History and Tranquillity in Lloret de Mar's Santa Clotilde Gardens

Flickr Creative Commons / Richard Clifford

By Desiree Michels

Drenched in history and bursting with hidden gems, Lloret de Mar has so much just waiting to be discovered, particularly if you are looking for something a little bit different. For anyone just arrived and looking to explore some of the more out-of-the-way places, the Santa Clotilde Gardens are the perfect place to start.

The Gardens in Brief

Sitting proud on a breezy cliff top, the gardens offer some fabulous views over the coastline – ideal if photography is a passion, or even if it isn’t! Perfectly manicured hedges cut into wonderful shapes line the slopes, and the stunning green staircase is set off beautifully by the sculptured marble mermaids that decorate its edges.

Blessed with refreshing breezes, the gardens are the ideal spot to escape to in the afternoons when you crave tranquillity and respite from the beach.

A Little History

Inspired by the Noucentista movement in Catalonia, the gardens were designed in 1919 by Nicolau Rubió i Tudurí, who also worked on the famous Gardens in Barcelona. Epitomising the gardens of the Italian Renaissance, Rubió combined a sense of rigidity with a refined grace to bring his concept to life.

This project was a chance for the young Rubió to branch out and express his own creativity. He put aside the Spanish-Arabic influence to which he had been exposed when he worked on the Montjuïc gardens with his teacher, Forestier, and instead set out to incorporate the spirit of the Italian Renaissance, which he did beautifully in his inclusion of fountains, sculptures and ponds. Every aspect of the gardens is a fine example of the way the artist synthesised his artistic prowess with nature’s powerful aesthetic, and today the gardens stand justly independent of their surroundings.

As you explore you will be guided by the symmetry and definitive pathways that culminate in ornamental features. Terraces and interlocking walkways shape the gardens and add to its romantic intention. For anyone with a desire to spend some time relaxing and appreciating a different side to Lloret de Mar, this place is perfect.

Where

The Santa Clotilde Gardens are located on Paratge de Santa Clotilde, 17310, Lloret de Mar.

When

From April to October the gardens are open from Monday to Sunday between 10am and 8pm. From November to January they close at 5pm, and from February to March they close at 6pm.

Cost

The gardens costs €5 per adult and €2.50 for any concessions, such as pensioners, students, and disabled people.

How to Get Back to Barcelona

Lloret de Mar is the ideal getaway for a relaxing break and, as it is only just over an hour’s drive from Lloret de Mar to Barcelona Airport, it is very convenient. Pre-book with Shuttle Direct and either I or one of my colleagues will be on hand to collect you from your hotel to drive you from Lloret de Mar to Barcelona Airport for your return trip. Our team is professional, helpful, and are always on hand to help with your bags at either end of the journey. Book with us, and you are guaranteed a stress-free, fixed-price transfer.

9 Ways To Better Maximize Your Travel Budget

Flickr Creative Common / David Wan

By Patrick Leifer

Thinking of going on an expensive getaway this year? At first glance it may seem too costly but there's a good chance it may not be as unfeasible as you had initially thought. Listed below are some tips and tricks I have picked up throughout my travels to hopefully help you save up that little extra bit of money you need for your future trip.

1. Leave one night early, cut out one night of rental costs

When traveling on a budget one very easy way to cut down on extra expenses is to leave the night before you were originally planning to depart for home. Doing this will effectively cut out one night's worth of hotel costs and if you set up a red-eye flight you can still get a whole day worth of activities in before you have to head home. Booking flights during the traveling off-season can also net you some serious savings if you wait for the right opportunities too.

2. Cut back on unnecessary meals

Another tip I recommend is that, if possible, you should agree to cut back or cut out one meal per day. If you can't do that then come prepared to make yourself a meal instead. Subtracting or substituting a nice lunch every day over a one week trip will add up to be a rather substantial amount of money saved.

3. Investigate alternatives to regular hotels

If you are really looking to travel on a dime lay out a budgeting plan in advance. What I mean by that is before you arrive make an effort to do some research on minimizing costs. Instead of a hotel maybe consider a hostel or a couch surfing website. You typically get a better cultural experience going through a housing alternative anyways.

4. Drink alcohol at home not at a bar

For those who plan on drinking a lot of alcohol and don't mind doing it at home instead of at a bar you won't regret that decision as your average drink at a bar can typically run you anywhere from $5 to $15 or even $20 whereas you can get a lot more for your money simply buying it from a store instead.

5. Scrutinize hotels and try to find the best overall deal

With hotels and tourist venues always looking to remain filled be on the lookout for coupons and other deals when it comes to anything from flights to hotels to sightseeing. One trip may appear cheaper than another but with the right deals the more expensive option may actually cost less once you factor in the savings too. Going with that train of thought it never hurts to scrutinize hotels in order to find the best deal for you. If you are the kind of person who is fine with a 1 star hotel then don't bother compromising with a 3 or 4 star where you will end up having to pay more for things that don't really matter to you.

6. Find connecting flights

If possible try to find cheap connecting flights in the country or countries you are visiting instead of using the train. Under certain circumstances it will not only save you time but it can also save you money depending on where you are looking to go.

7. Consider renting a car if it turns out to be cheaper

Try substituting a car rental instead of taking lots of taxi rides. For obvious reasons it will definitely be cheaper. Also when vacationing try to maximize your efficiency by visiting places in the same area at the same time. Additionally, budget out your rental car for only as long as you absolutely need it because otherwise it can burn a hole in your pocket pretty quick. One thing I recommend is segmenting off a part of the trip to only seeing things that are necessary with a car and then returning the vehicle after you are finished.

8. Travel with others

Always travel with companions. Not only is it safer but it is cheaper too. Being able to split the costs with someone else will make your budget drastically more manageable. Cramming a few extra people into a hotel room may not necessarily be fun but it is most certainly one of the best ways to cut down on costs.

9. Don't load up on luggage

Be extra efficient when packing luggage. Having to carry around excess luggage bags is not only a nuisance but it is also costly depending on which airline you are flying. For shorter trips try cramming everything you can into one carry on. It takes some skill and practice but once you get the hang of things it will make airports transitions much less stressful too.

If you would like to see more articles like this feel free to check out http://www.dreamland.news. It is a site dedicated to bringing happiness right to your doorstep from all around the world.

Additionally, if you have a story that is inspirational, heartwarming, or happy in nature and would like to have your voice heard please click on the "Idea Submissions" link on Dreamland's homepage.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Patrick_Leifer/2289667

Himalayan Full Moon

Himalaya (Flickr Creative Common / Bernard Goldbach)

By Andrea Scarsi 

It is midnight, and full moon on the Himalayas, and the cold kills. I cannot adapt to the climate. The wooden walls of my room are a miserable shelter and my feather sleeping bag is too warm and transpiring. I am sweating in it and the slightest air current makes me shiver. It is my mania to avoid anything synthetic. I decide to go down to the hot springs. A small one is nearby, in the center of the village, tiled with large flat stones and bounded by a circular wall of smaller ones, about an arm's length. The diameter is approximately five meters and there's never anyone; they all go to the biggest one at the village entrance. That hot water spring welcomes you when you arrive, after crossing an endless rope-bridge teetering over a sacred river descending loud and rushing into a deep gorge. When you walk over it, stunned by the noise, you see the road carved into the mountain on one side and inviting warm waters on the other. They're very hot indeed, contained within a single masonry construction. All the rest is wood.

The air is very cold, the moon triumphs, and the pitch darkness is the backdrop with thousands of pulsating stars. I take a deep breath and feel like dying. I go, alone in the street, shaking in my yak-wool jacket and pulling my local hat down to my ears. I can see the fumes of the baths from afar, inviting, and I already breathe the delicate scent of sulfur. All around, above the dark shape of the houses, the giant profiles of the mountains. I leave my slippers out and enter the circle. Heat and humidity are very pleasant and revive me. It's a dark outdoor place, surely revitalizing for my skin and numbed lungs. I take off my jacket to sit on hot plates, and enjoy the night, moon, loneliness, altitude, and finally heat. What a place, what an atmosphere, what an unknown and unimaginable magic. I would stay naked but you never know how many eyes are watching you hidden in the dark of night. There is too much moonlight to sleep. All around is peace, but inside me there is always something that grinds deep and makes me always feel uncomfortable. Time stops and so do I, in unstable balance, crushed by the night that does not move. I close my eyes and listen to the sound of water flowing beneath me.

I hear the sound of footsteps and see Rita arriving. She takes off her slippers and approaches, sitting down beside me. She feels cold too and presses against me for a few minutes. We look into each other's eyes; silence is too dominant to say anything, we're both pure perception pierced by reflected moon rays. We fill a pipe and smoke it slowly, savoring the taste, the burning fire and thick smoke coming out of our dragon's mouth. It's becoming more and more magic this October full moon. It's getting hotter and bit by bit we strip off our cloths, until we're finally naked, reckless and heedless as always. Her skin is white, faintly silver, her curves slender and delicate, her eyes bright and smiling and a cascade of black curls cover her shoulders down to her breasts. Her pubic forest dominates, undisputed and inviting, and we get lost in a sublime tangle of love. A bit timid, a bit hesitant, I come inside her. She's happy. We lie embraced over our clothes. The night is softer now, gently enveloping, and after an infinite time, comes an endless dawn. The ritual is complete, in the Valley of Gods.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9461314

Travel around the multicolored Land of Rajasthan, India

By Jenifer Agha 

Splendid and wonderfully hued Tie and Dye Turbans of the men people! Lively and beautiful shades of the clothing of the ladies society! Lavishly decorated elephants and camels found in and around the state! Rajasthan is certainly the most brilliant place that is known for India. This place is best known for hosting tigers and birds.

It is an enchanted area that springs shocks every step of the way, blows your mind in each curve. Unfathomable strongholds, palatial royal residences, fascinating natural life asylums and national parks, notable urban communities, fabulous Havelis, heavenly altars, conventional towns, desert scenes, old fashioned sanctuaries, undulating sand hills, beautiful lakes, legacy and bastion lodgings, and so forth. It is broadly commended for its affluent society, restrictive custom, rich legacy and mind blowing past.

Jaipur, pink city is the amazing symbol of the imperial Rajasthan visits. Consistent with its name it is a beautiful, dynamic and captivating capital city. The hypnotizing city with its worshiping charm takes you to a time of eminence and custom. Hawa Mahal, Nahargarh stronghold, Amber Fort, Jantar Mantar, Jal Mahal, and so forth are a portion of the well known landmarks situated in Jaipur.

Udaipur is a standout amongst the most wonderful and sentimental city of Rajasthan. It is additionally regularly alluded to as the Kashmir of Rajasthan. It is likewise called the city of lakes and royal residences on the grounds that there are numerous flawless lakes and castles in this city. Investigate the wonderful peaceful pools of Udaipur, for example, swaroop sagar lake, pichola lake, fateh sagar lake and Udai Sagar Lake it would give you a delightful affair to treasure for a lifetime.

Mount Abu is a world popular destination to investigate known for its Dilwara Jain sanctuaries and characteristic excellence world over. It is situated amidst the lavish green forested slopes on the most noteworthy crest in the Aravalli Range. It is additionally the late spring capital of Rajasthan. Atmosphere at Mount Abu is exceptionally cool and serene due to its rich vegetation covering the whole slope that incorporates coniferous trees and blossoming bushes.

Jaisalmer, prevalently known as the brilliant city of Rajasthan shows its customs with Jaisalmer Fort. The town is arranged on an edge of yellowish sandstone, headed by a stronghold, which incorporates the royal residence and a few luxurious Jain sanctuaries. Jaisalmer is the quintessential desert town, its brilliant and sand-shaded defenses ascending out of the bone-dry Thar like a scene from the Arabian Nights. The lovely sandstone engineering of the "Brilliant City" is very not at all like whatever else in India.

The city of Jodhpur embraces delightful royal residences, posts and sanctuaries that bring back an occurrence of the past. The people moves, music and rich painstaking work make a vibe of a sentimental city. Jodhpur is well known for recorded momentous destinations. Mehrangarh Fort and Umaid Bhawan Palace, and so on are the unmistakable attractions in the city.

If you love wildlife than you can visit ramnthambore national park, the diversity of this park is similar to the Pangolakha wildlife sanctuary, which is located in Sikkim.

In Rajasthan, you will have a craving for going in a time machine as all spots have their own particular story to tell. Rajasthan is a place that is known for complexities. Individuals are agreeable, brimming with delightBusiness Management Articles, shading and bonhomie. Spoil your taste buds with the divine cooking of the area. Each locale has its own particular uniqueness be it from desert dishes to regal delights. So what are you sitting tight for? Go and spend some days in Rajasthan!

Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com

Train travel

By Barry Sheppard

Don't like flying? Or have a fear of flying?

Want to make adventure part of your travel plans?

Want to see different places without extra expense?

Are you environmentally aware?

Do you know you can travel the world without stepping in an airport?

Which brings me to my story.

I was travelling back to London via Moscow from Japan. (The ticket I'd bought was one of those earlier days cheap fares.) As we crossed the South China Seas the plane seemed to be struggling. After a while announcements in Japanese & Russian were spouted out. The whole lot on the plane started bending over and putting their hands over their heads. I knew what it meant after serving nearly 4 years in the Army Air Corps in the Far East. I looked around. I couldn't see anyone else who looked like a Westerner. Ah! They remembered me in the cockpit by shouting out "We are crash landing".

With this, the plane started banking and going down in quite a decent fashion. It wasn't a tumble. Seemed like a normal descent. As we got nearer the ground it banked again. Yahoo. I see a lake and that made my mind up. I decided to run across the seats on the backs of all the passengers. Push the door off and get ready to jump into the lake. Anyone wants to follow, up to them. For crashing into the ground was not going to be me. Take my chances with a jump, even if only a foot deep.

So, there I was. A young man. 5 years out of the Army. Still very fit. Taking my own life in my hands rather than people up front trying to control a huge ball of metal hurtling about in the sky. And to all intents and purposes about to crash and most probably killing every one onboard. Not me Bud. I'm off.

The plane got nearer the ground. The huge wastes of Siberia facing us. I'm just about ready. My thoughts were, I'll wait until it's not a huge jump. Just enough to clear the ground and make it easier if that water was only a foot deep. Hopefully not push my legs up my body but alive. Here we go.

At the moment of decision, balancing on the top of a seat, I half fall, due to the plane taking a steeper bank to the left. Through the window see a beautiful site. A piece of land cut out like an Airstrip...it was. I stayed. We landed heavily, but who cares, we landed.

After a while, I found out, the plane, due to strong facing winds and too many passengers across the China Seas, had run out of fuel!

Long story short. Got to Moscow. Told changing planes as this one is useless. Help.

On reflection, and I do a lot with this flight, some was maybe due to language differences.

Still didn't help me. That flight seemed to last forever. Tried to read a book after getting back up in the air. No good. Every shake or shudder set me off.

I never flew again for over 25 years and found a brand new world. I went to America from the UK, New York, by rail to Chicago and Los Angeles. Drove 3,000 odd miles to Miami, Washington up to Quebec. Down thru Canada to Niagara Falls. Through New York. Up to Montreal to catch my ship to London....

.....absolute magic but that's another 150 stories.

That's it folks.

Ingin Jadi Travel Writer? Think Outside The Box !!

CC0 Unsplash / Pixabay

Traveling atau melakukan perjalanan kini menjadi gaya hidup sebagian orang. Entah itu melakukan kunjungan ke tempat-tempat baru di dalam kota, refreshing ke kota atau desa tetangga, pulang kampung, atau mengunjungi negara-negara dan melihat keunikan budaya di sana.

Harga tiket yang semakin murah dan banyaknya tawaran akomodasi yang terjangkau bahkan gratis membuat tren melakukan perjalanan tak lagi dimonopoli mereka yang punya dana melimpah.

Karena itu, tak jarang kita bisa menemukan tulisan-tulisan perjalanan berterbaran di internet dan media cetak. Para musafir itu membuat blognya sendiri atau berpartisipasi dalam blog komunitas atau jurnalisme warga seperti Kompasiana atau Phinemo.

Dari sekedar berbagi pengalaman, ternyata tak sedikit catatan perjalanan itu menghasilkan uang. Mulai dari honorarium artikel yang dimuat di media, tawaran penyusunan buku, review produk, hingga jalan-jalan gratis dibiayai oleh sponsor. Nah, tidak sedikit para penulis artikel perjalanan terdoong mendapatkan keuntungan seperti yang saya sabutkan.

Masalahnya, bagaimana menuk]lis artikel perjalanan yang segar dan tidak melulu soal bagaimana cara atau How To?

Salah satu penulis perjalanan dari Great Escape Publishing, Sophie Parmantier dalam blognya bercerita, artikel perjalanan yang baik adalah jika sang penulis mampu bertutur dan menggambarkan perjakanannya. Bukan secara umum, tapi momen-momen tertentu di dalam perjalanan.

"Jika anda mengontak sebuah majalah atau penerbitan dan mengatakan anda memiliki artikel perjalanan ke suatu tempat tapi tak memberikan angle tertentu, pasti anda akan mendapat jawaban, 'Tidak, terima kasih' atau bahkan diabaikan sama sekali. Penerbit mendapat ratusan tawaran seperti ini dan yang mereka inginkan adalah sesuatu yang original, asli," kata Parmantier.

Angle atau sudut pandang dan keaslian. Untuk mendapatkan itu Parmantier menyarankan penulis untuk berpikir di luar kebiasaan, lain dari yang lain. Lebih berani dan tawarkan hal yang tak terpikirkan sebelumnya.

Parmentier mencontohkan saat bulan Oktober lalu ia melakukan perjalanan ke Kanada ia melakukan perjalanan selama dua bulan ke Kanada. Saat kembali ke rumah, ia berhasil menjual 10 halaman artikel untuk sebuah majalah.

"Artikel sederhana soal indahnya Montreal tidak akan menarik pembaca. Tapi cerita tiga hari bersama masyarakat asli di Utara Montreal akan lebih menjual," kata Parmantier

Tulisan itu telah melunasi biaya penerbangan dan akomodasinya. Editor majalah itu kemudian memintanya untuk mencari komunitas-komunitas lokal di tempat lain dan bersedia membayar biayanya meski Parmantier sendiri sebenarnya akan membayar sendiri biaya perjalanannya.

Dalam sebuah perjalanannya ke komunitas Atikamekw di satu lembah di Quebec Parmantier memancing di danau, bermain kano, tidur di tenda indian dan mendengar cerita legenda di samping api unggun. Parmnantier tak mengeluarkan uang untuk semuanya itu berkat keberaniannya mengangkat kisah-kisah yang original.

Bercerita atau story telling merupakan trend tulisan perjalanan saat ini. Travel Writer paling terkenal se-Indonesia, Trinity, saat mengisi salah satu sesi du Makassar International Writer Festival 2015 menyarankan para musafir menulis hal-hal yang remeh, terutama para pemula. TIdak perlu membayangkan tulisan perjalanan seperti di National Geographic atau Reader's Digest, namun hal-hal remeh sebenarnya menunjukkan keaslian dan bukti perjalanan sang penulis.