Rates through spring at this 5 diamond resort start at just $139.99 per night .  The resort which is located within the World Golf  Village and within walking distance of the World Golf Hall of Fame, offers play on two championship golf courses and an 18 hole putting course.  The resort also offers guests a complimentary shuttle to the Serenata Beach Club at Ponte Verda Beach where guests can enjoy it’s magnificent coastal setting.  For a bit of shopping there is also a complimentary guest shuttle to downtown St. Augustine.

Sounds like a great chance to get it all on your next Florida vacation!

The whole reason for buying a tablet device is to ensure that we can keep our computing interests right at hand, no matter where we go.

What happens however when you get there, can be a notoriously costly experience if you’re looking to keep browsing the web, carry out your social networking chores or catch up with emails.

Traditionally, anyone going overseas has had to face the fact that using mobile networks abroad can be costly. Voice calls aren’t so bad, but as soon as you want to use data, which is essentially what the internet and email is all about, then you can be looking at potentially big charges and major bills being accrued. Now though, things have become slightly better, within the European Union – Europe – with a maximum pricing scale being implemented. This means that roaming bills have a cap there of 50 Euros, although you should check individual providers to be sure how they interpret these new rules and regulations.

On the cheap

If you’re headed over there and really want to stay on the right side of scary overheads, look into buying a SIM card when you arrive. Most phones these days can accept a different kind of card, although if you’re going for a protracted stay it may even pay to buy yourself a cheap handset locally too. Similarly, a multi-SIM dongle can be a good idea if you want to use a laptop as well as your tablet. But if you’re just looking to stay connected with the tablet itself then explore the local SIM options for that too.

Of course, one of the best ways to skirt round all of the costs involved with going mobile with your tablet while abroad can be to use wireless. Europe now has fantastic networks of wireless hotspots, and there is also free Wi-Fi in a lot of places such as traditional pubs, bars and restaurants. You may have to buy a drink or a light snack in exchange for the password in some cases, but you’ll soon be connected to a faster and more reliable network than the mobile one.

Safe and secure?

Granted, many of these wireless networks aren’t secure, but the best way around that is to avoid doing anything sensitive such as checking banks accounts when you’re in the public domain. Locations such as hotels and airports usually have wireless too, but many of these places actually charge. You can find out about free wireless locations before you go, which will save time and money when you get there.

The same goes for avoiding too many downloads, so stock up on your tablet content before you go and that way, if you’re only focusing on light emailing, a bit of social networking and browsing the odd web page or two then you’ll be spending a lot less instantly. Then, when you come into contact with another Wi-Fi outlet it’s possible to do all of your bigger file management and online chores without the need to worry about the cost implications.

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About the Author: This post was contributed by Rob Clymo, who writes for Broadband Genie, the online consumer portal where you can click for information on the best tablet PC and compare the latest mobile broadband devices to keep you connected on your travels.
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With its lavish architecture, nightlife and peerless attractions, the boredom factor might seem impossible but how many times can you scale the Sagrada Família without wondering what lies beyond the city’s borders? Courtesy of a great public transport network and a plethora of hire car companies to choose from, there are numerous escape routes to a series of wonderful destinations across Catalonia to explore on Barcelona holidays.

Situated in the north-westerly reaches of Spain, the Catalan region is one of the most attractive in the Iberian Peninsula. With its pine forested mountains, national parks, beaches and romantic villages, there is a remarkable diversity to the region and provides a distinctive regional perspective on an otherwise cosmopolitan world city.

Vibrant Sitges

One of the most attractive beaches in the region is Sitges, which is less than 45 minutes by train from Barcelona city centre. With its artistic heritage, party atmosphere and open, relaxed scene, Sitges is certainly not a conservative Spanish town. The town is home a flamboyant street carnival, international film festival and in keeping with its gay friendly atmosphere, there is an annual Pride march, where visitors can be forgiven for thinking they’ve arrived in a Catalan clone of Brighton. With the beautiful turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea providing the town with a lush cocktail setting, visitors will be delighted discovering the yet unknown pleasures of Sitges.

Medieval surroundings

In contrast to the open hedonism of Sitges is a daytrip to Caldes de Montbui, which is situated in the upper valley of the Caldes River. An easy thirty kilometre trip from Barcelona, the historic Spa town is famous for hot thermal springs and deeply relaxing atmosphere. Visitors going to Barcelona in 2012 will definitely want to return home with fresh skin and a day trip to Caldes de Montbui will make everyone appear ten years younger. At least while the effects last.  The hot springs of the town have been exploited since Roman times, and the remnants of the Roman baths and other Roman buildings can still be seen on a good day. The town retains most of its medieval fortifications including the local prison (Torre de la Presó), which are remarkably well preserved. Definitely a day trip for heritage lovers, the town’s historical appeal focuses upon the hermitage of la Mare de Déu del Remei, which dates all the way back to the sixteenth century.

Another historic offering in Catalonia is the medieval town Girona, which is a 90 minute train journey from Barcelona. Girona is widely considered to be one of the beautiful towns in Catalonia. Dominated by medieval buildings and reminiscences of the Roman, Arab and Jewish cultures, the city is a joy to behold on a summer’s day. Due to its magnificent location, day trippers from Barcelona will be able to enjoy trekking excursions in the nearby Prynees Mountains or relax on the beach in the Costa Brava. Famous for its regional dishes and flair for gastronomy, no one goes thirsty for culture, food or activities when they depart Barcelona for a wander around Girona.

The birthplace of Salvador Dali

Arguably the most popular daytrip from Barcelona is a train journey to Figueres, which is the birthplace of surrealist artist Salvador Dali. Forming part of a pilgrimage, visitors travel in expectation of entering the Dalí Theatre-Museum, which is the largest surrealistic object in the world. The modern museum occupies the former Municipal Theatre, a 19th century construction that was destroyed at the end of the Spanish Civil War. On the ashes of its ruins, Dalí decided to create his memoir. The museum contains the broadest range of works spanning the artistic career of Salvador Dalí (1904-1989), from his earliest artistic experiences and his surrealist creations down to the works of the last years of his life. Questions will be asked if you arrive in Barcelona and don’t make a daytrip to Figueres because this is one of the greatest and most celebrated art museums in the world.

The home of Cava

Finally one of the most understated delights of short breaks to Barcelona is the opportunity to explore the region’s beautiful vineyards. The Spanish wine region of Penedès is a short train or car journey south of Barcelona and offers visitors the chance to enjoy some fascinating wine tours.  The area is renowned as home to Cava, Spanish champagne, but also produces outstanding white wines and good quality reds. The Penedes region is an ideal destination for full day wine excursions to the region with visits to the vineyards of wine and cava producers. With so much gorgeous wine and cava to sample, visitors are advised to take public transport to the district. A daytrip to Penedès most definitely forms part of the quintessential Barcelona experience. The city is truly blessed to be surrounded by vineyards, art pilgrimages, mountains and historic medieval towns that haven’t changed for centuries. Catalonia is thus one of the most beautiful regions in Western Europe and represents a wonderful place to explore when taking an extended break in the culture capital of Barcelona.

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About the Author:   D. Agnew is a member of the easyJet holidays travel writers team.
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It’s hard to overstate the beauty of the Hawaiian Islands; their palm-fringed beaches and vivid blue seas are some of the nicest in the world, offering residents and visitors alike countless opportunities for fun in the sun. The 50th state is known for lush tropical jungles, fiery volcanoes, cascading waterfalls and excellent snorkeling and diving sites. In short, Hawaii has a lot to offer visitors – but many tourists never get the opportunity to experience it all.

Waterfalls of Hawaii

Thanks to its tropical Pacific climate and mountainous composition, scenic waterfalls abound in the state of Hawaii; in fact, many are even visible from popular drives, such as along Maui’s Road to Hana. A number of the most spectacular waterfalls, however, require more effort to reach and it’s often this very remoteness that, in fact, lends to their overall beauty and tableau. One of my personal favorites is the stunning 400-foot Waimoku Falls in Maui, which lies at the end of a gorgeous, roughly four-mile round-trip hike. This hike includes a bonus waterfall, the 185-foot Makahiku Falls, amidst a trek through an enchanting bamboo forest. There are a few areas on this trail that may present a bit of a challenge to some; for instance, hikers need to be prepared for a bit of a climb, as there is a 650-foot rise in elevation, and this trail can be quite muddy. Depending on water levels, there may be some areas where hikers have to hopscotch on rocks across the Pipiwai Stream. In the end, I’ve always found that the surrounding natural greenery and the lovely sight of Waimoku Falls itself makes this trek worth all the effort.

Authentic Molokai
Another destination that I feel gets left off too many Hawaiian itineraries is the small island of Molokai. As the most “un-touristy” of all the major islands, Molokai has no traffic lights and no large shopping malls. This is the island that I believe still best retains the feel of old Hawaii. Molokai’s Kalaupapa National Historical Park was once the site of a leper colony run by the famous humanitarian Father Damien. Today, visitors can take a memorable mule ride 1,700 feet down the side of a sea cliff to reach the village of Kalaupapa. I would highly recommend this ride, which includes 26 switchbacks and gorgeous ocean views, except for those afraid of heights. One of the more unusual attractions on Molokai is Kauleonanahoa, which is also known as “Phallic Rock” because of its resemblance to – well – its namesake. According to local legend, women who want to get pregnant should bring offerings to Kauleonanahoa and spend the night at this site. I can’t guarantee results, but it does makes for an interesting photo opportunity!

Oahu Unspoiled Scenic Sites

Because of money or time concerns, I realize that traveling to another island like Molokai isn’t always a possibility. Luckily, even Oahu – the most visited and popular of the Hawaiian Islands – has plenty of remote, scenic sites where you won’t feel like you’re part of a hoard of tourists. Halona Beach, for example, is a world-famous strip of sand and surf, yet it’s not overrun with tourists, partly because it can only be reached by a steep, rocky, downhill trek. This picturesque little cove is also known as the “From Here to Eternity Beach” because the movie’s iconic and often parodied kissing and rolling-in-the-sand scene between Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr was filmed here. I consider this a very worthwhile side trip, as it kills two birds with one stone. The Halona Blowhole, another very famous Hawaiian attraction, is also located close by. The Halona Blowhole is a natural lava tube that, when hit just right by a wave, will spout water up to 30 feet in the air. The best time to see this phenomenon is at high tide.

Dramatic Big Island Sites

If you’re looking for a beautiful, remote escape on the Big Island of Hawaii, I would recommend that travelers either kayak or find a boat to take them to Kealakekua Bay, which is only accessible by water. This lovely bay, which is also known as Captain Cook’s Bay, is an excellent spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, and it is also home to a family of friendly spinner dolphins. In addition, Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park was the site of Hikiau Heiau, a major native Hawaiian religious site.

Kauai’s Na Pali Coastline

With its lush tropical foliage, gorgeous views of azure seas, and ruggedly impressive cliffs, Kauai’s Na Pali coastline boasts some of the most spectacular landscapes in all of Hawaii. There are few roads that lead to this area and most of the Na Pali coastline is also inaccessible by sea, as its famous cliffs drop straight down into the sea. Although travelers can fly over the area by helicopter or skim its coast by boat, I would highly recommend that those who want the full Na Pali experience should hike into this pristine area instead. A two-mile hike will take a visitor to scenic Hanakapi’ai Beach. Travelers looking for a longer hike can continue on for another nine miles on the Kalalau Trail, as this beautiful trek crosses over five stunning valleys.

Kauai’s Cacoa Farm

Travelers to Hawaii can enjoy many different types of tours, including traditional excursions to macadamia nut farms, kite factories, and pineapple or coffee plantations. For something a little more unusual, stop by Kauai’s Steelgrass Farm, which features a cacao tree orchard. Hawaii is the only state in the union where the cacao pods, from which chocolate is made, will grow. The Steelgrass Chocolate Farm’s three-hour tour includes an eleven-course tasting of different samples of dark chocolate from around the world, a walk through the cacao tree orchards, and also rare black bamboo groves. Interestingly enough, Steelgrass Farm is also the site of a Bamboo Sculpture residency and a professional voice-over and music recording studio.

Although it’s not possible to hit every gorgeous site in Hawaii, I believe every visitor should take the time to check out at least one of these less touristy sites – they won’t be disappointed!

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About the Author: Aloha Tony is a real estate agent who specializes in luxury properties on Oahu. He has lived in Hawaii for decades, and currently resides there with his loving family.
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Blame it on hyperbolic forecasts of economic doom and gloom, the implosion of the media and a sense of ennui when it comes to conventional nights out, but it seems like London is looking to the past for inspiration with a new (or maybe old) wave of retro-themed events hitting the capital. The 1930s and 1940s might seem like an unlikely era to emulate when it comes to partying, but the combination of swing music, kitsch Union Jack-bedecked decor and the chance to dress up in polka dots, stockings and pin-up icon make-up provide a hip escape from the monotony of daily life and drum and bass music! From cabaret bars to big band dances and interactive cinema, here’s a brief introduction to the retro revival evoking the romantic spirit of Blitz-era London.

The Blitz Party

Smudge on some red lipstick, paint on your stocking seams and grab a man in uniform for the Blitz Party, a 1940s-themed knees-up that kicks off at set dates in the suitably atmospheric Arches in Shoreditch. Jazz bands, cabaret acts and eye-poppingly co-ordinated swing dancers set the pace amid World War II posters, sandbags and provisions tins, with Union Jacks and bunting galore streaming above the dance floor. After having steadily grown in popularity throughout 2011, the recent New Year’s Eve event was packed out with hipsters putting their best foot forward in tea dresses, victory rolls and military threads, proving that the coolest way to spend a Saturday night is now more likely to involve Glenn Miller tracks and jitterbugging than dubstep and class A’s. Other swell touches included of-the-moment drinks like the Spitfire, an outdoors hog roast and newsreel and movie montages flickering across the brick walls – our tip is to grab a gin and a friend and emulate the semi-professionals waltzing across the floor. You’ll most likely look like an un-coordinated pair of toddlers spinning about, but letting go and getting in the mood (as Mr. Miller himself would have it) is what the Blitz Party is all about!

The next Blitz Party event takes place on Saturday 28th January, with tickets priced at £20 each.

Secret Cinema

What started out as a niche idea has now grown into a huge production spanning almost two months, with a massive cast and thousands turning up to participate in interactive screenings of movie classics. The unpredictable nature of Secret Cinema means that you could well end up in the future rather than the past, but the last few efforts from the SC team have centered around black and white cult favorites like The Red Shoes and The Battle of Algiers. Keeping the main event shrouded in secrecy until the reels start rolling, ticket-holders instead receive drips of information through mystic missives with only a few 0bscure clues to work from. Perhaps one of the most impressive elements of Secret Cinema is the covert collaboration between those who have been to keep it a surprise, and I’m certainly not going to be the one to lift the veil – suffice to say that the current production involved getting dressed up in 1940s gear, exploring an incredible 5 floor building with meticulous sets and actors merging in with the nervous crowds, and delving into a hidden world of murder, double-bluffing and smuggling. After getting chatted up by a Soviet officer, trading bottles with waitresses and singing happy birthday to a bemused lecture room within the first 15 minutes, I can safely say it’s one of the more unusual and memorable ways I’ve spent a Saturday night in recent months. One thing to remember is to throw yourself into the confusion, invent an alter ego (or three) and talk to everyone you bump into – spend the night at the bar and you’ve missed the point entirely!

Secret Cinema runs until the end of January 2012. Tickets are £35 each or £25 concessions.

Cellar Door

A sense of the clandestine and risqué permeates the atmosphere at Cellar Door, a tiny cabaret bar hidden near the Aldwych Theatre in the heart of the West End. Situated beneath the bustling pavements of Theatreland, Cellar Door used to be an infamous gentlemens’ public toilet reputedly frequented by Wilde, Gielgud and Orton, and whilst the interior has now been suitably jazzed up with mirrored walls, a stellar cocktail bar and a series of glamorous cabaret singers and burlesque dancers, it retains a theatrical and uninhibited ambience that makes you feel like you’ve stepped from 2010′s London into 1930′s Berlin in the blink of a false eyelash. Vintage dress is not compulsory but it will help you get into the swing of things, as the ‘Fallen Angel’ performers belt out stage and old-school classics whilst pawing unsuspecting customers and pin-up burlesque dancers pep up the evening with a shower of sequins and feathers. Audience participation and singalongs are almost mandatory, so be prepared to come out of your shell! Old fashioned glamour aside, the bar is arguably one of the best in the city – choose from spirits classed as a Von Teese, Page or Monroe on an imaginative cocktail list that makes deciding a tricky process. I recommend the quirky Breakfast Martini (gin, marmalade, Cointreau and lemon juice), sipped from an idosyncratic china teacup and saucer.

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About The Author:  Olivia Squire is a London-based writer who currently writes for TubeHotels.com, a price comparison site for hotels in London, and in particular hotels near tube stations.
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So this year, rather than rushing to get that perfect reservation, consider planning a little road trip down the California coast, complete with romantic playlists for your MP3 (the modern mix tape) and stops that include rose petals on the bed and chilled champagne.  Here are a few tips to plan a trip your honey is sure to love.

At this time of year you’ll definitely want to avoid the cold and stormy northern roads, so fun in the sun on California’s southern coastline is a great way to go, and a cruise down the Pacific Coast Highway (1) starting in San Francisco and ending in San Diego is just the ticket for a relaxing and romantic road trip.

Start your adventure in San Francisco by renting a convertible.  Does it get any better than touring the coast with the top down?  Then pick up some sourdough bread and a few chocolates in Ghirardelli Square and take a punt out on the pond at the Exploratorium.  Spend a leisurely day picnicking at Golden Gate Park, riding the trolley, sampling fresh fortune cookies at Golden Gate Fortune Cookies in China Town (try the almond cookies, too), and then spend the night in Union Square (where a bevy of inexpensive establishments look down on the bustling titular square).

In the morning, head around the corner for some amazing breakfast at Dottie’s True Blue Café; the lines get long later in the morning, so go early!  Then hit the road, stopping in Monterey for a stretch and a snack at vegan-friendly Café Lumiere (try the Chai) before continuing on to the quaint town of Cambria for a stay at El Colibri Hotel and Spa (set up spa appointments ahead of time if possible).  You’re just a few miles from the historic Hearst Castle, so spend the day taking tours to see how old Hollywood lived and played (paper-man Hearst was famous for his exclusive parties).  Then tour the town on foot (it’s just a couple of blocks) stopping at kitschy antique stores and art galleries galore.  Finish off the evening with dinner at the Black Cat Bistro (reservations advisable) – the Rabbit Liver Pate is a must, and ask for a local wine pairing from one of the many area vineyards.

The next morning you’ll continue south, with a stop for lunch at Nobu in Malibu for some world-famous sushi (and practically guaranteed celebrity sightings).  Or if you like your seafood cooked, try Paradise Cove Beach Café for some tasty fried calamari and tables on the sand.   Continue on to Venice Beach for some fun and funky shopping on the boardwalk and a stay at the Venice Breeze Suites, an ocean-side hotel that has swanky, modern rooms with amazing ocean views (starting at $265/night).

Wake up to some Intelligentsia (coffee, that is…the locals swear by it) and you’re off on the last leg of your journey (San Diego, here you come!).  A couple of days in “America’s Finest City” simply won’t be enough to catch everything, but if you want to hit the highlights try a tour of Balboa Park (thanks to sunny weather you might even see a few roses), hit the San Diego Zoo (peacocks greet you at the entrance and it only gets better from there), hit the trendy shops at the Wharf, and head to the Gaslamp District in the evening for some fantastic food and drinks.  And don’t forget to book a boat tour – dolphins and whales are prevalent at this time of year and a little hand-holding while you listen to a whale song will make for the perfect finish to this indelible romantic road trip.

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About The Author:  Evan Fischer is a contributing writer for Used GMC Engines where GMC engines are shipped nationwide every day
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One up-and-coming destination is Puglia – often referred to as the next Tuscany or Italy’s biggest secret. Puglia is situated at Italy’s south-easternmost region (known to many of us as the heel of the boot) and is a great destination for an amorous escape.  To begin with Puglia is only a short flight from the UK so you won’t start off your romantic getaway with jetlag and your partner won’t witness you stepping haggard and bleary eyed off the plan

Beautiful Beaches…
Puglia has all you could wish for on the beach front with a varied coastline incorporating rocky beaches, white cliffs, beaches reached through greenery and forests, small town sandy bay beaches and of course large stretches of Caribbean-esque sandy beaches.  All sit next to the clear blue-turquoise sea and many of the beaches have been awarded Blue Flag status – an internationally recognized guarantee of the quality of the sea water. In the summer months the sea warms up and the gentle climate allows for comfortable swimming in the sea until October.

Fabulous Food…
One of the best parts of any holiday is splashing out and eating exciting new dishes and after all, food is the language of love! And Italy has some of the finest food in the world. Puglia produces around 40% of Italy’s olive oil and a large proportion of its wine. It is largely an agricultural region – often called the garden of Italy – so wherever you go you will find fresh local produce such as artichokes, rocket, tomatoes, fava beans, courgettes, fennel, peppers, beef and lamb.

…And you always need great wine to accompany the food
A little known fact is that Puglia produces more wine than Australia. Principal wine towns in Puglia include Lecce, Martina Franca and Manduria. If you sample enough, there’s a good chance you will find some new favourite wines, as wineries from the north of Italy, and even America, are beginning to see the potential of Puglia and starting to invest heavily.

Wonderful Weather…
Puglia has a wonderful climate, with an average 300 days of sunshine per year. If you are going in the hottest months of the year (May-September) there is minimal humidity. The temperature is fairly constant between the coast and the inland areas, rising to around 30°C (86 F) in July and August and only dropping out of the 20s (high 60s) at the beginning of December.

Quirky (yet luxurious) accommodation
While many people may prefer to stay in an all-inclusive hotel to enjoy room service, villas give a lot more privacy, which is much more romantic.  There’s a great selection of luxury villas in Puglia, where you can enjoy as much privacy as you wish, including your own private pool.  But if you feel things like cooking and washing up will spoil the romance, you can always hire a private cook to come in, do their thing then vanish.

If you are looking for something a little more quirky, how about looking at the range of trulli that are available? Trulli, mysterious stone buildings with conical roofs, are dotted all over the region, making Puglia look like a fairy-tale land peppered with mini castles. No one really knows how trulli came about, everyone has a theory (this is Italy after all), but they are unique to Puglia and so definitely an option to look into if the region has whet your appetite.  While the term trulli refers to a house that’s internal space is covered by a dry stone corbelled or keystone vault, many trulli have been made into luxury houses that can be rented out.

Puglia ticks the key romance boxes; plentiful beaches, great food, superb wine, beautiful weather and luxurious accommodation. On top of this, it is an easy place to stay – the locals are friendly and you can dabble in Italian but will have no problems speaking English. So if you are looking for a romantic retreat which still oozes luxury, Puglia should definitely be on the list.
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About The Author:  Think Puglia is the provider of beautiful and desirable Puglia villas, right in the heel of Italy on the Salento peninsula. All of the company’s hand-picked gems come with the option of having cooks and cleaners, and guests can pick from fabulous beachfront villas, luxury masserie and rustic-chic trulli in the hills. Visit www.thinksicily.co.uk for more information.
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Photo Credit: FlickR – #1 Andrepax, #2 Pizzodisevo, #3 VerityCridland, #4 jujuly25, #5 dcinput

I am looking forward to the many land and sea activities which abound in Aruba – most of which are administered to by the numerous multi-cultural inhabitants. Dutch is the primary language of the island, Aruba having been founded in 1636 by  the Netherlands, but Papiamento, the original language of the Amerindian people, as well as Spanish and English are also spoken.

Our destination  in Aruba is Caribbean Palm Resort.  Because the island does not list street names, it takes us awhile to locate the resort.  We are not disappointed. A tropical haven with palm trees and two swimming pools (one perfect for laps),an outdoor bar (naturally),  grills and pool chaises greet us. 

On Monday we snorkel at Moomba Beach.  Our pirate ship takes us to three different locations for snorkeling – one with the crusty hulk of a WW II sunken ship.  The crew also supplies us with alcoholic libations throughout this excursion…oh! those pina coladas!  There is nothing like sipping on a pina among sea happy snorklers.  The island music never stops as “sailors” plunge into the bay, some of them from a rope swing.  Did I mention the barbecue?  Tasty ribs, chicken, cornbread and potato salad are served to the hungry mariners. Upon returning to the hotel a dip in the pool is mandatory.

On the following day Ed arranges for us to take a jeep safari around the island.  If you are over 23 years of age I do not recommend this trip for you.  In our ramshackle, jeep (no seat belts for Adriana and Kari) we travel up and down the coast of Aruba through ditches and potholes, over rocky crags and formations at a highly accelerated speed. It is difficult to enjoy any sights due to our high speed over the rocky terrain and the lack of information from our “guide”. An interesting stop however is Alta Vista Chapel.  Tiny and serene, it is built on sacred Indian burial grounds and provides a peaceful oasis for those hardy enough to endure the trip over the terrain. We also visit Bushinbara gold mine now in ruins. In Arikok National Park with its granite and limestone formations some of the potholes and drainage ditches are almost vertical. The landscape is rocky and cactus-filled with unpaved roads and windblown divi divis.  We see wild goats and donkeys but because we are going so fast  the sights are a blur. The ancient Indian caves however are quite fascinating with their ocher-colored rock drawings left behind by island natives. Fascinating too are the “graffiti” of early island settlers and adventurers, some dating as far back as 1819 with the dates written on the cave ceilings in an old world script. If you like adventure, this is the trip for you..not me, however. Lava and limestone formations are scenic, but I prefer the finale of the tour which ends at  Baby Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island with its shallow waters and closed off rock formations.  A swim is definitely in order as is “Two for One Happy Hour” back at the hotel .

The following evening we dine at Madame Janette.  This is my very favorite restaurant on the island. Situated in an old mansion  with spacious gardens and pools we of course decide to dine outdoors.  Kari and I enjoy filet mignon topped with fresh spinach, lobster medallions,sliced portobellos and hollandaise.  I love the Dutch roasted potatoes with sauteed onions and crispy bacon.  There is also creamed spinach. For Ed- It is a mixed grill of  Argentine tenderloin  served with lamb chop, foie gras and green beans in a barolo glaze.

There are many activities for young and old on the Gold Coast. They include:

Extreme sports
The Gold Coast is home to many adventurous people who love the beach. They also love extreme sports. A visitor can indulge in some daring activities whilst at the Gold Coast. Some extreme activities you can enjoy on the  Gold Coast include, bungee jumping, jet skiing, water skiing, and mountain biking.

Theme Parks
The Gold Coast is an ideal place for a family holiday. The area is home to five theme parks. They range from movie studios to water themed and animal parks. Each is easily accessible and a thrilling experience for the family.

Beach Activities
The Gold Coast is home to many of Queensland’s most spectacular beaches. Each beach is patrolled and watched by life savers. The beaches are pristine with white sands which seem to stretch to the horizon. Swimming at the beaches is generally safe if all instructions, such as swimming between the flags, are followed.

Bush Walking
Many people who visit the Gold Coast remain near the beach. But there is considerable the beauty inland. The rugged mountain ranges and beautiful scenery of the south east Queensland interior is perfect for long moonlight bush walks. Camping and bush tours are also available.

Hot Air Ballooning
Hot air ballooning is a popular way to spend an afternoon on the Gold Coast. Sailing gently above the clouds looking down upon the perfect beaches is an awe inspiring sight. Hot air ballooning is romantic, inspirational and relaxing. The vistas below stretch for untold miles as does the sky above. It is a perfect mixture of sea and sky reaching for the clouds.

The Gold Coast is one of the Queensland’s most popular tourist destinations. It is particularly popular with school leavers in late November and early December each year. People who like to party regularly visit the Gold Coast. They leave with good stories to tell their friends at home. The area is also well suited for families who wish to visit theme parks or see spectacular natural scenery. The water lover is equally catered to with extreme sports and beach activities, and let’s not forget the famed surfing. Overall the Gold Coast is the perfect destination for a holiday.  For more information on Gold Coast activities, visit the Gold Coast Tourism website, VisitGoldCoast.com

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About The Author : Tom Mallet is an Australian freelance writer and journalist. He writes extensively in Australia, Canada, Europe, and the US. He’s published more than 500 articles about various topics.
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Images: VisitGoldCoast.com

Don’t look now but Cupid is making moves.

If you’re thinking of planning a romantic getaway for Valentine’s Day, you might want to consider a bed and breakfast. From complimentary champagne toasts and chocolate-dipped strawberries to couples in-room massages and breakfast in bed, these inns will help warm your heart. But, make sure to plan ahead. These inns fill up fast with amorous couples looking for an intimate adventure.

Here are some B&Bs where Cupid can be found spreading the love:

Abigail’s Hotel—Victoria, BC.
Warm up and then cool down together with the inn’s “Fire & Ice Package.” Cozy up by a crackling fire (Abigail’s hotel is one of the only hotels in Victoria with actual wood burning fireplaces) while sharing a complimentary bottle of Brute before heading to the soaker tub for a relaxing bubble bath. There’s no need to leave your room the next morning because a “Breakfast in Bed” basket will be delivered to you.
http://www.bnbfinder.com/British-Columbia/Victoria/Bed-and-Breakfast/Listing/19753/Abigails_Hotel

The Weller Haus—Bellevue, KY.
At this inn, your wish is your loved one’s command. As part of their “Enchanted Evening Romance Package” you’ll “compete” in a romantic board game for couples where the winner will have their secret wish (written down at the start of play) fulfilled. Your actions around the game board are directed by playing cards and the answers to the questions are both playful and verbal. Although only one of you can end up the champion, the time spent getting to know each other all over again makes your relationship the real winner.
http://www.bnbfinder.com/Kentucky/Bellevue/Bed-and-Breakfast/Listing/6263/Cincinnatis_Weller_Haus_Bed_and_Breakfast

Chestnut Street Inn—Sheffield, IL:
As the saying goes, the quickest way to someone’s heart is through their stomach, and Chef Monika Sudakov is prepared to get your there with a sumptuous Valentine’s Day menu. She’ll start you off with mushroom pate immediately followed by a roasted butternut squash and chestnut soup. A homemade banana and crystallized ginger sorbet will cleanse your palette for the main course of filet mignon with gorgonzola cream sauce and spinach soufflé. The epicurean meal will conclude with a maple pumpkin crème brulee.
http://www.bnbfinder.com/Illinois/Sheffield/Bed-and-Breakfast/Listing/20713/Chestnut_Street_Inn

The Platinum Pebble—West Harwich, MA:
Cape Cod in the heat of summer brings to mind busy sidewalks and boisterous crowds. Winters, while cold, are spacious and serene making the popular Massachusetts vacation spot perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day escape. Stroll hand-in-hand along the quiet, secluded beaches of the Nantucket Sound while enjoying the soothing ocean sounds. Once you’re back at the inn head to your room where you can pop open the complimentary bottle of champagne and raise a celebratory toast…to one another.
http://www.bnbfinder.com/Massachusetts/West-Harwich/Bed-and-Breakfast/Listing/22589/The_Platinum_Pebble

Cupid doesn’t play favorites. He’s targeting couples everywhere with his charm offensive. So, if you and your loved one are in need of a romantic getaway, try visiting a bed and breakfast this Valentine’s Day. The winged cherub has taken up residence and added his signature, romantic touch. Your relationship won’t be able to resist!

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About The Author:  Rich Rodriguez is the PR & Marketing Coordinator for BnBFinder.com, one of the world’s most comprehensive B&B directories. You can read more about B&Bs and travel at the BnBFinder blog. Follow along on Twitter at @BnBFinder and Facebook.
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