) Trail from the north begins at Veramar Vineyard, and then meanders to Deer Meadows, North Mountain and Shenandoah Vineyards most within a half hour of each other along interstate 81. En route, you’ll pass by thoroughbred horse farms, dairies, orchards, woodlands, Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains and along the Shenandoah River that will transport you to an earlier, simpler time. In addition, there is Civil War Battlefields, Berryville, Winchester, Cedar Creek, Cool Springs, New Market, as well as the fabled Sky Line Drive and Shenandoah Caverns.

Stop 1- Veramar Vineyard

Veramar Vineyard is situated on a private, 100-acre estate in the heart of Virginia Hunt County at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains along the Shenandoah River. A small, family-run winery dedicated to producing naturally dry, full-bodied wines. Around Veramar Vineyard are a great number of bed-and breakfasts, championship golf courses and antique shops as well as some of the finest restaurants in Virginia. So, if you are in the mood for romance, or to enjoy fine wines, or simply want a picnic outing in the country, hike the Blue Ridge Mountain trails, come and be our guest as you experience Veramar Vineyard. Wines: Cabernet Franc, Rooster Red, Norton, Chardonnay, Tres Blanc, Seyval Blanc & D Ora. Hours: Year round. 11:30a.m. -5p.m. Thursday- Monday. Food: Light fare, i.e. cheese & crackers (Catering available for groups of 50 guests or more). 540-955-5510 www.veramar.com

Stop 2 North Mountian Vineyard
North Mountain, just a few miles away. The 1864 Civil War action at Toms Brook swept across the winery s fields, and every April a living history encampment is set up to reenact the battle. The winery released its first vintage in 1986. Owners Brad Foster, Krista Jackson-Foster, and son John Jackson produce a Vidal Blanc, Chardonnay, Claret, Chambourcin, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as several specialty wines.

Stop 3 Shenandoah Vineyards
Shenandoah Vineyards the state s fourth oldest winery located between Winchester and Harrisonburg but closer to Edinburg and Woodstock. In 1976, owner Emma Randel and her late husband, Jim, planted 5,000 vines on property that had been in her mother s family since the mid-1800s. Current winemaker Frederick Burroughs, who has been with Shenandoah for eight years, produces wines in the handcrafted Old-World style with a nod to the new. These include Chardonnay, Founders Reserve Chardonnay and Chambourcin, Cabernet Sauvignon, Johannisberg Riesling, Shenandoah Blanc, and a few aperitif and dessert wines.

Dinner VIOLINOS RISTORANTE ITALIANO
I have always had the best experience when visiting Violinos, it is probably the best place to eat for Italian food in Winchester, to add to that I have never heard anything but the best of the restaurant. A must do for anyone in the Winchester area. VIOLINOS RISTORANTE

Where Is It & How To Get There Virginia Beach is on the Atlantic coast in the south of Virginia, just north of the North Carolina border and a short distance from Norfolk and Chesapeake.

Driving To drive there, the easiest routes from the west are Interstate 64, U.S. 460 or U.S. 58. If you’re coming from the north Interstate 95 or US 13 and from the south, Interstates 85 or 95 and U.S. 17. These Interstates connect to Interstate 64, which links through to the Virginia Beach-Norfolk Expressway, Interstate 264. This will take you directly to the Virginia Beach beachfront.

Flying Norfolk International Airport is the gateway to Virginia Beach and an easy 30-minute drive. There are more than 200 daily connecting flights from major hubs and cities.

The Climate & Weather The best beach months are June through September when the average temperatures are pleasantly high.

Jun Air 74 Water 67

Jul Air 79 Water 73

Aug Air 78 Water 76

Sep Air 79 Water 73

Through Dec, Jan and Feb the average air temperatures are 43, 40 and 41 respectively.

The Beach The main part of the beach is approximately 10 miles long and faces slightly north of due east straight out into the Atlantic ocean. It runs from North Virginia Beach past Virginia Beach itself and then onto Sandbridge Beach, which is about 10 miles south of Virginia Beach. If you keep heading south, you come to the Back Bay wildlife refuge about another 12 miles further south of Sandbridge Beach.

Accommodation If you want a room with an ocean view, the oceanfront streets are Atlantic Ave in Virginia Beach itself which becomes Oceanfront Ave as you head north. Pacific Ave is the next street back from the Atlantic Ave i.e.one block back from the oceanfront. There are also several creeks and lakes a short distance inland. There is a wide choice of hotels including:

Best Western Oceanfront

1101 Atlantic Avenue

Best Western Beach Quarters Inn

301 Atlantic Avenue

Clarion Resort & Conference Center

501 Atlantic Avenue

Colonial Inn

2809 Atlantic Avenue

Comfort Inn

2015 Atlantic Avenue

Courtyard by Marriott North

3737 Atlantic Avenue

Courtyard Virginia Beach Oceanfront

2501 Atlantic Avenue

Days Inn

Oceanfront & 32nd Street

Days Inn at the Beach

1000 Atlantic Avenue

Econo Lodge

2109 Atlantic Avenue

Econo Lodge on the Ocean

2707 Atlantic Avenue

Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort

3900 Atlantic Avenue

Howard Johnson Hotel

1801 Atlantic Avenue,

Quality Inn & Suites

705 Atlantic Avenue

Ramada Inn on the Beach

615 Atlantic Avenue

Ramada Limited Atlantic Avenue

3108 Atlantic Avenue

Ramada Plaza Resort

57th & Oceanfront

Best Western Oceanfront

1101 Atlantic Avenue

Best Western Beach Quarters Inn

301 Atlantic Avenue

Clarion Resort & Conference Center

501 Atlantic Avenue

Colonial Inn

2809 Atlantic Avenue

Comfort Inn

2015 Atlantic Avenue

Courtyard by Marriott North

3737 Atlantic Avenue

Courtyard Virginia Beach Oceanfront

2501 Atlantic Avenue

Days Inn

Oceanfront & 32nd Street

Days Inn at the Beach

1000 Atlantic Avenue

Econo Lodge

2109 Atlantic Avenue

Econo Lodge on the Ocean

2707 Atlantic Avenue

Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort

3900 Atlantic Avenue

Howard Johnson Hotel

1801 Atlantic Avenue

Quality Inn & Suite

705 Atlantic Avenue

Ramada Inn on the Beach

615 Atlantic Avenue

Ramada Limited Atlantic Avenue

3108 Atlantic Avenue

Ramada Plaza Resort

57th & Oceanfront

Sheraton Hotel

Oceanfront & 36th Street

Thunderbird Motor Lodge

3410 Atlantic Avenue

Turtle Cay Resort

600 Atlantic Avenue

Main Attractions & Things To Do There are several Amusement Parks including Paramount Kings Dominion, Busch Gardens and Ocean Breeze Water Park.

Museums include the Virginia Marine Science Museum, the Children’s Museum of Virginia and The Mariners’ Museum. Other attractions are the Virginia Zoological, Motorworld, Beach Street USA and whale and dolphin watching.

About the author:

Chris Galloway is a life-long beach lover, from the North Sea to the Mediterranean, from the West Indies to Australia and New Zealand. Read about his favourite beach vacation destinations at http://www.beachvacationportal.com

Starting in the 70’s, this Mediterranean city began hosting important congresses, now even better equipped with the new vanguard Music Auditorium and Congress hall built in 1988 in the old river-bed of the Turia River. A little further down the river-bed, you will find an impressive group of four white modern buildings, each one offering beauty to the eyes from the outside and an eye-opening experience on the inside. This is the biggest cultural free time resort within a city in all Europe.

The City of the Arts and Science consists of:

1.The Oceanographic Park A spectacular revelation of the different phases of marine life, bringing what was once far away and unknown, close to the human eye.

2.Hemispheric Planetarium Brought about so that once again, the spectator can experiment for themselves the attractive sensations of what space is all about. Through the most modern technology with Imax cinemas and laser shows, you are brought so close to outer space through impacting images and sounds.

3.The Prince Philip Science Museum This was designed to house permanent science theme related expositions and modern technology.

4.The Arts Palace This building will soon be completed and will be destined to the creation and diffusion of the scenic arts.

Heaps of fun for everyone in Valencia

There are so many other attractions for everyone’s likings, all located inside the city centre and very easy to get to by bus, metro or car hire, such as the IVAM ( Valencian Institute of Modern Art ), Guillen de Castro Street no. 118, open Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. It usually costs 2 euros but Sundays and holidays are free. The Palace of the Marquee of Dos Aguas, found in a beautifully decorated alabaster building on the outside and typical Valencian ceramic and horse carriages on the inside. It is found on Poeta Querol Street no. 2, open Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10 to 2, from 4 to 8 but Sundays and holidays only from 10 to 2. Saturday afternoons and Sunday mornings it is free and on the other days it costs 2.50 euros. But do not stop here, visit one of the many tourist offices within the city centre and get free information and timetable for all.

Las Fallas, the most popular street celebration in Valencia dating back to the 16th century is quite an event. It is celebrated from March 15th to 19th, where during five long days and nights you can enjoy seeing over 350 huge carton monuments on almost every corner, religious parades made up of the local lads and lassies dressed in beautiful brocade vestiments, offering bouquets of flowers to the Virgen Mary. All this can be seen in and around the Basilica Square where the flowers are artistically made into the Virgen’s cape, with the baby Jesus held in her arms. But if you could not plan your visit or flight for these days, there is a fantastic Fallas Museum in the Monteolivete Square no. 4 which is the home of the most voted figures which have been saved from being burnt, which is the highlight of this celebration.

Valencia, Spain and its sea adventure

All that has been mentioned before has been and will continue to be part of this city’s life for a long time, but the Americas Cup 2007, the most important yachting and sailing event in the world will only happen once. So if you are still planning some fantastic vacations and want a lot of new thrills, catch a flight to Valencia and book your hotel early to make sure that your holidays will be smooth sailing!
About the Author

The freelance writer R. Carlten distributed a lot of articles for http://www.valencia-information.com an online source of information. Robert is mostly focusing on travel advice around the City of Valencia and the spanish costal areas around.