Spain is Scotland's Top Holiday Destination

The holidays and flights business has been hit hard by the recent economic downturn. Many hotels, resorts and airlines are cutting costs in an effort to keep their businesses running even when the guests aren't coming in the numbers they used to.

In at least one place, though, the tourists are still faithfully keeping their vacation plans. Spain's tourism industry continues to thrive despite the euro's strength against other world currencies.

Scottish tourists in particular have always been fond of Spain and the Spanish island such as Tenerife and Lanzarote. More commercial flights arrive in Spain from Scotland than most other countries. Every year, Scots flock to Spain for its gorgeous beaches, its lively culture and its relatively cheap prices.

Despite the euro gaining strength on the British pound, Spain is less expensive for Scottish tourists to visit than many other countries in the European Union. Since the Spanish economy thrives on tourism, prices have remained affordable for holidaymakers.

But Spain's attraction isn't about tourist traps or cheap thrills. The country's long and fascinating history is what draws some visitors. Others come for the robust nightlife in Spain's cities. Many tourists come to Spain to revel in some of the world's most treasured art and architecture. From the Prado in Madrid to the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain is a dream come true for anyone who enjoys admiring the works of masters.

Winter holidays in the warmth of Lanzarote are popular too, with many Scots opting to have holidays in Lanzarote while their own winter is on.

Recently, tourist destinations outside of the European Union have become very popular for British tourists. Egypt and South America have been named as among some of the most affordable destinations for British visitors.

However, many prefer to remain closer to home. Spain is only a short journey away, meaning that Scottish holidaymakers can save money on airfares. Even if the local currency in Spain means that they will pay more once they arrive, the Scots don't seem to mind. To them, the pleasure of being in Spain is worth paying just a little more due to the currency conversion.

Some Scots, however, are choosing to stay at home rather than travel abroad, and they're not alone. Tourists come from all over the world to see the natural and historical richness of Scotland.

Among the most popular Scottish tourist destinations are Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands. Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, has a rich history dating back many centuries. Today it is one of the rare cities that manage to seamlessly blend the ancient and the modern.

Edinburgh features some of Europe's most beloved music and arts festivals. Local history and culture permeate the modern atmosphere to create a wholly unique experience. In Edinburgh, you can visit the ancient Edinburgh Castle, admire the art in the National Gallery of Scotland and dance to modern music in a club all in the same day. And August sees the Edinburgh Festival in full swing.

The Scottish Highlands have been immortalized in many books and films, but nothing can prepare you for the real thing. As one of the most diverse wildlife habitats in Britain, the Highlands contain a fascinating array of birds, seals, dolphins and many more animals. The rough terrain and famously fickle weather make every outing an adventure, but one that is very much worth embarking on.

Spain clearly remains Scotland's favourite tourist destination and will do so far into the future. But Scots continue to holiday inside Scotland as well, enjoying the beauty that their homeland has to offer - Scotland must have a lot going for it as most of the British Royal Family spend their summer at Balmoral!

Amsterdam The City Of Wondrous Canals

There are many cities that have been built around canals. These cities have risen and fallen over the ages to make way for newer cities. Amsterdam has remained and is today one of the most popular tourist destinations on the planet, attracting people from all walks of life and people looking for an array of different things.

Within these 160 canals lives a population of almost 800,000 people. In the peak season, this number seems to swell like the banks of the canals in the rainy season with the influx of tourists. Amsterdam is also a city of great hospitality and therefore the accommodation on offer is world class. There are many different accommodation options from which to choose. This all depends on what you are looking for. If you are looking for a budget holiday with your college friends then Amsterdam is renowned for its friendly (and sometimes too friendly!) backpacker lodges. If you are a businessman who is travelling across the world then all the global hotel branches can also be found in Amsterdam. And of course there is place for families with a wide variety of self-catering holiday apartments.

Amsterdam is a relatively clean city. This can be attributed to over half a million bicycles on the streets. This not only gives Amsterdam's streets a quaint feeling but will also leaving you feeling that there is no other place on Earth quite like Amsterdam.

Springtime is possibly the prettiest time of year in Amsterdam. The weather is cool and the tulips are in bloom. You cannot do anything but smile when you walk out of your hotel room onto the springtime streets of Amsterdam. This is when the accommodation and travel costs are slightly down too, as this is not the peak season in Amsterdam. Do not be fooled, though. Summer temperatures in the city do not often surpass 75F and there is always a little summer drizzle at the hottest points to cool things down.

If you are planning to head somewhere new on your next holiday and you have not considered Amsterdam, then you should think long and hard about it. The city can be used as a springboard to visit other major European cities. This is due mainly to its central location. The city competes well in pricing with similar first world cities and accommodation can easily be found. The best way to find accommodation is to book online. There are many sites that specialise in Amsterdam accommodation and you will be able to view pictures of the hotel, self-catering apartment or holiday rental apartment so that you do not receive any unpleasant surprises when you arrive.

Visiting the Outskirts of Cape Town

While Cape Town certainly has plenty of activities and sights to offer on its own, there are also numerous sights to see around Cape Town as well. Located just a short distance from Cape Town is the town of Greyton. A drive from Cape Town to Greyton will take you approximately ninety minutes when the weather is good and traffic is minimal.

Greyton Lodge is well known in the area for offering warm and charming accommodations. Whether you want to enjoy the in-house Jazz pianist or simply curl up by a warm fire on cool evenings, there are plenty of opportunities to relax at this lodge. Two dining rooms offer ample space for dining and complete an environment that is nothing short of homey and charming.

If you happen to time your trip so that it coincides with a weekend, you will most certainly want to make a stop by the market that takes place on the village green on Saturday mornings. Whether you just want to wander around and browse or a pick up a jar of lemon curd, this is certainly an enjoyable way to spend a morning.

There are also plenty of fine restaurants and cafes located in the local area where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch. From trendy and artsy to cozy and welcoming, there are plenty of different options here to suit your tastes.

Hermanus is another lovely town situated not far from Cape Town. On a good day's drive, Hermanus is about an hour's drive from Greyton and it is certainly a gorgeous drive.

Among the sights that you will want to enjoy once you arrive in Hermanus is the seafront. Even on days when the weather is not at its best, a walk along the seafront is well worth it. The old harbor here is quite interesting and offers views that are spectacular.

Dining in Hermanus is also superb as there are numerous restaurants which serve fine meals. If you're looking for a way to work off all of those calories, you can head over to the Hermanus Golf course for a day on the green practicing your swing.

Of course, there is no better way to top off a trip to Hermanus than by paragliding. The local area is known for its paragliding opportunities and with the spectacular views that surround this beautiful region, it is little wonder. Sir Lowry's Pass is one of the better places for paragliding, offering expansive views that look out toward Cape Town over Somerset West. If you have never gone paragliding before, rest assured that you will receive ample instruction that should help you to set aside any case of nerves you might experience. The views that offered as you sail towards the ground and then experience a soft landing are definitely worth the experience.

If you're looking for something a bit different to do than traveling the wine routes during a visit to Cape Town, a visit to Hermanus and Greyton are definitely in order.

Travelling : Popular Indoor Ski Areas

Indoor ski areas have become popular for both novice and advanced skiers to be able to learn and practice on without the challenges of severe weather conditions.

Have you ever wondered what the popular indoor ski areas around the world are? These areas tend to be in countries that already have outdoor skiing facilities, and are more common in Europe that in other areas. But that isn't always the case. These can be found in Germany, Switzerland, England, Netherlands, Japan, China and Australia. In one unusual location - Ras Al-Khaimah, a part of the United Arab Emirates, construction has begun on a 2,000 meter indoor ski area.

So here are some places you might want to make part of your travel plans:

United Arab Emirates

* Dubai is truly a ski facility in the desert. It has 5 different runs that are designed for beginning to advanced skiers and snowboarders. There is a full 3000 square meters contained in this indoor snow park. All equipment needed is available on site. Numerous restaurants, gift shops and other venues provide visitors with lots to do and see.

United Kingdom

* The Snowdome in Tamworth is one of the post popular indoor ski areas. It has a 170-meter slope with year round real snow. The Snowdome provides lessons at all levels for both skiers and snowboarders. Snowmobiling and cross-country skiing is also available at the facility.

* Xscape, located in Castleford, features skiing, snowboarding as well as tobogganing and ice walls. These ice walls are built by hand to simulate conditions of rock climbing, only on ice.

Australia and New Zealand

* Mt. Thebarton in Adelaide, Australia was the first built and is still a popular indoor ski area. The facility includes skating rinks, restaraunts and bars, video arcades and other attractions.

* Snowplanet in Auckland, New Zealand offers a full compliment of snowsport activities 365 days a year. It features three lifts and a separate terrain area for snowboarders. A chalet style restaruant opens overlooking the snow park allowing a relaxing atmosphere.

Germany

* Germany feature several popular indoor ski areas. The Alpincenter, Jever Skihalle and Snowtropolis all offer great indoor skiing opportunities among other features. Apres ski activities are given special detail at these locations.

Choosing the best travel package

If you intend to go on luxury travel tour and are looking for an affordable travel package, an online travel directory is the best place to find all necessary information, where online travel agents are ready to help you, by rewarding you with vacations and trips. The custom made travel packages will take care of all your needs even before you leave for the tour.

The exotic vacation may cause you disappointment if you are not able to afford for it. As luxury travel tour is usually expensive you should look for an affordable travel package. The major advantage of choosing the best travel package is that you will be treated as a VIP guest during your travel and you will not have any problem over exchange rates.

There is a great demand for vacation packages, luxury travel tour accommodations, hotel occupancy and business class air travel, among style and luxury conscious travelers. To satisfy these demanding customers and due to competition within the tourist travel industry, travel companies offer packages at competitive rates. The travel package includes various services ranging from renting luxury yachts to on-shore private visits and visit to places of tourist interest. Some packages also include rooms in top hotels, nice meals in restaurants with drinks, private guides, driver, excursion and transportation in air-conditioned luxury vehicles.

By building relationship and being loyal to the online travel agency you can get the best travel package as a reward. You can avail memberships with the travel clubs and by traveling to more places, you can win the loyalty points and get the benefit of free vacations or discounts. You have to select a perfect online travel specialist and suitable timing for finalizing the luxury travel deal. With the availability of several travel packages, you can choose a luxurious vacation and go out in style on a tight budget. By signing up online holiday deals, you can win special offers. With a good travel package, you can quickly and comfortably reach the holiday destination and also save your hard earned money. As a smart traveler, you can clinch a luxury travel tour deal waiting for you at affordable rates. Go for gold with a luxury travel tour travel package, and taste champagne on a cocktail budget.