Arusha is the safari capital of east Africa, and is the first stop on the northern safari circuit. There are two types of visitors to Arusha, those that are going on safari, and those that are just coming back. Take some time to explore the town itself however, or you’ll be missing out on a great sense of what modern Africa is all about.

Nestled snuggly in the foothills of Mount Meru, Arusha is actually an old German garrison town. With some of Africa’s most famous national parks and landmarks  surrounding Arusha, it’s dry, mild climate, and multicultural diversity, it’s easy to see why so many visit this wonderful town each year. When in Arusha here are some thing to do that are not to be missed:

ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK

It might not be Tanzania’s largest park (and is, in fact, the smallest) but what it lacks in size Arusha National Park makes up for in beauty and diversity. The Ngurdoto Crater is one of its main features, and it is surrounded by forest, while its floor is swamp-like.

Head west of the crater and you will find Serengeti Ndogo, a large area of grassland and the only place within Arusha National Park to see herds of Burchell’s zebras.

The Momela Lakes are shallow and alkaline, which attracts scores of wading birds, like flamingos. Each lake is fed by a different underground stream, and because of this they each have a different mineral content. Mineral content determines the type of algae growth in each lake, and therefore, each lake is a different color.

There is an abundance of wildlife in the park including waterbucks, reedbucks, hippos, buffalos, giraffes, elephants, hyenas and more; there are no lions or rhinos in the park.

THE ARUSHA MARKET

You really can buy almost anything at the Arusha markets, from fresh fruits and vegetables to local crafts and everything in between. Prices are reasonable as long as you avoid the touristy kiosks. Textiles, jewelry, carvings, local food and native art are great buys, although it’s worth a trip just to enjoy the frenetic atmosphere, and to people watch.

Arusha is a jumping point for visitors going on safari. While no trip to the area is complete without venturing out on safari, it would be a shame to not take a few days to enjoy all that the town of Arusha has to offer.

Hanoi is a perfect blend of old and new Asia. Its architecture is an eclectic mix of Russian, French and Chinese influences and is truly a sight to behold. Hanoi’s residents are a proud lot and they treat their tourists well.

A trip to this 1000 year old city is a trip to one of the most ancient capitals in the world. Some believe it to be the most beautiful city in all of Asia and there is much to do and see.

HANOI OPERA HOUSE

The Hanoi Opera House is one of Hanoi’s most famous cultural and architectural monuments. It took ten years to build, from 1901-1911 and was modeled after the Palais Garnier, one of Paris’ two famous opera houses. The Hanoi Opera House is host to many different events, including art shows, concerts, dance performances and is where the Vietnamese Orchestra performs on a regular basis.

HANOI WATER PUPPET THEATER

Water puppetry is a folk art that dates back to the 11^th century. Puppets are made of lacquered, water tight wood, and are controlled by an apparatus hidden under the water that is controlled by puppeteers. Water puppetry is a popular form of entertainment, and the shows give an interesting look in to the daily life of Vietnamese farmers, communal entertainment, or historical legends.

VIETNAM WAR MEMORIAL

The memorial, which was erected in 1993, commemorates the lives of men and women who sacrificed themselves for their nation’s independence and freedom. It is situated in an area of trees, yards and ponds by design, as it was meant to be in harmony with the land, sky, air and water.

BAT TRANG PORCELAIN AND POTTERY VILLAGE

20 minutes or so outside of Hanoi you will find this wonderful village rich in clay, where they have taken advantage of this fact to create fine ceramics. Export of this pottery was not made possible until 1986, but the world now knows of their high quality products. Visit the market where you can make your own pottery, or visit the shops and pick up some pieces to take home.

NGOC SON TEMPLE

This is arguably one of the most visited temples in Hanoi, across the scarlet bridge over Lake Hoan Kiem. It is surrounded by park land and is an ideal break from the fast paced city.

A visit to Hanoi, Vietnam is a trip worth making, with a plethora if things to do, see and experience.

Marrakech is easy to love, but hard to describe. It is a curious mix of old world and new, all at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, the highest mountain barrier in North Africa. A trip to Marrakech will leave you dizzy, and breathless, and longing to return. While under its spell, be sure to see:

MAJORELLE GARDENS

You will at some point in time need a break from the noise, crowds and continual sensual assault that is the city of Marrakech. Marjorelle Gardens is the ideal retreat as they are filled with rare plants, colors like you’ve never seen, and best of all, are amazingly peaceful. They were originally designed by the French painter Jacques Majorelle, and in 1980 Pierre Berge and Yves St. Laurent purchased the gardens and painstakingly restored them. They are open each day, and though you can catch breakfast if you arrive early enough, they do close for lunch each day.

THE MEDINA

The Medina is the old part of Marrakech and is an experience all on its own.  It is walled, and stepping through is like taking a journey back in time, where life continues as if time has stood still. Streets full of donkeys, mopeds, shoppers, tourists and children going to or returning from school, are alive with noise, smells and voices. The Djemma el Fna is at the heart, and is the main square. Here each evening, hundreds upon hundreds of stalls are set up to bring you inexpensive and delicious fresh food. There are snake charmers, story tellers and fortune tellers to amuse you all through the night, and in to the early morning hours.

EL BAHIA PALACE

This palace was originally built as a harem’s residence and is now open to the public. It is a perfect example of Moroccan architecture with its arches, beautiful light and amazing engravings.

SAADIAN TOMBS

These tombs were originally sealed, until they were rediscovered in 1917 during a French aerial survey, when a passageway was then built from the side of the Kasbah mosque. There are two main mausoleums to view, with 66 tombs within, and another 100 outside in the gardens. The tombs are heavily decorated with colorful tiles, elaborate carvings and Arabic script.

A visit to Marrakech, Morocco is a visit to one of North Africa’s brightest spots. A city that thrives on action and entertainment, Marrakech will not disappoint you.

The city of Hanover, Germany is the capital city of the state of Lower Saxony, Germany. Hanover plays constant host to any number of festivals and fairs, in addition to holding regional importance because of its universities, medical school and international airport.

Much of the city of Hanover was destroyed by Allied bombing in World War II, so there is not much of the original history left to see and explore. The city gained international exposure after hosting Expo in 2000 and now enjoys a steady stream of tourists all year round. There is much to see and do in Hanover including:

HERRENHAUSEN GARDENS

Sophia, Princess Palatine of the Rhine created these magnificent gardens during her reign from 1692 to 1714. There is the Great Garden, which features richly ornamented beds, water features and the Great Fountain. In the summer the Great Garden is host to the Herrenhausen Festival Weeks which showcases concerts and performances as well as the annual International Fireworks Competition. Check out the Little Festival in the Great Garden where mimes, dancers and musicians turn the gardens in to a huge open air concert.

There is also the adjacent George Garden which is an English landscape garden.

MASCHSEE LAKE

This is an artificial lake that was created between 1934-36, in the flood meadows around the River Leine. It is an extremely popular spot, not only for water lovers who like to sail, swim, windsurf or row, but the roughly 6km of pathways lining the banks are a great spot for running, cycling, or rollerblading. In the summer, catch the Maschsee Lake Festival and enjoy culinary arts, performers, music and fireworks.

THE RED THREAD

For a more do-it-yourself tour of Hanover, follow the Red Thread. A 4200 meter long red line is painted on the pavement and winds through the inner city, linking up 36 major attractions. You can pick up a brochure that describes what you are seeing along the way, and read up on a bit of the city’s history while you’re at it.

There is much more to do and see while visiting Hanover, and it is a fabulous place to travel with children. There is a great zoo, museums, theme parks and plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy no matter what time of year you decide to visit. World class accommodations and restaurants will leave you wanting for nothing, and longing to return.

New York State has a lot to be proud of. Four of the nation’s Presidents were born here including Martin Van Buren, Millard Fillmore, Theodore Roosevelt, and Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Its capital is Albany, but for most there is a city they would rather see, and that is New York City.

You will be hard pressed to run out of things to do in New York City, and there are some things to do that are not to be missed while you’re there.

THE EMPIRE STATE BUILDING

As clichéd as it may be, there really are some fantastic reasons to visit this iconic building. For one, you can’t get a better view of the city. 1,050 feet above the city is where your elevator ride will take you,until you reach the 86^th floor, home of the observation deck. Here you have a 360 degree unobstructed view of all that is New York City.

TIMES SQUARE

This visually overwhelming section of Manhattan is something everyone should experience. Famous for so many things Times Square is a vibrant mix of massive billboards, Broadway shows, art and jewelry vendors on the street, food, food and more food, and of course, shopping. There is literally something to see and do in Times Square 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year.

CENTRAL PARK

You can’t possibly come to New York and not visit Central Park. It’s more than 800 acres will beckon you, whether it’s to enjoy a touristy carriage ride through its streets, take a visit to the Central Park Zoo, ride the famous Memorial Carousel, ice skate on the Wollman Rink, or just walk and enjoy the lush green spaces before you, Central Park is a must see on any visitors list.

THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF MODERN ART

There are more than two million works of art under the roof of the Met, and you can’t see them all in one day. This museum is one of the largest and most comprehensive art museums in the world and no visit to New York is complete without setting time aside to visit.

A trip to the state of New York is well worth your time and money. Aside from New York City there is a host of other tourist destinations such as Niagra Falls, the Adirondacks, the Catskills, and of course the wonderful capital of Albany. New York has something for the entire family and is a world famous destination.

The region of Yorkshire is grand, with a population close to 5 million and an area spanning over 3.5 million acres. It’s not hard to imagine then that a visit to Yorkshire would be an adventure. No matter what you like to do while on holiday, Yorkshire with its many varied regions and landscapes will have something to offer you whether it’s the scenery, people, the cottages in York or the always popular grassington cottages.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

Why stay inside when there is so much to do outside?

1. Ride the Waves – Surfing is popular on the coast and there are several great surf beaches for you to explore. If you are a beginner fall may be the best time to try your hand as the waves may be easier to handle, the beaches are quieter, and the water is warmer than in winter. Choose from several different beaches, and take some lessons until you get the hang of it.
2. Canoe or Kayak? – Take your pick! There are some fabulous lakes in Yorkshire with everything from fast rapids to slow and easy ripples. Rentals and instruction are plentiful and you are guaranteed to see some amazing scenery along the way.
3. Rock it! – Rock sports are plentiful for the outdoor enthusiast who can choose from rock climbing, caving, indoor climbing and the high wire. Whether you are a beginner or an expert there is a rock sport at every level.
4. Spin Your Wheels – If you have a love of biking you have come to the right place. Yorkshire provides everything from ready-made beginner trails to more challenging off road adventures. There are miles and miles of trails to explore, and an unlimited amount of untouched terrain to keep you on the edge of your seat.
5. Move Your Feet – Trails, walking festivals, half marathons and mountain climbing are just some of the ways to get your feet moving while visiting Yorkshire.

GARDENS

1. Yorkshire Lavender – This 60 acre wonderland is a feast for the eyes and the senses. There are literally hundreds of types of lavender and other herbs for you to enjoy as well as purchase. The grounds are beautifully laid out and there are a large number of gardens and a sculpture park to entice you.
2. The Forbidden Corner – Dubbed “The Strangest Place in the World” the Forbidden Corner tries hard to live up to its name. Surprises await you at every turn in this four acre park that will challenge and delight every one of its visitors.
3. Thorp Perrow Arboretum – It is hard to believe that just one man planned and created this 85 acre masterpiece. Spend the day here exploring and see some of the rarest not to mention largest shrubs and trees around England.

GOLF

There is a large selection of golf courses to choose from in Yorkshire, and there are three which have hosted the world famous Ryder cup. There are close to 200 courses in all, so no matter which region you are exploring, there is a course or two waiting for you.

Yorkshire, England has something to offer year round, and is a fantastic destination for the entire family.

Whether you are travelling near to home or across the globe, travel insurance is always a wise purchase. It’s one of those things that you buy hoping you’ll never have to use, but in the event of a mishap while you’re away you’ll be glad you did. Here are some of the many benefits, and types, of worldwide travel insurance.

CANCELLATION INSURANCE

There are exemptions as to what qualifies as a valid reason for cancellation of your trip. You can’t, for example, just decide you don’t want to go and get a full refund. Read you policy carefully and understand it well before you buy. A typical cancellation policy benefits you if there was an emergency with your property, such as a flood or fire. Or if you, or a member of your immediate family fall ill and it conflicts with your departure. Payout amounts will vary from policy to policy as well, from 50% refund up to 100% so shop around before you sign on the dotted line. This is a very useful feature of cheap holiday insurance.

MEDICAL ASSISTANCE IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY

If anyone on the policy requires medical transport such as medivac or ambulance for a medical emergency, the policy would cover all or part of this cost. This could also cover transportation back home, or in the event of a death, transportation of the remains.

MEDICAL TREATMENT – URGENT OR EMERGENCY

This coverage may be denied, or the policy may cost more if there is a pre-existing condition with one of more of the members on the policy. Failing to reveal a pre-existing condition could render the policy null and void. Such a condition might be diabetes, recent surgery, a recent illness, stroke, or disease or a condition where a new medication has been in place for less than 3 months, such as high blood pressure. Again, check the policy carefully, read the fine print, and see what is and what isn’t covered, as they vary.

BAGGAGE INSURANCE

In the event that your luggage is lost or stolen, your policy may cover you above and beyond what the airline might give you as compensation. Insurance such as this would be especially important if you intend to be travelling with any expensive items such as jewelry or electronics.

LIABILITY

This will cover you in the event that you or another policy holder injures another party or their property while away. This is usually separate from personal liability you would purchase for a rental car. Be sure to understand exactly what you will be covered for.

MISSED CONNECTION OR DEPARTURE

If you will be on a trip with several legs, where you will be changing planes on several occasions this may be a good investment. In the event that you miss one of your flights, or connecting flights, the insurance may cover you for the difference of a new flight.

Travel insurance is very inexpensive compared to what an incident away from home may cost you. Read your policy carefully and ask the agent to go over it all with you in detail to answer any questions you may have.

The United Kingdom covers a large area encompassing Great Britain as well as Northern Ireland. With so much land to cover allow yourself plenty of time to explore on your visit to the UK. And in particular be sure to spare time to see London and Dublin.

LONDON

Where to begin? There are so many landmarks in and around London it can be rather dizzying to think of them all. Here are three to get you started. Besides things to do there are also countless options for holiday apartments in London.

1. Tower of London – There is a reason why so many tourists visit the Tower of London each year. Built around 1080 AD, the Tower has since been used as a prison, a palace and a fortress. It is currently home to a vast collection of Crown Jewels, over 23,000 to be exact. Learn about the history of the Tower, who lived here, and who died here within these awe inspiring buildings.
2. Tate Modern – View an amazing collection of art dating back to 1500 AD up to current day Britain. This world famous gallery offers you many ways to explore it and many things to do. There are interactive modules, mobile apps, and guided tours to keep you busy as well.
3. London Eye – You won’t get a better bird’s eye view of London anywhere else. The London Eye transports visitors daily around its 443 ft tall wheel, where, on a clear day you may be able to see up to 25 miles in the distance.

DUBLIN

Dublin is the capital city of Ireland and as such is loaded with things to do, places to go and adventures to be had. Let’s look at a few of the top attractions in Dublin. Whether you’re looking for hotels, hostels or apartments in Dublin, there is plenty of choice.

1. National Museum of Ireland – There are three separate locations in Dublin housing three separate museums. The first is Archaeology, the second is Decorative Arts and History and the third is Natural History. Each is unique and each has an extensive amount of information for you to learn about and exhibits to study.
2. Kilmainham Jail – Built in 1796 this jail has been home to prisoners as young as seven years old and is now one of the largest jails in Europe that sits empty. Conditions in the jail were horrible, with children, women and men all held together within a cell. 1924 saw the last of its use as a jail and it now serves as a museum and gallery with guided tours available for the public.
3. Guinness Storehouse – No trip to Dublin is complete without a visit to the home of Guinness. Once inside the facility you will get to know firsthand what it feels like to be at the bottom of a pint glass; the world’s largest as a matter of fact. Learn all about the brewing process, pour your own pint, and try a bowl of Guinness stew before ending your visit in the Gravity Bar.

Plan to give yourself enough time to explore all that the United Kingdom has to offer you on your next vacation:  you won’t want to miss a thing.

Zanzibar itself is an archipelago, just off the coast of Tanzania. Historic Stone Town is Zanzibar’s capital city, and is of historical importance in East Africa. Stone Town was recently named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

One of the reasons Stone Town received this distinction is because of its history of intense seaborne trading activity between Asia and Africa; it was once one of the most important trading areas in the Indian Ocean. Its ties regarding the suppression of slavery are of historic importance as well.

Visiting Stone Town, Zanzibar is sure to delight anyone. It has been described by many as a rare jewel, and it is easy to see why. While in Stone Town here are a few things you don’t want to miss:

THE PALACE MUSEUM

The palace, originally called the “Sultan’s Palace” was constructed in the 1890’s for members of the Sultan’s family. 1911 saw it become the official residence of the Sultan of Zanzibar, but due to the revolution in 1964, it was renamed “The People’s Palace”. In the early 90’s it was turned in to a museum and is dedicated to the history of Zanzibar’s Sultans. On your visit you will be able to view much of the Sultans furniture and other possessions.

THE HOUSE OF WONDERS

Referred to as Beit el Ajaib, or House of Wonders, by the locals this building was truly a wonder at the time it was erected. This large, multi-storied, square building was the first in Zanzibar to have electric light and an electric lift. It is surrounded by pillars and balconies and has a large clock tower on top. It is truly a sight to see, and is still one of the largest buildings in Zanzibar today.

THE ARAB FORT

Located next to the House of Wonders, this fort is over 300 years old and is now home to shops and an open air theatre.

LIVINGSTONE’S HOUSE

Stop by the old residence of Dr. David Livingstone, which was built in 1860. Originally built for the Sultan Majid, it became first a starting point for many missionaries and explorers, and then a home for Dr. Livingstone where he lived before starting off on his final journey to the mainland interior.

Stone Town, Zanzibar is a unique town, with an eclectic mixture of bazaars, mosques, grand Arab mansions and run down houses, that is a true highlight of any trip to Africa.

Hexham, England is a diverse town in the heart of the Tyne Valley. It is rich in history, with its two medieval towers and the Hexham Abbey which dates back to 675 AD, but is also a modern day market town in addition to being home to a busy arts scene. Hexham really does offer something to everyone who passes through. Be sure to take in the following sights on your next visit.

HEXHAM ABBEY

In the center of this bustling town lies Hexham Abbey. It is one of Britains longest surviving Christian establishments still in existence today. Though it may have seen a few changes through the years, first becoming a Benedictine Abbey, and then the Parish Church and an Augustinian Priory, it has been used as a house of worship dating back to 674 AD. It holds many treasures including the Night Stair – one of just a few remaining staircases from medieval times that is still used today. Daily worship is offered and guided tours are available. There are also no shortage of choices for Hexham accommodation.

HEXHAM OLD GAOL

The Old Gaol is located in the center of the town of Hexham, and served as a prison for about 500 years. Built between 1330 and 1333, its thick stone walls did well in keeping  its prisoners locked within. It is the oldest purpose built prison in England and the gaoler today will be more than happy to walk you through and tell you all about it. There are interactive displays on archaeology, costumes, armor and textiles to keep you entertained, and when you’re done, take the glass elevator down to the dungeon and see where the prisoners spent their days.

QUEEN’S HALL

The Queen’s Hall is a multipurpose facility that serves as an exhibition gallery, library, theatre and arts centre. Take in some fine theatre, a comedy, a family show or view any of the mind provoking exhibitions on display.

HOUSESTEAD’S ROMAN FORT

Housestead’s is the most complete roman fort in Britain. Step back in time while you wander the grounds imaging life as it was for the more than 800 roman soldiers who resided there. There are incredible views of the Tyne Valley and borders of Scotland from the top of Hadrian’s Wall as well. There are plenty of great options for holiday cottages Scottish border area.

CHESTERS ROMAN FORT CILURNUM

Chesters is the best preserved Roman fort in Britain. As the owner of Chesters house, Nathaniel Clayton went to great lengths to fill in what remained of the fort to better his landscaping and create a pleasing gradient towards the river Tyne. Fortunately his son undid all his fathers’ work and fully excavated the area, exposing the fort.  There are remains of a bridge from Chesters over the River Tyne, suggesting it was a very important fort. Not much is known about the battles that may have been carried forth from Chesters, but we are still given a glimpse in to the battlements that once stood on these grounds.

Hexham, England is a wonderful tourist destination offering plenty to do for the entire family.