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Taking a charter yacht tour while you are on holiday in the Caribbean is the best way to experience the best that the islands have to offer. From commercial tours to private charters, there is very little doubt that your Caribbean holiday will be complete without setting sail on the oceans.

There are several tour operators who specialize in creating the perfect custom tours to suit your needs. From all-inclusive exploration tours which take visitors to many of the hidden coves and bays to the exquisite location at which Pirate of the Caribbean was filmed there is sure to be a Caribbean charter which will suit all your needs.

For the avid sailor, nothing can beat the feeling of the wind as it fills the sails. For those who simply love to explore the wonders of the Caribbean, there are also tours set out in which you can swim with the world-famous turtles or take a trip to any of the popular Caribbean beach bars. There is always an opportunity to turn your dreams into everlasting memories.

There are a wide variety of yachts to choose from including sailing yachts and catamarans as well as motor yachts, power catamarans, and even luxury mega yachts. When choosing your perfect Charter Yacht it is also important to keep in mind that the yacht is nothing without picking out the best crew for your needs. See Yacht Charter Specialists  to learn more.

Professional charter concierges will know every crew member for every fleet. It is a good idea to sit down with your concierge before your holidays in order for them perfectly match your requirements to the perfect crew for your needs.

Your first options to choose from would be whether you would like a traditional sailor the more modern power yachts. If you are looking for the journey to be as important as the actual destination, then it is highly recommended that you look at a sailing vessel. The slower pace will allow you see more of the scenery. If you’re looking to feel the movement of the waves, then a sailing Monohull will be perfect for your trip, but if you would like a little more space and luxury then you should opt for a sailing catamaran.

Megayachts or smaller motor yachts are for those who are looking to get more out of the islands. These super luxurious yachts have larger crews and are much more formal. Whether you chose, a modern luxury yacht or even a classically restored beauty, you are guaranteed to have five-star service. The motor yachts do, however, come standard with an associated fuel charge. Each yacht is different and it is recommended that you contact your concierge to discuss the details of the fuel charges.

It may all seem like a lot to take in but making sure you completely understand all the aspects of your Caribbean holiday is vital. Trained agents are available to assist you at every corner, to make sure that your next Caribbean holiday is one to remember.

I love everything about Greece. From the cerulean blue sea, the whitewashed buildings that cling to the cliffsides, the turquoise window boxes and pink geraniums, and the people, oh, those warm, vibrant, handsome people. Do they ever sleep?

Certainly not at night! Theyre too busy singing and dancing in the tavernas until the suns rays glint through the grape-vined trellises.

Your introduction to Greece will probably be through the stunning new Athens airport, completed in time for the 2004 Olympics. The highways into the city are broad and handsome, and the 45-minute taxi ride is an exciting introduction to this ancient city.

Towering above, and visible from all angles is the Acropolis with the recently revitalised Parthenon. Your hotel choice includes dazzling new hotels on the entry to the city centre, or charming ancient hotels nestled in the Plaka district at the foot of the Acropolis or others around the two main squares, Syntagma or Omonia. Your budget will govern your choice.
The highlights of this capital city (pop. 3,103,000) are, of course, the Acropolis, the Olympic Stadium, the Archeological Museum and the Parliament with the changing of the Evzone guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Fun-seekers will head for the Plaka with its ubiquitous souvenir shops, quaint little churches, glittering gold jewellery shops, and tavernas with bearded bouzouki players entertaining until the wee small hours.

Shoppers will seek out Monastiraki Square and the Flea market on Pandrossou Street, while a restful afternoon can be spent in the National Garden with it swan lakes and duck ponds and terrace cafes with live orchestras.

Nighttime entertainment on a cultural level includes the Dora Stratou Dance Theatre, usually packaged with the Sound and Light Show at the Acropolis. Folk dances from villages throughout Greece are presented in costume.

If youre in Athens in the summertime, nothing could be more exciting than to hear a concert at the Herod Atticus Theater on the south slope of the Acropolis. Recent performers have included the popular Greek performer, Yanni, as well as Andrea Bocelli and opera highlights with Jessye Norman.

Of course, Athens is just the gateway to the rest of the Greek mainland and Piraeus with its daily departure of dozens of cruise ships to the Greek Islands. As Greek yacht charter specialists, we lead a tour of Athens, from the Sound and Light show at the Acropolis to bouzouki players in the Plaka’s tavernas.

Turkey, being the gateway to Europe and Asia, played a huge role in the trading of goods for many years prior to the growth of modern travel. Back then, places like The Spice Market in Istanbul were where all the action was. This is where the spices from Asia were traded for items from Europe. If you’re heading to Istanbul for a holiday, this is one of the city’s must see tourist attractions.

This particular market is the second largest roofed bazaar in Turkey but it is most likely the biggest spice market in the whole world. This is where traders from all over, even from far away countries in Europe, go to trade different spices. Unfortunately, now other products are being sold here, but it is still considered the spice capital of the country.

Roaming the shops will introduce you to spices you have never even heard of. You will see them almost flowing over the sacks where they are stored. It is these exotic spices that bring a lot of flavour to food, especially in the region. Lovers of Turkish food know that part of the allure of the cuisine is the balanced mix of spices that come together in your mouth to create that wonderful taste.

The biggest spice market in Istanbul is the perfect destination for those who love food, and you might even run away with a pack or two of spices. Here you can see the product, smell, and touch it. You are making history, going there like people have done for the past 350 years.

In its history, the market has not changed much, selling spices and other products that came from all sides of the world. What surprises many visitors is the fact that the sellers and the items are not all from Turkey. Given its role as a place to trade goods, the spice market was opened for exactly this purpose. The advantage is, you will find almost every spice in the world and you can easily fill your suitcase to bring at home. Moreover, you get to bring home stuff from everywhere without having to fly there. So if you ever wanted Russian caviar or Chinese tea, this is the place for you to go.

To visit the spice market is not that difficult because it is in Istanbul. Moreover, most tours will get you there, or you can arrange your own rental car, which is better for families or bigger groups.

It is important to have local currency when you are coming over, though Euros or dollars might be accepted, your bank might charge hidden fees. So in order to avoid being scammed, keep your card in your wallet.

Moreover, if you are visiting the spice market, opt for sellers whose products are loose and not pre-packaged. This is to be sure that they are fresh and of great quality. You can also experience the place like people back then.

The spice market in Istanbul should never be skipped during a trip to Turkey. Imagine strolling around the biggest indoor market for spices with the scents mixing in the air. Under this roof, products from all over the world can come together to shower you with their wonderful smells and tastes.

When John Denver wrote the lyrics of his hit song Take Me Home, Country Roads people who didnt have a clue about West Virginia somehow figured that the state was almost heaven. And if you follow this 3-day guide to exploring the sights and flavours of West Virginia, who knows if you might have a taste of almost heaven yourself. Time to take a road trip into new territory.

Start the journey with a sumptuous homemade breakfast at the Ledge House Bed and Breakfast at Harpers Ferry before heading out to see the historic sites of the city such as the Jefferson Rock or even John Browns Fort. If the Ledge House is packed, you can always head out to Stonehouse and make it as your starting point.

By the time youre hungry for lunch, try out the tuna nicoise salad served with tantalizing quail eggs at the Bistro 1840. Dont forget to wash the meal down with the iconic English IPA served at the Mash Brewing Company. Dont like ales? Maybe the Sour Peach Shenandoah Saison in Charles Town should quench your thirst.

In the afternoon, stop by the Bloomery Plantation Distillery before capping the day with a dinner at the Redbook Restaurant where youll be treated to a really fantastic meal. Calling it a night means heading upstairs to your room at the Hillbrook Inn & Spa.

Day 2
 
On the 2nd day, start off with a Sunday European brunch in Shepherdstown. Feast on their oysters on a half shell, an assortment of terrines and pates, and a selection of only the mouth-watering sausages and sauerkrauts you could ever imagine. Explore the old-time merchandise at OHurleys General Store before heading out for lunch.

Grab the pate du campagne at Bistro 112 for lunch and wash it off with craft beers from Town Run Community Pub. Youll love the house-made pate. At dinner, try the pappardelle with mushrooms, fontina, sage, and cream before retiring to your luxurious suite at the upscale Bavarian Inn. Alternatively, you can feast on a big slab of steak complete with gorgonzola butter before calling it a night.

West Virginia is home to the countrys very first spa town. Sample the Almost Famous Cream of Crab at Taris in Berkeley Springs. Once your tummy is filled, its time to indulge and allow yourself to be transported to other-worldly experience at the bathhouses of the Berkeley Springs State Park. Make sure to check out the very same bathtub that George Washington used 250 years ago every time he and his family head out to this scenic and idyllic town.

In the afternoon, drive up the winding hill of the city to see the famous Berkeley Castle and get ready to be mesmerized by the stunning beauty of the scenery overlooking the town. Check out the Star Theatre, too, and partake in classic hot-oil popcorn. Cap your 3-day journey with a seared rare tuna roulade prepared by Chef Damian Heath at the Lot 12 Public House.

If you can allot a week exploring the sights and flavours of West Virginia, then that would be even better. But if youre pressed for time, then this 3-day guide should help you get started.

Not a lot of people go to Turkey. In fact, Turkey can be considered as one of the underrated countries to visit since they offer so many historical and cultural sites that aren’t even talked about on travel websites. So to stay away from the norm, here’s an article about Turkey’s “Cotton Castle” called Pamukkale.

First things first, what is Pamukkale? Literally translating to “Cotton Castle”, Pamukkale is a bunch of white terraces with water spilling from their rims. It’s white because of the kind of rock that has formed from the flowing water that passes through which is called travertine.

Aside from its picturesque and unique landscape, Pamukkale is also unique in history. During the Roman Era, this place was known to be a spa to many and on top of the terraces, there was a city called Hierapolis. Hierapolis was a thriving city all throughout history until it was abandoned in 1300 AD. It has experienced many renovations over the course of its life due to natural calamities.

Not until 1300 AD did it actually become ruins. However, as the years passed, the city of Hierapolis, or at least its memory, was never lost on Turkey. The ruins were converted into a tourist spot where visitors can see an amphitheater, the Nymphaeum fountain which distributes water all over Hierapolis, and a wide expanse of how life was back in the Roman Era.

In 1988, Pamukkale was considered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Together with this title comes preservation of the place’s ruins and culture. The hotels that were built were demolished as to respect and keep the area as it is. There were also pools that were closed for public use and instead, artificial ponds were created so they will all turn their attention there. As of today, Pamukkale enjoys a good number of tourists that reach around two million every year.

So how do you go to Pamukkale?

Pamukkale is found in Denizli Province in the southwestern part of Turkey. You can easily go here by booking day trips from Aegean resorts or by simply renting a car and driving over. There are amazing sea views and coastal scenery on the Turkish coast. It’s well worth the trip. Other sea view holiday ideas can be found on this post. If you’re coming from Antalya and Marmaris, the travel time is around four hours. If you are traveling from Kusadasi, it only takes three hours. There is also public transportation available and you can take the bus from Denizli’s bus station. 

Since you will be visiting water terraces, it would be best to bring a change of clothes and wear a swimsuit before you even go to the place. This makes your trip less of a hassle. At the same time, you won’t be able to wear shoes once you walk up the formations because it’s a way to avoid erosion and making the waters dirty.

The best time to visit Pamukkale is actually when there are not many people so that you will enjoy its serenity and the waters reflections of the sky. Since the bulk of tourists go by the afternoon or at lunchtime (the long drive makes this so), it would be best for you to already stay in Pamukkale the night before and just go there in the morning. You can also go there as early as 6 am and start wading in their pool at around 8 am.

Are you thinking about visiting South Korea on your travels? Seoul is a great travel destination. There are so many fun and exciting things to do on a vacation or extended trip. If you are wanting to know more about the countrys rich culture and history, it is a must for you to explore the Changdeokgung Palace.

The Changdeokgung Palace is located in Jongnu-gu, Seoul. It is known to be one of the five grand palaces that were built by kings of the Joseon Dynasty between the times of 1392 to 1897. It is also known as the East Palace or the Prospering Virtue Palace.

It’s one of the must-see tourism attractions in this wonderful Korean city. You can stay nearby or in the centre of Seoul in fantastic hotels, which have wonderful facilities and connectivity. These travel accommodations offer a great base for sightseeing. Although there are very few self catering houses or apartments like in other popular holiday destinations around the globe. The reception staff or concierges at these hotels will recommend the Changdeokgung Palace and provide directions and tips on visiting.

The palace was burnt so many times. First was in 1592 during the Japanese invasion and was reconstructed by King Seonjo and King Gwanghaegun in 1609. The second time was in 1623 after a revolution was led by King Injo. Amidst the attacks and political revolt, the Changdeokgung Palace continued to be repaired and reconstructed maintaining its original design.

In the present day, the palace still has 13 buildings standing and 28 pavilions in the gardens, which includes the secret garden that is now called Biwon. The garden has a lotus pond, pavilion, trees, flowers and a beautiful landscape. The secret garden was forbidden and was for private use only of the king. It was originally called Geumwon (forbidden garden) and Naewon (inner garden), but it was popularly known to many as Huwon (rear garden). Even high officials were not allowed to enter the garden without permission.

The palace has the largest of all palace gates called the Donhwamun Gate. Originally built in 1412, the main palace gate is a two-story wooden structure. It is so big it sort of looks like a pavilion. In the palace you can also find one of Seouls oldest bridges, the Geumcheongyo Bridge, which was built in 1411.

The palace is home to Seouls National Treasures, such as the Injeongjeon Hall or the throne hall, Daejojeon Hall (the empress or queens room), Seonjeongjon Hall (officials hall where meetings took place), and the Nakseonjae (kings bedroom). The Huijeongdang Hall was originally the kings chambers but it was too small to host gatherings. The Juhamnu pavilion or Kujanggak was where the royal libraries stood.

Its easy to get to the Changdeokgung Palace as it has been recognized by UNESCO Committee as part of the World Cultural Heritage List in December 1997. Palace tours are closed on Mondays and tickets for the tours are limited to a hundred each tour. Fifty tickets are sold online and the remaining 50 tickets are sold on the day at the ticket office.

If you happen to be travelling with a family that has a baby, they have 8 strollers available for rental. Most of the tours are free for children aged 6 and below, people with disabilities and men of national merits. Jongno residents can take advantage of a 50% discount just as long as they are able to show an ID. They also offer interpretation services for foreigners who want to learn more of the palaces history.

The Great Wall of China is the countrys most famous tourist attractions. Its probably on the top of your itinerary on vacation in China followed by a visit to the Forbidden City. But there is an unusual tomb that many foreigners have not even heard of. Its the mausoleum of Tian Yi, an imperial court eunuch.

About Tian Yis Tomb

Thousands of eunuchs like Tian Yi served during the Ming Dynasty. Nevertheless, the Chinese Emperor Wanli rewarded him with a royal tomb for his distinguished service. Over the years, the place has been looted and forgotten. Fortunately, it has been rediscovered and serves as a window to Chinas imperial past.

Unlike other Chinese tourist spots, you wont encounter a crowd in this place. If you will come visit the place, chances are youre the only ones there. Before it was open for public viewing, the mausoleum was closed and used as a school. Tian Yi was not royalty but they surely gave him a tomb fit for one.
  
What to See

The tombs wall carvings are well-preserved and one of the wall shows various big animals carved in stone. You can see two giant statue versions of Tian Yi. One shows him as a soldier while he is dressed as a scholar in the other. You have to walk through the Divine Path gate in order to reach his final resting place.

There is also a museum that demonstrates how the ancient Chinese do castration. There is a display room there that shows four human-like statues. One of them is lying down, obviously the volunteer for the eunuch position. One of the figures is holding him down while the other one is holding a tray. The third figure is the surgeon who will cut the patients genitals. A cabinet nearby shows the grisly tool they use in the operation.

The museum also features the mummified remains of a eunuch. No one knows his name but he is probably a monk based on his appearance. The mummy was discovered in 2006 but it is highly unlikely that its Tian Yi.

Location and How to Get There

Travel information for the Eunuch Tomb and museum. It is around 20 kilometers away from Beijing. You can visit the place any day you like as long as its between 9 AM to 4:30 PM. The exact address is 80 Mishikou Street in the Shijingshan District. You can take the train but you have to get off at the Pingguoyuan station. You have to pay a small entrance fee to get in.
     
Its a tourist attraction that many would rather skip. Its not exactly a place where you bring your family especially little kids. Its not that youre messing with their impressionable minds but get ready. They will ask a lot of questions that you rather not answer. It is a reminder that once upon a time, poor boys had to undergo castration just to serve royalties. On the other hand, if youre a history buff with macabre tastes, you need to go here.