Puerto Rico - The Rich Port

          What do you think about when you think of Puerto Rico? Most people just think about the little island below us that is kind of a part of the United States. What most people don’t think about is its abundance of history, culture, and architecture.

Puerto Rico is currently a territory of the United States. The Spanish settlers names the island Puerto Rico because it means “rich port.” One of the most popular cities, and the capital of Puerto Rico is San Juan. San Juan was the pit stop for military ships coming from Spain to the Americas. Because San Juan was such a rich port, it was subject to foreign attacks, which led to the building of Fort San Felipe del Morro, or El Morro. This fort is still standing today and is one of the most popular attractions in San Juan.

El Morro

San Juan lies in the Atlantic Ocean below the United States and has a warm, beautiful climate most of the year. This warm climate allows for high tourism at all times of the year.

San Juan coastline

Old San Juan is located on a small island that connects to the mainland by bridge. This area is home to the historic aspects of Puerto Rico and San Juan. Most of the building here were built in the 1600’s and 1700’s and is a huge attraction for tourists. Cruise ship ports are also scattered around this area, as San Juan is a large port of call for many cruise lines.

Old San Juan

Other areas of interest in San Juan include Isla Verde and Condado. Isla Verde is along the Atlantic Ocean and is the spot for beach activity in the area. It also has numerous spots for shopping, nightlife, casinos, and restaurants. Condado is another area settled next to Old San Juan along the Atlantic Ocean. This area is more upper class than some others and is filled with luxurious hotels and homes. Nightclubs, restaurants, convention centers, and museums are all found in this busy area.

Bacardi Rum Factory

A must-see attraction in the San Juan area is the Bacardi Rum factory. Whether you are a drinker or not, this attraction is definitely interesting. And hey, the free drinks given away during the tour aren’t too bad either!! The tour goes through the history of the founders, and how the rum is made. You get the chance to sample some items and even buy some bottle to take back with you for an inexpensive fee! Make sure to check this attraction out if you’re ever in the area!

You can’t go wrong in San Juan, whether you have a detailed itinerary or just want to wander around the streets. This island is a great place to go for vacations, holidays, celebrations, or just because! Don’t just think of Puerto Rico as that little island that is kind of related to the United States anymore!

Your Big Fat Greek Vacation

       One of the most amazing Greek islands, Santorini, is not just spectacular for its scenery, but because it sits on top of a volcano! This island is located in the Aegean Sea, southeast from the Greek mainland. Santorini is the result of numerous volcanic eruptions, which have destroyed and changed the island into what it is today. The city is settled on a caldera, which is basically like a huge crater in the earth. The island is covered steep cliffs and large lagoon areas. These physical characteristics help make-up the unique beauty of this astounding Greek island.

Santorini - Greece

     Santorini was on of the largest volcanic eruptions ever. The island now sits on  what used to be the cone of the massive volcano. Throughout the island, different layers of lava rock are exposed, which results in the bright colors seen in the ground and sand. On these Greek beaches you will find red, black, pink, or white sand depending on the layer of lava rock exposed.

Red Sand Beach of Santorini

       Tourism has been expanding greatly in the recent decades. It is now one of their largest industries and accounts for the amount of wealth and increase in population. Ferries, boats, and cruise ships are some of the forms of transportation to reach this island. There is also an airport on the actual island with numerous flights departing and arriving each day. Santorini is home to unique agriculture and Greek wine. The island is home to some of the most breath taking sunsets on the globe.

Cliffs of Santorini

       Santorini is divided into a number of different villages that contain their own unique characteristics. Some villages attract tourists because of their beautiful black and red sand beaches, while others contain the history and ruins of past volcanic eruptions. Anywhere on this island you can find a great view, lots of history, and a vacation you will never forget!

The Sinking City

         It's a city that is sinking and is built completely on water, with some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe - Venice, Italy. Venice is located in northern Italy and is a city unlike any other. Along the tight waterways you will find an abundance of Italian history and an area booming of tourism. Venice is divided into six different areas called sestieres. Each of these districts has their own unique attractions that you can't miss.

       How exactly is this city floating on water? Venice was originally settled on small islands in a lagoon. After years of flooding, these islands no longer existed. The foundations of Venice are built on layers upon layers of wood, stone, mud, and sand and therefore held up for hundreds of years.  Venice has been subject to many large floods, some time more than 100 floods a year. In order to help keep the city safe from flooding many types of gates and other devices have been and are still being built.

The city on water - Venice, Italy

Because the city is completely on water, the only way to get around is by boat. One of the famous trademarks of Venice are it's Gondola rides.  A gondola is a flat- bottomed boat that is navigated by a gondolier through the narrow canals of the city.  For many years, these boats were the only way of getting around in the city, and are still available for tourists looking for that romantic one of a kind expereince.  The gondola rides are a must when visiting this wonderful city.

Gondola Ride through Venice



      Venice has been the location for many recent films, books, and plays. The gothic style buildings allow for a unique setting for all of these works of art. The city is very popular for its fashion, shopping, and art. Another trademark of this city is the Venetian or Murano glass. In many areas of the city you can find glass- blowing demonstrations and shops in which you can buy these extraordinary pieces.

      Probably one of the most famous areas in Venice is the Piazza San Marco, also known as St. Marks Plazza.  This Plaza is the location of the famous clock tower, and the home of the popular pigeons. It is also adjacent to the popular Doges's Palace. The plaza is normally an area filled with tourists and photographers, but holdes some of the best Venietian history and attractions.

Piazza San Marco

     Some other things you have to check out when in venice : The Grand Canal, Rialto, The Bell Tower, Clock Tower, St. Mark's Basilica, Campanile, The Gallerie dell'Accademia, and Teatro La Fenice.

Venice, Italy

If you get the chance to visit Italy or anywhere in Europe, don't miss out on the astonishing city sitting on water, Venice!!

Sail Beyond All Records

        Royal Carribean's newest and largest ship, Oasis of the Seas, sailed past all other crusie ship records. The Oasis of the Seas is currently the world's largest crusie ship to ever sail the high seas. The ship sails from Fort Lauderdale, Fl  going to many ports of call in the Caribbean. At 1,187 feet long and 16 passenger decks high, this ship is a small city on the sea. Over 2,700 guest staterooms fill the ship, allowing for more than 6,000 guests on each voyage. With amentities for every guest, including familes, couples, singles, and friends, Royal Caribbean has hit this one straight out of the park(or should we say, ocean?).

Royal Caribbean's - Oasis of the Seas

     This ship contains all the features of a general cruise ship, including 4 pools, 10 whirlpools, a spa, fitness center, aqua park, 2 Flow Riders, numerous theaters, bars, and restaurants, conference centers, rock climbing wall,  an ice rink, a youth and teen zone, a zip line, and a number of various other activities and amenities.  Of course this ship wasn't going to settle for a general, overdone theme. Instead they chose their ship to mimic New York City's Central Park! 

Oasis of the Seas- Central Park

     Another reason this monster on the seas stands out is its idea of entertainment. The ship has the normal entertainment theater and few small theaters and comedy clubs, but it also has the one of a kind - Aqua Theater. This theater is an open theater on the end of the ship that allows spectacular water shows, aerial acrobatics, breath taking views, and out of this world entertainment. This theater isn't just home to the generic cruise ship entertainment, but is home to the Blue Man Group, Cirque de Soleil, and other concerts and shows known around the world. The entertainment on this ship is unlike any other venue in the world.

Oasis of the Seas - Aqua Theater 

      Whether you are a first time crusier or an experienced one, this ship is one that you have to experience. The Oasis's sister ship, Allure of the Seas, is scheduled to sail it's first voyage in December, 2010. Go to RoyalCaribbean.com to book your voyage!

Check out this quick video clip about the Oasis of the Seas!

If traveling is your hobby - check out Abu Dhabi!!

       What comes to mind when you think of the world's most popular cities?.... New York City? Sydney? San Francisco? Paris? London? - Most people think of these as some of the best tourist areas in the world, but what about the other cities that aren't so popular? 

       It's the second largest city in the world, and the one that is a secret to many- Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi is located on an island in the Persian Gulf and is the capital of the United Arab Emirates. As one of the most expensive cities in the world, it is home to an abundance of financial institutions and corporate offices. Other than business, Abu Dhabi is home to some of the most impressive architecture in the world.  One of its amazing trademarks is the Emirates Palace. 

Emirates Palace Hotel

The Emirates Palace is the world’s second most expensive hotel ever built.  With its over 400 rooms and suites fully furnished with gold and marble, this hotel is beyond anything you can ever imagine. It is by far one of the world’s most luxurious hotels, and a definite must-see when in the city. And for all you Sex and the City lover’s, the palace was featured in the second movie as the destination of Samantha Jones’ public relations business trip.
          Abu Dhabi is a shopper's paradise with the large amount of shopping malls and markets found around the city. It offers some of the best restaurants that serve the native dishes, and some of the world's most famous fast food chains including McDonald's and Burger King.  This wonderful city is full of cafes, spas, entertainment, sports, hotels, museums, parks, beaches, golf courses, clubs, theaters, and other unique attractions. 
          One of the newest attractions, opening in Abu Dhabi October 28, 2010 is Ferrari World. Ferrari World is the world's first Ferrari theme park and largest indoor theme park. This attraction is home to the world's fastest roller coaster along with more than 20 other unique rides and attractions. This park will be a top destination for adrenaline seekers everywhere.         

Ferrari World

 Abu Dhabi is a one of a kind city and should not fail to make it to travelers top 10 destinations lists. The unique buildings, interesting culture, and breath taking scenery is sure to satisfy all your traveling dreams. For more pictures and information on Abu Dhabi, check out www.visitabudhabi.ae!!