Destination Snow: Kitzbuehel Austria

Destination Snow: Kitzbuehel Austria
Word Count:
772
Summary:
Scenic Kitzbühel is everything an alpine resort should be: a charming village with a medieval center, a world-famous après-ski mecca, and a ski run regularly used on the World Cup circuit. Whether you go to Kitzbühel to ski the Hahnenkamm or to party all night (or both), Kitzbühel doesn’t disappoint.

Keywords:
kitzbuhel austria tirol ski winter vacation trip

Article Body:
Scenic Kitzbühel is everything an alpine resort should be: a charming village with a medieval center, a world-famous après-ski mecca, and a ski run regularly used on the World Cup circuit. Whether you go to Kitzbühel to ski the Hahnenkamm or to party all night (or both), Kitzbühel doesn’t disappoint.
The village is situated at the southern foot of the Kitzbüheler Horn, about 100 kilometers (63 miles) from Innsbruck. The area around Kitzbühel has turned up archaeological evidence of human habitation as far back as the Bronze Age. During the time of the Roman Empire, it became a major crossroads for merchants and travelers. The first records of the village of Kitzbühel date back to 1271. The area didn’t become a tourist destination until 1902, when construction started on a major hotel. Franz Reisch organized the Association of Winter Sports and staged Kitzbühel’s first public ski race.
That’s the old news in Kitzbühel. Here’s what’s new: improvements in lifts and snowmaking facilities for the 2005/2006 season. Old T-bars are being replaced with a state-of-the-art chair lift equipped with child safety devices. Also new this season is the “Panoramabahn Kitzbüheler Alpen,” an eight-seat mono-cable circulating gondola. The resort is also increasing its snowmaking system. Work is underway on a new water reservoir. Man-made snow will cover the ice increasing the amount of terrain by 30 hectares and improving the condition of the snow at the Resterhöhe ski area.
Now, back to the basics – Kitzbühel offers over 145 kilometers (90 miles) of trails with 39 percent designated for beginners, 46 percent for intermediates, and 15 percent for advanced skiers. There are four main mountains: the Hahnenkamm, theKitzbüheler Horn, the Bichlalm, and Pass Thurn. While it is a great resort for intermediates, experts are not left out. They can test their skills on the famous World Cup Streif run (on Hahenkamm) and there is plenty of off-trail terrain to explore. Skiers can even have their speed clocked with radar on the Pengelstein. There are also steep trails around the Ehrenbachgraben bowl and also on the Rettenstein at Pass Thurn.
Kitzbühel is home to the popular Ski Safari circuit, marked by elephant symbols. The circuit allows skiers to explore the entire area between Hahnenkamm and Pass Thurn. A recently installed 3S (tri-cable) continuous loop cableway allows skiers to complete the circuit in both directions without taking off their skis. The Ski Safari covers 35 kilometers (22 miles) of runs.
Snowboarders are most likely to head for the Kitzbüheler Horn. In addition to free-riding terrain, there’s a half-pipe and funpark. There’s a boarder-cross near the Brunellenfeld lift with a 95-meter (312-foot) vertical drop and at least 14 obstacles. The Red Eagle Snowboard Academy in Kitzbühel is a great place to learn and perfect snowboarding skills.
The Kitzbühel area is a good choice for cross-country skiers. Kitzbühel offers 30 kilometers (19 miles) of groomed trails. With the trails of the surrounding towns added on, there is a total of 120 kilometers (75 miles) of groomed trails to explore. Snow hikers and snowshoers find over 100 kilometers (62 miles) of well-maintained hiking trails. Free guided hikes are available during the week as well as special torchlight and photography hikes.
Visitors enjoy other winter activities, as well. Tobogganing, indoor and outdoor ice skating, tubing, and sledding add to the fun. Riding in a horse-drawn sleigh is a romantic way to see the spectacular scenery surrounding Kitzbühel. There are a lot of things to see and do in Kitzbühel. In addition to shopping, visitors can tour several medieval churches. There are spas, the Cable Car Museum, a casino, art galleries, and an alpine zoo.
The village is filled with brightly painted houses, many dating back to medieval times. Visitors can browse through trendy shops and stop for coffee and pastry at one of the many cafés. The only hard part about dining out is deciding where to go. There are more than 100 restaurants in Kitzbühel. Food choices range from Tyrolean, Mexican, and Chinese to Italian, Swiss, and even American. Many great restaurants are found in the town’s four-star hotels.
Some people choose Kitzbühel just for its party atmosphere. Famous for its wild après-ski, the town draws the rich and famous from around the world. Bars and discos keep the fun alive all night. There are, however, quiet pubs for those looking for a more romantic evening.
Kitzbühel is preparing for its opening celebration, with special events planned for December 8 – 11, 2005. Whether you come to ski and snowboard, party or shop, Kitzbühel is the ultimate fun alpine resort.

Colorado Springs, a Truly Wonderful Travel Destination

Colorado Springs, a Truly Wonderful Travel Destination
Word Count:
792
Summary:
The Colorado Rockies are my absolute favorite vacation destination.  Read why the Colorado Springs area in particular is a favorite vacation area of mine and what there is to do and see there.

Keywords:
colorado,springs,royal gorge,rafting,pikes peak,north pole,manitou,cheyenne zoo,cave of the winds,garden of the gods,travel,vacation,trip

Article Body:
Well I decided to write about the great state of Colorado and how much fun vacationing is there.  But there are so many great places to go in Colorado it was tough to narrow down one area to visit.  But eventually I decided on the Colorado Springs area.
Colorado Springs and it's surrounding area has so much to offer and of course the beauty of the mountains makes you want to visit again and again.  There is something about just being in the mountains that is relaxing and peaceful.  I have spent many vacations in Colorado and never get tired of the beauty of the mountains, I even had the opportunity to live there for a short period of time and never grew tired of the scenery. Each time I go to the Rockies there is always something new to see or do it seems like.
I have been to Colorado Springs many times and for any of you readers that may be interested in going there I thought I would tell you a little about what the area has to offer.
There is of course Royal Gorge, the views down are breathtaking and awe inspiring.  You can walk or drive across the bridge, take a tram down to the river, and even tour the area by rail.  A definite must see if you are in the area.
After you have looked down you will want to experience Pikes Peak Highway, it is truly one of the most beautiful areas of the Rockies.  You may see dear, marmots, elk, big horn sheep, and of course there is always the chipmunks.  Be sure to take items to snack on and maybe a picnic lunch because you are sure to stay longer than you thought.  Have some quarters available for when you get to the top for their binoculars or better yet bring your own to use and enjoy all through your trip. You can even take the cog railway to the top if you prefer that over the drive.
If you are into or want to experience some rafting Echo Canyon is the place to go.  If you are into the milder family version they have that available and for the thrill seekers raft the Royal Gorge.
Manitou Springs is noted for their carbonated mineral drinking springs.  You will also find wonderful shopping in many specialty shops and boutiques. A wonderful place to go for window shoppers and serious shoppers alike.  For you chocolate lovers the fudge is out of this world.
If you enjoy waterfalls then Seven Falls should be on your itinerary.  You can climb quite high to see the falls, or take the mountain elevator if that is more to your tastes.  You may even be able to feed peanuts to the chipmunks which is a lot of fun for old and young alike.  Make sure you allow yourself enough time to really enjoy the area and you may want to consider staying there through sunset and enjoying all the colorful lights.  The falls are gorgeous will the lights in the evening.
You can't forget the North Pole and Santa's Workshop if you have young ones.  You will find Santa, a petting zoo, amusement rides, magic shows, and a ton of fun things there.  I have been there many times and it is still a magical place that is fun for the whole family.
There is also the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo which is awesome.  Be sure and bring your walking shoes as the zoo is located in the mountains so there will be some hills to climb, but the walking will be worth it.
Other places you may want to visit would be the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, if you go in the summer you may be able to watch some Pueblo Indian dances live.  For some family fun be sure and visit Buckskin Joe Frontier Town and Railway.  You can ride a train and see some spectacular scenery and enjoy all the wild west action that it has to offer.
There is of course the Garden of the Gods, where you can find wonderful art exhibits representing the culture and history of the area.  And of course there is Cave of the Winds.  There are many different tours available and all are worth the time.  If you time it right when you go you will be able to see a wonderful laxer show in the evening as well.  It is quite dramatic and worth staying up for.
Well these are just a few of my favorite places to go in the Colorado Springs area,  I am sure I have forgotten some but this will give you a start on what you want to do and see when you get there.

Book Vegas Online: 5 Reasons To Book Your Vegas Trip Online

Book Vegas Online: 5 Reasons To Book Your Vegas Trip Online
Word Count:
456
Summary:
With over 30 million visitors a year, Las Vegas is the entertainment capital of the world. From the gorgeous mega-luxury hotels to the exclusive Vegas shows to the unbeatable buffets to the 24 hour casinos, Las Vegas has something for everyone.
More and more travellers are booking their Las Vegas trips online. So should you book your next Las Vegas vacation online? Here are the top 5 reasons to consider booking your Vegas vacation online:
1) Save Money
You don't ha...

Keywords:
las,vegas,book,online,on,line,vacation,vacations,trip,trips

Article Body:
With over 30 million visitors a year, Las Vegas is the entertainment capital of the world. From the gorgeous mega-luxury hotels to the exclusive Vegas shows to the unbeatable buffets to the 24 hour casinos, Las Vegas has something for everyone.
More and more travellers are booking their Las Vegas trips online. So should you book your next Las Vegas vacation online? Here are the top 5 reasons to consider booking your Vegas vacation online:
1) Save Money
You don't have to pay travel agent commissions which can amount to significant savings of hundred of dollars. Plus there are direct-to-customer online travel services that give you special discounts just for booking online.
2) Convenience
Book your Vegas vacation from the comfort of your own home. You don't have to go out to pick up the tickets or haggle with travel agencies. You simply shop, click, book and print - easy as that. (and if you have questions, there's usually a toll free number you can call for 24 hour support)
3) Larger Selection of Las Vegas Packages:
Instead of just choosing from the latest travel agent specials you can choose from EVERYTHING that's available. You know what you want in a Las Vegas vacation better than anyone else - and you can easily browse everything that's available to you online.
Many online travel agents upload new vacation packages weekly so you can monitor the new packages being offered and find an amazing deal.
4) Easy To Search & Book
With easy search functions and large travel package databases, you simply plug in your search parameters and get a listing of possible trips, prices and descriptions. The easy search functions make it simple and fun to find the Las Vegas vacation of your dreams
5) Research Hotels and Find Out What Other Travellers Think - BEFORE You Get There
Ever travelled some place, got there and thought - 'I wish someone had told me what this place was really like before I spent all this money!'?
Now you can know what your Vegas hotel is like before you stay there. Many online travel agents have pictures, detailed descriptions and even downloadable brochures on each Las Vegas resort.
And some online travel agents are also introducing a Travellers' Opinions section where people can leave feedback and rate their hotel vacation experience. They rate hotels and also leave comments on their experience. This is a great tool for you to not only find out which hotels are popular with other travellers but you can usually also pick up other Vegas travel tips that can save you money.
Considering all this, it's no wonder that more and more people are booking their Las Vegas trip online, it's easier, cheaper and you end up making a better choice (and thus having a more enjoyable vacation).

Advice For Backpackers Going To Europe

Advice For Backpackers Going To Europe
Word Count:
510
Summary:
Backpack in hand, you are ready to head to Europe for some fun and sun. Here is some advice for backpackers from someone who has done it multiple times and made the mistakes.

Keywords:
backpacking, backpackers, backpack, europe, trip, vacation, trains, eastern europe

Article Body:
Backpack in hand, you are ready to head to Europe for some fun and sun. Here is some advice for backpackers from someone who has done it multiple times and made the mistakes.
Advice For Backpackers Going To Europe
In my personal opinion, spending a few weeks or months backpacking in Europe should be a mandatory task for every person. Admittedly, it can’t really be called a task since you will love every minute of it. Having backpacked Europe more times than I can count, here are some of the lessons I learned which can help you.
The first piece of advice is to limit the number of things you take. Europe is not located on a far away planet. If you can buy it here, you can buy it there. This includes items such as soap, socks, toothpaste, disposable digital cameras and guidebooks. I guarantee that you will take too much junk with you. Don’t. One or two pairs of shoes, shorts, one pair of slacks [to get into museums and churches] and a couple shirts is all you need. If you need anything else, you can just buy it there.
There is a lot to see and do in Europe, so most people want to maximize their time. One way to do this is to travel and sleep at the same time. Yes, I am talking about the night trains. When moving from one location to another, try to take the latest train and sleep during the trip. You only have a set amount of time. Taking this approach will keep you from wasting valuable daylight hours on the road.
One of the key pieces of advice I can offer you is to use your common sense. If you wouldn’t walk down that alley or into that establishment at home, why the heck are you going to do it in Europe? Europe is very safe and the people are friendly. That being said, every location has its rough spots. Avoid them. Particularly in the Eastern European countries. Trust me on this one!
To maximize your experience, it is best to get off the beaten path. When you visit a city, spend at least a day in a town outside of the city limits. You will discover the real nature of the country. Tourists are fewer, so people tend to be interested in talking with you. There are always a group of older men sitting in a café. Join them and you will be laughing for hours. I did this in Austria and ended up speaking a week in a little village called Halstatt. One of the best times I ever had.
When it comes to tips backpackers and Europe, this final piece of advice is very important. Do not try to see everything. Stick to one country for two weeks, but no less than one week. This lets you get the most out of the visit.
Yes, there are other countries, but you will just have to come back again to see them. Poor you.