Leisure Markets

Orlando, Florida is filled with attractions for vacationers of every age group; it is known for its beaches, golf courses, night life, museums, restaurants, and theme parks. Three all-time tourist favorites include Disney World, Busch Gardens, and Universal Studios, Florida.

Disney World:

The home of Mickey Mouse, Goofy, and Donald Duck is a perennial favorite with not just kids for whom it offers a mind boggling range of things to see and do. The overwhelming extent of experiences that Disney World offers ensures that adults too have a great time. Accommodation at Walt Disney World, which has over twenty hotels, offers a choice to suit every wallet. The Disney Animal Kingdom Lodge and the Disney Contemporary Resort are two of the most popular resorts with a unique theme and excellent service. Vacationers can take advantage of the various promotional packages offered by Disney World from time to time. In one visit, it is not possible to take in all the rides and get ones fill of everything that Disney World has to offer; however there are some classic rides such as Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Peter Pan, Primeval Whirl, etc. The Magic Kingdom, which is spread over 100 acres, can be accessed via the Monorail or the Steamer. It has several attractions of which the chance to pose with Disney characters and getting their autographs is high on the wish-list of many children. It is best to enjoy Disney World in the company of a local acquaintance who can point out the major attractions and also the early-entry days during which hotel-guests are allowed to enter early.

Busch Gardens:

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is an approximately one-hour drive from Orlando. Many vacationers find its location, which is away from the hustle and bustle of Orlando, to be an added attraction. The Busch Garden Shuttle Express is a free service with a 5-Park Orlando Flexi Ticket; its an alternative for those do not wish to travel to the park by road. Busch Gardens offer several exciting attractions that replicate the wonders of Africa. The wildlife includes more than 2,000 animals and thrilling roller-coaster rides are a hit with the kids and adults alike. The Sky Ride cable car affords an excellent view of the park. Attractions at the park also include the Serengeti Railway that has several stations around the park; the Haunted Lighthouse, which is a 4D show for kids over seven; KaTonga, which is a 35-minute musical celebrating African fables; the tomb of King Tut; Serengeti Safari tours; the slides and rides at the Land of the Dragon, and many others. Food at the Busch Gardens ranges from pizzas and turkey legs at Quick Bite and fine dining at the Crown Colony Restaurant. Preferred parking is available alongside the main entrance.

Universal Studios Florida:

Universal Studios in Orlando is the largest studio outside Hollywood. This major tourist attraction of Hollywood has some very popular rides and experiences that are based on hit movies. Terminator 2 is a high-tech 3D adventure; Back to the Future is a simulated ride that has one falling down volcanic tunnels; Twister and Earthquake are other thrill-a-minute shows in which an individual experiences a five-storey volcano and the power of an earthquake. Other attractions at Universal include Kong, Nickelodeon, ET, the Animal Show, etc. The main rides and attractions are at the edges of the oval-shaped Universal plot, which is quite huge. Priority parking and valet parking are available, these make exiting the Universal premises at the end of a fun-filled but tiring day a little easier.

You can’t imagine the feeling of wonder, viewing a vintage aircraft and watching a vintage aircraft flying. Its really awesome to watch the flying machines of our predecessors. Watching vintage aircraft flying is like going through the pages of history of flying machines scripted by some of the yore flying geniuses.

Vintage flying machines of past times are often exhibited at airshows and static airshows. Vintage airshows brings together people from around the world to share their knowledge and interest in the aircraft of yesteryears. These airshows help keeping aviation history alive. They help flying enthusiasts to get together and share their views on flying. Furthermore, these shows are helpful in educating people about aircraft.

Often, the term vintage is used to define old things. Vintage cars are commonly defined as the cars built between the start of 1919 and the end of 1930. However, there are different opinions on the exact vintage period. According to some, the period starting with the end of the World War I and ending with the start of World War II is vintage era.
So, the aircraft belonging to old times or vintage period may be called vintage aircraft. Vintage aircraft include Aeronca 7AC Champ, Beech 18, Beech E17B Staggerwing, Bellanca 14-13 Cruisair, Bellanca 14-19 Cruisemaster, Bcker BU-131 Jungmann, Cessna 120, Cessna 140, Cessna 170, Cessna 190, Cessna 195, Commonwealth 185 Skyranger, De Havilland Chipmunk, Fairchild 24W, Fairchild PT-19, Fairchild PT-26, Fleet 7, Globe GC-1B Swift, Howard DGA-15, Luscombe 8A Silvaire, Monocoupe 110, Naval Aircraft Factory N3N, North American NA-50, Piper J-3 Cub, Piper PA-22 Tri-pacer, Rearwin 9000 Sportster, Ryan PT-22, Ryan STA, Stearman C3-R Business Speedster, Stearman PT-17, Stinson SR-10 Reliant, Stinson V-77, Taylorcraft BC-12D, Travel Air 4-D, Waco ASO, and Waco YKS-7.

Vintage aircraft are beauty to watch. These aircraft are the major attractions of air festivals. Oftentimes vintage aircraft are exhibited and flown at air festivals. Lots of people come to air festivals just to watch the shows of vintage aircraft. These airplanes are usually flown for the pleasure.

You can enjoy watching these vintage aircraft flying. You can watch them closely at static airshows. Most of the airshows allow you go closer and photograph these vintage flying machines. You can know a lot about your favorite vintage airplane, and can even have a chat with the pilots of vintage aircraft at air festivals.

So, if you are fond of vintage flying machines, what are you waiting for? Just rush and grab your tickets for vintage airshow and air festival that is scheduled on November 10th and 11th at Fantasy of Flight in Polk City, FL. You can buy your tickets online.

If you are visiting Paris for the first time, you might be overwhelmed when planning your itinerary and deciding which attractions to visit and in what order. Lets take a look at the top attractions in Paris that are a must see when planning your visit.

First youll want to visit the Eiffel Tower. This icon of Paris is located at Eiffel Tower Champs de Mars. Admission to the tower is 10,70 . The phone number is 33 (0) 1 44 11 23 23. The Eiffel Tower was built in 1899 and was originally supposed to be a temporary symbol for the 1899 Worlds Fair. If you really want to be wowed by this structure, visit it in the evening, as the lights of Paris are a breath taking view from the top floor. The tower includes restaurants and shopping. Tickets to the second floor and the top floor can be purchased at the information office at the base of the tower. Expect to wait for the elevator and expect to be a little confused by its configuration. Even with these slight inconveniences, a trip to Paris wouldnt be complete without a trip to the magnificent Paris icon the Eiffel Tower.

After visiting the Eiffel Tower, your next stop in Paris should be the Muse du Louvre. Admission is 8,50 euros. The phone number is +33 1 40 20 53 17. You may want to plan to visit the Louvre more than once during your trip, as it is impossible to see the entire 30,000 piece collection in the worlds largest museum. The Louvre was built in 1200 and in the 1500s became the royal familys palace. The Louvre was opened as a museum in 1793. In the 1980s, glass pyramids were built to serve as the entrance and are a fantastic sight. Once inside the museum, be sure to stop at the information desk first to pick up a free map and to get the schedule of the 90 minute guided tours being offered that day. The museum can be confusing even with the map and a guided tour is recommended. The Louvre is broken up into three wings: Richelieu, Sully and Denon. Within these three wings, the museum is then divided into nine collections: the History of the Louvre and Medieval Louvre, Oriental Antiquities, Arts os Islam, Egyptian Antiquities, Sculptures, Objects dart, Paintings, Prints and Drawings, and Arts of Africa, Asia, Oceania and the Americas. Photography is allowed at the museum so dont forget your camera.

The next stop on your tour of Paris, France should be the Notre Dame Cathedrale located at 6 place du Parvis Notre-Dame. The Cathedrale Notre-Dame was built in 1163 but was not completed until the 14 th century. This is a very historical sight in Paris. Napoleon crowned himself emperor here and General de Gaulle gave thanks here when the Germans freed Paris. One thing to be wary of is that the Cathedrale is under restoration construction and part of it may be unobservable.

Next on the tour is Basilique du Sacre-Coeur located at 35, rue du Chevalier-de-la-Barre. The phone number is +33 1 53 41 89 00. The main reason for visiting this church that sits atop a large hill just past Montmartes main square is to take in the amazing view of Paris that this location offers. While in the area be sure to walk around the streets of Montmartres Place du Tertre. It is almost as if this area has been frozen in time and remains very similar to the time when Van Gogh resided here.

Top Attractions To See In Torquay (All Squeezed Into One Day)

Arguably the most popular & visited of the three Torbay towns, that describe themselves as the English Rivera.

Torquay has some good beaches to enjoy and also offers the standard English seaside experience of tea rooms and sea-side amusement arcades.

A holiday in Torquay should include a visit to the jubilant harbour area, littered with nice restaurants, pubs and other convenience eateries. It can get quite lively at night time.

What To Do In Torquay:

Babbacombe Beach has a nice harbour and seaside area and is covered by steep hills which offer excellent views of the coast, both by night and day.

Babbacombe Model Village is a charming miniature village containing thousands of buildings. A great attraction for kids.

Kents Cavern is an ancient geological structure and there have been some highly significant prehistoric finds here (some as old as 700,000 years old).

Living Coasts a wonderful wildlife attraction where visitors can come and see penguins, seals, puffins, ducks and countless other marine life in a natural surrounding.

Torquay Museum first opened in 1845, Torquay Museum is worth a visit to discover a wide range of facts about the town. There are exhibitions about everything from history and archaeology to pottery.

Compton Castle About 5 miles west of Torquay lies Compton Castle which was built in stages from the 14th to 16th centuries. The castle itself is a notable attraction but the surrounding grounds are also very popular with tourists because of the feast of lush flowers, shrubs & trees that inhabit it.

Paignton About a 15 minute drive from Torquay is the coastal town of Paignton. If youre in Torquay, its certainly worth visiting Paignton too. Though many argue that its a low-class version of Torquay, there are some nice attractions including a fair seaside resort, zoo, and the impressive Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway. A mere five miles from Paignton is the wonderful little town of Brixham its a highly popular place with tourists and its not difficult to see why – narrow, steep streets brimming with character and a cosy harbour just two of the things that visitors flock to see every year.

Brussels is known for more than just being Europes capital city and any visit to Brussels should include at least some of the below famous landmarks.

Grand Place

It all begins here Brussels most distinguished feature started life as a cobbled marketplace in around the 12th century. Many of the grandeur buildings that make up such a vivid part of Grand Place today werent erected until the 18th century.

The guildhalls that give Grand Place its identity were part of trade societies formed around the 13th century notably butchers, bakers and cloth makers. Each guildhall is distinguished by certain unique designs.

Perhaps the most admired part of Grand Place is the magnificent Hotel de Ville, which was completed in 1444 by architect Jan von Ruysbroeck. Since then, its been described as a gothic masterpiece and one of the most splendid sights in Belgium. Inside, you can take a tour and browse over some wonderful artwork and tapestry from the 15th century. Take in the breathtaking majesty of the conference room boasting ancient tapestry and the Aldermens Room where even today the Mayor holds certain prolific meetings. The final masterpiece of Hotel de Ville is its exquisite belfry described as one of the finest in the world. Now, the Hotel de Ville is the town centre of Brussels.

The Maison du Roi was built in 1536 by (then) Spanish rulers and now houses a fine collection of art, tapestries and Manneken Pis from the 16th century. Meaning Kings House Maison du Roi is now the setting for Musee de la Ville de Bruxelles a collection of medieval art. If youre planning on seeing a number of museums during your stay in Brussels then you may benefit from a Brussels Card which offers free entry to 30 museums for 30 Euros the holder also gets unlimited access on public transport and discounts on various additional attractions and eateries.

Le Pigeon is known as being the home of Victor Hugo, the famous French writer in 1852 after he fled France following the French insurrection and La Maison des Boulangers was built by the guild of bakers a testimony to their power and wealth at the time. Maison des Tailleurs is made famous by the statue of patron saint St Barbara this was the guild of tailors.

One of the best experiences of visiting Brussels is to enjoy a coffee or beer at one of the cafes set within Grand Place and watch the bustle of tourists potter along the cobbled streets while viewing the grandeur.

If you intend on having something to eat in and around Grand Place then theres no shortage of options. If youre in the mood for traditional Belgian fare, try tKelderke which serves up the usual offering of moules et frites at reasonable prices. Katyas Kitchen is also an interesting establishment serving up a variety of cuisine including Asian and more traditional Belgian dishes. There are other restaurants within a stones throw of Grand Place so if these dont take your fancy simply take to the streets until something does.

Try coming back to see Grand Place at night the busy atmosphere and night lights make it a truly enriching experience.

Parc du Cinquantenaire

Beautiful, tree-lined Parc du Cinquantenaire was built as a tribute to the golden celebrations for Belgian independence in 1880. The famous Arc de Triomphe landmark was completed several years after the park was built.

The park houses the Musee de lArmee which is a museum describing Belgiums military history and includes various artefacts stretching back to over two centuries. The gateway into the city is marked by the Central Archway. Interestingly, the park is also home to Autoworld which has hundreds of classic cars on display. Also worth a visit is Musee du Cinquantenaire which has international artefacts from civilisations dating back to the 15th century.

Aside from the many features of Parc du Cinquantenaire its also a very plesant place to take a relaxing stroll indeed its one of the most loved places by the locals who come in droves during weekends and public holidays.

Quartier Royal

Once upon a time the Quartier Royal was the home of Belgian Royalty, though this is no longer the case (the Royal family are now situated in Laeken). Even so, the Quartier Royal are grand and handsome grounds with an eventful history including being utterly destroyed by a fire in 1731 before being rebuilt by the 19th century.

Stretching over a mile long, Rue Royal runs from Quartier Royal to the pleasant Jardin Botanique and is a pleasant way of seeing some fine architecure. The Quartier Royal also houses the Palais Royal, Palais de la Nation and Palais des Academies. The Palais Royal remains the largest of the palaces set within Quartier Royal and boasts a fine throne room, long gallery displaying ceiling paintings and the hall of mirrors. Its open to the public between July and September and is well worth the visit.

The attractive Parc de Bruxelles has some elegant fountains and is lined with trees the park was originally conceived in the 17th century.

Cathedrale Sts Michel et Gudule

This grand cathedral took over three centuries to complete work actually began in 1225, under Henry I (Duke of Brabant) and was completed around the 16th century under Charles V. Saint Gudule was the 7th century saint who the Cathedral was inspired after along with St Michael (Patron Saint of Brussels) whos statue can be seen in the middle of the structure. The Last Judgement window is an exquisite feature of the Cathedral indeed, its the first sight that stands out as you approach. This interesting gothic styled institution is located on Parvis St.-Gudule.

Palais de Justice

Completed in 1883, the Palais de Justice was designed by Joseph Poelaert and remains one of the distinctive constructions in Belgium and unlike many other landmark still functions as it was originally built for in this case the capital of Brussels legal courts. The Palais de Justice is situated along Place Poelaert. Very near the Palais de Justice are Les Marolles which are stuffed with little cafes and tiny shops. For some unusual bargains make your way to the junk market on Sunday mornings on Place du Jeu de Balle.

Palais dEgmont

On rue aux Laines is the unmistakable sight of Palais dEgmont originally built in the 16th century, the palace took on further historical significance in the 1970s as the place where Great Britain officially became a member of the EEC.

Musee dArt Moderne

The multi-storey building that houses this museum is almost as interesting as the exhibits inside as many of the levels are underground. The museum is located on Place Royale and as the name suggests, includes works of art from modern talent (19th century onwards). Also worth a visit is Musee dArt Ancien – displaying art dating as far back as the 15th century and includes a pleasant sculpture garden thats a delight to visit. Musee dArt Ancien is on rue de la Regence.

Le Sablon District

Known as the region where Brussels splits into two (the upper and lower region) the Place du Grand Sablon is a pleasant area with a prolific fountain and the Gothic church of Notre-Dame du Sablon. This prosperous region of Brussels is noted for housing top restaurants, bars & cafes to stop by and enjoy a bite. Aside from visiting the gothic church (completed around the mid 1500s) the Place du Petit Sablon must be seen these delightful gardens are a pleasure to amble along. Sit on the many benches available, peruse the statues and take some pictures of the fountains built to honour Counts Egmont & Hornes.

Atomium

The Atomium (located in Heysel) is one of the most distinguished landmarks of Brussels the structure a giant molecule was constructed in 1958 when Brussels held the world fair. Its well worth a trip to see this interesting structure.

Laeken

This leafy suburb situated north of Brussels is the Belgian equivalent of Windsor it is the residence of the Belgian royalty and is noted for its abundance of greenery and picture-perfect parklands.

Paris, France is the home of European refinement and love. Fashion, historical culture, and overindulgence seem to be around every turn. While there are lots of things to do in Paris, there are five attractions everyone must see at least once when they visit Paris.

Built in 1889, the Eiffel Tower is the icon of Paris. It was erected as tribute to the end of the French Revolution, but today it is one of the most well-known and most recognizable buildings in the world. The magic of the Eiffel Tower can truly be felt when you venture to the top to get a spectacular view of Paris. Going to the top of the Tower right before sunset provides the best views. Please dont try to take the stairs. You can reach the first two levels of the observation decks by foot, but why settle for that when you can ride the elevator to the very top. Somehow the sweat and gasps for breath as you hike up the flights of stairs steals from the romantic mood of the Eiffel Tower but there are the odd fitness gurus who attempt the walk or even run up. After it gets dark, you can see the lights on the Tower twinkle in the twilight. Lights go off at 2 am, so be sure to catch a glimpse before then.

The Louvre is a top attraction in Paris and one of the most famous art museums in the world. Dont make the mistake of thinking you can see it in a day. It will likely take you three days to peruse the famous art work, and take in the majesty of the Louvre. The Louvre is home to famous art like the Venus de Milo and the Mona Lisa. Be sure not to miss a trip to the Louvre on your next visit to Paris.

The Champs Elysees is a famous stretch of road that goes through the center of Paris. It starts at the Arc de Triomphe and goes outward to the Place de la Concorde and is lined with shops, cafes, and 5 star hotels. Bring comfortable shoes since youll want to walk down this avenue to get the full experience. Christmas and New Years are favorite times to visit the Champs Elysees for the lights and hustle and bustle of the holidays.

The Seine river winds through the center of Paris. Taking one of the available river cruises is a popular way to see the many sights of Paris. Take a cruise at night to see the lights of Paris its a whole different cruise to see the city at night.
Its also fun to walk along the banks of the Seine river. Among all the popular buildings, art, and monuments, youll find small stands where people sell tourist items and Paris memorabilia.

Take a short train ride to Versailles to visit the Chateau of Versailles, one of the largest castles in the world and home to the King. The Chateau de Versailles has more than 700 rooms, 1250 fireplaces, 2000 windows, 67 staircases, and over 1,800 acres of gardens. It is a magnificent home which has now been transformed into a museum. You can take a tour of the castle or walk the grounds yourself. There are also restaurants and outdoor restrooms available for tourists.

When vacationing in Paris, stay at Le Meridien Etoile set on the Seine River, a stones throw from the Champs Elysees, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Louvre. This hotel features elegant rooms, fantastic room service, and the best location in Paris. These five attractions are only a small sampling of the variety of fun, interesting, and culturally educating things to do while in Paris.

Located on the sprawling banks of the river Yamuna, Delhi, the capital of India, represents an intriguing blend of a myriad of ancient and the modern civilizations, reflected not only in its diverse cultural heritage and historical monuments but also in the present social structure and lifestyles. The city chronicles the history of the various civilizations and dynasties that flourished here for over 3000 years. Their legacy survives in the many ancient monuments left behind by their rulers, each a chronicle of the glory of its times and a reflection of the prevailing cultures. The remains of seven distinctive capital cities can be seen here.

Here is a pick of the top five tourist attractions in Delhi:

Qutub Minar

A mammoth minaret (238 feet tall) built from the remains of 27 Hindu and Jain temples during the years 11931369, commemorating the victory of Qutab-ud-din over the city’s last Hindu kingdom, Qutub Minar is one of Delhis oldest monuments. Decorated with calligraphy representing verses from the Koran, it tapers from a 50-feet diameter at the base to just 8 feet at the top. The first three floors are built with red sandstone, and the upper two with white marble.

In the same complex stands a mysterious Iron Pillar, bearing fourth-century Sanskrit inscriptions from the period of King Chandragupta II, that has intrigued scientists to no end because it has withstood centuries of climatic upheavals and remained rust-free till today. A popular legend says that if you can encircle it with your arms while standing with your back touching it, any wish will be fulfilled.

Red Fort

Popularly known as Lal Quila and built by Shah Jahan during the years16181647, Red Fort, with its massive sandstone walls and exquisite architecture, is the ultimate reminder of the sheer wealth, splendor and power of the Mughal Empire. There are many must-see places within the fort, resplendent with intricate decoration, with separate rooms and balconies for the womenfolk, swimming pools, and natural air conditioning. It also houses an Archaeological Museum.

Jantar Mantar

Built in 1724 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, this esoteric, awe-inspiring salmon-colored stone-and-brick structure is an observatory used by the king for measuring time and calculating the positions of the stars and planets, and for prediction of eclipses. It houses multiple buildings with unique architectural combinations of geometrical forms, each meant for a specialized purpose of astronomical measurement.

Purana Qila (Old Fort)

Believed to have been built on the ruins of the ancient original city of Delhi (Indraprastha, founded in 3rd or 4th century B.C.), by the Afghan ruler Sher Shah during the years 15381545, the Old Fort with its massive walls and three imposing gateways gives a fair idea of its lost grandeur. It houses a small octagonal red sandstone tower, used by King Humayun as a library, the Qila-i-Kuhran Mosque, and a small archaeological museum.

India Gate

Built in sandstone, India Gate is a war memorial to commemorate the sacrifice of Indian soldiers during World War I. The sheer grandeur of the architecture of the neighboring Parliament House and Rashtrapati Bhawan must not be missed, either.

So, start planning your trip!

Dubai is a city built for tourism all around the year with excellent hotels, resorts, shopping and places to visit. In this article you’ll read a little about the top three attractions that you can visit on your Dubai holiday.

Dubai Creek

At the Dubai Creek visitors can take a small water taxi, called abra, allowing them to see the old trading port and the dhows from the water. The Creek is a natural sea water inlet, and it cuts through the center of the city, this is a historical part of the city. By taking a cruise to Al-Maktoum you will pass many landmarks, both historic and modern. A leisure walk round the walk will impress with a pitoresque glimpse at Dubai’s trading history.

Bastakiya

Curious about the way people were keeping their houses cool in the days before electricity and air conditioning? Then Bastakiya is the place to visit, this district is a step back in time with it’s houses cooled by wind towers. Dubai was famous for these wind towers that were aligned on both sides of the creek. Even today, the narrow lanes are showing the distinctive Arabian architecture that is a popular tourist attraction marked for development.

Souks

These are the traditional markets of Dubai and they are very popular for bargain hunters but sightseers and photographers enjoy them too. The gold souk is the most famous of them, here the streets are full of shops were anything golden can be found at low prices even, rings, bars, and elaborate necklaces. The traditional spice souk has tiny lanes scented with sacks of cinnamon, incense, spices, and dried fruits. Also the modern fish souk bustles with activity but smells in this area are of a more unpleasant nature. On the other streets you can find everything from carpets to traditional pieces or loaves of bread.

These three are not the only attractive objectives in Dubai, many others are available like the Grand Mosque, the Wild Wadi and many others that can make you holiday in Dubai a very interesting one.

Top 10 Tourist Attractions In The Sonoma Wine Country, California

1. Be a Pioneer at Fort Ross State Park

This historical settlement dates back to 1812, when it was an important trading post that helped send vital food supplies to the pioneer communities in Alaska. Be sure to visit the chapel and the Rotchey Houseone of the few surviving original structures. Theyve also reconstructed the blockhouses and stockades, to give visitors a chance to get a feel of life in early America.

2. Visit Lake Sonoma, Healdsburg

Lake Sonoma has something for everyonefamilies, couples, or even individuals seeking a few hours of serene solitude. You can hike, swim, ride a boat or a horse, hunt, and even set up camp.

There are nearly 17,700 acres to explore, full of trails and groves full of oak, madrone, alder, redwood and bay trees. These encircle the lake and the surrounding hills, and are full of amazing wildlifedeer, rabbits, birds, and one of Americas endangered species, the peregrine falcon. In early spring and summer, the forest floor is carpeted with wildflowers of every color.

Bring a picnic basket and a camerathis is one place you cant miss.

3. Experience a Scenic Air Tour Above California

Experience California from a completely different perspective from the air! These amazing aerial tours will take you through the famous Sonoma and Napa Wine Country through vineyards and valleys, over the mountain peaks and the rippling waters of the Pacific Coast. Youll even get to see places accessible only through plane (and imagine what kind of pictures youll be able to take!).

All pilots are FAA certified, and give an informed and interesting commentary on the regions history, geography and ecosystems. Truly an Experience of a Lifetime youll remember forever.

Visitors can also ask for customized tours and photography flights. Visit www.sonomacountyairport.comscenic-air-tours.php for more information or call North Coast Air at: 707-542-8687 (TOUR).

4. Cruise Along Americas Famous Hwy. 1

They dont call this American Road for nothing. Californias state route, Highway 1, takes visitors past one of the worlds longest stretches of coastlines. Enjoy mile after mile of ocean view, refreshing breeze, and clear, blue sky. Then, stretch your legs at any of the many golden beaches. Dive into the water, work on that tan, or lounge in the shade with a cold drink and a good nook.

5. Ooh and Aah at The Old Faithful Geyser

Think of geysers as natural recurring steam baths. These stone cones cast a scalding fountain of water up to 75 feet into the air. However, most breakouts are irregular and unpredictableonly three in the world actually have constant, predictable eruptions.

One of them is found in Calistoga. This Old Faithful erupts every 20 to 30 minutes, though rainfall can cause it to blow more frequently, but with less intensity. Visitors say its an amazing experience that draws oohs and aahs every time. Pack a picnic lunch and grab a table near the geyser.

6. Be a Farmer for a Day on Sonoma County Farm Trails

For one day, you can experience being farmer for daygo berry picking, feed the sheep and llamas, and bite into apples that had been picked off the branches just minutes before. You can get free trail maps that will lead you though different produce farms, breweries, cheese factories and wineries. You can also buy fruits and vegetables directly from the farmer.

You can also sign up for the Gravenstein Apple Fair held every year from August 11 to 12. For more information, visit www.farmtrails.org

7. Enjoy Ferrari Carano Winery

In just 2 decades the Ferrari-Carano winery had become one of Americas leading producers of world class wines. You can schedule a wine tasting tour from Monday to Saturday, and avail of any of the several fun but informative programs. Sample different vintages, paired with cheese, chocolate and dried fruit.

Test your smell memory. Find out how to pair wine with different dishes. Or, ask for a customized tour (by appointment only).

Schedule wine tours by emailing Mandy Cuthbert at mandy@fcwinery.com. You can also take your trip to new heights with an amazing aerial tour of the regions vineyards. Visit http:www.SonomaCountyAirport.com to book your memorable scenic air tour.

8. Visit Ancient Redwood Trees at Petrified Forest, Calistoga

Geologists say that the Petrified Forest in Calistoga has one of the worlds best fossil forests. These ancient redwood trees were buried under tons of volcanic ash, freezing life as it was 3,000 years ago. So, when you walk through the woods, you literally walk back in timeseeing insects and animals (some of them now extinct), ancient leaves turned to stone, caught mid-furl.

The park is dotted with signposts that explain key fossils and geology. At the end of the 20 minute tour, visitors can relax in the picnic area.

9. Go on a Wild Safari at Safari West Animals

This unique 400 acre wildlife preserve is home to over 400 animals and birds, some of them endangered. There are zebras, giraffes, lemurs, several cats and much, much more. Great for families and all nature lovers, its the closest people can get to an African reserve while on American soil.

The tours last three hours each and are led by an experienced naturalist. Visitors are also free to explore the inner compound at leisure, where they can make friends with friendly animals like giraffes and moneys, and enjoy the music of the birds in the open-air aviary.

Entrance fee is 58 per person. For more information, visit http:www.safariwest.com

10. Come Say Hi to Snoopy at the Charles M Schulz Museum

The world owes much to Charles M. Schultz, the creator of the beloved comic strip, Peanuts. His lovable characters were not only funny, but often incredibly philosophicalfrom the existential angst of Charlie Brown, to the carefree spirit of Snoopy.

Charles Schultz closest friends and family established the Schultz museum in 2002, in the heart of his hometown, Sonoma County. Collections include over 6,000 drawings, samples of thematic work from 1950 to 2000, and priceless preliminary sketches for Peanuts.

Direct flights straight into the heart of the Wine Country are now available at none other than the Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport. The Airport was recently re-named to pay tribute to the local artist.

Discover all you need to know about visiting the California Wine Country at:
http:www.SonomaCountyAirport.com

While youre there, make sure to sign up to win a FREE Trip to the Wine Country – one lucky winner is chosen every 30 days.

1. MOUNT KILIMINJARO TANZANIA

The highest mountain on the African continent, Kili measures an astounding 19,340 feet at her highest point. The challenge to climb this majestic mountain has lured many to scale her heights, a demanding but worthwhile ascent by most accounts. Kili, which has five distinct ecological zones, is an extinct volcano.

2. OKAVANGO DELTA – BOTSWANA

The champagne-coloured waterways of this famous floodplain form the basis of a pristine Wetland of International Importance (RAMSAR). With some of the most fantastic birding globally and a wild dog population, the largest inland delta in the world is often called Africas most beautiful destination. The region can be explored by land, boat and air. Enjoy the spectacular diversity of flora and fauna species.

3. THE EGYPTIAN PYRAMIDS

Easily the most recognizable of the 7 Wonders of the World, the Egyptian Pyramids have long held fascination for thousands of people. Recent resurgence of interest Egyptology has made trips to this alluring destination more popular than ever. The majority of visitors view the pyramids at Giza. The origins of these majestic structures continue to be a source of lively debate, while the stories of ancient curses and grave robbers delight us all.

4. PONTA DO OURO MOZAMBIQUE

With around 100 Bottlenose and Spinner dolphins making the sheltered waters of Ponta du Ouro their home, this region is definitely worth visiting. Dive the reefs to 40 metres in depth; they are teeming with a rainbow of marine life. Dolphin dives are a popular while in winter the haunting call of the humpback whale can be heard.

5. KRUGER NATIONAL PARK – SOUTH AFRICA

The oldest, most established reserve in Africa, the Kruger boasts an amazing variety of game and bird life throughout its numerous habitats. The fantastic opportunities to view the Big Five draw many visitors to the park, hoping to spot lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and black rhinoceros. Game drives and guided walking trails offer great animal watching opportunities in the African bush.

6. DJEMAA el FNAA SQUARE MARRAKESH MOROCCO

A tapestry of colours, smells, sites and wonderful local characters make a visit to this bustling marketplace an unforgettable experience. Be entertained by fortune tellers, street performers and henna women. The Municipal Market sells local fresh produce. Take a ride in a Horse-drawn carriage and enjoy the spectacular sunset. More performers come out in the evening and entertain till midnight. Enjoy the famous local orange juice or mint tea!

7. THE SERENGETI – TANZANIA

The Serengeti National Park, covering 14,763 sq. km, is named endless plains in Masai. Here are 35 species of mammals, including wildebeest, zebra, lion, cheetah, leopard, elephant and giraffe, and over 200 species of birds.
The annual wildebeest migration is possibly the most spectacular natural event in Africa.

8. THE VICTORIA FALLS ZIMBABWE

From either Zimbabwe or Zambia you can experience the worlds largest sheet of falling water. The spray can be seen up to 30 kilometres away – hence the local name Mosi-oa-Tunya – “The smoke that thunders”.

Apart from the spectacular views including permanent rainbows arcing across the face of the falls, one can experience the waters along the river at closer quarters with white water rafting.

9. LAKE MALAWI

The 3rd largest lake in Africa is a tropical paradise. The tranquil waters lap against shores lined with palm, mango, banana and avocado trees. Here you can kayak, while snorkeling offers access to the colourful kaleidoscope of endemic cichlids found at this UNESCO world heritage site.

10. TABLE MOUNTAIN SOUTH AFRICA

This iconic landmark stands in the centre of the beautiful city of Cape Town.

Climb, or experience the wonders of the revolving cable car. Either way a visit to one of the most recognizable mountains in the world is a must for your trip around the great African continent. And while youre there, enjoy the wonders of Cape Town beaches, winelands, Robben Island each one a Top 10 in its own right!