Beach Resort asked:

Unspoilt and miraculously unexplored, Poovar Island is a rare find in Southern Kerala. Enveloped by the most serene backwaters and opening out to the Sea and a dream golden beach, this Island Resort is Truly a window into Paradise.When you are looking for a hidden holiday, here is how to find it – get out of this world, come to Poovar Island Resort. Located on the backwaters, the resort offers you total privacy on this naturally secluded land.

On the South-Western coast of India, sandwiched between the Arabian Sea and the majestic mountains of the Western Ghats, lies a narrow strip of beautiful land. A bountiful land famed for its awe-inspiring natural beauty.The lush and verdant land called Kerala,the ‘God’s Own Country’.Poovar Island Resort,http://www.poovarislandresort.com, features a variety of unique habitats. A total of 54 cottages set in a spacious 25 acres. Charming land cottages, 54 land cottages,built in typical Kerala architecture,spread across the island fringed with coconut groves offer you traditional ambience combined with state-of-the-art facilities.

Amazing view of 16 floating cottages afloat on backwaters make every visitor wonder with delight.he ‘Ayurveda Village’ is one of the few places where this 6000 year old ancient healthcare system is still practiced at its purest form. A team of experienced doctors and masseurs apply the traditional know how with care, at the right environment to maximise the healing potential. A thoughtfully crafted package of therapies designed to relax, refresh and rejuvenate you. Guaranteed to make you not only feel younger but also look younger.

Of course, Poovar Island Resort also offers all the other trappings you would expect from a leisure holiday. Here, the culinary treats conjured up by master chefs evoke passions. Every meal is a feast fit for the gods. As for ingredients, nothing less than the very best will do, fresh catch from the sea, exotic spices, orchard-fresh fruits and vegetables.

Poovar Island Resort has a special sunken poool bar at the Swimming pool. Enjoy your favourite drink, beverage or fruit juices while on swim. The Kid’s Pool, alongside the main Swimming Pool is a sure dive for the water fun.The extensive green landscape, dotted with palm trees, offer avenues for private enjoyments outside your cottages.

Watersports facilities, indoor games, cookery classes, outdoor barbecue can add upto your holiday experience at Poovar. A special boutique shop showcasing indigenous arts and crafts is a most convenient place to catch upon for souvenir hunting. Typical kerala artefacts, woodcarvings, handicrafts, Shawls, blankets, jewelleries are some of the favourite picks at this boutique shop.

http://www.poovarislandresort.com

http://www.poovarislandresort.com/floatingcottages.html

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Christel Lumabas asked:

One unique fact about the Philippines is that we have more than 7,000 islands altogether– and this fact can excite most travelers from around the world. Since the Philippines is situated near the equator, the country is considered as the tropics, with temperatures perfect for a day at the beach. Philippine travel usually consists of island hopping, checking out some virgin sceneries, and visits to great local cities.

For serious travelers, they may opt for luxury vacations in the Philippines through exposure to the beauty of the country’s natural resources.

In every foreign place, one would not help but think of communicating with the locals. But when you are in the Philippines, any travelers with English speaking skills need not to worry, because around 85 percent of the locals can understand English. In any case, for any vacation or travel spot in the country, there is a Filipino in the area that can speak and understand English.

Language barriers aside, the exchange rate may also be quite favorable for travelers. With cheap accommodations, food, and services, any traveler may easily have a luxurious vacation without them feeling the pain in their wallets. In other words, everything is on sale.

The tropical islands of the Philippines showcase some of the best beaches in Southeast Asia, and also the most colorful coral reefs in the world. The far fetched island of Palawan features one of the country’s best hotel accommodations, with popular guests such as Mariah Carey and Brian McKnight. The island boasts of clear blue waters, pristine white sand, and rich sea life– all with a relaxed environment. Palawan may be considered as a spot for luxury vacations, simply because of the exquisite accommodations and hotels, such as the infamous Amanpulo. The resort features world class amenities that can rejuvenate and change your perspective of the country altogether. Amanpulo can be reached through charter plane from Manila, and usually costs around $300 per person. Once there, any guest can enjoy all amenities for $850 per person, for a whole week! So if you want to see and experience the Amanpulo in Palawan, try to book ahead of time so as to have proper reservations.

Another popular destination when it comes to luxury vacations would be the in the island of Boracay. This long stretch of pure white sand beach offers not only relaxation, but a boost on social gatherings with beach front parties and good restaurants, offering both local and foreign delicacies. Boracay provides luxury vacations for locals and foreigners visiting the country, with full hotel accommodations to huts by the beach front. Other key destinations include Cebu and Davao, and also key historic landmarks such as Bataan and Corregidor, not to mention the fascinating sights in Manila and Iloilo.

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World Big Cat Safaris asked:

World Primate Safaris is a very successful specialist tour operator that sends people out ot Africa and Asia to track some of the most endangered primates in the world, and at the end of 2008 their sister company World Big Cat Safaris was launched.

Again, World Big Cat Safaris relies on their expert knowledge of the areas they specialise in to make themselves different to everyone else. The 3 tour consultants in the office are ex tour leaders and guides from the various regions of Africa and so their first hand knowledge is second to none.

World Big Cat Safaris are specialists safaris to track the Big Cats of the world. They tailor adventure or luxury safaris with a selection of mobile camps and luxury lodges in some of the best wildlife areas in the world…Safari Holidays are our speciality whether it be a tiger safari in India or an African Safari to Botswana.

World Big Cat Safaris donates a percentage of each safari sold towards the conservation of endangered Big Cats throughout the world. Holidays can be tailored to meet each specific clients requirements including luxury honeymoon safaris, family African Safaris, walking safaris and much, much, more.

World Big Cat Safaris offers a selection of traditional Kenya Safari Holidays to see the savannah game of the Masai Mara. Kenya is at the forefront of wildlife conservation and community led initiatives and is perfect for a honeymoon safari or family safari and beach relaxation.

Tanzania is a prime wildlife safari destination. Your Tanzania Safari can combine the wonderful Serengeti National Park, the stunning Ngorongoro Crater and the pristine tropical islands of Zanzibar or Pemba. Your Tanzania Safari should make the most of the fantatsic selection of luxury lodges and camps that are now available throughout Tanzania.

Wildlife in Botswana is the highlight. The Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park provide the ultimate locations for your Botswana Safari. An expensive safari destination, Botswana provides luxury safari accommodation with unique access to private concessions providing the ultimate in wildlife safari viewing.

Your South African Safari can consist of a multitude of interesting activities including a wildlife safari in the Kruger National Park or its surrounding private concessions, the winelands of the Cape and some of the most scenic coastal drives in the world. A luxury South African safari is actually very good value for money in comparison to other African Safari destinations.

Zambia Safaris are up and coming as Zambia is new as an African Safari destination. Your Zambia Safari will concentrate primarily on a few areas, including South Luangwa Valley, Lower Zambezi, Kafue National Park and the renowned Victoria Falls. Walking Safaris are also a highlight with some of the best African Safari guides available on the continent.

A Tiger Safari in India is the highlight of any wildlife enthusiast’s career. A typical India safari may consist of the one horned rhinos of Kaziranga, the Asiatic Lions of Sasan Gir National Park and of course the endangered but majestic Bengal Tigers. The best places to visit for your India Tiger Safari include the historic Corbett National Park, Ranthambhore, Bandhavgarh and the tiger park of Kanha.

The large predators are what people want to see when they go on a safari and with World Big Cat Safaris they will put you in the best place to maximize your chances of seeing them………….

 

 

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E Cho asked:

If you’re ready to get away and take the family to a beach that’s relaxing and entertaining for adults, but that still keeps the trip fun and exciting for the kids, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 beaches in the world for families. So, let’s start the countdown from number five and work our way to the very best beach.

5. Trunk Bay, St. John in the Virgin Islands

Trunk Bay is part of the Virgin Islands National Park, and probably the least known beach in our list. But, it is one of the best kept secrets of the Virgin Islands. With the offshore coral reefs, Trunk Bay beach is considered the best on the island of St. John.

Visitors can lounge in the sun, or explore the coral reefs in the pristine waters off the coast of St. John. You can even try your hand at underwater photography with the snorkeling equipment rentals available. For more adventure you can take the family hiking into the park to see old sugar plantations and the history of St. John.

4. Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is a popular hotspot and home to some of the best beaches in the world. The best time of the year to visit this Mexican paradise is around November or December. You’ll avoid the spring breakers and the tropical storm season that usually hits in September or October. It’s also the best time to get a deal, and when traveling as a family, good rates are important.

Since you’ll want to find accommodations close to or on the beach, you’ll find your best bets on the famous Hotel Zone, which is a 14 mile peninsula into the Caribbean Sea. Our pick for the best hotel in Cancun is the Barcelo Costa situated on the Playa Linda Beach in Cancun. This resort is close to the golf course, shopping and of course, the beach.

3. St. Tropez, France

Most people think of Hollywood stars and clothing optional beaches when they hear St. Tropez. However, there are several family friendly beaches in St. Tropez that feature beach playgrounds, and places to find snacks for the kids. Stay away in the summer months as there are hordes of people on the beaches and in the shops. June and September are the best months to take the family to the beach so you can still enjoy the warm climate, but avoid the masses.

The Amarante Golf Plaza Hotel sits on the Bay of St. Tropez and features luxury amenities like a swimming pool, fitness room, golf and tennis, and serves gourmet food in their on-site restaurant.

2. Paradise Island, Bahamas

Paradise Island is small at only 5 square miles, but it is heaven for beach goers. Besides the sandy beaches there are lots of fun things to do with the family including shopping along the quaint streets, eating local cuisine, or venturing through the 100-foot underwater tunnel to see sharks, barracudas, and stingrays.

The Atlantis is the premier location to stay in Paradise Island, with water activities for the kids and a full 18-hole golf course. On their Cabbage Beach you can parasail, jetski, and snorkel.

1. Surfers Paradise Beach, Australia

Surfers Paradise Beach is our top pick because of the selection of activities for people young and old. The beaches are gorgeous, the water clear and inviting, and a ton of fun attractions at the Gold Coast. There are plenty of theme parks like Sea World and Movie World. Activities run the range from shopping, laying on the beach, snorkeling, surfing, fishing, and even bungee jumping. At night they have hopping clubs and a casino.

The Gold Coast International Hotel is far and away the best pick for luxury accommodations in Surfers Paradise. Featuring spacious rooms, top rate service, clean swimming pool, world class restaurant and bar, the beaches should be the first destination when traveling to Surfers Paradise, on Australia’s Gold Coast.

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Scott Taylor asked:

You’re strolling along white sand beaches, your toes digging into the warmth. Sunshine is sparkling off whitecaps on the crystal blue as you splash in the sea. Perhaps another cocktail? A seaside concert? Dinner at a 4-star restaurant? Wow, surely you must be vacationing along the famed Amalfi Coast in Italy, or along the luxurious French Mediterranean, or maybe even one of the tropical Hawaiian Islands, right? Wrong!

You’re in Croatia!

That’s right – this once war-torn country that just recently won its final independence is quickly becoming known as one of the best beach vacation destinations in the world.

That’s right – this once poor eastern European country hidden under years of oppression is now being revealed as the seaside gem that cannot be missed for the jet set and suburban traveler alike.

With some of the most well-known world vacation beaches being overrun by crowds, exorbitant prices, and tourist traps on every corner, the time to find a new sandy retreat is desperately needed. Acclaimed as being more hospitable, more beautiful, and more affordable than almost any other coastal destination, Croatia offers a lot of everything for any beach lover. Let’s take a look at the three best Croatian regions within which to dip your toes into the Adriatic.

Istria

If you have never been to Croatia, there is no better place to start than Istria. Located in western Croatia, Istria’s coastline stretches on for miles and is dotted with numerous gorgeous beaches, bays, and quaint villages that will magically transport you to a better time. Bordering Italy, Austria, and Slovenia, Croatia is like a European smorgasbord of culture, cuisine, and cool sea breezes!

Because Istria was held by Italy before World War II, you will find colorful Italian traditions and culture around every corner. Whether you want to eat authentic Italian truffles, stay in a beautiful palazzo, or simply feel like you are in Italy for a fraction of the price, Istria the place for you.

If you want a break from sunbathing on the beach or one of the countless offshore island paradises, Istria is filled with incredible historical and cultural attractions. Whether you want to take a tour of the medieval architecture in Pazin or take in a concert in Groznjan, Istria is the place to be (and, if you don’t ever want to leave, lucky for you, there’s never been a better time to buy real estate in Istria either). It’s hard to imagine any more romantic destination than Istria, but – believe it or not – you can find just that in nearby Dalmatia.

Dalmatia

One of my all-time favorite regions of Croatia is the Dalmatian Coast. Located in the southern part of the country, Dalmatia is reminiscent of the most dramatic spots along the French or Italian Riviera – but without nearly as many tourists as either of these locations (or of Istria either).

The first thing you’ll notice in this region is the water. It’s the clearest, most sparkling blue you’ll find anywhere in the world. The entire coast – all its islands, coves, and beaches – seem to glow with an enchanted feel.

Again, if you’re looking for a sightseeing break, historical cities like Sibenik, Zadar, Dubrovnik, and Split, along with the nearby spectacular mountain ranges like Biokovo and Velebit, are just a hop, skip, and jump away. With its renowned national parks as well as the Krka rapids, the Kornati archipelago, and the Mljet Islands, you may just have to move here to take it all in.

After you finish your day – whether soaking in the sun or taking in the sights, you’ll be happy to know that Dalmatia loves the Italian tradition of the midday siesta. So even if you become exhausted after your daily Dalmatian adventures, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to take things slowly and learn what rest and relaxation really means.

Kvarner

In northern Croatia you’ll find the Kvarner Gulf. With mild weather, exotic beaches, and amazing islands, this is one of the most popular regions along the coast – made even more enjoyable because the ideal climate makes a visit enjoyable at any time of the year.

Spilling over with quiet seaside cities and breathtaking scenery, Kvarner is the ideal place for a vacation or for peaceful living. For those seeking a more laid back trip, Kvarner was custom made for you – relaxed, easygoing, and everything at your pace.

Plus, with limitless activities to fill your day or sandy beaches where you simply lay back and relax, Kvarner has a little bit of something for everything. However, if you choose to sightsee, there is no better daytrip than the short trip across the bridge to the beautiful island Krk, or to view the one-of-a-kind architecture in the heart of Rijeka.

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As you can see, Croatia – this hidden gem that’s tucked away along the Adriatic Sea – is just waiting for you. Don’t delay – the time to see Croatia, to tuck your toes into its coastal sands, and to sip on a romantic cocktail as the sun sets over the sea is right now. Take advantage of favorable prices, small crowds, and untouched pristine coastlines that are guaranteed to be more beautiful than anything you could imagine.

 

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Travel Guru asked:

When I think of France I don’t immediately think of beautiful beaches, I think of Paris. But I stand corrected because southern France has some of the most beautiful beaches on the world. There are actually a variety of beaches to please every kind of taste. France is surrounded by water, the English Channel, Atlantic Ocean, and the Mediterranean Sea.

The French Riviera is located on the eastern Mediterranean coast from Cannes to Menton. This is the France holiday you want to take if you are looking for upscale adult vacationing. The Côte d’Azur is the coast to the south and is the ideal spot for “alone time” although it can get a little crowded in some spots. It is also a great spot for surfing. Brittany on the north Atlantic coast and the surrounding area has beaches with family attractions.

Cannes

While the world famous film festival may keep tourists busy, there is no denying the beach here is fun. This is a lighthearted beach town, steeped in the arts and film. Check out the sand castles while you are on the beach. If you hunt for bargains, this can be a reasonable beach vacation.

Beach at Nice

This beach is enormously popular on the French Riviera. The actual beach is comprised of pebbles instead of sand. It is very crowded in the summer.

Menton Beach

Menton is a quaint little beach town and of all the beaches on the French Riviera, Menton’s beaches are the most family friendly. The atmosphere is much more relaxed and it isn’t the wild partying beach town that its neighbors are.

Monaco

The beaches in Monaco are upscale and are adjacent to opulent high-rise hotels and casinos. This is an adult environment and there is plenty of fun to be had sun bathing during the day and gambling at night.

Arcachon Beaches

The small town of Arcachon sits next to the Atlantic Ocean. This beach area is free of crowds except at peak time of summer vacation. If you visit this beach you must walk along the Dune du Pyla, which lies between the ocean and the largest forest in France, Les Landes. This is huge dune elevated and overlooks the Atlantic.

Biarritz Beaches

While the Biarritz beachfront was once wildly popular, in the last forty or fifty years tourists have migrated to the French Riviera to empty their wallets. While these may not the most ideal beaches, they are less crowded, have less traffic, and have less expensive accommodations. Beaches are free to visit.

Garoupe Beach – Cap d’Antibes

This is a very exclusive beach that is split off into sections some of which are free to the public. This beach faces the east so when you are on the beach the sun is not in your face. It is also sheltered from the wind and this makes it pleasant.

St. Jean de Luz St.

Jean de Luz beach is located just south of Biarritz in the town of St. Jean de Luz. This is a clean well-kept beach with a nice sea wall separating the beach from the town. The architecture of the town has been carefully preserved and the old 17th and 18th century structures are just gorgeous. This is a quiet and peaceful beach experience.

Cap d’Agde

Located next to Montpellier, Cap d’Agde is famous for their **** beaches. But apparently the tendency to divest one’s clothes may extend to the entire city. Maybe we should leave the kiddies at home.

La Rochelle

This is a quaint port town located on the Atlantic coast. The beach has shallow waters and is great for families with young children.

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Ken E. English asked:

It is situated on Foa Island, Ha’apai Group, and can be reached from the international airport on Tongatapu in 35 minutes followed by a ten minute car ride.

That in actual point of fact is the theory, but it doesn’t always work that way, but the owner meets you at the airport, so if you are even several hours later than expected, don’t worry.

Life at Sandy Beach Resort has its own timetable, and things do happen slowly in the South Pacific, but we didn’t go there for 21st century facilities.

We wanted an escape from the cocoon that 5* hotels have become, increasingly the same, no matter where in the world you have travelled to. What you will find at the Sandy Beach Resort is no pollution, no blaring radios, TV, or for that matter people!!

Boris and his father will look after you very well indeed, and the food in the restaurant is good if a little repetitive, in that it is mainly seafood based, although it suited us fine. You need to remember that there isn’t much agriculture on Tonga, and corned beef appears to be a staple!!

Life here is different, things don’t turn up, like aeroplanes, supplies, so just chill!!

The beach, which is almost on the doorstep of your fale, [chalet, bure ] are whatever you want to call it, is quite the most beautiful beach we have ever seen anywhere. It is very private here, indeed you could walk a few yards and never see another soul.

The water is the kind of turquoise colour you can only dream about, and you can snorkel almost off the beach, and see beautiful fish. Neither of us scuba dive, but I gather that was pretty good if you did.

This a real south pacific vacation. You do get one of the best white beaches, in fact one of the worlds best beaches, what you don’t get is an international hotel and five star service, but who wants it anyway.

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