Exploring Spain's Stunning City of Barcelona

By Rhiannon Davies

The stunning Spanish coastal city of Barcelona is famous as a lively, dynamic, beautiful and thrilling location, which makes it a favourite with holidaymakers as well as those looking to live abroad.

If you've never experienced Spain or you've yet to experience the best European city break destinations, Barcelona comes highly recommended.

Because of the city's location you can also use Barcelona as a base to explore the Spanish Mediterranean coastline, cities such as Madrid, Valencia and Seville, and you can also easily travel from Barcelona to the ski resorts of the Pyrenees and the Andorran or French countryside.

Barcelona benefits from having some of the best city transport links in Europe - it is a busy port town, it has a sophisticated international airport, national and continental rail links and a decent road network as well.

These are all points in the city's favour as a starting point for further exploration of the delights around Barcelona - but what about the attractions of the city itself?

Well, architecturally speaking Barcelona has it all - it is world renowned for its modernistic Gaudi structures and yet it is also famous for its Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture too. Within the city there are museums, galleries, art centres, cinemas, theatres, concert venues and shopping malls - and within a stone's throw of the city centre you have the beach and amusement parks for all the family to enjoy.

As you can no doubt tell already, there is more to Barcelona than can be experienced and enjoyed in a weekend break! In fact, it's fair to say that Barcelona is a city to be savoured which is probably why it's becoming a popular destination for those who want to live and work abroad and experience a new life, new languages and new cultural horizons.

So, if you're interested in seeing more of Spain and Europe, you'd like to live and work abroad, learn about the Spanish culture and enjoy the fantastic standard of living and way of life in Barcelona, why not consider basing yourself in the city, getting a short term employment contract, finding a rental apartment and having a long working holiday in Barcelona?

Rhiannon Davies writes about living and working abroad, to read more about living and property in Spain and Barcelona visit her site ShelterOffshore.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rhiannon_Davies

The City Museum Of The Caribbean Sea

By Giselle Rodriguez

Tradition and history are combined in the city of Trinidad, located in the province of Sancti Spíritus, in the south coast of the Cuban central region, at 370 km. of Havana. Founded in the early 16 th century in honour of the Holy Trinity, the city was the third village founded by Spaniards in the island of Cuba. Trinidad was a bridgehead for the conquest of the American continent, and it was the home of rich landowners who constructed beautiful mansions and palaces. This fascinating place, also known as the city-museum of the Caribbean, it's considered a National Monument and it's one of the most attractive destinations for those who prefer going on vacations to Cuba.

This city is recognized as an architectural jewel. Frozen in the past, Trinidad exhibits a unique site, where the beauty of its nearly untouched colonial style grants the city the credit of being one of the most complete and best preserved colonial architectural groups of the American continent, an authentic invitation to photograph. Its houses and churches, its colonial mansions that became museums, all of Trinidad reminds us ancient times, like some kind of nostalgic evocation of the colonial epoch.

Trinidad offers many interesting cultural attractions for your cuba vacations. Among them are the Manaca-Iznaga tower, located in the area where one of the most influencing families of the region made its fortune, the Valle de los Ingenios, the beaches, the Tope de Collantes Mountains, as well as the art and craft traditions characterizing the small city. Its urban center stands out for its cobblestoned streets and appealing constructions protected and decorated by railings with singular shapes.

Thanks to the rich urban setting, the small squares and beautiful buildings that date from the Spanish colonial time, Trinidad has been declared by UNESCO Humanity's heritage, along with the nearby Valle de los Ingenios.

The visitor can appreciate the architecture of its 18 th and 19 th century buildings, such as the Palacio Brunet and the Palacio Cantero, which were built in the city's days of prosperity derived from the sugar trade. A combination of neoclassic and baroque styles in Trinidad's architecture is testimony of a history of opulence and wealth.

The city of Trinidad constitutes an important touristy attraction in the island. The best places of interest are located in the historical center where visiting the Plaza Mayor has become very popular fir its surrounding remarkable residences of the city: the house of the regidor Ortíz, today Gallery of Art Benito Ortíz, the house of Padrón (Museum of Archaeology Guamuhaya), the Palace of Conde Brunet (Romantic Museum), and the house of the Sanchez Iznaga family (Museum of Architecture). Another appeal of the city is the Iglesia Mayor de la Santísima Trinidad, considered one of the largest churches of Cuba which reunites several pieces of great value like the Christ of the Vera Cruz and an altar dedicated to the Virgin of Mercy.

Around the Plaza Mayor other outstanding constructions like the Cantero Palace can be admired, where the Museum of History is located at the moment; I also suggest visiting other places of cultural interest like the House of the Trova and the House of Music. In the same way the visitor can make a stop in the bar the Canchánchara, to taste a traditional drink of the same name, made with brandy, honey and lemon.

Near the city, an excursion that must be in every visitor's itinerary is a visit to the Valle de San Luis also called Valle de los Ingenios since it was beset of sugar factories in the 18 th century.
This valley is a true archaeological monument to the sugar industry because numerous ruins of the facilities related to the manufacture of sugar are conserved, like sugar mills, the large cabins of slaves, the summer houses, etc. I recommend admiring the elegant bell tower of the Manaca-Iznaga tower which was used in the past to keep an eye on the slaves. In this valley the visitor can enjoy the countryside; horse riding, the excursions to caves and rivers and the towns like San Pedro, considered a Natural Museum of the African Culture in Cuba.

Other sites are the Viewpoint of La Vigía with a wonderful view of the region, the Plaza de Carrillo, also known as the Parque Céspedes where the Parish of San Francisco de Paula, constructed in the 19 th century, is located. Nearby there is also the Bar Cafeteria Daikiri and the Casa Fisher places chosen by the Casa Artex to organize many cultural activities. In addition, one of the best views of the city can be obtained from the tower of the Convent of San Francisco de Asís.

Culture and history followers will find in the city of Trinidad and its surroundings a unique place to be on holidays. One can ramble by its spotted streets and appreciate its diversity of styles, visit its museums and its cultural facilities, and enjoy the work of the local artists of pottery, crafts, weave, music and dance; living the rhythm of a city full of customs and traditions, where popular culture will captivate any guest.

Furthermore, very close to the city, one can discover the mountainous zone of Topes de Collantes only 19 kilometres away; an ideal place for the diverse existing variants of ecotourism and tourism of health; while to the south, in the Peninsula de Ancón, the best beach of the South coast of the country can be found: the Playa Ancón.

Museums, churches, sugar mills, buildings, squares and small squares of Trinidad, the city-museum of the Caribbean Sea, constitute one of the highest expressions of national history available. This, combined with its friendly and welcoming people, make this city a great choice for your cuba vacations.

Giselle Rodríguez is a Blogger at http://www.umbrellatravel.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Giselle_Rodriguez

Is Paris Really The Most Romantic City In The World?

By Amy Graybeal

This week's poll asked our community what type of location they would prefer for a romantic getaway. The results beg the question: is Paris really the most romantic city in the world?

47% said they would prefer a beach getaway. Mountains and countryside locations tied for second place at 21% each. And finally, tourist cities brought up the rear at 11%. While Paris may be considered the city of love, our users say they prefer a beach vacation over a tourist city. So what are couples looking for in a romantic vacation?

Couples are looking for time away from the hectic lives they live. They're looking to reconnect. They want to refocus to what matters in life - and that's love.

Beaches and other low stress surroundings like mountains and countryside help set the tone for a romantic getaway focused on each other - not sightseeing, schedules, and obligations.

But regardless of location, any vacation can be romantic. Here are some planning tips to help kindle the romance on your next vacation:

1. Make the journey comfortable. There's nothing worse than starting a vacation with stress and bad tempers. Try to mitigate as many unpleasant travel issues as possible. If you're traveling by air, try packing warm socks, blankets, pillows, Tylenol, snacks, and any other comfort item you can get past security.

2. Leave some unplanned time in your schedule. Don't plan out the vacation like a work schedule. Leave time for items of interest or just to lounge around. Romantic vacations should be about connecting with your partner so leave some empty time to do just that!

3. Plan a surprise romantic treat. Many hotels these days offer some type of romantic offering whether it be turndown service, spa treatments, flowers in the room, or just Champagne and strawberries. Plan a special romantic surprise upon arrival to set a nice romantic tone for the vacation.

4. Adjust your frame of mind. Before you even leave the house, get into the right frame of mind. Make reconnecting your central thought and loving your partner your central feeling. If you're not going to be open, honest, loving, caring, thoughtful, happy - it really defeats the purpose of going.

Amy is the Founder & President of Magic of Romance, Inc

http://www.magicofromance.com

Magic of Romance features free romantic ideas, travel for lovers, and advice on relationships. She attended the Business School at Georgia Tech. She currently resides in Sandy Springs. She enjoys discovering new travel destinations, reading new books with a good cup of coffee, and watching movies.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amy_Graybeal

Aljawzaa Dubai Marina - Dubai Property Advice On The International City

By Sophia K

Aljawzaa is a union of conventional and contemporary structural design. It is located in the esteemed International City Phase 3, offers easy entrée to all the key attractions in Dubai.

Aljawzaa pretty much demonstrates Dubai's cosmopolitan make-up. The whole city of Aljawzaa is quite a big complex spread across eight hundred hectares of prime real estate. As Aljawzaa offers a wide array of business opportunities and residential options, this is hardly a surprise that it attracts lot of international as well as local investors.

According to a study, Aljawzaa will accommodate more than 60,000 residents in the coming years. In other words, Aljawzaa will play a prominent role in sustaining the region's booming tourism industry. Aljawzaa offers convenience and ease to both investors and residents. Each apartment is fully equipped with the latest facilities reflecting meticulous attention to every detail. All the apartments within the freehold development project are well priced and come with equally attractive payment plans.

The best part about Aljawzaa is that it merges conventional design with modern comforts, which in turn gives both residents and investor’s an opportunity and convenience for comfortable living as well as business. Aljawzaa offers residents a culturally diverse environment, thanks to the unique blend of global architecture. Comfort is the buzzword in Aljawzaa as the apartments are fully equipped with all the modern amenities.

Some Features of Aljawzaa Dubai Marina Apartments

• Outdoor swimming pool and garden
• Sauna and steam room
• Superior finishing with insulated walls and double-glazing
• Hi-tech gymnasium
• Heat, soundproof and double colored glass
• High quality doors and sanitary ware
• Fully furnished kitchens with brand name refrigerators, gas cookers
• Parking facilities

If you want to invest in real estate market of Dubai, investing in Aljawzaa is a very lucrative deal as not only location wise Aljawzaa is a profitable option but also there is no match for the kind of amenities that are offered here. However, before you buy any property in Aljawzaa or enter into any contract, make sure that you have read the terms and conditions carefully, to avoid any unpleasant consequences.

Sophia K is the webmaster for Dubai Real Estate Property Advice website, which provides you with the information about Dubai real estate and property markets advice to enable you to decide what to buy and where to invest sensibly in real estate property markets in Dubai, UAE region.

London Calling - The City of Old and the City of New

By Elisha Burberry

As far as cities go, there are few that can rival London’s bold, brash and bustling vibrancy. Not only is it a modern, cosmopolitan epicentre of international activity, it is also steeped in history, having been settled for almost two thousand years, including periods of Roman and even Viking rule.

It could be said that London has more than its fair share of iconic images, from Big Ben and Tower Bridge to Buckingham Palace and red double-decker buses. But these photo-friendly attractions may only offer limited entertainment for the snap-happy tourist, and as beautiful and historically significant as they are, it’s important to remember that London has so much more to offer. In fact, there’s no shortage of things to do in London that will appeal to all interests and budgets.

For starters, there’s the British Museum which is open every day and has free entry. It holds in trust for the UK one of the finest collections of art and antiquities in existence, including the Rosetta Stone which dates from 196 BC, and its subsequent discovery in 1799 which led to the deciphering of Egyptian hieroglyphs. Then there is the London Eye; the world’s tallest observation wheel, located on the banks of the River Thames and offering unparalleled views of the capital's skyline.

For outdoor activities, London doesn’t disappoint, as it has five football teams in England’s Premier League. So whether it’s a ticket for a title-decider or a tour of Arsenal’s impressive new Emirates stadium, there’s a lot on offer. Furthermore, London has plenty of sprawling parklands including Hyde Park and Regents Park which offer everything from boating, tennis and cricket to cycling, jogging and, perhaps more appealingly, fine-dining by the Serpentine Lake.

If that doesn’t appeal, then there’s also the opportunity to engage in some retail therapy in many of London’s shopping hotspots, including Covent Garden, which has everything from small boutiques to large High Street stores, not to mention an abundance of pubs, cafes and street performers that make Covent Garden a lively experience.

But, perhaps the one aspect of London that makes it such a prominent player in the world community is its position as a major transport hub, which consists of five international airports, a port and the largest underground railway system in Europe, in terms of route length. It also has a direct train-link with Europe via the Channel Tunnel, making it possible to reach central London from Paris in less than three hours without having to go near an airport.

With such connections to the international community, it’s little wonder that so many people choose to visit London, with more than 26 million overnight visits in 2006. And with London set to host the Olympics in 2012, the demand for hotels in London can only intensify, as it prepares to welcome even more visitors in the build up to one of the world’s greatest sporting events.

With its activities, vibrancy and accessibility, London seems to have all roads leading to it - sending out the aura that London is indeed calling.

Elisha Burberry is an online, freelance journalist and keen traveller and watersports enthusiast. Originally from Scotland, she now resides in London.

Dubai Lifestyle - The History of the City and Day to Day Life in Dubai

By Rhiannon Williamson

Background Information to the United Arab Emirates and Dubai: -

Dubai is one of the seven states that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE); it is located in the Middle East. The UAE borders the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf and is situated between Oman and Saudi Arabia. The United Arab Emirates was formed in 1971 by the then ‘Trucial States’ after their independence from Britain.

The UAE is governed by a Supreme Council of Rulers, the council is made up of the seven emirs and they appoint the prime minister and the cabinet for the country. Despite being ultimately ruled by the Supreme Council, as with the other six states, Dubai maintains a large degree of autonomy from the UAE when it comes to general decision making for the city’s development.

Oil was first discovered in the United Arab Emirates in the 1950s, before that the country’s economy was built on fishing and pearling, since 1962, when Abu Dhabi became the first of the emirates to begin exporting the oil, the country's economy has been completely transformed.

Sheikh Zayed, who has been the president of the UAE since its inception, quickly understood the economic potential for the country from the oil industry. He has continued to ensure that each of the emirates benefits from the oil generated wealth, he has insisted on the reinvestment of oil revenues into the healthcare system, the education system and the general national infrastructure.

The development of the oil industry has led to a large influx of foreign workers to the UAE, in fact Dubai’s population is the fastest growing in the world and the foreign population makes up about three quarters of the entire UAE population! As a direct result of this fact the UAE is one of the most liberal countries in the Gulf, with other cultures and beliefs tolerated. Dubai has also been quick to understand the need for diversification. Oil in the region is only projected to last for about 30 years and so Dubai has successfully embarked upon a major diversification program aimed to at developing industries and commercial enterprises to take the place of oil as the predominate commodity of the state's economy.

The climate in Dubai is sub-tropical and arid or desert like. The city enjoys almost year round sunny blue skies. Rain is infrequent and if it does fall, it falls in the winter.

Temperatures range from lows of 10°C to extreme summer highs of 48°C. The average maximum daily temperature in January is 24°C and the average maximum daily temperature in July is 41°C when humidity is very high.

About the city of Dubai
Dubai is recognised as the commercial and tourism capital of the UAE and is globally regarded as one of the most sophisticated, futuristic and cosmopolitan cities in the world, in fact Dubai is something of a phenomenon! It is an Arab Muslim society with the fastest growing foreign population in the world, and it has successfully developed harmony through ethnic diversity. It is a city with unrivalled levels of economic energy and architectural ambition, a unique city of contrasts where the most modern and architecturally stunning skyscrapers stand alongside traditional beautiful Arabic structures.

The experiences and attractions available in Dubai are many and varied. From the miles of immaculate beautiful white sandy beaches to the richly exotic Arabian heritage, from the awe inspiring majesty of the desert to the lively international bars, restaurants and nightclubs – a visitor to Dubai is guaranteed an incredible, never to be forgotten experience. In 2003 Dubai was voted safest holiday destination in the world by Conde Nast Traveller magazine, and in fact Dubai is recognised globally as one of the safest cities in the world. Living in Dubai you will find that it is virtually crime-free with the Dubai police ensuring personal safety and security. Anyone found guilty of committing a serious crime will be severely punished. Alcohol and drug related offences are considered serious.

The economy of the city of Dubai is a mainly service-driven economy, with every business amenity from banking to telecommunications offered. International trading and industrialisation are actively encouraged through the provision of favourable taxation advantages, offshore status, specialist free trade zones etc. Recent innovative projects in the city include the foundation of Dubai Media City and Dubai Internet City, bringing 21st century technology to Dubai in the world's very first ‘Free Zone’ wholly dedicated to e-business.

Day to Day Life in Dubai

Accommodation
If you are considering moving to Dubai one of your first thoughts will no doubt be finding somewhere to live. This is not something you’ll find too tricky, there are many companies advertising rental accommodation in the classified sections of local newspapers and they offer everything from private villas to luxury apartments or even shared accommodation. Whatever your budgetary and lifestyle requirements are, the specialist relocation and housing companies will be sure to have something to assist you. If you prefer to find your accommodation privately and avoid any agency costs, many people use supermarkets notice boards to advertise or request accommodation.

In terms of which areas of the city offer the type of accommodation you are after, Jumeirah, Umm Sequiem and the Safa Park area are upmarket and offer villa-type accommodation. Satwa and Garhoud also offer villas but are slightly cheaper. Rashidiya, Mirdif and Al Quoz are mainly Arabic areas and they actually attract a lot of expats.

If you are after an apartment the most popular areas are around Bur Dubai, the Sheikh Zayed Road with cheaper flats are available in Deira, Satwa and Karama. Some of the more exclusive apartment developments offer shared gym and pool facilities together with garaged car parking and the like.

Education
If you are considering moving to Dubai with family and are interested in finding out about the education system and the availability and quality of schools, one of the best ways is to ask around! Because of the numbers of expats in Dubai there is actually a large number of primary and secondary schools from which you can to choose. Most schools are private fee paying schools and really the best way to get an idea of the reputation of a school is to ask friends, colleagues and other expats who live in Dubai. Many of the schools also have their own websites where you can learn about the curriculum they follow, after school programs etc.

When it comes to enrolling your child in the UAE there are a few restrictions you should be aware of. For example you are not allowed to change your child’s school during the academic year…unless approval is given by the Ministry of Education and the circumstances are ‘special’.

This means that you have to make sure the school you choose for your child will definitely suit them. Another restriction you should be aware of is that is you move to Dubai on or after the 1st May each year you can’t enrol your child into the schooling system for that year. Instead you’ll have to enrol for the beginning of the new school year which is usually the beginning of September.

Health
Another consideration you may have if thinking about relocation to Dubai may be the state of the health care system available there. It is fair to say that Dubai has many very well equipped hospitals and surgeries. Dubai’s Department of Health and Medical Services runs Dubai, Rashid, Maktoum and Al Wasl hospitals, with Dubai Hospital one of the best medical centres in the entire Middle East. Al Wasl is a maternity and gynaecology hospital.

The Department of Health also run out patient clinics or surgeries and in addition there are a number of quality private hospitals in Dubai offering in and out patient facilities – e.g., The American and Welcare Hospitals. Overall both the private and publicly offered health care services in Dubai are first class.

Working
Working in Dubai you will enjoy a tax free salary and all shop goods can be bought at tax free prices, making it an incredibly attractive city to international workers and international companies. Job opportunities in Dubai and diverse and plentiful, particularly since the additions of the Media and Internet cities…Dubai is a city expanding its horizons at an unrivalled rate.

It is important to mention that some countries worldwide have tax laws enabling them to tax their nationals on their worldwide income. It is important to check your status with an international accountant before taking up employment in the city.

Lifestyle
Dubai has a thriving expat population who make the most of their tax free lifestyle in this amazing city of opportunity. The nightlife in the city is excellent, with cocktail bars, wine bars, themed bars and typical British or Irish pubs available, many of which offer food and entertainment as well.

High standard international cuisine is available in the city’s many restaurants and if you are looking for lively evening entertainment there are numerous night clubs around the city. Some of the clubs attract international DJs; there are also Middle Eastern, Indian and Asian nightclubs offering entertainment with singers and dancers. Dubai also welcomes international touring singing and entertainment acts which cater to all tastes and ages…from traditional theatre groups to ballet, from opera to international rock and pop bands - all are regular visitors to the United Arab Emirates.

You can be assured of an exciting pace of life in Dubai and a high standard of living.

Rhiannon Williamson is an experienced publisher who has produced articles for leading travel and tourism guides and financial magazines. Her specialist knowledge about both travel and finance gives her site Shelter Offshore the unique ability to literally cover every single aspect of moving & living abroad - including the often less discussed offshore tax advantages that can be available when leaving our homeland.

Delhi- A City Of Countless Wonders

By Adam Singleton

As the second largest metropolis in India, Delhi has a vast amount to explore. From its rich history and culture to truly thrilling seasonal attractions, anyone who visits Delhi is sure to come away with an experience unlike any other.

For instance, Delhi hosts a number of spectacular celebrations and National events throughout the year. Republic Day (26 January) has a large cultural and military parade, while Independence Day - held on August 15th - invites everyone to celebrate by flying kites - a symbol of freedom. The Qutub is another cultural event which is held every September and sees performances by musicians and dancers from across India. The Spring Festival and International Mango Festival attract countless tourists and nationals each year. So, if you plan your visit to Delhi to coincide with these times of year, you'll have the added pleasure of partaking in the country's most celebrated events.

Holidaying in Delhi wouldn’t be complete without a taste of the region's fantastic cuisine. Local delicacies include Chaat and Dahi-Papri, available in restaurants and through street vendors alike but due to Delhi's cosmopolitan population, cuisines from every part of India can be found in the city.

Delhi is also a shopper's paradise. The markets of Old Delhi hold an eclectic range of products - from foods and spices to jewellery and textiles. Visitors can also find arts and crafts unique to Delhi's distinctive style, including Zardozi (embroidery with gold thread) or Meenakari (enamelled art). And if you're after the stunning fashion sense of India, Chandni Chowk, a three century-old shopping district that's popular for its jewellery and saris, is not to be missed.

A glance in any direction in the city of Delhi will reveal some aspect of the city's vast culture and history. Aside from the countless monuments strewn about the city (175 alone are national heritage sites while another two are World Heritage Sites), the city holds legacies of its rich Mughal past among the old city's narrow lanes and crowded markets.

Some of Delhi’s top architectural attractions include the Purana Qila fortress, Red Fort, the India Gate and the modern Bahá'í Lotus Temple. One of Delhi's most spectacular sites is undoubtedly the Jama Masjid - the great mosque of 'Old' Delhi.

Built in 1644, Jama Masjid was one of the last architectural indulgences commissioned by Shah Jahan - the Mughal emperor, who also built the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort. And with a courtyard capable of holding 25,000 worshippers, Jama Masjid is renowned as the largest mosque in India.

If you're planning a trip to Delhi to experience the Jama Masjid - among countless other splendors - it's best to book your flights well in advance to get the best deals;
particularly if you're planning to travel during the spring or autumn months. You'll find a number of airlines which offer direct flights to Delhi from London - so getting there is easy. So, don't miss out on one of the most exciting, beautiful and historic cities in India - visit Delhi on your next holiday!

Adam Singleton is an online, freelance journalist and keen amateur photographer. His portfolio, called Capquest Photography is available to view online.