Jon Favreau All Ears For Disney’s ‘Magic Kingdom’ Feature Film
Jon Favreau All Ears For Disney’s ‘Magic Kingdom’ Feature Film — Thu Nov 11 00:55:54 UTC 2010 EXCLUSIVE: Jon Favreau is in talks to direct Magic Kingdom, the Disney film with the premise that the attractions at the venerable theme park come to life. The studio set the project up nearly two years ago and got a draft by Battlestar Galactica’s Ron…
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Jon Favreau All Ears For Disney’s ‘Magic Kingdom’ Feature Film
Tonight: Long Beach Oktoberfest
Tonight: Long Beach Oktoberfest — Fri Oct 29 07:15:14 UTC 2010 Plus: The Haunted Garden, Diner of the Dead, more Halloween picks about: Commercial Attractions Halloween Haunted Attractions holiday Oktoberfest Opinions
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Tonight: Long Beach Oktoberfest
Duh LA | Embrace Your Inner Tourist – Los Angeles Visitor’s Guide
Lesson One: Highlights And Attractions 101
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Duh LA | Embrace Your Inner Tourist – Los Angeles Visitor’s Guide
Caribbean Attractions – Best Things to Do on Vacation
The Caribbean’s year-round warm and sunny weather makes the region a popular place to vacation, but it is more than just the warmth that draws people and keeps them coming back.
Visitors on a seven-day cruise often stop at four or five destinations and take advantage of the chance to get off ship and walk around the island. Vacationers who visit a week or more will be tempted to get off the beach to break up their day in the sun.
But no matter how they get there, vacationers will find that the Caribbean often means a chance to experience unique historical, cultural and natural attractions. Here is a quick list of some of the favorites.
Beaches.Of course the beaches are a big draw. But not every destination has great beaches. What makes most Caribbean beaches unique is the combination of fine white sand, palm trees overhead and the distinctive blue-green of the ocean water. The great ones are wide, long and have beautiful vistas. Some of the better beach destinations include Aruba, Barbados, Dominican Republic, Tortola (British Virgin Islands) and St. Maarten.
Recreation. Fishing, sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving and other water sports are all popular. Underwater shipwrecks and numerous colorful fish in the warm Caribbean waters make snorkeling and scuba especially good choices at almost any island.
Shopping. Many destinations are known for duty-free and sometime tax-free shopping. Prices are often discounted. U.S., Canadian and British citizens all face various limits on how much they can bring home without facing a tax.
History.Every island has a connection to Europe because of colonization going back centuries. The biggest and most famous is Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, which dates back nearly 500 hundred years and includes winding cobblestone streets, massive forts and interesting architecture. The shopping is good, too.
Nature. Climb the long cascading water falls at Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica, snorkel with sting ray at Sting Ray City or swim with dolphins in Cancun, the Bahamas, Jamaica and other locations. Other islands such as Barbados give visitors a chance to snorkel with giant sea turtles.
Adventuring.Cave tubing in Belize is the No. 1 adventure trip in this Central American country that is a common stop for western Caribbean cruises. Canopying, which requires gliding on a zip line from one tree to another, is popular in Costa Rica. Dominican Republic has whitewater rafting.
Ancient past.Mayan ruins in Mexico and Central America are a great opportunity for families and anyone else interested in education. The massive ruins at Chichen Itza are accessible as part of a day trip for anyone visiting Cancun. Numerous other ruins are accessible throughout the region.
Caribbean vacationers will find many opportunities to learn, have fun and experience unique attractions that will make their time there more memorable.
For more information:
Click Caribbean attractions for the most popular attractions and excursions on each island.
Scott Bateman is a professional journalist with 29 years of experience as a reporter and editor. He publishes a Caribbean vacation guide with articles produced from nine trips to the region.
The Must See Attractions In Barcelona, Spain
If you think you are in need of a vacation, then Barcelona Spain is just the place you need to pay a visit. Barcelona is a place with history, culture, customs and excitement. Although Barcelona is full of culture and history there are fun things to do in the city as well. One thing that comes to buying it surfing along the Costa Brava. The waves are big, the winds are strong and you can surf for miles. Many people come to this area for some great surfing because of the waves. You will find that the beaches are just as beautiful as anywhere else in the world. The white Sandy beaches with the blue waters in the background are inviting.
Sailing along the Costa Brava is just as much fun. You can rent a sailboat or have a guide take you. The coastline is beautiful from the water and Barcelona has a beautiful coastline that can be enjoyed from a sailboat. If sailing is in for you, you might enjoy a boat Regatta race. Many of the sailing clubs hold Regatta races for visitors to see. If you have never seen a Regatta race you must see one why you are in Barcelona. If you have never done any sailing or surfing you can sign up and take classes while you are in Barcelona. This is just going to make your vacation more enjoyable.
The Mediterranean climate, water temperatures and sunny skies is why people travel to Barcelona, Spain. Barcelona is really about one thing and that is fun and excitement. After you have had a day in the sun, you can enjoy some fine cuisine at one of the many restaurants in Barcelona. You will find that the restaurants have America cuisine, Italian cuisine, French cuisine and Spanish cuisine. Whatever your taste is you will find a restaurant in Barcelona that has just what you want.
If you are looking for a little bit of nightlife in Barcelona, you will find that after the Sun goes down everybody gets out and enjoy some dancing, music and a few drinks. Although the fun and excitement starts a little later at night, you have nowhere to be the next day so enjoy some fun with the locals. You will see how they dance, how they enjoy the night and what they do to relax after a long day. After a night out, you might need a nice day relaxing by the pool or on the beach soaking up some sunrays.
One thing is for sure when you take your holiday to Barcelona your going to have exciting days, exciting nights and see so many different things. Traveling and vacations are not just about seeing historical sites they are about having fun, doing the things that you remember. You can plan your trip to Barcelona and plan to do just about anything. Take some time to enjoy the beaches, take some time to see the sights, but always make sure to have fun.
For more holiday articles visit our website at cheap holidays 24. You might also want to read the article Visit Barcelona, Spain For Excitement.
Fun New Family Theme Parks and Attractions in Central Florida
Along with popular theme attractions such as the Disney theme parks, there are now a whole host of other new places to get acquainted with. SeaWorld has a new water park called Aquatica, Universal Studios has a new motion simulator ride called the Simpsons and CityWalk has a new karaoke club where you’re the star.
Aquatica is the newest water park to open in Orlando and is part of the SeaWorld family theme parks, its a unique water park where you can play alongside the sea life. Set on 59 acres in the heart of Orlando, this water park offers you the chance to slide down an eight lane racing slide, relax along a lazy river or stretch out on a patch of their 80,000 feet white sand beach. You’ll also get a look at their Commerson’s Dolphins as you drop through a 300 foot long enclosed water slide that goes right through the lagoon where they’re kept.
SeaWorld itself has many wonderful animal shows such as ‘Believe’ featuring Shamu and the rest of their Killer Whale family. There’s Clyde & Seamore Take Pirate Island – The Sea Lion and Otter Show which also features a huge walrus and Blue Horizons the new Dolphin and False Killer Whale show. Blue Horizons has a unique twist as it also includes beautiful birds and acrobatic fliers. If it’s a thrill you’re seeking Kraken is sure to deliver. It is the fastest roller coaster at any Sea World park and the first floor less coaster in this area, it twists and turns you all over, even going upside down, it also has a 145 foot drop. Special events like Viva La Musica, a Latin festival held on the weekends during the spring features popular Latin Artist and food, they also include Latin Dance demonstrations and is a family favorite. Guided tours of the backstage areas of most shows can be arranged for additional fees. You can also schedule to have a meal with Shamu meaning you can eat buffet style backstage or poolside depending on which meal your prefer. The Makahiki Luau is a wonderful mix of food and fun featuring Polynesian food, rhythmic dancing and a fire dancing, even the kids get to join in at one point and try their hand at the rhythmic dancing, they have a special show at Christmas.
Universal Studios has a new ride opening this spring called The Simpsons at Universal Studios. The ride is based on all the characters you know from the show, join Homer and the family on their misadventures as they head out to spend the day at the fictional amusement park called Krustyland. This motion simulator ride is projected onto an 80 foot dome and gives you the feeling that you are actually in the car with the Simpson family as they go through the park and town.
Also recently opened at Universal Studios CityWalk is their CityWalk’s Rising Star, a different kind of karaoke club where you can sing with a live band and back up singers. They also have a top 10 challenge where participants compete for park passes and other prizes.
Attractions Of The State Of New York
The state of New York is home to many unique attractions. It is full of small towns, farmland and beautiful scenery scattered over 11 different regions.
The Central-Leatherstocking region of New York is rich in history and beautiful landscapes. Both the Farmers’ Museum in Cooperstown and the Baseball Hall of Fame are located there. You can learn the art and history of beer making on a tour of Saranac Brewery in Utica. For something completely different, you can visit Howe Caverns or Secret Caverns and see incredible underground stone formations. The world’s smallest church is in Oneida. Don’t miss the Cherry Valley Museum with its selection of 17th and 18th Century clothing.
The Adirondack region contains thousands of lakes, ponds, and hiking trails. You can hike along the Ausable Chasm or go fishing in the Ausable River. You can explore a remote wilderness area with a guide. You can also visit the Black River for rafting and Lake Champlain for swimming. Lake George features water sports, as well as the 36 foot tall statue of Uncle Sam.
The Chautauqua-Allegheny region has many well-preserved Victorian homes. You’ll also find in this area the Panama Rocks and the 1891 Fredonia Opera House. Jamestown is Lucille Ball’s hometown. It has a museum full of memories from her and Desi Arnaz’s life together.
The Capital-Saratoga region is noted for the historic Capitol in Albany, as well as covered bridges, woodlands, farms, or church steeples against a bright blue sky. In Albany you can see Nipper, the giant dog sculpture that is the trademark for RCA. You can visit Schenectady’s Stockade, a Dutch Village settled some 300 years ago.
Waterfalls, mountains, forests, and streams are all part of the Catskills region. Bethel, home of the 1969 Woodstock Music and Arts Festival, now host a variety of musical events each summer. There is also the world’s largest kaleidoscope, Catskill Game Farm, Zoom Flume Water Park and a number of European-style wineries.
The Finger Lakes offers the great outdoors, wonderful heritage tours, and unlimited opportunities to feed the mind, body and spirit. The George Eastman house and the Sciencenter are just two of the region’s attractions.
Everyone, especially honeymooners, has heard about Niagara Falls. Other attractions in the Greater Niagara region include Six Flags Darien Lake Theme Park, Letchworth State Park, and the Metrorail system in downtown Buffalo. You can also visit the Jell-O museum in LeRoy.
The Hudson River region features President Franklin Roosevelt’s estate in Hyde Park. Newburgh is the site of General George Washington’s headquarters. The restaurants in the area are legendary, as is Hudson Valley wine. The beauty of the region has inspired artists for hundreds of years, as well as such writers as Thomas Jefferson.
The Long Island region has 118 mile of beaches. At its eastern tip is the historic Montauk Lighthouse, commissioned by George Washington. You can camp nearby on the beach at Hither Hills State Park and get up early to watch the beautiful sunrise. The island is steeped maritime heritage and features national laboratory science museum and others, zoos, and working farms.
The Thousand Islands region features nearly 2,000 islands. There you can enjoy power boating, sailing, whitewater rafting, fishing, golfing, tennis and hiking. Boldt Castle is set on an island fashioned into the shape of a heart and is a monument to a real-life love story.
Read more from Joe Goertz at: myoutdoor-magazine.com
50 Offbeat Florida Attractions
An ancient Spanish monastery, spiritualist camp, castle made entirely of coral, undersea lodge, bat tower, seven mile bridge, Navy SEAL museum and other unique curiosities can all be found in the Sunshine State for those travelers who like to stray off the beaten path. Below are 50 of the most offbeat attractions in Florida:
African Queen – Key Largo, Florida
The marina at the Holiday Inn Key Largo (Mile Marker 100) is home to the original boat used in the classic 1951 movie, The African Queen, which was directed by legendary director John Huston and starred Humphrey Bogart, Katherine Huston and Robert Morley.
Ancient Spanish Monastery – North Miami Beach, Florida
Built in Segovia, Spain, in 1141, the Spanish Monastery is the oldest building in the Western Hemisphere. Newspaper tycoon, William Randolph Hearst, had the entire monastery dismantled and sent to the United States in the 1920s where it serves today as St. Bernard de Clairvaux Episcopal Church.
Big Cat Rescue – Tampa, Florida
The world’s largest big cat rescue and sanctuary, Big Cat Rescue is home to lions, tigers, cougars, leopards, bobcats, ocelots, servals, lynx, caracals and other exotic cats. Guided educational tours of Big Cat Rescue are available.
Blue Hole – Big Pine Key, Florida
The largest body of fresh water in the Florida Keys, the Blue Hole is an old rock quarry created during the construction of the Florida East Coast Railway, according to legend. Today, the Blue Hole is home to alligators, turtles, fish, ducks and a variety of wading birds. The Blue Hole is located at Mile Marker 30.5 (bayside).
Burt Reynolds & Friends Museum – Jupiter, Florida
A monument to actor Burt Reynolds’ massive ego, the Burt Reynolds & Friends Museum contains a collection of awards and memorabilia from his movie and TV career.
Butterfly World – Coconut Creek, Florida
One of South Florida’s top tourist destinations, Butterfly World is the world’s largest butterfly aviary – home to more than 80 butterfly species and 5,000 butterflies.
Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp – Cassadaga, Florida
A Historic Spiritualist Camp founded in 1894, Cassadaga is the oldest active religious community in the Southeastern United States and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Christ of the Deep – Key Largo, Florida
The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, “America’s First Undersea Park,” is home to the famous nine-foot-tall bronze “Christ of the Deep” statue, which lies 25 feet beneath the ocean in the Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary.
Citrus Tower – Clermont, Florida
Although these days you will definitely view more subdivisions than citrus trees, you can still ride the elevator to an observation deck 226 feet above the rolling hills of Clermont for a spectacular glimpse of the surrounding area.
Coral Castle – Homestead, Florida
How did one individual endeavor to procure and sculpt more than 1,100 tons of coral rock into a “fantasy world carved out of stone” using only homemade tools? The secrets still lie within Coral Castle, “America’s Stonehenge,” the bizarre masterpiece of obsessive genius Ed Leedskalnin, which was built over a 28-year period.
Creations Pop Culture Museum – Delray Beach, Florida
A variety of incredible exhibits await you at Creations Pop Culture Museum, which features tons of Hollywood movie and TV memorabilia.
Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park – Gainesville, Florida
A National Natural Landmark, Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park boasts a 120-foot-deep sinkhole that is accessible from a stairway leading to a lush, “miniature rain forest.” The premises include a visitors center and hiking trails.
Dinosaur World – Plant City, Florida
A unique outdoor museum, Dinosaur World is billed as the “world’s largest dinosaur attraction.” Highlights include life-size dinosaur replicas, caves, hands-on activities, fossil dig area, educational exhibits, gift shop and more.
Dry Tortugas National Park – Key West, Florida
About 70 miles West of Key West lies Dry Tortugas National Park, which is home to historic Fort Jefferson. Dry Tortugas National Park is accessible only by boat, ferry or seaplane.
Flipper’s Grave – Grassy Key, Florida
Grassy Key in the Florida Keys is home to the Dolphin Research Center, which also serves as the final resting place for the original “Flipper” (real name: Mitzi), the most famous dolphin in film and TV history. Mitzi is buried in the Center’s courtyard.
Gatorland – Orlando, Florida
Billed as the “Alligator Capital of the World,” Gatorland features such lively shows as the world-famous Gator Jumparoo, Jungle Crocs of the World, Gator Wrestlin’ Show and Up Close Animal Encounters, as well as the Gator Gully Splash Park, petting zoo, aviary, train ride and more.
Holy Land Experience – Orlando, Florida
A “living, biblical history museum,” Holy Land Experience allows visitors to meet interesting biblical characters in authentic costumes, view a fascinating collection of antiquities and expore the ancient architecture of biblical Jerusalem.
Jackie Gleason’s Mausoleum – Miami, Florida
An immense outdoor mauseoleum at the Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Cemetery in Miami serves as the final resting place for Jackie Gleason, who will always be remembered for his role as Ralph Kramden in “The Honeymooners.” The only inscription on the mausoleum is Gleason’s signature parting lines: “And Away We Go.”
Jesus Film Project – Orlando, Florida
The two-hour docudrama, Jesus, has been viewed by approximately 5 billion people around the world since making its debut in 1979. Learn all about the “most widely viewed film in history” at the Jesus Film Project’s master studio, which is located at the World Headquarters of Campus Crusade for Christ.
Jules’ Undersea Lodge – Key Largo, Florida
The only underwater hotel in the United States, Jules’ Undersea Lodge lies approximately 30 feet beneath the sea and guests have to scuba dive to reach the two-bedroom habitat.
Jungle Adventures – Christmas, Florida
A 20-acre wildlife sanctuary, Jungle Adventures is home to alligators, bears, deer, bobcats, panthers, crocodiles, monkeys, snakes and turtles. View alligator feedings and wildlife shows, take a jungle cruise and visit a Native American Village.
Key West Cemetery – Key West, Florida
Opened in 1847, the historic Key West Cemetery is home to a monument for sailors who died during the sinking of the U.S.S. Maine in 1898, as well as a number of quirky inscriptions such as “I Told You I Was Sick” and “Devoted Fan of Julio Iglesias.”
Monkey Jungle – Miami, Florida
Visit Monkey Jungle – “Where Humans are Caged and Monkeys Run Wild!” One of the few protected habitats for endangered primates in the country, Monkey Jungle is home to more than 400 primates that run free on a 30-acre reserve. A total of 30 primate species are represented here such as spider monkeys, colobus, gibbons and guenons.
Monument to the States – Kissimmee, Florida
Begun in 1942, the 50-foot-tall Monument to the States lies in downtown Kissimmee and consists of more than 1,500 fossils and rocks from every state, as well as more than 20 countries.
Mulberry Phosphate Museum – Mulberry, Florida
Mulberry is known as the “Phosphate Capital of the World” and the Mulberry Phosphate Museum features an incredible colleciton of fossils and exhibits that document the town’s role in the phosphate industry.
National Key Deer Refuge – Big Pine Key, Florida
A 8,542-acre National Wildlife Refuge that lies on Big Pine Key and No Name Key in the Florida Keys, the National Key Deer Refuge serves as the home of the endangered Key Deer, as well as nearly two dozen other threatened and endangered plant and animal species.
Navy SEAL Museum – Fort Pierce, Florida
The Navy SEAL Museum is the world’s only museum dedicated exclusively to “the elite warriors of Naval Special Warfare.”
Old Jail – St. Augustine, Florida
The entire family will enjoy a guided tour through this 1891 jail, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse – St. Augustine, Florida
Built in the early 1700s and located near the famous St. Augustine City Gates, the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse contains a variety of unique artifacts and displays.
Perky’s Bat Tower – Sugarloaf Key, Florida
Built in 1929 by Florida Keys entrepreneur, Richter Perky, as a way to attract mosquito-eating bats, Perky’s Bat Tower never attracted any bats but today it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Potter’s Wax Museum – St. Augustine, Florida
Billed as “America’s first and finest wax museum,” Potter’s wax museum is nestled in historic St. Augustine and features more than 160 wax figures of such celebrities and historical figures as Albert Einstein, Julius Caesar, Tiger Woods, Princess Diana, Michael Jordan, Johnny Depp and even a bald Britney Spears!
Reptile World Serpentarium – St. Cloud, Florida
The Reptile World Serpentarium houses more than 50 species of snakes from all over the world such as the Australian taipan, king cobra and East African green mamba. Venom shows take place twice daily.
Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! – Orlando, Florida
View such oddities as a Rolls Royce made from a million matchsticks, two-headed calf, shrunken head, four-eyed man, cannibal dinosaur, Mona Lisa made out of toast, Egyptian mummy, Van Gogh portrait made from 3,000 postcards and a piece of the Berlin Wall at the Orlando Odditorium, which appears like it is being slowly devoured by an immense sinkhole!
Ron Jon Surf Shop – Cocoa Beach, Florida
Open 24 hours a day, Ron Jon Surf Shop is a massive 52,000-square-foot, multilevel specialty store that features surfboards, clothing and surf-related souvenirs, as well as live music, demonstrations and autograph sessions.
Salvador Dali Museum – St. Petersburg, Florida
Nestled in downtown St. Petersburg (of all places!), the Salvador Dali Museum boasts the most comprehensive collection of permanent works by the famous surrealist painter such as “The Hallucinogenic Toreador” and “The Discovery of America by Christopher Columbus.”
Seven Mile Bridge – Marathon Key, Florida
A masterpiece of engineering, the Seven Mile Bridge was constructed between 1979 and 1982 on the Overseas Highway and serves to connect the Middle Keys (Marathon Key) to the Lower Keys (Little Duck Key). For the record, the actual length of the Seven Mile Bridge is 6.79 miles.
Solomon’s Castle – Ona, Florida
Internationally known sculptor, Howard Solomon, created this unique medieval-style fortress to house his extensive artwork. Guided tours of Solomon’s Castle are available. The premises also include the Boat in the Moat Restaurant.
Southernmost Point – Key West, Florida
A huge buoy-like structure at the corner of Whitehead and South streets in Key West supposedly marks the “Southernmost Point in the United States,” which is only 90 miles North of Cuba.
Spook Hill – Lake Wales, Florida
Park your car at the bottom of this “gravity-defying hill” in Lake Wales and it will appear to roll up the hill. Is it an optical illusion or some kind of mystical occurrence?
St. Augustine Alligator Farm – St. Augustine, Florida
View Maximo the Giant Crocodile (15 feet and 3 inches long, 1,250 pounds) at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm, which also features wildlife shows, nature habitats, albino alligators and much more.
Titanic: The Experience – Orlando, Florida
The world’s first permanent Titanic exhibition features a full-scale re-creation of the Titanic’s Grand Staircase and incredible stories of the passengers and crew who survived the tragedy, as well as more than 250 Titanic artifacts and memorabilia from the 1997 Oscar-winning movie, Titanic.
Venetian Pool – Coral Gables, Florida
Surrounded by Venetian-style architecture and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Venetian Pool is a 820,000-gallon pool that was carved out of a coral rock quarry in 1923. It features a variety of waterfalls, caves, grottos and a diving platform.
Water Ski Hall of Fame & Museum – Polk City, Florida
View the first pair of water skis and other rare artifacts and memorabilia that document the history of waterskiing at the Water Ski Hall of Fame & Museum, which also contains a resource center and audiovisual library.
Weeki Wachee Springs – Weeki Wachee, Florida
Established in 1947, Weeki Wachee Springs still features its ever-popular live mermaid shows, as well as a state-of-the-art waterpark called Buccaneer Bay and sightseeing boat tours.
WonderWorks – Orlando, Florida
Experience an earthquake, lie on a bed of nails, design your own roller coaster and immerse yourself in virtual reality fun at WonderWorks – “Orlando’s only upside-down attraction!”
World Chess Hall of Fame – Miami, Florida
Learn about some of the most famous chess players in history such as Bobby Fischer and Boris Spassky at the World Chess Hall of Fame, which also features fascinating chess exhibits and artifacts.
World Erotic Art Museum – Miami Beach, Florida
The World Erotic Art Museum boasts an extensive collection of more than 4,000 artifacts that comprehensively document the history of eroticism from 200 B.C. until today.
World’s Largest Drive-In – Sunrise, Florida
Open since 1963, the Fort Lauderdale Swap Shop boasts the largest drive-in movie theater and daily flea market in the world.
World’s Largest McDonald’s – Orlando, Florida
In addition to offering a unique menu that includes gourmet sandwiches and desserts, this two-story McDonald’s offers a 25,000-square-foot play area, as well as more than 60 arcade games. It is located just off world-famous International Drive.
World’s Smallest Police Station – Carrabelle
Basically a phone booth, the World’s Smallest Police Station was built in the early ’60s to accommodate the one police office in Carrabelle, population 1,800. It’s worth the photo opportunity if you ever find yourself driving aimlessly through Florida’s panhandle.
Orlando, Florida Guide, the best guide to Orlando, offers discount Disney World tickets, discount Universal Orlando tickets and discount Sea World Orlando tickets, as well as discount Orlando hotels and individually tailored Orlando vacation packages.
Top 10 British Tourist Attractions
It’s no surprise that most of the top 10 visitor attractions in Britain are in our capital city, London. However, with Blackpool Pleasure Beach and Alton Towers bucking the trend, there’s much to be seen outside of London. Between the top 10 attractions in Britain, they welcome over 33 million domestic and overseas visitors each and every year. We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 free and paid visitor attractions, based on the number of visitors each year (2008 figures): Blackpool Pleasure Beach 6,000,000+ vistors annually Entrance Charge With an astonishing 6m+ visitors each year, the Blackpool Pleasure beach deserves its number one spot on our list of top 10 visitor attractions in Britain. Home to over 125 rides and attractions including the Big Dipper, Grand National and the Avalance white-knuckle roller coaster, it’s Britains top tourist attraction yet again. Having celebrated its centenary in 1996, Blackpool Pleasure Beach continues to amaze thrill seekers and families. Open February-November. British Museum 5,932,897 vistors annually Free Entry The British Museum contains a huge collection of art and artefacts from across the world. Founded in 1753, it was the first national public museum in the world, and has always granted free public admission since its doors opened. The museum celebrated its 250th anniversary in 2003, which saw the restoration of the Kings Library and new permanent exhibitions. The museum is open every day, charges may apply for special exhibitions. Tate Modern 4,862,581 vistors annually Free Entry One of four Tate art galleries, the Tate Modern stands on the south bank of the River Thames in London, and houses some of the UK’s collection of international modern art from 1900 to the present day. Situated in a disused power station, the gallery contains important works of art from Picasso, Matisse, Dali, Warhol and Magritte amongst other famous artists. Open every day apart from 24-26 December, the Tate Modern continues to attract visitors in their millions each year. The National Gallery 4,382,614 vistors annually Free Entry Housing the national collection of Western European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries, the National Gallery contains over 2,300 works of art from many famous painters, including Van Gogh, Turner, and Van Eyck. First opening in 1838, the National Gallery is committed to free entry to visitors so that its priceless collection of art can be enjoyed by everyone. Audio trails and tours are available. Natural History Museum 3,698,500 vistors annually Free Entry One of three large museums in the South Kensington area of London, the Natural History Museum contains some of the world’s most important specimens in the areas of Zoology, Botany, Entomology, Mineralogy, and Palaenotology. Famous for its permanent exhibitions of dinosaur skeletons, the Natural History Museum opened its doors and allowed visitors entry free of charge since 2001. London Eye 3,500,000 vistors annually Entrance Fee Having attracted over 30 million visitors since it opened in 2000, the London Eye is one of the most iconic landmarks in London’s skyline. Astonishingly, it receives more visitors annually than the Pyramids of Giza (3m) and the Taj Mahal in India (2.4m). The 135m observation wheel now stands alongside some of the world’s most famous attractions, and is an icon in its own right. A new feature for 2009 is the 4D Experience (included within ticket price), which is a pre-flight 4D show of the flight. Located in Jubilee Gardens on the South Bank of the River Thames, the London Eye is now the most paid tourist attraction in London. Alton Towers 3,100,000 vistors annually Entrance Charge Alton Towers is a world-class theme park and resort based in Staffordshire. With over 3 million visitors in 2008, it’s the second most visited theme park in Britain, after Blackpool Pleasure Beach. Alton Towers is home to some of the fastest rollercoasters in the world, including Nemesis, Oblivion, Air, and Rita, Queen of Speed. With many new and proposed attractions on the cards for Alton Towers, the theme park continues to draw visitors from across the length and breadth of Britain for a totally thrilling day out. Science Museum 2,705,677 vistors annually Free Entry Founded in 1857, the Science Museum in London is renowned the world over for historic collections of scientific artefacts, from aircraft to microchips. Originally opened to house items of interest from The Great Exhibition in 1851 in Hyde Park, the collections form an enduring record of scientific, technological and medical change since the 18th century. With over 300,000 objects on display, the collections represent social, cultural and scientific aspects of science. Tower of London 2,161,095 vistors annually Entrance Fee Built in the 1080′s by William the Conqueror, The Tower of London’s role has been a fortress, royal palace and prison through its long and bloody history. Situated next to the River Thames and Tower Bridge in London, the Tower of London is famous for its stories of torture, executions and prisoners, which include Sir Walter Raleigh, Guy Fawkes, Anne Boleyne and Queen Elizabeth I. Victoria and Albert Museum 2,065,300 vistors annually Free Entry Often abbreviated to the V&A, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London is famous for housing the largest collection of decorative arts and design, with over 4.5 million objects of art, spanning 5000 years. Objects include ceramics, glass, furniture, jewellery, photographs, silver and ironwork. Devoted to temporary exhibitions of art, there are usually more than 10 different exhibitions held each year.
It’s no surprise that most of the top 10 visitor attractions in Britain are in our capital city, London. However, with Blackpool Pleasure Beach and Alton Towers bucking the trend, there’s much to be seen outside of London.
Between the top 10 attractions in Britain, they welcome over 33 million domestic and overseas visitors each and every year.
We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 free and paid visitor attractions, based on the number of visitors each year (2008 figures):
Blackpool Pleasure Beach
6,000,000+ vistors annually
Entrance Charge
With an astonishing 6m+ visitors each year, the Blackpool Pleasure beach deserves its number one spot on our list of top 10 visitor attractions in Britain.
Home to over 125 rides and attractions including the Big Dipper, Grand National and the Avalance white-knuckle roller coaster, it’s Britains top tourist attraction yet again. Having celebrated its centenary in 1996, Blackpool Pleasure Beach continues to amaze thrill seekers and families. Open February-November.
British Museum
5,932,897 vistors annually
Free Entry
The British Museum contains a huge collection of art and artefacts from across the world. Founded in 1753, it was the first national public museum in the world, and has always granted free public admission since its doors opened. The museum celebrated its 250th anniversary in 2003, which saw the restoration of the Kings Library and new permanent exhibitions. The museum is open every day, charges may apply for special exhibitions.
Tate Modern
4,862,581 vistors annually
Free Entry
One of four Tate art galleries, the Tate Modern stands on the south bank of the River Thames in London, and houses some of the UK’s collection of international modern art from 1900 to the present day. Situated in a disused power station, the gallery contains important works of art from Picasso, Matisse, Dali, Warhol and Magritte amongst other famous artists. Open every day apart from 24-26 December, the Tate Modern continues to attract visitors in their millions each year.
The National Gallery
4,382,614 vistors annually
Free Entry
Housing the national collection of Western European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries, the National Gallery contains over 2,300 works of art from many famous painters, including Van Gogh, Turner, and Van Eyck.
First opening in 1838, the National Gallery is committed to free entry to visitors so that its priceless collection of art can be enjoyed by everyone. Audio trails and tours are available.
Natural History Museum
3,698,500 vistors annually
Free Entry
One of three large museums in the South Kensington area of London, the Natural History Museum contains some of the world’s most important specimens in the areas of Zoology, Botany, Entomology, Mineralogy, and Palaenotology. Famous for its permanent exhibitions of dinosaur skeletons, the Natural History Museum opened its doors and allowed visitors entry free of charge since 2001.
London Eye
3,500,000 vistors annually
Entrance Fee
Having attracted over 30 million visitors since it opened in 2000, the London Eye is one of the most iconic landmarks in London’s skyline. Astonishingly, it receives more visitors annually than the Pyramids of Giza (3m) and the Taj Mahal in India (2.4m).
The 135m observation wheel now stands alongside some of the world’s most famous attractions, and is an icon in its own right.
A new feature for 2009 is the 4D Experience (included within ticket price), which is a pre-flight 4D show of the flight. Located in Jubilee Gardens on the South Bank of the River Thames, the London Eye is now the most paid tourist attraction in London.
Alton Towers
3,100,000 vistors annually
Entrance Charge
Alton Towers is a world-class theme park and resort based in Staffordshire. With over 3 million visitors in 2008, it’s the second most visited theme park in Britain, after Blackpool Pleasure Beach. Alton Towers is home to some of the fastest rollercoasters in the world, including Nemesis, Oblivion, Air, and Rita, Queen of Speed. With many new and proposed attractions on the cards for Alton Towers, the theme park continues to draw visitors from across the length and breadth of Britain for a totally thrilling day out.
Science Museum
2,705,677 vistors annually
Free Entry
Founded in 1857, the Science Museum in London is renowned the world over for historic collections of scientific artefacts, from aircraft to microchips.
Originally opened to house items of interest from The Great Exhibition in 1851 in Hyde Park, the collections form an enduring record of scientific, technological and medical change since the 18th century. With over 300,000 objects on display, the collections represent social, cultural and scientific aspects of science.
Tower of London
2,161,095 vistors annually
Entrance Fee
Built in the 1080′s by William the Conqueror, The Tower of London’s role has been a fortress, royal palace and prison through its long and bloody history. Situated next to the River Thames and Tower Bridge in London, the Tower of London is famous for its stories of torture, executions and prisoners, which include Sir Walter Raleigh, Guy Fawkes, Anne Boleyne and Queen Elizabeth I.
Victoria and Albert Museum
2,065,300 vistors annually
Free Entry
Often abbreviated to the V&A, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London is famous for housing the largest collection of decorative arts and design, with over 4.5 million objects of art, spanning 5000 years.
Objects include ceramics, glass, furniture, jewellery, photographs, silver and ironwork. Devoted to temporary exhibitions of art, there are usually more than 10 different exhibitions held each year.
Written by Chris Haycock, Founder of BritEvents.com, the definitive guide to what’s on – events in Britain.
Odessa, Ukraine. Traveler’s Attractions
Would tourist attractions, Odessa lifestyle model and entertainment in Odessa really matter for a single backpacker? Since the very moment you take a look at Odessa Map, it would give you a single and definite answer. Odessa is the city known for its humor, the most beautiful women in Ukraine, rich story of the whole nation. Yes, right, not just the city, but a separate nation. As long as Moscow and Riga is supposed to be the separate states with separate governing system, Odessa is one of the kind to be included as the #3 in this hero-cities chain.
So, the first question from a âtouristoâ is: Where to stay?
The answer is⦠Try Odessa accommodations (hotels, apartments, hostels)
A few 4* hotels to name are: âPalladiumâ (Italians blvd., Kanatna str.), âOdessaâ, former âKempinskiâ hotel (Sea Port, near Potyomkin stairs) and popular among tourists âArcadia Plazaâ (one of the youngest hotels), that is close to the sea coast, night clubs and just beautiful and lively Fountain area in Odessa.
Rating: good quality, each room accommodate up to 3 guests, price â European standard.
Odessa apartments (privately owned, compact and convenient, furnished, equipped). By now Odessa apartments has got the most accommodations rating from tourists due to inexpensive prices, yet high standards and privacy.
Rating: high quality, high rating, accommodate up to 5 guests, prices vary dependable upon the accommodation level. Apartments have chambermaid service (weekly or, upon request), laundry and extra linen.
Odessa, the multinational city
Odessa counts over 1 million inhabitants. In general, the city is multinational and counts Bulgarians, Moldovans, Russians, Ukrainians (the natives).
Odessa changes, Odessa grows and modernizes, Odessa blossoms and recreates as a ânew generationâ resort. Large monumental history (as many monuments not a single one of the European cities would possess), yet it would sound quite amazing when you see quite a few casinos around, 4*- 5* restaurants that would compete in quality and price volume in the entire world. So, who said Odessa is a Soviet place?
Odessa â a good place to gamble and eat? Now, further moreâ¦
Odessa restaurants (to name only a few) are Steak house (meat and wine) – #18 Deribaska str; Buffalo â99 (European) â #7 Richelievska ( corner Deribaska); Estrelita (Italian) â #1 Yekaterinska str.; Sushi time (Japanese) â Lustdorfska road (Tavria); Hong Kong (Chinese) â Gavanna str. corner Deribaska; Mexico (Mexican) â Glushko str; Katran (Seafood) – #13 Mayachniy per; Koumanets â Lanzheronovskaya str. (corner Gavanna). Average level of receiving guests â homely manner, good food quality, friendly staff, credit cards accepted.
A few words to say about Odessa sights and night life not to forget what most of the backpackers come for: Shevchenko Park (cultural area); Sea coast; Potyomkin Staircase (mostly referred as the battle spot), Primorskiy Boulvd, Deribaska str; 411 Memorial Battery (dedicated to WW2, The Great War of 1941-1945); Dolphin park â Lanzheron beach; Arcadia beach & Night clubs; Preobrazhenskiy Monastery; Literature, Archaeological, Western & Eastern Arts Museums; Opera House, Russian Drama Theatre, Ukrainian Drama Theatre, Philarmony. And all of the places still remain the same as they were in Soviet age which every mature Odessan recalls with a warm smile on their face.
Letâs talk about night clubs. Yo; Fidel; Palladium; Hali Gali. Average age attended: 18-45, face control enabled. Establishments are mostly friendly and hospitable. A good place to dance, POP and electron music lovers.
Bowl/billiards places: Odin; Mexico; Profy â 24/7 service. Playing tables reservation, bars, saunas, exotic massage starting from Russian ending up Thai and Chinese techniques.
And, at last, beaches. We know a few now and letâs sum up our nice tour with the most sceneric areas of the coastal area. Arcadia; Delphin; Gold Coast; Karolino Bugaz â resort area, entertainment base, hotels, summer night clubs, pools. Shrewd Odessans will make you feel comfortable as long as you have the budget set up.
Destination guides also recommend the following sights Sofievka, Uman park; Ascania Nova, wild animal reserves; Vilkovo, Odessa Venice (excursion includes boat walks, meat and champagne lunch and some rest times to spend with the locals).
Bottom line for Odessa attractions. Odessa in Ukraine has been always noticed about in various, still fun and amazing in Memoirs by Isaak Babel, Vorontsov (whose stone monument remains standing high above the Odessa buildings), whoâs put a lot effort into architecture and building of the hero city of Odessa.
