NY Museums: Metropolitan Museum of Art

With a permanent collection containing over two million cultural treasures from six continents, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City is widely regarded as one of the most important museums in the world. Also known as The Met, this museum contains an extensive collection of permanent exhibits and several changing exhibit halls.

Museum-goers worldwide remark that of all the museums in New York City, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is by far the largest and most comprehensive. Visitors advise that you either leave a full day to explore this New York museum or else decide in advance which exhibits you'll see and which ones you want to leave for another day. Divided into nineteen separate sections ranging from ancient to contemporary art from a wide variety of cultures around the world, you're sure to find something that interests you here. At over one hundred forty years old, this is one of the oldest NYC museums still in operation. In addition to viewing its extensive collection of art, Metropolitan Museum of Art visitors can lunch in the Roof Garden, where a new single-artist sculptural exhibition is held every year.

Located on the eastern edge of Central Park in Manhattan on the Upper East Side, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of many NYC Museums on the famous "Museum Mile" along Fifth Avenue. At the intersection of 82nd Street and Fifth Avenue, it begins the mile between 82nd and 104th along Fifth Avenue, one of the densest displays of culture anywhere in the world. For instance, the Goethe Institute and German Cultural Center is located right next door, and just a few blocks down from that is the Neue Galerie New York, one of the pre-eminent displays of early 20th century German and Austrian art in the world. Visitors wishing to see these many museums in New York City should take public transportation or ask a cab to go to the Met. At least three subway stations are within walking distance of the museum, and as many as seven different bus lines leave you near enough to walk.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is home to works of art whose creation spans millenia and the globe. From Ancient Egyptian, Greco-Roman, Asian and Oceanic art, to art from the old masters of Europe, from American pastoralism to modern photography and everything in between, a variety of masterpieces are permanently installed here. An entire hall is dedicated to arms and armor, and another exhibition section contains only books, including bound art from masters like Durer and Athanasius Kircher. Jacques-Louis David's The Death of Socrates, Van Gogh's Self-Portrait with a Straw Hat and Vermeer's Young Woman with a Water Pitcher represent some of the many masterworks on exhibition in this New York Museum. Modern and contemporary art is represented both on the Rooftop Garden and in the 60,000 square foot Modern Art section of the museum. Containing masterpieces like Max Beckmann's Beginning, Jasper Johns's White Flag, and Picasso's Portrait of Gertrude Stein, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is clearly a treasure for the ages.

If you'd like to get your cultural fix in other ways, Metropolitan Museum of Art visitors can attend a variety of events, talks, lectures and performances on location. This New York museum offers extra educational programs for everyone, whether you like watching films, whether you'd prefer to attend a lecture by a well-known artist with a question-and-answer session or whether you'd like to enroll your child in a day-long arts program while you peruse the museum's exhibits. Also part of the Met's collection is in an off site location, the Cloisters, which is a Medieval-focused museum located in Upper Manhattan. Special events and talks are also held here on a weekly basis. Detailed information on special events held at both locations of the Metropolitan Museum of Art can be found on its official website.

After visiting the The Met or any nearby museums in New York City, let us know what you thought! You can upload your photos, videos, and reviews on our site and share your experience with other visitors of NYC Museums. Your content helps our community grow and improves it for everyone. Because of the wide variety of exhibits at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, we're sure you'll find something worth sharing. Whether you want to gush about a cool new exhibit, whether you want to express your opinion on a talk or whether you want review a piece of art that moved you, we welcome anything you'd like to share.  Wayland Myers

Holiday & Travel Guide For Jamaica

When you think of a holiday, what comes into mind? Glistening golden beaches? Tranquil picture perfect oceans, teaming with exotic fish? Well look no further than the island of Jamaica. Sitting right on the equator, the island boasts terrific sunny weather all year around, with rain typically falling only in the months of May, June, September and October.

This Island has everything for the perfect getaway for those who want to have a good time relaxing, as well as the holiday maker who is looking for a bit of adventure. Being the birth place of reggae, everything in Jamaica seems to move at a more relaxed and laid back pace, making it the best place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the modern rat race. There are many exciting and enthralling activities which a holiday maker can embark upon on the island of Jamaica, from diving and scuba diving to wind surfing and trips on boats. You can experience the best of the marine life in the area from both of these, and take in some really stunning scenes that lie just off the beaches all around the coast. Negril is one beach particularly recommended to try.

Swimming with dolphins is also a possibility in Jamaica. Many people find this a healing activity and jump at the chance to experience it. This can still be done in the wild around Jamaica, if you can find the tours that offer this. It is better, however, to head to Dolphin Cove at Treasure Reef, where you will be guaranteed the chance to swim with two dolphins, as well as experience other nature themed fun such as glass bottom boats, Shark and Parrot shows and a Jungle walk.

Other activities if you wish to be active include a fantastic tree top canopy tour. This takes you through history from when the island was first settled by the original inhabitants, to what we know as Jamaica today. This can be an interesting way to both learn and see some of the wildlife that is on offer in the Caribbean.

If just the thought of these activities gets you in a sweat, then there are also many more relaxing pastimes which are available on the island, including beach resorts supporting some top rated golf clubs and brilliantly relaxing spas. If the stunning scenery isn't enough to relax you, these will definitely make you forget about all of the stresses and strains of modern life. Jamaica really does have an underrated charm which is incomparable to most other places that you will be lucky enough to experience on holiday.

Another great aspect of Jamaica is the food, the birth place of 'Jerk' and not something that should be missed. Trying authentic jerk meat is one of the delicacies which should not be turned down. The authentic taste of an open fire and the slow fusion of spices combine on jerk meat to make one of the tastiest dishes out there, so why not try it where it was originally born as a concept, so you know you have had the best?

Happy Holidays  Trevor Butler

California: Culture And Leisure

High- and low-brow art enjoy comparable support here. For most people, the state's contributions to culture are the many blockbusters made by Hollywood movie studios or televised sitcoms shot on LA sound stages. This is art in unashamed pursuit of the almighty dollar, complete with tabloid scandals and giant movie billboards blotting out the Los Angeles sun.

But another creativity reveals itself through the state's history of landscape painting, portraiture, and 20th-century avant-garde art. Modern artists John McLaughlin and Elmer Bischoff, and ceramists Peter Voulkos and Robert Arneson have all made international reputations.

So have a few pioneers of photographic art, such as Imogen Cunningham and Ansel Adams. British artist David Hockney lived here for many years, capturing the state's sun-soaked image on canvas. California is also home to some of the world's finest art museums, including LACMA, the Oakland Museum, the San Francisco MOMA, and the two J Paul Getty Museums.

Victorian architecture in the Bay Area has always been a major tourist attraction, as have the many historic buildings across the state designed by Californians such as Willis Polk and Bernard Maybeck.

Visiting designers Frank Lloyd Wright and Daniel Burnham have left their mark here, too. Recent influential architects include residents Frank Gehry and Joe Esherick.

The state has seen many writers over the years, including Nobel prize-winner John Steinbeck and Beat authors Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsburg. The tradition continues with Armistead Maupin (Tales of the City), detective novelist Sue Grafton, and Amy Tan (The Joy Luck Club), among others.

Music also plays a major role, whether the work of the cities' orchestras or rock musicians. This is where the Beach Boys, Janis Joplin, the Grateful Dead, and Red Hot Chili Peppers launched their careers.

Californians love to eat out, and chefs Wolfgang Puck and Alice Waters have made their name promoting "California cuisine"- a blend of local ingredients and Asian techniques.

This, combined with a selection of local world class wines, is proof that Californians take care of their palates. Yet residents are also body-conscious, aware that they live among the "beautiful people" who come here with dreams of film stardom.

So they become slaves to the gym or take up a sport. On any weekend, in various parts of the state, you will see cyclists, surfers, in-line skaters, even white-water rafters. Californians are eager supporters of professional baseball and football, but they like to be active themselves. Luckily, surrounded by some of the nation's most beautiful countryside and the gentlest climate, they don't have to go far to enjoy a satisfying outdoor experience.  Kristie Haller

Finding the Ideal Beach Destination in Florida

Florida is an ever-popular destination for beach holidays, boasting a beautiful coastline and plenty of fun things to see and do. While the state is certainly famous for its sunshine and stretches of sand, you may be wondering what else there is do there - and where exactly would be best for your dream getaway.

The state is home to an array of wonderful beach destinations and you'll find that booking Florida holidays holds the promise of exciting activities and places to visit in addition to the renowned coastline.

A St Petersburg beach holiday is just one of the great breaks on offer in the state. This seductive suntrap holds the Guinness World Record for having the highest number of consecutive days of sunshine, which cannot fail to impress sun-seekers! Alongside that wonderful weather, St Petersburg plays host to 35 miles of white sand beaches, which provide the perfect place for relaxing and soaking up those rays.

While it may be hard to tear yourself away from the beach here, if you manage to do so you'll find the destination has plenty more to offer visitors. Golfing fans will discover they have some 50 top courses to choose from, while cyclists will be treated to a range of exciting trails to explore on two wheels.

Those keen to challenge themselves may want to give the Pinellas Trail a go. Spanning some 43 miles, this cycling trail is ideal for blazing through the Florida landscape.

Alternatively, why not make the most of the water and indulge in a spot of kayaking or canoeing? Swimming with manatees in Crystal River is another of the fantastic water-based experiences on offer - and certainly one of the most magical and memorable.

If you're eager to experience St Petersburg's cultural landscape, however, there are a number of fascinating places you can visit. Art lovers may be particularly interested in the Salvador Dali Museum, which houses more than 1,000 pieces by the Spanish surrealist. Simply browse the works in your own time or, to learn more about the artist, take a guided tour.

For an altogether different experience of St Petersburg, head to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. This quiet-sounding destination is actually a combination of exhilarating attractions, ranging from incredible wildlife to thrilling rollercoasters!

Indeed, here you can see awe-inspiring creatures such as the Bengal tiger and orangutans, as well as go on some of the most impressive rides in the US. One of these - the SheiKra - holds the title of the being the country's first floorless rollercoaster.

Taking holidays to Sarasota is another great way to experience Florida and you'll find some absolutely fantastic beaches here. Indeed, many of these have won awards for their gorgeous clear water and soft white sand.

Sarasota's islands are also well worth a visit - especially if you are seeking some quirky experiences during your break. By heading to Anna Maria Island, you can try the latest adventure sport - horse surfing. Local experts will take you through the motions, which are sure to make for holiday memories you will never forgot!

However, if horse surfing doesn't take your fancy, why not spend some time getting to know some of Sarasota's most important history? The destination is known as the home of the American circus - something that stuck in the 1920s after top circuses moved their acts there.

Among these were Barnum & Bailey Circus and the Ringling Bros, who are known not just for their acts but for their impact on the local economy too. Today, you can browse the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art to learn more.

While you can find out something of the circus's history here, you can also see a staggering number of important artistic works. The collection was donated by John Ringling upon his death and comprises 21 galleries, featuring paintings, sculptures and sketches from across the globe.

You'll also have the chance to see the world's largest miniature circus, as well as stroll around the beautiful rose garden.

USA holidays are great for those seeking beach breaks - and for getaways in the sun, Florida cannot be beaten. No matter where you choose to spend your time in the state, you're certain to have a wonderful trip.  Dipika Patel

Amazing Reasons To Visit Canada

Canada is a North American country which has three territories and ten provinces. Its border is the longest in the world. It is a bilingual nation with both English and French as official languages. It is one of the world's highly developed countries and has one of the highest standards of living in the world. Travelers who wish to visit Canada through cheap flights can see the expanse of its natural beauty. It has unparalleled possession of mountains, glaciers, secluded lakes, and verdant forests. Its cosmopolitan cities, on the other hand are friendly and multi-cultural. As one of the world's most livable countries, people with varying interests will not be disappointed.

When you decide to visit Canada, travel agents will help you prepare your itinerary. You can go to different places in Canada that has rich history and amazing natural beauty. The following are some of the reasons why you should visit Canada:

• Canadian cities are spectacular. The most popular destinations for visitors who take cheap flights to Canada are Vancouver, Calgary, Niagara Falls, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, Halifax, and Victoria.
• Canada has many natural wonders. Some of Canada's most spectacular natural attractions are Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks, Dinosaur Provincial Park, Nahanni National Park Reserve, Cabot Trail, and the Niagara Falls.
• Canada is not an expensive place for vacation. The Canadian dollar currency is less than the US dollar currency, so the prices are reasonable for travelers who have booked a vacation with travel agents. Ottawa has been ranked as the most affordable city in North America.

• You can choose from an array of outdoor activities. The most popular outdoor activities are camping, skiing or snowboarding, golfing, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, mountain climbing, kayaking, canoeing, and snowshoeing.
• You can participate in many events and festivals in Canada. Events and festivals that you can witness and participate are the Celebration of Light, the Calgary Stampede, the Edmonton Folk Musical Festival, the Toronto International Film Festival, the Canadian Tulip Festival, the Quebec Winter Carnival, and the Celtic Colours International Festival.
• With cheap flights, you can visit Canada in winter, spring, summer or fall. Whatever season of the year, travelers can enjoy a wide range of activities all year round.
• Canada is an ideal vacation destination for the whole family. The whole family can enjoy a huge variety of fun outdoor activities and events.

• Canada has innate diversity. Travelers with different interests can enjoy the diversity of cultures, climates, and landscape that Canada has to offer. Your travel agents will help you see Canada's beautiful natural landscapes from coastlines to rugged mountains and sparkling lakes.
• Canada has many interesting man-made attractions. Some of the interesting man-made attractions are the CN Tower, Quebec City, and world-class museums and galleries.  Phil Durell

Best Museums in New York: New Museum of Contemporary Art

Like the Whitney Museum, the New Museum of Contemporary Art is dedicated to innovation and newness in art. Unlike the Whitney, however, the New Museum expresses that dedication by focusing specifically on contemporary art rather than on the notion of "avant-garde." If you're interested in catching the work of emerging artists working on fascinating new projects the New Museum might be your ideal location to visit.

Housed in a new building, which according to the architects was designed to make the shape of the interior transparent, this New York Museum has been noted by visitors and critics for the quality of light inside due to windows in unusual locations. This museum was founded in 1977, when it was the only museum of all on the New York museums list to focus on contemporary art. Over the past few years in existence at its location in the hip, artistic neighborhood of the Bowery, the New Museum New York has begun the careers of artists from countries all over the world.

Located at the heart of the Bowery, the New Museum New York is situated among a number of small galleries, museums, art house cafes and little stores in this (admittedly gentrifying) creative neighborhood. Even if it may not be affordable for most to live in any more, the Bowery nevertheless is home to a variety of fascinating locales. From the haunted Merchant House Museum to the Lower East Side Tenement Museum just around the corner, and other interesting neighborhoods in the area, visitors to this area are sure to find something interesting to do before and after their museum visit. Additionally, shopping at nearby South Broadway in SoHo provides a fun opportunity to get away from the contemporary art scene and into the contemporary fashion world. Trains to the New Museum are numerous, but the best one to take would be the J into the Bowery stop. However, other train stops near the New Museum are at Prince St., 2nd Ave - Lower East Side, Broadway-Lafayette, Grand St and Spring Street-Lexington. The lines serving these stops are the B, D, F, M, N, R, 4 and 6, so there are plenty of options for train travel to this New York museum.

As for the works of art you can see at the New Museum, the museum has hosted wonderful exhibits of contemporary art from all over the world. In the past 5 years the New Museum has exhibited art from more than countries from all corners of the earth. The wide variety make it a good chance that there is at least something that you'll like here. If you are a fan of modern or conceptual art, you are to find the New Museum to be a worthwhile experience. The radical sculptures, paintings, and mixed media work showcased here is sure to be interesting and informative.

Because it is solely focused on showing contemporary artists, the New Museum New York is unlike many New York museums in that it doesn't have a permanent collection. It is, like its seven-story architecture would suggest, simply a luminous space for the always changing pieces of art created by artists working today. At any given time, thousands of these works may inhabit the space of the New Museum. Because the galleries and exhibitions are always in flux, the New Museum is unlike any other museums in New York City in that you can always come back to see what's new.

We encourage visitors of the New Museum of Contemporary Art to share their reviews, photos and videos of the museum with the broader NYC Museums community. The New Museum, more than any other on our New York museums list, is designed to spark conversation. So respond, then post your response at NYC Museums! We welcome any thoughts and feelings you might have toward a particular exhibit. Everything you share on NYC Museums helps our community enjoy the arts and culture of New York City, so share your content and help us add to the NYC Museums community.  Wayland Myers

Hawaii Islands and Hawaii Hotels

Beautiful white sand beaches and cold, clear, blue waters, only one summer destination comes to mind -Hawaii! One way to truly enjoy the beautiful of Hawaii is to go island hopping. As a matter of fact, one out of three Hawaiian tourists visits at least two or more islands during their whole vacation. But before you start packing your bags, here's a bit of information about the 6 Hawaii islands.

If you are looking for beach resorts and all sorts of fun activities, then Maui Island or the Valley Isle, the second largest Hawaii island, has got it all for you. Here get to enjoy watching the beautiful sunsets; eat delicious food; shop till you drop in a multitude of stores and art galleries; enjoy swimming in less crowded beaches; go diving or snorkelling and stay in luxurious resorts and hotels like the following: 5-star hotel 'Four Seasons Resort Maui'in Wailea, 'Honua Kai Resort & Spa' and 'Kaanapali Alii' in Lahaina, 'Maui Coast Hotel' in Kihei and 'Hana Kai Maui' in Hana.

Next is the island of Oahu. Here you can find the famous Honolulu and Waikiki beach and the infamous Pearl Harbor. Shopping, dining and partying are some of what you can do here. You can also go sight-seeing to famous tourist attractions which includes the Polynesian Cultural Center and the Sea Life Park. Aside from that you can also try snorkelling in the crystal-waters of Hanauma Bay; explore the world of the ocean through submarine dive or maybe set sail and dine on a cruise. When staying in Oahu, you can check out the following hotels: 'Aqua Bamboo & Spa', 'The Kahala Hotel and Resort' and 'Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort' all located in Honolulu, 'Turtle Bay Resort' in north shore Oahu and 'JW Marriott Ihilani Resort and Spa' in Kapolei.

Known as the Garden Isle, Kauaiis the fourth largest and oldest Hawaii island. This island is filled with luscious greens, unique tropical flowers, hidden waterfalls, pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This island is also considered as the most romantic island and the "wettest spot on earth" with all its cascading waterfalls. When staying in Kauai, you can check out the following hotels: 'Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas'and 'Hanalei Bay Resort' in Princeville, 'Kauai Beach Resort and Aqua Boutique' in Lihue, 'Aston Islander on the Beach' in Kapaa and the 'Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa' in Poipu.

If however you enjoy having your own privacy, then staying in Lanai Island suits you best. They say that lodging here is like staying at your very own private island. This island offers its tourist with a combination of adventure with its diving spots of shipwrecks stuck on corals and elegance with pristine resorts, high-class dining, golf, and several unique spa services. When staying in Lanai, you can check out the following hotels: 'Hotel Lanai and Lanai City Grille' in Lanai City, 'Four Seasons Resort Lana'i' at Manele Bay and 'Four Seasons Resort Lana'i, The Lodge' at Koele

Molokai Island or the Hidden Isle, is the "most Hawaiian Island" among all the other islands because most of its residents are of Hawaiian decent. This island is considered the least place for tourists due to its old lifestyle; streets without lights and a few cars and no fast food restaurants. In this island you will the longest white sand beaches, ancient fish ponds, and lush verdant valleys perfect for outdoor adventures. When staying in Molokai, you can check out the following hotels: 'Sheraton Molokai Lodge Beach Village' and 'Molokai Komohana' in Maunaloa, 'Molokai Hilltop Cottage & West End Studio', 'Aqua Hotel Molokai' and 'Ka Hale Mala' in Kaunakakai.

Last stop is the Big Island. Yep, as the name suggests, this is the biggest among the other Hawaii Islands. This island is home to Mount Kilauea, the most active volcano in the world and this island is famous for its black, green and red sand beaches. Other activities that you can do here includes golf; scuba diving with the Manta Rays; mountain biking and hiking. When staying in the Big Island, you can check out the following hotels: 'Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows', 'Keauhou Kona Surf And Racquet Club Resort' and 'Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort' in Kailua-Kona, 'Kalani Oceanside Retreat' in Pahoa and 'Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel' in Hilo.

So that's it. Now you have an idea on what you can do on each island and where to stay in case you have chosen to go island hopping. There are a lot of Hawaii Hotels ready to accommodate you and your family and no matter what package you choose, the islands of Hawaii will surely make your stay enjoyable and unforgettable.  Joanna Alcachupas

Florida's Beautiful Keys

There is a mystique about America's southern most playground, the Florida Keys. And you better prepare to have a tropical drink handy and sample Key Lime treats while you are here.

Sometimes known as the Conch Republic*, the Florida Keys are a chain-like cluster of more than a thousand low-lying islands that stretch across azure waters. Scarcely a foot above sea level in some places, the Keys dip approximately 220-miles, curving south and west of mainland Florida.

Key Largo is the world's diving capitol and where fresh water from the Everglades converges with the salt water of Florida Bay. Stretching beside the Keys, about six miles seaward is a barrier reef and off Key West lays the only coral reef left in the continental United States.

Key West, just 90-miles from Cuba, is indeed the southern most point of the United States and a picturesque slice of paradise. At the edge of the deep turquoise water are small boats alongside yachts, blue and white, bobbing up and down. They rest a few feet from the surf beating quietly against the shoreline.

We arrived here by way of Miami. The Keys begin at the southeastern tip of the Florida peninsula about 15 miles south of Miami. We got onto the Florida Keys Scenic Highway, also known as the "Overseas Highway," a drive offering dramatic views of the tranquil waters of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other. Among the forty-three bridges that we cross is the famed Seven Mile Bridge

The Seven Mile Bridge connects the Middle and Lower Keys, spanning a channel between the Gulf of Mexico and the Florida Strait, the bridge carries two-lanes of US highway 1. With 39 expansion joints separating its cement sections, the Seven Mile Bridge is believed to be the world's longest segmental bridge.

Before World War II coming to the Keys was reserved for the wealthy and meant traveling an unhurried ferry for much of the trip, then in 1934 after the city of Key West declared bankruptcy, the Federal Emergency Relief Administration stepped in. In an effort to resurrect Key West's economy, the Federal Government began building highways and bridges connecting Miami to Key West

Today, more than 35% of the population in the Keys lives on Key West. A leisurely walk along Duval Street takes us past interesting cafes and shops, but the Key West Trolley Tour was the best way to see the town's well-known sights which include Ernest Hemingway's Home and the Truman summer White House.

America's charming gulf coast and Florida's beautiful keys are indisputably captivating and a world away from the rest of the country.

End

* The Conch Republic is a micro-nation declared as a lighthearted secession of the city of Key West from the United States in April 1982. Subsequently, the term "Conch Republic" expanded to refer to all of the Florida Keys. The Conch Republic celebrates Independence Day every April 23 as part of a week-long celebration and many residents fly the Conch Republic flag.  Kathy Manney

San Pancho - A Beautiful Village In Mexico

San Pancho, also known as San Francisco, Nayarit, is beautiful village in Mexico found along the beaches of Pacific Ocean. A family-friendly community framed by jungles and the Sierra Madre Mountains, San Pancho combines the exotic feel of a foreign culture with small town charm. Without losing its identity, it has also embraced luxury with a growing number of resorts, shops, and restaurants dotting its streets. The village is considered part of the Riviera Nayarit, a line of picturesque coastal communities that have become an appealing destination for many travelers. Its isolated but convenient location gives visitors the perfect opportunity to get away from the noise and bustle of everyday life.

Less than an hour drive from the international airport at Puerto Vallarta, the small village, or pueblo, is only accessible by a bridge which leads visitors to a tranquil, pristine town of only 1,600. San Pancho has retained its own unique character and traditions, setting it apart from the more commercialized resort towns like Puero Vallarta and others. The village is still a vibrant fishing community, accented with lively restaurants and venues, both rustic and contemporary. Authentic live music weaves through the warm air of most evenings, and tourists and villagers mingle along the streets. Climate is pleasant, with warm, clear weather allowing for year round enjoyment.

Travelers will find a wide range of activities and accommodations to enhance their vacation. Because of a strong undertow, the focus of the town centers on creative pursuits rather water activities. This creative vein adds flavor to the region through galleries, studios, and charming shops while also encouraging photography and writing. But non-artists have plenty to enjoy as well. The local flora and fauna providing breathtaking walks, and untouched beaches add serenity to the atmosphere. More adventurous activities include horseback riding, hiking, surfing, fishing, and swimming. San Pancho's location also offers easy day trips to surrounding areas, opening up a new array of adventures. Accommodations include high class resorts and affordable inns. Romantic bed and breakfast inns are another great option for those looking for a more intimate setting.

Many travelers are afraid of venturing into Mexico, wary from the news reports of drug cartel violence and murders. San Pancho, however, is a safe destination where violent crimes are almost unheard of. The village provides 24-hour police patrols and well-lit streets, and its isolated location is far away from the intense drug cartel activity centered around the border. The community is small and proud, with strong family-oriented sensibilities " a place where everyone knows everyone's name. Days are lively but safe, and the nights are quiet and peaceful. If travelers are still nervous, there are two numbers to remember " Mexico's equivalent of 911 can be reached through 066 from any standard line and 080 from Mexican cell phones.

San Pancho is the perfect place to experience the beauty and culture of a Mexican village. Traditions still thrive under the shades of jungles and mountains, while still providing the comforts and luxuries of other resort towns. Long stretches of beaches and waterfront border the charming village, and its streets are filled with charming restaurants and shops. With its convenient location, travelers can enjoy all the many attractions this pueblo has to offer.  James Rivington

An Afternoon on Grouse Mountain

Vancouver is a wonderful city, no matter what time of the year you happen to visit whether by choice or by necessity. We were there in May following a trip on the Canadian Pacific from Toronto. We had booked tours to take us to places to see, as we were limited in time opportunities.

Grouse Mountain was on the list as well as the Capilano Bridge and fisheries. Before leaving home, we had checked out the YouTube videos on some of the places we wanted to see. Grouse Mountain was certainly one of them. It looked like the cable car ride was worth doing. The coach was on time and not overly full so a pleasant start to the day. I believe to climb the mountain is a 2.9 km walk. Certainly not for the fainthearted!

The cable car parked in the loading dock looked harmless enough, but a fear of heights and being a closet claustrophobia sufferer meant that it was a big step forward for me. The car had quite a few people in it so it was with some trepidation that I joined them with my husband as backup. It started on the upward trip gently enough, but coming to the support cable poles did a bit of a swing that had me holding on for grim life. The views from the car would be stunning, but unfortunately, the day had dawned grey and there was mist or clouds developing, as we got closer to the top. Then another support pole with the subsequent swing!

Docking at the top done easily and we stepped out to see what was available on the mountain. We wandered through the snow, the wooden chainsaw carvings half exposed; friends who had visited a couple of weeks previously said the snow was considerably higher than when we were there. They were big statues as well! We found our way to the grizzly bears enclosure, but of course, as winter was just starting to leave, all we saw was dark mounds in the snow through the mist! It was cold!

Leaving the bears we passed a lot of snow-making machines parked ready for the new season, I thought rather ironically as we coped with the snow and cold of the present one. Then we came upon the lumberjack show, which we sat down to watch, mist making it difficult to see clearly. Nonetheless, we enjoyed watching the men atop poles, standing on boards sticking out at right angles, chopping the top off. Definitely scary but interesting. Leaving there, we wandered back to the clubhouse to get warm as we were freezing. We found the food to be a little disappointing, but the warmth inside definitely wonderful. All too soon, it was back to the cable car to return down the mountain where the temperatures were much warmer!  Maman Wilson

Famous Places to Visit in France

There are quite a lot of famous places to visit in France. Many people get confused at which are the best places to see when they are visiting France for the first time. Visiting all the best places is not possible in a single trip because there are just too many places of interest and attractions in France. If this is your first vacation trip to France and you are confused about the popular travel places, here is a list of the top travel places that will give you a unique travel experience and many wonderful memories.

La Tour Eiffel

Built by Gustave Eiffel in 1889, this tower is without any doubt among the most popular travel places in the whole of France. A visit to France would certainly be incomplete with a tour of this beautiful tower that is situated in Paris on the Champ de Mars.

Fontainebleau Castle and Forest

The Fontainebleau forest comprises 25 thousand hectares of forest which dates back to the 12th century. This forest is the most beautiful and one of the largest forests in France. Different types of visitors indulge in different activities when they visit this French tourist attraction. Activities that can be undertaken here include climbing, hiking and wildlife observation. The Fontainebleau forest is one of the most famous places that tourists love to visit when holidaying in France.

Notre Dame de Paris

Notre Dame de Paris which is also commonly just known as Notre Dame is a gorgeous gothic cathedral which was built around the 1100s. This cathedral is one of the most famous places in Paris and is visited by well over 10 million people in a year.

Versailles and its Chateau

Versailles is one of the most popular travel places in France because of its Chateau. Versailles used to a small unimportant country village before and when the Chateau was built. However, when Louis XIV came to Paris, this small village became the centre of political power. Today, it is not only famous for its buildings, but also symbolizes the absolute monarchy of the Ancien Regime.

Arc du Triomphe

This is a gorgeous monument in Paris which is situated at the western edge of the Champs-Elysees and therefore a must visit place in France. This Arc was built in the 1800s by Napoleon. This monument is beautifully decorated with rose marble.

These are some of the popular places that you can visit when you are on a vacation trip to France.  Yuriy M