Sunday, November 13, 2011

Welcome to London!!

Hey everyone its Andres again with a new destination that everyone can describe as a royal get away. London is well known for its fascinating and regal environment. London is a perfect place to go to for your upcoming winter vacations. Why not spend your christmas over at London and have that as one of your most memorable christmas moments.
Now if you do decide to spend your christmas at London then what is there to do? There are many things to do for entertainment. You can go to a London Theatre and watch one of the popular musicals playing like Chicago, Wicked, Thriller Live, The Nutcracker, and The Lion King. These are all some of the very popular choices you can make and if you wish to book some tickets or perhaps look at other choices you may visit http://visitlondon.eolts.co.uk/index.php?pg=72&genre=M.
Chicago TicketsLion King TicketswickedThriller - Live at the Lyric TheatreNutcracker
Or how about going to Ripley's Believe It or Not where they hold over 500 of the authentic, original and unbelievable exhibits like a piece of the Berlin Wall or learnign how the tall was the tallest man in history.



Other great options are the Sea Life London Aquarium and the ZSL London Zoo if you would perhaps want to go see animals. The ZSL London Zoo holds over 1000 different species. They hold a Animal Adventure where you truly get the sight, smell, and sounds of the animal kingdom. Sea Life London Aquarium is Europe's largest collections of global marine life with over a thousand marine creatures in awesome themed settings. These are perfect locations if you have children and which to spend an afternoon with them.
Clore Rainforest Lookout and Meet the BirdsLondon Aquarium
Now if you are looking for a more wild and fun night then what better than to explore London's nightlife and what it offers. You might want to take the Party Bus Nightclub Tour, which you make your way around London to four of its top nightspots in just one night for a definite fast-paced party. This tour package includes VIP entry at each of the nightclub venue, transportation from venue to venue on a double decker party bus, top art sound system playing some of the most popular tracks to keep the party mood going, with the tour it allows you and friends to visit and enjoy London's most exciting bars and nightclubs. This tour makes it the ultimate nightlife party experience and a night to never be forgotten (that is if you don't party so much that you will have a hard time remembering what happened like the guys from The Hangover).
Party Bus

At first I really didn't know London had all this offer I really thought it was just filled with royal building and people drinking tea but it has so much to offer and is a  place I would like to visit myself. There are so many different attractions to accomadate different people's taste and will surely be a great choice for destinations. Hopefully I will be able to go and experience it myself.

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Ready for a fun night out in Jalisco?!

WooHoo! Nightlife in Mexico is the choice of this week! 
When you hear nightlife in Mexico the first locations you might think are Cabo or Cancun right?
But since I will be going to the state of Jalisco, Mexico this winter break of course I will have to focus my research on this charming state. 
Not only will I be prepared and know where to go for some night out adventures but  maybe some of you guys will find your next spring break spot ;)

Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara are the cities to go to if you’re looking for a fun night out in the state of Jalisco and will be my main destinations in my upcoming trip : )

Guadalajara consists of outstanding architecture, Mariachi music, and scrumptious food but apart from all those great qualities you also have your nightclubs and bars.  People from all around Jalisco and surrounding states come here for the nightlife especially during the month of October when the fiestas are taking place. 
This city is full of diverse people and luckily there are many types of antros or nightclubs for all kinds of music genres.
Some of the more popular nightclubs or at least the ones I’ve heard being mentioned a lot are:

BOSSE

Address:  Hipodromo #2085
Agraria
Guadalajara, Jalisco Mexico
Music ranges from Rock en Espanol, Electronic, classic songs of course all mixed by the best djs around.
Heres a link with a photo album of one of the recent nights at BOSSE thanks to Estamosdentro:

VAN-GO

Also another popular nightclub
Address:  Av. D #8210 at the corner of San Jose
Colonia Seattle
Zapopan, Jalisco


After a day full of adventure in Puerto Vallarta which could include anything from swimming at the beach to zip lining you might be ready for a night of dancing. 
In this region you will find many tourist but also locals since it is a beach destination. 

Best clubs can be found in close distance of the Malecon, or Board Walk including:

THE ZOO
630 Paseo Diaz Ordaz
Colonia Centro
Malecon
Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco





EL MANDALA
EL HILO
588 Paseo Diaz Ordaz
Puerto Vallarta Jalisco 48300
And of course  you can’t forget to visit the Famous senor frog hahaha
Wow I can’t wait for a little escape to Jalisco.

Friday, October 28, 2011

I Hear Wedding Bells!

Hello all this is Jamie again from the Hawaii post. Are you looking for an absolutely perfect honeymoon location?? The island of Bora Bora is where to go! Bora Bora is located almost 200 miles northwest of Tahiti and is known to be one of the most romantic islands.


We can now get to the fun stuff. What is the perfect place to stay,what can you do in Bora Bora, and unfortunately, how much is this going to cost?
According to gotahiti.com you can have a wonderful honeymoon package.
For 6 days and 5 nights, you can enjoy the St. Regis Bora Bora "Couples Retreat" package for $4,229 a person.
This pacakge includes:
  • Air Tahiti Nui Round Trip Economy Class from Los Angeles
  • Air Tahiti Inter-island Flights
  • Free American Breakfast Buffet Included Daily on Bora Bora
  • Meeting service, including flower lei on arrival
  • Traditional farewell shell lei
  • All transfers and baggage handling
  • Tahiti Travel Planners Luggage TagsBottle of Champagne upon Arrival
  • Tropical Flower Turndown during stay
  • 50 Minutes Couple Massage at Spa Miri Miri
Is that a great deal or what!! To book your honeymoon you can follow this link: http://www.gotahiti.com/PackageDetail.aspx?Package=110&name=5_nights:_st._regis_bora_bora_"couples_retreat"#fcus



Some tips given from past visitors say that you should dress casual and comfortable. There can be chances of rain and you will most likely be in the water most of the time. During the night time, get ready for a romantic and elegant evening with gorgeous sunsets. The best place to eat is at Bloody Mary's. Watch this video to get a tour on the delicious meals.
Next on our list is what fun things can you do as a couple in Bora Bora? There are actually sooo many things you can do! You can go parasailing , hike, climb, go fishing, go on a safari, go snorkeling or scuba diving, go on a helicopter tour or even a bike tour. It is almost like, you name it, you can do it. Here are a few websites with ideas on what to do in Bora Bora.
I hope I was able to help you with your honeymoon and have a wonderful time LOVE BIRDS!
It is that time again to roll the dice for next week.....and the winner is.....a mystery location talking about the night life!

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Oh hi yo gozaimas JAPAN!

Luckily, as our last post said we have drawn Japan as the next magical destination on WanderLust.

Background on Japan/ Blogger:
       My name is Bryce Kobayashi, and I am EXCITED about telling you, the attentive listener, about Japan. Yes your probably thinking, Japan didn't they have an earthquake, and radiation is spilling all over the country, and people are dying. Although I am not currently living in Japan, from research, I have discovered that the tsunami hit Fukushima and Daiichi. It has been encouraged by "Lonely Planet" to not visit Fukushima and Daiichi or anywhere in a 50 mile radius. However, do NOT let that detract from exploring this awesome country, just avoid those parts.
Furthermore, I have visited Japan (before the tsunami) for two weeks, and everyday was like a trip to Disneyland for the first time.

The Exciting part:
When you think of traveling you probably think what new perspective can this destination offer me, or maybe I want to get away from my daily grind and explore something NEW. Well have no fear because Japan is here. Japan has can accommodate everyone.
First off, for non-Japanese speaking people you would probably want to stay around Tokyo or Kyoto, which is convenient because that is where modern technology thrives and major railways lead. While in Japan you'll find the cheapest and most efficient way to travel is by rail. Japan has a bullet train traveling at almost 200 miles an hour. The bullet train, or shin-kan-sen (sheen-con-sen), is more luxurious than your bed in the morning. Like the Harry Potter movie they have a trolly that goes up and down the aisles with goodies that would make your mouth water. The picture belowt shows the train and the pass that you have to purchase to ride the train, but if anything you have a nice souvenir.   

Tokyo:
Nike started off in Japan! Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight began manufacturing track shoes by contacting Tiger manufacturing co. in Japan and the rest his history.
It's safe to say that, one of the largest companies in the world began in Japan, therefore shopping in a forgien destination should include Japan. Tokyo has a shopping district that features many name brands, and has department stores in a building that are at least 3 or 4 floors high and run half a mile long (limited space in Japan).

Another place that is a must visit is the Tsuikiji Market. This market is the largest fish market in the world. When you go to the grocery store or the local sushi bar you get to splurge on fish shipped over the ocean and cut in front of you. At the Tsuikiji Market, you get to see and possibly taste the fish caught only 30 minutes ago, and experience quality that is indescribable in words. Maybe dollars though, because fish this fresh is not cheap. 

Kyoto:
    This city is still modern, but has hints of original Japanese culture. Here you can see more Japanese scenery like the raked pebble gardens, traditional Japanese restaurants, and the Kyoto-fu, Shinga prefecture or golden temple.

Kyoto-fu, Shinga prefecture- was built in 811 A.D. for multiple owners. The thing that makes this special is the history, but also that it is said that if you jump from the main halls veranda and survive with no injuries your wish will come true. However, the Japanese government has prohibited jumping due to too many injuries.

 Hiroshima:
The Itsukushima Shinto Shrine is a wood structure that stands on top of the water, depending on what time you visit the shrine. Japanese people believe that this is a gate way for spirits to come in and our of our world. As stated before, you have to go at a certain time to touch the shrine. The tide covers and uncovers a path to get to the shrine.
While visiting the surrounding area of the shrine, you'll notice quaint eateries and a small shopping district that you can pick up souvenirs for love ones at home or yourself.
End:
As a precaution this blog only scans the surface of Japan and the exciting things you can do there. As a preview note, Japan has vending machines on EVERY corner, and no trash cans. However, I would drop sushi on the ground and still eat it because the ground is so clean.
If your a college kid the amazing thing is Japan has vending machines with beer in them! Ramen is cheaper than cup a noodle and tastes much better.
For the adults. It is a common Japanese belief that business is war, and every business owner is willing to fight for your business. Don't be surprised if employees go out of their way to help you. And I mean run to open the door for you, run to get your a new towel, run around a track to make you feel like you did some exercise.

Travel:
Delta is now offering a round trip with hotel for 1,103.
6 night stay at ChiSun Hotel with bath accommodations (Western Style hotel)
Close to airport and walking distance to train station
Flight leaves LAX Oct 24, 2011 @ 7:05p
Arrives at LAX Oct 31, 2011 @12:45a

More information: http://www.expedia.com/pub/agent.dll?qscr=cmsh&subm=1&CMBTX_0_rgnm=TYO&dsct=&dnam=TYO&dlvl=&rtmn=&rtmx=&dcty=LAX&ddpt1=10/24/2011&drtn1=10/31/2011&tdpt1=362&trtn1=362&ffst=0&crom=1&cadu1=1&cSei1=0&cmbt=2&qryt=8&rdct=1

However, for those of you that are looking for a FREE flight to Japan, the Japanese National Tourism Agency has announced a 10,000 ticket give away to stimulate the economy. The contest has no been approved by the Japanese government yet, but is expected to start in April. All you have to do is submit an online application that states your information, where you plan to attend, and how the trip will benefit you.
If you have never been to Japan, the my blog can be a good reference on where to get started for your application.

I hope this blog is helpful and entices you to visit Japan because of its wonder and beauty, and everything the country has to offer. Next Jamie has rolled for the destination Bora Bora. She has chosen to report on great ideas for a honeymoon location within Bora Bora.
Signing out: Bryce

Sunday, October 16, 2011

Bienvenue à la France

Welcome to France! My name is Andres and I have luckily rolled the famous country of France to explore. France is filled with amazing attractions that you can not find anywhere else. The first stop is the famous Cathdrale Notre Dame in Paris. This well known cathedral was built around the 12th century and has been an inspirational and religious icon for many who have come to visit it. The cathedral holds mass and special services open to anyone that wishes to attend. The second great attraction that you must see and visit is the popular Eiffel Tower. Almost 7 million people visit the Eiffel Tower. There are two ways of going up the tower and your options are either by lift or by stairs. The cost for a lift to the top for an adult is €13,40 and for children €9,30. To take the stairs it costs an adult €4,70 and a child €3,20. All children under the age of 4 enter free.
The third attraction that I recommend visitors visiting is the Paris Louvre Museum. This museum may seem familiar to many because of its recent appearance in the hit movie The Da Vinci Code. In the movie you see the actor Tom Hanks visit at night the museum as he arrives he speaks of this glass laminated inverted pyrimad. Inside you can visit the many different themes of the museum like Near Eastern Antiquities, Egyptian Antiquities, Roman Antiquities, Greek Antiquities, and many more. A combined ticket which grants you access to their permanent collections and temporary exhibitions costs €14. This definitely a great opportunity to go with your family or friends to see some of the most unique and historical collections.
The final attraction of France that I believe everyone can enjoy going is the Disneyland Park in Paris. Disneyland Parks are well known all over the world as the happiest place on earth so why wouldn't you want to visit them? This a great opportunity for parents who want to take their children to an attraction that will not only make their day but certainly become a life-long memory. Tickets to this park for one day are $70 per adult and $63 per child. There are restaurants, stores, and bars as well for adults who want to take a break as well.




So make France your next vacation spot and you will surely not be disappointed by the attractions it offers. Make sure to come back next week as we have rolled the dice once again to get.............Japan and its tourism! Enjoy your trip!

Sunday, October 9, 2011

Oi! Como vai voce? Eu me chamo Tanya…
okay okay I think I’m getting a little excited with the Brazilian Portuguese & culture haha
Well who wouldn’t after hearing so much about this wonderful and exciting country called Brazil.  I don’t know if it’s just me but if feel it has been rising in popularity and is becoming the center of attention.  So much that there is even an animated movie called Rio that came out in 2011 that is set in Brazil , also the host city for the 2016 Olympics will be taking place in Rio de Janeiro, and even the 2014 Fifa World Cup will take place in Brazil. 

So luckily the lovely dice has chosen this intriguing country for me and I’m gladly going to look into some of its traditions or festivities : ) 
There is so much to do and so much to see in this country, but I came to the conclusion that there is one little thing that you have to experience at least once in your life time.
And that is of course the famous Carnivals of Brazil.   :  )  According to www.carnivalservice.com the 2012 Rio carnival dates are from February 17 to February 21.  Although those days fall into what we call winter don’t worry because the average climate falls around 80 degrees. (http://www.a2zlanguages.com/brazil/RiodeJaneiro/rio_weather.htm)

These Carnivals consist of endless (about a week) partying, dancing, and fun.  They take place in many cities some including Sao Paulo, Salvador, and the most famous Rio de Janeiro. 
The start of these celebrations begins in what they call the Sambrodomo.  It is a spacious area with seating built especially for people to view parades.   These parades are full of people in beautiful, colorful and extravagant traditional Costumes parading and dancing along the Sambrodomo.  Some of these people parade in decorated floats. Along with all of that, they are also accompanied by live bands playing Samba. 
These groups of people are not just dancing for fun but they are also competing to be the best Samba group out there. 



Also the tickets to enter the Sambrodomo range at very different prices and can be a bit expensive.  Visit this website for details:  http://www.rio-carnival.net/rio_carnival/sambodromo-samba-parade-tickets.php

But if you don’t want to spend that extra money and don’t mind missing out on that there is also lots of street dancing, parades, and even competitions taking place in different neighborhoods.  These are called Blocos. Again lots of parades, drinking, dancing and costumes being seen out in the streets.
I sincerely suggest you take part in the festivities during carnival, which I myself plan on doing some day.
Not only is it a fun experience but also an interesting insight of the Brazilian culture and tradition.

INFO:
You can find round trip flights for the Carnival season on http://www.expedia.com/ starting at $1,363.





Basic Portuguese Phrases:
Oi, meu nome é Tanya…qual é o seu nome?
-HI, my name is Tanya…what is your name?
Bom dia!
-Good morning!
Obrigado!
-Thank you!
( thanks to and refer to….  http://www.easyportuguese.com/ )


And for the next roll of the dice we have.............France! and its attractions : )  

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

First Stop.....HAWAII!!!!!

We are actually going to go into more detail about Maui and what fun things you can do in a day. Start your day hitting with the waves at Royal Hawaiian Surf Academy. Don't know how to surf? No problem! They will teach you! Royal Hawaiian has professional surfers teaching you step by step on how to ride a wave. You start on land, learning how to properly get on the surfboard. You then move on the shallow part of the ocean; this is where you try getting on the board with the waves under you. Don't get disappointed if you don't get it the first time. The instructor is there with you the whole time to pick you right back up. Next is swimming into the deeper end of the ocean. Your instructor waits for a good wave and then sends you on your way! This is such a great experience for the whole family! The rates are about $55-$60 for 2 hours for most group rates.

Have you seen sea life up close and personal? If not how about taking your family on a snorkeling trip? Take a boat to Molokini; a cresent shape island with clear water like you have never seen before. Once you are in the water you will see tons of colorful fish, beautiful coral, turtles, and maybe even an octopus. For 6 hours you pay a rate of  $86-$96 (age 13+) and $55-$62 (ages 3-12); lunch is included.You can go deeper into the water with an extra $45 for snuba gear.

Tired of being in the water now? Enjoy some amazing tours, try sugar canes, go to a swap meet, go to an aquarium. All of this can be done in just the small island of Maui!
Check out Maui Revealed by Andrew Doughty for some more Maui Adventures.



The dice are rolled again and the winner is.....Brazil & its traditions/festivities! Come back next week for more details on this amazing country!