Five Important Tour Tips About Grand Canyon Helicopters

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Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most incredible in the entire American National Park system. But because it's also one of the biggest (over a million acres!), a lot of folks wonder about the best way to see it.

Personally, I think Grand Canyon helicopters are the best choice. It's because a chopper can cover more ground in 60 minutes than you'd see in a week from the ground. There's a lot more to it than that, though.

Here are five tour tips that everyone should be aware of before booking a Grand Canyon helicopter flight:

1. Choose your rim. This is an easy decision because it depends on your starting point. You'll do the South Rim if you're starting out from a city in AZ, like Flagstaff, Phoenix, Sedona or Scottsdale. The West Rim will be in your sights if you're starting from Vegas. No choppers fly directly to the South Rim from Vegas, and there aren't any flights between the South and West Rims.

2. Pick a morning flight. Because the air is clearer and less turbulent, morning (between 7 a.m. and noon) flights are best for tours on Grand Canyon helicopters. Clearer air means better visibility. A morning flight is especially important during summer, when afternoons come with dust and smoke from forest fires that can make the air hazy. That being said, late afternoons are my second choice - the dust and smoke in the air can make a sunset flight an amazing experience.

3. If you're checking out the West Rim, consider a landing tour. Landing tours are only available at Grand Canyon West (the West Rim), so only Vegas travelers can take one. It's because federal regulations prohibit South Rim 'copters from flying below the level of the rim and landing on the bottom. The most popular landing tour is the one that lands on the canyon's bottom and comes with a festive champagne picnic. My personal favorite is the package that lands on the bottom, includes a float trip down the Colorado, and lands at the rim top so you can experience the amazing Skywalk.

4. Before booking, check the tour company's cancellation policy. Plans change, making it important to book with a company that offers a favorable cancellation policy. The best companies will refund 100% of your money if your flight is cancelled 24 hours before takeoff. They'll also return your money if all flights are grounded by bad weather and your tour can't be rescheduled. Tour brokers don't offer that type of protection, which is one reason I tell travelers to avoid using them.

5. Book ahead. Actually, this is one of my most useful tour tips. Helicopter rides sell out fast because they're so popular. Seats are limited because the aircraft can only take six people. I suggest booking your tour at least a week in advance of the date you want (two weeks is even better). It's true that some travelers have been able to get seats the day of their flight, but this is rare. Plus, with a same-day booking you'll pay as much as 50% more and probably end up with one of the least desirable flight times.

Conclusion

Hopefully these tour tips about Grand Canyon helicopters will help as you're choosing and booking your tour. All five are things I've picked up during my own travels or while I was helping out friends, relatives and other folks.

One final thing I want to point out: Book your tour online, directly with the tour operator. You'll need to complete the entire purchase transaction on the company's online booking form in order to qualify for the super Internet discount.

Travel editor Ione Mahler is an expert on Grand Canyon helicopter tours. She recommends going here for the lowest prices on the best flights: http://www.grandcanyonhelicopters.org/deals

Article Source: Ione_Mahler

5 Top Historical Monuments in Rome

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Rome is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy. It is home to several historical monuments some of which can be seen for free while others require cards and passes. Most of these ancient monuments are located in the city's historic centre and so there are several places that you can visit in a single day. Even if you don't have time for an in-depth look, you will find walking past them an incredible experience. Over the past few years, some of these monuments have been renovated to make them more user-friendly. Here are just some of the historical monuments that you may wish to see while in Rome.

The Colosseum

This huge amphitheatre in Rome needs no introduction. Built by Emperor Vespasian in AD 80 it had seating capacity of 55,000 people and was the scene of many gladiatorial battles and animal fights. Visit the monument and you will be able to see men dressed in gladiatorial costume walk between the Colosseum and the nearby Arch of Constantine, which was built in AD 315. Ticket lines can be very long so it is advisable to book online. You can also buy a combination ticket for the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum at the nearby entrance to the Palatine Hill. This ticket is valid for two days which means that you don't have to rush through all sites in one day.

The Pantheon

The Pantheon, or the temple of all the gods, was built by Emperor Hadrian between AD 118 to 125. In the early 7th century it was converted in a church; today it houses several tombs. The Pantheon is one of the best preserved ancient Roman buildings and the entrance to this monument is free. The building is surrounded by a lively piazza where you can sit and enjoy a pleasant drink.

Roman Forum

The Roman Forum comprises several monuments and buildings including ruined temples, arches and basilicas. During the ancient Roman period, it served as the ceremonial, legal and social centre. You can get a good view of the complex from Capitoline Hill behind the museums. You would need to buy an entrance ticket.

The Capitoline Hill

Set above the Roman Forum, Capitoline Hill housed the Temple of Jupiter and was the symbolic centre of Rome. Today it houses two museums, which are the oldest public museums in the world, Palazzo dei Conservatori, with art galleries, sculptures, and frescoes, and the Palazzo Nuovo, with Greek and Roman sculptures. From here, you can enjoy some of the best views of Rome.

Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona was originally built as a stadium in the first century for athletic contests and chariot races. Today, it is dotted with luxurious cafes and also houses three lavish Baroque fountains. It is believed that the famous ice-cream dessert, tartufo, originated here and you can still try it in the cafes.

Accommodation in Rome

Rome attracts visitors the year round from those who wish to splurge and those on a budget. There is an accommodation type to meet all requirements from private Italy villas to hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses. However, it is advisable to book your rental well in advance to get the best locations and best deals.

Preety is a travel writer with Eats & retreats a modern online magazine with unique travel articles, photo galleries and a selected portfolio of holiday villas and apartments featured by Web Perspective Ltd.

Article Source: Preety_Gupta

Top 5 Things to Do in Auckland

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Known as the 'City of Sails' Auckland, located on the magnificent Waitemata Harbour, is the largest city in New Zealand. The cosmopolitan city has much to offer with world class hotels and dining, excellent shopping and a diverse bar and nightclub scene. There are also a good range of activities and attractions to suit all sorts of travellers. The surrounding surf beaches and wine districts are the icing on the cake but visitors don't need to leave the city to have a good time.

Take to the Sky

The 328 metre high Sky Tower is the tallest tower in New Zealand and boasts views of up to 80 kilometres in all directions. The tower is part of SKYCITY which hosts a collection of restaurants, cafes and bars, two hotels and the SKYCITY Casino. A trip up the tower in the glass fronted elevators to take in the spectacular views at the top is a must do for all visitors to Auckland, but for those looking for a thrill, the SkyJump or SkyWalk will really get your blood pumping. SkyWalk takes you onto a 1.2 metre wide walkway around the perimeter of the tower, 192 metres off the ground. You'll be securely harnessed and attached to overhead safety lines but the dizzying height will have your heart in your mouth. If that isn't exhilarating enough for you, the SkyJump can be compared to base jumping but attached to a wire. SkyJumpers launch themselves from the Sky Tower falling fast for around 11 seconds and are then gently lowered back to earth in the Sky City Plaza below. Although SkyJump and SkyWalk are optional, a visit to the viewing platform of the tower is a must.

Spend some time on the Water

Picturesque Auckland Harbour just lends itself to a day (or at least an hour) on the water. Whether you want to take a ferry ride, go on a dinner cruise or take a jet boat ride, the only way to truly experience the best of Auckland is to spend some time on the harbour. Whale and dolphin watching cruises run regularly out of the harbour and the knowledgeable and experienced staff offer a commentary on the most interesting features of the maritime park. Sailing adventures, fishing tours and the new Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium are some other ways to explore the local waters and sea life. If you are staying in Auckland CBD accommodation they should be able to provide information on the tours available and book and organise transfers for you.

Visit the Auckland Zoo

Only minutes from the Auckland CBD, the Auckland Zoo is set on 17 hectares of lush parkland and is home to the biggest collection of exotic and native animals in New Zealand. Twenty percent of the zoo's exhibit space is dedicated to New Zealand's unique animals, plants and culture and encompasses different environments such as the coast, the islands, the night, the high country, the forest and the wetlands in separate displays. Visitors can see a range of rare and endangered birds and animals unique to New Zealand close up and personal. The zoo offers exclusive experiences such as behind the scenes tours, safari nights, guided walks and more.

Visit the Viaduct

Have a meal at one of the award winning restaurants, check out the maxi yachts at one of the Southern Hemisphere's largest marinas, visit the Voyager Maritime Museum and learn about New Zealand's rich maritime history, or simply take a leisurely walk around the Viaduct and soak up the atmosphere. The Viaduct is a hive of activity during the day with cruises and private boats coming in and out of the marina, and at night it comes alive with sparkling lights, music and people flowing from restaurants and bars. The Viaduct is an iconic part of Auckland's culture and should be part of every visit to Auckland. There are some great hotels in Auckland located within walking distance to Viaduct harbour.

Take in Some Local Art

The recently renovated Auckland Art Gallery houses more than 15,000 artworks and regularly hosts touring exhibits. The gallery has major holdings of historic, modern and contemporary art by New Zealanders including Maoris and Pacific Islanders along with many international paintings, sculptures and prints. Entry is free along with twice daily guided tours, for those desperate to spend some money, there is a shop selling original art work, copies and a range of branded souvenirs. The Gallery Cafe serves a range of a-la-carte dishes, readymade meals and salads if you want a full meal or if you're just after a coffee and cake, there's a fantastic selection of fresh pastries and cakes to choose from.

The range of accommodation in Auckland is extensive and there is a great selection of choices from conveniently located international brand Auckland Airport hotels, to inner city boutique hotels to suit most styles of traveller.

Choice hotels has a range of hotels in Auckland including Auckland Airport hotels and Auckland CBD accommodation. For more information visit Choice Hotels New Zealand online.

Article Source: Tracey_L_Christensen

Top Five Things to Do in The Philippines

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The Philippines is a popular tourism destination for a very good reason. The incredible archipelago is made of more than 7000 islands and offers an activity option for everyone, regardless of age, lifestyle and preferences. Planning a trip to the Philippines any time soon? Here is a list of the top five activities to do while you're there.

1) Learn How to Dive

Where? Palawan

Palawan is located in the southeast part of the archipelago and will probably rank amongst the most exotic and peaceful places that you will ever get the chance to visit. Just imagine virgin rainforests, pristine beaches, rocky coves, the whitest sand and coral reefs.

Palawan is the gateway to El Nido. The resort is a world-famous diving destination because of the unbelievable underwater scenery that you will get to enjoy. Professional diving instructors will get you going, even if you have never tried diving before. Just relax, listen carefully, follow the instructions and enjoy!

2) Play Survivor

Where? The Visayas

How about some island hopping? An archipelago that consists of more than 7000 islands presents the perfect opportunity for such an experience. Naturally, you have to do it the Filipino way. To get from one island to the next, you will use a traditional boat called a "banca" (pronounced: bang-kah).

You will enjoy the immense beauty of the region by getting up early and welcoming the sun. Along the way, you may spot dolphins and other amicable marine creatures. You will cook your own lunch, swim in the clear water and enjoy the beauty of the tropical fish. Want to explore the Philippines Robinson Crusoe style? This is your chance!

3) Rekindle Your Belief in Magic

Where? Siquijor

Siquijor Island is probably the most mysterious place in the Philippines. It is called "the island of the sorcerers" for a reason. The island's population is about 70,000 people and mystic rituals are practiced there on a regular basis. There are numerous myths being told about Siquijor mysticism, witchcraft and ancient healing rituals. In hushed talks, the natives talk about the existence of witches and sorcerers living among them on the island.

Even if you have firm belief in logic and science, a trip to Siquijor would be a wonderful opportunity to explore different traditions. It may be a bit spooky as well, which will make the trip unforgettable and fun.

4) Marvel at the Past

Where? Banaue Rice Terraces

The Banaue Rice Terraces will reveal a different side of the Philippines. Most tourists are drawn to the tropical beauty and the amazing beaches but the terraces will show you how diversified and intriguing the cultural heritage of the country is. The terraces are located in northern Luzon and they have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The terraces are over 2000-year old.

Ancestors of the indigenous people carved the terraces meticulously in the local hills. To understand and explore a tiny piece of Philippine history, you should definitely head towards Ifugao Mountains and see how locals are still using the ancient terraces to this day.

5) Soak Up the Culture of the Metropolis

Where? Manila

The capital of the Philippines will give you a chance to get acquainted with the contemporary culture of the country. Manila is a huge metropolis that has its historic landmarks, as well as the third largest mall in the world. For all the shopping enthusiasts out there - Manila is the place to be. Manila is also the perfect place to experience the local cuisine because of the enormous number of high quality local restaurants.

Michael Kent is Founder and CEO of Azimo a London based technology company specialising in safe, convenient and fast Philippine online remittances at better rates than the high street banks, from the comfort of your home or office.

Please visit: http://www.azimo.com/PHL for more information

or call 0203 5820398 / 0203 2827125 for assistance

Article Source: M._Kent