Subscribe: RSSEmailTwitterFacebookFriendFeed

Pet Friendly Places to Stay in Ayr, Scotland

February 26, 2010 by Andrew Kelly  
Filed under Hotels

Isn’t it great when you go on a vacation to somewhere you have never visited before? Do you find yourself getting excited thinking about arriving in a new place to enjoy some free time? Did you know that pets too can enjoy (and benefit from) a break away from home? Increasing numbers of folk are choosing to take their pet with them on vacation and if you visit a place such as the city of Ayr in Scotland you begin to appreciate the many advantages (for you an your pet) such a place has over other cities in the UK. Unfortunately it isn’t very easy finding pet friendly accommodation so I have listed a few Ayr hotels, that allow pets, below.

Situated on the beautiful south west coast of Scotland, the pretty town of Ayr attracts a great deal of visitors year after year. The majority of folk arrive in search of places to visit relating to the world renowned, and Scottish National Poet, Robert Burns. There are a multitude of places in Ayr in which the bard spent some time or to which there are strong associations with him and most are well worth a visit. The best way in which to gain an understanding of the man, his life and his poetry is to visit the surrounding area where you will find many more places relating to him and a host of statues and other monuments dedicated to him.

The general area around Ayr is called the county of Ayshire for which the town serves as the main center (administrative). Overall the county consists of lovely lush and green rural and agricultural land and unspoiled coast and beaches. The lack of pollution is immediately apparent with fresh country smells and crystal clear water, just perfect for you and your pet. Animals love both the countryside and the seaside and as you both explore you may start to suffer from a little deja vu. The fact is that this fantastic part of Scotland is incredibly popular with movie makers and countless number of local places have appeared in numerous works including the mystical cult British masterpiece called “The Wicker Man”. The Wickerman Festival is held just down the road at the end of July each year, it is a family friendly music and arts festival which is growing in size and popularity and I can not recommend it enough.

The Wickerman Festival is held in the neighboring county of Dumfries and Galloway but for this article I am concentrating on Ayr and Ayrshire however, before I list the pet friendly accommodation I would like to request that you really take care to ensure that your chosen hotel or guest house does not regret allowing pets in their rooms. Some places make a charge for pets while other may only charge if there is damage or the room requires extra cleaning but if everyone’s pet behaves pet lovers will keep their excellent reputation.

Three Hotels Which Allow Pets

The Swallow Station Hotel

With seventy three rooms this is a large pet friendly hotel located in the very center of Ayr. Next to the train station the 3 star accommodation has it’s own bar and restaurant and is overlooking Burns Statue Square, about ten minutes from the airport. No extra charges for pets.

Horizon Hotel

Another centrally located pet friendly hotel the Horizon offers 3 star accommodation in a considerably smaller establishment (25 rooms). No extra charges incurred for pets. Excellent views over towards the Isle of Arran.

Savoy Park Hotel

Another 3 star pet friendly hotel is the Savoy Park, minutes from the town center. A small (fifteen rooms) family run establishment which does not charge extra for pets and offers free broadband internet in every room.

Guest Houses In Ayr Which Allow Pets

Canter Holm Guest House

The six roomed Victorian residence of Canter Holm Guest House is another 3 star pet friendly Ayr establishment which is centrally located. Sadly this is the only place on our list that says “Charges may be applicable) when referring to having a pet in your room.

Grange View

With only three rooms the 3 star Grange View Guest House is located roughly two to three minutes walk from the very center of Ayr. Pets are allowed and there are no extra charges and you will find the owners extremely helpful in making any requirements such as arranging reservations for restaurants and the likes.

Far, far too few guest houses and hotels in Ayr allow pets. This is such a great shame as fewer places rival the town as a suitable destination for a vacation with a pet. Obviously with so few pet friendly places it is important to make your booking at the first opportunity and, if you manage to book a room, please have a thoroughly enjoyable vacation.

If you are looking for pet friendly Ayr hotels or you want to pick up a last minute bargain you will find the above mentioned hotels discounted at http://hotels.simplytop.com/.


Exploring The Jungle Of The Tropical North Queensland

February 24, 2010 by Jerry Duncan  
Filed under Hotels

One of the most beautiful places on Earth is Australia’s Tropical North Queensland region, which offers sprawling rain forests, national parks, and coral reefs, all providing breath taking views. This sprawling region along Australia’s northern coast offers much to do, and many amazing sites to see, so if you are planning on visiting Tropical North Queensland you should plan on spending several days.

And there are many interesting things to see in this region, sites that are unique to this region. There are several National Parks which you can take a tour of or go for a self guided walk through. The incredible thing about the National Parks is that they allow for you to safely travel through and explore all the natural beauty. You will see creatures and have experiences like none you have had before.

In addition to the beautiful forests in the region, Tropical North Queensland is also home to an amazing coastal area. When you are in Tropical North Queensland you must visit the stunning Coral Reef. Whether you want to walk along the coast, swim in the pristine waters, or explore the sea life that is native to the reef, the coastal area of Tropical North Queensland is truly an amazing place to visit.

Tropical North Queensland offers much more then their rain forests, parks and gorgeous coastal region though. Tropical North Queensland is home to some excellent hotels, restaurants and spas, all of which will help to make your Tropical North Queensland experience even more enjoyable.

One of the most beautiful places on Earth is Australia’s Tropical North Queensland region, which offers sprawling rain forests, national parks, and coral reefs, all providing breath taking views. The most dominant feature of Tropical North Queensland are the gorgeous rain forests that the region is so famous for. In addition to the beautiful forests in the region, Tropical North Queensland is also home to an amazing coastal area. Add in the excellent hotels, restaurants and spas, and Tropical North Queensland is the perfect vacation destination.

When you are searching for port douglas hotels go to tropicalnorthqueensland.com. It is a great tourist information centre right at your fingertips. In addition to port douglas accomodation you can also view local events to do and more.


Visiting Canada Makes Wonderful Vacation Memories

February 21, 2010 by Thomas Clarke  
Filed under Flights

When those in the United States consider traveling abroad on vacation they often forget to realize that Canada is in contention for the trip. Since Canada is a neighboring country to the United States it has much to offer. Most of the Canadian population lives within a few hundred miles from the border line, Canada has a large country for traveler to explore.

Canada has everything from big, metropolitan cities, to small country towns and everything in between. About the only thing that you can’t find are tropical sandy beaches and good surfing spots. Probably the most famous site in the whole country is the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. For anyone who has never seen the Falls, it is quite a site. It has become a popular destination for Honeymoons in the past and has gotten a bad rap for being too touristy. Although it has been thought of that way in the past, it is really a sight to behold. It is a natural wonder that everyone should see.

Aside from the Falls, Canada is full of wonderful natural beauty. If you love ruggedness and the outdoors, then Canada is the perfect place to visit. There is a lot of cattle and grazing lands, and areas in the west that are mountainous and have a close feel to the old west of the United States. There are many cattle ranches and cowboy hats for all visitors to enjoy.

To go with the scenery, there are also many wonderful activities for you to partake in. There is mountain climbing, kicking and biking. If you are looking for water fun, there is white rafting and fishing. For hunters there is rich unspoiled wilderness that makes for a great day. If you are less of an outdoors persona there is still much for you to do and see in the southern country cities. These large cities have all that the larger cities in the United States have to offer, but with a different feel and atmosphere.

From Toronto to Vancouver, there are plenty of great destinations. Visit Quebec and you will feel like you are visiting France on a European vacation. They offer professional sports teams and plenty of entertainment. For people that are thinking about going on a vacation and visiting countries around the world, there is no better place to start than with the country just north of you. You will need a passport, but you can take your own car and travel at your own leisure seeing the sites of this beautiful country.

Cheap flights are easy to get now at Expedia.com. International flights can get to be expensive, but with the right company, like Expedia, you can get amazing deals.


Blue Mountain Chalets: A Whole New World Of Family Fun.

February 20, 2010 by Adriana Noton  
Filed under Hotels

A holiday in the Blue Mountain area near Ontario in Canada will open up a whole new world of family fun. It doesn’t matter which time of the year you go, there will always be lots to do and to see. For the family man Blue Mountain chalets offer the best alternative by far.

For a family or 4 or more, chalet accommodation makes perfect sense cost wise if compared to a stay in a hotel. Should you stay in a hotel, you will have to rent at least two rooms, which will sharply increase the cost of your holiday. To pay for two rooms in a hotel for a week or more will make a serious dent in the family budget and simply mean that there is a lot less money available to do all the things that you planned to do.

Something else to remember is that if you stay in a hotel there will be no facilities to prepare meals for the family. You will therefore have to eat all meals either in one of the hotel’s restaurants or somewhere in town. This fact alone will sharply increase the total cost of your holiday and once again mean that there is less money to spend on other things.

Another aspect of a chalet holiday is simply the increased space it provides to every member of the family. The majority of chalets are quite roomy. There will in all likelihood be a lounge area where the family can watch television, play games or just relax. Most chalets also have a large kitchen counter with bar stools where all of you can gather to have your meals or just sit and chat.

Temperatures in the Blue Mountain area can plummet during winter. For this reason many chalets in the area have fireplaces around which all family members can get really comfortable on a long winter evening. There is simply no way that an electric heater in a hotel room can ever be compared to the ambiance provided by a crackling log fire. These cozy evenings will become some of your fondest family members in future years.

Chalets often even have such facilities as a pool table to keep everyone busy during a long, cold evening when it’s pouring outside. A few of the upmarket ones even come with a private swimming pool and a hot tub. If there isn’t a private pool, you will most likely have access to a communal swimming pool, which is excellent for hot summer’s days.

Staying in a chalet of course does not mean that you will be cut off from life in the surrounding area. You can still go out when you feel like it and dine at one of the many restaurants in the Blue Mountain area. There are such a variety of eating places that you will find it hard to make a choice. From lively pizza places to cozy little places ideal for a candle lit dinner for mom and dad.

In so many respects a holiday in one of the Blue Mountain chalets is the perfect family vacation. There’s so much to do and to see in the surrounding area that family members will never get bored. There is entertainment for people of all ages and every family member will go back home regenerated and ready for what life has to offer.

Planning to ski or snowboard but don’t have a place to stay? Save money by staying in Blue Mountain chalets instead of hotels. Enjoy the comfort of a home while being close to the mountain in these Blue Mountain accommodations. With breathtaking views and in an area with many unique experiences, you’re bound to enjoy yourself.


Virginia Innkeepers Offer a Montpelier Getaway

February 20, 2010 by Josh Prizer  
Filed under Hotels

If you love spending your vacation time exploring our nation’s past, then a trip to Orange, Virginia, is a must. The area is teeming with historic sites, including the homes of three U.S. presidents. The staff at Montpelier (the home President James Madison) has joined with several local inns to offer packages that include tours of the home and accommodations.

Among the participating inns is the charming Holladay House Bed and Breakfast. Located in the historic downtown district of Orange, Virginia, the inn dates back to 1830 and has been beautifully restored to reflect its 19th-century heritage.

There are several romantic guest rooms and suites, many with amenities such as a fireplace, double whirlpool tub or a private patio. Luxurious linens, fluffy towels and soft robes are among the other amenities that will leave you feeling pampered and content. The innkeepers prepare a delectable full breakfast each morning, a perfect start to a day exploring Montpelier, which is just five minutes away.

After choosing your inn, choose a schedule of events at Montpelier. There are several different packages for you to enjoy. The Montpelier Wine Weekend includes three days of fun and two nights at the inn. You’ll enjoy wine tastings at six local wineries, as well as a full tour of Montpelier. This package also includes dinners at fine, local restaurants.

For history buffs, try the History Weekend or History Weekday packages. These three-day, two-night packages include your lodging and breakfast at the inn, dinners at local restaurants and a tour of Montpelier. If you have more time available, the 7-day Dig in Style Package includes lodging and breakfast at your inn; a special first-night dinner and a farewell dinner with the director of archaeology; more dinners at local restaurants; a tour of Montpelier; and five days of working at Montpelier’s archaeological dig.

If you are celebrating a special occasion or just want to make your bed and breakfast experience extra special, consider one of these add-ons. The Holladay House innkeepers can arrange to have fresh flowers in your room, a homemade lava cake for two or even a private, in-room massage. There are plenty of other choices available, as well.

Jane Leisteiner loves to write about travel and history. For more information about Montpelier Orange VA inn packages or more details about bed and breakfast inns, visit the Holladay House or iLoveInns sites today.


Taking A Trip Into A Natural Beauty Wonderland In The Tropical North Queensland Region

February 11, 2010 by Jerry Duncan  
Filed under Hotels

If you have yet to visit the Tropical North Queensland region of Australia, you may want to consider planning a trip to visit. Tropical North Queensland is one of the most beautiful and naturally preserved region in all the world. Most of the areas in this region are listed as World Heritage, and this is due in part to the natural rainforest that remains.

A walk through the Daintree Rainforest will offer you insight into the incredible natural wonder of the rainforest. The flora and fauna will amaze you, but perhaps even more amazing is the way in which the rainforest has been naturally preserved. A trip through the rainforest will allow you insight into the different species of creatures that call this amazing land home. You can almost feel the history of this amazing wilderness area.

In addition to the rainforest there are many other wonderful areas to visit. One of the more popular areas, especially among tourists, is the Great Barrier Reef. The Reef has some of the most beautiful colors of nature all created by the coral that lines it. There is a blue stream of water that runs into the orange coral and many other breathtaking sights. It is a great place to explore and truly enjoy what nature can do.

Other fun things to do while visiting the Great Barrier Reef is scuba diving and cliff climbing. When you scuba dive you are given an up close look at the aquatic creatures of the reef and it is an experience that will always be remembered. If you cliff climb then you will be rewarded with one of the most spectacular view of the region. No matter what you do at the Great Barrier Reef, you are sure to make many wonderful memories.

Enjoy all that this unique region has to offer. The Tropical North is an incredible place to take in amazing sights and sounds of nature

When you are visiting Australia there are many hotels and accommodations for you to choose from. If you are looking for information on a palm cove accommodation or port douglas hotels log onto www.tropicalnorthqueensland.com.


Where Can I Find A Business Center In Hotel Lobbies?

February 10, 2010 by Adriana Noton  
Filed under Hotels

Business travel used to be simple and fun. Traveling by air has changed some of that. Having to carry a laptop, printer and all the paraphernalia that goes with this equipment has also become a real pain. Not to mention that if flying, many airlines are charging for extra baggage. The advent of having a business center hotels lobbies, has really become a huge benefit.

There are many occasions when the need for a fax machine or copy machine is needed. It used to be all right to bring a portable printer when you were traveling, but now there is no need as many of these centers are better equipped than your office.

Over the past five or so years, almost every hotel has added a business center in the lobby. You will usually find several computers, a fax machine, a copy machine and obviously, Internet access. Fortunately, the cost of using these facilities is still inexpensive, but they are as functional as being in your office, or your home office.

When this idea was introduced business centers were not very functional. The computers were slow. The software was outdated and that was about it. Today, these are well designed and have pretty much everything you need to work efficiently. You will now find lightning fast computers with up to date software, fax machines and copiers. There are several software companies that are donating their newest technology to the hotel computers. You may be using products that are not even available at retail.

One of the biggest changes in the past few years, is how much more is available in the center. Early on, there were a couple of outdated computers that were slow and poorly equipped. Today, the computers are lightning fast. You will find printers, copiers and fax machines as well. They have evolved into small offices for the business travelers.

Some of the more upscale hotels will have the newest technology available. It allows you to try some software or printer that you may not have access to anywhere else. There have been many travelers whom have requested where they can buy some of the stuff that is loaded on the computers, that in some cases, has not hit the market yet. Some software companies donate these products to get a feel of how people will respond to them, before they are sold at retail. In fact, you may be asked to review some new products before you leave the hotel. The usual reward is a prepaid card to use on your next trip.

When you enter, make a small deposit into an ATM and you will receive a debit card for the value of your deposit. You then insert this into a module next to your computer and you are in business. As your time winds down a little clock will notify you of how much time you have left. It may be there to keep you from wasting time, so do what you need to do and finish up.

Overall, the business center in hotel lobbies is a great addition. When you are making reservations, be sure to ask if there is one on premise and if not, stay somewhere else. The better hotels are basically telling you that they appreciate you staying there and they wish to make your stay as comfortable and functional as possible.

Looking for Mississauga hotels? We provide business trip hotels with conveniently situated locations are throughout the Toronto Area. Visit us to find more Toronto hotels, Markham hotels, Toronto airport hotels and more.


Planning A Vacation At Waterfront Cottages

February 5, 2010 by Adriana Noton  
Filed under Hotels

Planning a holiday or vacation to the Waterfront Cottages will be a wonderful opportunity to fully enjoy and become immersed in the beauty of the countryside. Escaping the smog and hustle of the city to a cottage overlooking a lake is a great way to relax and become re-energized.

The fractional cottages are completed furnished and fully stocked. Stopping at the local market on the way to the cottage will provide you a wonderful opportunity to start your vacation with a home cooked meal made from the local fresh produce. The kitchens are stocked with all of the items you will need to practice or expand your culinary skills.

The views from each window of the cottage is breathtaking and delightful. From the mountainsides, the lake, and the village, you will find something interesting to spend time contemplating. There are spots in town where a person can spend hours listening to stories about the history of the village and surrounding area. A person can find out all of the little out of the way spots to explore and see the interesting sites.

Spending a vacation is a place so magnificent allows a person to spend days wandering around the lake, hiking through the countryside, and sitting on the top of a hill to watch the world go by. There is no need to hurry, nothing pressing to tend to. Participating in activities in the village and nearby towns may be something that you want to do, but you don’t have to. A person never feels like a stranger when they are staying in these wonderful cottages.

Almost every cottage is home to a bicycle or two that will give you a chance to bicycle along the narrow lanes and roads that surround the cottage and town. You can bike around the lake or along trails that will allow you to completely enjoy the wildlife and natural splendor of the area.

Eating in the village is a delight as you sit in the local cafe and enjoy the fresh foods that are made from the local seasonal produce. Fruits, fish, and a host of wonderful traditional foods whet the appetite and are a splendid way to spend one’s afternoon. When there one wishes to participate in activities and group activities, there are clubs, dancing, and international cuisine in the larger town that is a short drive from the cottage.

Wandering through the reserves you will enjoy the solitude and the natural wonders of the area. Some of the gardens have been carefully planted and cared for for hundreds of years. There are paths and caverns that invite you to enjoy some time exploring and enjoying what the region has to offer. At night, you can enjoy the clear crisp air as you drink a cup of tea and watch the stars shoot across the sky.

A marvelous place to relax and enjoy a vacation, the Waterfront Cottages allow families an opportunity to connect and enjoy each other with activities that are focused on bonding and spending quality time together. An individual will find that spending time in the cottages provides a safe and warm cocoon to relax and refresh. And a person who wants to escape for just a while to a place that provides a stunning place to unwind and re-center will find that each visit to the cottages is a welcome retreat.

Fractional cottage ownership is a worthy investment. Muskoka cottages have proven to be very popular during the summer days. If you choose to not rent it out, you can enjoy the weekend with your family at the waterfront fractional cottages as well.


Planning You Family Vacation

January 28, 2010 by Thomas Clarke  
Filed under Flights

Summer is only a few months away and families have begun to start discussing where they would like to go on that long awaited summer vacation. This also means that many are going to be searching for an affordable car rental, and this can be simpler then you think if you follow the the tips outlined below.

1. If possible sign up as a frequent traveler with the company of your choice. When you sign up the company will ask for an email address, which they will then send discounts and promotions to. This, however, does not mean that you can only use them with that company. Many companies are know to honor competitor discounts and promotions.

2. Search the internet for any coupons and discounts. There are many discounts offered through various coupon sites and informational web pages. Then even have special sites that deal with nothing but promotional codes for various companies.

3. Check with some of the discount travel websites like Expedia, Orbitz, and Travelocity although this is a good place to search for the best rates, it is also wise to follow up with the actual companies themselves to make sure that they are really offering you the best possible deals.

4. If you are flexible on your travel dates, you will be able to get better deals. Most rental companies actually will charge you less money, the longer you are renting. The best deals are usually offered for weekend and week long rentals.

5. When you reserve your car, never reserve he car you actually desire. If you are looking to rent a luxury car, instead reserve the mid size. When you go to the rental company to get pick up your reserved car, ask about an upgrade. Most times they will upgrade for a small amount of money, as the car will only be sitting in the lot and they would be making no money on it otherwise. This is the best way to get a luxury car at a mid sized price.

Cheap airfares are important now because money is tight and people are traveling for the season. Getting a cheap flight through Expedia is simple.


Enjoy the Unique Luxury of Jaco Vacation Rentals

January 25, 2010 by Andrew Smith  
Filed under Hotels

If you want the beauty and escape of a tropical paradise without the crowds of the large tourist hotels Jaco vacation rentals may be exactly what you’re looking for. You can rent your own beachfront condominium and enjoy the freedom of having your own residence on one of the most amazing beaches in the world.

Jaco vacation rentals are available along the Costa Rican Central Coast. These comfortable retreats offer the hospitality of a hotel with the comfort of a private condominium. Rentals are located in the beach resort towns of La Paloma Blanca, Bahia Azul, and Bahia Encantada. Costa Rica is famous for its beaches and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy day tours of the area with knowledgeable guides who will make sure you know about all of the best places to visit along the beaches or in nearby towns. There are also adventure tours for guests who enjoy the thrill of water sports.

Of course, Costa Rica also has several options for dining and dancing. Spend the day on the beach and the night on the town at one of the many bars or restaurants. If you prefer to shop, you will find everything from simple souvenir stores to high-end boutiques. Explore the history of the area, or spend the day people watching at the beach.

Everyone will find something appealing on the Central Costa Rican Coast. Your vacation will be even more enjoyable when you can enjoy the privacy of your own Jaco vacation rental. You can relax in your temporary beach home without the distractions of housekeepers or other hotel guests.

Rentals are a unique way to enjoy the natural wonders of a beach vacation. Renting a condominium on the beach gives you a real sense of owning your own slice of paradise, even if it is only for a week or two.

if you want more information about Jaco Vacation Rentals, feel free to visit their website by clicking on the following link: http://www.daystarrentals.com/


Next Page »