Boundless Journeys 2008 Summer Vacations
May 13, 2008 on 9:09 am | In Adventure Travel, Alaska, Alberta, British Columbia, Cabinweb, California, Canada, Europe, France, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Labrador, Manitoba, Midwest, NWT, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Ontario, Outdoors, PEI, Paris, Plains States, Quebec, Rockies, Rome, Saskatchewan, Southwest, Spain, Switzerland, Toronto, Yukon | Comments Off
Plenty of Adventure to be had in North America and Abroad
STOWE, Vt—Adventure tour company Boundless Journeys has announced its summer adventure schedule for 2008. From classic North American hiking and sea kayaking adventures, to authentic cultural walking and hiking tours in Europe and beyond, Boundless Journeys’ active trips offer something for everyone:
Classic North American Adventures:
Alaska: Kenai Explorer
June 22-28, July 13-19, August 17-23; 7 days; $2995 per person
This Alaskan adventure includes scenic hiking, cruising the magnificent Kenai Fjords National Park, witnessing calving glaciers, and sea kayaking in Kachemak Bay in search of orcas and bald eagles.
Canadian Rockies: Mountain Paths of Banff & Yoho
July 6-10, August 3-7, August 30-September 3; 5 days; $2195 per person
Guests hike on trails that lead to classic Rocky Mountain vistas and offer glimpses of the diverse resident wildlife, including moose, elk, bighorn sheep, and bear. Each day, expert local guides uncover the secrets of this inspiring natural realm. In the evenings, return to scenic accommodations and relive the day’s adventures over well-earned meals.
Other destinations available in North America: Olympic Peninsula, Vancouver Island, and Utah & Arizona.
Cultural walking and hiking in Europe:
Iceland: The Land of Fire and Ice
July 13-20, August 17-24; 8 days; $5395 per person
Iceland is a land of contrasts ? vast lava fields are interrupted by lush moss-carpeted valleys. Giant waterfalls give way to vibrant rhyolite mountains in the highlands. For the past 1,000 years, descendants of the Norse settlers have carved a tough existence from this unforgiving but beautiful land. Boundless Journeys’ guests spend days exploring the dramatic and other-worldly southern coast and beautiful Snaefellsnes Peninsula, home to Iceland’s most captivating glacier.
Ireland: Gems of the Emerald Isle
June 8-15, July 13-20, August 16-23; 8 days; $3495 per person
For hundreds of years, the countryside of Ireland has inspired bards, musicians, and artists. You too will be swept away by the beauty of the landscape and the warmth and wit of the Irish people. Boundless Journeys’ guests spend their days walking and hiking the lush, forested valleys of the Ring of Kerry, the wild green hills of the Dingle Peninsula, and the surreal limestone paths of the Burren.
France, Italy, Switzerland: Tour du Mont Blanc
July 19-27; 9 days; $3295 per person
The classic Tour du Mont Blanc, around western Europe’s highest mountain, is the perfect mix of awe-inspiring mountain views and the vibrant influence of three distinct European countries — France, Italy and Switzerland. Expert guides lead the way from the French resort town of Chamonix, to the medieval city of Courmayeur, Italy, to quaint alpine villages in Switzerland.
Other destinations available in Europe: Tuscany & Umbria, Spain’s Rioja Region, and Sicily.
New Flights to Britain 2008
May 13, 2008 on 9:03 am | In Airlines, Belgium, California, Chicago, Czech, Denmark, East Coast, Europe, Finland, Florida, France, Germany, Great Lakes, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Lichtenstein, London, Los Angeles, Luxwmbourg, Miami, Midwest, Monaco, Netherlands, New England, New York City, Norway, Pacific Northwest, Paris, Plains States, Poland, Portugal, Rockies, Rome, San Diego, San Francisco, Scotland, Slovakia, Southwest, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Texas, The South, United Kingdom, Wales, Yugoslavia | Comments Off
A number of airlines are launching new routes to Britain from the US in spring 2008. American Airlines is doubling frequency on their route into London Stansted Airport. US Airways, Northwest Airlines, Air France, Continental Airlines and United Airlines are all launching new services into London Heathrow Airport. And Zoom Airlines is launching new seasonal routes to London Gatwick from San Diego and Fort Lauderdale.
The Open Skies agreement enables more airlines to fly into London Heathrow Airport and, at the same time, London’s third and fourth most popular airports – London Stansted and London Luton – are becoming popular with transatlantic services.
American Airlines are flying into London Stansted Airport daily from New York JFK; and this increases to twice daily from August 1, 2008. London Stansted is especially convenient for the city’s financial and business districts, and the East End, with the Stansted Express train service taking just 45 minutes from the airport to Liverpool Street Station.
US Airways begins service from Philadelphia to London Heathrow Airport from March 29, 2008. The airline will operate their flagship international aircraft, the Airbus A330, offering 29 Envoy and 259 economy seats on flights departing daily at 10.45pm, arriving at Heathrow at 11.05am the next day. Return flights depart Heathrow at 12.50pm, arriving in Philadelphia at 4pm the same day. US Airways serves 19 million customers annually at its Philadelphia hub, from where it already operates daily flights to Manchester and Glasgow (seasonal).
Northwest Airlines will launch daily flights from three US cities to London Heathrow Airport in spring 2008. Minneapolis to London commences March 29, 2008; Detroit to London commences May 1, 2008; Seattle to London commences June 1, 2008. In addition to the flights from Detroit to London Heathrow, Northwest will continue to operate daily flights between Detroit and London Gatwick Airport. The new service from Minneapolis to London Heathrow will replace the airline’s current service to London Gatwick. Northwest Airlines operate a new fleet of A330 aircraft and premier World Business class service. Their hubs in Detroit and Minneapolis/St. Paul offer easy connections from across the US.
Air France begins daily service from Los Angeles to London Heathrow Airport from March 30, 2008. The flight departs Los Angeles at 8.25pm, arriving in London at 2.40pm the next day. The return flight departs London at 5pm and arrives back in Los Angeles at 8.15pm. It will be operated with Boeing 777 aircraft.
Air France has a joint venture agreement with US carrier Delta Airlines. Therefore, they also sell tickets on 10 code-share direct flights between the US and Britain commencing March 30, 2008…
Delta Airlines operates:
Daily flights: Atlanta to London Heathrow; Atlanta to Manchester; New York JFK to Manchester; New York JFK to Edinburgh; New York JFK to London Gatwick; Cincinnati to London Gatwick.
Twice-daily flights: New York JFK to London Heathrow; Atlanta to London Gatwick.
United Airlines launches new nonstop service between Denver and London Heathrow on March 30, 2008. Their Denver hub will serve as a gateway to London, and the new route enables their customers to fly nonstop to London Heathrow from any of United’s five hubs. United will operate the flight using a Boeing 777 aircraft configured with 12 “United First Suite” seats, 49 United Business seats and 197 United Economy class seats, including 83 Economy Plus seats.
Zoom Airlines, who already operate low-fare transatlantic flights from New York JFK to London Gatwick, are to launch two new seasonal routes. From June 20, they will fly twice-weekly flights from San Diego to London Gatwick Airport, departing Mondays and Fridays at 4.35pm, and arriving in London at 11.05am the following day; return flights will depart from London at 11.30am on Mondays and Fridays, arriving in San Diego at 2.50pm the same day. From May 22, 2008, the airline will fly twice-weekly flights from Fort Lauderdale to London Gatwick Airport.
Continental Airlines are launching new twice-daily flights from its hubs in Newark (New York) and Houston to London Heathrow Airport from March 29, 2008. London Heathrow will be the eighth UK airport to be served by Continental. Flights from Newark will depart at 9am (arriving in London at 9.15pm the same day) and at 6.40pm (arriving in London at 6.45am the next day). Return flights from London Heathrow depart at 10.25am and 4pm. Flights from Houston will depart at 6.25pm and 10.25pm, arriving in London at 9.35am and 2.05pm respectively; return flights from London to Houston depart at 8.30am and 11.15am.
Epoque Hotels Discount Program in Europe
May 12, 2008 on 9:03 am | In Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech, Denmark, Estonia, Europe, Finland, France, Gaming Resorts, Germany, Golf Resorts, Greece, Hotels, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lichtenstein, Lithuania, London, Luxwmbourg, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Paris, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Rome, Russia, Scotland, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Wales, Yugoslavia | Comments Off
Epoque Hotels is introducing “Go Europe,” a summer 2008 promotion tailored to Americans seeking a European holiday. Travelers need to book beginning now and through June 30 for a vacation that takes place during the July 1 through Aug. 31 timeframe.
Participants in the promotion will receive 25 percent off the best available room rates at select Epoque Hotel Pan European properties. To illustrate the value of “Go Europe,” consider that a one-night stay at the Duquesa de Cardona hotel in Barcelona may cost 265 euros ($416). With the discount, the nightly rate is reduced to $312. A two-night minimum stay is required; restrictions and cancellation policies vary per property.
Participating hotels include the Duquesa de Cardona and Grand Hotel Central in Barcelona; the EME Hotel and Inglaterra Hotel in Seville; De Las Letras in Madrid; Hotel Miro in Bilboa; UNA Bologna in Bologna; UNA Hotels Tocq in Milan; Palazzo Viviani Montegridolfo in Rimini; Una Vittoria in Florence; Sofa Hotels and Bentley Hotel in Istanbul; Ventana Hotel, Maximilen Hotel and Josef Hotel in Prague; and 27 Hotel in Copenhagen.
Call 866-376-7831 or visit www.epoquehotels.com
Great Canadian Travel Company Greenland Program
May 12, 2008 on 8:27 am | In Adventure Travel, Cabinweb, Canada, Iceland, Labrador, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Outdoors, PEI, Quebec, Toronto | Comments Off
The Great Canadian Travel Company is offering a new tour program to Greenland. Participants will join environmentalist David Hatch on an eight-day Greenland Climate & Culture Tour, an exclusive travel program that enables participants to study two communities in Kangerlussuaq and Ilulissat.
An early-morning flight takes you to Ilulissat for a five-night stay at the Hotel Arctic. On a guided walk through the town-third-largest in Greenland, with more than 4,500 inhabitants, founded in 1741-you’ll learn about local history and culture in the community. You’ll visit fishermen at the harbor and the hunters at their trading posts-as well as the church and the house where famous polar explorer Knud Rasmussen was born. The program operates Aug. 15 to 21, 2008.
Priced from $3,989 per person (land only, based on double occupancy), plus $1,700 round-trip airfare Copenhagen/ Kangerlussuaq, this tour includes round-trip airfare Kangerlussuaq to Ilulissat, one nights’ accommodations at Kangerlussuaq, five nights’ accommodations at Ilulissat, breakfast daily and two dinners in Ilulissat.
Also included are local transfers in Ilulissat, musk oxen photo safari, city walk, sled dog life tour, Oqaatsut boat tour with lunch and Eqi boat tour with lunch. Round-trip airfare between U.S. departure city and Copenhagen is additional.
For more information, call 800-661-3830 or visit www.greatcanadiantravel.com
Auto Europe Early Booking Savings
May 12, 2008 on 7:15 am | In Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech, Denmark, Estonia, Europe, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lichtenstein, Lithuania, London, Luxwmbourg, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Paris, Poland, Portugal, Road Trips, Romania, Rome, Russia, Scotland, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Wales, Yugoslavia | Comments OffAuto Europe’s early booking savings for travel to Europe will expire April 28. The offers include a guaranteed free one-car class upgrade on various car classes in select European countries. For example, in Ireland, reserve a Ford Fiesta or similar, normally $74 per week and receive a guaranteed free upgrade to a manual transmission Ford Focus or similar, normally $88 per week.
Reserve the manual transmission Ford Focus or similar at $88 per week and receive a guaranteed free upgrade to a manual transmission VW Golf, normally $95 per week. Reserve the VW Golf at $95 per week and receive a free upgrade to a Toyota Corolla or similar, manual transmission, normally $104 per week. Reserve the Toyota Corolla at $104 per week and receive the Opel Vectra or similar, manual transmission, normally $149 per week. Upgrades are also available in Belgium, Germany, Italy, Israel and Spain.
In addition, travelers will receive up to 15 percent off any prestige, Mercedes Benz or sports car rental in Europe and up to 6 percent off any European car rental service at any of the 4,000 locations they service. Savings have never been greater for Ireland with car rental rates beginning at $9.99 per day. Auto Europe’s tour division, Destination Europe is offering Spring Fly/Drive packages to Europe beginning at $537 per person and Spring Air / Hotel packages from $649 per person.
All discount offers are valid for reservations made now through April 30, for travel through Dec. 31. Upgrade offer validity dates, available locations and applicable car categories vary depending upon rental location and are available in select European countries only. Ireland rate shown based upon a basic weekly rate for an economy class. The ates shown subject to change without notice. All discount offers apply to time and mileage only.
Offers cannot be combined with any other promotion or discount and are subject to change without notice. Additional restrictions apply. Airfare is subject to availability and fares are subject to change without notice. Auto Europe services over 4,000 car rental locations worldwide. In addition, through their tour division, Destination Europe they offer scheduled airfare to Europe with over thirty carriers and service 3, 4 & 5 star worldwide hotels.
Independent Boating Vacations for European Cuisine
May 7, 2008 on 8:03 am | In Adventure Travel, Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Crete, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech, Denmark, Estonia, Europe, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lichtenstein, Lithuania, London, Luxwmbourg, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Outdoors, Paris, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Rome, Russia, Scotland, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Wales | Comments Off
European Boating Holidays (EBH) offers a unique way for independent-minded travelers to savor the pleasures of Europe and its cuisine without the constraints of a rigid itinerary or schedule. Traveling on their own private EBH boat on the extensive network of historic canals, rivers and lakes of Europe, vacationers can savor the life, culture and sights of great destinations as they enjoy great food — at an easy pace that allows time toappreciate each sensation.
EBH operates a fleet of 400 easy-to-drive boats in two distinct styles – traditionally elegant Locaboat Penichettes and luxuriously contemporary Cardinal Europas – in sizes to accommodate from two to 12 travelers. With 28 EBH bases in France, Germany, Holland, Ireland, Italy and Poland, serving as starting points for hundreds of possible itineraries, vacation travelers have the freedom to create their own custom experience to discover culinary delights in the out-of-the-way places known well by Europeans but rarely experienced by tourists from North America. And the fully equipped kitchen onboard each
EBH boat allows them to try their hands at preparing newly discovered dishes themselves using fresh ingredients purchased at local markets.
The possibilities are virtually endless. France, of course, defines the essence of fine cuisine and wines for gourmands throughout the world, and EBH operates bases for independent cruises of culinary discovery throughout the country. But each of the regions and countries of Europe has much to offer — from hearty sausages and stews to delightful vegetable dishes and enticing casseroles — for culinary explorers, and the best can be found along the waterways that connect the great cities, towns and villages of the Continent. Here are just a few samples of the varieties of experiences available:
• Those who appreciate great cheeses can enjoy the best of the great cheese-making centers of Holland and France at their source, purchasing their favorites and discovering new varieties at the many local markets in communities along the inland waterways. Add fresh fruits and breads and local wines and beer to the mix and enjoy them on the open deck of a private boat cruising through a scenic countryside for an unforgettable experience.
• Germany is rightly famous for its beers, but brewers in France, Holland, Ireland, Italy and Poland stake their own claims for outstanding examples of their art. Beer connoisseurs will find the freshest and finest examples from local breweries to stock their boats and enjoy at their leisure as they journey on the waterways through some of the world’s greatest beer-making regions.
• For those who appreciate freshly caught and perfectly prepared fish and other delicacies from the sea and fresh-water lakes and streams, the waters of Germany’s Mecklenburg region, Brittany and the Midi in France, Ireland’s lakes and Shannon River, Holland, Venice, and the Mazurian Lakes of Poland provide some of the world’s best. And traveling by boat through several of these areas offers EBH vacationers the chance to catch their own and prepare them onboard.
• Wine lovers will immediately recognize the names of many regions
available for EBH independent boating adventures — Burgundy, Charente, Alsace-Lorraine, the Loire Valley. Sophisticated travelers, though, will find much to discover in the winemaking Traditions of each of the countries of Europe from vintners touched by the waterways where EBH are located.
These are only a representative sampling of the many ways to enjoy the unique pleasures and freedom of an EBH vacation in Europe and pursue a variety of personal interests and hobbies, including great cuisine. To custom-design their own European boating experience – and learn about the latest promotional offers – anyone considering a trip to Europe can call on Diane Brenner for expert advice by calling toll-free to 866-606-5278.
For additional information about European Boating Holidays, Locaboat Holidays or Cardinal Boating Holidays, consumers and travel professionals in North American can call Diane Brenner, European Boating Holidays – North America, (866) 606-5278 or by e-mail, eurobh@roadrunner.com or visit the EBH Web site at www.europeanboatingholidays.co.uk
Europe Gardens and Castles
May 7, 2008 on 7:30 am | In Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Crete, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech, Denmark, Estonia, Europe, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lichtenstein, Lithuania, London, Luxwmbourg, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Outdoors, Paris, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Rome, Russia, Scotland, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Wales, Yugoslavia | Comments Off
Italian Park
Head to Italy for a peek at one of the five most beautiful gardens in the world – the Sigurtà gardens.
The splendor of the Sigurtà gardens stems from the loving care and hard work of Carlo Sigurtà and his grandson Enzo. The park opened its gates to the public in 1978, and each year offers visitors free events, from art exhibitions to concerts, wine tasting to craft fairs. The park also has a seasonal calendar for the blooming of irises, lilies, tulips, roses, water lilies and asters along with many other species which take place one after the other along the Viale delle Fontanelle and the Viale delle Rose, with the charming Scaligerian Castle as the background.
To learn more, visit www.sigurta.it
Czech Beauty
Indulge in the tranquility, beauty and harmony of the Flora Olomouc Exhibition in the Czech Republic.
The Czech Republic’s beauty is proudly on display at the Flora Olomouc Exhibition Grounds, featuring dozens of exhibitions throughout the year and the 116 acres of Olomouc parks including Smetana, Čech, and Bezruč Gardens. Located within the Exhibition Grounds is a botanical garden area that consists of the Alpine garden and Rosarium – a non-traditional 8.5 acre rose garden with large trees and bushes that create an architectural background for the flowers.
Fifteen-thousand bushes of more than 300 local and foreign varieties are planted in geometrical shapes throughout the grounds, and the greenhouses showcase large aquariums and terrariums with a range of alligators, snakes, piranhas and spiders. The most interesting feature of the gardens is the palm conservatory, which, together with the Smetana and Bezruč Gardens, belong among the Czech Republic’s most beautiful gardens.
For more information, visit www.flora-ol.cz.
Belgian Castles
Get lost in the splendor of the formal gardens at one of the many beautiful castles in Belgium.
While in Belgium, the gardens of Annevoie Castle are an absolute must see. Designed and laid out between 1758 and 1776 by Charles-Alexis de Montpellier, the castle and gardens are an authentic historical record, and above all a living work of art. Over twenty ornamental lakes and ponds fed by some fifty water jets, fountains and cascades make up the gardens, which are a unique spectacle, open daily from 9:30-5:30 pm except during July and August when they are open until 6:30 pm.
For more information on Belgian gardens, go to www.visitbelgium.com
Retreat to Britain for your next getaway and enjoy the peace and quiet of their many gardens.
Britain is home to a plethora of garden choices, with everything from botanic to herb gardens. For something a little different, check out one of Britain’s water gardens, which include gorgeous water displays, ornamental lakes, canals and cascades – many of them surrounded by beautiful flowers and foliage. There are also cottage gardens and maze gardens, in which being lost has never been so beautiful. Alternatively, visit an oriental garden, where the calming influence of the Eastern religions is the root of inspiration.
For more information, go to www.visitbritain.us
Admire the flowers and colors of spring at Keukenhof and relax in the beautiful surroundings of the park.
Keukenhof is an unforgettable experience and the best place to get a taste of spring. Seven million bulbs are planted every year, making it a glorious visual feast and an exciting destination for visitors from all over the world. Several parts of the park have been redesigned in the last few years, and in 2008 many of the activities will focus on the theme of China to celebrate this year’s Olympic games. Highlights will be a dragon mosaic with Chinese figures, a Chinese garden, Olympic exhibitions and Chinese cultural events. Check it out soon though, as the park is only open until May 18th, 8am until 7.30pm.
For more information, visit www.keukenhof.nl
Croatian Flowers
Visit one of the many Croatian towns whose beautiful gardens date back to the 18th and 19th centuries.
Check out Opatija, a popular European aristocracy resort famous for its lush gardens and parks, or head to the country’s capital, Zagreb, known for its abundance of gardens. Every spring, the International Flower & Garden Exhibition, called Floraart, attracts many foreign and domestic exhibitors with its colorful horticultural spectacle. Dubrovnik is also rich with gardens dating back several centuries, and many palaces that have gardens open to the public. Relax and enjoy the clean Mediterranean air while you take in the beautiful flowers and plants.
For more information, visit www.croatia.hr
Relax in Monaco
Find the enchantment and serenity that reigns in Monaco’s gardens.
Delighting all of the senses, the spectacular gardens of Monaco offer everything from lush, flowering rose bushes and exotic cacti to serene Japanese landscapes. Unique plants of native and foreign origin dot the Principality, from the Casino terraces to the median strips along the esplanades, in a panorama of carefully tended and stunning displays. Head to any one of their many gardens including the Princess Grace Rose Garden, the Exotic Gardens, the Japanese Gardens, the Saint-Martin Gardens, or the Tea House Gate – all of which offer the ultimate in beauty and tranquility.
For more details, go to www.visitmonaco.com
Breathtaking Finland
Take an exhilarating trip to Finland and enjoy breathtaking gardens everywhere you look.
Among the gardening highlight in Helsinki is the Winter Garden, which opened to the public in October 1893. It offers visitors an esthetically beautiful oasis of exotic plants, including the camellia trees – over 100 years old – which only bloom during the darkest time of the year. Another must-see is the University Botanical Garden in Kaisaniemi. This garden, part of the Finnish Museum of National History, has labeled samples of 1,000 exotic plants and samples of 3,000 native and foreign species. Other gardens also worth checking out are the gardens in Porvoo and Turku – the Sapokka Water Park, Commandant’s Garden, the Allotment Gardens and the Presidential Gardens.
To learn more, go to www.visitfinland.com
Historical Malta
Visit the gardens of the Maltese Islands, which make up for what they lack in size with rich historical and cultural content.
Check out the flagship of all gardens, the San Anton Gardens in Attard, built by Grand Master Antoine de Paul in 1623. For breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour and the fortifications built by the Knights of Malta, visit the two Barrakkas in Valletta. Then, head to Sa Maison gardens, overlooking the equally impressive Marsamxetto Harbour. The gardens were once used by the British Military as their vantage position for defence purposes, leaving behind remnants of their presence by sculpting various coats of arms in the rock face of the bastions. Other equally important historical gardens include Argotti Garden, St. Philip in Floriana, Hastings in Valletta, Palazzo Parisio in Naxxar and several others, to be found in outlying areas.
For more information, go to www.visitmalta.com
Slovenian Floral Escape
Escape to the oases of Slovenia’s gardens, the perfect way to de-stress and relax.
Slovenia has a number of gardens, with the Botanical Garden of Ljubljana and the Arboretum Volčji Potok the largest. The Botanical Garden of Ljubljana, established in 1810, is the oldest cultural, scientific and educational institution in Slovenia. The Volčji Potok arboretum, dating back to 1952, has become famous for its spring flower shows, as visitors from all parts of the country and abroad visit to see the millions of daffodils, tulips and other spring flowers. Nature lovers should also be sure to check out the Juliana Alpine Botanical Garden in Trenta or the garden by the Villa Ferrari in Štanjel, which is also renowned for its architecture.
To learn more, visit www.slovenia.info
Swiss Serenity
Discover the most joyful scenes of nature in bloom by visiting one of the many gardens in Switzerland.
The botanical garden on the Brissago islands in Ticino, the Rose Garden in Bern or one of Switzerland’s five Ricola herb gardens in Zermatt all offer the utmost in beauty and serenity. Surrounded by water, protected by the Alps, and kissed by the sun, the Brissago islands’ botanical gardens are a wonderful escape in southern Switzerland. With over 1,500 species of plants in a huge variety of colors, exotic plants that grow all year round and the surrounding lake and mountains, the gardens are a true feast for the eyes. Head to the Rose Garden with over 220 different types of roses, a true Mecca for flower lovers, or visit the world-famous Swiss manufacturer of cough drops at the Ricola Herbal Garden. While at one of their five venues, visitors can follow trails through lush alpine meadows to find 13 of the Ricola herbs that give the candies their delicious taste.
For more information, visit www.myswitzerland.com
Abbeys of Austria
Discover the beauty of the well-kept gardens and parks that has drawn visitors to the centuries old abbeys and monasteries of Austria.
While in Austria, check out one of the many abbeys and monasteries and uncover the magic of their gardens. The Abbey of Geras located at St. Gallen in the Kamp Valley offers the first herb garden created by a monastery in modern times. Enjoy locally grown fruit trees, ornamental plants and plants with cultural importance. Visit the Abbey of Klosterneuburg located on the outskirts of Vienna, whose revived “orangery” (green house) presents itself as a tropical oasis in the midst of the abbey. The convent garden is an English garden from around 1850 that has been the traditional location of an exhibition of orchids every year. Stop by the Abbey of Melk, whose affectionately renovated baroque garden terrain contains a garden pavilion constructed by Franz Munggenast around 1750. The northeastern descending part of the garden has a view over the Danube and the Wachau Rivers, and this paradise garden contains everything from herbs to flowers and fruit trees.
For more information, visit www.austria.info
Slovakian Arboretums
Head to Slovakia and experience the allure of their luscious gardens.
The 165-acre Mlyňany Arboretum, located near Nitra, boasts one of the largest and most valuable collections of evergreen wood species in central Europe, with more than 2,300 plant species from different regions around the world, including southern Asia, the Far East and North America. Stop over at the Borová Hora Arboretum, located in the central Slovak town of Zvolen, the third week of June – at the height of the rose blooming season. With more than 600 varieties of roses in the rosarium, along with 1500 tree species – many of which are endangered or protected – and an impressive collection of cacti, the arboretum has something to offer for every nature lover.
For more information, visit www.cometoslovakia.com
Hungarian Plants
Head to the Racratot Botanic Garden and experience for yourself the richest botanical garden in Hungary.
The Racratot Botanic Garden, located in Vácrátót, is the most beautiful botanical garden in Hungary, containing more than 12,000 species of plant life. Laid out with rocks, a waterfall, artificial ruins and other romantic details, highlights include the bushes and deciduous cypresses growing around the man-made pond. In 1961 the garden opened its doors to the public and since then has been an organic part of the Research Institute for Botany, becoming a live laboratory and experimental research area. A country house with a park is also on the estate where music lovers can hear concerts of Mozart’s works throughout the year.
To learn more about gardens in Hungary, visit www.gotohungary.com
Swedish Horticulture
Experience the best of Scandinavian design at the Gardens of Gothenburg this summer with a trip to Sweden.
Start making plans today to visit what promises to be the great horticultural experience of 2008, from June 28-September 28. See four stunning but highly diverse parks that will each play a part in the Gardens of Gothenburg Exhibition: the Gothenburg Botanical Garden, Gunnebo House and Gardens, Liseberg Park, and the Garden Society of Gothenburg. Each park will offer a completely different experience for visitors and there will be something of interest for amateur gardeners, horticultural academics and even those with a mere window box to tend to.
To learn more, visit www.gardensofgothenburg.com
Nature in Cyprus
The variety of plant and animal life and unspoiled scenery make Cyprus one of the most beautiful places for appreciating nature.
A botanist’s heaven, Cyprus is blessed with 1,907 species, subspecies and flowering plants. To fully experience all Cyprus has to offer, visit the Cape Gkreko National Forest Park. Situated in the southeast of the island and noted for its magnificent sea cliffs and indigenous flora, the National Park is a great place to enjoy unique natural beauty. Cyprus is well known for its orchids, and many of the 36 different orchid species growing on the island are found here, while crocuses, colchicums and irises also add color and fragrance. The park occupies an area of over 960 acres and offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy a number of activities such as swimming, diving, parasailing, fishing, rowing, cycling, riding, climbing and hiking.
To learn more, go to www.visitcyprus.com
German Gardens
Sojourn to one of Germany’s castle gardens to admire the lush natural landscape surrounding the area.
Two gardens particularly worth visiting are the Bad Muskau Park in Saxony and the Herrenhaeuser Gardens in Hannover. The Bad Muskau Park is a beautiful masterpiece of surrounding smaller parks that connect into a unique whole. Covering an area of 2075 acres and characterised by its spacious layout, broad vistas, different styles of landscape architecture and artificial watercourses, the park is the biggest in central Europe, and in 2004 became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fascinating Herrenhaeuser Gardens also unite the most important styles of landscape design, with the main Grand Garten, consisting of a huge fountain, a wide variety of water features and a maze. Over 400,000 tourists each year visit this fascinating garden area, and a highlight each May to September is the International Fireworks Competition, when competitors from different countries light up the sky over the Gardens.
To learn more about German gardens, visit www.cometogermany.com
Portuguese Gardens Package
Venture to Portugal with “The Excellence of the Gardens” package to discover the great green spaces hidden all around Portugal.
Solares de Portugal is a network of 96 manor houses, family homes, and stately palaces that offer a personal lodging option throughout Portugal. Staying in one can be a rewarding ecotourism experience, as you might be on a working estate farm or within a natural preserve. All the houses have been arranged into three distinct groups: Casas Antigas (historic homes), Quintas e Herdades (farms and estate) and Casas Rústicas (rural homes), and they have been individually inspected to ensure the highest standards of quality and hospitality, with prices starting at €65. Solares de Portugal also hosts an annual International Festival Garden in Ponte de Lima in the Minho region from May 25 to October 30, where a jury and the public judge temporary gardens featuring contemporary garden designs and techniques.
To book your stay, visit www.solaresdeportugal.pt
Auto Europe Lease Program Saves
May 6, 2008 on 6:28 am | In Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Crete, Croatia, Czech, Denmark, Estonia, Europe, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lichtenstein, Lithuania, London, Luxwmbourg, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Paris, Poland, Portugal, Road Trips, Romania, Rome, Russia, Scotland, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Wales, Yugoslavia | Comments Off
Auto Europe, a leader in European car rental services for over 52 years, also offers tremendous savings for long-term rentals, 17 days or longer, with its Buy Back Program featuring over 19 factory new Peugeot models.
The new 2008 program includes new vehicle models and equipment that increase fuel savings and enhance your driving experience. These features include new automatic gearboxes similar to a Tiptronic automatic transmission. These new gearboxes save 8 percent on fuel versus a full automatic transmission and 4 percent fuel savings versus a manual gear transmission. The gearboxes are also better rated for anti pollution records with lower CO2 emissions.
To introduce the new Peugeot 308, Auto Europe is offering rates beginning at $39 per day. The benefits of a Peugeot Buy Back include rates that are tax inclusive with non-deductible fully comprehensive insurance, the ability to travel into most former Eastern Block countries with no additional fees, unlimited mileage, 24-hour roadside assistance and delivery can be arranged at most major airports and cities throughout Europe. In addition, minimum rental age is 18 with no maximum age limits.
The factory new vehicles with zero mileage can be delivered to select cities throughout France, Amsterdam, Brussels, Madrid, Barcelona, Milan, Frankfurt, Munich, Lisbon, Porto, London, Rome and Zurich.
For more information, call 800-223-5555