Spain's Gem: Barcelona

When talking about the best vacation spots in Europe, or the world for that matter, Barcelona is one of those cities that will never go amiss in the list. It is fittingly dubbed as the Mediterranean jewel with an all-in-one package of offerings that will delight all types of tourists. The country is also rich in over 2,000 years of history so you will be in awe at what you can find at literally every corner. This world travel guide will show you exactly what you need to do and where you had to go when in Barcelona to make the most of your stay.

An integral part of Barcelona's identity as a tourist destination and a Spanish city is its artistic and architectural tradition. Indeed, there are plenty of cultural and sightseeing attractions that you can find in the city with most of them several centuries old. Antoni Gaudi's Sagrada Familia or Church of the Sacred Family is among those religious and architectural sites in Barcelona that you must include in the itinerary. Another famous work of Gaudi is Casa Mila, which is an apartment complex visited by lots of tourists in this Spanish city. Other cultural sites and attractions that you can check out include La Seu or Cathedral of Santa Eulalia, Barri Gotic, Las Ramblas, Picasso Museum, and the National Art Museum of Catalonia.

If you are not the one to be interested in cultural or historical sites, don't fret because the Barcelona world travel guide has more options for you. The gourmet delights of Barcelona, for instance, is one of those that has drawn lots of tourists in this side of the world. Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria is a shopping center that is also a go-to place for all those who love food. This 17th century plaza is home to bakers, farmers, and all those culinary masters that offer their unique Spanish culinary treats to visitors. The plaza is lined up with restaurants and bars so you can take your pick according to budget and individual preferences.

But if you want a more exciting way to get your fill on the city's gourmet delights, why not participate in Barcelona walking tours? The entire walking tour usually lasts for up to 2 hours with an option to have either an English- or Spanish-speaking tour guide. Stops will generally include Granja Viader, Carrer de Petritxol, and Cafe d'la Opera. But if you have a sweet tooth, you will be thrilled to sample some of the sweet treats at two of Barcelona's most famous chocolate and pastry shops Pastisseria Escriba and Xocolateria Fargas.

The nightlife in Barcelona is also something that you should try to experience once in a while. Most new tourists to the city are surprised to know that they do have a vibrant nightlife. World travel guide suggests visiting between May to October wherein beach bars (or locally known as chiringuitos) line up the urban beaches as locals and tourists partake in a night of frivolity. Barcelona's nightlife is indeed characterized by great music, exciting bars, and eccentric characters that you will surely remember long after you've left.

And to relax after a wild night, you can take a stroll along the beaches of Barcelona or have a dip in the blue Mediterranean waters. If you want to have a truly relaxing time, take your pick from any of the following beaches: Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, St Pol de Mar Beach, Ocata Beach, and Sitges Beach. Don't miss out on the chance to experience some down time after a hectic shopping and strolling all over the city.

Take note of this world travel guide to be among the locals and experience everything that this city has gotten famous for!

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The Amazing Loch Lomond

Many of us live in cities with all the crowds, stress, noise and dirt in the environment. Most probably we have not often come across nature, searched for it or even be one with it. But there is this marvelous place in central Scotland that will surely blow you away; a dream place for those wanting to escape from a boring and almost monotonous pace of city life.

With exuding natural beauty of a 24-mile-long freshwater lake interspersed with picturesque islands, diverse landscapes and medieval castles, all these existing components makes up the lovable loch that we call, the Loch Lomond.

Loch Lomond is a freshwater Scottish “loch” lying on the Highland Boundary Fault, the boundary between the lowlands and highlands of Central Scotland. Measuring 27 and a half square miles, it is the largest single inland waterway in Great Britain (by surface area), the second largest lake in Scotland and most probably the most famous lake after Loch Ness. It is now part of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, Scotland's first national park and most spectacular visitor destination. The loch has 30 or more other islands, some so small that they disappear when the water levels are high, and others large enough to be (sparsely) inhabited. One of the loch's islands, Inchmurrin is the largest island in the British Isles, while Inchconnachan island is home to a colony of wallaby (marsupial), its young is known as “joey” just like many other marsupials.

The very name Loch Lomond depicts nothing but nature in perfection. The main tourist focus is on the western shore, around Balloch. This is the place to head for boat trips and home of the Maid of the Loch, an authentic paddle steamer and utterly unique venue for events and functions. Further, development is attracting large numbers of visitor like the this magnificent addition to the area, the Mull Railway, which will link Balloch and Loch Lomond Shores. Also on the western side are the villages of Arden, Tarbet and most northerly, Adlui. Arden boasts Scotland's most beautiful Youth Hostel. The most picturesque of the loch's villages is Luss on the west bank. Its streets are laid out in a linear pattern and were originally part of the planned estate village built by the Colquhouns. Recently restored, they present a pretty sight.

The loch is one of the country's premier boating and water sports venues. It is open to every kind of watercraft including kayaks, canoes, wind-surfers, jet skis, speedboats and cruisers. Having said all these, Loch Lomond presents the perfect retreat for the young, the old, the busy people who deserve to enjoy or get a life!

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Places to Visit in Surigao City

Blessed by its various natural wonders, consider the City of Surigao as your ideal summer capital. It is the hub of world-class beaches, hot springs, lagoons, caves and waterfalls.

Where to Go?

The Buenavista Cave is highly-recognized for its interior stone formation of stalactites and stalagmites. Getting here takes some time and you’ll still need to ride a boat, taking you to the Hikdop Island. From there, ask the tourist guide for some precaution tips before getting inside the cave.

The Looc Beach is your splendid getaway of beauty and serenity. Its well-carved rock formations and low cliffs brings extra sensual feel in the whole place. The water is crystal clear and it is hard to ignore the temptation to pick a number of smooth pebbles underneath.

The Luneta Park is the city’s historic park. This is the beautiful meeting place for the entire family. You can spend a very relaxing time under the shades of Acacia trees and your children can play in lounge areas.

The Manjagao Mangrove Forest serves as Surigao’s cradle of marine life and the hub to various species of fishes. Traveling along the carved water channel is a rare but enjoyable experience.

The Sagisi Island might be your typical beach resort but once you step into the entrance, you will realize its clear and blue waters are just your ideal haven for exciting water activities such as snorkeling, scuba-diving and swimming. Sagisi is just an hour ride from city proper.

The Surigaonon Heritage Center houses the several archeological and anthropological artifacts. Visit the place today and you’ll see more than 300 exhibits of local, national and international rocks and minerals.

How to Get in Surigao?

There are three ways to arrive at Surigao. Travel by land and you need to ride buses from Bicol, Samar, Leyte, Pasay and Tacloban. Daily trips are also available in all Mindanao Regions. Travel by sea and you will need to book your trip through popular shipping lines (Superferry, Sulpicio, TransAsia, etc). There are two airlines that regularly travel in Surigao from Manila (The Philippine Airlines) and Cebu (Cebu Pacific).

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Top 3 Countries for Honeymoon Destinations

What constitutes a memorable honeymoon destination? Every newlywed couple out there might say it’s the place, some will say it’s the weather and others prefer just anywhere as long as their budget fits right.

These days, there are hundreds of great locations ideal for your honeymoon. There are seven continents in the world and each country in each continent has something so extraordinary to offer. Whether you choose to live in a five-star hotel, get tan while getting wet in the beaches or tour around the historic ruins, the final decision to where to go is all up to you and your partner.

Of course, never ignore the amount of money you are willing to splurge. Months before your wedding day, it would be cost-effective if you already have booked a direct flight to your destination, applied for any affordable packages and every little thing you’ll need is locked inside your suitcase. This way, you and your better half will feel stress-free as the departure day arrives.

Where Are You Going?

United States of America: What things can you ask for in a land of milk and honey? There are plenty, right? It is also understandable that USA is a big country and it is clearly confusing you to choose the specific state to hang out. Yes, this decision can be difficult but take some time to research and you can surely trim down your choices to two.

According to About.com, Hawaii ranks as the number one in terms of honeymoon desirability is concerned. This archipelago of eight islands is well-blessed with beautiful beaches, hidden coves, first-class hotels, mouth-watering cuisines and fair weather. Whether you choose to be in Maui, Moloka or O’ahu, there is an ideal spot of attraction for your romantic getaway.

New York is the second state recommended for honeymoon destination. If you are looking for best restaurants, expensive hotels, non-forgettable theatrical plays, nothing can beat the busy streets of the Big Apple.

France: When someone is discussing about Europe, France is surely one of the most-discussed nations during the entire discussion. The country has a very rich history in terms of culture, arts, music, architecture and cuisine.

Its romantic city of Paris is considered the Grand City of Light, where hordes of historic attractions (Louvre Museum, Eiffel Tower, Centre Pompidou, Musee d’Orsay and Arc de Triomphe) are found. Other world-class cities in France that offers unlimited fun and loads of exciting activities are Cannes, Lyon, Nice, Marseille and Lille.

Thailand: It is already expected that almost half of beautiful tourist attractions are found in Asia. Asia is the biggest continent in the world and it is composed of sixty-percent world’s population. As of this writing, Thailand has been tagged as one of the, if not the first choice, destinations for honeymoon. The water-activities in Phuket are just never-ending. Dive, swim, fish, snorkel, boat etc. all these things are here. However, if you and your partner choose not to get wet, the Chiang Mai is just the perfect place for the both of you. The city will keep your mind busy with a series of physical activities such as camping, raft riding and mountain trekking.

Bangkok is also a popular destination. Every travel advisor online recommends this big city as your destination for either vacation or honeymoon. Like New York, it’s also the place for various shopping malls, hotels and amusements. All things are similar but you know the big difference, the country boats its Chao Praya River where you need to ride a boat to visit a temple (Wat Phra Kaew), to eat at street stalls or row in the south to visit the Asia’s largest outdoor market.

Just a quick reminder: It is advisable for you to visit the country between November and February. The weather is cooler and there are lesser rains during these months.

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Experience the Luxurious Life at Thunderbird Resorts

What is Thunderbird Resorts?

The Thunderbird Resorts is the only and the grandest five-star hotel located in the northern part of the Philippines (one in Rizal and the other one in Poro Point in La Union). Book a visit here and you’ll only experience a life living in the supreme resort venues and your dream peninsula.

The Thunderbird Resorts in Rizal is your serene sanctuary by the mountain. This is simply a spectacular venue ideal for relaxing and for rediscovering yourself. They pride themselves with their 41-suite luxury resort filled with tropical foliage, stylish interior design and all services are world-class.

Hop your way to Thunderbird Resorts in Poro Point, La Union if you are in search of nature’s beauty finely tuned by luxurious dips. The entire paradise is simply overwhelming and it’s overlooking the white sand beach stretching into the South China Sea.

Activities, Services & Accommodation

Every inch of luxury and comfort are seen and felt at Thunderbird Resorts. Whether you choose Rizal or Poro Point, take your time to indulge in their international cuisine and gourmet feasts. Go out to enchant yourself with their picturesque views and get thrilled with the unlimited fun and entertainment.

The Thunderbird Resorts in Rizal offers an array of excellent facilities. They have service facilities and it includes shuttle service, large parking areas, bell service, valet parking, concierge, laundry and 24-hours room services. You’ll surely not get bored with their sports and gaming facilities that include table tennis, beach volleyball, golf & obstacle course, infinity swimming pool, Fiesta Casino and the Cabana Bar. Meet and plan your business projects inside their Lobby Room, Narra Function Room or Pool Bar then satisfy your palate with their Asian Fusion Cuisine in KOI Restaurant.

The Thunderbird Resorts in Poro Point redefines the rich Mediterranean Architecture influenced by Greece. The entire place satisfies you with their ambient luxury suites with mini-bar, in-room kitchen, cable television, Jacuzzi-style bath, Internet connectivity and a dazzling panorama of the South China Sea. They also have a wide range of facilities: service (24-hour shuttle service, large parking areas, bell service, valet parking, concierge and laundry services, room service), sports (cliffs golf, beach club, Santorini swimming pool, basketball half-court, jogging path), meeting facilities (Patio Santorini, Lobby Meeting Room, Amphitheater), food & beverage outlets (Olives Restaurant, Pool Bar, Cabana Bar, Vegas Café and Patio Santorini).

Rates & Fees

For any reservations, inquiries and other concerns, just send a mail to Thunderbird Resorts – Rizal rizalreservations@thunderbird-asia.com and Thunderbird Resorts - Poro Point pororeservations@thunderbird-asia.com

How to Arrive at Thunderbird Resorts?

Rizal: A free shuttle service is available from Sta. Lucia East Grand Mall, SM City Taytay, Lores Mall in Antipolo and Angono & Binangonan Municipal Hills. If you live near EDSA, your ideal destination is to arrive at Greenhills. Upon reaching the intersecting road, turn left, pass along the Galleria-Ortigas Avenue- Junction until you arrive at Shopwise. From Shopwise, turn right to reach the Lores Supermarket. From there, you need to turn left to find Eastridge Golf Club and finally, the Thunderbird Resorts.

Poro Point, La Union: For those who are living in San Fernando City, go right to reach Soldier Monument. From there, make your way along the Pennsylvania Avenue until you arrive at Poro Point. At Poro point, it is expected you to see the Thunderbird Resorts located near the cliffs and beach club. From Manila, just go straight and pass Bauang National Highway, Gas Station and Oasis Hotel. Once you arrive at Soldier Monument, turn left, travel through the Pennsylvania Avenue until you reach Poro Point. At Poro Point, search for signs going to Thunderbird Resorts located near the cliffs and beach club.

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