Sunday, December 12, 2010

Best 3 Nightclubs in Vegas

XS Nightclubat the Encore (towards North Strip). This is one of the most popular nightclubs in Sin City. It's 40,000 square feet of fun space with VIP tables and cabanas, nicely laid out on 2 levels. To top the seductive design, you will also enjoy comfortable, suggestive day-beds surrounding the great pool where you can cool off if the dance floor is too crowded. Stripper poles are scattered around just to remind you that you are, after all, in Sin City. You can easily get 'comped' for this nightclub and if you do you will be treated like royalty.

Fontana Barat the Bellagio (mid Strip). This fabulous mid-sized nightclub (the name means 'fountain bar', by the way, and it's quite appropriate for this classy place all-around) is ideal if you seek elegance amongst wood floors and velvet curtains, fun amidst a great atmosphere. It's not only great for those looking for a stimulating sensual experience but it's a fabulous place for couples seeking a romantic night out amidst dream-like settings. You will often enjoy a live music act here, whilst admiring the Bellagio fountains show; you can just relax and let yourself be surrounded by a beautiful sensorial experience; in fact, you can opt to sit outside in a truly romantic setting if you prefer, where you can enjoy a great angle overlooking the fountain show and, beyond that, the Eiffel Tour of the Paris resort: it almost looks and feels real, as if you were spending a night in classic, romantic Europe (almost better than the real thing, I say!). Of course it's not the cheapest of nightclubs but always worth a visit if you want to have a true Sin City experience. Of course, you can always be 'comped'! The entrance is free, so you will save there. A must-go if you like the night-life in any way.

Pure at Caesar's Palace, (mid Strip). It's a place not to miss if you have a VIP pass: its cosy Red Room is often visited by celebrities, because Pure pays for celebrity appearances and often organizes celebrity events here. The Red Room offers full privacy away from the peering eyes of 'everybody else', who will have to stay on the 36,000-square-food public dance floor and the beautiful terrace area, overall with three bars and comfortable lounging beds. Entrance to the dance floor and terrace area is through beautiful glass elevators. It may not be the very best nightclub in Sin City, but it's a must-go if you have several nights to enjoy yourself.

BUT there is one nightclub in Sin City which you must go to if you want to tell stories about it to everybody else when you get back home: Tao! Find out all about this fantasy place (and about all other clubs) on THIS PAGE.

Saturday, December 11, 2010

Thailand Holidays

Think Thailand holidays and you will be smiling for months prior to departing on your hols. Thailand holidays are for everyone who loves to get away to someplace chic yet ordinary, culturally exciting yet with a touch of the everyday life and stupendously gorgeous yet with a glimpse here and there of things you would expect to see on holidays.

How can you resist this distant and yet so close temptation of Thailand holidays? You can't, it's just that simple and yet deliciously complex at the same time. You see, these holidays are ever so brilliant for a number of reasons. Being waited on hand and foot is perhaps one of the most delightful experiences you will have when on your Thailand holidays. Everything you even contemplate is possible including the mundane like child care, shopping and cleaning.

Yes, the everyday world does tend to intrude into the picture now and then, but honestly, it is easily banished as you gaze out over those cerulean blue waters and listen to the ever present music that permeates the air. Sniff the breezes as they waft by where you are sunning yourself, smell the freshness, the tangy blend of fruits, the exotic sun warmed flowers and the snappy, salty smell of the Gulf coast.

There isn't one place in Thailand that you will want to miss. Choose to visit Bangkok, Phuket on the western Andaman coast and the islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan & Koh Tao on the eastern Gulf coast. Or, if the fancy strikes you, just go to one place and soak up the culture, indulge in the food and delight in the local ambiance.

Worried about where to stay on your Thailand holiday? Don't be, as Thailand is in the midst of developing a find array of private villas, splendid resorts, boutique hotels and apartments. Think it, and it is yours to luxuriate in for your Thailand holidays.

Give some pause to not going on your Thailand holidays during monsoon season. Although when one side of the island is being battered, the other side is not, which means you may escape the monsoons by packing up and going to the other side of the island. Phuket is usually hit from April to October, which is a very long season. On the other side where you will find Koh Sumui and Koh Tao, their monsoon season hits from late September through until about the middle of December.

With a little advance planning, you can have your cake and eat it too and arrange to be on the opposite side of the island when the weather is miserable.

Friday, December 10, 2010

The Best Vegas Clubs - Sin City's Top Destinations

Attempting to throw together a list of the best Vegas clubs is no simple feat. For a city aptly known as America's playground, Las Vegas is certainly not lacking in nightlife. With promoters working the strip day in and day out, the town is bursting at the seams with clubs, lounges, and bars. That said, there are a handful of venues that standout from the pack - those that we would categorize as the creme de la creme - the so called best Vegas clubs. Of course picking the right club for the night a necessitates a careful balancing act. Necessary consideration must be given to the night of the week, wardrobe, group size/mix, and drinking budget. Nonetheless, on the whole we think the selections below hold their own among the best Vegas clubs. Obviously however, your mileage may vary.

While open to debate, Pure certainly stands among the top of any such ranking. Located within Caesar's Palace, Pure opened with a bang on New Years Eve in 2005. Spanning 40,000 square feet, Pure is massive in size and scope. That said, even with a tremendous amount of floor space, the club manages to squeeze between 1,500 - 5,000 patrons on a typical Friday or Saturday night. While Pure does have a couple annoyances (the massive crowds can be overwhelming for one, and forget about free water - $8 Fuji's for you good sir!), the place more than makes up for it with a beautiful roof-top floor, multiple DJs, and a near constant flow of celebrities and A-listers. If you're not the gawking type (or least not one to admit to it), then Pure may not be the best choice. But for the rest, Pure merits consideration when choosing among the best Vegas clubs.

If the leader of the pack among the best Vegas clubs was open to debate, then the venue in close running would most certainly be Tryst. Located at the Wynn, Tryst may be smaller than Pure in terms of square footage, but the club packs quite the punch. Best known for its outdoor waterfall, the club scenery balances a relatively relaxing lake and patio with a bustling indoor dance floor. Nonetheless, as with other Vegas clubs, the crowd builds quickly throughout the night - creating a packed and heated setting. Likewise, as with Pure, Tryst is notable for celebrity sightings. The indoor tables situated near the entrance always seem to be sporting a professional athlete of some sort. All said, Tryst ranks among our favorite venues in Vegas. Although the crowds can get a bit feisty, the outdoor areas of the club make for an enjoyable escape. On the right night, Tryst is a solid contestant for the pack leader of the best Vegas clubs.

Rounding out our list would be Tao, located within the Venetian. The club spans 10,000 squares feet. During the day the venue serves as Restaurant, "converting" at night to one of the city's top clubs. Notable for its bathing women, the club is known for its decor and impressive Asian themed motif. Dinner there isn't half bad either. As with both Pure and Tryst however, Tao is susceptible to massive crowds.

On the whole, those looking to enjoy the best Vegas clubs should look at all three of the names mentioned above. While the town has no shortage of clubs, Pure, Tryst, and Tao rank among the best Vegas clubs.

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Visiting Beaches in Phuket

Beaches are integral part of any Phuket tour. The island hosts an array of beaches, all of which have something distinct about them. Famous beaches like Patong, Karon, Kata and Kamala are located in Phuket. Beaches of the Island are the rendezvous of sports, adventure, shopping and night life.

Patong Beach

Patong, most visited beach in Phuket, offers mist-wrapped mornings and the sunsets which are always worthy to watch. And Patong isn't finished with natural beauty. Add to it colorful atmosphere, a range of restaurants, fun-filled nightlife, fabulous fun-making, and the temptation to visit Phuket become irresistible. A long white sandy stretch, Phuket offers thrilling adventures and fast-paced shopping. Any visit to Phuket is incomplete without Patong trip.

Karon Beach

If you wish to avail full range of facilities, dining and activities, but are not too fond of crowds, Karon is your destination. A stretch of squeaky white sand, Karon beach has a number of budget guest houses, restaurants and bars. Some artists have built here a complex of huts and galleries, which would interest art lovers. A football stadium, which hosts both national and international events, is also located near Karon Beach. One can get here rejunevating spa and shop for handicrafts. For enjoying nightlife, you could visit Patak East Road.

Kamala Beach

Kamala is considered the most beautiful beach in Phuket, offering panoramic views of the Andaman Sea. Ringed by forested hills, this calm and pleasant beach has pretty white sands. If one seeks more than sunbathing, facilities like boats are available. At Kamala Beach, one can get a feel of old Phuket. Shopping in village markets has its own charm. One would find a range of hotels and apartments are nestled around the fishing village. After a day of water sports and shopping, one can entertain in evenings at Phuket FantaSea Entertainment Complex, known for sparkling dances and leg-shaking music.

Kata Beach

Milky sands and turquoise waters make Kata Beach different. Surfers like to have fun at Southern end of Kata beach. Every year, during December, beautiful yachts from all over the region arrive in Kata to participate in King's Cup Regatta, Asia's premier sailing event. Tourists wishing to explore beyond the beach can take assistance from several dive shops and tour operators. One could also shop for souvenirs and readymade clothes at shops in Kata village. A popular tourist resort, there are sufficient number of restaurants and hotels too.

Surin Beach

If you wish to relish delicious seafood and sunbath in peaceful and pleasant atmosphere, Surin could be your option. A casuarina-lined beach, Surin has calm and refreshing atmosphere, thanks to the absence of jet-skiis and speedboats. However, the beach is good to enjoy activities like snorkeling and and surfing. Near the beach, one can find facilities like shops, bars, cafes and small hotels.

Bang Tao Beach

A long milky beach, Bang Tao is known for luxurious resorts and villas. One can enjoy a slew of activities including golfing, windsurfing, elephant riding, kids sports, rock climbing, horse riding and ropes course. At open-air village market in close vicinity of the beach, one can get first-hand experience of a conventional Thai market.

Chalong Bay

Muddy coastline makes Chalong Bay unsuitable for most water sports. However, it does have a jetty where you can hire boats. Tourist facilities like parking, restaurants, information kiosks and shops are located on jetty.

Panwa Beach

Panwa is a tranquil beach at a short distance from Phuket town. The foremost attraction of the beach is Phuket Aquarium at the Phuket Marine Biological Center. It is the centre of most water sports competitions in Phuket.

Laem Sing Beach

People wanting a reclusive day can visit Laem Sing which has a white beach at the center and rocky outcroppings at both ends. Located between Patong and Surin, Laem Sing is good for snorkeling and sunbathing. You would find some locally run restaurants and bars, but no accommodation facilities are available.

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Enjoy Vacation - Visiting Thailand Tourist Places

Thailand, nestled in the heartland of Southeast Asia, is among the few countries where the ancient coexists with the modern in peaceful harmony. It's a country that caters to vastly diverse sets of tourists, leaving each one with equally unforgettable memories. For the avid shopper, there are the bright shopping malls of Bangkok, for the intrepid trekker there are the mountain ranges of Mae Hong Son and for the lazy sun-soakers there are the pristine beaches of Phuket and Samui.

The Cities
The Thai capital, the starting point for a large number of tourists in Thailand, offers several fascinating destinations for wide-eyed tourists. Among any 'must visit' list for tourists in Bangkok, will be 'The Grand Palace'. The palace was home to the many Kings of Siam and for many years, it also doubled as the nerve centre of Thai administration. In the complex of buildings you will find the Temple of the Emerald Buddha or Wat Phra Kaew. Considered to be among the most sacred temples of Thailand, it houses the central and most revered object of Thai culture- the Emerald Buddha.

Another city of great cultural significance is Chiang Mai, capital of the Chiang Mai province. The city is lined by many ancient and awe-inspiring Buddhist temples. A temple on top of Doi Suthep, a hill on the north-western part of the city, offers tourists a breathtaking view over the city on a clear day.

Tourists looking for remains of old Thailand will be delighted to visit Chiang Rai, where the 'Golden triangle', the triangle made by the borders of Burma, Laos and Thailand, is found. Yet unspoiled by the glut of tourists visiting Thailand, a quiet boat ride on the Mae Khong River might let you discover something new and extraordinary, each time.

The Islands
Phuket, Thailand's largest island, one of the most frequented places by tourists, may have lost some of its exotic charm by the steady influx of tourists; but to the willing traveler, the destination still offers many delightful sights. Its vast span of white beaches boasts many premier, international beach resorts. And to no ones surprise, the beaches also offer its tourists several sun and surf activities. Other than the beaches, a tourist will find several visual delights such as the one-of-a-kind landscapes of Phang Nga Bay.

Koh Samui is another island with popularity comparable with Phuket. It was only in the late 1970's that the first tourists arrived on Koh Samui. But even today, Koh Samui has retained its charm and offers its tourists white pearlescent beaches, coral reefs, exotic lagoons, picturesque water falls and a lot more.

The destinations may be many, but what a tourist in Thailand will take home is a piece of eternity, a memory of amazing, amazing Thailand.

Monday, December 6, 2010

Quick Tips to Make Your Thailand Vacation Easy and Enjoyable

It's a strange and wonderful land Thailand. You might very well find your first Thailand experience is dealing with a wicked heat wave with the fan whirring away all night and lots of ice cool drinks to keep you refreshed and comfortable...

Of course, everyone's first experience of Thailand will be different. But there's some things you can do to make your Thailand vacation (or journey) remarkable and one to be remembered as special forever...

The first thing it doesn't hurt to have handy is either a small Thai language guide book and perhaps a sprinkling of basic Thai knowledge under your belt, so you can at least say your 'pleases and thankyous,' and communicate where you're from (and where you're headed) too. Believe me, it goes a long way to easing the language barriers.

Next up is to have an adventure. A real adventure - one where you go wherever you feel inclined at the time - just jump on any bus, boat, underground railway or skytrain - and see where it takes you (within reason of course!) As crazy as it seems, it's a lot of fun and you'll get to see the real Thailand faster than any pushed-for-time group tour!

When you go adventuring like this, take your guide book, a small map and have a few Thai language phrases or words swimming around your head and be prepared to use them. But even without those you'll still be OK - the Thais will enjoy helping you out anyway!

So jump into the unknown and get lost in Thailand - Do not you just love the adventure, but the memory will live forever with you!

Friday, December 3, 2010

Top Vacation Destinations 2010 - Part 1

Recently an overwhelming number of lists of vacation destinations for 2010 were released. While I like to think of myself as a somewhat adventurous traveler, some of these destinations seemed to me to be downright silly; especially when taking into consideration specific political scenarios as well as health related situations. At the end of any given vacation day I'd still like my personal safety and health to be in tact. The following list of travel destinations combines a little common sense with some memory making exploration and just the right touch of adventure, which to my way of thinking makes for a fantastic vacation.

Antarctica

The 20th anniversary of commercial tourism within Antarctica will be commemorated in 2010-and it just may be the last time this wilderness will be as easily accessible to visitors as it is at present. Beginning in 2011, the number of travelers permitted onto the continent will be reduced by 50 percent in an attempt to limit the environmental impact of these sightseeing excursions.

Basque Country, France and Spain

With some of the most incredible scenery you will ever see, both France as well as Spain have continually been favorite European vacation destinations. In particular, the Basque coast is an especially beautiful area. Throw in the availability of some fairly amazing travel packages to this gorgeous area of the world, which still let you keep some cash for souvenirs and you've got a combination that's hard to resist.

Bay Of Fire, Tasmania

Chances are you've never heard of this little piece of paradise, but with crystal clear waters, clean, sandy beaches, and cozy little cottages for rent along the shore it has a lot to offer. Located just off the coast of St. Helen's, a small whaling town in the lesser traveled portion of Tasmania, this little-known vacation spot is sure to offer an idyllic island getaway.

Cape Town, South Africa

In an effort to prepare for its moment in the spotlight, the host of the 2010 World Cup has spent the last few years preparing a myriad of new stadiums as well as quite a selection of fresh hotels and restaurants; and let's not forget Cape Town's additional attractions-gorgeous beaches, up-and-coming vineyards, stylish nightlife, and a relaxed vibe.

Copenhagen, Denmark

While Denmark's capital rarely gets the attention it deserves, it truly has a lot to offer, including comprehensive bicycle paths, free bikes, and a new metro line in the works. There are also a host of new public buildings -- an opera house, cutting-edge library, and a concert hall, as well as an environmental program that's turning the rest of Europe green with envy. Another plus for this destination is that the residents are routinely rated as some of the happiest people in the world.

Isles of Scilly, England

Known as the Isles of Scilly, or simply Scilly, England's smallest official "Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty" is sprinkled about the Atlantic 28 miles southwest of Land's End. The archipelago is fringed with beaches of soft, pale sand and has the exotic appeal of some faraway holiday paradise, an impression enhanced by the balmy, frost-free climate and colorful subtropical plants.

Ko Tao, Thailand

If you love the ocean, and the idea of roughing it a bit while still enjoying resort amenities, then this is the place for you. Include endless rich, green landscapes, incredible diving locations, and the chance to experience both the marine and wildlife of the island and it's no wonder this location made the list of top destination locations for 2010.

This is by no means the complete list of vacation destinations this beautiful planet has to offer. In Part 2 of Top Vacation Destinations 2010 we'll continue to explore additional vacation options located throughout the world.