Jetsettersblog

Visitors can be Super Man or Wonder Woman for a day at Comic-Con International, July 23 – 26, at the San Diego Convention Center. Comic-Con has become a signature summertime event for San Diego; it is the largest comics and pop culture event in the United States, attracting thousands of artists, celebrities and fans of comic books, movie memorabilia and all things related to pop culture. For more information, call 619-491-2475, or visit www.comic-con.org .

San Diego’s culinary community joins forces during September 13 – 18 for San Diego Restaurant Week. More than a hundred of the region’s top restaurants offer prix-fixe, three-course dinner menus at just $20, $30 or $40 per person, so visitors can sample the signature cuisine and sophisticated style that make San Diego’s dining scene one of the region’s top attractions.

For more information, call 858-523-9020, or visit www.sandiegorestaurantweek.com .

The “turf meets the surf” at the Del Mar Racetrack where home racing fans flock each summer to wager on their favorite horses during the popular, annual Del Mar Thoroughbred Club racing season, July 22 – September 9.

The races run six days weekly, except Tuesday. Every Friday, guests can catch 4 O’Clock Fridays, a free headliner concert following the day’s last race.

On September 6, the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club’s Grade 1 Pacific Classic treats guests to a prestigious event with a race between the nation’s top thoroughbreds and $1 million purse. For more information, call 858-755-1141, or visit www.dmtc.com

MAJOR ATTRACTIONS

In April 2009, the San Diego Zoo’s Wild Animal Park opened Flightline, a new zip-line adventure that transports guests more than 400 feet across the park at speeds up to 60 mph.

The 1.5-hour experience begins at the top of a mountain in Nairobi Village and features a brief training lesson, behind-the-scenes narration and an aerial adventure that soars across the Asian and African field exhibits, and ends at Kilima Point. Participants must be 10 years of age or older and weigh between 75 and 200 pounds; the cost is $70 in addition to regular park admission.

For more information, call 619-231-1515, or visit www.sandiegozoo.org/wap

On May 23, 2009, the San Diego Zoo unveiled a journey through time with the opening of its newest exhibit, The Harry and Grace Steele Elephant Odyssey. Highlighting animals of the past, present and future, the $44 million, seven-acre habitat features Asian elephants, a California condor, sloths, snakes and rodents, as well as life-sized replicas of animal species that dotted the Southern California landscape more than 10,000 years ago.

A herd of eight elephants roam a 2.5-acre exhibit that includes a 120,000-gallon pool, gentle rolling hills and the Conrad Prebys Elephant Management Facility, where visitors can see keepers and veterinarians at work with the animals.

Additional highlights of Elephant Odyssey include a tar pit replication, fossil dig, children’s play area and much more. For more information, call 619-231-1515, or visit www.sandiegozoo.org

On May 29, 2009, SEA LIFE Aquarium in Carlsbad launched a new exhibit, Sharks Revealed.

The new display will replace the Kelp Forrest exhibit and provide an up-close look at the evolution, development and lifestyles of sharks, including how they eat, breathe and sleep. Several unique shark species will roam through the exhibit like the brown banded bamboo shark, white spotted bamboo shark and coral catshark.

Sharks Revealed will also showcase a number of educational displays and interactive opportunities for guests.

For more information, call 760-918-5346, or visit www.sealifeus.com

NEW HOTEL DEVELOPMENTS

In August 2009, Hotel Indigo San Diego, a new alternative to traditional hotels, will open in the East Village neighborhood of downtown San Diego.

Catering to the style-conscious traveler, the hotel will offer personalized service, affordable luxury and intelligent design to create a one-of-a-kind, welcoming environment.

The 12-story, 210-room property will feature open spaces, bold colors, unique textures, natural imagery and spa-inspired touches throughout the property.

In addition, public spaces and guestrooms will undergo seasonal transformations so that aromas, music, artwork, murals and more correlate to match the four seasons.

Hotel Indigo San Diego will also offer a bistro-style Golden Bean restaurant and Phi bar, each offering seasonal gourmet fare for breakfast and dinner.

A 24-hour “Phi”tness Studio, rooftop terrace with a reflection pool and fire pits, business center, 6,200-sq. ft. of meeting space and free wireless internet will round out the amenities.

Hotel Indigo will be San Diego’s first LEED-certified hotel, and green building practices will be seen throughout the property, including green roofs on its 9th and 12th floors.

For more information, visit www.hotelindigo.com

HOTEL RENOVATIONS AND NAME CHANGES

Renovations and upgrades to the historic 1906 Lodge in Coronado were completed in May 2009.

The building was originally built in 1906 as a boarding house, and now serves as a charming 17-room hotel.

Six of the hotel’s guest rooms are located in the mail lodge and feature queen beds, period furniture and original leaded glass windows that provide gorgeous views of Coronado.

Eleven of the hotel’s guest rooms are located in newly built bungalows and feature king beds, spa tubs, private entrances and private balconies or porches. Additional upgrades to the building include renovated common areas like the parlor, dining room and veranda.

The 1906 Lodge also boasts meeting space that can accommodate up to 40 guests.

For more information, call 866-435-1906, or visit http://1906lodge.com

The Holiday Inn San Diego on the Bay recently unveiled a complete brand re-launch featuring a new look and feel throughout the 14-story property.

The hotel’s 600 rooms now feature comfortable beds with crisp linens and a selection of pillows that range from soft to firm.

Guestroom bathrooms have been enhanced with superior showerheads, a curved shower rod for a more spacious feel and premium bath products. Enhanced lighting and landscaping designs offer a warm arrival experience, while just inside the lobby, new stylish touches, signature sounds, scents and an efficient guest check-in round out the welcome experience.

For more information, call 619-232-3861, or visit www.hisandiegoonthebay.com

In May 2009, Pala Casino Spa and Resort in San Diego’s North County completed a $100 million expansion, which includes major improvements to the dining and gaming areas and a new parking garage.

Pala Casino’s buffet area was expanded to 20,000-sq. ft. and renamed Choices, providing guests a world-class, interactive dining experience featuring eight live-action cooking stations, seating for more than 625 guests, an area for private parties and great views of the neighboring scenic mountains.

Pala Casino also opened two new restaurants — Amigos, an authentic Mexican eatery with quick-style service, and Sushi Sake, a Japanese restaurant. Within Pala’s casino area, a Poker Room with 15 tables, private cage windows and tableside dining was also added. Additionally, the casino’s private High Limit Area features three redesigned, Feng Shui-inspired rooms.

For more information, call 877-946-7252, or visit www.palacasino.com

Continue reading UPCOMING MAJOR EVENTS in San Diego…

MAKES PLANNING YOUR VEGAS TRIP EASIER THAN EVER BEFORE WITH EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR TRAVELERS

Vegas Attractions Combine Resources, Databases, Marketing Dollars and More,
Maximizing Outreach to Both Consumers and Travel Partners

LAS VEGAS - Cooperation versus competition: that is the new mantra for a group of Las Vegas-based tourist attractions banding together to form Best Vegas Attractions.

For consumers, Best Vegas Attractions helps makes travel decisions easier than ever before with incredible discounted values.

For businesses, the groundbreaking consortium is setting new rules for conducting business in the tourism industry.

Currently included in the group (in alphabetical order):

“BODIES…The Exhibition”: Showing at Luxor Hotel and Casino, this exhibition features actual human specimens and allows people of all ages access to sights and knowledge normally reserved for medical professionals.

Fashion Outlets of Las Vegas: Located 36 miles south of Las Vegas in Primm, Nev., the outlets feature more than 100 stores with up to 75 percent off designer fashions.

Hard Rock Café: This summer, expect Las Vegas’ second Hard Rock Café location. The new café will feature an extensive retail shop, a “LIVE” venue, private function and meeting rooms and a grand cafe restaurant with patio dining and entertainment overlooking the Strip. The (original) Paradise location will keep on “rockin’ away” with Hard Rock Café’s classic dining and retail items.

Las Vegas Monorail: The Las Vegas Monorail is a quick and convenient connection to the Las Vegas Strip, linking riders to the city’s world-class restaurants, shows, shops, clubs, hotels and casinos. In just 15 minutes,

Monorail riders can travel from one end of the Strip to the other in a safe, clean and climate-controlled environment - without the hassles of traffic or wasted time.

The Monorail’s electric, zero-emissions trains arrive every few minutes at each of the seven stations: MGM Grand; Bally’s/Paris Las Vegas; Flamingo/Caesars Palace; Harrah’s/Imperial Palace; Las Vegas Convention Center; Las Vegas Hilton and Sahara.

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas: Located in front of the Venetian Resort Hotel Casino, Madame Tussauds Las Vegas offers guests the unique opportunity to ‘interact’ with incredibly life-like iconic figures from the celebrity worlds of film, TV, music, sports and politics.

Guests can ‘grab hold’ of their favorite stars with our many interactive experiences.

With more than 100 wax figures, guests can take pictures, touch and get up close and personal in a themed setting. The attraction is open 365 days a year starting at 10 a.m.

Papillon Airways, Inc.: Founded in 1965, Papillon Airways, Inc. (French for “butterfly”) and Grand Canyon Airlines/Scenic Airlines since 1929 are the largest “flightseeing” companies in the world, with nearly 70 state-of-the-art helicopters and airplanes, specifically designed to reveal panoramic views beyond imagination.

The Halvorson family recently acquired Kenai Helicopters (now known as Grand Canyon Helicopters), Grand Canyon Airlines, Grand Canyon Coaches and Scenic Airlines. These companies are the only companies that fly the entire Grand Canyon including the South and West rims, in addition to tours of Las Vegas, Page/Lake Powell and Monument Valley.

Tours afford maximum flight time, enabling guests to fully discover Grand Canyon’s great wilderness and scenic attractions.

During busy months, the Halvorson companies fly more than 3,500 passengers daily.

“Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition:

Featuring more than 300 artifacts, as well as breathtaking replicas from the famous ship, the Titanic exhibit truly brings history to life inside Luxor Hotel and Casino.

BUSINESSES BANDING TOGETHER

“We were all going after the same consumers, practically tripping over one another to secure business. We are like-minded businesspeople and had all thought at one point or another, ‘there has to be a better way to do this.’

Ultimately, we realized we are stronger together,” says Robert Graff, vice president of marketing, Papillon Airways, Inc. “This partnership provides us with a platform to implement marketing, advertising, databases and sales strategies in an impactful and cost-effective way, expanding our reach beyond what we could accomplish as individual companies.

Through this consortium, we are targeting customers through wholesale and tour operators, travel agents, airline partners, concierges and many more.”
The group developed rack cards discount and referral booklets, all branded as Best Vegas Attractions.

The referral program officially began in May 2009 and provides cash incentives to concierges and front desk representatives’ and discounts to visitors.

More than 40,000 booklets are being distributed to more than 113 resorts. To incentivize both visitors and tour and travel representatives, the program is designed to save visitors up to $500 and concierge and front desk representatives to receive up to $100 per booklet in cash-back incentives.

CONSUMERS CASH IN ON VALUE

Consumers who patronize participating attractions will save anywhere from 15 to 50 percent off the regular prices.
“We know visitors who come to Las Vegas are searching for value,” concludes Graff.

“Best Vegas Attractions clearly lays out guest options, making it easier than ever to decide what to do while they are in the destination. Top that with incredible savings they will not be able to find anywhere else. We created this group because of the guests and for the guests.
”
ABOUT BEST VEGAS ATTRACTIONS

Best Vegas Attractions (BVA) is a collaborative partnership among several Las Vegas visitor attractions, developed to increase awareness about the organization that will ultimately drive leisure and convention business to participating attractions. BVA’s objective is to provide value-added opportunities for travelers and visitors through special offers and values. By partnering on marketing, public relations and advertising efforts that include strategic branding, Web site production, collateral production and distribution, BVA attractions combine resources on activities at a fraction of the cost, which saves their respective companies time and money.

For more information, go to www.bestvegasattractions.com

VisitBritain, the national tourist office for England, Scotland and Wales, is highlighting summer events happening around the U.K from bog snorkeling to jazz festivals.

The Goodwood Festival of Speed (July 3 to 5) is a car event for racing aficionados, celebrating everything about car performance in Chichester, West Sussex.

For more information, visit www.goodwood.co.uk

Glyndebourne Opera Festival, East Sussex (until Aug. 30), is the country’s most exclusive opera festival.

For more information, visit www.glyndebourne.com

The Festival of History (July 25 to 26) takes place on the grounds of 18th century Kelmarsh Hall in Northamptonshire. It celebrates 2,000 years of English history with more than 1,000 costumed interpreters re-enacting historical events. There will be more than 50 shows a day during the festival.

For more information, visit www.festivalofhistory.org.uk

The 14th Leeds Shakespeare Festival (July and August) features two of Shakespeare’s most popular plays performed in the idyllic setting of Leeds, the only English city outside London with its own repertory theater, opera house and ballet companies.

For more information, visit www.visitleeds.co.uk

Manchester Pride (Aug. 21 to 31) is one of the U.K.’s premier gay events. It features a celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender life through a series of more than 40 events covering art, film, debate and entertainment, as well as other fantastic parties.

For more information, visit www.manchesterpride.com

The Cotswold Show & Country Fair (July 4 and 5) features a full two-day program of family activities at Cirencester Park.

For more information, visit www.cotswoldshow.co.uk

Henry VIII 500 years celebrations (around Britain, 2009) include the opening of the Tudor Garden at Hampton Court Palace this month and a jousting tournament at Eltham Palace. Henry’s many women also get a look in August when their portraits will be displayed at a fascinating exhibition hosted at Hampton Court.

For more information, visit www.visitlondon.com

The BBC Proms, London (July 17 to Sept. 12) represents a massive showcase of live music and performances at the Royal Albert Hall, including a string of 76 concerts with world class orchestral music and solo performances in the heart of London.

For more information, visit www.bbc.co.uk/proms/2009

The National Theatre Goes Outdoors, as the area outside the theater, beside the Thames on London’s South Bank, will be used as a stage for theater, circus, dance, music and spectacle.

For more information, visit www.nationaltheatre.org.uk

Homecoming Scotland is a year-long celebration filled with events focusing on whisky, golf and ancestry poet Robert Burns. August highlights include the piping music festival in Glasgow, Piping Live and the iconic Military Tattoo music and military theatre event in Edinburgh.

For more information, visit www.homecomingscotland.com

The 16th Annual Scottish Traditional Boat Festival (July 2 to 5), in Portsoy Harbour in Aberdeenshire, celebrates all aspects of Scottish maritime heritage.

For more information, visit www.visitscotland.com

The Highland Games (around Scotland, Summer 2009) is a mix of sporting, cultural and social events, including field and track events, piping, Highland dancing competitions, and “heavy events” like the tug-o-war, the hammer throw and tossing the caber. One of the largest Highland games in history, The Gathering (July 25 and 26) will be hosted at famed Edinburgh locations like Holyrood Park, Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle.

For more information, visit www.visitscotland.com

The Whole in One Golf Exhibition (Rozelle Estate, Ayrshire, to Aug 31) charts the history of open golf, incorporating a wealth of unusual and rarely seen exhibits. Scotland is widely acknowledged as the “Home of Golf” and boasts some of the best, most challenging and most beautiful courses in the world.

For more information, visit www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk

The Return to the Ridings (June 1 to Aug. is the annual Border Common Ridings, a mounting spectacle packed with music. Each participating town has its own distinctive history and ceremony providing a unique Return to the Ridings experience.

For more information, visit www.visitscotland.com

T in the Park (July 9 to 12) is Scotland’s biggest outdoor music festival held in Balado, Kinross, and will feature over 170 artists playing across 11 stages and will welcome 80,000 music fans this year.

For more information, visit www.tinthepark.com

In Wales, the Cardiff International Food & Drink Festival (July 10 to 12) highlights food from around Wales, France, Germany and Italy, along with professionals demonstrating seasonal recipes.

For more information, visit www.cardiff-festival.com

The National Eisteddfod (Aug. 1 to is the largest and oldest celebration of Welsh culture. It dates from 1176 and invites visitors to meet bards dressed in druidical robes and green-clad elves dancing to trumpeters.

For more information, visit www.eisteddfod.org.uk

The Brecon Jazz Festival (Aug. 7 to 9) features more than 90 concerts in the picturesque market town of Brecon.

For more information, visit www.breconjazz.org

The Bryn Terfel Faenol Festival (Faenol Estate, Aug. 28 to 31) features three concerts with the mountains of Snowdonia as their backdrop.

The World Bog Snorkeling Championship (Aug. 31) is held annually in the U.K.’s smallest town — Llanwrtyd Wells in Mid Wales. It involves contestants battling through a peat bog using a mask and snorkel.

For more information, visit www.worldbogsnork.com.

For general destination information, visit www.visitbritain.us

La Quinta Resort & Club in La Quinta, Calif., will host the third annual Desert Classic Concours d’Elegance, Feb. 26 to 28, 2010.

This celebration of the motorsports lifestyle will bring together the world’s most rare automobiles along with cocktails and cuisine prepared by La Quinta’s culinary team. Exhibit areas will also include displays of other collectible items, such as jewelry, watches and art.

Guests at the event will view more than 150 legendary classic, sports and racing vehicles displayed at the La Quinta Resort Mountain Course. The exclusive selection of marques will include Bugatti, Delahaye, Mercedes Benz, Packard and Alfa Romeo. The cars will be displayed with detailed information so that spectators can learn about their history and significance.

Awards will be presented to more than 30 automobiles in 14 categories. Advanced tickets to the Sunday Concours d’Elegance are $25 per person. Tickets will be on sale beginning Nov. 1, 2009. Children 12 and under receive complimentary admission.

The Desert Classic Concours d’Elegance is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation. Proceeds benefit Coachella Valley charities.

For more information, call 760-766-2824 or visit www.desertconcours.com

There has never been a better time to visit Lithuania than now as the country enters its second Millennium.

Exactly one thousand years later capital Vilnius has a golden opportunity to reveal its secrets as the European Capital of Culture 2009.

The year will see more than 300 events take place across Vilnius and 120 projects planned for the 2010 and 2011 ahead to mark the occasion.

This summer will be bursting with events across the country.

The capital Vilnius will host various festivals from classical music to the Millennium Song and Dance festival, which is attended by over 40 thousand folk dancers and singers worldwide.

Kaunas will attract visitors with medieval festivals while Klaipeda will host „Tall Ships’ Races” and the festival of European folk culture “EUROPEADE”.
These are just some of the events scheduled to take place in Lithuania in the summer of 2009.

Vilnius:

Vilnius Opera Festival (Until – 6 July)

The first International Opera Festival will be presenting acknowledged classics of the genre and modern experimental works, most famous theatre troupes, creative team members and artists from Lithuania and abroad, unique works dedicated especially to the festival. www.opera.lt

(The link: http://www.opera.lt/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=367)

The Millennium Song Festival (1-6 July)

Continuing our country’s significant cultural tradition dating back to the memorable 1924, the Millennium Song Festival of Lithuania in Vilnius is being arranged. That will be one of the most prominent events in celebration of the Millennium of Lithuania. The traditions and symbolism of Lithuania’s Song and Dance festivals was proclaimed by UNESCO as the masterpiece of the oral and intangible heritage of humanity. The parade of participants, the folk art exhibition, concerts of artistic collectives, the joint performance of amateur theatres “Amerika pirtyje” and many other events will take place. About 40,000 performers from Lithuania and emigrants from all over the world will take part in different programmes. www.dainusvente.lt

The link: http://www.dainusvente.lt/index.php?495349762

Grand Official Opening of the Reconstructed Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania (06 July)

The restoration of Palace of the Grand Dukes in 2009 is one of the most important projects dedicated to Lithuania’s millennium anniversary.

The reconstructed Palace will represent a national pride and will be a powerful reminder of Lithuania’s strong traditions as a state.

Also it will be an educational centre meant to promote a greater understanding of the country’s history and cultural heritage. http://www.valdovurumai.lt/Istorija/Rumu_istorija.en.htm

Christopher Summer Festival (1 July – 28 August)

The Christopher Summer Festival is the largest and one of the most impressive summer events in Vilnius, which will take place for the 15th time in 2009. The conception of the festival was to be original—in that the events, music and theatre premieres, exceptional projects and performances would be executed in the unique surroundings of Vilnius’ architecture and in the unique courtyards and churches of the Old Town so that it would be especially interesting for both visitors and residents of Vilnius.

http://www.kristupofestivaliai.lt/ http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt

Klezmer Festival (25-29 August)

Klezmer Music Festival – the first in the Baltic States will confirm once again that Vilnius has been open to different nations, religions and cultures at all times.

The main idea of the Festival is to introduce music which can be played and enjoyed irrespective of religion. 

Visit this link.

Festival of experimental archaeology of live archaeology: “Days of Live Archaeology” (4- 6 July)

During the festival prehistoric and early medieval crafts, lifestyle, medieval fights are being demonstrated and archaic music groups perform. A historic and cultural heritage of Lithuania and other European countries from prehistoric to late medieval times will be presented during the event, through the methods of experiment and archaeological reconstruction.
http://www.culturelive.lt/en/2009/millennium/kernave

Pazaislis Music festival in Kaunas (Until  31 August)

Since 1996 when the first Paþaislis music festival took place a lot of representatives of music elite had visited Lithuania.

Festival is famous for the fact, that the listeners of the most particular taste may find in the schedule of the festival something what interests them, starting from the old music and finishing with jazz, from the subtle chamber music to the grand vocal instrumental pieces, from the modern music premieres to the impressive pageants of Lithuanian dramaturgy in the approaches of Kaunas Castle. http://visit.kaunas.lt

International Operetta Festival (4-5 July)

This is a unique musical event in the open that attracts audience of various tastes. The festival “Musical in Kaunas castle” takes place on July 6, the Day of Lithuania’s Statehood, and is an outstanding accent of the day. “Operetta at Kaunas castle” is an original festival, first of such kind in East Europe. At the traditional annual event, not only popular fragments of musicals and operettas, but also some new pieces, never heard before, are performed by singers and musicians from Lithuania and other countries. http://visit.kaunas.lt

Hansa Kaunas 2009 (22 – 23 August)

The Midlle Ages, the knights, and Hansa markets in Kaunas downtown. http://visit.kaunas.lt

Klaipëda:
Sea Festival (25-26 July)

The main event of Klaipëda city, celebrated annually last week-end of July since 1934. During the festival there are more than 100 various events organized (concerts, fairs, exhibitions, artistic actions, ceremonies of seamen, etc.). It is also famous for traditional sailing regattas “BALTIC SAIL” and „SPRINT CUP” taking place during the festival. More than 500 thousands of people are coming to the city during the festival. http://www.klaipedainfo.lt/en/index.php?page=7⊂=18

EUROPEADE (The festival of European folk culture) (22 – 26 July)

For the first time European folk culture festival “Europeade” will take place in Lithuania, in Klaipëda.

The main goal of the festival is „free and peaceful Europe, where cultures of different nations coexist together“.

Thus there are cultural forms of more than 20 European States presented during five days of „Europeade“ and thousands of Europeans (approx. 5 thousands) have their folk-art meeting with dances, songs and music.

Klaipëda will become the 25th city, which has been honoured to accept festival for the 46th time and to present uniqueness of our country and its culture, but also contribute to the creation of an image of the country, which cherishes its identity in the framework of Lithuanian Millennium program. www.europeade.eu

The Tall Ships‘ Races Baltic 2009“ (31 July – 3 August)

The first regatta of sail training ships “The Tall Ships’ Races” held from Great Britain to Portugal in 1956, had to mark the end of “the epoch of sails”.

But, actually, it happened to prophesy a new era for sailing ships and sail training. Every year the regattas are organized in different seas, but they always cover three routes and are hosted by four ports of different countries. In 2009 Klaipeda will host the finals of the regatta.

The event is dedicated to the Millennium of the Name of Lithuania. www.talships.lt

COCOA BEACH, FL — Florida has many attractions and places to visit. www.Placesaroundflorida.com  offers in-depth information on the most popular locations and events Florida has to offer, including beaches, Amusement parks, towns with hotels and restaurants, etc.

www.PlacesAroundFlorida.com helps visitors find things to do in Florida before their trip begins by offering a comprehensive Florida travel guide.

The summer time is almost here and Placesaroundflorida.com agrees that Summer time is Family time.

Placesaroundflorida.com allows you to make hotel reservations at any of the destinations that are reviewed on the site.

You can see competing prices and attractions that are near to your place of lodging. Florida caters to families whom have kids of all ages, grown or still young, and those locations have been examined for your informational pleasures by the writers for the website.

Beaches of interest include those in the Panhandle nicknamed the “Emerald Coast”, the Gulf Coast Beaches such as Clearwater Beach, East Coast Beaches such as Cocoa Beach, and South Florida Beaches such as Lummus Beach (South Beach, Miami).

The Writers and Webmaster of Placesaroundflorida.com have first person experiences with Florida Beaches, along with historical information on each of their locations.

The Staff has taken many photos of many Florida locations and hot spots. Nature lovers can get a glimpse of what is to be expected from some of the snap shots displayed on Placesaroundflorida.com. Pictures display fishing, bird watching and lounging spots around the great outdoors of Florida, particularly those on or around beaches and parks of interest.

Orlando visitors are not excluded with  ever popular Orlando Beaches section. This area describes beaches on the east of Florida, an hour away from the Orlando area. Beaches such as Cocoa Beach, Daytona Beach and the Jetty Park at Cape Canaveral are all listed and explained in detail.

Their location explanations include places of interest, hotels, restaurants, fishing and surfing spots.

The website helps with planning tourist day trips to nearby locations from where they are currently lodging elsewhere in Florida.

Florida is home to thirteen ship, cargo and cruise ship ports, as it has been for over a hundred years. Back in older times, Lighthouses were built to help the guidance of ships around these ports.

These lighthouses are now historic sites and are often visited my crowds of people. www.Placesaroundflorida.com pinpoints the location of these lighthouses around the state and explains their tours and historical usage of each lighthouse. The website acts as an informational brochure that you will have access to before you visit such locations.

The Webmaster, Kirby Collins, said “Florida’s distinctive character inspired this website”. His website has inspired hundreds of thousands to visit some of its selected Florida locations, which has in turn, created an economic stimulus for the Florida Economy, which already thrives on a top source of income: Tourism. Even if your economy is down, Placesaroundflorida.com offers suggestions of local budget places for food and rooms to stay in.

The popularity for ‘nostalgia style holidays’ has led to a marked increase in demand for classic and historic racing tours, according to Grandstand Motor Sports (0845 375 0300 www.grandstandmotorsports.co.uk).

As the market leader in specialist tours for classic car enthusiasts, they have seen demand to join their range of tours and events increase by 35% over the last three years as both participants and spectators alike yearn to relive the nostalgic days of classic motor sport.

Two of the most popular UK events are the Goodwood ‘Festival of Speed’ (3-6 July) and the Goodwood Revival (18- 21 September).

The ‘Festival of Speed’ is without doubt one of the largest and most diverse classic motor sports events, featuring machines flown in from around the world, including models from the earliest Edwardian period to the latest F1 cars,

Alternatively, the ‘Revival’ is a total feast for 50’s nostalgia fans and goes to great lengths to recreate the age with spectators and drivers dressed in period costume to watch the classic cars and motorcycles of the 1950’s relive Goodwood’s heyday, on a circuit that remains virtually unchanged, with not a modern vehicle in sight and even the fish and chips are wrapped in 1950’s newspaper.

A three day package to the Goodwood Festival of Speed costs £579 per person or for the Goodwood Revival a 3 days package costs £649. For both events this includes accommodation in nearby Portsmouth plus transfers and a grandstand ticket.

Adding to the interest this year is the new Algarve Historic Festival (17 and 18 October) at Portimao in Southern Portugal. All the top historic race series cars will be competing at the brand new circuit, including the Grand Prix Masters 1970’s Formula One cars, pre-1966 GT and touring cars, plus Vintage and pre-war Grand Prix cars. In addition to a three night ground package to the event, which costs from £349 per person (excluding flights), leading specialists in classic car tours, the ‘Grand Touring Club’ arm of Grandstand Motor Sports are organising a 12 night driving tour through Spain and Portugal, with tickets to the festival, staying at a range of luxury hotels, former castles and palaces along the way.

Packages cost from £1,699 per person based on two people in a car and sharing a room.

For enthusiasts wanting take their own classic car to an event Grandstand offers a five night self drive tour to the Circuit des Ramparts event at Angouleme (16-21 September). This year is the 70th anniversary of the first race and to celebrate The Grand Touring Club have developed a fresh itinerary designed for classic cars to the event.

The tour includes entry into the touristic Rally through the prettiest parts of the Charente countryside with interesting checkpoints along the way.

Other highlights of the weekend will include a recreation of the grid with many of the original cars that took place in the first race in 1939.

The package costs £699 per person based on two people in a car and sharing a room and includes ferry crossing, accommodation, most meals, entry to the rally, tickets to the competitors gala buffet in the covered market in Angouleme and tickets to the main race on Sunday 20 September.

Looking ahead to 2010 the biennial Monaco Historic Grand Prix returns to the streets of Monte Carlo on 8 and 9 May and the Le Mans Classic also returns on 9-11 July. Grandstand is already taking provisional booking for both events with nothing to pay at the moment to reserve a preferred hotel at either of the events.

For details call Grandstand Motor Sports on 0845 375 0300 or visit the website www.grandstandmotorsports.co.uk

The Yas Island track being built by Aldar in the UAE capital for the November 1s t inaugural Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix - the final round of the 2009 FIA Formula One World Championship – has emerged as a major visitor highlight at Arabian Travel Market 2009 – the Middle East’s premier travel and tourism event which runs at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre until Friday night.

A model of the track and the Yas Island development, which includes seven hotels Aldar is planning to open in time for the race, is on display in the Abu Dhabi pavilion and captured the attention of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Emirates airline who opened the show.

After receiving a project brief from Ahmed Hussein, Deputy Director General, Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) and Paul Bell of Aldar Hospitality, Sheikh Ahmed commented: “I look forward to seeing the action on November 1.”

ADTA and 40 of its stakeholder partners make up the largest pavilion at Arabian Travel Market 2009-05-05

Can Hamilton Topple Massa’s Grand Prix Three?

For three consecutive years, Ferrari’s Felipe Massa has taken the title at Turkey’s exciting F1 weekend. 2008 saw Lewis Hamilton set his personal best, but still left him over three seconds behind the Brazilian, in second position. Join the tension at the track on Sunday 7 June 2009 for this year’s Turkish Grand Prix with Brilliant Trips’ four-day F1 package.

Opened in 2005, the 3.34-mile circuit near the Turkish capital of Istanbul is challenging, and many in the know claim it to be home to one of motor-racing’s best double-apex lefts. It’s the fourth formula one track to be designed by the architect Hermann Tilke and has been heaped with all-round praise for its design and modern facilities.

One of the world’s most iconic cities, Istanbul provides the perfect backdrop for a short break of F1 fun. If you thought this Middle-Eastern capital was all about history and culture, think again - rapidly becoming the hippest city around there are more bars, clubs, restaurants and stylish nightspots than you could dream of.

For partners or friends looking for some non-F1-fun, Istanbul is home to some of the best spas and bathhouses in Europe and is fast becoming the Ferrari of the fashion world, with retail therapy to satisfy even the most ardent of shopaholics.

Brilliant Trips are operating four-day F1 packages (excluding flights) to the Turkish Grand Prix from Friday 5 – Monday 8 June for £329 per person, including 3 nights Bed and Breakfast hotel accommodation (double or twin share), entry to the Saturday qualifying and Sunday race days, transfers to and from the race track and services of a tour guide.

Flights can also be arranged on request.

Brilliant trips (www.brillianttrips.co.uk)  is an exciting new online tour operator offering active day trips, one night, weekend and short breaks both in the UK and overseas.

They also specialise in tailor-made group travel, with an innovative ‘Brilliant Ideas for Girls, Boys and Friends’ series of trips including ideas suitable for the hen, stag and corporate market.

The emphasis is on fun and good value for money. Brilliant Trips caters for the young professional market, and to the overseas traveller looking for an inexpensive way to see the UK.

Sportsnet Holidays Launch 2009 Grand Finale Sydney 500 Packages

December 4, 2009 will see all roads leading to Sydney for fast cars, hot parties and adrenalin packed excitement as the final leg of the V8 Supercar Challenge hits ‘The First State’ for what can only be described as an ‘absolute event extravaganza!’

Be there to witness the first ever Sydney 500, as Homebush roars into action with 3 days of spectacular on and off the track entertainment!

Organisers are expecting a crowd of more than 150 000 over the 3 huge days, while V8 Supercars Australia will showcase Sydney to 850 million homes around the globe via international television broadcast!

Sportsnet Holidays can hook you up with a 4 night accommodation and ticket experience, putting you right in the thick of the action! The team at Sportsnet will also throw in a FREE 3 day paddock pass, which will get you up close and personal with the drivers, their cars, the crew, sponsors and celebrities!

Choose to upgrade your ticket to a Grandstand or Corporate Hospitality Package and you will automatically go in the draw to WIN 3 HOT LAPS with Holden Young Gun Tony D’Alberto on Day 1 of the Sydney 500!

To book your Sydney 500 Grand Finale Package Free call 1300 888 858, via email on travel@sportsnetholidays.com  or at www.sportsnetholidays.com