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Hsyndicate- Industry News - First Drop of Hotel Prices in 2010

2010-06-11T03:30:00.001-07:00

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European Hotel Prices Increase Sharply | trivago Hotel Price Index shows

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European Hotel rates are back on the rise | trivago reports

First Drop of Hotel Prices in 2010

Thursday, 10 June 2010

Hotel prices in Europe have dropped for the first time since the beginning of the year. This seems to mark the beginning of a price stabilisation, following an uninterrupted five month rise in prices since January 2010. In the UK, similar price reductions are to be found, with key cities like London and Birmingham falling 12% and 19%. These are the findings of the trivago Hotel Price Index (tHPI), which is published monthly by the hotel price comparison site www.trivago.co.uk.

London, 10 June 2010. In June, the price of an overnight stay in a standard double room in Europe fell to 97 pounds. This represents a drop of six percent in comparison to last month’s average of 103 pounds, and arrives just in time for the beginning of the summer travel season. In 38 of the 50 cities listed in the tHPI for June, prices fell or remained steady, suggesting that hotel prices are beginning to stabilise after a prolonged trend of rising prices in 2010.

European hotel prices drop six percent
For the first time since January 2010, average hotel prices in Europe’s biggest metropolitan cities have declined. 38 of the 50 cities listed in the tHPI registered stable or falling prices – after five months of back-to-back increases in overnight prices, it would seem that a peak has been reached, and hotel summer prices may be close to finding stability. Many popular summer destinations saw important declines in comparison to last month: Barcelona’s prices fell 24% to 117 pounds; Turin fell 29% (84 pounds, down from 118 pounds in May); and Seville’s prices sank 16% to 77 pounds. The Italian cities of Milan (93 pounds) and Bologna (69 pounds) are currently offering their best room rates to date for the year 2010, as are Brussels (80 pounds) and most of the German cities (Munich, Cologne, Frankfurt and Dusseldorf).

Stable or dropping prices in the UK
The majority of British cities registered stable or falling hotel prices this month, in line with the decreasing accommodation costs elsewhere in Europe. Average overnight costs in London fell 12% to 129 pounds. The capital had experienced significant price hikes since the beginning of the year, but the change has brought London back to its typical yearly average, which over the past two years has generally ranged between 120 and 130 pounds a night. Prices in other cities also experienced important price drops: Manchester fell 12%, while Liverpool dropped 14% and Birmingham’s hotel prices fell 19%. Other cities were more stable, with price changes ranging from -3% to 3%. Edinburgh increased one percent to 121 pounds, Blackpool rose two percent to 68 pounds, and Sheffield rose three percent to 69 pounds. Conversely, Newcastle and Bristol both fell 3 percent, to 88 pounds and 82 pounds respectively.

For an overview of the average hotel prices in Europe, as well as graphics and data charts for the past few months, please visit www.trivago.co.uk/hotelprices

The www.trivago.co.uk hotel price index shows the average overnight accommodation prices for the most popular European cities on trivago. Prices for a standard double room are calculated on the basis of 160,000 daily price inquiries for overnight hotel stays generated through the trivago hotel price comparison service. trivago stores all hotel enquiries for each month and therefore gives an overview of hotel accommodation prices for the upcoming month. The tHPI reflects the hotel prices within the European online hotel market: The overnight accommodation prices of 53 online travel agents and hotel chains create the average hotel prices for cities, regions and countries within Europe.

About trivago
Travellers find the ideal hotel for the best rate on trivago. The online service compares the hotel rates of 53 booking sites for 400,000 hotels worldwide. In addition, trivago has integrated over 15 million hotel reviews and shows the overall rating for each hotel. trivago does not just compare the prices of online hotel booking sites, but also the rates. Users can see whether breakfast is included, if any cancellation fees apply, and whether payment by credit card is available. trivago has the first “Freestyle” metasearch engine: travellers are able to search by holiday region, city or hotel name. With its headquarters in Dusseldorf, Germany, trivago was founded in 2005 and currently operates 21 international country platforms.

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2010-04-27T13:14:00.001-07:00

hotels, trivago

Hotel Prices Rise Even Higher Due To Ash Cloud
In General on April 25, 2010 at 9:34 am

London, 22 April 2010. While airplanes remained grounded for the past week as a result of the unexpected eruption of Mt. Eyjafjallajokul in Iceland, hotel prices reached a new peak. Hotel price comparison site www.trivago.co.uk investigated the change in overnight accommodation prices by examining the prices during the week of April 15 to 22, when the flight embargo was in force, and comparing these results with the findings of the trivago Hotel Price Index for April. The conclusions are undeniable – significant price hikes in Europe’s major cities during the flight interdiction. In Milan, which also hosted the Football Championship League Semi-Finals on April 20, average room prices soared to 200 pounds – a 91 percent increase over the previously reported April average of 105 pounds. An overnight stay in London during the airline grounding averaged out to 205 pounds a night; compared to April’s expected average of 138 pounds, this represents a climb of 49 percent.
Other European cities were also affected by this sudden change. Stranded travelers in Berlin faced surcharges of 63 percent, seeing prices rise from 84 pounds at the beginning of the month to 137 pounds. In Amsterdam, the cost of a standard double room rose 26 percent from 133 pounds in early April to 167 pounds this week. Hoteliers in Madrid raised prices 46 percent as a result of the travel crisis, while their counterparts in Barcelona increased room costs by 13 percent from 127 pounds to 143 pounds. Those travelling or trapped in Paris were also forced to dig deep into their pockets – room prices rose by 27 percent, from 138 pounds at the beginning of the month to 175 pounds.
The prices and analysis are based on www.trivago.co.uk’s hotel price index. The results of the April tHPI were used in comparison with prices taken during the period of April 15 to 22, when the air travel was banned. The tHPI shows the average overnight accommodation prices for the most popular European cities on trivago. Prices for a standard double room are calculated on the basis of 160,000 daily price inquiries for overnight hotel stays generated through the trivago hotel price comparison service. trivago stores all hotel enquiries for each month and therefore gives an overview of hotel accommodation prices for the upcoming month. The tHPI reflects the hotel prices within the European online hotel market: The overnight accommodation prices of 53 online travel agents and hotel chains create the average hotel prices for cities, regions and countries within Europe.

1. A graphic of the price change in key European cities as a result of the air embargo:
http://imgpe.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/volcano_prices.pdf
2. An overview of the average overnight accommodation prices in April 2010, prior to the volcano’s eruption, for the top 50 European cities listed in the tHPI can be found here:
http://imgpe.trivago.com/contentimages/press/texts/thpi_0410_chart.pdf

About trivago:
Travellers find the ideal hotel for the best rate on trivago. The online service compares the hotel rates of 53 booking sites for 400,000 hotels worldwide. In addition, trivago has integrated over 15 million hotel reviews and shows the overall rating for each hotel. trivago does not just compare the prices of online hotel booking sites, but also the rates. Users can see whether breakfast is included, if any cancellation fees apply, and whether payment by credit card is available. trivago has the first “Freestyle” metasearch engine: travellers are able to search by holiday region, city or hotel name. With its headquarters in Dusseldorf, Germany, trivago was founded in 2005 and currently operates 21 international country platforms.

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Pre-Hispanic City of Teotihuacan « Navigationz

2010-04-10T15:26:00.001-07:00

Top 10 Historic Hotels « Navigationz

2010-03-31T04:03:00.001-07:00

The hotel price comparison www.trivago.co.uk has put together a list of ten historic international hotels and the famous individuals they have received.

London, March 22, 2010 – What makes a holiday special or a hotel stay unique? Trying out new cuisines and enjoying a break from the daily routine is part of it, but something more is required to transform a normal holiday into a truly unforgettable experience. Culture and history are the missing elements – they breathe life into a trip and stir the appetite for further knowledge. For this reason, www.trivago.co.uk has identified ten of the best rated historic hotels in Europe and the United States. From Washington and London to Krakow and Seville, these hotels will pamper their guests with first class service and a historical charm. Here is the list of historic hotels in Europe and the United States, ranked according to ratings given by travelers.

1. Palace Beau Rivage, Lausanne, Switzerland
Situated on the Quai d’Ouchy waterfront in Lausanne, the five-star hotel Palace Beau Rivage commands a spectacular view of the beautiful Lake Geneva and snow-capped mountains of the Swiss Alps. Since its founding in 1861, the Palace’s original architectural style and décor have been rigorously preserved, and the hotel stands as a symbol of Europe’s aristocratic past. Many defining moments in world history occurred within its walls, such as the coronation of King Hussein of Jordan and the ratification of treaties on the reconstruction of Post-WWI Europe. World leaders and celebrities routinely stay at the Palace, and notable figures from history include Nelson Mandela, Charlie Chaplin and Victor Hugo. Top dining options, a wine cellar stocked with over 75,000 bottles, 168 luxurious rooms and walking distance to Lausanne’s lively downtown area combine to make a stay at the Palace Beau Rivage a truly memorable experience. Available starting from £254 for a standard double room through Hotel.Info

2. Hotel Copernicus, Krakow, Poland
Taking its name from frequent guest and world-renowned Polish astronomer Nicolas Copernicus, the Hotel Copernicus in Krakow is a living, breathing embodiment of medieval Europe. Formerly a meeting point for intellectuals and academics, the building was restored and reopened in 2000, and now offers guests a chance to stay in luxurious rooms styled after the high ceilings and dark wood furnishings of the Renaissance period. Hotel Copernicus is located on Kanonicza, the oldest street in the city, and is close to numerous cultural and historical sites such as the Royal Palace, various Gothic churches and cathedrals, and the historic Jewish quarter of Kazimierz. Available starting from £137 for a standard double room through Booking.com

3. Las Casas De La Juderia, Seville, Spain
Located in the old quarter of Seville in Andalusia, Spain, Las Casas De La Juderia perfectly captures the beauty and spirit of the Andalusian heritage by blending together European and Arabic elements and designs. Open courtyards, graceful fountains and sweeping arches complement each other greatly and create an inspiring atmosphere. The name literally means ‘the houses of the Jewish quarter’, and refers to the historical period when Ferdinand III of Castile reclaimed the city from the Muslim Caliphates and concentrated the Jewish population into one district, or Juderia. Las Casas De La Juderia also was used to house the first native Americans brought back by Christopher Columbus after his first travels to the ‘New World’. Other notable attractions include the Cathedral and the Royal Alcazar Palace. Available starting from £84 for a standard double room through Otel.com

4. The Willard, Washington, USA
The Willard on Pennsylvania Avenue represents the pinnacle of American comfort and style, and this can clearly be seen from the hotel’s grandiose rooms, lavish spa- and healthtreatments, and sumptuous dining opportunities. Founded in 1818, the Willard has often been described as the center of Washington’s political and social life – a reputation that is likely enhanced by the imposing presence of the White House, only a few streets away, and by the fact that Martin Luther King wrote his landmark ‘I have a dream’ speech while staying at the Willard. The surrounding area is also rich in scenic attractions, including the Smithsonian Museum, National Theatre, National Mall and numerous galleries and performing arts venues. Available starting from £217 for a standard double room through Intercontinental Hotels Group

5. Reid’s Palace, Funchal, Portugal
Located on a cliff overlooking the south coast of Funchal and first opened in 1891, Reid’s Palace was the crowning achievement of Scotsman William Reed, an impoverished cabin boy who landed on the island of Madeira at age 14 and eventually made his fortune in the wine trade. Although he did not live to see the hotel’s completion, Reid’s Palace quickly became a major attraction, in large part due to the small flotilla of boats and vendors that greeted each new guest upon arrival. Distinguished guests included playwright George Bernard Shaw, Prime Minister Lloyd George, and the ‘travelling Empress’, Elizabeth of Austria, known for her extensive travels after the suicide of her only son Rudolf. Today, the feeling of nobility remains, and chief among the hotel’s attractions are the semi-tropical gardens that are unique to Reid’s Palace. Kept in full bloom throughout the year, the flowers and plants originate from all over the world, and are a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Available starting from £215 for a standard double room through Hotel.info

6. Steigenberger Grandhotel Petersberg, Bonn, Germany
From its high vantage point atop the Petersberg mountain in the Siebengebirge ranges, the Steigenberger Grandhotel looks down on Königswinter and the River Rhine as it flows through North Rhine-Westphalia. Majestic and remote, the Grandhotel was founded in 1892, and has been the hotel of choice for many visiting heads of state, including Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia, King Rama IX of Thailand and Emperor Akihito of Japan. The hotel also served as the seat of the Allied High Commission for Germany in the years following the Second World War. In addition to the breathtaking view from its open-air terrace and the royal splendor of its 99 rooms, the Grandhotel also features numerous paintings and antiquities, on loan from the German federal government, and a picture archive displaying images from its illustrious past. Available starting from £89 for a standard double room through HRS.com

7. Le Plaza, Brussels, Belgium
Inspired by the Four Seasons George V hotel in Paris, Le Plaza hotel in Brussels first opened in 1930, and masterfully conveys the elegance and luxury conceived by architect Michel Polak. Distinguished guests such as Winston Churchill admired the high ceilings, French facades in ‘pierre de France’, and open spaces, all of which contribute to the refined atmosphere of the hotel. Although Le Plaza ceased operations in 1976 due to widespread urban redevelopment, it was reopened in 1996 by Baron van Gysel de Meise and restored to its original glory. The Presidential Suite is particularly sensational, taking up a remarkable 340 square metres and featuring Verona marble floors and a jacuzzi. Le Plaza is only five minutes away from Grand Place, Brussels’ central square and most important tourist destination alongside the Mannekin Pis and Atomium sculpture. Available starting from £77 for a standard double room through HRS.com

8. Grand Hotel Rimini, Rimini, Italy
With its Liberty-style facades, classical architecture, and location on the Adriatic Coast, the Grand Hotel Rimini is one of the most beautiful places to stay in the Rimini region of Italy. Originally founded in 1908, the hotel was damaged in both the First and Second World Wars, but was always fully rebuilt. Its rooms have also been restored to the Venetian and French styles of the 18th Century, particularly with respect to the original wooden parquet floor and Venetian chandeliers. The Grand Hotel was the favorite destination of Italian Director Federico Fellini, and has been immortalized in many of his films; it was also declared a National Monument by the Italian Government in 1994 and placed under the protection of the Italian Fine Arts programme. Ancient monuments such as the Roman Amphitheatre, the Arch of Augustus and the Ponte d’Augusto are not to be missed. Available starting from £173 for a standard double room through Otel.com

9. The Cadogan, London, United Kingdom
The Cadogan in London, built in 1887, is best known for the dalliances of its infamous guests, including King Edward of England, British actress Lillie Langtry, and playwright Oscar Wilde. Located close to Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace, and various museums, the Cadogan is in the heart of London’s cultural and tourist attractions. The hotel’s 65 rooms and suites are decorated in a modernised Edwardian style, and Langtry’s Restaurant offers creative dishes and imaginative combinations to tease and seduce your appetites. Available starting from £191 for a standard double room through Onhotels

10. Grand Hotel de Cabourg, Cabourg, France
The Grand Hotel de Cabourg in Normandie opened in 1907 and is located in one of the best locations on the Channel coastline. The hotel was a favorite destination of French writer Marcel Proust, who immortalized it in his celebrated work In Search of Lost Time under the name Grand Hotel de Balbec. Proust was a regular visitor, and his room has been faithfully preserved. In addition to the grandiose guest rooms, balconies overlooking the sea, and wide terraces and gardens, fresh delicacies from the sea and surrounding region ensure that a stay at the Grand Hotel de Cabourg is an unforgettable treat for the senses. Available starting from £161 for a standard double room through Booking.com

The ranking is based on the top rated hotels in March 2010 on www.trivago.co.uk with the
most interesting and exciting historical backgrounds.

Courtesy of: trivago

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2010-02-17T02:07:00.000-08:00

Top 10 Romantic Hotels for Valentine’s 2010 « Navigationz

2010-02-12T14:02:00.001-08:00

For Valentine%u2019s Day 2010, the hotel price comparison site www.trivago.co.uk has brought together a list of the top ten most individual and romantic hotels in Europe.

London, 4th February 2010. Every year couples exchange gifts such as flowers and chocolates on Valentine%u2019s Day. Those who want to impress their beloved one, offer an unforgettable romantic weekend getaway instead. trivago has prepared a selection of the cosiest romantic hotels. Whether a small luxury hotel right next to Buckingham Palace, a restored millhouse in the French Dordogne, or a quaint hotel overlooking the Italian Umbria %u2013 these hotels guarantee special quality time together.

Here are the top ten hotels that offer a very special atmosphere and have very good reviews from travellers:

Santini Residence, Prague
The elegant Santini Residence offers nine spacious suites, where couples can enjoy hours of leisure time together. Some rooms have a special highlight: Ornate ceiling paintings that attract the attention of all visitors. Located in the middle of the historical centre of Prague, the luxurious hotel is an ideal base for exploring the capital of the Czech Republic. The Prague Castle and Charles Bridge are easily accessible. In the evening, guests can relax with a glass of red wine in soft lighting and with musical accompaniment on the cosy sofas in the hotel lounge.

Photos Santini Residence, Prague
View of the town hall
View of the entrance of the hotel
View of a room with artistic ceiling paintings
View of the Santini Residence restaurant

Hotel 41, London
Guests at Hotel 41 are located in the neighbourhood of the Queen: The luxurious city hotel can be found behind Buckingham Palace. In a quiet and exclusive location, the hotel welcomes its guests with the flair of a traditional London club. In the tastefully decorated lounge with chandeliers and antique furniture, couples can enjoy their afternoon tea in an elegant atmosphere. After a stroll over the Tower Bridge and through the streets of the bustling capital, comfortable and stylish rooms await the guests of the hotel.

Photos Hotel 41, London
View of the stylish entrance
One of the most romantic suties at the Hotel 41
Sleeping under the stars in one of the rooms at Hotel 41

Hotel Gr, Krakow
The Gr hotel is tucked away in a small side street in the historical centre of Krakow. The 23 guest rooms are individually furnished with a great attention to detail. From here, guests can embark on a journey into the past. The popular %u201CKings Way%u201D takes travellers past the memorial of the Battle of Tannenberg, a large gothic tower and the medieval marketplace. Only two minutes separate this area from the charming city hotel. In the intimate atmosphere of the hotel restaurant, guests can enjoy the evening with a romantic candle-lit dinner.

Photos Hotel Gr, Krakow
Exterior view of the hotel in atmospheric lighting
View of the cosy rooms at Hotel Gr
The fireplace room in the hotel

Villa Contessa, Bad Saarow
The Villa Contessa is located in Bad Saarow on Lake Scharmutzelsee in Brandenburg and is only around one hour%u2019s drive from Berlin. Located in picturesque natural surroundings, this small hotel is home to eight mundane and lovingly decorated rooms. Highlight for lovers: The Rose Spa Suite with a private bio-infrared sauna and a four-poster bed. Guests who book the luxury suite can enjoy the hotels award-winning cuisine in private on the lakeside terrace. Couples can spend time on a romantic carriage ride, in popular thermal baths or on a boat trip on the lake.

Photos Villa Contessa, Bad Saarow
Exterior view of Villa Contessa
The elegantly decorated lobby at Villa Contessa
View of the spa area in the hotel
View of a romantic suite in the Villa Contessa

Moulin d%u2019Abbaye, Brantome (France)
Moulin d%u2019Abbaye is located in the charming market town Brantome in a restored mill house on the tranquil River Dronne. The rooms are all named after the Bordeaux grands crus and decorated with a meticulous attention to detail. In the small town in Dordogne there is a lot to see: a well-preserved medieval city, ruin and Gothic facades on the Rue Joussen. After a leisurely stroll through the city, travellers can enjoy a romantic dinner in the hotel%u2019s restaurant and become enchanted by the magic of this hotel.

Photos Moulin d%u2019Abbaye, Brantlt;/em>
Exterior of the Hotel Moulin d%u2019Abbaye, a former mill house
View into the lounge of the hotel
The bar at Moulin d%u2018Abbaye
View from the terrace of the restaurant on a bridge over the Dronne

Amfitriti Paradosiakos Xenonas, Nafplio (Greece)
The Amfitriti Paradosiakos Xenonas is a small and elegant hotel in the beautiful port town Nafplio. Each of its five rooms is individually decorated in a particular colour. Handmade carpets and antique furniture give the rooms a romantic historical feeling, without losing the modern day comforts. With a view of the sea from the breakfast terrace, guests can begin their day on the Peleponnes. Lovers of Greek mythology also have a lot to explore, with the archaeological sites of Epidauros and Mykene nearby.

Photos Amfitriti Paradosiakos Xenonas, Nafplio (Greece)
The colourful facade of the hotel
View of the stylish bar
View of the individual rooms of the hotel
View from the terrace of the bar of the sea

Hotel The Pand, Bruges
The first-class hotel The Pand is located in the centre of Bruges. Decorated with numerous works of art, antiques and rich fabrics, guests are surrounded by luxury. A boat trip on the %u201CReien%u201D, the canalsof Bruges, is a must on a visit to the city in Flanders. Under picturesque bridges there is a lot to discover along the banks: Hidden gardens, artistic facades and medieval houses. Travellers can also spend the day by the open fireplace in the library of The Pand.

Photos The Pand, Bruges
View of the luxurious suites with four-poster beds in the hotel The Pand
View of the stylish lounge of the hotel
The tranquil courtyard of The Pand

Il Cantico della Natura, Magione (Italy)
Il Cantico della Natura is built out of massive stones from the 16th Century and is home to twelve rooms and suites. Surrounded by olive trees guests have a breathtaking view of Lake Trasimeno. The ooms are cosy and are individually decorated with fine furniture. In the Jacuzzi or the sauna, lovers can take advantage of the %u201Cdolce vita%u201D. For adventure seekers, the hotel regularly organises various activities such as sailing, mountain biking or cooking classes, in which fresh ingredients from the Umbrian region are used.

Photos Il Cantico della Natura, Magione
Exterior view of Il Cantico della Natura
View of the pool
The cosy restaurant
View of the romantic suites in Il Cantico della Natura

Villa Carona, Carona (Switzerland)
In Ticino, in the south of Switzerland, Villa Carona can be found in the artistic village of Carona. In the two hundred year old Patrician House, the hotel has 18 individually designed rooms. At this family run inn, rest and recreation are in the foreground. In particular, the gardens of the house are a little paradise: Here guests can have a breakfast with a view of Monte Generoso before they go on the popular hike from Carona to the picturesque village of Morcote.

Photos Villa Carona, Ticino
Exterior view of Villa Carona
The romantic hotel restaurant
A cosy retreat in the hotel drawing room
View of one of the most elaborately designed rooms

Ca%u2018n Simlcudia (Majorca)
The small family-run hotel Ca%u2018n Simth only seven rooms is situated between the bay of Alcudia and Pollensa. In traditional Majorcan architecture, guests can enjoy the amenities of modern luxuryaway from the tourist hustle and bustle of Majorca. The area around the lively town of Alcudia is also a place for peace-seekers: Whether a romantic walk on the beach, a tour of the nearby golf course or an excursion to the dragon caves of Porto Cristo. After an exciting day on the Balearic Island, guests can relax in the hotel whirlpool or sauna.

Photos Ca%u2019n Simajorca
The pools of the Hotel Ca%u2019n Sim;/a>
Glimpse into the romantic Majorcan designed rooms

Courtesy of: trivago

South Africa: Country Roads

2009-12-28T00:07:00.001-08:00

Explore South Africa with me!

Do you love to travel? trivago.co.uk is a great website to meet likeminded people from around the world. I have been writing reviews and adding photos of the places I have been to; been using reviews and recommendations on trivago to plan my next holiday and, besides helping other members, I have been earning money for all content that I've added.

Take this opportunity to promote your corner of the World, mingle with a vibrant community and be paid for the privilege - if you think that it might be something for you, take a look at my profile and register for free.

I'm looking forward to seeing you at trivago and reading about your travel experiences!

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2009-12-23T00:02:00.001-08:00

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European hotel prices plummet « Navigationz

2009-07-06T11:25:00.001-07:00

European hotel prices are seven percent cheaper in comparison to July 2008. These are the findings of the tHPI (trivago Hotel Price Index) which is published monthly by the hotel price comparison site www.trivago.co.uk. Travellers can currently find cheap hotel deals in the major Spanish and Italian tourist destinations. In top European cities prices have decreased up to 25 percent in comparison to the previous year.

London, July 6th 2009. The trivago hotel price index shows that accommodation prices in Europe are seven percent less than the previous year. A standard double room in one of the top European cities costs 90 pounds in July 2009, compared to 97 pounds in July 2008. In 38 of the 50 cities hotel prices have decreased or remained the same.

Cheap hotel prices in Southern Europe
There has been a substantial drop in prices in the most popular holiday destinations. In Rome, the price of a standard double room is 102 pounds in July, seven percent less than last year. In Milan hotel prices are seven percent less (93 pounds). Prices are also plunging in Spanish cities: a room in Madrid is 74 pounds, 31 percent less than the previous year (107 pounds). In Barcelona the average hotel price is 94 pounds, 28 percent less than July 2008. Other Southern European cities such as Turin (84 pounds), Palermo (81 pounds), Lisbon (75 pounds) and Bologna (73 pounds) have also seen a considerable decrease in prices.

Bargains also in Scandinavia and the United Kingdom
Sweden and Norway are usually consistently expensive countries to visit, however this July prices are also more favourable. Overnight accommodation prices in Stockholm (101 pounds) and Oslo (111 pounds) are at their lowest level this year. These cities are 20 percent less than last month and over

10 percent less than last year. Also in the United Kingdom there are good deals this July in comparison to the previous year. A room in Brighton1 this July is 14 percent cheaper at 110 pounds. Accommodation prices in Birmingham are 20 percent less (74 pounds); an overnight stay in Manchester is 17 percent less than July 2008. Hotel prices in the English capital have risen by two percent to 134 pounds and Geneva remains the most expensive European city at 194 pounds.

The www.trivago.co.uk hotel price index shows the average overnight accommodation prices for the most popular European cities on trivago. The average prices for a standard double room are calculated on the basis of 40,000 daily price inquiries for overnight hotel stay generated through the trivago hotel price comparison. trivago stores all hotel enquiries for each month and therefore gives an overview of hotel accommodation prices for the upcoming month.

The difference in price for the top 25 European cities in comparison to July 2008 can be found here:

The difference in price for the top 25 European cities in comparison to June 2009 can be found here:

Subscribe for the monthly trivago price index by emailing: thpi@trivago.com.

Press Contact: Sian Williams
Tel: +44 (20) 30025995
E-Mail: sian.williams@trivago.co.uk

Marvellous Mystique (Oia, Santorini) « Navigationz

2009-06-13T12:58:00.001-07:00

Mystique: a stellar establishment on a crater’s edge above the Aegean

Featured in the Condé Nast Traveller Hot List 2008, Mystique is a member of Starwood’s Luxury Collection and thus it was expected that it would be “stellar”. The author was not disappointed and writes that it is “a sensitive makeover” of an earlier hotel with friendly staff and “curvaceous walls” which “stand out in comforting cream” in contrast to the usual “Cycladic white”.

Located on a crater’s edge above the Aegean, the Starwood Mystique features guest rooms which are “carved into the cliff” and offer “caldera views”. Décor is a combination of “the troglodytic look” and “island flair”, with limestone floors and “lamps sculpted from driftwood” being paired with cushions in “traditional floral designs”. It is noted that the “cave-cellar” is full of interesting wines and the restaurant provides “delicious dishes made with fresh, local ingredients”.

The hotel was awarded on the 12th February in New York with the Travel & Leisure Design Award 2008 for the Best Small Resort in the World. As the publication notes, “Architecture and design shape every aspect of the travel experience”. Mystique was honoured for its standout design attended by Frank Lefebvre of Bleu Nature.
Its 18 Suites and Villas with a contemporary, yet respectful towards the tradition design, have managed to perfectly adopt in the surrounding area of the traditional Cycladic village of Oia on the caldera of Santorini. Mystique’s facilities include an outdoor infinity pool at the cliff’s edge, the Charisma gourmet restaurant, the poolside Aura bar and the Secret Wine Cave, a dramatic 150 year old wine cellar. [source: yatzer]

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Museu da Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian « Navigationz

2009-05-20T00:53:00.001-07:00

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This modern, multimillion-dollar center is home to “one of the world’s finest private art collections” which includes Egyptian, Greek, and Roman antiquities. The Museu da Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian is rated as “exceptional” by Frommers and it is noted that the collection includes “a remarkable assemblage of Islamic art”, “medieval illuminated manuscripts and ivories”, silver which was “once used by Catherine the Great” and works by such Masters as Rembrandt, Rubens and Renoir.

There are also Oriental vases and prints on display, as well as sculptures, Renaissance tapestries and medals and some “important collections of 18th-century French decorative works”. It is noted that the museum also offers a rotating exhibition of modern art and that the Foundation sponsors plays, films, ballets, and concerts. [Frommers]

Address: Avenida Berna 45, Lisboa 1067-001
Telephone: +351(21)7823000
Fax: +351(21)7823032
Web: homepage

Enjoy a spa-break @ Avalon Springs « Navigationz

2009-05-16T03:46:00.001-07:00

Avalon Springs is located in Montagu, a scenic two-hour drive from Cape Town. Offering very good value for money, it is the ideal place to unwind with great facilities for the health-orientated guest who wishes to gym, sauna, have massages etc. Very relaxed and friendly ambiance throughout. Weekends may be slightly crowded, but midweek the Avalon is definitely one of the best spots I have ever encountered for total relaxation.

Avalon Springs, Montagu

Visitors also have the opportunity to enjoy a scenic tractor trip in the Langeberg at the Protea Farm and discover the delights of a traditional South African potjiekos.

Contact Details: HOMEPAGE

Telephone: (023) 6… (International: 27236141150)

Facsimile: (023) 614 1906 (International: 27236141906)

Postal Address: Po Box 110, Montagu, Western Cape, 6720

Physical Address: Uitvlucht Str, Montagu, Western Cape

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Top 10 Hotels at trivago « Navigationz

2009-05-15T14:00:00.001-07:00

At trivago the customer can compare prices with one mouse click. With a unique meta price comparison for hotels, the client searching can find the cheapest deal from different well known booking platforms.

Even people that prefer to book directly through hotels should also check out trivago first. Often intermediaries can offer better prices than the hotel itself. Those visitors who know exactly what they want, can use different criteria to narrow down the search to suit their individual needs.

Some of the most researched hotels the past week at trivago:

Ibis Amsterdam Centre

Holiday Inn Heidelberg

Riddargatan

NH Voltaire Potsdam

Etap Hamburg-Ost Wandsbek

Hipotels Barrosa Park

Palma Bay Club

Riu Playa Park

RIU Palace Tenerife

Fiesta Club Bahamas

Thanks to the trivago community, visitors can find personal travel reports, holiday photos, hotel, restaurant and destination evaluations, beyond compare. No sales driven travel agent has a say in this, only the travelers with their personal recommendations. Therefore, an honest impression of the next holiday destination develops because of the fact that trivago members write and judge only that information which they share between themselves.

Every member engaged in the community also benefits financially, as the community shares a large part of the commission from hotel recommendations. Active users can therefore contribute to their travel funds, and again use their newly gained travel information for the community.

Peter Vinnemeier, Malte Siewert, Rolf Schrömgens (from left to right)

“trivago’s unique technological structure makes finding hotels efficiently with your chosen criteria possible.”
- Peter Vinnemeier, Technology Sales and Distribution Manager

“For most internet users the online travel market is still very unclear. With our price comparison we clarify the offers from various suppliers for customers. Our partners also profit from trivago through an increase in bookings and publicity. We compare the prices from booking machines, which provide an added value and are thus competitive. At times one partner has the advantage, and at times another. The region in which someone is looking for a hotel also plays a big role. We have determined that individual suppliers in specific countries or cities are especially low-cost. Without the help of trivago, such information is only available to customers via exhausting search efforts on their part.”
- Malte Siewert, Finance and Business Development Manager

“trivago is often used as an ideal example for the Web 2.0. With the overuse of the word ‘ideal’ the latter hardly holds any meaning for me.
To put it simply, in comparison to its competition, trivago goes the extra mile. trivago doesn’t have a community, it is the community. Every user is immediately part of the broad picture, in which the possibilities are endless.”
- Rolf Schrömgens, Strategy and Product Manager

Sublime Drakensberg Experience! « Navigationz

2009-05-15T04:55:00.001-07:00

By Brian Kemp

Travelling to South Africa? Well, you’re going to Cape Town, right? And you want to see if you can get the Big 5? Here’s something that’s better than Cape Town. Better than the Big 5. And it’s the Drakensberg Boys’ Choir.

There are quite a few things that are unique or world class in South Africa, and the Drakensberg Boys’ Choir is one of them.

Doors opened in 1965 to the first 20 pupils. The dream was of a multi-racial, multi-cultural Choir School to rival the Vienna Boys. Not in the middle of a history-rich, ancient European city. But in the boondocks. In a beautiful, rural, sparsely populated valley in the Drakensberg Mountains of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. The first and only one of its kind on the continent.

Today the annual intake is 100 boys between 9 and 15, and auditions are held nation-wide. Can you think of anything more sublime than crisp, mountain air, majestic mountains, azure skies and natural beauty as far as the eye can see, complemented by the pure tones of counter-tenor harmony?

The Drakensberg Boys’ Choir tours overseas every year and is internationally recognized as one of the best in the world. And they aren’t just holier that thou brats either – after hours they’re into rapids tubing, abseiling and hiking in their Drakensberg paradise. They work hard and play hard.

Be prepared for diversity. If you like a good dirge, stay away. The Drakensberg Boys’ Choir has very catholic tastes. The first half of the concert is classical. You might hear Bach or Beethoven or Mozart. The second half can be anything. It could be Queen. (Freddie Mercury would have loved it). Or folk, or jazz, or sacred music. Or African harmonies you’ve never heard before that will bring tears to your eyes.

Come with tissues. And a jersey, for the goosebumps. But whatever you do, BE THERE. The Drakensberg Boys’ Choir performs most Wednesdays during term time at 3.30 p.m. There is a world class auditorium on campus.

So if you’re coming to South Africa – sure Cape Town’s good and you need the Big 5. But you really shouldn’t miss this. Sublime Drakensberg experience!

Brian & Janette Kemp own Halls Country House, a 4-star retreat in the foothills of the Drakensberg in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. Article Source: Travel Article Library.com

Drakensberg Boys’ Choir School

The Choir is representative of the multi-faceted cultures that make up South Africa. It has created a new trend in the international choral scene that transcends the conventional. A unique style of diversity – Bach, Beethoven, Freddie Mercury, African sounds, Jazz, Folk, etc.

The Drakensberg Boys’ Choir captivates audiences with its unique and diverse style of music, which demonstrates the versatility and depth of the Choir’s ability. This can be especially seen and heard with the recent addition of more modern art music. The Choir is internationally acclaimed for its unique African repertoire, containing various traditional works like ‘Shosholoza’, and ‘Night Sounds’ where the boys imitate the sounds of the African Bush. They also perform a ‘Gumboot Dance’, which originated on the South African mines. Using authentic African instruments and body percussion as accompaniment, the boys perform traditional African works as have never been experienced before!

The Choir also excels in music such as Handel’s “Messiah”, Mozart’s “Requiem”, Bernstein’s “Chichester Psalms”, Bach’s “Magnificat”, and many more works of this stature. [wikipedia]

Château de Vauvenargues opened May-Sept « Navigationz

2009-05-14T05:16:00.001-07:00

Château de Vauvenargues

The Château de Vauvenargues is to be opened to the public between May and September in conjunction with the Picasso-Cézanne which is hosted at the Musée Granet in Aix-en-Provence.

Pablo Picasso’s burial site opened to public – Telegraph.
By Jon Bryant in Aix-en-Provence

The French château where Pablo Picasso is buried is to be opened to the public for the first time, 35 years after his death.

The Spanish artist was buried in the grounds of a château that he bought on a whim in 1958 in the village of Vauvenargues in the south of France.

Picasso’s 17th Century Chateau Opens To The Public : Wicked Good Travel Tips.
The grand chateau will welcome pre-reserved tours from May 25th until September 27, seven days a week. Small groups of 18 will be hosted by a guide with entry each half hour. Tours will visit Picasso’s suite of private rooms including the diningroom, bedroom, bathroom (with Picasso’s painted wall above the tub), and of course his studio. Picasso and his wife Jacqueline have been laid to rest at the foot of the main steps on the terrace. Tickets can be purchased for 7.70 euros at the Aix en Provence Tourist Board and the Granet Museum.

A Summer of Picasso | Travel News from Fodor’s Travel Guides.

May 27th will mark the first day the public will be admitted to Picasso’s Château de Vauvenargues, which lords it over a tiny village of the same name.

Once inside, visitors will be able to view a suite of Picasso’s private rooms. These will include his bedroom and bath (on whose walls he painted a mural of a faun), and, most pointedly, his studio, which has been left exactly as it was, down to the last errant splatter of paint.

If you’ve ever dreamt of making a pilgrimage to Picasso Country, this is your year.

With newly granted access to the grave of the father of 20th century art, art lovers everywhere are already making plans to pay their respects.

One&Only, Cape Town « Navigationz

2009-05-14T03:10:00.001-07:00

The One&Only has arrived in grand style & with much fanfare! Guests at the grand opening included Nelson Mandela and celebrities such as Mariah Carey, Sharon Stone, Robert de Niro & Matt Damon. Sol Kerzner’s latest was launched in April and offers the Mother City and her visitors some truly unique features, not least of which are the only restaurants on the African continent operated by Nobuyuki ‘Nobu’ Matsuhisa & Gordon Ramsay and a 6,000 bottle tri-level wine loft.

This R900-million, 6-star resort is ideally located for guests attending the 2010 World Cup and boasts the largest and most luxurious Cape Town accommodations as well as the most comprehensive Spa. Of course the price tag matches the setting and ranges from about 500€ to 4,500€ per night.

Tel: + 27 (0)21 431 5800
Fax: +27 (0)21 431 5230
Email: reservations@oneandonlycapetown.com
Website: www.oneandonlyresorts.com/capetown

View Larger Map
Press:

Kerzner’s brash and bold use of celebrities and the media to boost his brand is, he says, a deliberate marketing tool. “Why be the world’s best kept secret?’ he joked to CNN by the infinity pool of his newest venture.

And after more than 40 years in the business, he understands that the allure of the rich and famous can help him to sell hotel rooms.

In the early 1960’s, when he was just 29, Kerzner developed South Africa’s first five start hotel called the Beverley Hills. Marlene Dietrich, he says, was at the opening.

Years later, when he revolutionized the concept of a gaming and entertainment destination by developing the Sun City resort, Frank Sinatra performed at the opening of the Sun City Superbowl.

When he launched his One&Only Palmilla in Mexico the opening party was a surprise fiftieth birthday party for Hollywood actor John Travolta.

In 2008, at the opening of the Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai, his celebratory fireworks display was beamed live on satellite around the world and was billed as so spectacular it the could be seen from space.

Now in his 70’s, Kerzner’s showing now signs of slowing down. His next hotel and casino resort opens in Morocco later this year. (CNN)

Hospitalis | Crazy Cuisine « Navigationz

2009-05-11T15:33:00.001-07:00

Dying for a drink, ready for a straightjacket or simply just in the mood for munching fake body parts? Then head to Hospitalis in Riga! This is no sick joke, but rather the brainchild of a consortium of doctors who have taken what they know best and turned it into an unusual theme restaurant with authentic tools & accessories. Be warned: besides the International menu there are dishes such as “RESIDIO POSTAMPUTATIONEM TRAUMATICA MIXTUM” and, with a steak costing about £45, the final bill might be detrimental to your health.

Phone +371 67313530, Fax +371 67313531, Stabu street 14, Riga (restorans@hospitalis.lv)

Hospitalis hospital-theme restaurant | Travel News | News.com.au.

Decked out in a sterile, modern medical environment and boasting scantily clad nurses, the Hospitalis in Riga serves hearty Latvian dishes and a macabre cake topped with realistic-looking body parts such as fingers, noses and tongues.

Served on gurneys and operating tables, the restaurant provides diners with cutlery such as syringes, tweezers and scalpels to devour their meals.

Hospitalis | Cool Things In Random Places.

No “Bully Beef” @ elBulli « Navigationz

2009-05-11T13:20:00.001-07:00

Described as being “the hottest culinary spot on the planet” and headed by a “legendary gastronomic genius”, El Bulli presents “cutting edge creations” which consist of “extremely unusual and stimulating combinations”. This is a “gourmets dream destination” which offers a “spacious dining room” and only opens from April to September. It is noted that “no conventional dish can be found” and that “160 recipes are created each year” to provide the “30-course marathon”.

Eating the “famous spherical olives” is described as a “magical sensation” and the melon caviar is said to be “one of the chefs masterpieces, perfect in every possible way”. First courses were served on “uniquely designed ultra-modern plates”. Although some dishes were “very intriguing” and “exquisite”, it is also noted that the 20th-course had “terrible” presentation and its vegetarian alternative is described as being a “closed coffin filled with parmesan air” which was “submerged in liquid nitrogen and setting as solid”. Dishes also included “absolutely stunning” Marrakech crab .

The reviewer states that overall it was a “joyful, stimulating and interesting dining experience” but that it “was not our best meal” and that there were too many “weird ingredients”. The service throughout was “smooth, friendly and professional” and the wine list was “fabulous”. [Read the full article]

Address: Cala Montjoi
17480 Roses

Telephone: +34(972)150457

Fax: +34(972)150717

Cradle of Humankind « Navigationz

2009-05-10T11:40:00.001-07:00

Maropeng (from the Wikimedia Commons)

Maropeng

Maropeng is the official visitors centre for the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Cradle of Humankind. It is located approximately 10km from the Sterkfontein Caves on the R400 (which links the R563 Hekpoort Road and the R24 Magaliesburg Road). The Setswana name means “‘returning to the place of our origins” and the Centre is also designed in such a manner that the front view resembles an ancient burial mound (Tumulus) whilst the rear is ultra modern, reflecting the development of mankind.

The Tumulus is the first of its kind worldwide and offers, amongst other things, a boat ride on an underground lake. During this tour visitors are transported through geological time to the beginning of the World. From there the tour provides exhibits, theme-park technology and various other techniques to display how humankind has evolved. Available facilities include an open air amphitheatre, conference venues, restaurants, a bar, an observation deck, craft market, souvenir shops and accommodation options. Ample parking is provided. Maropeng is open daily between 09h00 and 17h00, the last tour commencing at 16h00.

Telephone: +27(14)5779000

Homepage

Maropeng brings fossils to life

A short drive from both Johannesburg and Pretoria and only 10 kilometres from the remarkable Sterkfontein Caves in the Cradle of Humankind world heritage site, a state-of-the-art visitors’ facility has risen from the red Gauteng dust.

Named Maropeng, Setswana for “the place where we once lived”, the centre is designed to help tourists, schoolchildren and others explore the rich fossil heritage of the area.

The Cradle of Humankind, encompassing the region of Sterkfontein, Swartkrans, Kromdraai and environs, has one of the world’s richest concentrations of hominid fossils, evidence of human evolution over the last 3.5-million years.

Found in the provinces of Gauteng and North West, the fossil sites cover an area of 47 000 hectares. The remains of ancient forms of animals, plants and hominids – our early ancestors and their relatives – are captured in a bed of dolomite deposited around 2.5-billion years ago.

Although other sites in south and east Africa have similar remains, the Cradle has produced more than 950 hominid fossil specimens.

Attracting fossil tourists

Lying in the centre of the Cradle area, Maropeng brings to life the history of humankind in an entertaining and educative way. It offers interactive displays, restaurants, a marketplace, an outdoor amphitheatre and, from March 2006, a 24-bedroom five-star hotel.

The R347-million Cradle of Humankind development is an initiative by Blue IQ and the Gauteng government and the first public-private partnership of its kind in South Africa. The aim is to develop and manage the world heritage site as a premier tourist destination. Other partners include the University of the Witwatersrand, which owns the Sterkfontein Caves and is the major excavator of the Cradle site, while Standard Bank donated 100 hectares of land for Maropeng.

View Larger Map

Even before construction was complete, Maropeng had garnered major awards. In early November it won the British Guild of Travel Writers award for the best new tourism project worldwide, and later in November the consortium behind the project was named Best Civil Engineering and Building Contractors and Best Public-Private Partnership at Construction World’s premier annual Best Projects Awards event.

Maropeng’s main attractions include:

Visitors’ centre.

Conference facilities for up to 350 delegates.

Three restaurants.

Luxury boutique hotel with views over a private game farm.

Outdoor 5 000-seat events amphitheatre.

Accommodation for 120 schoolchildren.

Retail food outlets.

Destination retail store.

Visitor information points.

Arts and crafts marketplace.

Observation deck.

Ample parking for cars and coaches.

Source: SouthAfrica.info

The all-in-one official guide

and web portal to South Africa.

Cape Town « Navigationz

2009-05-10T11:36:00.001-07:00

“A most stately thing, and the fairest Cape we saw in the whole circumference of the earth.”- Sir Francis Drake (16th century)

Considered to be one of the global hot spots, Cape Town offers the foreign traveller good value for money and, according to Frommers, “is regularly heralded as one of the most beautiful (cities) on earth” due to its unique scenery. Whether you are into sophistication or slumming it, searching for adventure or tranquility, Cape Town is sure to be a pleasant surprise. Pairing the natural beauty with a vibey and friendly culture, there are a variety of delights ranging from award winning French-style wines to Malay cuisine, fine art and architecture, a wealth of historical sights and much more on offer.

Historical Perspective

Although Phoenician mariners circumnavigated Africa as long ago as 2600 B.C., it was only on 6 April 1652 that three Dutch vessels commanded by Jan van Riebeeck landed at the Cape. They set about erecting a wooden fort and planting gardens to provide fresh produce to the trading ships of the Dutch East India Company. This was the start of the Company Gardens which are still in existence and presently house both the S.A. National Gallery and South African Museum as well as a planetarium. The humble tool shed of the gardens evolved into Tuynhuys, which is now the presidential residence.

The original fort was replaced by the Castle of Good Hope which was completed in 1679 and is the oldest building in South Africa. Initially located on the beach, the Castle is now more centrally located due to the reclaiming of the sea and development of the Foreshore area since 1943. One of the main streets, Strand Street, marks the original coastline and is also where the Gold of Africa Museum is located.

Origins of the Rainbow Nation
The settlers promptly named the indigenous pastoralists “Hottentots”, which later evolved into a derogatory Afrikaans term for non-white persons. The people who subsisted on shell fishing were named “Strandlopers” and the groups who hunted were called “Bushmen”. The Cape Coloured community, which defines the unique local culture, are the descendants of these initial inhabitants of the Colony and the slaves who were imported mainly from Madagascar and Indonesia.

By 1754 there were about 5500 Europeans in the Cape and as many, if not slightly more, slaves. Slaves were emancipated in 1834 and thus the Bo-Kaap, or ‘upper city’, was established by the Muslim community after being freed from slavery. On 21 December 1834 the St George’s Church held its first service at the site consecrated by the Bishop of Calcutta in 1827 and on 22 August 1901 the St. George’s Cathedral came into being when its foundation stone was laid by the Duke of Cornwall and York, who later was crowned George V. The political climate gave rise to the “Groot Trek” in 1836, when thousands of Dutch families headed inland and by 1840 the Cape population stood at about 20 000, of which half were Europeans.

1899 saw the outbreak of the Anglo-Boer War, partially due to the gold rush in the Witwatersrand. One of the key players was Cecil John Rhodes, to whom the Rhodes Memorial had been erected in the southern suburbs of Cape Town. A statue of Rhodes pointing inland is also found in the Company Gardens. In 1910 Cape Town was declared the legislative capital of the newly-formed Union of South Africa and the Houses of Parliament have been in use ever since. 1948 saw the election of the National Party and the subsequent start of “apartheid”, which was the implementation of various laws relating to racial segregation. This included the Group Areas Development Act of 1955 which led to the resettlement of more than 60,000 residents from District Six. Memorabilia from this era can be viewed at the District Six Museum.

By 1962 thousands of black political prisoners were being sent to Robben Island, including Nelson Mandela in 1964. A State of Emergency was declared on 12 June 1986 and eventually culminated in the release of Nelson Mandela and others in 1990 when all political organizations were unbanned. Mandela, or Madiba as he is fondly called, held his freedom speech from the balcony of the City Hall, which currently houses the central library and symphonic orchestra and was built from limestone imported from Bath, England in 1905. The neo-classical façade makes this building noteworthy, but it is just one of many architectural delights which await visitors to Cape Town, where numerous old buildings have been lovingly restored to their former glory and now house contemporary clubs and restaurants.

General

Tourist information centres abound and offer a range of guides, maps and details of opening hours for local attractions, including the wine estates, many of which are located within a 90 minute scenic drive from Cape Town.

Normal shopping hours are between 08h00 and 17h30, though big malls operate daily between 09h00 and 21h00. Traveler’s cheques and foreign currency are not the norm, but major credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Value Added Tax (14%) is included in all purchases and foreign visitors can reclaim the VAT on expenditures exceeding ZAR 250.00. Banking hours are from 09h00 to 15h30 weekdays and 08h30 to 11h00 on Saturdays.

South Africa operates two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time throughout the year. October till March are the most popular tourist months, but with its temperate Mediterranean climate and temperatures ranging between 8 and 25 degrees Celsius, Cape Town is a recommended destination for any time of year, certain aspects such as the indigenous flora being more seasonal.

Travel

Airlines from all five continents service South Africa and land at the Cape Town International Airport, which has been voted the “Leading Airport in Africa” at the World Travel Awards. ATMs, bars, restaurants and currency exchange facilities are available throughout the airport, as are a number of shops. Many of the flights also touch down at Johannesburg en-route, making it quite viable to experience the South African landscape by including a trip on the Blue Train or luxurious Rovos Rail between Johannesburg and Cape Town.

A number of cruise lines dock at Cape Town, including one of the few remaining old mail ships, the RMS St Helena, which sets sail from Southampton. Further options include overland journeys (such as Cape to Cairo) provided by a number of tour operators. Air travel to Durban and a three-day coastal cruise to Cape Town is also possible, as is travel on any of a number of coaches which interlink the major cities and provides economical access to some of the more remote destinations.

A flight from London lasts approximately 12 hours (usually overnight) and one can travel from the USA in about 15 hours. There are shuttle bus services and taxis from the airport which will whisk you into the CBD in less than half an hour and a number of car rental agencies are also represented. Sedan taxis are plentiful and charge between ZAR 8 – ZAR 11 per km. For the brave there are also numerous somewhat crowded and not-always-safe minibus taxis.

Accommodation & Conference Venues

Although the Mount Nelson is the Grande Old Dame of Cape accommodation and features colonial elegance in scenic surroundings at the foot of Table Mountain, the luxury hotel Cape Grace has on occasion been awarded “Best Hotel in the World” status and remains a firm favorite with visitors to Cape Town. There is also the very popular and upmarket Southern Sun Cape Sun (located in the City center), as well as the nearby Victoria & Alfred Hotel at the V&A Waterfront and the Cape Town Lodge.

A more economical alternative is the centrally located Park Inn Greenmarket Square, which is adjacent to the oldest hotel in Cape Town, the Tudor . The relatively new ArabellaSheraton Grand Hotel offers easy access to the CBD as well as surrounding regions and is situated at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). For smaller conference facilities in tranquil, historic surroundings, the Groot Constantia Estate is highly recommended, albeit a bit distant.

Tourist Attractions & Activities

1988 saw the birth of the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront Company, which was permitted to lease 83 hectares of the old Cape Town harbour area. Today it houses the Two Oceans Aquarium , numerous craft markets, an Imax Theatre and immense shopping complex. This makes the V&A Waterfront the ideal place to while away a few hours. A number of boat cruises are available, ranging from harbour trips to watch seals, to romantic sunset cruises along the Peninsula on modern yachts or an old-fashioned sailboat.

Visitors can also board a steam locomotive to the Spier Estate in Stellenbosch at the Waterfront and sip champagne en route to Spier, where activities include live music, horse-carriage rides, a cheetah park, lakeside picnic options and a bevy of fine restaurants which afford you the opportunity to sample Cape wines.

The citysightseeing bus is possibly one of the most convenient ways to explore the Mother City and includes stops at the Table Mountain cableway and various museums and attractions in the City in its Red Route. The Blue Route includes a trip to Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, as well as a township tour in Kronendal near Hout Bay, where you will also be able to visit the Mariner’s Wharf and spend time on the beach. Included in the tour is a trip through Camps Bay and Sea Point, as well as a visit to the enchanting World of Birds. En route you will also pass the first lighthouse in South Africa, which is still fully functional. There are almost 50 popular surfing spots within an hours drive from Cape Town and you may very well opt for a stunningly scenic drive along Chapman’s Peak to simply enjoy windsurfing at Noordhoek or relaxing on the beach.

Approximately 10 km from Cape Town, towards the Northern suburbs, you will encounter Century City, which encompasses a residential area, business park and the Canal Walk shopping centre, as well as the Island Club hotel and Ratanga Junction theme park. Unusual architecture reminiscent of the heyday of Cape Town, complete with a replica of the original fort, can be seen at the nearby GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World. Cape Town sport options range from abseiling the highest commercial “long-drop” (112m) in the world, to shark diving (at approximately ZAR 1000 per person), rock angling, tennis, golf, horse-riding and a number of hiking trails such as the Contour Path between Rhodes Memorial and Kirstenbosch, Platteklip Gorge nearby the cableway and the relatively easy Pipetrack from Camps Bay.

A visit to the most southwesterly point of the African Continent at Cape Point affords marvellous views and an opportunity to enjoy the natural flora at this World Heritage Site. Visitors can also gain an understanding of local culture by participating in one of the available Township Tours.

Art enthusiasts would enjoy a trip to the Irma Stern Museum, whilst the literary minded could browse the vast collections at the National Library as well as the Centre for the Book, which is also a splendid example of Edwardian architecture. The most centrally located theatre and opera house in the Mother City is the Artscape, but dinner and theatre packages are also available at the Theatre on the Bay, situated approximately 10km from the CBD.

Clubs, pubs and Nightlife

The Dockside at Century City offers the biggest dance floor in South Africa and often hosts international DJs. Sub-divided into various areas with different music, it has been described by Frommers as being “more like a mall with 5 dance floors and 14 bars”.

For lovers of Motown, Soul and Funk, 169 on Long is the happening place from 8 till late, Wednesdays to Saturdays. Situated in Long Street, it is near a number of nightclubs, restaurants and bars such as the well-known Purple Turtle. Visitors wanting a stylish, upmarket club would do well to visit Rhodes House, where themed parties are regularly held. There are also a number of gay guest houses, restaurants and pubs such as the Manhattan Cafe and Bronx Action Bar. In terms of gay rights South Africa is one of the most progressive countries and Cape Town hosts an annual Pride Festival each February.

Shopping and Dining

Cape Town offers a wide selection of shops, including the biggest mall in Africa which is situated at Canal Walk. The unusual Ice Lounge at the V&A Waterfront provides a cool venue for pre-dinner drinks and is located conveniently close to both the Hildebrand Restaurant and the lively
Quay Four restaurant at the waters edge. A visit to Cape Town would be incomplete without exploring the eclectic mix of shops, bars, clubs and cosmopolitan restaurants to be found in Long Street and for those wishing to experience truly African cuisine, a visit to the Africa Café is recommended. Fine dining can also be found at Ginja and Madame Zingara. If you wish to enjoy the harbour lights whilst having dinner, or want to entertain guests aboard a yacht, the Sea Horse is the answer. For those who wish to combine a day at the beach with a seafood dinner, the ideal solution is a visit to the nearby suburb of Fish Hoek, where you will find the Galley Seafood Restaurant right on the beach.

Festivals and Events

A highlight on the Cape social calendar is the annual J&B Met which occurs each January, showcases top horseracing events and is followed by a large after-party. During the first week of January, Cape Town also experiences the Minstrel Carnival, an ongoing series of song and dance performances by members of the local community to herald in the New Year.

Late November to early April sees a range of summer sunset concerts at the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, with many visitors enjoying the sunset, music and picnics on the extended lawns. Another popular musical event is the Symphony of Fire fireworks at the Waterfront, as is the International Jazz Festival which occurs in March. Also of interest is the Cape Town World Cinema Festival which is held at various venues each November.

Cyclists would enjoy the Cape Argus Pick ‘n Pay Cycle Tour which covers a distance of more than 100 km, starting in Cape Town and routing through the Southern Suburbs, along the False Bay coastline and back via the very scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive.

The infrastructure, numerous outdoor activities and its rich cultural heritage has led to Cape Town being described as a “must-see before I die” city. Major developments are already underway in preparation for the 2010 World Cup and a new ultra-luxurious hotel is being built at the V&A Waterfront with canals which would connect to Century City, effectively creating a mini-Venice. Whether you’re an eco-tourist, culture-vulture or simply looking for adventure and a great vacation, Cape Town is sure to exceed your expectations.

High Expectations!

2009-05-10T03:51:00.001-07:00

In an attempt to draw more visitors, the Sears Tower aka Willis Tower is being spruced up and adding an awesome ledge. Have a head for heights? Then give this a shot!

Sears Tower Debuts Glass Walk Out and Skydeck Experience
The Ledge at Skydeck Chicago Brings the City to Your Feet – Literally
CHICAGO – May 4, 2009 – Sears Tower announced that The Ledge, a series of glass bays that extend from the building, will debut to the public next month as part of an updated Skydeck Chicago experience. Reaching out 4.3 feet from the building‟s Skydeck on the 103rd floor, visitors will have unobstructed views of Chicago – 1,353 feet straight down. “We‟ve listened to our visitors and people just want to get closer,” said Randy Stancik, general manager, Skydeck Chicago. “You‟d only need to see the forehead prints on the windows to know that visitors are constantly trying to catch a glimpse below. Now, they have an unobstructed view straight down and an exhilarating experience.”

A glass-bottom Skydeck for Sears Tower
Visitors won't have to crane their necks to see straight down from the Sears Tower Skydeck when the building adds four glass-bottomed balconies, nicknamed "The Ledge," to its 50-mile views come June. The Skydeck on the 103rd floor of the building that is changing its name to Willis Tower, opened in 1974, and has--weather permitting--always provided a view of four states. But to see what's directly beneath them, visitors always had to get as close to the building's windows as possible. The Ledge is scheduled to open next month, according to a spokeswoman for the Skydeck.

Sense of spinning, disorientation possible on skydeck

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: Business. (BY MIKE THOMAS): Some folks can’t handle heights. Maybe you’re one of them. But unless you’re acrophobic (have a morbid fear of heights) or suffer from vertigo (the symptom of an inner ear disorder), any feelings of spinning or disorientation brought on by staring down 103 stories through a glass floor are more likely caused by visual perception that’s simply out of whack.

Sears Tower glass ledge gives superhero view - Odd News | newslite.tv.

Tourists to Sears Tower in Chicago will soon be able to enjoya view normally reserved for Spiderman.
Glass balconies are being installed near the top of the tallest tower in America, offering dizzyness-inducing views 102-stories straight down. Bosses for the 442m (1,450ft) tower say there will be three layers of half-inch thick glass and that the balconies will be able to hold about five tons. The idea for "The Ledges" is said to have come from the hundreds of forehead prints left on windows at the top of the tower which attracts 1.3 million visitors each year.

Right Pundits

A tall storey...

Whatever happened to Laszlo Toth, the man who smashed Michelangelo's Pieta in 1972?

When in Rome... see Michelangelo's Pietà

2009-05-09T12:17:00.001-07:00

Michelangelos Pietà in St. Peters Basilica (by Stanislav Traykov)

A statue was commissioned for the tomb in St. Peters of the French cardinal Jean de Billheres, who was a representative in Rome. According to the formal agreement, the Pieta` was to be "the most beautiful work of marble in Rome, one that no living artist could better." Michelangelo was neither daunted nor intimated by such a request and upon its completion the world declared that Michelangelo’s Pieta ‘surpassed not only the sculptures of his contemporaries but even those of the ancient Greeks and Romans themselves; the standards by which all art was judged.’ The lamentation of Christ was a theme popular in Northern European art since the fourteenth century and it traditionally focused on the portrayal of pain through the two figures of Mary and Jesus. But Michelangelo's interpretation of Mary holding a dead Christ in her arms is remarkable in its devotion to the Renaissance Humanist ideals of physical perfection and beauty. Michelangelo boldly celebrated the intimacy and majesty of a single moment frozen in time, choosing to portray Mary as a chaste and glowing young woman holding the gracefully lifeless body of the Savior across her lap. When we gaze upon this masterpiece it’s as though Mary’s outstretched left hand beckons us to share with her, the profound grief caused by the death of her son. Such a subtle and effective compositional device is even more remarkable when we remind ourselves that Michelangelo was only 24 years old when finished his Pieta. Rome.info > Michelangelo's Pieta.

The La Pietà (1499) is a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture by Michelangelo in St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. It is the first of a number of works of the same theme by the artist. The statue was commissioned for the French cardinal Jean de Billheres, who was a representative in Rome. The statue was made for the cardinal's funeral monument, but was moved to its current location, the first chapel on the right as one enters the basilica, in the 18th century. This famous work of art depicts the body of Jesus on the lap of his mother Mary after the Crucifixion. The theme is of Northern origin, popular by that time in France but not yet in Italy. Michelangelo's interpretation of the Pietà is unique to the precedents. It is an important work as it balances the Renaissance ideals of classical beauty with naturalism. The statue is one of the most highly finished works by Michelangelo. (wikipedia)

St Peters Basilica

Port St Johns

2009-05-09T05:21:00.001-07:00

Jewel of the Wild Coast

The rugged Wild Coast stretches for 250km from the Kei River to the Mtamvuna River at Kwazulu Natal and has a sub-tropical climate with humid summers and mild winters. The region has an almost sub-tropical climate with lush vegetation ranging from dune forests which give way to dense forests and, further inland, become grassland. Sandstone is predominantly found to the north of Port St Johns, whilst to the south there is the Karoo System. Precipitous cliffs and narrow gorges are a feature of the Egosa Fault which runs parallel to the coast at Port St Johns and has resulted in the formation of spectacular waterfalls such as the 146m-high Magwa Falls and the Waterfall Bluff where the Mkozi River plummets 60m directly into the sea (there are only two such waterfalls Worldwide).

Map of Magwa Falls
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Click here for a Magwa Falls Photo and a detailed PORT ST JOHNS MAP

Port St Johns is located approximately midway between Durban and East London on the Wild Coast of South Africa, a 250-km stretch of unspoilt coastline between the Mtmvuna River in the North and the southern Kei River. There are various theories as to the origin of its name, some believing it to be related to an imaginary image of St John on the left cliff beside the river, others stating that a Portuguese vessel had passed there on 24th June (St Johns Day) or that it was believed to be the site where the Sao Joao sank in 1552. Historians also believe that Port St Johns may have been the site of the second European landing when the Nossa Senhora de Belem was grounded at the site of the current Outspan Inn in 1635. Other famous shipwrecks along this treacherous coastline include the Grosvenor (1782), Waratah (1912) and even modern day casualties such as the Aster (1999) and the BBC China (2004).

The town is situated on the banks of the Umzimvubu (Mzimvubu) River, which literally means "home of the hippo" and has its source in the Lesotho Mountains. Originally an area some 10km distant from the rivermouth had been cultivated to supply passing naval vessels with fresh produce and by the 1880's the town was established. Due to the shallowing of the river it has not served as a port since 1940 but developed into a popular tourist destination. After the region was incorporated into the independent Transkei in 1976 it started declining and has not yet fully recovered, although there is ongoing improvement in developing the region since its re-incorporation into South Africa in 1994. Many South-African statesmen have their roots in the Transkei, including Nelson Mandela who is from the Thembu-tribe and a direct descendant of King Ngubengcuka. According to custom the Royal heir is selected from the "Great (Right Hand) House" and the "Ixiba" or Left Hand House from which Mr Mandela is descended, served to council the rulers.

For Sardine Run footage visit Earth Touch

Where to stay

Umzimvubu Retreat

Tel: +27 (47) 564 1741 Fax: +27 (47) 564 1310 Web: homepage

The Outspan Inn

Tel: +27 (47) 564 1057 Fax: +27 (47) 564 1057 Web: homepage

Amapondo

Tel: +27 (47) 564 1344 Fax: +27 (47) 564 8280 Web: homepage

iNtaba River Lodge

Tel: +27 (47) 564 1707 Fax: +27 (32) 941 5572 Web: homepage

Sunlof

Tel: +27 (47) 564 1098 Fax: +27 (47) 564 1402 Web: homepage

Cremorne Estate

Tel: +27 (47) 564 1110 Fax: +27 (47) 564 1113 Web: homepage

Sun & surf - a city for all seasons!

2009-05-09T04:05:00.001-07:00

Durban, also known as eThekwini in Zulu, is the gateway to the Drakensberg and Zululand and one of the most dynamic South African cities. This multicultural metropolis combines culture, entertainment and nature with a sub-tropical climate and rich heritage which ensures that its reputation as a prime holiday destination and the top beach resort in South Africa remains unrivalled.

History:

Discovered on Christmas Day (1497) by the Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama and named Rio de Natal (Christmas River), this region has a rich history of pirates, slave traders, shipwrecks and Zulu warriors. In 1823 the first settlers from the Cape arrived and by 1844 Britain annexed Natal, prompting a steady influx of Europeans who, seeing the potential for sugar cane, obtained a workforce from India. The descendants of these Indian labourers, Zulus from the Nguni tribe and Europeans of English colonial extraction have formed the unique cultural mix of the region. In 1835 Durban was established as a township and named after the governor of the Cape Colony, Sir Benjamin D’Urban. 100 years later it would become a city (having become a municipality in 1854) and also a major holiday resort. Port Natal, as the harbour was initially known, was accessible only to small craft but in the late 19th century a protective sea wall was built and it has since developed into one of the biggest and busiest harbours on the African continent. South Africa ranks as one of the top five global producers of sugar and the coasts either side of Durban are lined with cane plantations, subsequently the Port of Durban processes millions of tons of cargo each year.

Orientation:

The Bay itself is virtually landlocked by the Bluff in the south and the Point in the north. South of the CBD you will encounter the bustling Indian community, to the north there is Berea and to the west are the suburbs of Kloof, Hillcrest and Westville as well as the Valley of a Thousand Hills, which is a mere 30 minutes drive inland from Durban via the N3 and is the setting for two of the most popular sporting events in South Africa, the annual Dusi Canoe Marathon and the well-known Comrades Marathon. There are also opportunities to visit authentic Zulu villages, view traditional dances, experience African cooking and gain an insight into crafts such as spear-making, beading and thatching. A visit to the Phezulu Safari Park is highly recommended. The southern shores are divided into the Sunshine Coast which stretches from Amanzimtoti (25km south of Durban) to Mtwalume and the Hibiscus Coast, which stretches from Hibberdene (97km from Durban) to Port Edward and includes a number of excellent golf courses. To the north is the 90km long Dolphin Coast which stretches from Umhlanga Rocks (18km north of Durban) to the Tugela River. Recommended itineraries include Dundee for exploring historical battlefields, Margate for its superb beaches and Howick to view the Falls and discover the Natal Midlands. Umdloti, Ballito and the Shaka’s Rock area (approximately 52km from Durban) are also well-worth exploring.

[More...]

European hotels more expensive for Britons

2009-05-09T03:53:00.001-07:00

The Telegraph reports that, in comparison to May 2008, there has been a marked increase in hotel prices for Britons visiting the Continent.

The weakness of the pound has been blamed for the sharp rise in average room rates across Europe's most popular cities. It has fallen by 13 per cent against the euro (from €1.27 to €1.12) since May last year. But according to a monthly hotel price index compiled by Trivago, an online comparison website, the rates British travellers are quoted have increased far beyond these currency fluctuations.

Compared with May last year, average nightly rates this month have increased by £60 in Venice, £54 in Geneva and £47 in Nice. Rates in Frankfurt, Cannes, Rome and Munich have all risen by a third over the same period. The index, which is based on 40,000 daily price inquiries for overnight stays, is one of the travel industry's most comprehensive price monitors. Overall, the price of a stay in a double room in Europe's 50 most popular cities will cost an average of £107 this month – 15 per cent more than in May 2008.

There has been a marked decline in the number of British visitors to the Continent this year. Eurostar, which has enjoyed months of successive growth following its move across London from Waterloo to St Pancras, reported recently that passenger numbers fell by 11.5 per cent between January and March, to 1.92 million, compared with the same period last year. In March, the tour operator Inghams cancelled its entire summer city breaks programme owing to lack of demand. This week Xcapewithus, which sells accommodation, went into administration, affecting up to 10,000 British holidaymakers. The Majorca-based company blamed currency fluctuations – particularly the high cost of the euro.

Source: European hotels cost Britons 50 per cent more - Telegraph.

Top 10 Museums in Europe

2009-05-09T03:39:00.001-07:00

www.trivago.co.uk, the consumer site for travel information, has investigated the current most popular museums in Europe. The results are based on the most viewed museums on trivago in January 2009.

1. Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, London Madame Tussauds first opened its doors in London over 200 years ago on Baker Street, but moved to Marylebone Road in 1884. There are now a total of eight Madame Tussauds wax museums located around the world and despite its age, the London location still draws in the crowds and is the top museum on trivago. From royalty to rock stars, visitors can see a bit of everything and 2009 additions to the collection include, Barack Obama who was unveiled on the 15th January and racing superstar Lewis Hamilton.

2. Louvre, Paris The Louvre museum is located in the Louvre Palace which was originally a fortress in the 12th century. The Louvre is one of the largest museums in the world (210,000 square metres) and is the world's most visited art museum. It exemplifies traditional French architecture from the Renaissance, and has 35,000 works of art, displayed in over 60,000 square metres of exhibition space.

3. The British Museum, London The British Museum is famous around the world for its vast archeological and antiques collection. In 94 galleries there are more than seven million objects from every continent. Visitors can find treasures such as the Parthenon Marbles, the Rosetta Stone, as well as Egyptian mummies. Since the new millennium the museum also includes the Queen Elizabeth II Great Court, the largest covered square in Europe.

4. Museo Nacional del Prado, Madrid Museo del Prado is one of the oldest museums in Europe, built in 1819. The museum has one of the finest collections of European Art; highlights of the collections are the Spanish masters, Velázquez, Goya and El Greco, Italian artists such as Rafael or Titian, and the Flemish artist Rubens. It is one of the most frequented sites in Madrid.

5. The London Dungeon, London At the London Dungeon Museum you can see the dark site of London. The dungeon opened in 1976 and now more than 40 of the most horrific chapters in history are depicted. There are old classics, such as the recreation of the Jack the Ripper murders as well as a new Sweeney Todd attraction.

6. Miniature Wonderland, Hamburg The Miniature Wonderland in Hamburg is the largest model railway in the world. The museum is located in Hamburg’s Speicherstadt (the historic warehouse district in the harbour) and is one of Germany’s top tourist attractions. The museum is divided into seven different sections, which show - with great attention to detail - miniature versions of the German areas Harz, Hamburg and Knuffigen (a fictitious city), as well as, America, Scandinavia and Switzerland.

7. Anne Frank Museum, Amsterdam The Anne Frank museum is the former hiding place of probably the most famous Jewish family of the Second World War. During the war Anne Frank wrote a diary in the Secret Annex of the house which was later published. In 2008 almost 1 million people visited the old house, on the “Prinsengracht”, to see where Anne Frank hid for over two years.

8. Galleria degli Uffizi, Florence The Uffizi Gallery has an average of 1.7 million visitors per year and has a collection of the most important masterpieces from the medieval age to the Italian Renaissance. 1,700 paintings, 300 sculptures and hundreds of other pieces are distributed in more than 45 rooms. The museum, located in Piazza della Signoria in Florence, was founded in the mid 1500s by the Medici family. Some of the most famous paintings include, “The Adoration of the Magi”, “Primavera”, and “The Birth of Venus” by Botticelli.

9. Sex Museum, Amsterdam Amsterdam’s notorious sex museum is located on the Damrak, one of the main streets in the heart of the Dutch city. The “Venustempel” houses a collection of erotic paintings, sculptures and artifacts. The sex museum expresses the liberality in The Netherlands and takes its visitors on a journey through the history of sex from classical antiquity to this day.

10. Centre Georges Pompidou, Paris The idea for the Centre Pompidou was thought up by the French president Georges Pompidou and was only completed after his term in office in 1977. The design of the museum is influenced by 70s architects Piano and Rogers. In the Centre Pompidou visitors will find a collection of modern art from the 20th century, additionally there is a public library and the Institute of Music and Acoustic Research. Important temporary exhibitions from the last years include, “Dali” (1980), “Kandinsky” (1984), “Matisse” (1993), “Joseph Beuys” (1994) and “Francis Bacon” (1996).

Freaky in Philly... a visit to the Mütter Museum

2009-05-09T03:22:00.001-07:00

The Mütter Museum features medical oddities from the mid 19th-century and its unforgettable (or should that be "unsettling"?) exhibits include thousands of objects related to medical science (or, rather, the lack thereof in the Victorian-era). Besides a range of anatomical and pathological specimens, models and instruments, there is also an archive of medical photographs.

Established by Thomas Dent Mütter in 1856, the Museum was intended to display medical rarities. Today its collections contain some 20,000 human specimens and medical instruments from the 19th century to the present. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by the Hyrtal Skull Collection: 139 human skulls arranged in a cabinet. Each skull is labeled as to where it came from and what happened to its previous owner. The skulls depict physical variations among ethnic groups of Central and Eastern Europe. Remember the famous Siamese Twins, Chang and Eng Bunker? They were and probably still are featured in the Guinness Book of World Records. The twins died in 1874, after marrying and fathering 21 children between them. Their connected livers, a plaster cast of their torsos, and a chair built to accommodate the twins are on display at the Museum. The largest human skeleton on display can be seen here -- the bones of a 7-foot-6 giant from Kentucky. The Secret Tumor of Grover Cleveland is revealed (quite literally) as are the bladder stones of Chief Justice John Marshall. The Eye Wall of Shame is a display of wax models of assorted eye injuries, such as a burned eye, an eye with a toothpick protruding from the retina, and other maladies seldom seen. Other wax models (and if you were not told they were wax you would not suspect it) feature a variety of lesions, diseases, hydrocephalic heads, and other rare pathologies. There is an exhumed body of an obese woman whose fat condensed down into soap, and a few other bodies that are opened up for inside viewing. Quite old, the organs are dried out, but you get the idea. Note, these are not wax models, these are the real thing. Most of the exhibits are, and this fact certainly adds to the . . . excitement? of a visit. There is much much more than what is written here. Probably the most unsettling exhibits are the remains of an unfortunate fellow whose skeleton began to develop outside his body and the grossly enlarged human colon -- 27 feet long and 8 feet in circumference. Then there are the many medical instruments which would seem more at home in a dungeon than a doctor's office. Source: Mutter Museum - Are We There Yet?.

19 SOUTH TWENTY-SECOND STREET, PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103-3097 | PHONE 215-563-3737 | FAX 215-575-3499

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Short Film

Barrel Hotel, in Stavoren

Unusual, Weird & Bizarre Hotels

2009-05-09T03:20:00.001-07:00

Ever got tired of the usual, humdrum hotel options and wished for something unusual & extraordinary on vacation? The options have run amok and now you have the choice to spend your nights in a drainpipe, a school, underwater, in a luxury treehouse and much more...

Harlingen is located at the Wadden Sea in the Netherland and is putting its naval traditions to good use ... visitors have the option to sleep aboard a lifeboat which was fully operational until 1979, spend the night in the lighthouse or have a romantic break far above it all in a harbour crane.

Going to Brazil?

Located 35 miles from Manuas, the Ariaú Amazon Towers offers accommodation in the treetops, affording visitors the opportunity to enjoy nature without disturbing the ecology. According to the New York Times the Ariaú Amazon Towers is "one of the oldest and by far the largest of the jungle lodges, it has been visited by celebrities like Bill Gates and the King and Queen of Spain. Responding to the international boom in ecological and adventure tourism, lodgings have sprung up all over the region in the past four or five years. Travelers with a yen for the exotic and a tolerance for the unpredictable can now book a stay in the jungle with an expectation of, if not luxury, then at least a reasonable degree of comfort" Kerela, India also offers treetop accommodations which "come complete with running water in private baths, telephones, and if you're feeling extra adventurous - access to a hanging bridge" For the budget-traveler, a night in an Australian jail might be just the thing. No, I am not recommending that you get arrested, but rather that you book into Mount Gambier Jail

South Africa has its own (supposedly haunted) prison backpackers in Grahamstown, so if you're in the region do try out the Old Gaol which dates from 1840. Too posh for prison? Then how about splashing-out and taking a dive at one of the undersea resorts? One option is the Jules’ Undersea Lodge in Florida, another is to head out to Fiji and stay at the Poseidon Resort

You can also try out The Tower at Hippo Point Private Estate and Wildlife Sanctuary (Lake Naivasha, Kenya); spend a night "inside the World's Biggest Beagle" at the Dog Bark Park Inn or go underground in Sweden at the Sala Silvermine. Woodlyn Park in Waitomo, New Zealand and the Winvian in Litchfield Hills, Connecticut both offer a range of unusual accommodations. Other alternatives to explore include the ElquiDomos Astro Lodge in Chile; the rice barges at the Imperial Boat House in Koh Samui and the Capsule Inn Akihabara in Tokyo. Of course, if you're in Cappadocia, the Gamirasu Cave Hotel is certainly unusual!

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