Walt Disney World Swan - Orlando

Orlando’s history dates back to 1838 and the height of the Seminole Wars. The U.S. Army built Fort Gatlin south of the present day Orlando City limits to protect settlers from attacks by Indians.

By 1840, a small community had grown up around the Fort. It was known as Jernigan, named after the Jernigan family, who had established the first permanent settlement in the area. Jernigan had a post office, established May 30th, 1850.

Six years later with the settlement expanding northward, the community officially changed its name to Orlando. In 1857, the U.S. Post Office adopted the name change. The Town of Orlando was incorporated in 1875 with 85 inhabitants, 22 of whom were qualified voters.

History is not as clear on where the name Orlando originated. There are four stories that are told. One involves Judge James Speer, who worked hard in getting Orlando as the county seat, naming Orlando after a man who once worked for him. Another is that Speer named it after a character from Shakespeare’s, "As You Like It".

A third version has Mr. Orlando on his way to Tampa with a caravan of ox. It is said that he got ill, died and was buried, and that folks would come by and say, "There lies Orlando"

The most common story is about a company of soldiers on duty during the height of the Seminole Wars. After battling Indians back into the swamps on the east side of Lake Minnie (now Cherokee), the military troop settled there for the night. Sentinel Orlando Reeves was guarding the camp when he spotted a log floating toward him. Recognizing the Indian disguise and wanting to warn his fellow soldiers, he fired his gun. Arrows felled the poor fellow as the Indians came out to ambush the camp. The Indians were chased back again, and the south side of Lake Eola was chosen to bury Orlando Reeves.

Location. Topped by two giant swans, the aptly named Walt Disney World Swan in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., is a massive resort stocked with endless amenities and convenient guest services. Guests can take a short riverboat ride from the hotel to Disney’s Hollywood Studios™, Epcot and Disney's Boardwalk entertainment area. A short walk across the street lands guests at Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf, where even the smallest guests can putt with small plastic clubs.

Hotel Features. The hotel shares recreational activities with The Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort, including a swimming complex suitably coined The Grotto. This three-acre water playground is complete with waterfalls, slides, water volleyball and spa tubs. Active guests can enjoy four tennis courts, a basketball court and a jogging path. Guests can paddle along Crescent Lake, or play volleyball on the hotel's white sand beach. The hotel also features enormous convention facilities, various gift shops and a children's camp with arts and crafts, movies and video games. Dining options include the Garden Grove Café, traditional Italian fare at Il Mulino New York Trattoria and Japanese sushi at Kimonos. Thoughtful amenities include computer rentals, ATM, laundry facilities, concierge services and currency exchange.

Guestrooms. Sophisticated guestrooms, designed by renowned architect Michael Graves in 2003, include views of the resort, Crescent Lake or the pools. Guests appreciate high-speed Internet access for a fee, minibars and in-room safes. Westin Heavenly beds feature down comforters (bedspreads) and pillowtop mattresses.

Expert Tip. At each of the restaurants on different days, children will love character dining, where Disney characters come to guests' tables to entertain, sign autographs and pose for photographs.  Go to: Orlando Disney World Swan

Commodore V Waterfront hotel: Vacations at Cape Town - South Africa

Cape Town is the Mother City, South Africa’s oldest city, and one of the world’s most beautiful.

Situated at the south-western tip of South Africa and the African continent, it’s the city of Table Mountain, of Robben Island, of the beautiful Kirstenbosch Gardens, and the spectacular Cape Point... But aside from its natural assets, it’s home to colourful characters from a cross-section of cultures and it has a fascinating history.

A national park within city limits. Two World Heritage Sites. Enough said. Cape Town has one of the widest ranges of attractions in the world. This includes a diverse mix of cultural and heritage sites, outdoor and adventure activities, health and wellness options, entertainment, nature and environment, and wining and dining.

A proud host city for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™, Cape Town is about 1 400km (870mi) from Johannesburg by road and 1 600km (994mi) from Durban (both about a two-hour flight away).

Cape Town is set in one of the most beautiful locations in the world. It is dominated by the mood-setting Table Mountain, which cradles the busy commercial hub of the city between itself and the Atlantic Ocean. It is a key tourist destination because of diverse scenery that includes beaches, forests, mountains and wildlife, but at the same time offers the international visitor world-class service in some of the best hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions and shopping malls in the world.

The city is known for its good weather and outdoor lifestyle. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities on vacations, from skydiving off Lion’s Head onto the world-renowned Camps Bay beach, to sitting at one of the many outdoor cafés enjoying the mix of local flavours and people. There are fun activities for the whole family, romantic destinations for couples, and an exciting nightlife for all ages.

Walk the streets of Cape Town, meet its people and fall in love with a city of hope, creative freedom and incredible spirit.

The Commodore V&A Waterfront hotel is next door to the busy V and A waterfront in Cape Town, South Africa. The hotel is five kilometres from Table Mountain. Robben Island is 20 minutes away by boat. Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is 22 kilometres away.

Hotel Features. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors frame the seafront entrance to The Commodore hotel's spacious lobby, featuring sleek wood flooring and fresh flower displays. The adjacent high-ceilinged lounge is decorated with exposed beams and a fireplace. Staff at the 24-hour guest relations desk can arrange Harley Davidson and helicopter safaris, and Winelands tours.
The Clipper Restaurant provides complimentary buffet breakfast. It also serves a wide- ranging international menu featuring dishes like Moroccan spiced lamb and chicken supreme stuffed with biltong and cheese. There's a pretty terracotta courtyard, with wrought-iron furnishings and a fishpond, for alfresco dining. Snacks and cocktails are on offer at the 24-hour Admiralty Lounge, with its comfortable sofas and relaxing atmosphere. Room service is available 24 hours.

The Americas Cup conference room seats 70, while the Blue Ribbon Room can accommodate 30 people. The hotel has a well-equipped business centre, and complimentary Internet access in public areas.

The Commodore hotel has an outdoor pool, and a well-equipped gym with sauna and steam room. The onsite Skin Wellness Spa provides massages, facials and body wraps in a calm minimalist setting.

Guestrooms. Decorated in a nautical style, The Commodore's 233 air-conditioned guestrooms offer dark wood furniture and artworks. All rooms have high-speed Internet ports (surcharge), refrigerators, minibars, cable television, tea/coffee making facilities and safes. Bathrooms offer bath/shower combinations.

Expert Tip. The Commodore's next-door partner hotel has an authentic Cape Malay restaurant occupying the former Cape Colony convict station. Go to: Accommodations, Resorts & Vacations Deals @ RealAdventures

Incredible Vacations & Great Getaways

Vacation at Riga, Latvia- Nordic Hotel Bellevue

Latvia is one of Northern Europe's most exciting places hidden away from the world's view for over half a century by the Soviet occupation. Prior to the occupation, Latvia was one of the most dynamic parts of Europe with exciting possibilities. After the collapse of the Soviet system, Latvia is struggling to regain its strength and place in the world.

There is a lot to do and see in Latvia from the untouched nature to the historic buildings dating back to the days of the great trading in the Hanseatic League. You can also see elements of the Soviet leftovers - this makes you step back and wonder what could have been without those awful years!

Come and experience for yourself this very special country and the possibilities of its exciting future. Granted, after the economic collapse of 2009 it is not as bright as it should be. But, we still hold out hope that the leadership will finally come to their senses and take serious action to simplify the government and start treating the Latvian people with the respect that they deserve.

Outside of Riga, be prepared to step back into history as the infrastructure in most parts is not yet developed as that in Riga. Be patient and understanding and you will have a remarkable experience.

This port in the Baltic region has charming 17th-century streets and a medieval old town. City tours visit the historic sites of the old town, including 13th-century St. George's Church and Livonia Knights' Castle, now an art and history museum. Wandering the crooked streets on your own is one of the pleasures of this city.

Nordic Hotel Bellevue is located in the centre of the city of Riga, Latvia. It lies 200 metres from the Opera House and 300 metres from the Old Town.

Hotel Features: This seven-storey hotel is housed in a period building built in Art Nouveau style. Spa facilities include a steam room, spa tub, and massage and beauty treatments. Multilingual staff at the 24-hour front desk can offer concierge services, tour assistance, and the use of a safe-deposit box. The air- conditioned public areas have complimentary wireless Internet access, computer rental is available, and complimentary newspapers are on offer in the lobby. There is a porter and limited-hours room service is available.

Restaurant Bel Ami serves modern French dishes in a traditional setting. A complimentary full English buffet breakfast is provided.

Guestrooms: The 112 guestrooms have light contemporary decor and modern furnishings including desks. All are equipped with satellite television with pay movies, air conditioning, and wired Internet access (surcharge). Other standard amenities include safes, minibars, and sewing kits. Hair dryers and makeup mirrors are provided.

Go to:  Riga Offers at Hotels Combined

Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa - Mexico

With a Mexican heart and a Caribbean soul, Cozumel is a paradise where tradition, flavor and joy come together. You will always find a friendly face and a warm welcome to make your stay an unforgettable one.

Famous all over the world for its coral reefs, there are plenty of water sports such as diving, deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, kayaking and more. Cozumel's mostly undeveloped territory at the center of the island is covered by jungle and swampy lagoons, which are home to tiny mammals and endemic birds that have never left the island. Noteworthy is the Chankanaab National Park, a Cozumel icon, and the Punta Sur Ecological Reserve. This huge protected area at the southern tip of the island includes Punta Celarain and its historical lighthouse, as well as the Colombia Lagoon, a shelter for many of the island's endemic species, as well as other endangered forms of life, such as marine turtles and their nesting areas.

With its beautiful beaches and exotic locale, Cozumel is an ideal destination where honeymooners can enjoy colorful and breathtaking sunsets, moonlit walks on secluded beaches, swim through crystal clear blue waters and romantic candlelight dinners

A FIVE-STAR GEM ON A HALF-MILE PRIVATE BEACH Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa is the perfect balance of energy and ease. Adventurers love the scuba centre and nearby Chankanaab Park. Bringing the kids? The resort’s Chiqui Club will keep them busy all day. When you want a slightly slower pace, you can head for our stretch of white sand, the exotic Mandara Spa or Cozumel’s shops.

Commanding presence on a one half mile strand of private Caribbean beach, the Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort rests less than three kilometers from shopping districts in Cozumel, Mexico. The Cozumel Convention Center is less than five kilometers away. There's always something special happening at an InterContinental hotel. Whether you are looking for a fun-filled getaway or a place to host your next business event we have a package to meet your needs. Click to experience all that InterContinental has to offer.
El Caribeño invites you outside to dine under the shade of an oversized beachfront palapa. A lavish buffet is prepared at breakfast, and international specialties are served à la carte for lunch and dinner. The menu offers a tempting selection of traditional Mexican and regional items along with mahi mahi and other fresh seafood dishes simply too good to pass up. Music by a live band mixes with the sound of the surf to create an “only in Cozumel” dining experience.

You’ll never have to move from your beach chair to enjoy tropical cocktails and snacks from Caña Brava Bar & Grill. Located right on the sand, this casual restaurant serves Mexican appetisers such as ceviche and nachos, fruit or shrimp salads, and for heartier appetites, a selection of fajitas, burgers and sandwiches. El Arcoiris (The Rainbow), a smooth blend of amaretto, vodka, orange juice and Blue Curaçao topped with grenadine, is a popular drink choice.

Mandara Spa, a boutique spa experience offering unique therapeutic and revitalizing treatments. Signature treatments incorporate indigenous fruits, plants, herbs and other natural elements, using ancient Mayan traditional techniques.
 More information at: http://www.hotelscombined.com/?a_aid=19134

 

Honolulu Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa - Hawaii

The Island of Oahu is Hawaii all on one island and truly is the heart of Hawaii. Oahu is home to Hawaii's State Capital, Honolulu, and often nicknamed "The Gathering Place", attracting visitors from around the world to enjoy the unique culture, natural beauty and Aloha Spirit. Discover the many sides of Oahu. Explore the lush, Windward Coast or take a beautiful, scenic drive to the legendary North Shore. Indulge in great shopping and dining in Waikiki and immerse yourself in the cool arts and culture scene in Hip and Historic Honolulu.

Oahu is rich in culture and history with traditions that are alive. The warmth of her people, their traditions and a unique blend of cultures has created a place like nowhere else. Simply stated, Oahu has more to see, do and experience. Imagine your paradise and you'll discover it's all on the Island of Oahu, the Heart of Hawaii.

Positioned across from the breakwater at Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, Hawaii, the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Resort & Spa stands one block from the International Market Place. This property is located two blocks from the Waikiki Aquarium and five blocks from Kapiolani Park.

A three story atrium boasts cascading waterfalls and tropical foliage, plus more than 60 oceanfront shops and restaurants. Dining options include Ciao Mein that specializes in both Chinese and Italian fare. Hyatt on the Beach offers sandwiches, snacks and shaved ice. Seafood, native specialties and kiawe wood grilled steaks are served by candlelight at The Colony. The Terrace Grill overlooks Waikiki Beach and serves buffet style breakfasts.

Area Attractions: Ala Moana Shopping Center 1 1/2 Miles Aloha Stadium 35 Minutes Aloha Tower 5 Miles Beach Across Street Bishop Museum 6 Miles Diamond Head Crater 30 Min Walk Dole Pineapple Cannery 6 Miles Downtown Honolulu 5 Miles Foster Botanical Gardens

Room Amenities: Coffee Team maker, In-house dining, In-house Bar, Data ports available, RoomMiniBar, Hair Dryer. Hotel Amenities: Fitness Facility, Children Allowed, Business Center, Car Rental, Family Rooms

Get more information at: Honolulu Hyatt Regency

Scuba Diving: Aqaba - Jordan

Try something new for 2010 - Learn to Dive. it's never been easier. With PADI online courses. Sign up with Seastar then complete the fun of the practical dives in Aqaba. Or if you are already a diver, extend your knowledge with extra courses.

Recreational Scuba Diving and Diving Courses. These are available to any person who is fit from 10 yrs old to...... there is no maximum age!!.

PADI E-Learning: Open Water through to Advanced Open Water. Theory is studied on line at your own leisure. In resort just the fun of the dives

Snorkelling is available to any persons who can swim and feel confident in the water. If not so confident we can offer a guide for an additional charge.

Bus departs from Aqaba town at 09.00 am. collecting you from your hotel. We also collect from Tala Bay Hotels at 09.30 am

First dive activity departs from the Dive Centre at approx 10 am.

The 2nd dive at 14.00-14.30. Return to Aqaba town at approx 5 pm

Between dives you can relax in the spacious area of Club Murjan around the pool or the terraces, have a bite to eat from the restaurant or swim in the sea, snorkel or even take an extra Lunchtime dive. Or just relax and soak up the warm sun..

Meals are available at Club Murjan, where Seastar is based. For the evening, Aqaba has a range of local restaurants from budget to 5* fine dining.

Rates & Availability

Please check for our best rates at the time. We can offer special rates in hotels from budget hotels to 5* Deluxe.

Through our partner agency- Above and Below Adventures we can offer full service of Hotel reservations throughout Jordan

Car and Mini Van rental (self drive or chauffeur driven) 2008/2009 models

Excursions throughout Jordan: Petra, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea.

Go for more information:

	Scuba Diving has never been easier Try something new for 2010 - Learn to Dive. it's never been easier. Click For Details & Pictures