Posted by: tripsaytravel | December 10, 2009

The World’s Best Shopping Holidays

With so many famous shopping destinations around the world, it seems hard to resist a shopping vacation. As we are about to reach the day of Christmas, shopping holidays will serve the purpose of both fun and Christmas shopping at the same time, far from the monotonous streets of routine shopping places.

Shopping in New York is especially memorable, as the whole city becomes lively during the festivities, allowing you to return with some unforgettable memories. Shopping vacations are special because the famous European markets start alluring customers with their best offerings around the festive seasons including Christmas and New Year. Some of the favorite shopping destinations across the world are:

Prague: While walking all the way through Prague for shopping, you will see huge glass shops or buildings, with so many stores, chiefly offering lavishly carved crystal bowls, vases, and wooden toys. Mostly, the tourists visit the market in the Old Town, which is famous among the tourists as well as the locals. Art pieces showcase the most contemporary designs combined with traditional Czech workmanship. The foremost shopping area in Prague is centered on Wenceslas Square and Republic Square, where various local stores are competing with high-quality international departmental stores.

Venice : The main shopping area in Venice is the Mercerie, which is a set of narrow streets connecting St. Mark’s Square and Rialto. You will get everything here, from designer clothing to glass products, handbags to shoes, linens to floral attires and art books. Shops in Venice are filled with parade masks and hand-painted fabrics required for designing your own attire. The most renowned designer brands found here includes Versace, Armani and Valentino. Handcrafted frames and comes with a lifetime guarantee. For a true shopping experience and bargain deals, the Campo San Maurizio flea market is the place for you. Variety of foodstuff is also available in Venice shopping areas, offering everything from fresh sea food to locally grown vegetables.

Bangkok, Thailand: Bangkok houses numerous hi-tech shopping malls, departmental stores and lively markets. Traditional woven Thai silk is the most famous product of Bangkok and visitors find this fabric to be a perfect souvenir of the place. The capital still houses some of the finest tailors in Asia to stitch the perfect attire for you. The new Siam Paragon is the largest shopping mall in Southeast Asia for low-priced shopping in Bangkok. Chinatown is an interesting place to visit in Bangkok because it offers never-ending shopping experience, with several large shops, positioned alongside the striking architectural building.

Dubai, UAE : Luxury shopping holiday in Dubai is becoming increasingly popular, especially around the period of Dubai Shopping Festival, which is held in the month of February, every year. Dubai continues to lure shoppers from all over the world to enjoy the extraordinary duty free shopping. All the airports here have duty-free shops. Gold is the most admired consumer items of Dubai, but you can also shop for a huge collection of goods in these duty-free shops including cigarettes, alcohol, leather goods, electronic gadgets, toys, perfumes and cosmetics.

Milan, Italy : It would not be wrong if we say that the world of fashion starts from Italy. Versace and Armani are some of the fashion brands that Italy houses. Even on the streets of Milan, such fashion brands mark their presence. It would be very difficult to find your kind of shopping store, if you go out to shop. If you do not really have time and energy to roam about and find stores for shopping, you can head straight to the Quadrilatero Della Moda, which is the fashion district of Milan. Here, the amazing number of fully stocked shops will take you by surprise.

So, where did you last go for shopping? Do share your views and experiences with www.Tripsay.com

Posted by: tripsaytravel | December 8, 2009

Top cruises of the world

Although airway is considered the most convenient and fastest mode of traveling, voyages through cruises has also become an ideal mode of luxurious travel. There are a number of cruises that the travelers prefer while traveling to any part of the world. Some of the best cruises of the world are discussed below:

Splendor, The Carnival Cruise :

    Amusement is always overriding on Splendor, The Carnival Cruise. The cruise houses all the contemporary amenities with round-the-clock activities to entertain, roster of Vegas-worthy shows and a huge casino to make you feel completely thrilled while on board. The other facilities include swimming pools, spas and restaurants, where relaxation and leisure are the only concentrations. Indeed, with Splendor, it is like having a bachelor party amidst the seas. Thus, there is never a dull moment when boarding on Splendor, The Carnival cruise.

    Best of South America Cruise :

      This cruise liner is perfect for all those who are single and wish to have fun while traveling via sea. Cruising is mainly enjoyed with your partner while watching sunsets, having cocktails and dancing together to the tunes of romance. Fortunately, there is a tailor-made cruise purposely designed for those who do not have a partner. The Best of South America Cruise will make you aptly experience the party capital of Rio in Brazil to stylish Buenos Aires in Argentina. Here, you will enjoy the most passionate part of the world and a number of social events on board, including singles-only tables and cocktail parties to fill you with thrill and enthusiasm.

      Oasis of the Seas, Royal Caribbean :

        Royal Caribbean is a gigantic ship taking you on a voyage around the Caribbean beginning in Fort Lauderdale and ending at Miami. Being the largest ship in the world, the Oasis of the Seas houses all the contemporary amenities, including a zip wire that runs along the top deck to an open-air aqua theater. Because it is a Caribbean cruise, plenty of bikini-clad women roam around to make themselves feel relaxed.

        Oberoi Philae :

          The cruise travels through the river Nile and Cairo. With all the modern amenities, the vessel is fashioned like a 19th-century paddler cruiser, comprising 58 luxurious cabins. Surrounded by the polished teak and decorative iron, you will find a swimming pool, a selection of antique collection bar, a stuffy library, and a well-equipped gym. The trip should not be less than 10 nights if you really want to taste the fun.

          Serenity, Crystal Cruises :

            You are assured a modish time when you are on board. Serenity Cruise is considered one of the best ships in the world. Traveling from Beijing to Hong Kong, the main emphasis of the cruise is on style and fashion. You can enjoy fashion-themed dinners on the board and also tours around shopping malls once you land at port.

            Polar Pioneer, Polar Cruises :

              Polar Pioneer Cruise is for all those who are looking for an adventurous voyage through sea in the icy cold regions. You travel while being encircled by rare species of fishes such as whales in the chilling zero degree weather. Polar Pioneer, Polar Cruise is a 19-day cruise of South Georgia and Antarctica, designed especially for nature lovers rather than for luxury seekers. Through this cruise, one can capture the picturesque beauty of Antarctica region, emphasizing on wildlife encounters and other sites of interest.

              Crystal Symphony, Crystal Cruises

                It is the golf cruise to Asia on board. The Crystal Symphony is perfect for golf lovers. This voyage is set for 11 days and the route includes golf-themed round tables, putting contests and clinics with complete aid. The best part of the cruise is that everyone can enjoy the swimming pools, spa facilities, multi-cuisine restaurants along with a glittering casino for entertainment.

                If you have information or experience of traveling on any of the world cruises, then you can share it with the other like minded travelers at Tripsay.com. Take advantage of the ratings that the travelers give to various travel destinations across the world, only at Tripsay.com.

                Posted by: tripsaytravel | December 1, 2009

                Celebrate Love in India!

                Today, India has become one of the most admired honeymoon destinations of the world. The captivating terrain in India, from hills to beaches, and from forts to gardens, has attracted couples to nurture the emotion of love. The country offers various isolated, exotic and passionate honeymoon destinations. Some of these honeymoon destinations in India have been described below:

                Andaman and Nicobar Islands

                Take the sea route to witness the sparkling emerald islands of Andaman and Nicobar. There are a lot of romantic spots in Andaman and Nicobar including the three most romantic spots which are Mount Harriet, Viper Island and Ross Island. As only 7% of the island is inhabited by residents, it will give you a private atmosphere with your spouse. You can enjoy water sports in some selected places as well.

                Shimla

                Shimla is one of the most renowned hill stations in India, which attracts honeymooners from all over the world. The best feature of Shimla is its pleasant climate that is very favorable to for a romantic getaway. The most sought after spots to visit include Annandale, Chadwick Falls, Gurkha Castles, Tattapani, Viceregal Lodge, Chander Naun and also Himalayan Aviary. There are few old temples and churches where you can get blessings for the new beginning of your life. Take a romantic stroll along the famous Mall road and the falcate mountain ridge sight. Accommodation and hospitality is not a problem in Shimla as you can find a number of hotels and resorts that suits the taste of both budget and luxury travelers. If your mood takes you, you can enjoy various other activities such as trekking.

                Goa

                Goa is the land of sun, sand and sea. It is a perfect destination for those couples who prefer fun and frolic together with romance. The best part of a Goa holiday is the care-free atmosphere, which in itself becomes an intoxicating factor. The outstanding activities that Goa offers include water sports on the beach, cruise rides and casinos, beach parties, gourmet choices in food and drinks. The choice is entirely yours, as to where you would like to spend time and enjoy. You can choose from secluded beaches, crowded beaches, beach resorts and shacks. Follow your heart and pamper your better half in Goa.

                Lakshadweep Islands

                The islands are offers you isolated and natural settings for making the right beginning of your married life. This place is full of vivacity and offers you a chance to enjoy amidst the blue waters, the golden and white sandy beaches, the coconut groves and the splendid starry nights with clear sky. This dreamy atmosphere lets your souls indulge in the serene beauty of nature and find the true taste of romance in a getaway.

                Darjeeling

                Darjeeling offers olive scenic hills and sparkling waterfalls to the young and romantic couples for a lifetime experience. Going on foot in the slapdash tea estates and terraced farms could is the most memorable things to do when in Darjeeling. Do visit the monasteries and temples to seek the divine blessings for a new life together. Other things to enjoy include rivers, cable car rides, gardens and authentic local food with Tibetan taste in it.

                Srinagar

                The true paradise on earth welcomes the newlywed couples to witness everything, that they least expected. It seems as if the snow peaks are gazing at you from far. Scenery here is simply spellbinding. The Dal Lake is the major attraction with house boats and Shikara boats in the lake, which are a symbol of romance. When you are in Srinagar enjoying the bounty of nature, then you would definitely like to buy some of the world famous Kashmiri handicrafts for your loved ones.

                Kerala

                Kerala is known as God’s own abode. It is true if you consider nature and greenery to be his heavenly presence. The beaches of Kovalam, houseboats on Kumarakom lagoons and the hill stations of Munnar are the finest attractions of Kerala. Each place has its own distinctive attraction, where the honeymoon couples find the retreat they wished for.

                India welcomes you with its whole-hearted warmth and bounty of nature. If you have been to India for a honeymoon, then share your experiences and rate the honeymoon destinations on Tripsay.com. Get personalized travel recommendations from the travelers who have been to India, on Tripsay.com.

                Posted by: tripsaytravel | December 1, 2009

                Spiritual Tour to Bali

                Exploring Bali is like exploring a new land, where spirituality is found to be the most prominent aspect of life. No other spiritual region on Earth is so welcoming. According to Bali’s ancient culture, it is believed that gods come to live on earth personified in the form of human beings. A spiritual tour to Bali should also encompass spa rejuvenation, healings, yoga and meditation centres, which are scattered all over the land of Bali. The constant energy flow and divine ambience are developed intentionally here, because the Balinese populace gives much consideration and respect to the natural world, plants, and living things.

                The Island of 10,000 Temples

                The island is also famous for the co-existence of its natural and manmade structures, marked by clear beaches with various private resorts. Bali has a got a prosperous heritage of remarkable temples dotted throughout the island. This is the reason why Bali is majorly known as ‘The Island of 10,000 Temples’. Several ceremonies take place every day in these temples which includes offering food to god, singing holy praises for god and other such activities. Thus, the temples here reflect spirituality running deep in all facets of life. For a truly spiritual experience, do not miss to visit these temple ceremonies.

                Spiritual Activities

                This spiritual retreat is designed to offer various spiritual activities, such as yoga asans, pranayama, meditation, holistic healing, cleansing chakra and aura, spa massage, reading the past life, ancient ritual ceremony, as well as personalized ancient tantra vedic purification. This blend enables us to feel an absolute spiritual stimulation within our soul as well as our mind. The vibration of the strong energy in the island has made it the unsurpassed spiritual tourist destination of the world. Currently, the tourist category of Bali is dominated by divinity seekers, healers and those who look for a spiritual balance in life.

                Attractions

                In Bali, the most famous places are Ubud and Nusa Dua. Ubud, where one can shop and visit various galleries, watch spiritual dance performances and explore the monkey forest. Nusa Dua is abode to numerous five star resorts. The hotels and resorts are geared more towards those who are seeking luxury in Nusa Dua. For budget conscious travelers Ubud is the finest choice. Many of the resorts offer their own private beaches to stay for offering a high level of privacy.

                Other attractions include:

                • The Tanah Lot Temple is one of the most fine-looking temples in the world, located high on a cliff over the deep ocean.
                • The Besakih Temple is always referred as the ‘Mother of all Temples in Bali encompassing five temples.
                • The Barong Dance portrays how chaos and destruction struggle with one another.
                • The Botanical Gardens and terraced rice paddies are the places where you can find yourself fascinated with the bounty of nature and greenery.
                • Ngaben is one of the visitor attractions famous for the burning of a dead body.

                Besides being known for its spiritual tours, Bali has other interesting aspects that attract visitors. The kindhearted people of Bali attract travelers to Bali with their colorful culture. Bali also hosts numerous sports activities and an assortment of delicious Bali cuisines.

                Therefore, if you are looking for a trip abroad, and would rather like to make it a spiritual experience, Bali is the destination for you. Get personalized travel tips from the similar travelers who have been to Bali. Share their experiences and observe the ratings they give to the various tourist destinations. If you have been to Bali, then share Bali travel tips with those planning to go to Bali. All this and more, on Tripsay.com.

                Posted by: tripsaytravel | December 1, 2009

                Greece – A Historic Heritage & A Refreshing Natural Environment

                The offerings, which Greece has to offer its tourists, comprise diverse landscapes and great man-made structures as well. It has both sea and mountains. It has archaeological sites as well as night clubs. It has crowded vicinities together with calm and quite places to relax. The best of all, these attractions make Greece a true paradise to discover.

                The country experiences a Mediterranean type of climate. You can check out the lively city of Athens, the laid back Greek villages, some sparkling islands (about 1,400 in numbers) and a spectacular coastline scattered with virgin beaches. Further, luscious local cuisines and several brilliant historical spots make it an attractive holiday destination.

                If you are on a vacation to Greece, make sure that you take few words of advice from the travelers who have been to this country:

                • The best possible way to explore the untouched attractions of Greece is by car. In Greece, you drive on the right hand side of the road. However, if you wish to visit the Greek islands, you would have to take a ferry that can even carry your car to the island. From Piraeus, one can hire a ferry to diverse Greek Islands including Crete, Mykonos, Santorin, Rhodes and Paros. Piraeus is about 11 km southwest of central Athens, said to be the biggest port in Europe and the 3rd largest in the world.
                • A visit to the Cyclades Island is recommended for a soothing experience, which is accessible through ferry and small boats. It is best to travel to such Greek islands in off-season, when bookings and reservations are not required. In the off-season, one can avail attentive services and reduced tariffs. The finest time to visit Greece is the month of September (off-season). The weather at this time is pleasing because the Aegean winds go away.
                • Do not forget to witness the stunning views of sunrise from the Aegean seaside as it illuminates the Greek islands beautifully. Rise from bed a bit early to witness this view, and later in the evening, observe it as it beautifully goes down behind the hills. Although, sunset appears glorious from everyplace in Greece, but the best view is when you catch the glimpse of sunset on the seaside as the sea color changes over from rich blue to vibrant red.
                • The travelers who have been to Greece recommend travelling through the local public transport. It is a much better mode of transport because public transport is inexpensive and convenient in Greece. This is the finest way of visiting the local places with and an assurance of not being lost due to suitable assistance from the locals and from the route maps.
                • If you are looking for a luxurious accommodation in Greece, then you may be a bit disappointed with the number of choices at your disposal. Most of the Greek accommodations are usually equipped with the basic necessities only. However, hotels that have been built recently have started offering more luxurious features, if you are ready to pay extra.
                • It is always recommended to get familiar with some common phrases of Greek language. For instance:

                Kalimera (good morning), Kalispera (Good evening), Kalinichta (good night), Efharisto (Thank you), Parakalo (Please)

                To explore the best aspects of Greece tourism, get off from the standard Greece tourist tours, and discover the place in your own unique way. If you are not sure about from where to start, log on to Tripsay.com, where travelers rate their visited places and share their unique experiences with those who wish to travel to that place.

                Posted by: tripsaytravel | November 26, 2009

                Germany – An Awe-inspiring Place

                Germany, with the population of 82,057,000, is tourists’ favorite and enjoyable holiday spot in Europe. Famous for its forests, mountains, lakes and other natural assets, Germany has been tourists’ preferred holiday spot. Geographically speaking, Germany forms a bridge between maritime West of Europe and the continent East, between the warmer South and the cool North. Hamburg, which is Germany’s number one ocean gateway to the world, is the international port of the nation where you can find chic shops, splendid hotels and great museums.

                Berlin, which is the capital city of the nation, is one of the mega cities of the world and most sought after tourist places in Germany. Berlin is the truest blend of pleasures to the tourists because of its wonderful history, night life, architecture and culture.

                In the south part of Germany, we can find the breath-taking beauty of the Black Forest along with tempting delights of Alps. There is the city of Heidelberg, where the tourists can find Germany’s most famous castles remnants. Freiburg, the capital of southern Black Forest, is known for its beautiful cathedral, an unforgettable example of late gothic architecture.

                Munich is one of German’s most awesome and eye-catching cities which are renowned for being the home of world-famous Oktoberfest and Deutsches Museums, the largest science and industry museums in Europe. Triberg, Lindau, Dinkelsuhl, and the historical city of Wurzbrug are some other cities in the south part of Germany, which are worth visiting.

                Frankfurt - One can find Europe’s center of international business and financial hub city. The city is full of skyscrapers that rise up from the Rhine-Main basis and alongside a restored Altstadt. Frankfurt has a rich collection of museums, second only to Berlin. In nightlife too, it is the capital’s only serious rival, especially when it comes to the dance-music scene, centered on the ever-popular techno beat.


                East and West - In the eastern part of Germany, you can find extraordinary cities for tourism: Leipzig, Weimar, Schwerin and even Dresden. In the western part of Germany, cities are still influenced by French customs.

                Germany is naturally gifted with its abundant natural assets. Some valleys in Germany, which have been called the Romantic Wine Valleys, have reasonably added feathers to its cap.

                The Rhine Valley is worth talking about first. Thanks to its breath-taking natural beauty, the Rhine Valley is an immensely sought after destination for the world tourists in Germany. Castles, cathedrals, woods and vineyards, hiking trails and a romantic bed, all significantly enhance the beauty of this place. Lorelei, the fascinating Rhine temptress, is probably known as the most famous figure of German folklore.

                Mosel Valley is the next worth visiting place in Germany. The place is also known as vine growing region in Germany. The place does not attract visitors for its magnificent beauty but also for the friendly atmosphere created by wine and song. Apart from that, other valleys which are worth-visiting for the tourists include The Ahr Valley, the Weser valley, the Neckar valley and the Altmuhl valley.

                Although Germany remains tourist-friendly destination throughout the year, its unpredictable climate may be a daunting factor for the tourists to visit the place. As far as preferences are concerned, most people prefer to visit the place between May and September. In these months the weather is sunny, which makes the journey a comfortable experience. The other seasons are from March to May and from October to early November. Downfall in the number of tourists in these months is seen here due to the freezing temperatures. Well, you can make your travel an enjoyably chilling experience if you wish to visit the skiing areas in the Bavarian Alps.

                Germany is a great place to explore, but you need to go through a number of tips and personalized recommendations from those travelers who have been to Germany. You can share their experiences and ratings for the different destinations across the world. Log on to www.tripsay.com.

                Posted by: tripsaytravel | November 26, 2009

                New York City


                New York is the most romantic city in America attracting tourists from across the globe. Anything that your heart can yearn for or your mind can picture; can surely be founded in New York City. Not only for the couples, New York is a perfect place for families as well. You can go for a family trip or a romantic getaway. Situated by the side of scenic Hudson River, New York is a unique destination to spend a holiday with a lifetime experience. Here is some information about the tourist attractions in the New York City:

                The Statue of Liberty :

                The Statue of Liberty was visualized and designed as a monument to showcase the great friendship between the United States of America and France. The significance of this statue has widened because today, people throughout the world have started recognizing it as a symbol of liberty. To witness this fine and magnificent work of art, one needs to hire a ferry, which is the only way to visit the Liberty Island.

                Niagara Falls :

                The famous Niagara Falls is of the most admired attractions of America, welcoming millions of visitors every year. Refresh yourself with the water noise amidst the brilliant sight and settings of Niagara Falls. There are numerous ways of visiting the falls including boats, towers, cable cars, helicopters and also the tunnels in the cliff. Niagara Falls has been urbanized to encourage tourism that offers an affluence of amusement and pleasure throughout the time. At nights, the falls are highlighted with colorful lighting, which makes the view, all the more magnificent for the tourists.

                The Empire State Building :

                One of the most talked about landmarks of New York City – The Empire State Building was designed as a lightning rod for the City. It used to be the tallest skyscraper in the world with a height measuring 1,453 feet. Although, today, it is the tenth highest building in the world, but if your plan doesn’t include visiting the Empire State Building, you are missing a lot of fun. In the nights, it is illuminated with bright and colorful lights, which makes it look like a giant inland lighthouse.

                Central Park :

                Central Park has been deliberately positioned at the heart of the New York City. It boosts the beauty of the city making it look more attractive. Central Park offers pristine beauty of greenery and scattered water bodies here and there, along with concrete jungle of the tall structures. The visitors can relax in the evening; take a boat ride or simply enjoy a picnic or stroll along the lowlands of Central Park. Throughout the summers, Central Park hosts various musical concerts and events that are truly mesmerizing and leave you delighted.

                American Museum of Natural History:

                The American Museum of Natural History was established in 1869 that offers a number of unusual assortments pertaining to the natural olden times. People from across the globe frequently visit the museum because of the rotating displays with great historical importance. The best place for history lovers in New York, as it always has amazing and exceptional things at display.

                Times Square :

                Times Square is the most active square of New York City, well-known for its several Broadway theatres and super signs. It is said to be one of those places that does not allow people in New York City to sleep.

                The course of indulgence does not need to end here. Luxury shopping at Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenue will take to you to another world. The events, such as, the Halloween Parade, the Tribeca Film Festival and free performances in Central Park at the summer stage are worth attending. Many of the city’s cultural enclaves, such as Jackson Heights, Flushing, and Brighton Beach are the major shopping destinations for the tourists.

                It is really very hard to decide which of New York City’s extraordinary landmarks, museums, and other attractions to skip during the trip because all the attractions are extremely magnificent. However, you need to prioritize your trip to New York. Why not take help from those who have been to New York. Know about some of the tourists favorite spots in New York City. Share their experiences and destination ratings at Tripsay.com.

                Posted by: tripsaytravel | November 24, 2009

                Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Europe with Fun and Frolic

                At times the New Year’s Eve can end up in a mess, making you feel bored. Therefore, you can consider going abroad for a stimulating experience, far away from monotony. Every country has their own way of celebrating a festival or occasion. The same is for New Year Eve. Though it is celebrated in every part of the world on the very same day, but the way of welcoming New Year is different in every country. For instance, eating grapes at midnight is the custom of Spain in Italy for celebrating New Year.

                The most delighting New Year’s Eve parties are held in the European countries with great fun and frolic, magnificent fireworks, foot taping music, cruises and fares along with finest delights of food. So let’s explore some countries to check out the best place to celebrate New Year this December.

                New Year’s Celebration in Italy :

                This evening is celebrated in a very customary manner all over the place, followed by a unique traditional dinner arrangement. Enlivening fireworks, loud music and lots and lots of dancing can be enjoyed here. To conclude the description, we can say that people celebrate it with Italian sparkling wine. The Fat Ox Fair is showcased in Bologna, Italy on New Year’s Eve in the month of December. The two cities namely, Rome and Naples are superb places to celebrate New Year in Italy.

                New Year’s Celebration in France :

                France has its own way of celebrating New Year’s Eve. You can take pleasure in a romantic cruise on the 31st December evening in France; or a torchlight procession, to pick grapes at midnight making it more exhilarating; or an illuminated city excursion of Avignon to amuse yourself between the colorful and bright adornment of the city on that very day.

                New Year’s Celebration in London :

                The main emphasis of London is the massive fireworks on display to welcome New Year. Several clubs in London organize different theme parties for New Year’s Eve and the restaurant invites people for fine dining. One can also opt for a cruise on the River Thames or attend the biggest ball dance in Europe, which is called the Torture Garden New Year’s Eve Ball.

                New Year Celebration in Scotland :

                Interesting celebrations take place in Scotland to celebrate New Year’s Eve. Here, the celebrations begin early so as to enjoy four days festival, including parades, fireworks, street theatres and concerts. It is concluded with a massive street party on the 31st December night. The street party is attended by people from all across the world. As the clock strikes 12 at midnight, a cannon is fired in Edinburgh Castle, to welcome and announce the beginning of the New Year.

                New Year’s Celebration in Amsterdam :

                If you are a party person, then Amsterdam is the right destination for you to celebrate New Year. The streets and squares get filled with groups of people to enjoy the evening. Almost all the bars and clubs at Holland host lively parties with lots of enthusiasm. This place is not meant for those who do not like crowds on New Year’s Eve.

                New Year’s Celebration in Iceland :

                New Year’s Eve begins in a very serene manner, followed first with prayer in the church, a bonfire and the dinner. Later, as the midnight ushers the New Year, the place and its inhabitants began to party until they drop by 5 am in the morning.

                New Year’s Celebration in Stockholm, Sweden :

                To actually enjoy a real wintery experience with your partner, head to the Ice Bar known as the Absolut Ice bar in Stockholm. It is a very unusual way of celebrating New Year’s Eve. Admission in the bar includes warm clothing for you so need not worry for clothes. Only a group of 30 people can enter the Ice bar at one time thus, reserve a seat for yourself before you visit.

                New Year Celebration in Berlin, Germany :

                Berlin hosts one of the biggest New Year’s Eve celebrations in Europe and in the world too. Thus, it attracts more than a million of populace in Germany. The feast and party is centered on the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. The celebrations here include stage shows, party exhibition areas and tents, foodstuff and drink stands, laser light performances and the fabulous midnight fireworks to conclude the event. The main attraction of Germany is the performances by international pop stars and several DJs.

                If you also have experienced a unique New Year celebration in any part of the world, then share your experience with others on www.Tripsay.com.

                Posted by: tripsaytravel | November 17, 2009

                Castles of Scotland

                Scotland is known for a romantic and tranquil terrain, where antique castles nestle amidst grandiose peaks, where superlative legacy come alive with an affluent culture and history. With its magnificent castles and colorful festivals, Scotland celebrates its customary and fashionable culture. Tourists can enjoy a leisurely walk in the calm country where trekking long routes will refresh your senses.
                Each and every castle will leave you with a captivating experience because each castle has a distinctive nature of its own. These castles are remarkably preserved, whether it is in a habitable state or in ruins. All the castles in Scotland are worth a visit because of their historical connotations, settings and remarkable architectural style. The Castles taking you in the fairy tales also offer mysterious passageways, unusual adornment and breathtakingly spectacular views. Castles are usually gives a free access; these are open for the tourists through permission of the castle trust or preservation society. Some of the most popular castles are:

                  The Castle of Mey :- In the north of Scotland is situated The Castle of Mey. The Castle has beautiful gardens growing vegetables, flowers and fruit, which are embellished with decorative features. The castle also has a lovely tourist centre where one can buy various gifts and souvenirs. Then, continue your visit by rewinding in the in-house restaurant and having the best aromatic coffee beans flavor in the coffee shop. During the times of spring and summer, entrance to the Castle is open for the visitors as the castle is not used for royal residence during this period.
                  The Edinburgh Castle :- Edinburgh Castle is one of the main tourist attractions because tourists can always witness the history of Scotland here. Further, one can look for several other areas including The Stone of Destiny & The Crown Jewels. One can freely take a stroll in and around the castle. While having a cup of coffee in the cafeteria, one can enjoy the picturesque view of the castle through huge glass windows; alongside the famous black canons on the walkway.
                  After visiting the Castle, move down to visit Holyrood Palace, which is known as The Royal Mile. The place houses classic Scottish souvenirs for you to carry back home including craft items, jewelry, woolen, and cashmere product shops. This place covers numerous exquisite cafes and bistros for the convenience of the tourists.
                  The Caerlaverock Castle :- The untouched countryside, surrounding the castle, gives a glimpse of the medieval times of Scotland to the tourists visiting this castle. The indoor remains, of this very stylish court of residents, look stunning. The castle was built by the Earl of Nithsdale, which is a very fine illustration of the typical architectural style introduced during the period of renaissance.
                  The Balmoral Castle :- This castle is positioned amid the glorious scenery of Royal Deeside. The castle was bought by Queen Victoria in the year 1848, since that time the Estate has been the Scottish abode for the British Royal Family. The Ballroom is adorned with several paintings placed on the walls, porcelain and silver art pieces are also displayed. The Estate widens to 50,000 acres of heather clad hills, prehistoric Caledonian forest, and the dazzling River Dee flowing adjacent to it. The Royal Family has conserved the wildlife, landscape and structural design of the castle.
                  St. Andrew’s Castle :- St. Andrew’s Castle is more than 700 years old. The game of golf was built here for making it look splendid. The countryside and its landscape make it look marvelous. This oldest and the most famous castle leaves the visitors speechless with its grandeur.

                Magnificent castles together with other remarkable attractions and activities in Scotland extend enough reasons to tourists to explore it!

                Posted by: tripsaytravel | November 17, 2009

                Getting Familiar with Venice before visiting it!

                The city of Venice in Italy is purely dazzling and absolutely matchless. The city of Venice is connected by a series of over 150 canals, 400 bridges and many other ancient structures. The buildings in Venice are supported on lean oak and pine posts that are grooved deep into the ground to create a rock-solid base. The soil here is drenched giving no oxygen beneath; thus, making the piles remain strong and avoiding decay. Venice is one of the most romantic and beautiful cities in the world. The city of Venice has always been the foremost option for the tourists across the globe. If you are planning to visit Venice, then here are some tips for you:

                If you want to discover the city on your own, then you might get lost without having proper information of its streets. The best thing is to carry a detailed map of Venice streets and places. The city has Yellow signboards that will point in the direction of the main landmarks like S.MARCO for St. Mark’s Square; RIALTO for the Rialto Bridge; ACCADEMIA for the Academia Galleries, etc. For getting transportation, the signs will read FERROVIA which stands for the railway station and P.LE ROMA is for the car terminal. The locals will surely guide you.

                To know about the street names, white signs with black writings are usually called “nizioletti” meaning small sheets by the local people of Venice. These boards are painted on the house walls on height of the ground floor ceiling. Venetian language is functional to local names; thus, one might stumble upon some discrepancy in spellings in between the street names and guide books.

                The main means of transport in Venice is Gondolas. The city is situated on water thus making it more magnificent and strange for the tourists. The Gondola rides are the most famous for a romantic trip all over the world. The tariff of gondolas increases at night. Gondoliers do not sing. If you want a serenade to be played for you, then there is an extra charge and booking in advance is mandatory. On the side of Grand Canal, you can find numerous gondola-ferry stations to get across the Canal.

                Venice has a superb public transportation arrangement. The non-resident fares in Venice are high. If you plan to use public transportation often, then you should get the Venice Card. This card comes in two colors – Blue and Orange. Each of these cards is available for one, three, or seven days.

                Venice Card Blue offers limitless transportation on water buses and auto buses. If you are between the ages of fourteen to twenty nine, you can freely use public toilets. One can also receive discounts in various places with this card.

                Venice Card Orange is much more expensive, that includes all the services of blue card along with admission to the Doge’s Palace and other City museums of Venice.


                If you are planning to visit the Churches of Venice, then there is a dress code for all. As churches are places of worship, so dresses like swim suits, shorts and sleeveless costumes are not allowed. Bermudas or skirts to the knee length are appropriate and covering your shoulders is a must.

                Clicking pictures, in any circumstance, is prohibited. May it be with or without flash videos are not allowed inside the museums or Churches, because all works of art are copyrighted to the City of Venice.

                The shopping timings are usually from 9:30 am to 8:00 pm. The grocery stores are closed from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm daily. So try to shop accordingly.

                Tourists from Non-European countries can claim a tax refund on purchase that exceeds more than 150 euros from a shop. All the Shopkeepers do have the tax-refund forms. The form is to be stamped by the airport custom office. You can also get cash refund in Venice from the suitable office, but you still need to stamp it and mail the form from the airport along with a credit card guarantee.

                  All the major Credit Cards including Visa, MasterCard and American Express are widely accepted in shops, hotels, restaurants.

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