Archive for » December, 2011 «

Gap Years on a Budget
Wednesday, December 21st, 2011 /

Taking a gap year is very common practice for people who are leaving their school days behind them and about to embark on another few years of university. A gap year allows you to venture into the great unknown and experience more of the world and gain some independence before going back into education and staying put. Of course people in this situation very rarely have any money and so they need to find ways to make money and finance their gap year of travelling and experience. By definition gap years are always on a budget, but there are many ways in which you can achieve financial freedom and have a brilliant gap year for a very cheap price.

The infamous Khao Sahn Road where all backpackers in Bangkok end up...

Plan Ahead – The first thing you need to do when planning your gap year is to sit down and work out how much the entire trip is going to cost. Start with the more expensive purchases first such as flights and accommodation, then try and work out how much you will need to have each day and how much money you will want for fun and shopping. If you have a set target amount that you need to reach then you can start working and saving for this target total well in advance.

Start Saving – Once you have a plan of how much money you will be needing then you can start to save up and work out how you are going to get the money together. As long as you plan well in advance then you should be able to put money aside every month from work or pocket money which can be put towards your gap year. You can also try and do some money raising activities and get people to sponsor you for achieving goals. There are many ways in which you can start saving up money for your trip and the sooner the better.

Earn As You Go – Depending on what kind of gap year you opt to go on, there are many potential opportunities for you to earn while you are away. Some people like to spend the first few months of their year off working full time and saving up enough money to simply travel, while others like to get off immediately and work their way around different locations. Travelling to some countries you will find that there are seasonal and art time jobs that you can do to earn room and board, even earn some extra money on your way.

Keep Your Accounts in Order – While you are away it is vitally important to make sure that you keep tabs on your spending and manage your budget as you go. Be careful with your cash flow and always make sure that you have enough money set aside for emergencies and phone calls. Try to budget for the future and keep in mind any expenses that you will need money for later on.

As long as you budget effectively and keep and eye on your finances you will find that there are great experiences and opportunities for you to encounter on a gap year. This type of journey is a real chance to explore the world and expand your horizons.

About the Author: Naomi Chamberlain writes for Discounts.ca. Current travel related discounts include a range of Expedia Coupons.

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Daintree: Australia’s Greatest Tropic Treasure
Wednesday, December 21st, 2011 /

Millions of years ago, much of the Australian landscape, including the Red Centre, was covered in tropical rainforest. Today, the greatest stand of tropical rainforest still standing in Australia covers a two-tenths of a percent of land called the Daintree Rainforest. A visit to the Daintree is a visit back in time and a visit to one of the most amazing places you will ever see.

Daintree Rainforest

While the Daintree’s 12,000 hectares may not make it the largest National Park in Australia, within its borders are an enormous variety of the country’s indigenous plants and animals. 30% of Australia’s marsupial, frog and reptile species call the Daintree home, as do up to 65% of Australian bat and butterfly species. These are just a couple of examples that prove that the Daintree is an irreplaceable and not-to-be-missed Australian destination.

Thankfully, the Australian government realised the importance of the Daintree and took steps to ensure that this unique rainforest would not suffer the same fate as so many of the world’s tropical rainforests have and be exploited for its natural resources. Now a 12,000 hectare National Forest, it is strictly controlled to minimise our modern impact on its fragile ecosystem.

Daintree Rainforest

Arguably, the plant life in the Daintree is even more remarkable than its animal life. Botanists take a keen interest in the flora of the Daintree because of its ancient origins. Of the world’s nineteen primitive species of plants, twelve occur in the Daintree National Forest. One of these, the "Idiot Fruit," is said to be one of Australia’s and the world’s most important botanical discoveries, being one of the oldest fruits ever found.

Fortunately, a degree in botany is not necessary for you to get the most out of your exploration of the Daintree. You can learn all about it on one of the many guided tours on offer there. Even if guided tours are not your usual preference, you will find that these are the best way to get the most out of your visit.

One can’t miss tour is the Cooper Creek tour. Cooper Creek is located in the lowland heart of the Daintree and includes an enormous variety of flora and fauna. Both day and night excursions are available and both are highly recommended.

Daintree Rainforest

Another great way to see Daintree is to take a river excursion. Travelling aboard a comfortable, stable and safe vessel, your guide will point out features of the surrounding landscape you would probably overlook or not be aware of if you stumbled across them yourself. You will also be safe from the crocodiles you encounter along the way, too!

A short introduction to the Daintree simply doesn’t do it justice. You have to see it to believe it and give yourself plenty of time to take it all in. It’s not the sort of place you can get the most out of in a weekend. Book a Daintree accommodation and immerse yourself in 250 million years of living history.

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Free Things to Do in Cape Town
Friday, December 16th, 2011 /

Set within one of the world’s most naturally beautiful locations, and boasting cosmopolitan culture and attractive architecture, Cape Town is a fantastic city to explore. It is the most visited destination in Africa, and with its stunning mountains, abundant beaches, rustic vineyards, and lively art scene it is easy to see why.

Cape Town

Do you dream of exploring the beautiful South African city of Cape Town, but have only a small travel budget to work with? Don’t worry, because there are more than enough adventures to be had in the “Mother City” which will not cost you a single rand.

Here are some of the experiences that you can enjoy for free in Cape Town:

  • Relax on the beach. Cape Town has many beautiful beaches where you can spend the day lounging in the sunshine and dipping your feet in the water. Clifton Beach is the trendiest beach to see and be seen at, and Camps Bay is one of the most scenic. If you are brave enough to let it all hang out, Sandy Bay is the official nudist beach of Cape Town.

Clifton Beach

  • You can see some excellent collections of artworks by old masters at the Michaelis Collection in Greenmarket Square and the Rust en Vreugd, an 18th century mansion. Both of these art galleries are free to enter, although you can give a small donation. You can also window shop at some of the finest commercial art galleries in South Africa, such as the AVA, Everard Read, and Michael Stevenson, which are free to the public.
  • Hike up Table Mountain. This amazing flat-topped mountain is one of the most recognizable icons of Cape Town, and if you want to avoid paying for the cable car you can make it up the mountain on your own steam. Remember to take good hiking boots, a map, and weather-proof clothes because the climate can change dramatically on the mountain.
  • Listen to buskers on the Victoria and Albert Waterfront. This lively pedestrian area is always filled with performers from lone guitarists to full jazz bands who will provide the perfect background music to your leisurely strolls along the waterfront. They are free to listen to, but if you enjoy the tunes it is nice to throw a few coins in their hat to show appreciation.
  • Visit the Groot Constantina, which is the oldest wine-producing estate in South Africa. There are free tours through the ornate Manor House, which is fitted with period furniture, paintings, ceramics, brass, textiles, and so much more, showing what life was like for a wealthy farming family in the late 18th century. You can also see some beautiful wine drinking vessels from antiquity in the old wine cellar.

Manor House

  • The Cape Town Holocaust Centre is free to visit, and tells the harrowing tale of the six million Jews killed during this terrible time in history. The museum aims to teach about the dangers of racial discrimination, and links the injustices of the Holocaust to apartheid. The gallery of local survivors and their testimonies is particularly powerful and moving.
  • Take the trip out to Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town, where you can see African penguins waddling about in their natural habitat and go for a hike among the gigantic boulders that give the beach its name.

With so many free things to do in Cape Town; you can have a great time in this thriving city even on a shoestring budget!

This content was written by Simon Grant of timetowander.com on behalf of Etihad Airways, who are now offering regular scheduled flights to Cape Town.

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Paris – The City of Light and Love Never Fades
Friday, December 16th, 2011 /

All over France, and probably in the whole of Europe, Paris has the most number of destinations concentrated in one place. Aside from housing the world’s most renowned museums, this city has a lively historic center, a wonderful riverscape, historical sites and monuments, as well as one of the most vibrant nightlife in the world. There is a great variety of Paris hotels from which to choose, meaning people from all backgrounds and countries can enjoy its pleasures.

Sightseeing

Paris is also known for its cafes and restaurants, arts and architecture, theatres and cinemas, and its overall romantic ambiance. Its sights are more than enough to make a library of travel books. One of the most famous sights dominating the city is the Eiffel Tower. Seeing the entire city from the top of the tower during night time is more than magical.

Arc de Triomphe

Other attractions include Arc de Triomphe, Grande Arche, Bastille Prison, Palais-Royal, and Elysee Palace. You shouldn’t miss Paris’ museums such as Louvre and Modern Art Museum. The churches are also a must-see – among them is the Cathedrale de Notre-Dame de Paris and the Church of St-Eustache. There are also gardens and quarters which are all equally fascinating.

Shopping

Paris is one of the fashion and shopping capitals of the world where you can find top designer stores. High end shopping centers can be found in avenue Montaigne, Place des Victoires and Rue du Faubourg-St-Honore. Smaller boutiques can be found in St-Germain-des-Pres. For jewellery stores, Vendome and Les Halles have all you need. If you want to buy gifts and souvenirs, Marais has a lot of items in store for you.

avenue Montaigne

If you want great bargains, check out food and flea markets. You can find one at almost any neighborhood. At the north of Paris, you can find the largest flea market in Europe which is the Marche aux Puces se St-Ouen. On the bank of Seine, you will find books, perfumes, chocolates and other goodies that will satisfy your remaining budget for the holidays.

Outdoor Activities

Paris is an active city even during night time. From 10pm to 1 am, people skate around the city. They usually meet below the Montparnasse Tower. The skaters are divided in different areas depending on their proficiency. It is a traditional activity that you shouldn’t pass up.

For water sports, Aquaboulevard Water Sports is the place to be. You can also see the entire city in a different perspective – from a hot air balloon. The take off point is at Fontainebleau. This is an experience that you don’t want to forget when visiting Paris.

Eating Out

When visiting Paris, you will never run out of a place to eat. You can choose from fine dining establishments to corner brasseries. There are also creperies and bistros where you can pick up any type of cheese, bread and pastry. Great restaurants are located in Rue Mouffetard where you can find any cuisine of your choice, all day long.

Rue Mouffetard

Traditional French dishes are served in the Left Bank and Right Bank, at the small streets near Louvre, in the Latin Quarter, and Bastille area. For a fine dining experience, nothing beats the Ritz. If you are on a tight budget, Montparnasse and Butte aux Cailles are a favorite.

Theatre

Cinemas, concerts, and theatres are important parts of Paris’ nightlife. Although prices are costly, there are also student rates available. Among the most well-known places in this field are the Odeon Theatre de l’Europe, Champs-Elysees, Cinematheque Francaise, and Opera Bastille. For nights of music and dancing, Le Divane du Monde, Le Caveau de la Huchette and Re de les Lombards are your best bet.

Events

Paris has a lot of cultural festivities to boast of. It is a host of different yearly events such as Festival du Film de Paris and Foire de Paris from March to April. Le Marathon de Paris also happens in April. This city is also home to one of the best New Year’s Eve celebration which is the Reveillon.

Anne is a writer with a love of travel, she often writes about the worlds destinations.

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Top Five Tourist Attractions for History Lovers in Berlin
Wednesday, December 14th, 2011 /

Berlin is a wonderful city to visit and is rich in culture and history. There is much to see and do here and a history lover will be kept entertained for a long time within this city. As is widely known, the city itself has had a turbulent past and has been ravaged by war. Also, it is only since 1989 that the city itself was unified and the evidence of the struggle and division is still seen today.

One of the most visited and interesting destinations in Berlin is the Berlin Wall. Construction began in 1961 and divided the Communist East and Democratic West. It was demolished in 1989 and the city began to rebuild itself. The wall is an important part of Berlins history and extremely interesting to visit. You can still see traces of the wall or visit the memorials or museums. In order to fully immerse yourself in the history, I would recommend visiting The Berlin Wall Memorial and Documentation Centre. It gives you some insight into the oppressive world that once existed here.

Berlin Wall

The number one rated attraction in Berlin according to Trip Advisor is the Pergamon Museum. This is a world renowned museum which explores ancient history and houses many priceless artefacts. One of the most famous artefacts is the Altar of Zeus which draws a large crowd. The Room of Greek sculptures is also especially amazing. As with most museums, go as early in the day as possible to beat the inevitable crowds, especially if you are travelling to Berlin during peak season.

Pergamon Museum

When visiting Berlin and exploring its history, it is important to delve into all periods of the city’s history even the unpleasant times. World War 2 was a terrible time in Germany under the Third Reich. The Topography of Terror is a great way to examine Berlin during the Second World War. It was once the headquarters of the SS, The Secret State Police and the Reich Security main office. People can now see the extent of the Nazi parties’ power in Berlin and across Europe and examine the atrocious policies which the people in this building put into action. The photographs on display here are extremely interesting and will allow you a glimpse into that sad chapter of Berlin’s history.

The Holocaust Memorial

Finally I would recommend that you visit The Holocaust Memorial following your visit of ‘The Topography of Terror’. It will show the real consequences of the decisions made during the war. It can be a very upsetting day but it’s important to remember those lost and it is also interesting from an historical perspective. The museum is underground and there is free entry but either reading up on the subject thoroughly or renting an audiobook is advised.

Of course there is much more historical gems to visit in Berlin such as Brandenburg Gate, Hohenschoenhausen Prison, the German History Museum and the Neues Museum to name a few. However, the four detailed above are must-sees for those that love history.

This guest blog post was written by Hannah of BerlinCityGuide.net, publishers of the free guide of things to do in Berlin

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Fine Wine and More in The Barossa
Wednesday, December 14th, 2011 /

The Barossa Valley of South Australia is Australia’s premier wine growing area. So intertwined are the Barossa and wine, they are virtually synonymous. Barossa wines are hailed as some of the world’s finest and thousands of visitors flock to the valley each year just to enjoy the wine. When they get there, they are pleasantly surprised to discover that the Barossa Valley has even more to offer then wine.

The Barossa Valley was originally settled by German immigrants in the first half of the 19th century. Originally, the settlers were Lutherans who were being persecuted at the time in their native country. When the news got out that the Barossa Valley was blessed with the perfect climate and soil for vine growing, more Germans migrated to the area and have a strong cultural influence in the Barossa even today.

Those first settlers didn’t have it easy. They slept in tents and their first enterprise was back breaking labor in the limestone quarries. The first permanent buildings in the Barossa Valley were made out of those stones and their early building efforts are a testament to the skill, faith and labor of the early settlers. The spires of the many old Lutheran churches in the valley, set against the green vines in the vineyards, is a lovely sight.

Many of the vines you see in the Barossa Valley have their origins in Europe, since the settlers brought their roots with them from Germany. In fact, some of the oldest Shiraz vineyards in the world are in the Barossa Valley, their European counterparts having been destroyed by disease not long after they were brought to Australia in the mid-nineteenth century. Other varieties that can be found in the region include both reds and whites, including Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Semillon and Grenache. The red varieties grow best in the Barossa Valley itself, while the whites thrive best in the Eden Valley and Menglers Hill areas.

It goes without saying that a region that has such a proud wine growing heritage is goint to celebrate its heritage from time to time. The longest running celebration in the Barossa Valley is the biennial Barossa Vintage Festival. Every other year, this extravaganza is held over the Easter holiday season. Featuring music, grand balls, sumptuous dinners and a world renowned wine auction, it has been going strong for over sixty years.

While it is true that the main attraction of the Barossa Valley is the wine, it is also true that visitors to the region are delighted to find many other attractions in the region as well. With its growing popularity as a tourist destination came a variety of wonderful galleries, shops and, restaurants and cafes. Proud of its heritage, the Barossa Valley also has fascinating museums that chronicle its history. The locations of some of these are as interesting as the museums are. For instance, the Barossa Historical Museum is housed in a charming old post office that was built in 1865, while the Herbig Family Tree is located inside of an old, hollow gum tree.

You won’t want to miss the Herbig Family tree. While you may choose to stay in a more comfortable Barossa Valley accommodation, you will love visiting this unique historical site. The tree itself, a red gum, is estimated to be as old as 500 years. Friedrich Herbig moved into the inside of the tree in 1855. In 1858, he brought his bride there to live with him and 2 of their 18 children were born in their tree home. While Herbig, his wife and children eventually moved to a more comfortable home, the tree remains, alive and well.

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Peru Tours
Wednesday, December 14th, 2011 /

Peru is a wonderful holiday destination in South America. Although most famously known for Machu Picchu, one of the new Seven Wonders of the World and a popular tourist destination, Peru has much more to offer to seasoned tourists.

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, 80 kilometres northwest of the city Cusco, is an Inca site situation high in the sky. The famous 15th-century lost city of the Incas is located 2,430 metres above sea level. Archaeologists believe that Machu Picchu was constructed as an estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti. Although locals have known about Machu Picchu for centuries, global attention on the amazing site has only been in the last century.

Peru also has a large amount of the Amazon rainforest, second only to Brazil. The Peruvian rainforest covers nearly 60 percent of the country, providing tourists with lush and diverse landscapes, plant life and animals. Peru also has the Andean mountain range and the Pacific ocean which provides a unique ecosystem.

Colca Canyon is a site not to be missed. The canyon is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in the United States. You can book overnight or sightseeing tours to the Colca Canyon from Arequipa, which is Peru’s second largest city. The ride to the canyon is spectacular, passing through volcano and mountain towns, sometimes as high as 4,900 metres above sea level. 

Colca Canyon

Lima, Peru’s largest and capital city, has many historical and cultural sights. Home to numerous museums and historical cathedrals, Lima is also a coastal city with stunning beaches along the Pacific Ocean. Delicious restaurants, clubs and plenty of places for shopping makes Lima a must-see for any traveller in Peru on holiday. 

Lake Titicaca, located on the border of Peru and Bolivia, is the highest lake in the world, sitting at 3,811 metres above sea level. It is also the largest lake in South America and is home to floating reed islands. These islands are inhabited by Uros tribe, a tribe that dates back to pre-Incan times. 

The Ballestas Islands, near the beach town of Paracas, can be accessed by tour boats. The tours typically take two hours. Like the Galapagos Islands, these small islands are home to many rare birds, including penguins. You can also witness sea lions, dolphins and whales while taking the boat tour and visiting the islands.

Ballestas Islands

The Peruvian Andes, famous for glaciers and snow-covered peaks, are located in Central Peru. Cordillera Blanca, the highest range of the Peruvian Andes, is in north central Peru, approximately 420 kilometres north of Lima. The range includes Huascarán. At 6,768 metres, this mountain is the highest in Peru and the third highest in the Western Hemisphere. 

Peru can make a wonderful holiday destination, offering these activities and plenty more. Peru is rich with history of various cultures, offering archaeological relics and modern conveniences that can make everyone happy on holiday. If you decide to visit Peru, there are plenty of tours and travel excursions that can help you see all of the places you want to see.

Click here for great deals and offers on Peru tours and Escorted Tours.

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Want a Romantic Honeymoon? Choose From These Top Destinations in the Bahamas
Tuesday, December 13th, 2011 /

There’s no doubt about it, a wedding and honeymoon in the Bahamas is a dream for many newly engaged couples. What many couples don’t consider is the sheer number of destinations available in the chain of islands. If you are planning a wedding at home and a honeymoon in the tropics, how do you choose the perfect destination? We’ve tried to make the searching easier for you by narrowing down the list! Here are our picks for the top five honeymoon destinations in the Bahamas:

The Abacos
If you’re looking for the perfect romantic setting for your first holiday as a married couple, look no further than the Abacos Islands. Picturesque cottages and luxurious yachts moored to the shore give this destination a storybook feel. Diving along the reefs of the island, couples are privy to shipwrecks and fantastically diverse sea life. Relax on the pristine white beaches by day and allow yourselves to be catered to and pampered by superbly trained hotel staff. When you’re ready to venture out, Treasure Cay and Marsh Harbour offer a delicious night scene.

The Abacos

Paradise Island
Paradise Island is known well as the Vegas of the Bahamas. Stunning beaches are complimented by a bustling night life full of gaming, revues and nightclubs. Fine dining can be had at any number of the stunning restaurants on the island and pristine white sands are the perfect locale for soaking up the tropical sun. For an incredibly romantic evening, visit the Cloister and watch the sunset as you surround yourselves with tropical gardens and classically ornate statues.

The Exumas
If you want a locale that is a bit less crowded and a bit more secluded, this is the destination for you. Portions of majestic plantations remain and rolling green hills offer a picturesque setting for any activity. Friendly locals are more than happy to answer questions and guide you in the direction of fabulous activities that include snorkeling and diving in startling clear waters. Seclusion is easily found in this chain of islands that are far less developed but no less accommodating than others in the Bahamas.

The Exumas - Bahamas

Andros
The perfect locale for nature lovers; dense forest cover the island that is Andros. Acres of land have been preserved on the island that is home to over 40 species of wild orchid, flamingos, parrots and whistling ducks. After exploring the stunning scenery on land, head to the crystal clear waters and discover amazingly mysterious blue holes and forests of elkhorn coral. Andros is a true nature lover’s paradise.

Eleuthera
Pineapple plantations, dramatic cliffs and colonial villages dot this small island in the tropics. You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time the minute you deplane. Pink tinged white-sand beaches, perfect for sunbathing and relaxing, border turquoise waters. Absolutely free from crowds, you’re sure to begin married life as privately as possible. Though the island is small, visitors are never at a loss for activity should they desire to partake.

Ned Stolmeyer is a travel enthusiast and shares his experiences among many popular travel sites. As a frequent traveler and a father of two children, traveling with ease is of the up most importance. He has found his membership in a vacation club to save him time and money on his many trips worldwide.

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Top 4 Tourist Attractions in San Francisco
Monday, December 12th, 2011 /

The beautiful city of San Francisco is actually part of a 7×7 square mile landmass barely connected to the landmass of California. This accounts for the large and impressive bridges for which the city is known. Although San Francisco is frequented by millions of visitors each year, there still remains a friendly and welcoming vibe throughout. This guide introduces you to the top 4 tourist attractions in the city, as well as providing information on the accommodation options surrounding the site.

1. The Golden Gate Bridge: This incredible structure is what most people think of when San Francisco is mentioned. At almost 9,000 feet across, it dominates the surrounding landscape. It has been called one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, and can be viewed from along the shoreline or walked across on the pedestrian walkways. On nearby Lombard Street, still within the Gold Gate district, there are dozens of boutique hotels offering accommodation to visitors.

The Golden Gate Bridge

2. Pier 39: This is without a doubt the busiest and most popular tourism attraction in San Francisco. Located in the Fisherman’s Wharf area, Pier 39 takes up over 45 acres, much of it actually being a large pier. The area is famed for the many hearty seafood restaurants serving up specialities like clam chowder in bread bowls, as well as an emphasis on the marine life in the form of an aquarium, marina and sea lions sunning themselves on the pier. A walk of just a few minutes will bring you to nearly 100 hotels, including every big hotel chain you can imagine. For a quieter, more intimate look at life in San Francisco, consider one of the smaller independent boutique inns.

Pier 39

3. Chinatown: San Francisco is home to the largest Chinese community living outside of Asia, and the Chinatown district is an incredible glimpse into the diversity of the city. Not only can you experience wet markets, authentic Chinese restaurants and a dense population, many of who are foreign born, but you can see where Chinatown blends into the rest of San Francisco, becoming a melting pot of sorts. Don’t miss the incredibly small Gold Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, making it onto nearly every tour of the area. You can find several accommodation choices in the area, both long and short term, including several fabulous boutique hotels.

4. Alcatraz Island: The famed Alcatraz Penitentiary is located on an island just off the coast of San Francisco, and can be reached by ferries which depart of tours multiple times each day. No longer in use as a jail, it served as a prison for the toughest inmates, as it was deemed impossible to escape. Al Capone was one of the more famous inmates who called it home. While there are no accommodation on the island itself, you can find plenty of great small and independent hotels just near the launch at Fisherman’s Wharf.

Wherever you decide to explore while on your holiday in San Francisco, be sure to find convenient and comfortable accommodations in one of the many friendly, welcoming boutique hotels in the city.

Click here for great offers at the W Hotel San Francisco and boutique hotels San Francisco.

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Caloundra on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast
Monday, December 12th, 2011 /

When you look at an aerial view of Caloundra on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, the first thing you will notice is the beaches. While the whole of the Sunshine Coast is lined with beaches, Caloundra has more than its fair share. In fact, a rundown of all Caloundra beaches forces you to categorise them. In Caloundra, you can find family beaches, sports beaches and romantic beaches.

Caloundra

There are more than one of each category of beach, too. For example, four different Caloundra beaches are classified as family-friendly beaches. They are all different, but they all are protected from the brunt of the waves that pound the surf beaches in the area. Bulcock Beach, for example, is a small beach not far from the Caloundra town centre. Families love to go there for picnics and to stroll out onto the boardwalk. The other three family beaches, Golden (the largest), Currimundi and Dicky Beach, are all equally family-friendly.

Moffat Beach is another kettle of fish altogether. Surfers from all over Australia know that when they are on the Sunshine Coast, they will head straight for Moffat Beach in Caloundra. Moffat isn’t just for surfer’s though. The coastal walk out to Moffat Headland is something everyone will enjoy and the wonderful alfresco cafes in Moffat cater to everyone’s appetite.

South of Moffatt is a long stretch of isolated beaches and tidal pools known as Shelly Beach. Romantic couples stroll hand-in-hand out to the more isolated parts of the beach to enjoy being together in a marvelously tranquil natural environment. The currents are very strong on this exposed part of the headland, so it’s not recommended for children, but it does have a wonderful undeveloped wilderness feel to it.

Also classified as a "romantic beach," but really enjoyed by everyone is the long stretch of beach known as Kawana Beach. You can stroll for miles on Kawana Beach, keeping your feet cool by walking on the hard-packed low tide sand. If you prefer, rent a bicycle in town and take the wonderful coastal bike path, stopping off for a dip in the sea when the spirit moves you.

Caloundra

Of course, no matter how much you love the beach, you will want to get away from it from time to time and see what else Caloundra has to offer. You may be surprised to discover that there are over a dozen great art and craft galleries in Caloundra and its neighbouring towns. The Sunshine Coast attracts creative types and the galleries feature the works of many local artists and craftspeople, as well as national and international artists.

Caloundra was officially recognised as the tidiest town in Queensland in 2008. The pride the Caloundra locals take in their community is evident everywhere, including Caloundra accommodation options. Whether you stay at a campground, a backpackers lodge, a family motel or a fully appointed 4 1/2 Star Caloundra resort, you will be taken care of in style and comfort. If you’re looking for a great Sunshine Coast getaway, stay in Caloundra – the city of beaches.

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