The Best Golf Courses in South Africa

By: Robert Santry

Whether you're a seasoned golfing enthusiast who always keeps their clubs on them, or are the type who plays the odd game now and then to relax, luxury holidays in South Africa are impressively well catered for. South Africa's varied terrain makes it a unique destination for golfers, with a mix of breathtaking coastal courses, a fine elevated selection and a good number included in international events. Then of course there's the weather - the climate is absolutely ideal, with the bright sunshine perfect for those who like to spend their times on the fairways and outside the clubhouse.

Here are some of the best golf courses in South Africa. If you only play a couple of times while out there, make sure one of these is on your list:

Leopard Creek

Leopard Creek is pretty much the undisputed jewel in South Africa's golfing crown, and is a frequent inclusion in 'World's Best Courses' lists. If you only play a handful of courses on your golf holiday in South Africa, make sure this is one of them. As well as being an entertaining and challenging course in its own right, what is really unique about Leopard Creek is its location: right on the border of the world-renowned Kruger National Park. The course (a Gary Player design) is sculpted to make the most of its location, and you shouldn't be surprised to see a number of moving hazards around the water features, as warthogs, giraffes and crocodiles have been known to wander the course, and the trees are full of exotic birds too. With this kind of scenery, it's an unforgettable round of golf, but don't let it spoil your concentration for the final hole: a dramatic island green that has been known to make and break scorecards!

Gary Player Country Club

Unsurprisingly, this South Africa golf course was also designed by the legendary Gary Player, and it's very much a challenge fitting for the man himself. This is one of the longest and toughest courses in the country, and not one for South Africa holiday makers who barely play. If you have the skills though, this course is another which frequently sneaks into 'worlds best' lists, albeit at a lower entry point than Leopard Creek. You need to have an accurate approach and watch out for the copious bunkers and water hazards to get a decent score here.

Wild Coast Country Club

Don't be lulled into a false sense of security by the incredible Indian Ocean views - this is actually quite a tricky course, especially if you find yourself straying into the rough, or the coastal winds whip up! It's quite a varied course, featuring several unexpected changes in elevation, which offset the relatively wide fairways. Look out for the thirteenth hole, which is a particularly taxing one, craftily designed to be up there with some of the best in the world. If you're heading for a golf holiday in South Africa, this is a must.

Fancourt Hotel, Country Club and Golf Estate

Yet another Gary Player design that's world renowned for a great round of golf, the Fancourt Hotels' golf course is located on the charming southern Cape. The views are stunning, as is the golf - though it took a lot of effort to make. Over 700,000 metres of earth were moved to make this links style course on a surface that was originally flat! It was well worth the effort though, and if Links style play is your preference then this is certainly worth a visit. The hotel itself is very nice as well, and a good choice if you want to combine a few rounds of golf with your luxury holiday in South Africa.

Arabella Country Club

Not even 10 years old yet, the Arabella Golf Club has come a very long way in a short time, and is now one of the most celebrated golf courses in South Africa. Designed by the celebrated South African golf architect Peter Matkovich, the course is a wonderfully memorable mix of rolling fairways, cheeky bunkers and well placed water traps. It's quite a sight too, as the course borders South Africa's largest natural lagoon!

There are plenty of golf courses in South Africa, and although most struggle to match up to the high standards laid out by these ones, the perfect conditions mean you're pretty much guaranteed an enjoyable round wherever you go. So if you're planning on a luxury holiday in South Africa, don't rule out some quality time on the fairways!

London - This Summer's Ideal Family Holiday Destination

By:Isla Campbell, SITE

London is certainly famous for its cultural offerings - whether it's art, history, or the city's own unique, modern culture. So it's no wonder that countless holidaymakers flock to the city each year, in hope of scratching the surface of the city's array of splendours. Yet, contrary to what many might believe, London isn't always the "grown up's" realm as it's often made out to be. While the city is famous for its nightlife and cultural activities perhaps more suited to adults, there are countless offerings dedicated to a youngster's enjoyment. What's more, family-friendly attractions are popping up more than ever all over the city, prompting families with children of all ages to choose London as their family holiday destination.

So, what types of family-friendly attractions will the city have on offer this summer? To begin, why not let your kids get up close and personal with some friendly creatures at London Zoo? The zoo's recently unveiled exhibition, called Animal Adventure, was actually created with the help of children's ideas - which means kids are in for a real treat with this interactive attraction. Or why not give your kids a magical experience by visiting the Butterfly Jungle at London's Natural History Museum? Aside from enabling your kids to interact with hundreds of beautiful butterflies, the jungle re-creates the most diverse place on Earth, which is home to more than half of plant and animal species.

However, if your kids are more inclined towards the Jurassic era, you won't want to miss Walking With Dinosaurs - on at the O2 arena this August. In addition to teaching kids how dinosaurs lived and explored 200 million years ago, the dinosaur "puppets" on display at the exhibit look, behave - and even feel - real!

Another great attraction for kids and adults alike is the Robot Zoo - on at the Horniman Museum and Gardens until early November. This exhibition, which is visiting London for the first time, features eight larger than life robot animals and 11 interactive displays, enabling visitors to explore animal life and anatomy. Families can enjoy a similar experience - except relating more to humans - at the famous Body Worlds exhibit, on at the O2.

Do your kids love history and ancient culture - or maybe just mummies and knights? Take them to visit the Ancient Egyptian Gallery, followed by the Medieval Gallery - both at the British Museum. And after, why not indulge in a bit of outdoor fun at the Blackheath Bike and Kite Festival. With dramatic "kite fighting" and "kite ballet", as well as gravity-defying bike tricks performed by professionals from all over the world, the Bike and Kite Festival is sure to result in smiles for the whole family.

With so many family-oriented activities going on in London, it makes sense to head over with the entire family this summer. What's more, with a range of great travel deals currently on the market, now is the perfect time to book flights and accommodation in London. Get ready to touchdown from your flights to London and experience what's bound to be a family getaway of a lifetime.

Unique Los Angeles Attractions and Activities - Going Off the Beaten Path in LA

By:Danielle Mead, SITE

If you're planning a trip to Los Angeles, figuring out what to see and do can be a challenge. There are so many great attractions and activities in Los Angeles, the possibilities can be overwhelming for visitors.

Many first time visitors will spend their time seeing the more popular tourist attractions and sights. But if you've already seen most of the typical landmarks or just want to get off the beaten path, there are lots of unique, less commercial and potentially more memorable things that visitors should check out while in Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Farmer's Market

Though this historical, permanent farmer's market is a frequent stop for tour buses, the original Los Angeles Farmer's Market is often overlooked by most tourists. Located in the Miracle Mile area at the intersection of 3rd St and Fairfax, the Farmer's Market is packed with fruit and vegetable grocers, butchers, nut and candy stands, gift shops and a large number "quick eat" restaurants. To avoid the crowds, head to the Farmer's Market during the week for an early lunch and then check out the various shops for souvenirs. Visitors can also walk next door to the Grove shopping mall, which features major retailers like The Gap, Nordstrom and Barnes and Noble, plus a multiplex showing the latest movies.

Olvera Street

This little strip of shops and restaurants in downtown Los Angeles is one of the best ways to get a taste of L.A.'s Mexican heritage. With truly authentic food, mariachi music and historical buildings, you'll be transported to another time and place while never leaving the heart of the city.

Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Library

If your interest in movies is more academic or historical in nature, spend a few hours in this library which houses a vast array of books, original memorabilia and film-related documents. Though none of the library's contents can be taken off the premises, visitors can check out materials to review on-site. Browse through newspaper clippings on your favorite actor or director, read award-winning screenplays, view classic movie posters and more.

The Rock Store

Motorcycle enthusiasts will love this biker pit-stop nestled in the rolling hills of the Santa Monica mountains just above Malibu. Chow down on a tri-tip sandwich or homemade chili and then saddle up to some of the local riders and their amazing bikes for some shop talk. You might even run into Jay Leno or other celebrities who are known to frequent the Rock Store when taking their collectible rides for a Sunday drive.

These are just a few of the more unique activities and sights that visitors to Los Angeles will enjoy beyond the typical tourist attractions. Don't be afraid to travel off the beaten path, as you'll learn much more about what Los Angeles has to offer and come away with truly memorable experiences from your trip.

Holiday in the South of France

By:Dennis Willson, SITE

Southern France has beautiful coastlines and beaches and many ancient architectures that you would simply love to visit. Spending a holiday in the south of France is really a treat for the senses. Not only do you get good food and good wine but you also get great hospitality. Here are some ideas to consider if you want to visit this fantastic French coastline.

Of the famous places to go to, you can obviously start with Cannes, famous for its annual film festival but also much loved for its exquisite beauty as a resort town and also for its beautiful palm-line promenade bordering the sea. It is seen as one of the most glamorous, if not the most glamorous, resorts in all of Europe.

Then there is Antibes- Juan les Pines, which is the third largest town of Cote d'Azur. It faces Nice across the bay and has Grimaldi's 13th to 16th century castle situated at the sea front. It has one of the world's finest Picasso collections.
Menton woos the travelers with its subtler charms and warmer winters. It is one of the most picturesque major resorts of Cote d'Azur and has acres of lemon groves and luscious sub-tropical fruits on offer. It is no wonder then that droves of people flock to this resort just to bask in the sheer luxury and comfort it affords all its visitors.

Using public transportation to get around the South of France is not particularly ideal as you really need to be able to explore at your own pace. Many hidden delights are situated off the beaten track. Car hire is a very popular option in the south of France. Warm weather and beautiful coastal roads make for excellent driving opportunities.

To the south of Avignon lie the Alpilles hills that seem to rise almost suddenly from the middle of a wide and plain area. It has a bevy of little villages and towns, which represent the very nature of the Provence. The famous ones amongst them are St. Remy-de-Provence and Les Beaux-de-Provence. You can also go to the Luberon, a fertile plateau with lots of vineyards. Here you will find a range of limestone hills that look really beautiful in the sunlight.

Of course, you should not miss Avignon, especially during the theater festival in July. It is one of the oldest cities in the Europe and has a lot of offer in terms of style and nightlife.

Marseille is another place that has history written all over it. It is France's oldest town and was founded as early as 600 BC. The main attractions include a beautiful bay, the Vieux port and Isle d'If.

The Ultimate Australia Fly-Drive Holiday

By:Adam Singleton, SITE

If you want to embark on an unforgettable road trip, a fly-drive holiday to Australia can be a fascinating journey and a great choice. As it goes, you drive on the left, the scenery is spectacular and you have the freedom to explore this vast landscape at your own pace. And, don't forget to stop at the beach to ride the waves, explore the vibrant city life and discover the remote outback towns.

If you choose to begin your adventure from Sydney, then drive through Australia's beautiful Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley and New South Wales' Central Coast. Alternatively, head further afield during your fly-drive holiday to Brisbane, Cairns or Melbourne.

Indeed, Australia's sunshine state of Queensland offers must-see icons such as the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient rainforest of Cape Tribulation. Furthermore, drive through National Parks, and visit the world's largest sand island, sun-drenched beaches and some lively but laid-back cities.

The Great Ocean Road offers one of Australia's most scenic drives, with spectacular views at every turn. In addition, take time to explore Victoria's breathtaking scenery, great food and wine, and pretty coastal villages - all an easy drive from Melbourne.

The northern tip of the Northern Territory is a fascinating region to explore during a fly-drive holiday, with Aboriginal communities, wetlands, deep gorges and the largest and most ancient collection of rock art in the world.

In central Australia, discover the mesmerising Uluru - Ayer's Rock - and its changing colour throughout the day. If you manage to have use of a car on your travels then use your car to good effect and explore the other geological marvels of the Northern Territory, such as Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) and Kings Canyon.

It is important to understand that Tasmania is compact in comparison to the mainland states, and this, combined with its remarkably diverse landscape, makes it the perfect destination for a fly-drive holiday. So, take an enchanting journey through the Island State's unique wilderness, heritage and scenery.

For those looking for freedom and a go-where-the-wind-takes-me experience, hire a motorhome and explore parts of Australia that are not visited by the hoards. With the added benefit of only having to unpack once, driving on the left, and a great range of depots; a motorhome could make an Australia fly-drive unforgettable.

An Australia fly-drive is an amazing way to explore this fascinating and spell-binding country. As such, you don't want to miss out on what this amazing country fully has to offer, so hire a car or motorhome today and experience in what can only be described as a memorable driving holiday.

Tips For Visiting Australia in Summer Holidays 2009

By:David R Hughes, SITE

When it comes to vacations, Australia is perhaps one of the best places to visit for its scenic beauty and wonderful lifestyle. Many people visit Australia each year to spend their summer vacations, which has made it one of the most popular places for summer holidays. Its high peaks, woodlands, desolate tracks and luxurious hotels have made a significant contribution in its attainment of this high status among holiday hotspots.

Australia's flowers and greenery are perhaps one of its most popular features. Although they are not the main attraction, yet they do tend to be a definite plus point for the country in attracting tourists. In the summer flowers bloom everywhere, making this island very attractive for tourists.

One of the must visit places in Australia is Sydney. It offers visitors an immense variety of services and enjoyable experiences which will drench your senses with joy. Australia has something for everyone, for example; if you are a fun loving surfer then the Pacific Ocean provides an entirely unforgettable experience. The Colonial museum is definitely a good place to start ones trip to Sydney. The hotels and accommodation facilities here are also among the finest and most luxurious in the world.

The beaches are ideal for those who like to just lie in the sun and relax their nerves. The cool ocean breeze makes the atmosphere pleasant and enjoyable. Walking down the beaches with ones soul mate and watching the sun set in the ocean is something no one can forget.

As already mentioned, Australia is fun for everyone. The amusement parks in Australia are its main attraction for children and teenagers. Although they have something for people of all ages, children and teenagers are mostly the ones attracted towards these amusement parks. Water parks also play an active part gaining the attention of many people.

Opera houses are also one of the specialties of Australia. The opera houses on this island are different in their own way from the rest of the world and are a must visit spot for anyone interested in art and music. The Great Barrier Reef is also an attraction for many tourists. You can go for scuba diving, windsurfing, fishing, or just spend some time lying on the beach and enjoy the view and the warmth of the sun. Adventure lovers would love this place. There is also a facility available to get a grand tour of the whole reef from bird's eye view by hiring a helicopter.

Melbourne is also a must visit place for all history loving folks who get a chance to visit Australia. Its Victorian style design, museums, colonnades are a definite attraction for those interested in historic cultures. Royal botanic gardens are also famous for their beautiful scenery and rare species of plants.

The summer in Australia is generally cool and the heat is bearable which probably makes it one of the best options to visit in for summer vacations. In short Australia is fun and recreational for everyone belonging to any age group, having any sort of interests. Australia has a wide variety of offerings which make a trip to Australia unforgettable.

Summer is the Time For Traveling to Tibet

By:Anna Zhou, SITE

The current report by The Tibet Autonomous Region tells in 2009, 720,237 domestic and foreign tourists visited Tibet between January and May, a figure 1.9 times bigger than that in the same period of 2008. Tibet's tourism has entered a period of rapid development. Visitors from home and abroad are heading towards the region where there is the highest and largest plateau on earth, often referred to as, the roof of the world.

According to Tibetan people, summer is the golden season to travel in a year. Recently, it is getting more and more overseas tourists to go to Tibet. They are not only craving for gorgeous sights and trek, but also searching for diverse culture tours. Tibet's culture is visually stunning as its landscape, its Buddhist heritage, and its tradition and history rich. It is better to know the culture of Tibet in the face of the current pace of change.

You can see foreign tourists everywhere in Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple and the Tashihungpo Monastery of Rikaze, etc. An American tourist Cathy, excited talking about her 5-day trip to Tibet, she said:" Tibet is the most mysterious place deep down in my heart as always. The natural environment and culture are unique on the planet. I was looking forward to visiting Tibet, but I was a bit worried about the security state in Tibet before. However, you won't know until you are there. I went search engine and found out visit tibet travel and tours, after further enquiries they made a route out based on my interests. Thanks to them, a decent Tibet tour guide gives me amazing experiences."

The assistant director of the Tibet Tourism Bureau Wei Min quoted: "Tourism of Tibet has once strongly impaired by the March 14th riots in Lhasa, but from the related statistics both the tourist arrivals and revenue between January and May in 2009 are higher than that in the same period of 2008. We are confident that Tibet's tourism market is recovering from slack seasons last year." "As far as I know, China has invested great amounts of money in ecological preservation for sustainable development, by the help of that we'll see tourists pouring this year." The general manager of VisitTibet.com said.

Top Bali Beaches

Phuket Beaches

Phuket is one of the world's most famous international resort islands. It is the largest, the most expensive and the most touristy of all Thailand's islands, with busy sand and an international airport.

Thailand has a wide choice of beaches including picturesque white sandy beaches washed by clear azure waters. Beaches and Islands in Southern Thailand include Phuket island, Krabi, Phi Phi islands, Koh Lant, Koh Lipe, Koh Ngai on the South West Coast, Koh Samui, Koh Tao and Koh Phangan in Southern Thailand in the Gulf of Thailand. Koh Chang and Koh Samet off the South Eastern Seaboard of Thailand in the Gulf of Thailand.

The Egyptian pyramid

By Astry Blog's
One of the places was most mysterious and miraculous in the planet. Was in African Utara, this country had more than 80 pyramids that were spread all along the Nile river. Respectively the height approaching 100 metre, and was made from the giant's stone seriously their respective reached 100 ton. Now the legend about the pyramid still is inviting various new gossips, the myth and the new belief also to spring up. From all the pyramids, that were highest was the Cheops pyramid. All the pyramids were built only with menumpuk one stone on the other stone. Was not found glue, the nail, or glue anything was used in the production of the pyramid. All the stones whether how mutual passes, so as really was difficult to be found by the existence retakan or the gap. The problem concerning the development technique that was used also was not yet answered until this. So if you indeed looked for the mystery, Egyptian pyramids will continue to give the mystery for you. Bermuda

Borobudur Temple

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Borobudur is a ninth-century Mahayana Buddhist monument in Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia. The monument comprises six square platforms topped by three circular platforms, and is decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.[1] A main dome, located at the center of the top platform, is surrounded by 72 Buddha statues seated inside perforated stupa. The monument is both a shrine to the Lord Buddha and a place for Buddhist pilgrimage. The journey for pilgrims begins at the base of the monument and follows a path circumambulating the monument while ascending to the top through the three levels of Buddhist cosmology, namely Kāmadhātu (the world of desire), Rupadhatu (the world of forms) and Arupadhatu (the world of formlessness). During the journey the monument guides the pilgrims through a system of stairways and corridors with 1,460 narrative relief panels on the wall and the balustrades. Evidence suggests Borobudur was abandoned following the fourteenth century decline of Buddhist and Hindu kingdoms in Java, and the Javanese conversion to Islam.[2] Worldwide knowledge of its existence was sparked in 1814 by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, the then British ruler of Java, who was advised of its location by native Indonesians. Borobudur has since been preserved through several restorations. The largest restoration project was undertaken between 1975 and 1982 by the Indonesian government and UNESCO, following which the monument was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.[3] Borobudur is still used for pilgrimage; once a year Buddhists in Indonesia celebrate Vesak at the monument, and Borobudur is Indonesia's single most visited tourist attraction.

Visit Dubai Map, Dubai Hotel Map - Checkout the Global Village

By Nancy Eben

Dubai is one among the most sought-after cities in the world and it is the capital of United Arab Emirates. This is the most populous city in the country. The city is set on the southern coast of Persian Gulf and it holds a reputation of cosmopolitan city.

The city is supposed to be established almost 150 years prior to the establishment of United Arabian State. In this scenario, Dubai is a major tourism destination of Middle East as well as a prominent financial center. Often called as European replica in Mediterranean, this is the most advanced city in entire gulf area.

The city is completely enchanting. If you will go through a Dubai Map carefully, you will find that this city offers almost every sort of delight for people. A Dubai Map will also assist you in finding various attractions around the city whether it is man made or natural.

If you are planning a trip to the city, you must checkout a Dubai atlas to locate hotels in the city. To get all the information about better hotels in the area, you must go through a Dubai Hotel Map. These maps normally incorporate every detail, which are essential for a tourist who is landing for the first time in global village.

Now, you can also get information by using electronic versions of Dubai Map. These are specially launched by Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce marketing. Electronic Dubai maps are introduced to provide all the expertise of a great Dubai expedition to travelers at their doorstep. This online version of the map is available in several languages, including English, Arabic, German, French, Spanish and Japanese. The niche map also lets you gather details about several accommodations in the city, as it incorporates Dubai Hotel Map.

These maps offer a convenient search facility to find out all the major landmarks in the emirate and also provide a directory of almost every hotel, apartment, shopping mall, hospital, diplomatic mission, places of interest, heritage sites etc. Many traveler sites also offer online Dubai hotel maps, which is a complete database of hotels located in the area. An extensive detail provided on these Dubai hotel maps allows tourist to find an accommodation in accordance with their budget.

Dubai is a treat for expeditors, as one can find a tint of almost every culture here. Check-in in Georgia Armani's hotel at the tallest edifice of the world -Burj Dubai or land to modern world's enchantment, two most attractive human creations, 'The Palm' and 'The World'. Famed as new landmarks on earth, apart from Great Wall of China, these two are man-made islands. Nonetheless, Dubai has an impression of real estate marvel but its natural wonders are equally enthralling.

Holiday in Favourite Villa in Ubud Bali

By Dharma Putra

Ubud is a remarkable town in the middle of the island of Bali. Ubud is surrounded by most of the things that bring people to Bali. For more than a century, it has been the island's preeminent centre for fine arts, dance and music. Ubud is arguably the best place to use as a base if you're visiting Bali; if you're looking for culture, comfort, nature and inspiration. While it once was a haven for scruffy backpackers, cosmic seekers, artists and bohemians, Ubud is now a hot spot for literati, glitterati, art collectors and connoisseurs.

A stay in one of Bali villas in Ubud offers the delight of appreciating all that surrounds you in daily life in Bali. The layout of the villa Amala allows two families with children to holiday very comfortably and with enough living areas to afford adequate privacy. Alternatively it is also a suitable get-away for 4-5 couples to "chill out" in the peaceful and harmonizing atmosphere of Sebali.

This luxury villa is situated on the edge of a padi field, overlooking the river Wos. It sits between the villages of Sebali and Keliki , in the area near to Tegallalang, Ubud. It is an hour's ride from Bali's Ngurah Rai airport, and only a 15 minute car ride from the famed centre of art and culture - Ubud. Staying in Ubud is a unique experience. Ubud offers a stay punctuated with the simple pleasures of watching her children practice their dancing or gamelan playing at the temple; craftsman patiently honing their talents; farmers chasing their herd of ducks down the streets.

On the ground level of the valley house there is a second master bedroom with a indoor bath and shower overlooking the valley as well as a outdoor shower in its own private garden. Next to this is the TV room with a projector and screen to watch movies or catch the latest news on satellite TV. A veranda fronts these two rooms and allows guests to walk out to the valley garden or have breakfast with the morning sun rising over the valley. A bale sits at the edge of the garden overlooking the valley and rice terraces.

It is one of two rooms in this villa that has an exposed alang alang roof. The bathroom contains a bathtub shower and also an outdoor shower on the terrace. The valley house has a open living area on the top floor with wide open verandas for dining al fresco. It also boasts a immense alang alang roof. Below this are two guest rooms sharing a veranda that overlook the valley. Both rooms are ensuite with partial outdoor showers and baths.