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Turkish tee-hee: Scapegoat (2011)


Turkish tee-hee: Scapegoat (2011)

In 2011, Turkish porn-star Sahin Ka made his mainstream cinema debut. His role: ex-porn-star Sahin K, who leaves Berlin for Bodrum in an attempt to start a new, better life. The plot: some dangerous people in the dubious industry don't want to let this important source of income go. It turns out to be very difficult for Sahin to be incognito in his home country. The result: a colourful, crack-up comedy called Scapegoat.

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GPS Competition - Win the TomTom XL IQ (UK, ROI, EU)


satnav competition

We're challenging all bloggers to convince us that TomTom XL IQ is their ideal holiday partner. All you need to do to be in the running is post a story, article or picture about losing or finding your way on your own blog, embed the competition banner in your blogpost and leave a comment on our site with the web address of your entry.

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A splash of American History


A splash of American History

There's no denying that Florida is famous for its rollercoasters, waterslides and theme parks. These features attract about 60 million visitors every year - the equivalent of the entire population of the UK! Though it's true that tourism is the largest sector of Florida's economy, the historic background of this is equally fascinating.

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Do or Don't: bringing your smartphone or tablet on a holiday


Do or Don't: bringing your smartphone or tablet on a holiday

You've got this lovely new toy - be it an iPhone, iPad or Android equivalent - and more than anything, you'd like to take it with you wherever you go. Even when you're going on vacation. You could download all these awesome apps with maps and it could help you discover hidden gems of your destination. But is it really a good idea? Or will roaming cost a fortune and will your gadget upset your travel buddy while making you a likely target for pickpockets?
What would you do?

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Full throttle holiday


rally gran canaria

Growling engines, screeching tyres, fumes of burning rubber, cheering pit girls, the hot sun on the tarmac and a refreshing breeze that smells of the sea... From 15th - 17th of March 2012, Gran Canaria will be the ultimate pit stop for motorsports fans from all over the world as the island will host the 36th edition of the Canary Islands Rally.

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The Prophet's birthday


mosque

It may have been over 1400 years ago, people throughout the Islamic world will be celebrating the birthday of Muhammad ibn Abdullah again soon. In countries such as Pakistan, India and Indonesia, homes and mosques are decorated and people take part in carnivalesque street processions. In other areas, it is a quiet, respectful event where children recite poetry and parents tell children stories about the Prophet's birth, youth and adult life.

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Discover Unspoilt Lanzarote


lanzarote island

For the ultimate holiday escape, you don't have to travel to the other side of the world. Flights to Lanzarote can have you living the Robinson Crusoe life in only four and a half hours. Whilst Lanzarote may conjure up visions of tourists and hectic night-life - and there is plenty of that, if you want it - many people don't realise just how much of the island remains authentic. For those who like to visit places that are a little bit different and off the beaten track, Lanzarote has plenty of hidden treasures.

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Happy New Year!


happy new year

There are as many lovely ways to celebrate the year's end as there are families celebrating it. True party animals may have booked flights to Sharm el Sheik, Ibiza or the Canaries to start 2012 dancing to the tunes of world famous DJ's. Others may seek the party a bit closer to home, singing Auld Syne Lang and watching the fireworks at Trafalgar Square or even waiting for the countdown and popping the champagne at their own homes.

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To Tip, Or Not To Tip?


tip restaurant

To tip, or not to tip? That is always a difficult holiday question. With cultures varying so widely around the world, it can be difficult to know what's expected from you. In Egypt, there is little ambiguity. Whilst tipping isn't compulsory, it will definitely be appreciated - and you will get better service in the long run if you do tip. As flights to Sharm el Sheik are very affordable, you may well want to visit the country more than once, so increasing your popularity with a few tips here and there can only be a good thing.

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Winner of the Christmas Luggage Competition!


Christmas tree and baubles

- A Santa hat (to wear on Christmas morning, at dinner, in bed)

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Top 5 Locations In The World For Winter Sun


view of malta

With snow slowly creeping across parts of the UK, what better time to escape in search of some winter sun? If you can't decide where to go, here are just a few suggestions.

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The Brothers Brownlee Swap Rainy Leeds For Sun Drenched Lanzarote


triathlon lanzarote

World triathlon Champion Alistair Brownlee and his brother Jonny, who came second to his brother in Beijing this September, have an unsurprisingly grueling training schedule in the lead up to 2012. The British brothers, who are based at cosy student digs in Leeds, stick to a regimented 35 hours of training a week, including weekends. The pair swim, run and cycle, all before midday, and then go for long runs again in the evening. The boys claim to do 95 percent of their training together and believe their consistent top 10 positions come down to tactical co-operation and teamwork.

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Viral Videos from Spain


Macarena

Watching videos about a country are a fantastic way to get a feel for a place before you go over and spend time there. Especially those videos that the locals themselves are watching. Spain may well be a popular and well-known holiday destination but there's still nothing like viewing its sights and listening to its sounds on film. This Viva Espana video starts with a fabulous fanfare and a flash of the Spanish flag before giving you wonderful overview of Spain. It's a lovely introduction to the country.

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Day of the Immaculate Conception in Spain


fireworks spain

While in the UK we may occasionally hang out a St George flag on April 23rd, that's about as far as our Saint celebrations go in this country. However, in Spain the Saints' days are a chance for Spanish people, Catholic and non-Catholic alike, to celebrate in style with a fiesta, festival or street party. The 8th December is one of the most important of these feast days - the Day of the Immaculate Conception. Jet off for a winter break with flights to Gran Canaria around this time of year and you can become part of one of Spain's most important festivals.

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Limber up for the Cyprus Aphrodite Half Marathon


semi marathon cyprus

If splashing through the dark, rainy streets dodging puddles, car drivers and little old ladies is cramping your running style, why not head off to the sun of Cyprus this month for one of the most popular half marathons in Europe? The 27th November will see runners from all over the world converging on the Cypriot coast to run the Cyprus Aphrodite Half Marathon - a challenging race set amongst some of the finest scenery the island has to offer.

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Father Christmas in Faro


christmas in faro

Christmas in the UK can become more of a stress than a celebration, with crowded shops, checkout queues and motorway traffic, celebrating abroad often works out as a peaceful option as well as being a Christmas to remember. Though it may not be a traditional white yuletide, spending Christmas in the sunny Algarve is less commercial and, culturally, more family orientated, not to mention, a comfortable 15-16 degrees Celsius.

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World Travel Market in London


world travel market in london

This November, the entire world is coming to London. Before you start to worry that it's going to get a bit crowded, we're talking about one of the best travel events in the yearly calendar - the World Travel Market. Today, 7th of November, is the first day of this annual gathering of the great and the good from the travel industry, and this is the perfect opportunity for anyone involved in the business to get the real inside tips from their counterparts from across the globe. Thomas Cook is be there, ensuring that we find out what the 'must-visit' destinations for 2012 are. If you're at the WTM2011 as well today, drop by at the Thomas Cook Sport stand on UK1350 and have your picture taken with the Barclays Premier League trophy.

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Dalaman's Most Exciting Restaurants


borek turkish food

The small agricultural town of Dalaman, on the southwestern coast of Turkey, may not be a place you would expect to find delicious cuisine but its fertile costal landscape provides a delicious bounty certainly worth travelling for. The areas specialties have their roots in traditional Ottoman dishes with plenty of fresh fish, citrus flavors and red meat, all grilled over hot coals.

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The Controversial Sacha Baron Cohen Saddles up in Spain


fuerteventura windsurf

More than 4,000 miles away from the desert wastelands of Iraq, on the sandbanks of Fuerteventura, Sacha Baron Cohen has been spotted shooting his latest satirical offering: 'The Dictator'. After the controversy stirred up in the wake of 'Borat' and 'Bruno' it is not surprising he had to settle for the sunny Spanish resort rather than 'The Dictator's' intended Middle Eastern backdrop.

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Lanzarote, a unique destination


lanzarote sunset beach

Lanzarote is quite unlike anywhere else in the Canary Islands and a unique destination for the discerning visitor. Just 80 miles off the coast of Africa, many parts of the Spanish island are like some kind of alien landscape, thanks to its creation by ancient volcanic eruptions. Of course, there are still plenty of beaches, bars and all-inclusive resorts here, but Lanzarote retains a look and feel that is unmatched elsewhere.

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Get both party nights and lazy beach days in Zante


zante beach view

Zante, or Zakynthos as the Greeks call it, is the third largest of the Ionian Islands, and is the one number choice for many when it comes to planning their summer holiday. An abundance of affordable flights to Zante may have triggered the influx of tourists from the UK and elsewhere, but it's the unique charms of the island that keep them coming back.

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Nadal: his heart lies in Mallorca


mallorca beach

One of the greatest tennis players of all time, Rafael Nadal, has a soft spot for the Balearic Islands. Although he lost the World No. 1 title during Wimbledon this year (he is now ranked No. 2 by the Association of Tennis Professionals), he was photographed radiating happiness on the beaches of Mallorca last month. The Spanish tennis player went to Mallorca to visit his beautiful girlfriend, Maria Francisca Perello (Xisca).

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Lanzarote is the place to be this summer


Lanzarote

As the start of the summer holidays signals a mass exodus to the beaches and resorts of Europe, the relatively stable Pound and a weaker Euro has meant that British holidaymakers are taking advantage of last minute deals to fly off to the sun.

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5 simple tips for spectacular summer snapshots


photography dalaman

We all know what it's like to come home from a dream holiday. You're all tanned and relaxed and you can't wait to impress your friends with photos of the wonderful buildings, beaches and beautiful girls that you've seen. It can be quite a disappointment to discover that most of your photos are either out of focus, overexposed, quickly shot or badly posed. You'll be glad to hear that these problems can easily be avoided and with just a bit more forethought and effort, your acceptable snapshot can be raised to the level of art. Check out our top 5 photography tips for travellers who have booked flights to Dalaman or one of our other sun-blessed holiday destinations!

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Festivals in Faro


lighthouse in faro

The best way to make a holiday really memorable is to immerse yourself in the local culture. Faro is renowned for playing host to some of the most prominent festivals and fiestas in the whole of the Algarve - and the low cost and convenience of flights to Faro makes them easily accessible all year round. Whether you're interested in sporting events, religious festivals or cultural celebrations, Faro is the Portuguese HQ for a range of vibrant and spectacular parties.

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Day of the Cross


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There are a lot of different festivals and events that are held within Arrecife and this allows the area to have an impressive calendar of events. There are a lot of notable festivals that are held within this area and one of the liveliest is held during February. A lot of people from all across the world come to this area in order to join in with the various festivities and they use the flights to Arrecife.

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Fiesta of Corpus Christi


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There are a lot of festivals and events that are held within Lanzarote. The town of Arrecife is the capital of Lanzarote. A lot of the festivals and events within this area attract a number of people from all across the world and the flights to Arrecife make this easy to do. There are a lot of tourists that plan their holiday around an event that they would like to enjoy.

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Diving Festival in Bodrum


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The town of Bodrum holds a couple of big events, which are held on an annuals basis and these are popular with tourists and locals. There are some tourists that use the flights to Bodrum in order to join in with the diving festival that this area offers. The diving festival takes place during the middle part of May and it is organized by the underwater society of Bodrum. This festival features a range of different things, which includes demonstrations and also exhibitions on the history of diving and the equipment that is used for diving.

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Bodrum Bicycle Festival


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There are no large festivals that are held within the town of Bodrum but there are a couple of festivals that take place within this area. The main events within this town are connected to feasting and fasting and they are known as Ramadan and Eid ul-Adha. There is a number of main events that attract tourists who use the flights to Bodrum and the bicycle festival is just one of them.

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Palmas De Mallorca International Boat Show


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There are a lot of festivals that are held within Mallorca and most of these are held on an annual basis. The International boat show that is known as Palmas de Mallorca is held within the popular resort of Mallorca. The locals refer to this boat show as Salo Nautic and this show focuses on people that enjoy sailing as a recreational sport. This boat show can be classed as a floating exhibition and it normally involves three hundred different boats. A lot of people use the flights to Mallorca in order to experience the international boat show.

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Art Festivals and Events In Turkey


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There are over one hundred festivals that take place all across Turkey and due to the frequent flights to Turkey they attract people from all across the world. There are local festivals organized in all the different cities, which are located in Turkey and a lot of these festivals have an element of international culture. These festivals are held in most of the main cities, which includes Izmir, Antalya and also Istanbul to name a few. The city of Istanbul is the main area for international culture and this is reflected in the art festivals that are held within this city.

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Medieval Festival in Ibiza


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There is a wide range of different festivals that take place within the resort of Ibiza. All tastes and ages will be able to find something to do and see on the island. One of the most popular festivals within this resort is the Medieval Festival. This festival is a favorite with both tourists and locals. A lot of the tourists that enjoy this festival also enjoy making use of the regular flights to Ibiza. The medieval festival of Ibiza has been devised to celebrate the time that Dalt Vila was named a world site for heritage. This festival normally takes place during the second weekend of May.

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Maritime and Spring Festival in Dalaman


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There is a number of annual events and festivals that take place within Dalaman and the Maritime and Spring Festival is just one of these. This annual event takes place within the resort that is known as Marmaris. This festival will include a range of different things and this includes musical concerts, sporting competitions, street performances and a range of other parties. This event is very popular with both locals and tourists alike. A lot of the tourists that enjoy this festival also enjoy the regular flights to Dalaman.

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Maritime and Spring Festival in Dalaman


image of dalaman

There is a number of annual events and festivals that take place within Dalaman and the Maritime and Spring Festival is just one of these. This annual event takes place within the resort that is known as Marmaris. This festival will include a range of different things and this includes musical concerts, sporting competitions, street performances and a range of other parties. This event is very popular with both locals and tourists alike. A lot of the tourists that enjoy this festival also enjoy the regular flights to Dalaman.

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Water Sports in Ibiza


image of ibiza

The island of Ibiza is a perfect location for water sports as the water temperatures between May and August tends to be between eighteen and twenty six degrees so grab your goggles and flights to ibiza. This island is perfect for a wide range of different water sports that includes jet skiing, water skiing, sailing, parasailing, relaxing pedalo and also banana boats to name some of the many water sports that are on offer within this area.

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Aqua City in Mallorca


image of mallorca

There is a large number of different water parks that are located across Mallorca and this area is home to some of the best water parks anywhere in the world. These water parks are very popular with both locals and tourists alike. A lot of the tourists that enjoy spending time at these water parks also enjoy the frequent flights to Mallorca. There is a lot of things for people to do within this area however this water park will be able to fill at least one full day.

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Beaches in Antalya


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A lot of tourists use the cheap flights to Antalya in order to enjoy the spectacular beaches that are on offer in this area. The beaches in Antalya are prefect for both tourists and locals that enjoy the sunshine. These beaches are one of the most popular attractions within this area and this is especially the case on a fantastic, sunny and warm day. The main beaches within this area can get very busy during the peak summer season as almost all of the visitors in this area will want to spend time on the beach. There are some water front hotels that have their own private beaches; therefore these may be worth considering. There is a vast amount of tourists that come to this area every year in order to enjoy the beach and also the vast array of other attractions that are on offer within this area.

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Western Water Park in Mallorca


image of mallorca

The Western Water Park is located within Mallorca and it is a very popular attraction for both locals and tourists alike. This attraction is a great place for thrill seekers and it has a vast array of different rides, which are perfect for people of all ages. One of the most popular attractions within the park is the slide that is known as the Kamikaze and this slide has a drop of thirty meters therefore it is perfect for people that enjoy thrilling rides. This water park is very popular with tourists that come from all across the world and make use of the cheap regular flights to Mallorca.

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Palma de Mallorca International Boat Show


boat show

The Palma de Mallorca International boat show is an annual event, which is held in Mallorca. This boat show is known locally as Salo Nautic and it focuses on sailing as a recreation. This international boat show is an annual event, which can be classed as a floating exhibition featuring more than three hundred boats. There are a lot of people that make the most of the cheap flights to Mallorca in order to enjoy this boating festival.

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European Diving Center in Dalaman


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The European Diving Center has been offering a range of scuba diving, diving courses and dive holidays, which are all of very good quality. These facilities have all been on offer since 1989. This diving center is very popular with people from all across the world that are interested in diving. A lot of these people make the most of the regular cheap flights to Dalaman. This diving center is owned and operated by British people and it was originally established within the town of Fethiye, which is in Turkey.

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Gorge of Hell in Tenerife


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Barranco del Infierno is another name that is given to Gorge of Hell. This is a very popular tourist attraction that is only a short drive from the busy resorts that are known as Las Americas and Los Cristianos. This gorge is located high up above the area that is known as Adeje. It is true to say that this gorge is a paradise of natural beauty and it is enjoyed by a vast array of people who enjoy the spectacular beauty of the flora and fauna within Tenerife. A lot of the people that enjoy this spectacular scenery make the most of the cheap flights to Tenerife.

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Lycian Rock Tombs in Dalaman


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Although the Lycian Rock tombs may sound a little morbid or creepy however it is actually a very popular attraction with tourists who enjoy the cheap flights to Dalaman. These tombs have some very fun architecture but in the area of Lycia, which is located on the southern Turkish coast. These tombs are very popular with people that have an interest in ancient culture and architecture.

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Mud Baths in Dalaman


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Dalaman in Turkey is a place of natural beauty and it is situated between mountains and sea. This is a very popular area with tourists as it is close to both place of geographical interest and also places of historical interest These places of interest include ancient tombs and mud baths to name a couple of the attractions. There are a lot of people that come to the area to enjoy everything that is on offer and they make the most of the cheap regular flights to Dalaman.

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Hippy Markets in Ibiza


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There are a lot of different markets that are held within the popular tourist resort of Ibiza. This resort is very popular with tourists that come from all across the world and they make the most of the cheap flights to Ibiza. One of the most popular markets within Ibiza is the Hippy Markets. This popular resort is home to a vast number of different tourist shops, which can be enjoyed alongside the hippy market. There is a number of different hippy markets within the area. In the resort of Santa Eularia the hippy market is held on a Wednesday and it runs from April until October and this market is home to more than four hundred different stalls which sell a wide range of items including leather goods, silver and some even sell African art. In the resort of Las Dalias the hippy market is held on a Saturday and it runs from May until October.

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Windsurfing in FuerteVentura


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The island of FuerteVentura is fifty miles in length and the island is between two and fifteen miles in width. There is some unused volcanic wasteland that is located within the Atlantic Ocean. The island of FuerteVentura is about three and half-hours from the United Kingdom and it is possible to purchase cheap regular flights to FuerteVentura. The island of FuerteVentura is home to some really good winds therefore this is the prefect location for windsurfing. The best time for windsurfing on the island is between May and September.

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White Water Rafting in Dalaman


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There are a lot of tourists who enjoy regular flights to Dalaman in order to undertake some white water rafting. One of the most popular areas in Turkey for white water rafting is Dalaman River. This river has deep canyons, which are green in color. This part of Dalaman is home to some natural features, which still remain untouched and there are more than twelve rapids.

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Monte Toro in Menorca


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Monte Toro is located on the highest point of Menorca in Es Mercadal. This highest point has a height of three hundred and fifty two meters. The legend of Monte Toro is that a bull found a statue, which was of the Virgin and it was found within a cleft on the rock. The name of the peak however is more likely to have come from Arabic's. The name al-tor means the highest mountain. This highest point is very popular with tourists and a lot of them make the most of the flights to Menorca. There is a convent that is located at the top of the peak and this convent is home to the Franciscan nuns. The convent is open to the public on the first Sunday within May.

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Prado Museum in Spain


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The Prado Museum is located in Madrid, which is the capital of Spain. This museum is home to a vast collection of artwork that was crafted by Fernando the seventh and other royalty members. The Prado Museum is one of the only museums that will allow the visitors to take no flash photograph of the collection that is within the museum. This museum is open six days a week and it is closed on a Monday. A lot of people that visit this area and this museum enjoy the regular flights to Spain from anywhere in the world.

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Mosta Dome in Malta


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Malta is a very popular tourist destination and the attractions reflect about seven years of history. There is a vast amount of things to see and do in Malta. There is a lot of spectacular scenery in this area and this includes a lot of rich architecture. There are a lot of rich colors within the local area and this includes the honey colored stones and deep clear blue waters of the Mediterranean. A lot of the tourists that visit this area make the most of the regular flights to Malta. One of the most popular tourist attractions is known as Mosta Dome and this is a catholic church that has been built in Malta.

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Smugglers Cave in Ibiza


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Ibiza is a very popular tourist destination and this may be due to the frequent flights to Ibiza. Ibiza is an island that is located in the Mediterranean Sea and it is about seventy-nine kilometers from the coast of Valencia in Spain. There are a vast number of luxurious holiday villas within this area and these all tend to have a swimming pool. This island is one of the most popular Spanish destinations for tourists that want to get away and enjoy the sun and sand. There are a lot of tourists that return to the area year after year.

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Boat Excursions in Kefalonia


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Kefalonia is one of the biggest Ionian Islands and it is one of the modern popular tourist destinations. The flights to Kefalonia make this a very popular destination with people from all across the world. There are some tour operators that have been operating on this island for over twenty years. There is a lot of the things on the island that cater for a vast array of different tastes and this includes luxurious sandy beaches, water sports, excellent food and local wines and also wonderful photography opportunities and luxurious scenery.

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Kassope in Preveza


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Kassope is an ancient town that is located within Preveza. Kassope is considered to be one of the best cities that is built along the banks of the Hippodamian plan within Greece. Kassope is located on the southeastern slopes of the Zalongo Mountain and it is close to the village of Zalongo. This is a popular tourist destination and this is assisted with the regular flights to Preveza.

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Deer Dama Dama in Rhodes

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There are several places in Greece that are well known worldwide for their architectural heritage, beaches, especially along the various islands and their natural wonders. Rhodes is one such Greek island that is located at a distance of 18 km SW of Turkey towards from the Aegean Sea. Rhodes is the largest among the Dodecanese islands not just in area but its population too. Rhodes has an airport so traveling to the island is easy as there are constant flights to Rhodes.

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Faro Archaeological Museum in Faro

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Faro is a great place to be in Portugal. Its foundations were started in Roman era and the town of Faro at the time was referred to as Ossonoba. In the 9th century Faro happened to be the capital of a princedom which could be retained as such for a very short time. This princedom was characterized by defensive walls and many decades later the name was changed to Santa Maria and then to Harune. Ultimately Faro was made a part of Portugal during the 13th century. Traveling to Faro for the purpose of tourism is an excellent idea as it is directly accessible by air. Flights to Faro from a number of European and other countries are also quite regular.

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Bakau in Banjul


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Banjuls climate is subtropical characterized by two distinct seasons out of which one is dry and the other is rainy. The most appropriate time to go on a vacation to Banjul falls between November to April, when the sea shores are most lively and sunbathing is something you will definitely enjoy. Banjul has an airport of its own and flights to Banjul are quite regular. Many European airlines fly to Banjul since the time tourism has gained momentum.

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Agios Stefanos in Kos


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Kos is known for tourism all over Europe. The total population of Kos is barely 32,000. It is easy to reach Kos. If you dont get direct flights to Kos from your own country then you can first take a flight to Athens and then get to Kos. From May to October, there are several flights from major European airports to Kos. Kos Island International Airport provides a wide range of flights to other countries as well. Christian Basilicas at the beach of Agios Stefanos is one of the most well known places at Kos.

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Municipal Natural Reserve of the Hermitage of the Magdalena in Las Palmas


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Las Palmas is a well known tourist destination that not only welcomes visitors with a warm weather but also warm people. Las Palmas has an airport that is 11 miles from the city of Las Palmas. Flights to Las Palmas can be boarded from anywhere in Europe. Frequency of flights may be slightly lesser in other countries. Apart from the churches and other attractions the presence of Mary Magdelene can be felt through the Hermitage of Magdelena located within Las Palmas. The area is maintained by the Municipality Castellon de la Plana and the total land area is 14.05 hectares. It is the natural setting here that impresses the visitors the most.

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The Church of Ayios Lazaros in Larnaca


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The town of Larnaca is large and modern enough to provide travelers with everything they may need but yet it does not remain overcrowded. Even the nearby beaches are least crowded and extend for about 25 km. Flights to Larnaca can be booked in advance for convenient travel and relaxed vacation. Larnaca has several archaeological sites along with 6 museums located in the middle of the city. Some of the adventures include cruises, summer sports and sea activities.

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Hadrians Gate in Antalya


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Antalya attracts several visitors with its beautiful natural setting as well as historical riches every year. The bright and attractive combination of the deep blue sea, the sun and the mountains covered with thick layer of trees is not found easily together everywhere. If you are planning your holidays you must consider visiting Antalya. There are regular flights to Antalya and traveling to this beautiful place will not be a problem.

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Ghadira Nature Reserve in Malta


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Malta has been a wonderful and most sought after tourist destination from the very beginning. The beautiful city of Malta has been gaining a lot of popularity for its well maintained beaches, the Grand Harbor, The old town, The Island named Gozo and Comino is yet another destination for various wet adventures. Though reaching Malta is easy as flights to Malta are almost on a regular basis, being a popular tourist destination you must plan your trip in advance. BirdLife Malta, as the name suggests, creates a natural habitat for birds from a number of remote areas of Europe.

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Dalt Vila in Ibiza


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Ibiza is one of the most picturesque islands among other Balearic Islands and is widely known for its white houses. For the same reason the island is called as a White island. It is an undisputed tourist destination for party goers from all over the world. Ibiza has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and the entertainment for visitors is incomparable to any of the islands in any other part of the world. Catalan is the official language of the island but you will find people speaking in Spanish. You can plan your holiday to Ibiza at any time of the year. Ibiza is reachable by air and flights to Ibiza are available almost every day from a number of locations.

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Caretta at Daylan in Dalaman


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Dalaman is located towards western region of Turkey. It is full of natural setting all around, with hills and sea to provide fresh new look to the region every single day. Dalaman is still developing as a tourist spot but the hot springs and mud baths, rock tombs, Iztuzu beach, caunos ruins and Caretta turtles are some of the most fascinating places at Dalaman that any visitor or tourist cannot afford to miss. It is ideal to reach Dalaman by air as there are several flights to Dalaman from a number of domestic and international airports. The best time to reach Dalaman is early part of the spring season to the end of autumn.

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Las Aguilas Jungle Park in Teneriffe


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Tenerife is a bustling city with some amazing tourist spots to explore. You can take flights to Tenerife and plan a stay of about 8 to 10 days to fully enjoy the warmth and attraction of the city. It is full of monuments, museums, pubs, beaches and many other things. Las Aguilas Jungle Park is a unique animal shelter in form of a naturally maintained jungle that will not fail to attract you no matter what your age.

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Bourguiba Mosque in Monastir


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The Big Mosque at Monastir a great site that you can explore during the day. Dont forget to have a look at it during night also as it looks fabulous with lights all around making it a spectacular monument you wouldnt want to miss.

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The Arab Baths in Palma de Mallorca


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Palma is dated back to the initial Roman settlement that inhabited the present day city of Palma, although the region primarily belonged to the Bronze Age settlements that inhabited the same site. After the initial settlements the region was invaded by Arabs, who kept Madina Mayurqa as its name. King Jaime I who ruled the regions of Aragon and Valencia conquered it in 1229. At this time Palma had become significant for trade but ongoing raids by the Turkish pirates during the 17th century robbed the city of its trade centre. The settlement regained its balance only when Charles III revived the trade with the Indies.

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Aphrodites Rock in Paphos


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Paphos, located towards southwest of Cyprus, is well known for its magnificent beaches, cultural treasures and natural environment that never fails to impress visitors coming from all parts of the world. Paphos is accessible by air. You will find several domestic and international flights to Paphos every day.

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The fortress of Isabella II on La Mola


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Menorca is an ideal holiday destination for those looking for some peace and quiet. Apart from beaches and partying, the history of the place cannot be ignored. Whether you are planning your trip in winters or summers, there are several flights to Menorca throughout the year. however, peak season sees a large crowd and you may have to book your flight well in advance.

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Koukounaries Beach in Skiathos

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Skiathos is a scenic and wooded island that is several times greener than other places in Greece. Getting here isnt difficult as there are several direct flights to Skiathos from a number of international locations. Skiathos boasts of 60 to 70 sporty beaches spread out over several kilometers. Some of them may be crowded but the enthusiasm around cannot be compared to any of the other paces in Greece. If you want to have all the beach fun during your vacation then Skiathos is the place to be. Some of the beaches are quieter and might be empty during the early evenings. Since Skiathos is not a massive island, it can be traveled across in just a few hours. This is provided you have hired a speed boat. A local caique can provide you with some leisurely 5 to 6 hours across the lakes.

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Menorca Naveta des Tudons


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The Naveta des Tudons is a great tourist destination located a couple of miles from Ciutadella. Naveta des Tudons is at the right side on the road leading to Mahon. It is a construction done during the megalithic era and is believed to represent Menorcas archeological heritage. The city can be reached by air as several commercial airlines have flights to Menorca all through the year.

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Banjul Albert Craft Market


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People come to the city of Banjul to enjoy its different aspects, some are lured by its scenic beaches, while others would like to track down its historic past. The city bustles with activity as you move among shops and houses. The National Museum, Court House and the Heritage Museum are some of the main attractions at Banjul. There are several flights to Banjul from every major international airport in the world, including charter flights by Thomas Cook Airlines from different parts of Europe.

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Kefalonia Assoss Castle


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The Assos Castle is one of the places worth visiting when you come to Kefalonia. Flights to Kefalonia can be taken from any major international airport and land at the Kefalonia airport, about 9 km from the islands capital, Argostoli.

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Paphos Cyprus International 4 Day Challenge


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The Cyprus International 4 Day Challenge is an event that brings out the adventurous streak in participants. Those who want to participate or maybe witness the event can catch a flight to Paphos from any major international airport nearest to your city. The event mixes conventional road running and remarkable trail running through a National Park called Akamas National Park situated in Paphos. The participants take part in 4 events and the final winner is the person who achieves best scores in all four events.

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Paragliding Festival Tenerife


paragliding in tenerife

Paragliding is probably one of the most adventurous and exhilarating sports in the world, probably close to bungee jumping. It is also one of the easiest things to learn if you are interested in adventure sports. Every year the International Paragliding Festival is organized by the Town Council of Los Realejos. The idea behind starting this festival was to promote the flight area of Los Realejos along with booting the tourism in the region. Though Tenerife is quite famous for other activities and events, most holidaymakers look to indulge in some adventure activity during their time off. Water sports are quite famous all over the world, however paragliding as an activity for foreign visitors is quite unique.

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Burgas Sand Sculpture Festival


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If you think making sand castles is difficult, you will be left speechless by the Sand Sculpture Festival held every year at Burgas. Sand art has truly evolved from making simple sand structures on the beach to more professional works displayed on different occasions all over the world, Burgas being one of them. The festival is a must see if you are planning your holiday in the months of July-August. Flights to Burgas can be easily booked online through the Thomas Cook website.

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Funchal Madeira Islands Walking Festival


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Planning your trip to Funchal. Dont forget to pack your walking shoes for the amazing walking festival held at Madeira. Funchal makes a great place for a holiday all through the year, being a region with sub tropical weather. The Walking Festival held every year in January presents a great opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty of Madeira in the most natural way possible, that is, by simply walking along the natures trail. Started by writer photographer, Terry Marsh, the festival has become quite popular, attracting several visitors from Europe as well as other parts of the world. The main airport being at Funchal, the only way to reach Madeira is by catching a flight to Funchal. There are several airlines offering their services to Funchal, both through major international airports and via different European cities.

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Interfest Festival of Classical Music, Bitola


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Interfest is an internationally acclaimed festival that celebrates classical music of Europe. The festival is organized from October 2nd to 12th every year. The festival generally continues for 10 days which are not only enriching but also brings a whole lot of memorabilia to the fore. This is especially true of people fond of music of the 60s and 70s. The festival welcomes renowned musicians and soloists from all over Europe to form a diverse set of musical performances.

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Bodrum Cup


bodrum in turkey

The Bodrum Cup is a grand event held every year since 1989. It is organized usually in the third week every October. The event gives a chance to all the sailing enthusiasts to sail through Turkeys incredibly exciting south western waters which mark the intersection of the Aegean and the Mediterranean Sea. To begin with, you will have to reach Bodrum in Turkey. There are several flights to Bodrum from different parts of the world. For instance, if you are located anywhere in the United States then you can fly via Turkish Airlines to directly reach Bodrum.

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Procession of St Lazarus


larnaca landscape

Larnacas residents welcome the procession of their patron, St Lazarus, with great cheer. The portrait of Saint Lazarus is brought from the St Lazarus Church for a while. It is then taken through the procession covering all the streets of Larnaca. The procession is led by the priest, who provides a service just before starting off from the church. The feast day of the St Lazarus is considered to be a significant event and the liveliness of Cypriots becomes quite evident during the procession. It is great experience and Larnaca is worth visiting at this time of the year.

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Tenerife Wine Bus


enjoying the peace of tenerife

The Tenerife Wine Route is an association that is not for profit. It was established in 2005 and consists of close to 50 members. The aim behind its establishment is to generate awareness about the traditional and cultural wine growing that forms part of Tenerifes heritage. Foreign visitors who want to experience something unique can hop on to this bus. It is indeed a welcome tourist option that not just promotes Tenerifes wines but also takes you to the nitty gritties of running vineyards and preparing wines. There are several flights to Tenerife from many parts of the world. From London you can reach Tenerife through Thomas cook flights. You can also fly from Liverpool to Tenerife through Ryanair airlines.

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Malta National Day Celebrations

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Caves in Malta

The National Day celebrations of Malta were held on May 14 at the Shanghai World Expo. The celebration began at the Pavilion and continued with other events to display the rich heritage of the country. The evening was made special and extremely memorable by a concert from Maltese tenor Joseph Calleja held in the Expo Center.

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Zakynthos Carnival


cove in zakynthos

The Zakynthian carnival is one of the most fun filled and zealous festivals of the world. The beginning of the celebration of Zakynthos Carnival dates back to the time when Venetians ruled the island. It is also said it is based on imitation of the Commedia dell Arte organized by Italians and the Venetian carnival. One of the Commedia dell Arte performances is proved to have occurred in Crete during 1611.

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Sharm el Sheikh Sham el Nessim


sharm

The date of celebrating the festival is decided by the Coptic calendar. The festival celebrates the beginning of the harvesting season. Shemu stands for revival of life and onset of the harvesting season. The festival is marked by a great feast in which certain things have to be consumed. The offerings during the feast also hold great significance.

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Larnaca The Mediterranean Festival of Traditional Dance


larnca

The traditional dance festival of Larnaca is something to be cherished throughout life especially of you are a dance lover. The performances are so euphoric and full of enthusiasm that you will forget you belong to another place. It is a festival but has a competitive touch to it and groups from all over the continent participate in it.

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Carnival in Las Palmas


scene of las palmas

If you are a resident of Spain you sure may be looking forward to the Carnival of Las Palmas, but if you are a visitor or going to visit Las Palmas, be ready to get shocked and enjoy it too. Gran Canarias party also called the carnival is a grand event of the year. It extends to 3 weeks at a stretch and starts before Lent. You can plan your vacation in Las Palmas in a way that you are able to attend the main events such as the popular Drag Queen Day held in January. Flights to Las Palmas are available from all the major cities of Europe.

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Heraklion Summer Festival

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sea side of herakloin

As summers approach you can get ready to expect a world of art and culture at Heraklion. Starting in July till late September each year, the city of Heraklion situated on a Greek island Crete hosts a small arts festival. Although it is a small scale festival but people involved in art are attracted to places that are not too loud or too noisy. If you are one of those art lovers then Crete is worth visiting at least once in your lifetime. Flights to Heraklion can be taken from any part of the world and can even be booked online. Apart from the summer arts festival, there are many places you will find interesting.

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Paphos Anthestiria Flower Festival


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There is no one in the world who does not get attracted to the colorful fragrant flowers. It does not matter which color you are fond of. When you enter an area completely carpeted by flowers and only flowers, you will probably lose your senses. This is what the Anthestiria Flower Festival is all about! You can also expect to be fed well with some amazing varieties of delightful recipes made for the tourists. The festival rouses a great amount of curiosity among people all over the world and hordes of tourists visit Paphos during this time of the year. The weather is amazingly pleasant and the view of these vivacious flowers unfailingly impresses everyone.

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Kurban Bayram Antalya


kurban bayram Antalya

In lives of Muslims a visit to Mecca to be a part of the pilgrimage called Hajj, holds great religious significance. Hajj is considered to be the 5th pillar of Islam. Every Muslim needs to participate in Hajj at least once in his life. It is applicable for both males and females. They should be in a good financial condition and should be in pink of health. The two requirements are kept so that they are able to successfully fulfill this service in their lives. Participating in Hajj is an expression of devotion to their Allah. The pilgrimage is carried out annually and several Muslims across the globe strive to be a part of it.

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Malta Festa - The Village Feast


Still waters of malta

With a festa being held almost every weekend, its hard not to bump into one of these during your holiday in Malta. No matter which time of year you visit Malta, you are sure to find at least one festa being organized in one of the villages. Its hard to believe that such a small island can have so many events in a single year. Its strategic location left it bare to several attacks, where the country ended up being ruled by Greek, Roman, French and British rulers. This is probably the reason for its unique culture and a whopping 60 festas held every year from May to September.

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flora burgas flower exhibition


burgas

Burgas, a seaside resort and the most important port in Bulgaria, is a mix of old and new structures, with tapered roofs on one side and skyscrapers on the other. Apart from the usual sightseeing and spending time on the beach, you can also look forward to numerous events and festivals held in the city.

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sanford pottery festival


sanford

Pottery is one of the oldest professions and art forms in the world, where the earliest pottery discovered dates back to more than 18,000 years. Interestingly, this art form has remained untouched by technology and is still hand-made using wheels. The Sanford Pottery Festival is held with the aim of promoting this art. It is the largest event held in North Carolina which is famous for its pottery in the entire world, Seagrove being the pottery capital.

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The Manaki Brothers International Film Camera Festival


stunning hills and landscape of monastir

White sandy beaches dotted with tourists greet you as your flight to Monastir lands at the airport. Well, there is much to look forward to no matter what time of the year you plan your trip. Apart from getting the much needed sun, the city has a lot to offer in the form of shopping, restaurants, festivals and events.

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Matances de Bujots in Menorca


beautiful cove in menorca

The unusual tradition of Matances de Bujots marks the Easter Sunday in Menorca. The event involves hanging of effigies of prominent figures which, for some strange reason, are then targeted by marksmen. The term Bujot means a rag doll, which actually stands for someone without any character or personality.

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Union of the Ionian Islands


kefalonia in Greece

The rich history and culture of Kefalonia is marked by the numerous festivals and events held throughout the year. After a round of museums, castles, monasteries and other places of interest, attending the festivals at Kefalonia can be a great addition to your holiday package.

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The Carnival at Corfu


corfu

Whether you like cultural events or not, the Carnival at Corfu is sure to get you celebrating for no real reason. However, the locals have enough reason to rejoice, as the carnival marks end of evil and beginning of a new year, free from sins. This is the purpose behind the carnival, where Ancient Greeks celebrated it in the beginning of spring to appease the Gods, and get a good harvest throughout the year. Held in February end or beginning of March, it is quite a popular event in the region.

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Preveza Womens Carnival


Preveza

Being strategically located, Preveza changed several hands before joining Greece as a state. Your flights to preveza greece will actually land you at the Aktio airport, which is situated across the mouth of the Ambracian Gulf. Different historical structures and the atmosphere of the town itself narrate its history, which was ridden by war and occupation by Venice, France and Turkey. Today, the town invites everybody, from holiday goers to history enthusiasts, to explore its rich past and enjoy its natural beauty.

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malta guide art holidays


Malta

For such a small country, the Mediterranean islands of Malta have a rich and vibrant history. With North African and Arabic influences, theres been an incredible mix of rulers and occupiers over the centuries, yet all of these markson this beautiful, sunny nation create something individual with a distinct andcharming character.

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year-round festivities in lanzarote


Footbridge over the ocean and palm trees.

If you are a big fan of carnivals, festivals and any forms of parties, then Lanzarote is the place to be. This island hosts a vast number of events for any one calendar year and of course, 2010 is no different. Some of their famous festivities have already occurred, but you can attend those next year if you missed them this year. They are the February carnivals, the festivities for Holy Week at Marchs end, the Day of the Cross celebrations in May, Junes Lanzarotes Corpus Christi celebrations and of course the Heineken Jazz festival which takes place every July.

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dalaman in turkey is a wonderful place for a vacation


dalyan river in mountains in turkey asia

There are tons of exciting activities and events to keep vacationers happy and productive. Dalaman has an annual festival that is kept at the end of June and it generally lasts for three days each year. Of course, the next Kas Lycia festival, as it is called, will be taking place at the end of June 2011. This festival involves the union and participation of local folk dancers and international ones. It is a very colorful and festive event.

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medieval festival of rhodes


rooftops of Larnaca Cyprus with cypress trees and Troodos mountains in background

Medieval Rhodes Festival will happen next in May-June 2011. It is an annual festival organized by the Medieval Rose Foundation along with the co-operation from the Municipality of Rhodes. The event happens in Perfecture of Dodecanese which is a cultural and architectural heritage monument of the world.

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Festivity Non stop on the Gran Canaria Island


View of sea from High ground

The Canary Islands are located in Spain and are known for their year round festivities. Gran Canaria as the name suggests, is one of the largest islands within the set and it lives up to the name by offering a calendar of events that makes the island worth visiting any time of the year. The vents are often kept in and around the area of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria which is also the capital of the island. Many of the big festivals took place earlier in the year, but there are still many more to come. You may have missed the Music festival in January; the Opera festival in February or even the Jazz Festival in July, but they will be here again next year and there are still many of the good ones that you can still experience this year.

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Alive after 5, Hometown Motown


Midnight waters of Florida

Jamming with Celery City A.K.A Sanford Bearing the nicknames of Celery City and Bokey City, Sanford is one of the cities in Florida that travellers and passionate adventurers must take route. It acquires a land area of 19.11 square miles and 3.49 square miles of water both of which comprise the whole make up of 22.60 square miles for the whole city.

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Have a blast at the Hurghada International Festival


Triathlon in Egypt, Hunghada

The city of Hurghada was once famous for being a sleepy inactive fishing town. But things have changed over a period of a few years and now the once sleepy town has surprisingly evolved into a global tourist hotspot. Earlier, the city was wrapped under a huge influence of Egyptian and Islamic cultures alone. However, with a higher number of tourists visiting Hurghada, the city has now opened up to western influences. This is easily reflected in the Hurghada International Festival as it is the best amalgamation of the eastern and the western cultures. The essence of the Hurghada International Festival is the Triathlon. Similar to any other Triathlon, Hurghada International Festival is also a combination of three major sports which include swimming, cycling and running.

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Explore Gambia!


sunset mangroves...

This smallest of African nations has more going for it than many countries several times its size. Flights to Banjul International Airport take you in under six hours to the capital city on the west coast. Here you can take time to slip in to the holiday spirit as you bask on one of the famous sandy beaches and plan your itinerary.

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A feast on the Algarve


seafood

Gourmets and gastronauts visiting Southern Portugal this week will surely not want to miss the Festival do Marisco or Shellfish Festival, which takes place in Olhao from the 10th to the 15th of August 2010. This is the 25th year the the town has played host to this celebration of the region's rich heritage of everything to do with seafood.

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Vilamoura for the European Poker Tour


Marina at Vilamoura

At the end of August, the European Poker tour comes once more to the purpose-built marina resort complex of Vilamoura, on Portugal's stunning Algarve coast.

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La Tomatina Festival in Spain


La Tomatina Festival, Spain

There is a week-long preparation that goes into the festival. Many shop owners cover their shops before hand with huge plastic covers as a protection from the mess. There are also few rules to adhere to. It a part of the rule to squash the tomatoes before hurling them at people. However, any objects other than tomatoes are not to be thrown!

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Skiathos Beach Selection


Coastal View Skiathos

On an island like Skiathos, with over 70 beaches and with just a few days to explore them, making a choice can be difficult. Here are a few beach locations to consider when you book your flight to Skiathos.

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Run and Cycle on Lanzarote


Cyclist Blur

Lanzarote's sporting connections are well established. The famous Lanzarote Ironman Triathlon is held there during May every year and athletes use the island as a base for winter training because of its mild weather. During autumn the athletes tend to return to the island and a number of competitive events are organised for them. They are usually open to entry for everyone, so if your fitness is up to standard why not take part?

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Alicante for golf and much more!


Sunset in Alicante

As any golf enthusiast will probably be aware, the Costa Blanca is ideal for a holiday combining sun, sea and nightlife with your favourite sport. With an abundance of flights to Alicante airport, where better to base yourself? There are over 20 excellent golf courses in the Valencia region with two, El Plantio and Alicante Golf, just a short drive from the city.

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Music Festival in Menorca


Guitar strings

Music festivals are very popular on the island of Majorca and its smaller neighbour Menorca. On Mallorca it seems that even smaller towns are organising their own summer music festivals, with jazz proving to be one of the more popular styles. On Menorca, festivals are equally popular and one of the biggest is the annual Music Festival of Mahon, which features mainly classical performances. This festival may be smaller than some of its Mallorcan equivalents, but the quality of the performers is very high.

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International Internet Festival in Tunisia


mausoleum in Monastir

From the 2nd to the 4th of August, Tunisia will celebrate the spread of digital technology with the International Internet Festival. You can't celebrate this festival from behind your computer - if you want to see the ship full of brand new computers and other pinnacles of the latest technology arrive in El Kantaoui Port (Sousse), you're going to have to look for last minute flights to Monastir. Locals and visitors are welcomed onto the ship, where they can try out the flashy equipment.

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Corfu welcomes a new festival


Cricket stumps

Festivals are a constant feature throughout the year with many small local feast days celebrated in towns and villages, the fabulous Sardine Festival at Benitses and the acclaimed Varkarola Music Festival at Paleokastritsa, both held around mid-August. But this year sees a new attraction added - surely unique among the Ionian islands - The Corfu Cricket Festival.

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The Charm of Sharm in November


Ras Mohamed National Park

If you want to make sure you start practicing on time for the Virgin London Marathon in april 2011, book your flights to Sharm now and take part in the half marathon that will be held the 5th of November 2010. The international event called SharMarathon will start at 9.00am in Sharm-El-Sheikh, and the route will lead runners and joggers through Ras Mohamed National Park. The 21.1 km long track passes by Hidden Bay, the salt lake and back to the coast by Yolanda Bay and features sand dunes, rough mountains and mangroves. Even if you're not in shape yet, you don't want to miss out on this stunning setting for a marathon route. If your family is not impressed with your time, just tell them you were distracted by the view.

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Festa de San Gines and the Juego del Palo


tenerife panorama

Between the 15th and 25th of August, the patron saint of Lanzarote's Capital Arrecife is celebrated in style. During the daytime, much of the activity is concentrated around the El Charco area itself, where traditional island sports such as Canarian sailing and wrestling are celebrated and a new Miss Lanzarote is elected annually. The whole event then culminates in an impressive fireworks display on the main beach promenade on the night of the 25th.

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The sweet taste of Turkish honey


Turkish honey

If you are planning a summer holiday to this beautiful province in Turkey, you might want to consider an early booking of your flights to Antalya in order to attend the annual Honey festival which usually takes place on the 15th of August in Gundogmus.

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Celebrate ancient wine from Cyprus


Valley in Cyprus

If you're in Cyprus between the 26th of July and the 1st of August this summer, the Koumandaria Festival may be worth attending. The locals of the Kourris Valley, one of Cyprus' better known wine producing areas near Paphos, celebrates the wine called Koumandaria with this annual festival. You are guaranteed to fall in love with this sweet, amber-coloured dessert wine. The main participating villages are Alassa, Agios Georgios, Doros, Laneia, Monagri and Silikou.

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Help the turtles in Zakynthos


Sea turtle amongst the coral and tropical fish

How about doing something different for your summer holiday without compromising on some R and R on a sandy beach? If you want to satisfy your environmental conscience and spend some time in the sun, then head to the Greek island of Zakynthos this summer.

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Musicas Del Mundo Festival in Alicante


Musicas der Mundo

From the 10th of July to the 21st of August, Alicante will be holding its annual Musicas Del Mundo Festival, translated Music of the World Festival. Musicians from all backgrounds from around the globe will be gathering to play near the city's port area with a total of 8 concerts throughout this time. The opening of this exciting event will be by Colombian pop group Fonseca and on the final day of the Festival, the legendary Flamenco guitarist, Paco De Lucia will be closing the show. Other people playing between these dates are Mexican Pop star, Alejandro Fernandez, Puerto Rican group Calle 13, Richard Bona, Bela Fleck, Dr John and so many more acclaimed musicians. Tickets will cost between 15 and 40 Euros. Money well spent!

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The Santorini Jazz Festival


 santorini

Santorini has a well deserved reputation for its natural geological wonders and the beautiful skafta (cave houses built into the rocks) that will not disappoint the discriminating traveller in search of a truly unforgettable, sun-soaked getaway. Santorini, also known as Thera, is a volcanic island located in the southern Aegean Sea. With panoramic views of lagoons and sweeping cliffs almost willing the island into the sky, who is not tempted to book flights to Santorini immediately? But be warned, this beautiful Mediterranean gem will steal your heart and you may not be able to leave.

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Skiathos Religious Festival


Skiathos

A trip to the small Greek island of Skiathos will leave you with one thought in your mind: have I been here before? Well, you may not have been here in real life, but you will have certainly seen its blissful surroundings in the blockbuster film, Mamma Mia.

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The Feast of Aghios Ioannis in Kos


camp fire on beach

Steeped in antiquarian history, natural beauty, the clearest blue skies and the finest culinary delights, the islands of Greece are understandably popular destinations. But there is much more to Greece then just sea, sand and fine food. Try booking flights to Kos and you will be left speechless at the peculiar island festivals that are on offer over June, July and August.

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Spirit of Bourgas


Veiw of the black sea

The Spirit of Burgas takes place between 13th August and 15th August and organisers expect over 20,000 people to attend the Bulgarian resort. Bourgas is one of several expanding holiday resorts on this part of the Black Sea coastline and has a chain of sandy beaches that are attracting growing numbers of tourists.

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Relax in Rhodes


A friendly cat in Rhodes

During summer holidays, Greece seems to be paradise for British holiday makers. The abundance of ancient treasures, the surreal surroundings and fanstastic climate aren't the only reason for this: this time of the year is especially popular because the summer months are full of swinging events.

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Alicante Festivals and Gourmet


Spanish paella

Alicante is a prestigious city in Spain, known for its long summers and mild winters. This city is famous for its love of life, music, fireworks, festivals and gourmet dining. Alicante takes pride in its traditions and cultural values which show through in their festivals. These festivals take place throughout the year, but the summer festivals are more popular with tourists due to the number of flights to Alicante during this season.

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Ibiza's Quiet Side


Ibiza City

Ibiza Town is a charming capital steeped in history. The city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Archaeological Museum contains an impressive collection of Carthaginian treasures, as well as many items from the island's occupations by the Phoenicians, Romans, Turks and Catalans.

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Funchal set to celebrate its 502nd birthday!


Funchal fireworks display

Madiera, known for holding a Guinness World Record for the largest firework display, looks set to hold yet another birthday celebration as judging by last years 502nd they would be mad not to repeat proceedings on the 21st August. As well as the main parade, with participants dressed in various costumes, there will be outdoor concerts, theatre performances and other celebrations.

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Non-stop adventure Sports in Lanzarote


Triathletes making pace through the valleys of Lanzarote

The answer to why Lanzarote is perfect for competitive endurance events is quite simply the fact that it has perfect weather throughout the year. Rain is an almost non-existent event throughout the months of winter, and the summer maintains a perfect heat.

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International Festival of Carthage: party in Phoenician Style


Tunisia. Ancient Carthage

Have you ever wondered what it might be like to be a Roman Patrician? Well, in Tunisia, over 2000 years later, you may get a small taster. In the months of July and August, the ancient city of Carthage, the birthplace of the infamous Hannibal, becomes alive with its International Festival.

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Celebrating Hippocrates, the founder of medicine


 Odeon in Kos Greece

Kos is the third largest Greek island in the southern part of Dodecanese. Kos is bordered by beautiful sea, beaches, and mountains as well as fascinating landmarks. If you love touring, sightseeing and history, this is an ideal place to visit. You will find there is so much more to a holiday here than just lying by the sea.

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Good reasons to visit Paphos


cyprus aphrodites rock

Paphos is one of the most visited and the most attractive cities on the west coast of Cyprus. It's boasting with big and famous hotels with their own beaches. And if you are looking for accommodations within a smaller budget, there are quite a number of affordable ones with good quality too.

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Sintra Festival


Da Pena palace in Sintra

Nestled amongst the hills of the Grand Lisboa region of Portugal is the picturesque city of Sintra. Famed for its fairytale castles and inspiring architecture, for the last 51 years the city has also hosted the Sintra Festival. This month-long event brings together major names in chamber music and ballet from around the world. In recent years, the festival has witnessed performances by the Soprano Ann Murray and dance companies such as the Ballet du Grand Theatre de Geneve, the Spanish Compania Nacional de Damza and the Scottish Dance Theatre.

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Discover the Secret Bliss of Tenerife


Pyramids on Tenerife

Tenerife is the largest island of the Canary Islands. It is reported to be a favourite wedding location and honeymoon destination. The island's climate is fantastic albeit somewhat predictable, as there is no large difference in the temperature between the summer and the winter (around 25-30 C/ 77-86 F). You're guaranteed to find a good number of flights to Tenerife any time of the year.

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Get a good deal on your holiday in Burgas


Sunset above the Sozopol bay

Choosing a destination for a holiday can be a tough decision to make, especially if you have fallen for several tourist traps and ended up disappointed when such places refused to meet your expectations or your money's worth.

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Get the party started in Ibiza


Amnesia Club

If your idea of holiday heaven is total R and R, please look away now. Because right now, that's the last thing you'll get in Ibiza, with party season warming up for yet another year and a bevy of banging clubs opening their doors over the next few weekends.

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Fuerteventura Music Festival


Lagoon of El Cotillo

This year's must see concert of the Canaries is the 'Fuerteventura en Musica 2010', which will take place on the 2nd and the 3rd July on the beach in El Cotillo Lagoon across from Azzurro, on the north west corner of Fuerteventura.

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Two Festivals in Pollensa on Mallorca


Puerto Pollensa bay

The town of Pollensa in the north of Mallorca has a dual personality. Inland lies the old town of Pollensa itself with its fine architecture, pretty market square and a choice of luxury hotels. More recent development has created the area of Puerto Pollensa, a yacht marina flanked by a sweeping sandy beach on one side and shady promenade walk on the other.

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The Fantastic Food of Faro


stew

As it is situated on the Atlantic, the Algarve region has a bounty of fresh fish on its doorstep. Portugal on a whole is among Europe's highest fish consuming nations. Cod is a hugely popular fish and it is reputed that the Portuguese have 365 different ways to prepare it - one dish for each day of the year! Also popular are grilled sardines, octopus, squid, crabs, shrimp, sea bass, lobster, and shellfish. Expect to see the fish and shellfish here prepared in a multitude of ways. Additional dishes to try are the rich bean stews and presunto, which is a wafer thin smoked ham and bread served with pate and olives. Speaking of bread, you may want to sample the acorda which is a thick bread-based casserole made with garlic, coriander and seafood. Potatoes and rice dishes are also mainstays of the menus here.

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Discover Crete


Frangokastello Castle

The best way to discover Crete may just be on foot. The island is ideal for walks, with mountains, valleys, villages, plains and an expansive coastline to explore. Crete has over 200 gorges which are accessible by walking

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Feel Free in Funchal


market funchal

For shopping, visit the Workers' Market (Mercado dos Lavradores), an open market that is alive with activity, noise, color and the hustle and bustle of the locals. Here you can buy any Madeira's specialties such as fresh fish, vegetables, spices, exotic flowers and local handicrafts. The building is in the late 1930s art deco style and designed by Portuguese architect Edmundo Tavares. Local handicrafts in the region include hand made embroidery and lace items, ceramics, tiles, and wicker objects. Locally made honey is a perfect souvenir.

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Wildlife and Wild Nights in Gran Canaria


Maspalomas in Gran Canaria.

Gran Canaria is great for picking up bargains both in the resort areas many shops as well as more traditional markets.

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The film set of Mamma Mia


Panorama of Skiathos Town

Little Banana Beach has clear water and fine sand. It's a nudist beach but the many beach goers here are clothed, so it welcomes everyone.

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Bulgarian Bites


stuffed peppers

Bulgarian cuisine is not known for its international appeal. But if you understand what the strengths are in terms of food choices, you can eat well while visiting here. Bulgarian food shares characteristics with other Balkan cuisines. Due to the climate and diverse geography, Bulgaria has excellent growth conditions for many vegetables, herbs and fruits. So vegetable dishes are often a good bet when eating in restaurants here. The tomatoes, aubergines and other assorted vegetable dishes are staple here. Meat eaters will see lamb and rabbit on the menus. Bulgarian cuisine also offers variety of hot and cold soups. There are many different Bulgarian pastries to try such as banitsa. You will often see rich salads offered at most meals, which are almost a meal unto themselves.

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Istanbul International Music Festival


Twilight by the Bosporus, Istanbul

Istanbul has always been a cultural melting pot and is traditionally known as the gateway to Asia, where East meets West. Throughout June the city truly lives up to this reputation by playing host to one of the major events in the cultural calendar, the International Istanbul Music Festival. The festival is a summer extravaganza that straddles every genre from opera and ballet to classical and traditional Turkish music.

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Crete Renaissance Festival


Comedia Masks

From July 12th to 27th the town of Rethymnon in Crete will come to life in celebration of a unique period of history. The Renaissance Festival was created in 1987 as a way for Cretans to reconnect with an era that rejuvenated the island both culturally and spiritually, and the event is still going strong over two decades later.

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National Agricultural Fair in Santarem


Portuguese Meat of pig

From June 4th to 14th the historic Portuguese city of Santarem will hold the National Agricultural Fair. If the name puts you off, it is important to remember that the festival is a million miles away from the farmers markets you may have seen back home. The Portuguese never do things by halves, and the festival is a celebration of every aspect of their traditional rural culture. The event takes place two kilometres west of the city centre and is one of the largest agricultural fairs in Europe. Attractions include horse riding competitions, cattle herding and a nocturnal bull run. Dancing is also an important part of any celebration in Portugal and you can expect to see an array of local dances, including the fandango.

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Squash Fans in Hurghada


Men playing squash

A holiday to Egypt may not be expected to appeal to the dedicated squash fan, but the many of the hotels there have squash courts amongst their facilities and international competitions are held there too.

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Skiathos Anniversary


 island of Skiathos

Almost three years ago, the small harbour in Skiathos was full of excitement and expectation as film crews descended on the town to film part of what would become one the biggest box office hits of the following year: Mamma Mia!

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The Medieval Rose Festival at Rhodes


medievel shield rhodes

If your only image of the Greek islands is of package holidays, then prepare to have your horizons broadened. From May 15th to June 27th, the island of Rhodes is transported back in time courtesy of the Medieval Rose Festival. Rhodes is an island steeped in history, and the festival is an incredible chance to watch the past come alive in front of your eyes.

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Light of Hope for Sri Lanka


ancient buddha

When thinking of Sri Lanka, the first things that come to mind are aromatic coffee, images of palm-fringed beaches and, unfortunately, the tsunami of 26th December 2004 and the bitter civil war between the Sinhalese majority and the Tamil minority that lasted for 25 years before finally coming to an end in May last year.

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Quieter Beaches on Zakynthos


emty beach greece

For those travelling to the Greek island Zakynthos early in May, a visit to the village Maherado is a must. Here, the celebration of Agia Mavra takes place annually on the 3rd of May. The day traditionally begins with a religious ceremony in the church of Maherado, which is calles Agia Mavra too. After the ceremony, the feast continues with banquets and traditional dances on the village's square.

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Ibiza Still Club Capital


dj and deck

Other European clubbing locations may be on the rise or the fall but Ibiza still heads the pack, with the best clubs and the most impressive list of high profile DJ's this summer.

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History and Tourism Hand in Hand in Bodrum


bodrum city

The town of Bodrum and the surrounding peninsula in the south of Turkey provide a unique mix of abundant history and are a perfect holiday destination.

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Roots Homecoming Festival in Gambia


african drummers

The Gambia Roots Homecoming Festival is to be next held sometime between late May and early June 2012.

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Fuerteventura new Biosphere Reserve


dophins

In May 2009, it was announced that the island of Fuerteventura became one of 22 new sites in UNESCO's World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR).

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May in Malta


Valletta, capital of Malta

Hundreds of Brits are looking forward to a visit to Malta in May and they will travel there for all kinds of reasons. The first reason that comes to mind is the weather, but another reason why so many have booked flights to Malta is the omnipresence of historic and cultural treasures on the island.

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Beyond Ayia Napa


blue beach cyprus

Even during the days when Ayia Napa was at its peak of popularity, you could lie on beaches barely a few kilometers away and sense nothing of the party scene that was in action along the coast. The coastline east of Larnaca is one of the best in Cyprus and quiet, relaxing locations can easily be found.

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Alive After Five in Sandford


musician playing steel drums

Visitors to Florida this summer may be interested in sampling Sandford's regular "Alive after Five" event, which is held each month on the second Thursday.

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Taking Sand to the Beach


sand sculpture crocodile

Last Friday, a remarkable exhibition was opened on Lara Beach in Turkey, showing over 100 massive sand sculptures by thirty artists from ten different countries all over the world. One of the sculptures is 15 meter tall and depicts several characters from Avatar, the world's most successful film ever. The exhibition is part of the Antalya International Sand Sculpture Festival, and each round, participating sculptors only have a couple of days to turn 7,500 tons of imported sand into art.

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Celebrate Cinco de Mayo


Mexican Margarita

Next Wednesday, most USA citizens will celebrate the Mexican army's unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on the 5th of May, 1862. Cinco de Mayo, Spanish for "fifth of May", is celebrated all throughout the USA because the 4,000 Mexican soldiers defeated the much better-equipped French army of 8,000 that had not been defeated for half a century and, since the Battle of Puebla, no American country has been invaded by an army from another continent.

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The Soundtrack of Greece


Preveza

If you're tired of Glastonbury or feel too old for festivals, then maybe it's time you thought about travelling to the Greek coast for a music festival like no other. From July 1st to the 4th each year the idyllic town of Preveza plays host to the International Choral Festival. Now in its twenty seventh year, the event is unique in that it is split into two distinct parts.

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Buying Books in Lisbon


book at the beach

In 2010, the eightieth edition of the Feira do Livro, a great open air book fair in Lisbon, will take place again in the Parque Eduardo VII from 29th April to 16th May. Opening hours are from 12:30 to 23:30 on weekdays and from 11:00 to 23:30 on Saturdays and Sundays. It's bound to be a sunny and lively festival because participating bookstores and libraries will organize street sales with great discounts, autograph sessions, book launches and entertainment for children, and from 21.30 to 22.15, there will be live music every weekday.

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Malta Performances


tap shoes

The world of the performing arts can take many forms, from theatre and opera to classical music concerts and choral recitals, but April on Malta sees two other varieties taking centre stage.

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Algarve Prepares For Sporting Summer


jet ski with water spray

If you are visiting one of the resorts on the Algarve this summer, then in addition to the usual cultural events, an array of sporting competitions is planned for both spectators and amateur participants. Resorts like Faro, Portimao, Vilamoura and Tavira are all close to the sporting events for 2010.

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Tenerife Not In Dire Straits


rock guitarist

Dire Straits front man Mark Knopfler is rumoured to be giving a concert on Tenerife later this summer.

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Menorca Emerges


laser boat

The peaceful island of Menorca seems to be quickly emerging from its typically quiet off-season period and all over the island there are events taking place for visitors to enjoy. Locals also get their first opportunities of the year to get outside and take part in some sporting competitions with tennis being one of the sports on offer. The 21st edition of Jaime Mascaro Open tennis tournament took place on 11th April. Mr Mascaro is not some former tennis champion from the island but a local shoe manufacturer who sponsored the tournament. Sailing is also popular in Menorca and April saw various regattas taking place with the La Caixa Trophy held between 4th and 18th April. Also, the Sa Nostra Trophy event for the smaller laser and optimist boats was held on 12th April in Es Castell.

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Find new Furniture in Fuerteventura


Feria-de-Artesania-sweets

In Spanish areas, there's always something festive happening and the Canarian Islands are no exception. One of the most popular events on the Canarian island Fuerteventura is the Feria de Artesania, a festival that annually takes place in May. For three days, locals gather in Antigua to display things they have made by hand, from furniture, weaving, clothes and musical instruments to local cheese, sweets and dried fish.

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Gran Canaria Operas


Gran Canaria

Visitors to Gran Canaria during May and June will have the opportunity to see some of the world's best known operas performed on the island as part of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria's 43rd Festival of Opera.

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Crete Holiday Season Kicks Off


sunset at beach in crete

The usual influx of visitors to Crete over the Easter period took place as expected but there were some subtle changes to normal behaviour that has got local tourism authorities thinking hard.

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Along the Lido de Venezia


 Lido de Venezia

The famous city of Venice in Northern Italy is known for the water that surrounds and infiltrates the whole area. This wonderful city is located unusually, within a protected basin of water that borders the Adriatic Sea. Besides walking, boats and water taxis are the most common method of transport in Venice for visitors. You can drive onto the island of course as there is a road and rail bridge that connects the network of narrow roads within Venice to the mainland, but you can't drive around the main island and you will be expected to park in one of the large car parks as soon as you arrive. The main canal that winds its way right through the heart of the city is only crossed by three bridges so progress by road would be almost impossible.

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Antalya Welcomes 2010 Arrivals


antalya city harbour

The Turkish holiday area of Antalya is looking forward to a great year in 2010 and things are already starting to happen.

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Clean Beaches in Fuerteventura


Beach of Morro Jable fuerteventura

Concern over the state of the beaches in Fuerteventura was what started the CleanOceanProject project three years ago. Since then, the campaign has held numerous events that encourage groups to meet up and carry out clean-up exercises on the beaches of the island. The original concern was highlighted when the beaches used by surfers and windsurfers on the island were starting to experience a build-up of rubbish, so the founders of the initiave called on the surfers themselves to drive the project forward. In addition to deriving their enjoyment from the ocean, it turned out the surfers were more than happy to put some effort back into keeping their sporting environment clean.

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Expedition Canada


canoe on water

Fly across the Atlantic and discover the wilds of Canada.

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Algarve Arts in March


flowers mixed

We've already mentioned some of the sporting events planned to take place on the Algarve during April, with a round of the World Superbike Championship being one of the most high profile. This event represents a great opportunity for British bike fans who may struggle to get tickets for the home round of this series. Book some time off work, secure some cheap flights with flythomascook.com and spend a long weekend enjoying the Portuguese round of the series in the warm sunshine of the Algarve.

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Algarve April Excitement


seafood table

Whatever your preferred hobby or pastime, a stay on the Algarve during April is likely to provide something to tempt you to leave the beaches and explore this fascinating region.

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Tenerife Events After Easter


chess

The Canary Islands are still a popular choice for Brits taking an Easter sunshine break. A relatively short flight and almost guaranteed fine weather makes Tenerife one of the safe choices.

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Clubbing in Burgas


dance floor in Burgas

There is no place quite like Burgas, the Bulgarian seaside resort on the Black Sea Coast. It combines its roles as an industrial centre, major seaport, home to historical and cultural treasures and tourist centre elegantly, and manages to remain ideal for low-budget holidays at the same time.

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Menorca on Land and Sea


port of Ciutadella

If you are planning to spend a holiday on the island of Menorca during April then, in addition to the wonderful beaches that are just perfect for lazy days in the sun, the island has plenty of plans for other activities and attractions that will encourage you to get out and about in the countryside and on the water.

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Lanzarote Builds On Ironman Triathlon Tradition


mountains of fire lanzarote

One major sporting event that always brings attention to the island of Lanzarote, and always fills up its quota of places, is the annual Lanzarote Ironman Triathlon. The event, which acts as a qualifying event for the world famous Ironman Triathlon in Hawaii, has been taking place for the past 18 years.

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Spring Forward in Mallorca


almond orchard and mountain

Calendars have already been flipped over to March and now on to April, and Spring has certainly arrived on the island of Mallorca. Temperatures are nudging their way towards 70 degrees Fahrenheit and the island is a picture of new life with orchards all over the island proudly displaying their almond blossom.

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Mallorca - Palma Boat Show


 Dream_Boat

The glitz and glamour of luxury yachts and motor cruisers will fill the harbour in the port of Palma, Mallorca between 24th April and 2nd May. This year sees the 27th running of International Palma Boat Show and gives the island a chance to show it's marine credentials to international companies and potential buyers. For the general public the boat show also creates a cosmopolitan atmosphere that merely adds to Palma's attraction as one of the nicest holiday cities in Europe.

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Art and Music in March on Lanzarote


musician_plays_the_clarinet

One of the nicest settings to appreciate art on the island of Lanzarote is the International Museum of Contemporary Art (MIAC). This interesting museum is housed in the old Castle of San Jose and was opened in 1975. The building itself is an unusual semi-circular structure built over 300 years ago to protect the town from invasion from the sea. This castle is situated to the northern side of Arrecife harbour and a similar building, the Castle of San Gabriel, sits on a sea wall at the other end of the town.

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Spring on the Algarve


fish_soup _with _seafood

Unusual Atlantic weather patterns for this time of year may still be rolling into southern Spain and Portugal, but for one traditional event on the Algarve, the inclement weather actually seems rather fitting.

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Opening Parades on 12th February


Portrait of young woman with creative make-up in doll style

Friday 12th February was the date for two spectacular opening ceremonies. In Vancouver, Canada the 2010 Winter Olympics started on that day when the hosts set to stage a stunning event in the BC Place arena. The organisers went to great lengths to ensure everything went according to plan, even asking the audience to arrive early to take part in a rehearsal an hour before the official start.

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Sanford Street Parties


Sidewalk in Sanford, Florida, USA

Visitors to Orlando in Florida who travel with flythomascook.com during the summer will arrive at the Florida Sanford airport. In addition to visiting all the theme park attractions of nearby Orlando it may be worth checking out Sandford itself. The town is well- known for its "Alive after Five" street festivals that take place every month.

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Run In Luxor or Sharm


 Runner On Dunes in a valley

Many new marathon runners in the UK will know if they have a place in this year's London Marathon and will already be training hard, but experienced marathon runners may be looking at events abroad to satisfy their running hobby. The big races in the United States like the Chicago Marathon and the New York Marathon don't take place until October and November, so places like Egypt or Malta could allow you to race earlier in the year.

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More February Celebrations on Lanzarote


Playa de Papagayo (Parrot's beach) on Lanzarote, Canary islands, Spain

Just when you think the carnival celebrations are over on Lanzarote and the streets of Arrecife have returned to normality, then things kick off again in another resort.

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Pro Cyclists in Mallorca Race


mixed group of cyclists

The start of February traditionally sees one of the first professional races of the European season taking place on the island of Mallorca. Many of the top European riders use the event to test their form and get used to racing with new teammates. This year the event clashed with another top level race taking place in Qatar, with several teams attracted to the warmer desert weather as a place to start their 2010 campaign.

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Motor Show and Music Sundays in Cyprus


Filipino Jeepney Details with Classic Vintage Accents

If you were lucky enough to be enjoying the warmer weather on Cyprus in January then various music and motoring events may have been of interest to you.

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More Big Football On Tenerife


Soccer stadium

After losing to a dominant Barcelona in their home game against the Spanish champions on 10th January, Tenerife's footballing heroes were up against it once again at the end of February when Spain's second most powerful team Real Madrid headed across the Atlantic to take on the home team. Despite dropping further and further down Spain's equivalent of the UK Premier division as the season goes on, Tenerife's local football fans are making the most of the promotion they gained last year to welcome some of the world's best footballers to their doorstep.

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Maspalomas Carnival Get Go Ahead


Maspalomas resort, Gran Canaria

One of the biggest carnivals on Gran Canaria has the green light to go ahead having been given assurances by its local mayor that proper finances would be available.

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January Algarve Events


Portuguese Meat of pig and bread

The rest of Europe may be settling back for a quiet few weeks to help get over the Christmas excesses but the Algarve region of Portugal is still busy at this time of year. The southern coast of Portugal is a long strip of beaches, holidays resorts and golf courses that attract visitors all year round and especially during January and February when its mild weather can provide a welcome break from the harsher winter days of the UK.

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Flower Power On Ibiza


Smiling Hippie Girl

Beaches and nightclubs may grab most of the holiday headlines when Ibiza is mentioned but during January and March the island's Flower Power and Hippy era is centre stage at two of the island's festivals.

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Ibiza Summer 2010


Party People @ Club Amnesia , Ibiza 2006

During the Summer months, many of our passengers on flights to Ibiza travel to the island to enjoy the thriving nightlife as much as the sun and beaches. The six months or more between the time when most of the clubs close in October through to their reopening in May and June may seem a lifetime, but many will already be planning their trips at this time of year to get the best deals.

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Flamenco in Faro


young woman running at the top of a hill

Recently we reported on a series of Flamenco concerts taking place in the Canary Islands during February. Perhaps it's that time of year but there was also a brace of Flamenco concerts which took place in Faro on the Algarve at the 6th Flamenco Festival in early February.

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A Far Cry From Fuerteventura


One of the most famous beaches in Fuerteventura: El Cotillo

If we are talking about the January weather in the UK too much, it's because it seems to be the only talking point around at the moment but also because it provides a stark contrast to the conditions in many of our winter sun destinations.

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Dance Music in Malta, Sharm and Cyprus


dj

Dance music fans have their favourite venues around Europe where the world's top DJs and dance music performers typically appear. These include of course Ibiza during the summer months but also, in the earlier part of the year, several other holiday resorts get their chance to promote dance music events featuring the stars.

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Classical Times on Tenerife


Tenerife capital city view from the distant

The events that are currently in full swing on Tenerife may not be everyone's cup of tea. The excitement and revelery of the annual carnival is the highlight of the year for many, but for others a selection of quieter more sedate events may be preferred.

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Celebrity Musicians in Tenerife


A sight upon the beach of San Andres

Due to there location, several thousand miles from the European mainland and the balance of resident and tourist population, the islands of the Canaries rarely benefit from visiting pop stars and celebrity performers. Premier music concerts featuring big stars are few and far between on the islands. In the past performers like Rod Stewart, Gloria Estefan and Elton John have all played on Tenerife. Even Michael Jackson included Tenerife in his "Dangerous" tour during 1993, when 45,000 people watched him on stage in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

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Canary Islands Music Festival Schedule


Young girl playing violin outdoor

There may have been a big freeze across northern Europe at the beginning of January but the attractions for tourists soaking up the sun in Gran Canaria were added to on 8th January when the Canary Islands Music Festival started in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

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Almond Blossom In February


Almond flowers with selective depth of field

Tree blossom brings a welcome boost of colour to UK trees in spring, but for Mediterranean islands like Mallorca and Menorca, as well as the islands of the Canaries, spring blossom arrives a little earlier in February thanks to the almond trees.

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Gran Canaria Winter Solstice


zen stones

Tourists on Gran Canaria during December may have been lucky enough to witness one of the more unusual events on the island.

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Race to Lanzarote


Pigeons over the sea

One of the more unusual sporting events on Lanzarote this year saw over 700 competitors setting off on the 23rd January from the African coast and racing the 100 miles or so to Lanzarote. The cash prize for the first one home was a healthy 6000 Euros, so competition was fierce with only the very fittest and fastest in with a chance of winning.

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Life in the Open Air in Larnaca


Palm trees by beach on the island of Cyprus.

In Cyprus the resort of Larnaca always does its best to make use of the great weather it benefits from. Outdoor activities are the norm here from dance festivals to concerts and theatre performances. If it can take place outdoors, then in Larnaca it always does.

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Celebrate National Day On Menorca


Menorca, port of Ciutadella with clear blue sky

If you travel to the island of Menorca during January for a quiet winter sun break and you may stumble across an unexpected national celebration.

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Mountain Bike Around Lanzarote


orange sunset in playa Famara, Lanzarote

Cycling around the roads of Lanzarote may be the choice of professional racing teams for their pre-season training camps or keen amateur cyclists escaping the uncertain conditions of a wet British spring, but Lanzarote has more to offer than just road-based routes.

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Funchal's Shortest Day


View over the mountains of Pico Do Arieiro, Madeira, Portugal

The 17th December, was the shortest day of the year in Funchal on the island of Madeira in 2009, dusk arrived at 4 minutes to five in the afternoon only 600 minutes after sunrise. Compare that to London whose shortest day came a day or two later and was only 470 minutes long. So a winter break on the island of Madeira will not only provide more sun and warmer temperatures, but the days will be over two hours longer too.

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Fuerteventura's Biosphere Market


fresh fruits

Visitors to the island of Fuerteventura may be interested in going along to a new monthly market that aims to promote the produce of local farmers. Alongside tourism, Fuerteventura's next commercial strength is its agriculture, with farmers using the island's clement weather to grow everything from wheat crops, to tomatoes, onions, garlic and even bananas. Much of this activity takes place away from the main tourist areas and unless people make a specific effort, this side of the island can easily be missed.

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Sport 2010 on Lanzarote


Mountains of fire,Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote Island

Some of the big sporting events in Lanzarote during 2010 have been announced and are already attracting entries from competitors.

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Menorca During November


 Three Churches on the Bay

We have just read an article that questioned whether Menorca effectively "died" during November, meaning did everything shut down following the end of the summer season. The conclusion was a resounding "no", with there being plenty to interest visitors on this beautiful island during Autumn. Of course there are fewer people on Menorca once the main summer season slows down, in fact the people count may drop to as low as 30 per cent of the summer peak, but that just means more space and a more relaxing environment for everyone.

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Cyprus During November


fencing players

There is plenty of activity to interest the tourist visiting Cyprus at this time of year. The first thing travellers to Larnaca will notice will be the improved airport facilities that were opened to the public on 10th November. Phase One of the new developments were unveiled by the company who assumed control of the airport back in 2006.

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Fleet Departs Gran Canaria on Atlantic Voyage


Yacht sailing in the ocean with island and blue sky

Sunny weather and a fresh breeze treated competitors and spectators to a spectacular start of the 2009 ARC Sailing event in Gran Canaria.

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Music Variety in Mallorca During December


Sea parc in Palma de Majorca and view to the Cathedral

Visitors to Mallorca during the peak months of the summer more often than not stay in their resorts for the duration of their stay. But for those coming to the island during December there are plenty of reasons to take a trip into the capital Palma, to experience the sights and sounds as the Mallorcan Christmas approaches. In terms of music there are many different Christmas concerts, during the early part of the month there was also a varied choice of concerts in different musical styles, that provided something for everyone.

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Plan your New Year Party in Sharm


the coast of sharm el sheikh in Egypt

If you are looking for a high energy New Year party followed by some peaceful relaxation in the sun away from the cold, wet weather that is currently shrouding the UK, then Sharm el Sheikh in Egypt may be just the ticket.

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Lanzarote Christmas


Nativity scene from figurine crib like an old Jerusalem village

For many the Christmas period presents the perfect opportunity to take a short break and get away for a little rest and relaxation. For some a cosy chalet in snow covered mountains is the ideal break while others yearn for some warm sunshine. Being only a short flight from the UK, Lanzarote offers the combination of convenience and value for British tourists seeking some warmer weather.

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WOMAD Festival in Gran Canaria


Panoramic view Maspalomas beach. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Spain

The Canaries version of the WOMAD Festival took place from 12th to 15th November in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

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The Algarve During November and December


Souvenirs handmade

If many resorts, even winter sun destinations, seem very quite during November and December, then those looking for a little more activity may be interested in a visit to Portugal's Algarve region. Although the weather there may not quite be able to compete with the Canary Islands or the resorts of Egypt and Gambia for reliable warm sunny days, it certainly will not be as cold or as wet as the UK during those months.

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Christmas Fairs and Markets


Christmas gingerbread handmade

December is now upon us and Christmas celebrations are starting to begin in earnest with many countries seeing traditional Christmas fairs and markets springing up in their towns and villages.

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Christmas Getaway


 cap of Santa and caribbean sea

With the festive season just a few weeks away, plans for getting away for some seasonal sun may be uppermost in the minds of those who prefer to spend the period in a warmer climate.

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Christmas on The Algarve


 A well light metal christmas tree in the main town square of Oporto.

Imagine the traditional Christmas scene and snowy forests or icy lakes may spring to mind. Well the festive season on Portugal's Algarve coast is highly unlikely to feature either of those, benefitting as it does from mild, dry weather right through the months of November, December and January. Of course you may be unlucky enough to catch a stray band of rain or be subjected to one of the onshore Atlantic breezes but largely the weather will be mild and sunny.

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Planning for 2010 in Gran Canaria


blooming trees on field in spring

Tourists heading for Gran Canaria early in 2010 will be interested to know about some of the important dates on the events calendar for the island.

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Exploring Mallorca


El Santuari de Lluc mallorca spain

November and December are the perfect months to explore the lesser known areas of Mallorca. Hire a car, hop onto a bus or use Mallorca's rejuvenated rail network to travel to some of the islands traditional towns and villages. Many visitors to Mallorca stay in the beach resorts either side of the capital Palma, the coastal areas in the north around Alcudia and Pollenca or the beach resorts on the east coast like Cala Millor or Porto Christo.

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Harlem Globetrotters on Tour


Basket ball in hoop

Does the name Meadowlark ring any bells with you? Maybe not, but if you were a watcher of children's TV back in the 1970's the name may start to awaken some fond memories of your carefree childhood days. Meadowlark was one of the happy-go-lucky characters in the children's Hanna-Barbera cartoon representation of the famous Harlem Globetrotters basketball team. That team became a worldwide phenomenon at the time and the current members of the team are still pleasing audiences around the world today. Their recent international tour included visits to the islands of Gran Canaria and Tenerife. The team made one of their final appearances of the current tour when they performed in Monastir , Tunisia on the 16th October at the Pavillion Salle Couverter.

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Sand Castles in Antalya


sand sculpture

A beach together with a bucket and spade will normally lead to some sort of sand castle eventually, but have you ever seen a professional sand sculptor in action? They are able to create things you would not have thought possible. We've seen them in places like the beaches of Cannes and Mallorca, but now Antalya in Turkey has its own Sand Sculpture festival which has proved to be very popular.

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St Peters Singers in Palma


Cathedral Le Seu, Mallorca

During October the St Peters Singers, a fifty strong chamber choir from Leeds, England performed a number of concerts during a short tour of the island of Mallorca.

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Tenerife Tattoo Fest


 A man making temporary henna tattoo

One of the more esoteric events on Tenerife this Autumn was the Tenerife Tattoo Fest, which took place for the second time this year on the 7th and 8th November.

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Cyprus Thunderball


TALLINN, ESTONIA - JUNE 16, 2008: An orange Lotus Exige S front view

Hold onto your hats during early November in Cyprus for a car verses boat challenge.

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Ibiza Clubs Round Off 2009 Season


disco relax

The world famous club scene on Ibiza approached the big closing party season in late September.

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Cheese, Rock and Art Celebrations


closeup of guitarists hand during a live performance

Gran Canaria in October is much the same as Gran Canaria in September and November. The usual warm Autumn weather, lots of tourists arriving on the island for a late summer break and plenty of things going on. However the first weekend of October this year did seem to have an unusual combination of events on the calendar.

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Suwannee River Music Festival


Canoeists paddle down the Suwannee River.

You may have heard of the Suwannee river in the lyrics of the song made famous by Al Jolson but did you know anything about this beautiful location in Florida?

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Florida Festivals in October


Miniature steam boat toys.

Visitors to Florida during the month of October have a choice of local festivals to try out as an alternative to lazy days on the beach.

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Events on the Algarve During Autumn


show jumping.girl riding horse and jumping

There may be a smaller selection of events taking place on the Algarve during Autumn, but there's still a choice that should satisfy anyone on holiday there during that period.

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Algarve Film Set


BERLIN - JULY 28: Brad Pitt greets his fans - German premiere of the film

Portugal's Algarve coastline will become a film set for part of summer 2010 when production staff and celebrity stars including Brad Pitt will use locations near Portimao for a classic remake. The new race track on the Algarve will be the base for filming over two weeks next summer.

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September Events in Cyprus


large festival fireworks on a black background

September is a wonderful month to spend some time in Cyprus and this year was no different. The very hot days of the high summer are gone and milder weather, together with a wide selection of cultural events, make the island a pleasant place to spend a week or two.

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Join the Wine Bus on Tenerife


wine with grape clusters

Wine producing co-operatives on Tenerife have joined forces to offer visitors a chance to learn about and sample the wine choices of the island.

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Vintage Run on Lanzarote


run

Runners who love wine were able to combine both of their desires on 21st June when Club La Santa on Lanzarote held its first ever Wine Run. The race, over the half marathon distance, took runners through the wine region of the island, providing them with tasting samples en route.

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Hamam in Bodrum


turkish bath

Visitors to Bodrum will be confronted with so many options to experience the history and culture of the town and the surrounding area that just lying on the beach in the sun may not seem possible given the time available. However, in order to ensure a relaxing break, visitors would be well advised to plan ahead. A visit to Bodrum Castle is recommended, for younger people a night at Bodrum's huge outdoor nightclub would be a shame to miss and for everyone, a Turkish bath, if only to be able to say that you've tried one.

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Fuerteventuras Lady of the Rock


carnival dancer

During September the island of Fuerteventura celebrated one of its most important annual festivals.

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Music in Rhodes - A Classical Festival


BUDAPEST - SEPTEMBER 10: Opening concert of the Budapest

The holiday scene in Rhodes may be slightly quieter during September and a music festival follows the trend.

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Go Freestyle on Crete


windsurfing-beach-area-on-the-greek

The beaches of Eastern Crete are often referred to as some of the more secluded on the island, but when windsurfers discover perfect conditions, things tend to get livelier.

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Events in Lanzarote during August and September


timanfaya-national-park-island-lanzarotte-spain

The main holiday season may be starting to wind down in some mainland European resorts, but the Canary Islands have a year-round season to enjoy.

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Sanford For Orlando


Lake Eola Orlando Florida

Sanford is the airport that escorts visitors into to Orlando, Florida, the place with the most theme parks in the United States. The sunshine in Orlando is eternal, and the amount of things to do are almost infinite. In fact, Orlando has more activities than almost anywhere else on earth. Besides the plethora of theme parks, the nearby beaches, space shuttle launches, there is the central Florida wilderness which surrounds Orlando that is a treasure trove of flora, fauna, and wildlife.

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More To Ibiza Than Clubbing


Ibiza harbour

Ibiza is a place where the club scene is nothing short of legendary. But beyond the nightlife, Ibiza sizzles during the languid summer days with sublime beaches, hippie charm, and nature's beauty. The locals are hospitable with long held artistic traditions and inventive culinary skills. In short, Ibiza is much more than the party capital of Europe and has fast become a favourite holiday vacation for families and couples, too.

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El Jem Celebrates Symphony Music


Ampitheatre In El Jem Tunisa

Just 35 miles south of Monastir and within easy reach of the airport, the important Roman town of El Jem hosts an annual music festival celebrating symphony music. The concerts are certain to be high quality but it is the setting that brings people to this special event.

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Blue Flag Beaches


A Blue Flag, awarded to the cleanest beaches

Deciding on a new destination for your next holiday is both exciting and difficult. The prospect of discovering new and wonderful places is set against the worry of potentially being disappointed with your choice of location. Travel brochures have pages of tempting pictures of beautiful scenery and attractive descriptions and the resorts themselves use all kinds of marketing strategies to attract as many visitors as possible. As part of this promotion you may have heard some resorts describe their beaches as "blue flag", but what does that actually mean?

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Sharm el Sheikh Part 1


Beach and Ocean in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

Sharm el Sheikh's impressive coral reef and crystalline waters have deservedly garnered its reputation as one of the best scuba diving locations on earth.

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Bike Meet in Faro during July


Algarve Coast Line

Over four days in July the Moto Club Faro holds its annual Bike Meet on the Concentration Showground right next to Faro airport.

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Faro Part 1


Se Cathedral, faro

Most tourists simply pass through Faro airport en route to their resort destinations in other parts of the Algarve. But if you're hankering for a cultural city break with wonderful food and year-round sun, then Faro is a delightful retreat.

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Scientists Excited at Keri


Keri Zante

Exciting things don't usually seem to happen in the small mountain town of Keri on Zante. Tourism has hardly touched this place and even during the earthquake that shook the island in 1953, Keri was just about the only place where no damage was caused. Quaint old houses remain as does a bold yellow chapel and bell tower. Things are still fairly quiet down on Lake Keri or Limni Keri, the small gulf on the coast down from the village. Here a small harbour is home to mainly fishing boats and the small shingle beach is a relaxing place for tourists who venture to this part of Zante. There is a little more in the way of tourist accommodation and a smart new hotel has recently been built to the north of the beach providing spectacular views across the waters to the island of Marathonisi and beyond to the Vasilikos Peninsula but things are still quiet and peaceful here.

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Peaceful Menorca


Menorca Beach

Menorca is often quoted as being preferred over Mallorca as a holiday destination for Spanish tourists and it may be the quieter, more relaxed feel of its resorts that attracts them. Certainly Menorca is a great place for a family holiday.

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Paradise for Climbers


Bridge across gorge above Rodakino

The wilder parts of Crete are already well known for Gorge trekking and even some skiing high in the mountains, but places like the beach at Plakias are home to some challenging climbing locations. At Plakais, a sheer limestone wall rises directly off the beach, making it a great spot for some recreational climbing. The location is becoming more popular and additional routes are being documented.

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Zante Clean Up on World Environment Day


Sunset in Zante

The first United Nations World Environment Day (WED) happened in 1972 and over the following 37 years the initiative has been gaining traction as a vehicle to generate awareness of environmental issues. Thomas Cook was one company that supported the initiative with action events all over Europe and in Egypt. A sustainable tourism fashion show fashion show was held in Italy and a coastal walk was organised on the Coast del Sol to raise money for a local charity. In Paphos on Cyprus, Gran Canaria and Zakynthos Thomas Cook staff took part in beach clean up initiatives. The company sees WED as a good opportunity to educate both staff and guests about the environmental impact of travel and the means of making leisure travel a sustainable option.

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Sharm an Egyptian Fashion Enigma


Submerged Pottery in Sharm

There are many things that are different about the Egyptian holiday resort of Sharm el Sheikh and traditional fashion culture is one of them. Egypt is a country steeped in history, culture and customs. The native population conforms to many religious and cultural traditions as far as dress is concerned, but those rules seem to be quietly forgotten in the cosmopolitan resorts of Sharm el Sheikh on the Red Sea. However a new campaign, being promoted by travel magazine Wanderlust, aims to make tourists more aware of local expectations in terms of what to wear and hopes it will encourage people to take more care to be respectful of local traditions when it comes to choosing appropriate clothing.

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Caves of Crete


Cave near beach Balos in Crete

Anyone holidaying on the island of Crete has the choice of many wonderful beaches on which to while away their days, but if the lure of the sea and sand starts to wane then the inland areas of Crete have much to offer. The countryside seems littered with ancient ruins, some from Minoan times and dating back over 3000 years. They may now be nothing more than a crumbling muddle of block shaped stones but when you consider when and why they were built, they become all the more remarkable. A good guide or an informative book is very useful.

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Desert in Gran Canaria


Dunes of Maspalomas in Gran Canaria

Of course the Canary Islands are not that far from the West African coast and the Sahara Desert but you wouldn't expect to find a desert in Gran Canaria. Amazingly there is one - well sort of. In the south of the island of Gran Canaria are the Dunas de Maspalomas or the Maspalomas Dunes. This is a protected area of land over 300 hectares in size that resembles the deserts of Africa. The fine sand is formed from ground shells and the shifting dunes themselves reach heights of 10m.

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Medieval Festival Planned for Rhodes


Saint John Knight's Castle in Rhodes

The Greek island of Rhodes certainly has plenty of history to call upon when it comes to creating festival events and a recent Medieval Festival that started in 2005 is repeated this year at the end of June.

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Nadal Supports Tourism in Mallorca


Landscape from Mallorca

Top tennis player Rafael Nadal may have been beaten in the French Open but he is still fully supporting the promotion of tourism for his homeland, namely the island of Mallorca. Nadal, who comes from the town of Manacor on the eastern coast of Mallorca, had to make the difficult decision to leave the island when aged 14 and move to the Spanish mainland to pursue his tennis career. It proved to be the right move as the 23 year old has been world ranked number one since August 2008, but the top player loves his homeland and still lives in the family home on the island with his grandparents, parents and uncle/coach Toni Nadal. Rafael is a regular at the local tennis club in Manacor and was there recently preparing for the French Open.

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Paphos a gateway to the real Cyprus


Akamas Peninsula in Cyprus

The area around Paphos in the south of Cyprus has changed during the last 25 years on the back of better provisions for tourists and an increasing popularity of the area for second-home investors. Control of development is still a concern with conservationists but at least the authorities can see the issues created when developers are given too much of a free rein. What Paphos has to offer, apart from its own cultural attractions, is its proximity to two areas of outstanding natural beauty.

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Blue Skies over Portimao


Jet Manouvering Against a Blue Sky

Situated on the Algarve coast between Lagos and Faro, the town of Portimao is no stranger to high adrenalin sports events. Kitesurfing, motorcycling and powerboat racing have all used the location on the southern coast of Portugal for professional calibre competitions.

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Lanzarote's Longest Day


Road through Lava Rock in Lanzarote

The island of Lanzarote is a great place to relax for many people, but on one long day in May there were plenty of people doing just the opposite. The Lanzarote Ironman triathlon is regarded by many as the toughest triathlon in the world. Besides having to contend with the huge distances and endurance challenges involved, athletes also have to battle against the unique conditions the island throws at them. These normally include the high temperatures and windy conditions that prevail on Lanzarote's volcanic landscape. There is very little in terms of vegetation when you get up onto the higher mountain roads on the island and the wind can feel relentlesss for a tired cyclist.

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Discover Ibiza


Landscape view of Ibiza

Talking about the nightclubs on the island first. One of the most famous is perhaps Pacha, which is a large venue and the only club that is open all year round, with others not opening until late May. The claim of being the largest club is now owned by Privilege which has an unusual history. The club started life as a local swimming pool which became popular after a bar was added and it started playing music under the name Club Rafael. Name changes, storms, closures and new investment has brought the club to where it is today, the biggest nightclub in the world.

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Fast Cars in Gran Canaria


Mountains and Sunset in Gran Canaria

The islands are no strangers to motorsport events as the larger Rally Islas Canarias takes place earlier in the year and usually attracts large crowds. As a nation the Spanish are great fans of all motor sports. Fernando Alonso is their top Formula One driver while Jorge Lorenzo, who was born in Palma de Mallorca, is a top Moto GP rider.

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Agatha Christie Week in Tenerife


Puerto de La Cruz in Tenerife

Theatre productions, film showings, conferences, even a tea dance; these are just some of the events that form part of a special Agatha Christie week in Tenerife starting on 5th June 2009.

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Gerakas Beach in Zante


turtle in the sand

There's a beach on the island of Zante that has been voted one of the most popular beaches in Europe and was given the title of best beach in Europe for tots and toddlers by The Times in 2005. But you won't find any water parks, amusement parks or stalls selling buckets and spades here.

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Bodrum plans Mausoleum Replica


Mausoleum in Bodrum

The mayor of Bodrum in Turkey has announced plans for a full scale replica of King Mausolus' Mausoleum to be built. Only ruins currently remain at the site of the structure which was considered one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. The mayor says that the thousands of visitors to the site would benefit from the model which will allow them to better appreciate the ancient tomb.

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Plans Announced for Canaries Celebration Day


Beach

A varied mix of over forty events are planned across the seven islands, featuring cultural performances of music, film and theatre, sporting competitions and traditional celebrations.

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Peaceful Menorca


Beach in Menorca

The Balearic island of Menorca is often overshadowed by its larger neighbour Mallorca, but there are some wonderful places here that have remained largely unknown to many. Menorca is often quoted as being preferred over Mallorca as a holiday destination for Spanish tourists and it may be the quieter, more relaxed feel of its resorts that attracts them. Certainly Menorca is a great place for a family holiday.

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Tenerife Gears up for Musical Summer


Rod Stewart in Concert

The Rod Stewart concert, on the 16th May, is expected to be the biggest of the 3 main rock and pop events to come to Tenerife over the summer and the organisers have chosen to put on the outdoor concert at the Golf Costa Adeje resort in order to cater for the demand expected. This is easily the biggest concert to come to the island since Sir Elton John played to 20,000 people there in January 2008.

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Lanzarote plays host to Sporting Ironmen and Women


Ironman Competition

The Lanzarote Ironman event has taken place annually for the past 17 years and has become one of the premier races on the world triathlon calendar. Competitors face a 3.8km sea swim, followed by a 180km bike leg looping around the island's volcanic terrain and finally a gruelling marathon distance run around 4 laps of a course at Puerto del Carmen.

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Veterans to See Red in Crete


Red Arrows

On May 23rd this year the skies over the Port of Hania (Chania) in Crete will roar to sound of fast jets as the RAF Red Arrows come to town to put on their flying display to help mark the 68th anniversary of the Battle of Crete that took place in 1941.

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Street Skating comes to Gran Canaria


Gran Canaria Beach

The streets and squares of Las Palmas in Gran Canaria are preparing to welcome the world's best freestyle skaters as the first round of the 2009 World Cup Series for the sport comes to the island in the middle of May.

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Find the Wildlife in Fuerteventura


The Coast of Fuerteventura

The island of Fuerteventura in the Canaries has its own unique mix of wildlife dictated largely by its climate. The weather is rarely cold on Fuerteventura and warm dry days are the norm almost all year round. It is because of this that the island has a very limited number of animals living wild. There is however a zoo on the island at Oasis Park that is home to 200 species but hardly any are native to the island.

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A Return to Corfu


Beach of Corfu

If you've ever been to Corfu, or Kerkyra, during your younger years then you probably spent most of your time either on the beach or in a bar or nightclub, but a return to the island later in life may reveal a different side. Traditional holiday hot spots for the twentysomethings include Benitses on the East coat and Kavos in the extreme south. Both have the benefit of the sheltered and warmer waters that lie between Corfu and the mainlands of Albania and Greece which are visible in the distance on a clear day.

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Bitez The Perfect Bay


Bitez Bay

Bitez Bay, a stone's throw from Bodrum on the Southern Turkish coast, may just be the perfect holiday bay. The weather during the long summer season is ideal, the almost perfectly circular shape of the Bay is enchanting and the lack of highrise blocks and apartments around the bay help it to retain its charm and beauty. It offers a quieter alternative to the livelier and busier Bodrum beaches of Gumbet and the main beaches closer to the town.

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Tenerife High Point


Cable car to Mount Teide

Mount Teide in Tenerife is the spectacular high point of the island. In fact, as well as being the highest point of the Canary Islands, it is also the highest mountain in the whole of Spain which is all the more remarkable when you consider that Spain is also home to the Pyrenees. In the Pyrenees, which strech from the Atlantic coast across to the Mediteranean between France and Spain, there are almost fifty peaks higher than 3000m but none are as high as the 3718m peak of Mount Teide.

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The Old Train to Soller in Mallorca


train to soller

If your holiday to Mallorca needs to include more than just endless lazy days relaxing on the beach then the island has plenty to offer those willing to explore the island. Mallorca has dramatic coastal scenery but inland the Tramuntana mountains provide a completely different geography. Almost one hundred years ago a railway line was built to link the capital Palma with the town of Soller in the north west of the island. The purpose of the 27 kilometer line was to ease the commercial development of the Soller area as previously the only way to reach the capital was the long journey over difficult mountain terrain.

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Along the Coast from Marmaris


Sailing boat

The Turkish resort of Marmaris has used its special location on the coast to become a central hub of tourism, but just along the coast there are many more secrets to uncover.

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Canarias Live Sun Festival


guitar and stage lights

Having seen the excitement caused by the UK concert series announced by Michael Jackson recently, it's interesting to see other pop stars popular with previous generations still performing at concerts around the world. The Canary Islands have attracted various stars in the past including Elton John and Rod Stewart is the latest to announce a concert date on Tenerife as part of the Canarias Live Sun Festival in May this year. The concert will take place at the Campo de Golf, Costa Adeje in Tenerife.

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Selecting a new Camera for your Holiday


Sun lotion, sunglasses and camera

Recording the highlights of a great holiday is something most people look to do but with the rush to pack everything before heading to the airport, the camera is something that tends to be left until the last minute. However once in the airport terminal with the bright lights of the duty-free lounge shining and the holiday spirit kicking in, the temptation of the electronics store is too much for some. But buying a new camera at the airport is probably not the ideal thing to do. Perhaps you can pick up a best buy magazine from the airport newsagent before you buy but you won't have much time to read the reviews in depth. Also the choice of models offered may be restricted.

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