Travel and Leisure

3 Top Towering Attractions in New York City

2011-09-12T09:17:00.000-07:00

If you're in this great city on business, you'll probably spend much of your time in New York conference rooms. But if you take some time to stroll around the streets to explore, amongst the hustle and bustle you will soon realise that you are surrounded on all sides by giant skyscrapers. Whilst many are purpose-built office buildings, some have interesting history of their own.

Here are three of the tallest attractions in the city you shouldn't - and in fact, can't -miss!

1. The Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is the iconic symbol of New York, and when you are doing business or attending events in New York conference rooms you may well be able to spy it from the window. It's much more impressive up close, so you should take time out of your schedule to pay the lady a visit.

At 93 metres, this is one of the biggest statues in the world, and one of the tallest attractions in New York. It was opened in 1886, and is now a symbol of freedom all over the world. While you can go inside and go up inside the crown to get a fantastic view, visitor numbers are strictly limited so you'll need to book months ahead. Even so, just seeing it from the base is impressive enough. Take a walk around the base and reflect on the symbolism behind this great statue.

2. The Chrysler Building

The Chrysler Building is another of the soaring buildings you may be able to see from your own New York conference rooms. This Art Deco skyscraper in Turtle Bay is 319 metres high, and when it was built it was the tallest building in the world. With modern developments and technology, its status has been reduced to the third-tallest building in New York - but it is certainly impressive - and beautiful. In fact, many consider it to be one of the most architecturally gracious buildings in New York, and although you cannot go up to the top, it is certainly worth a visit to get up close.

3. The Empire State Building

Unlike the Chrysler Building, you can get to the top of the Empire State Building to get a fantastic view of the city below. The spire of the Empire State Building stretches up 443.2 metres, and it was the tallest building in the world for 40 years. After the attacks on the World Trade Centre, it once again became the tallest building in New York.

New York is a wonderful city to explore, but for a true birds-eye view the best way to see it is from up high. While in the city attending to business in New York conference rooms, make sure that you spend some of your free time visiting one of the above attractions and your time in New York will be even more memorable.

Fashion Study Tours to Barcelona

2011-09-08T09:14:00.000-07:00

Traditionally, if you heard the term 'fashion capital', it would probably conjure up images of couture garments being paraded on the catwalks of New York, Paris, Milan and Tokyo. However, Barcelona has made a name for itself as a competitive fashion capital with its own unique, innovative sense of style. Thus, fashion-based study tours to this thriving city, where designers have been making headlines, are becoming extremely popular. There's much to see and learn on fashion study tours to Barcelona. Here are some key venues that every fashion student should be eager to visit while there.

Textile and Costume Museum
This wonderful museum has clothing and textiles dating back from the Arab conquest of Spain, to the Gothic, Renaissance and modern times. On study tours here, students can examine fashion from 17th century Baroque styles to 20th century designs. There are several collections on display, including a display of jewellery featuring close to 500 pieces produced in Spain. The Dressing the Body exhibition takes visitors on a historical walk through the history of garments - covering the periods 1550 through 2000. This interesting exposition explores how men and women have altered the appearance of their bodies through various kinds of garments, hairstyles, jewellery and body tattooing. Learn the five ways the appearance of the body has been altered throughout time, on this one of a kind tour.

MANGO
MANGO is Barcelona's most prestigious multinational company. Established over 20 years ago, MANGO can now be found in 89 countries, with over 1000 branches across the five continents. The company designs, manufactures and markets garments and accessories for women. This company should without doubt be on the agenda of fashion study tours in Barcelona, given that MANGO is inarguably one of its biggest high street successes. It is also Spain's second largest textile exporter. Tours at MANGO will take you behind the scenes into their warehouse, design facilities and logistics department.

European Institute of Design
Established in 1966, the European Institute of Design (IED) is considered one of the best design schools in Europe. With campuses in 12 cities spread across the globe, students can visit the Barcelona campus on their study tours. The university has courses across the disciplines of Design, Fashion, Visual Communication and Management. IED's teaching philosophy aims to answer calls from the fashion industry for specialised and diversified training. As such, its students learn a combination of theory and practical. IED is also known for working closely with entrepreneurs and companies in the field, as it encourages its students to live the sense of fashion that they learn.

Get the Right Motorcycle for Off-Road Biking

2011-09-04T09:17:00.000-07:00

Off-road biking is certainly an exciting prospect; however, if you are looking to swap the relative comfort of riding on tarmac for more varied terrain, it is important you lend some thought to which kind of motorcycle you will require.

Of course, not all motorbikes are the same, so you ought to consider looking for models that are specifically designed for use off-road.

Whether you're after a bike to compete in races or you're planning on going on a globetrotting adventure where you'll encounter a range of landscapes - which may include everything from forests and deserts to mountains and jungles - you'll need something that gives you the performance necessary to keep going.

Off-road bikes - or dirt bikes as they are often also known - are typically lightweight, a feature that can make handling easier.

In addition, they usually have a simple, more rugged construction than road bikes like cruisers or scooters, while larger wheels work to give a wider surface area and more stability as you ride.

With off-road bikes made by a range of leading brands, you ought to find there is plenty of scope for you to get your hands on a high-quality, high-performance motorcycle.

At first, you may find the choice of vehicles a little overwhelming, so initially it is wise to think about what you are hoping to use your bike for and the kind of environments you are likely to encounter.

If you are unsure about which particular bike would be best suited for your particular requirements, you should consider seeking out advice. By speaking to a motorcycle sales company you will be able to discuss with an expert about the kind of vehicle you are thinking of getting and how much money you have to spend.

One bike that could prove particularly effective for off-road escapades is the Yamaha Tenere range. Select the Yamaha Tenere XT660Z and you should find the adventure bike's 22-litre tank enables you to travel long distances without having to fill up, while the light aluminium swing arm and long front forks work to provide you with agile handling.

Should you be seeking off-road bikes for racing, meanwhile, KTM might be one motorcycle brand to give particular consideration to. The company has produced a wide range of all-terrain motorbikes over the years, with the LC4 line designed specifically for use in enduro races.

With sizeable suspension irons to ensure a comfortable ride in even the most challenging environments and fuel injection technology, no matter the weather or what land you're riding on, you can be sure this bike will perform.

From here, you should be able to establish which models will be most suitable in terms of allowing you to enjoy fantastic off-road action.

In much the same way as when riding on tarmac roads, it is vital off-road enthusiasts protect themselves while on their bikes.

Algarve's Carvoeiro Is Perfect for Family Getaways

2011-08-19T09:16:00.000-07:00

For a Portuguese destination that is perfect for families and filled with stunning restaurants and beaches, parents should look no further than the small fishing town of Carvoeiro.

There are many reasons why booking a villa in this destination will prove ideal for families, not least the variety of sandy beaches that can be enjoyed.

The beautiful weather and safe stretches of sand are two of the main draws of Carvoeiro villas. The south-west location means parents and kids can almost be certain of a favourable climate, with mild conditions often experienced even during the winter.

Many of the beaches are also shielded by dramatic cliff tops, so the common problem of the wind blowing sand into your eyes and packed lunches should not be an issue!

Praia means beach in Portuguese, which could be useful to know when on the hunt for the perfect place to enjoy a day splashing in the waves and sunbathing. Praia de Marinha, Praia de Carvalho and Praia da Albandeira are just some of the stretches of sand on offer here.

The latter is divided by rocks and is therefore fairly small, which mums and dads might prefer if they want to spend some quiet time with their little ones. As well as breathtaking cliffs, stone structures rise out of the water, adding to the beauty of the area.

Kids will no doubt delight in the rock pools and hidden caves that can be explored during a low tide, while the clear waters make it the perfect place for a spot of snorkelling.

You might even get the chance to see some local aquatic life, such are the favourable snorkelling conditions. For the more adventurous, scuba diving is an activity you can participate in off the shores of Carvoeiro, although it is worth checking the age restrictions on such daytrips.

If swimming is a favourite family pastime, you can head to the two water parks located close to the town centre.

Slide and Splash is near to Faro in Lagoa, while Aqualand is located at Alcantarilha. Indeed, one of the biggest advantages to staying in villas in the Algarve is the flexibility they provide.

As is often the case with board or all-inclusive accommodation, you are tied to breakfast and evening meal sittings. With a self-catering villa, you can come and go as you please without worrying about missing meals you have paid for.

Indeed, Carvoeiro has plenty of supermarkets and stores to allow you to stock up on essentials. Of course, you are likely to want to sample some of the delicacies found in the region and the town does not disappoint.

As well as an abundance of fresh seafood, other dishes you and your family might like to try incltde steak Portuguese, puddings packed with figs and almonds and the spicy grilled chicken piri-piri.

Carvoeiro villas also provide mums and dads with the perfect chance to relax together when the kids are in bed. In a single hotel room, there is likely to be nothing to do when little ones sleep.

However, a private villa will enable parents to relax with a glass of wine, a romantic meal and a film, safe in the knowledge their kids are sound asleep in their bedrooms.

For a family break that offers flexibility, stunning scenery, sandy beaches and an abundance of restaurants to choose from, Carvoeiro in Portugal's Algarve can prove to be the perfect destination.

School Ski Trips to Folgaria, Italy

2011-08-16T09:15:00.000-07:00

Folgaria, in Italy, is a beautiful ski resort town located in the Northern Italian province of Trentino. It is about 15 kilometres south of the main city of Trento, nestled in the heart of the Trentino Dolomites. Though it is often visited in the summer, the area is best known for its 'Skitour dei Forti', which is connected to three of the Altipiani plateaus: Folgaria, Lavarone, and Luserna.

The Folgaria ski network has over 100 kilometres of downhill pistes that are linked to form the Carosello Ski Folgaria. With 37 ski lifts serving the area, school ski trips here will be packed full of non-stop skiing and boarding for all ages and abilities. While in the area of Folgaria, as well as skiing, snowboarding and sledging, students can visit the snow parks and take some time out to go ice-skating too.

Skiing, Snowboarding, and Sledging in Folgaria

As one of the most important skiing circuits in the Trentino Dolomites, or Prealps, Folgaria offers something for everyone - including those looking to brush up on their snow-skills or start from scratch at a school. Ski trips here allow access to light blue, red, and black slopes, which are well marked and easy to navigate. The new ski lifts make moving from one area to another simple, as students progress in their ability and want to try higher and harder slopes. If young skiers have had enough of two skis and want to try their legs on a snowboard instead, this is the perfect place. The easy (light blue) slopes are great for learning the basic manoeuvres in a safe and comfortable environment - with a bonus of beautiful views.

Once youngsters have had enough of trying to stay upright on their school ski trip, they can rent a sledge and have a slide down one of the several dedicated runs in Folgaria. While these runs are really intended for children, it is no surprise to see adults here too, sliding down the tracks and having a great time!

Snow Parks

The Folgaria resort area is lucky enough to be served by two snowparks: the Jurassik Snowpark and the Mazinga Park. If your students are ready to take the next step, they can ski down the slopes in these snowparks and see how it feels to fly while navigating the various jumps and obstacles. The Jurassik Snowpark has a slope of 800 metres long, with both easy and hard levels that can introduce skiers to the world of 'freestyling'. The brave (and experienced) have the option to test themselves on 18-metre jumps, boxes, rails, walls, and other props. Mazinga Park is 68 metres long and has five boxes for jumping, including a four metre 'kids box'. This is the ideal place for beginners on school ski trips to give freestyling a try.

Ice Skating

Once the kids have had their day on the piste - the fun's not over yet! Why not take them for a spin around the ice rink in the Palafolgaria? Located at 21 United Nations, the Palafolgaria not only has the all-important ice rink, it also has a pool, a gym and sporting halls. It is the perfect place for students to wind down and relax after a thrilling day on the ski slopes.

Popular Activities for People on Group Vacations

2011-08-07T09:12:00.000-07:00

Cape Town is a wonderful city with plenty of places to visit and loads of activities to do. Some popular activities include wine tasting, shark cage diving, abseiling, and hiking. Read further to know about the different activities that can be undertaken as a group:

• Hiking: Needless to say, this is the most popular activity among tourists and locals. The Table Mountain offers the best opportunity to understand and learn more about the unique fynbos vegetation, bird life, and the natural history of the place. In fact, the Cape Floral region is known to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Tourists can choose from one of the many hiking trails including Silvermine Nature Reserve, Kalk Bay Caves, Elsies Peak, and Chapman's Peak.

• Wine tasting: More than 300 years ago, the Dutch laid the foundations for several wine estates that dot the Table Mountain slopes. Today these vineyards are a major tourist attraction, with many hotels in Cape Town holding wine and dinner evenings where wine connoisseurs across the world are invited for an evening of wine tasting. Tourists can take part in these wine tasting sessions and learn more about the wines that are unique to the place. While there are plenty of wine estates, the most popular among them include the Steenberg Wine Estate, Constantia Uitsig, and the Groot Constantia Estate. You can taste and buy wines directly from the cellar, or choose to buy souvenirs and gifts from the gift shops located nearby.

• Quad Biking: Quad biking is a wonderful activity that can be enjoyed as a group. There are several companies that offer quad bike tours along the Elgin Valley, and the Ruwami Private Nature Reserve near Hermanus. You can also go on nature discovery tours where a qualified field guide takes you on an educational tour about the environment around them. Although these quad bikes are comfortable for beginners to ride, you still need to ensure that the company that you choose, places priority on safety.

• Zip Lining: With the scenic Table Mountain as its background, zip lining is indeed an ideal activity for adventure freaks. Although this isn't a group activity, you certainly need people to cheer as you slide along a pulley that is suspended on a cable mounted on an incline.

Besides these, there are several other activities that people can take part in. Make sure that you choose one that is suitable for you.

Taste Testing the Tapas on Study Tours to Barcelona

2011-04-08T09:13:00.000-07:00

For the catering and hospitality student, study tours to Barcelona can involve participants in demonstrations of Spain's most loved appetiser - tapas. Tapas is an essential part of Spanish cuisine and it has been growing in popularity across the globe. In its most basic form, it is a small snack or appetiser taken with a drink at lunch or early eveninf. Tapas, however, is not merely a type of dish: it is a Spanish style of eating where conversation and sociability are encouraged as an important part of the ritual. On catering study tours to Barcelona students can learn more about this widely loved cuisine that sits at the very heart of Spanish culture.

Origin

The origins of tapas continues to be the subject of controversy, but a common theory is that is that it began with the practise of placing a slice of bread or ham atop one's glass of wine to keep insects out. The word 'tapas' literally means 'cover' or 'lid.' Another theory suggests that tapas became ingrained in Spanish culture, when illness forced the Spanish king, Alfonso the 10th to eat small bits of food with wine between meals. It is said that once the king recovered, he decreed that no wine should be served in the land of Castile without accompanying food. This was meant to discourage the poorer people from drinking on empty stomachs. These are just two of the many theories students can debate on their study tours. However it originated, Spanish tapas quickly evolved into elaborate morsels that now vary from region to region. Today, it represents Spanish lifestyle and plays a role in tourism with many tapas tours on offer.

Tapas tours

On Spanish study tours focusing on catering or hospitality, students can discover the diverse and extensive range of tapas produced across the country's different regions. Each region's tapas tends to have varying compositions and ingredients, depending on historical and cultural influences. There are many types of tapas, including meat tapas, seafood, vegetables, and spicy dishes - among many others. The region of Andalucia, for instance, is famed for its fish, shellfish, olives and fried foods and these tend to be the main ingredients in the tapas of the region. The Central Plain produces Spain's most popular cheese - Manchego - and is well known for its roasted pork and lamb. The Basque province, on the other hand, is known for its fish and seafood and tends to have larger portions of tapas.

Among the most common ingredients of tapas students will learn about on their study tours are olives, olive oil, Serrano ham, chorizo sausages and Manchego cheese. Some of the more popular Spanish tapas include gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), tigres, mejillones ellenos (stuffed mussels), calamares a la Romana (fried squid rings), and jamon, queso y chorizo con pan (ham, cheese and chorizo with bread).