Most theme parks are all about the rides, while Nelis’ is really all about the overall experience of learning about the Netherlands without actually enduring a long plane ride. Guests have the opportunity to watch and learn authentic Dutch dances during their visit. The Dutch are famous for their wooden shoes, and Nelis’ is no exception when it comes to continuing that tradition. You can take in one of the demonstrations on how the “klompen” or wooden shoes are made throughout the day.

There’s no need to leave the park if you get a bit hungry. The Hungry Dutchman Café is an excellent place for lunch. Although Dutch foods are on the menu, they understand that little ones can sometimes be picky eaters and offer American choices as well. As much as I love food, I love sweets even more! Thankfully the theme park has an ice cream shop on the grounds. You can have some before or after your meal. You can continue exploring the park after lunch but if you feel that a snack is in order, there are cheese tastings that highlight the imported Dutch cheese. If you start to get intrigued by these delicious cheeses, the village has a farmhouse that showcases the process of cheese-making.

If you visit the park between the last week in April and mid-May, you’ll have more of a chance of seeing the theme parks’ beautiful and famous tulips. If you happen to fall in love with these lovely flowers, the staff at Nelis’ Dutch Village can help you order tulip bulbs and have them delivered to your home which would make for a beautiful reminder of your time there.

While this may not be a theme park where you center an entire trip around, it is still a good addition to a well-rounded trip to Michigan. It is about 2 hours away from Detroit and about an hour from Ann Arbor. This gives you plenty of other sights and activities during a trip!

Boracay island has some of the most amazing spots available for snorkeling enthusiasts.

• The Bulabog Beach: One of the best places to indulge in snorkeling at is the Bulabog Beach of Boracay. This is just on the opposite side of the White beach. You can find plenty of colorful reefs (though not as good looking as those at Palawan) and corals here. You can rent snorkeling gear, life vests and other supplies directly from the boatmen there. When you are at the Bulabog Beach, you won’t have to look too hard to find your snorkeling spot because there are plenty of them! One of the best things you can do here is to feed bread to the fishes here; they are not shy really and would grab the bread from your hand even before you realize it!

One great thing about the Bulabog beach is the easy availability of transportation: any boat you hire, it is sure to take you to this beach! The bad thing is that since a lot of tourists come here for snorkeling, you may feel the pressure of the crowd and may not always have the snorkeling spot to yourself; in those times you can get some ice cream and other delicacies from the shops nearby, like I did! Don’t forget to take photos: these beautiful fishes deserve it! The weather around the beach is mostly warm and pleasant. One of the most easily available drinks there is the coconut juice; the juice is so delicious that believe me, you would want a sip even if you don’t feel thirsty, but be prepared to pay more than the market price! Still, I could not help but grab a couple of them every time I got a little tired of snorkeling; the juice has something magical in it: it enlivens your spirits!

• Tambisaan and Ilig-Ilig beaches: Apart from Bulabog beach, these are yet another two beaches where you can indulge in snorkeling. The Tambisaan is a good and attractive beach on its own but is not as suitable as the Bulabog beach as far as snorkeling and diving are concerned. On the Ilig-ilig beach however, the case is just the opposite: you get to see a variety of aquatic life here and you will also find plenty of corals at that beach! There are also eateries along the Ilig-ilig beach and you can order food there before going for snorkeling; this is optional of course, but I am sure you will enjoy the delicacies cooked there! It was funny really when I realized that I was having all the fun and those poor cooks were cooking my ordered food!
• Crocodile island: A fourth good spot for snorkeling is the famous Crocodile island. You won’t find any live corals here however, but the diversity of fishes I found at the island more than satisfied me. Bring your underwater camera as well as some bread and bananas with you. You would find it amazing how these fishes can consume a banana faster than we humans can! These strange aquatic creatures, needless to say, deserve to be clicked!

Praia do Cedro is definitely one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches in Ubatuba. Part of Cedro’s appeal is its pristine rainforest landscape and abundant marine life. The consistent presence of various fascinating underwater creatures makes Praia do Cedro an ideal place to dive or snorkel.

Praia do Centro can be reached by walking from the Praia da Fortaleza. This journey in itself is a hiking adventure as it takes about an hour to walk all the way to Cedro. If the laid back surfer in you wants to get out there and try out the waves, head out to Felix, Itamambuca and Praia Vermelho, which are widely known as surfing beaches. Vermelho Beach is conveniently close the city center.

Ubatuba is also the home of the State Park of the Serra do Mar (Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar). The park is one of the biggest areas protected by the state. At the center of the park, you will find the much quieter beach of Picinguaba. For years, Ubatuba has been welcoming visitors from all over, offering a large collection of restaurants, shops, hotels as well as guest houses locally called pousadas. At the seaside, the local government runs a turtle preservation program called Projeto Tamas. The project site is definitely worth visiting especially if you are an animal lover or simply a fan of turtles. Close to the city center, you will find the ruins of a large old farm called the Ruinas Lagoinha, which has become one of the city’s iconic landmarks.

Just off the shore of Ubatuba lies the historical island of IIha Anchieta. The ideal time to visit the island is during early morning. There are schooners that run back and forth the island. IIha Anchieta is known for the ruins of an early 19th century prison. But the island does not only hold important historical value, its surrounding waters are excellent attractions. Diving experts consider these waters to be the most beautiful diving sites in all of Brazil. Another popular island to visit is Couves Islands, which is home two beaches. Aside from doing the usual beach activities, the island is also great for trekking trips.

Travelling takes you away from your tense daily routine life and lands you at an exciting new place, much different from yours. You spend some time in a totally new environment, meet people from a different cultural background, visit places that you have never seen, eat food that is of a different taste and experience lot of other things. All that excites you and takes away all kind of tensions from your mind. You feel relaxed, start realizing new realities, accept cultural differences in living styles and come closer to other people. This brings international harmony, friendship and cooperation in many fields, useful for the mankind. Travelling also expands your mental horizon and increase your knowledge. You cannot learn from the books what you learn from your own experience.

Apart from pleasure travelling, people travel abroad for various other reasons. Students travel abroad to get admission in the institutions of their choice. Some people travel for business purposes while others travel for health reasons and medical checkups. The young people mostly travel for seeking employment or getting married. People also travel for professional requirements and family reunion, etc.

Some countries are much cheaper than your own country so visiting and spending some time in one of those countries actually saves you money which you can use for travel expenses.

Some countries need your services and, therefore, offer you better wages and other benefits. If you are a multi-lingual and have experience in teaching a language then you can become a language teacher and earn good money. You can also work as a translator or interpreter.

For whatever purpose you are travelling make sure that you possess proper travel documents and endorsement of visas for the countries you want to visit. It is also important to respect the law of the land you are visiting. Never engage yourself in any illegal activity.

Monemvasia’s history goes all the way back to the time of the Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman rulers. The town had become a flourishing port during the reign of these empires. Today, the old city remains, even though only a few people live here year-round. But during its heyday in the 12th century, thousands chose to live in this Greek town to take advantage of its huge shipping and trading industry. But Monemvasia is not forgotten. During your visit, you will be among the many who will come here to uncover its dramatic past.

The old section of Monemvasia is often called Kastro (castle), while the New Monemvasia is known as Yefira. A causeway links the sections to each other. A number of bars, taverns and accommodation facilities in Monemvasia are situated in the newer town, while the Kastro section has kept its traditional appearance.

The Kastro is further divided into two; the lower and upper town. It is in the lower town where you can find the ruins of 800 traditional houses that were originally built here. There are also four original churches that are still standing today. Previously, there were around 40 churches that occupied the town! Don’t miss the opportunity to explore and experience these important pieces of architecture. The oldest of these churches is named St. Paul’s, built during 956. Aside from being a place of worship, this church also maintains a museum. The other churches to explore are the 16th century Our Lady of Hrisafittisa, St. Sophia and Church of the Elkomenos Christ, located in the city central square.

St. Sophia Church (Aghia Sophia) is a well-known 11th century Byzantine monument, situated in the upper town, nestling dramatically on cliffs. One reason why St. Sophia is unique is its octagonal shape, which was a direct result of the architectural influence from Constantinople. It also dazzles visitors with its exquisite marble reliefs and sculptured door. From the upper town, you will find a zigzag road that leads you to the Fortress of Goulas. This impressive castle sits on a hill and gives an outstanding panorama of the entire town.

After seeing the ruins and churches, take your time to drink in the exceptional views of the Aegean Sea. If the day is clear and you get lucky, you may even see Crete from afar. If you like hiking, then go ahead and conquer the lush trail to the highest peak in the upper town measuring approximately 656 feet above sea level. To cool off, make your way to the rocky beaches with clear water and take a short dip or a long relaxing swim, your call!

Be Prepared

If you’re travelling with children, the number one priority during the duration of the visit will, naturally, be everyone’s safety. One of the most common concerns of parents when they travel with younger members of the family is that they may wander off and get lost. It’s important to have a well-thought out plan in case something like this happens. Prepare a series of steps you will all follow in case a family member wanders off and familiarise everybody with some of the city landmarks as you ride in on the Salzburg airport transfers. While the city is, indeed, considered very safe and easy to get around, it’s imperative when travelling abroad to educate children on their location. Point out landmarks in the vicinity of your hotel, as well, and their proximity to attractions you may visit, such as the Old Town, Hellbrunn Palace, the Museum of Modern Art and the Hohensalzburg Fortress.

Help Them Reflect on the Destination

Once the safety measures are all set in place, switch gears and remember that you are visiting the city for the children as much as yourself. Younger children may not yet fully grasp the cultural and historical significance of the Hellbrunn Palace or the famous Cathedral, but you could help them process their reaction to the beautiful (but unfamiliar) architecture of these buildings by providing them a journal to write down their findings. Being able to chronicle the experience will help them pay attention more to each attraction you visit. Even on the journey in on the Salzburg airport transfers, point out the attractions that you’re planning to take them back to visit so they can get excited about the prospect.

Encourage Children to Connect

Teaching your children simple phrases such as “thank you” and “you’re welcome” in German can not only be fun, but also help them feel connected to the locals. It can be overwhelming for young children to visit an unfamiliar country, so teaching them a few words of the language will help ease their unfamiliarity. At attractions like Residenzplatz, the famous square in Altstadt, the city’s historic centre, they can try out their new skills in the cafes or shops. Encourage them to chat to the Salzburg airport transfers driver on the way in to test out their language skills, then compare them on the way back to the airport to see how they’ve progressed.

History of Bavaria

Salzburg was actually part of Bavaria until it got its independence in the 14th century and became an independent principality within the then German Empire. With the changing tides of history, it became a part of Austria in the 19th century, but the cultural ties with Bavaria remain very strong to this day. Today, many people commute between the two countries for work and share many features such as literature, accent and cuisine.

Bavaria part of Germany

Bavaria was also an independent state and only became part of the German Empire in 1871. It was a rural area until after the Second World War, when parts became highly industrialised, and it is now a vibrant economic centre. There are still many beautiful and wild places to visit, like the Bavarian Alps, where you’ll find oasis where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful scenery and wildlife.

Alpine Splendour

Berchtesgaden, in Bavaria, is easy to get to using Salzburg airport transportation. In fact, it is just over 30 minutes’ drive. This area was made into a protected national park in 1978 and is one of the oldest protected areas in the Alps. Here you can experience the wonderful flora and fauna, either on guided tours or independently. There are beautiful alpine meadows, and forests adorning the mountainside where you could see, if you are lucky, Golden Eagles. You may also see the Alpine Salamander and Blue Hares to spot when you are hiking in this spectacular region.

Spectacular boat trips

One of the highlights of this trip has got to be Lake Königssee, renowned as Germany’s most beautiful alpine lake. The lake is about five miles long and is surrounded by sheer mountain walls. As there is no path around the lake, if you want to see this incredible place a boat journey is a must. This is one of Germany’s deepest and cleanest lakes and there are boat trips where you can glide over its crystal-clear water and marvel at the stupendous scenery that surrounds this lovely spot. There are two stops: Salet and Sankt Bartholomä.

Baroque Church

As you slowly cross the lake there appears a wonderful mirage: Sankt Bartholomä, a Baroque church with fantastic red rounded turrets and white walls surrounded by mountains, lakes and trees. It is truly a magical place. It was first built in the 12th century and remodelled in the Baroque style in 1697. As the boat stops here you can get out and explore the small town; there is also a restaurant, where you can sit and have lunch overlooking the lake.

Municipal Libraries

You’ll find a number of libraries in the various municipalities around Paris. Hostels may even be just a short walk from a library – known locally as bibliothèques – and there are some that cater mostly to students. These libraries are also a great resource, with students often able to borrow books that may not easily found on the Internet – especially those in French. If you’re staying for an extended period, you may be able to apply for a public library card to be granted borrowing privileges for a wide array of libraries – from the Bibliothèque Historique de la Ville de Paris to the Arsenal Library. The interlibrary lending program even means you may even be able to find that obscure book you’ve never been able to get your hands on. Free Wi-Fi is always a welcome resource for students as well.

Parc de Bercy

Located beside the Seine, this is a wonderful place to escape when you want to study in a quiet place away from the hustle and bustle of Paris. Hostels are never far from a city green space, but Parc de Bercy offers a particularly tranquil ambience. The park itself is a work of natural beauty shaped by the hands of man, and it’s not hard to find a quiet spot to get some reviewing done in peace.

La Caféothèque de Paris

Café chains like Starbucks are a popular choice for those looking to sip a coffee in a relaxed atmosphere. Some cafés, however, offer a warmer, cosier and (most importantly) quieter atmosphere for students to study in peace. La Caféothèque de Paris is one such locale. Not only does it offer an ambience of comfort and cosiness rolled into one neat package, but it also brews up some excellent specialty coffee as well. It’s situated at 52 Rue de l’Hôtel-de-Ville, which is an easy walk from many of the Paris hostels.

A l’Heure du Thé

If you’re more of a tea person, A l’Heure du Thé – which roughly translates to “a time for tea” – is for you. A l’Heure du Thé can serve up whatever tea you want, whether you’re hankering for a traditional pot of Earl Grey or more exotic fare like Chinese lapsang souchoung black tea. The cosy and composed atmosphere makes it a perfect choice for students looking for a quiet study nook. It’s located at 23 Rue Lacépède.

Antwerp has a flourishing shipping and trading industry due to having the largest port in all of Europe. This economic powerhouse is also home to the Antwerp Fashion Academy, which has been continuing to develop new talents in the designing world since the 1980’s. Antwerp has also been dubbed the “world’s leading diamond city” as this is where over 70% of all diamonds are traded. So if you have some serious diamond shopping to do, this is the right spot! Browse around the selection of shops at the diamond district near the Railway Station and get acquainted with this precious stone. At night, Antwerp has no intention of making you retire early. With its wide selection of groovy restaurants and bars, the city is a lively companion until the wee hours.

The well-known baroque painter Pieter Paul Ruben was born and raised in Antwerp, and today, the city honors him by turning his former residence (Rubenshuis) into one of Antwerpís most important and popularly visited museums that showcases his life’s work. Another impressive museum you should visit is the MAS or Museum aan de Stroom. Aside from telling a great story about Antwerp’s history, the museum’s 60-meter high tower is an excellent example of Avant-garde architecture. After browsing the museum collection, proceed to the top of the tower to get your memorable 360∞ panorama of the city.

Despite having a penchant for the new and contemporary, Antwerp has managed to preserve its medieval center. Here, you will find delight just walking around the cobbled streets, sipping coffee at quaint cafes and admiring the 16th to 17th century buildings and monuments that abound. The market square in particular, is populated by medieval guild homes that are commonly seen in old Flemish towns. Other must-see landmarks include the Gothic-Renaissance style city hall, the exquisite fortress beside the river and the magnificent Gothic Cathedral of Our Lady. Standing at more than 400 feet, this is one of the biggest Cathedrals in Northern Europe. Inside, you can find some of best paintings of the artist Ruben.

If you want to explore the center at a fashionable and relaxed pace, go for a horse and carriage tour. Another sightseeing alternative is the city’s own version of a hop on/hop off double-decker tour bus aptly called the Antwerp Diamond. This bus tour brings you to seven of the best known spots and is a great introduction to the city.

One of the prime attractions in the city is the Antwerp Zoo. Founded in 1843, this zoo is the oldest in the country and one of the oldest in the world. Located at the heart of the city, the zoo houses about 5000 animals who call the zoo home. After admiring these creatures, you will also want to explore its lovely garden area.