Geneva, Switzerland, Sight Seeing, Tour, Travel, Vacation Packages, Alps, Lake, Rhone, Cruises, Hotels

Jets of water shooting 140 meters high out of its eponymous lake define the city of Geneva, Switzerland, which is nestled between the Alps and the hilly terrain of the Jura mountains. Situated on the bay where the Rhone leaves Lake Geneva, the city may be small as cities go--fewer than half a million people live here--but it’s cosmopolitan and lovely.

Many major hotels and restaurants capitalize on the lake’s beauty with shorefront locations; on the opposite bank lies the Old Town, which is Geneva’s heart as well as the shopping and business quarter. Its center is the Place du Bourg-de-Four, the oldest square in the city, perhaps the most distinguishing part of the old town’s skyline is St. Peter’s Cathedral. The Old Town is eminently walkable (which is true of most Swiss cities); you’ll want to wander along quays, lakeside promenades, countless parks, lively side streets and in and out of elegant shops. You can take mouettes or water taxis across the lake or enjoy a lake cruise aboard a larger ship.

Geneva is an international city—it’s the headquarters of the Red Cross and European seat of the United Nations; the Palace of the United Nations is an important landmark. It’s also a major center for special congresses and trade fairs. It’s a major center for the watch industry, the big flower clock in the city’s English garden symbolizes that industry. It’s a cultural center, with more than 30 museums, theaters and galleries. Internationally known artists perform at the Grand Theatre and Geneva Opera House. There’s a watch museum, the International Museum of the Red Cross and the Red Crescent.

Come hungry to Geneva; it has more than a thousand restaurants. It is a bit of a jet-set destination, which means some restaurants can be prohibitively expensive, but you can always turn to Genevois cafés and inexpensive diners. French restaurants in Geneva might get the most attention, but there are many excellent Swiss restaurants, especially in the Old Town.

Geneva has excellent public transportation but is an ideal city for walking. It has a major international airport; it takes minutes to get from the airport to city center on the train. Geneva is a gateway to the Alps and ski country.

Learn more at: http://etravelcruise.com/destinations/europe/switzerland/geneva.html

For more information & booking air, hotel, car rentals, resorts, rails, cruises, tour & vacation packages, please write to: info@etravelcruise.com

.

Venice, Italy, Tourism, Vacation Packages, Travel, Tour, Cruise

As the world’s only pedestrian city, Venice, Italy, is a charming and ancient canal-based archipelago on the country’s Northeastern coast. The grand displays of city wealth are found in everything from the architecture and massive palaces, to the art museums and waterfront osteries cooking up a gourmet feast on a single burner. Old world Italy is still quite intact in Venice, but the Venetians haven’t turned a blind eye to modernity either. Their dress boutiques are filled with bohemian-chic forward fashions and galleries with blown glass and contemporary paintings. Upon first arriving, one may think that Venice was built just for them. The truth is, there is never a time of year when visitors will not share the narrow streets and sparkling canals with countless other travelers who all share the same love-at-first-sight notion as they settle into their first gondola ride.

Piazza San Marco is the city’s largest, most-visited square, and houses the Basilica di San Marco as well as the clock tower, Doge’s Palace and Procuratie Vecchie, whose ground floor is occupied by shops and cafes. Dotted with a myriad of churches and museums, such as San Giovanni e Paolo, Museo Ebraico (Jewish Museum), Galleria dell’Accademia di Venzia and the Peggy Guggenheim Museum, Venice shines as a cultural epicenter within Europe and the world. The Venice Card and the Chorus Pass are two passes that can be purchased for discounted public transport and access to many churches and museums.

To find some local music coming from venues other than cheerful gondoliers, check out Teatro La Fenice for epic opera, Al Vapore for jazz and blues, Terrazzamare by the beach or Laboratorio Occupato Morion for local Veneto bands in a dive bar setting. Shopping is also plentiful in Venice. The narrow streets and alleyways are peppered with artisan shops selling carnival masks, Murano glass and marbled paper. Designer shops (like everywhere in Italy) are plentiful in areas around St. Mark’s Square and Calle della Mondola.

In Venice, you can have a variety of culinary experiences. There’s the quintessential candlelit dinner by the canal, the hole-in-the-wall joint serving fresh handmade pasta, the sidewalk café serving pizza or the upscale restaurant that prepares local specialties such as cuttlefish or gnocchi. While maybe not getting the most accolades for dining in Italy, Venetian cuisine is nothing to scoff at.

The closest airport is Marco Polo Airport (VCE) on the mainland near the city of Mestre. Located 16 miles from Venice is the relatively small airport, Treviso (TSF), though it mainly serves domestic flights. The transportation choices in Venice are simple ones: by foot or by water. Gondolas and water taxis (vaporetti) will take visitors up and down the canal-riddled archipelago, while the inner parts of the city are highly walkable.

Venice has a humid subtropical climate with cool winters and very warm summers. July is the year’s hottest month, and has an average high temperature of 81.5° F (27.5° C). Winters can get quite cool, with breezes coming off of the water and average lows of 42.4° F (5.8° C). The best time to visit Venice is during the spring and autumn months, though summers are quite popular as well. Chances are the better the time of year, the more people that will visit along with you. Though you might not have Venice all to yourself, the city becomes incredibly personal once your first memory is made here.

Learn more at: http://etravelcruise.com/destinations/europe/italy/venice.html

For information & booking tours, cruises, vacation packages, please write to: info@eTravelCruise.com

Delhi, India, Travel, Tour, Vacation Packages, Tourism

With over 12 million residents, Delhi, India, is not only the country’s capital city, but the sixth-largest metropolis in the world by population.  Standing on the banks of the Yamuna River, Delhi is a rich blend of a past steeped in history and a vibrant, cosmopolitan present.  Due to the sheer size and constant congestion of people and traffic, Delhi can seem downright intimidating at first glance.  But sift through the gritty surface and travelers will discover that India’s capital is strewn with captivating monuments, magnificent museums, beautiful ancient dwellings, a thriving arts scene and some of the country’s most delectable and eclectic cuisine.

A veritable melting pot of language, culture, caste and religion, Delhi is a unique city with both Old and New World influences.  Visitors can easily spend time weaving back and forth from the dramatic Red Fort, Jama Masjid and medieval bazaars of Old Delhi, and in the same day hit one of New Delhi’s many trendy cafés or hip clubs.  Furthermore, Delhi travel also means diving into a world of international cuisine where everything from spicy curries and grilled kabobs, to wood-fired pizzas and fresh sushi can be found.

Delhi is not a city that can be seen in one day.  To fully appreciate the complexity and vivacity of this great city, travelers must fully immerse themselves into the many aspects of culture, history and tradition that pulses through the people and streets.  Whether it’s visiting the myriad of sights, including Akshardham Temple, Lodhi Garden, Humayun’s Tomb and the National Museum, or going shopping in one of the many bazaars and shopping districts for handmade crafts or beaded saris, Delhi is a one-of-a-kind experience not to be missed.

Famous for variety and spice, Delhi cuisine can consist of chaat (Indian tapas) and street food stalls selling homemade Tandoori chicken, or a five-star restaurant serving gourmet frontier cuisine, like Bukhara, in the Maurya Sheraton Hotel. Vegetarians will rejoice in the selection of mouth-watering restaurants like Sri Balaji, serving both North and South Indian dishes. For the Indian take on classic Italian food, check out Satoria in the south of Delhi. The authentic specials include a variety of pasta dishes, carpacchio and pizzas. For some cheap eats, Karim’s has been open since 1913 and serves up local favorites like Badam Pasanda (boneless mutton with yogurt and spices) and Chicken Noor Jahan.

The arrival point for many visitors into Delhi is Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL). The airport is large and extremely crowded. For international flights, travelers should show up at least two hours early. Travelers arriving into the city should arrange transportation from the airport to their hotel in advance to save time. Navigating around Delhi is quite an adventure, as traffic is notoriously horrible. The Delhi Metro is now open, and provides a cheap and air-conditioned option to travel around the city. Other modes of transportation are taxis, as well as auto and bicycle rickshaws.

Delhi has a subtropical climate with high variation between winter and summer precipitation and temperatures. Summers start early in the city, around April, and have an average daily temperature of 90° F (32.2° C). Winters start in November and peak in January, with an average daily temperate of 55° F (12.7° C). Monsoon season starts in late June and can late through September, bringing about 31.5 inches of rain. The best time to visit Delhi is in October and November, as well as February and March, when the days are sunny and warm, and the nights are cool and dry.

For more information: eTravelCruise.com

For booking your trip to India, New Delhi, Agra, Taj Mahal, Rajasthan, Jaipur, Mumbai, Goa, write to: info@etravelcruise.com

San Diego, California, Travel, Tour, Vacation Packages, Cruises, Hotels, All-Inclusive Resorts

When describing San Diego, California, one word comes to mind -- pleasant. And that’s a great thing. With arguably the best weather in the U.S., picture-perfect waves, a steady stream of tourists, economic boom and some of the friendliest people around, visiting this sunny SoCal locale is nothing if not unrelentingly pleasant. San Diego’s downtown area may have skyscrapers and countless rows of bars and restaurants, but the majority of the city is made up of beautiful outdoor parks and sandy beaches. From Balboa Park to endless stretches of boardwalk, San Diego is both a good-time hotspot and a beach lover’s paradise.

Beaches in San Diego like Coronado, La Jolla, Mission Bay and Encinitas are considered among the best in the country. With the majority of tourism focused on the waterfronts, the city has a resort-like feel to it most of the year. The world-famous San Diego Zoo is one of the largest and most progressive zoos in the world, with over 4,000 animals calling it home. For a little culture amidst the sunshine, check out the San Diego Museum of Art or the Museum of Man located in Balboa Park. At night, check out the best bar scenes in the Pacific Beach and Gaslamp Quarter located downtown.

With gastronomic influence coming from the city’s geography, ethnic mix and sustainable ingredients, San Diego cuisine is just as diverse as it is fresh.  For a French, Mediterranean and Californian-style fusion restaurant located beachside at La Jolla Shores, The Marine Room is famous for its high-end dishes and dramatic ocean views. El Agave Tequileria is an authentic Mexican restaurant situated in Old Town, and famous for its Mexican nouvelle cuisine and tequila list of over 100 brands. A trendy hotspot in town is the Quarter Kitchen. Located at the Ivy Hotel, the restaurant receives rave reviews for the Kobe beef pot pie and caviar tacos.

Located less than 10 minutes from downtown, San Diego International Airport (SAN) is the area’s largest passenger airport, serving most major domestic and international carriers. McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD), located in Carlsbad, Calif., is the other commercial passenger airport in San Diego County, and is used more for domestic commutes. The public transit system in San Diego includes the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS), which is a series of bus routes that operate throughout all parts of the region, as well as the San Diego Trolley. The trolley serves mainly the eastern, southeastern and downtown sections of the city. The best and most efficient way to get around sprawling San Diego is by car, as it’s a large metropolis and easily navigable.

Characterized by warm, dry summers and mild winters, San Diego is split between a Mediterranean and semi-arid climate. Summer temperatures are generally warm, with average highs ranging from 71° F (22° C) to 77.7° F (24.6° C). Average winter temperatures are usually anywhere from 66° F (18.8° C) to 70° F (21.1° C). Because the city receives an average of over 200 days of sunshine and just nine to 13 inches of rain annually, San Diego is a perfect year-round vacation destination.

Learn more at: http://etravelcruise.com/destinations/north-america/united-states/california/san-diego.html

For information, booking trips, tours, vacations, hotels, resorts, air, car rentals, please write to: info@eTravelCruise.com

Japan: Travel, Tours, Cruises, Tour Packages, Air, Hotel, Rail, Sightseeing, Mount Fuji, Tokyo

It’s hard to find another country with a culture as singular as Japan’s. Art, literature, food, architecture and even Japanese Buddhism are as distinct from the rest of the world as a fully armored samurai is from one of King Arthur’s knights. It seems like all travel to Japan is time travel; the trouble is that a traveler has to divide himself in two as half will wander through an elegant past, while the other half speeds into the future.

Traditionally, first-time travelers to Japan combine Tokyo and Kyoto with a call at Mount Fuji, but more and more of the country is opening up its smaller, nuanced destinations. At night, Tokyo’s Ginza district, fully juiced with neons, feels like a stroll through the future. A more traditional Japan can be found in Ueno-Onshi Park, where the Tokyo National Museum, dedicated to thousands of years of Japanese Art, is surrounded by several shrines, temples, museums, a five-story pagoda, a symphony hall and more. A new wave of younger American travelers, raised on Japanese animation is seeking out such Anime sites as the Ghibli Museum which was created by Hayao Miyazaki who made such Anime classics as Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away. With one of the world’s most user-friendly subway systems, Tokyo is an easy city to explore from the Tsukiji Market to the Imperial Palace.

Not even Vivaldi could celebrate the four seasons as well as Kyoto does. Kyoto is the 1,300-year-old capital of Japan, where the beauty of the country's feudal period is on full display. But you don’t have to go as far as Kyoto to find that feudal spirit. Just a short train ride from downtown Tokyo, Kawagoe feels like it lies centuries away. A quiet country town, Kawagoe became prominent when the Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, perhaps the most towering figure in Japan’s history, made it his northern military bulwark and gateway into his new national capital of Edo, which we now call Tokyo. Kawagoe’s Kitain Temple, originally built in 830, was rebuilt in 1638 after a fire. It’s also home to Kawagoe Castle, built in 1457 at roughly the same time that Edo Castle was being built in Tokyo. Other wonders of Japan include the Inland Sea, Hokkaido and the city of Hiroshima to name just a few.

Japanese food rode to popularity with the sushi craze of the 1980s and it continues in popularity today along with other kinds of Japanese cuisine. In Tokyo, be sure to catch an early morning meal of sushi at Tsukiji Market. Both Tokyo and Osaka serve as important gateways into Japan and the rest of Asia as well.

Learn more at: http://etravelcruise.com/destinations/asia/japan.html

For more information & booking air, hotel, tour, cruise packages, please write to: Info@eTravelCruise.Com

Panama Canal, Connecting Atlantic Ocean & Pacific Ocean: Travel, Tour Packages, Cruises, Boat Tour

“Honoring the past by building the future” is the idea that the Panama Canal was created on, and it continues to uphold this belief.  The vision of this heroic achievement was brought to life in 1914, after years of dreaming, planning and constructing what would eventually lead to Panama’s independence and become one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.  
The Panama Canal is a waterway that was created to provide a connection from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean.  At 48 miles long, this global landmark reduces a 14,000 mile journey from California to New York into a mere 8,000 miles, allowing large vessels to navigate across the Isthmus of Panama. By looking to the future, the Panama Canal has become one of the planet’s greatest milestones; bringing worlds together by the diligence of the French and later the United States, who completed the mission of transforming a small dream into a great reality.   With more than 14,000 ships passing through the famous canal annually and a myriad of shipping possibilities, the Panama Canal continues to make a grand splash across the seven seas. 

Located in the vibrant country of Panama, there are several ways to experience this iconic symbol of hope, which took 34 years in the making.  The Interoceanic Canal Museum of Panama (Panama Canal Museum) transports its guests to the origins of the canal through eventful stories and exhibitions.  The Visitor Center at Miraflores Locks is also a must-see. It is decorated with exhibits demonstrating the technical improvements of the canal; you may even see a ship passing by from the museum’s viewing deck.  The Canal Administration Building depicts its past with an impressive mural; however, what better way to experience this historic journey than by cruising through its magnificent realm on a boat tour.  

The Panama Canal bridged the gap between cultures, brought insight to advancements in architecture, and forever changed the navigation of the inter-oceanic passage.

Learn more at: http://etravelcruise.com/destinations/central-america/panama/panama-canal.html

For more information or booking air, hotel, tour package, boat tour, cruise, car rental, write to: Info@eTravelCruise.com

Travel to Baden Baden, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany: Travel, Tour, Cruises, Air, Hotel, Car Rental, Packages

 Baden Baden is the true definition of a paradise where picturesque parks, gardens, the Black Forest, and exquisite architecture offer an amazing backdrop, which intensify the need to relax and indulge in such splendor. With such a tranquil atmosphere, this emerald town is a unique and lavish destination, whose aim is to fulfill your heart’s desires.

The old town is a peaceful spa retreat that is known to provide its visitors with the luxuries of life and cultural adventures. From thermal baths and springs resembling ancient Roman baths to massages, caviar treatments, and body scrubs, you will feel completely at peace and stress free from the hassles of everyday life.

Overflowing with manicured green pastures, refreshing thermal baths, and ancient attractions, Baden Baden is the perfect destination if you are in need of relaxation and fun. The old town is a peaceful spa retreat that is known to provide its visitors with the luxuries of life and cultural adventures. From thermal baths and springs resembling ancient Roman baths to massages, caviar treatments, and body scrubs, you will feel completely at peace and stress free from the hassles of everyday life. Baden Baden is the true definition of a paradise where picturesque parks, gardens, the Black Forest, and exquisite architecture offer an amazing backdrop, which intensify the need to relax and indulge in such splendor. With such a tranquil atmosphere, this emerald town is a unique and lavish destination, whose aim is to fulfill your heart’s desires.

Situated on the banks of the Oos River, Baden Baden is a resort town in the state of Baden-Wurttemberg in Germany.  Baden, meaning baths, dates back to the Roman period when baths were first introduced to the town.  However, Baden Baden did not fully become a spa resort until the 19^th century.  Since then, the establishments of many spas and springs have dominated the town.  Elaborately decorated with marble, brass columns, and lily pads, the nude bathhouse Friedrichsbad, was a popular retreat for the rich and famous. However, tourists are invited to unwind inside the steamy saunas and massage rooms. The Baths of Caracalla are also enticing to visitors with its indoor and outdoor swimming pools, waterfalls, and Jacuzzis.  Baden Baden is also filled with cultural sites.  The Museum Frieder Burda invites visitors on an extraordinary exploration of modern architecture through paintings and sculptures. The neo-classical style Festspielhau is where the town’s locals go to watch classical music concerts performed by international artists. Try your luck at a game of Poker or marvel at the elegant décor of Germany’s oldest casino.  History lovers would appreciate the lavish ancient churches and castles that can be found throughout the narrow streets.

Along with the many attractions, you cannot visit the town without shopping in the trendy markets. The paved roads are painted with boutiques and stores that offer some of the best souvenirs and designer merchandise that Germany has to offer.  Take a break from shopping and head to the cafés and bars, which offer scenic views, lively music, and great European wines and treats.

Baden Baden offers a unique dining experience with delightful sceneries of pictorial gardens. Chefs are culinary masters at preparing traditional specialties influenced by their European neighbors.  The sweet aromas from veal, black forest ham, union and black forest cake, and potato salad fill the atmosphere of the charming restaurants.  Also, feast your senses on red and white wines from the local vineyards.  The gastronomy of Baden Baden will satisfy any food connoisseur with its endless supply of mouthwatering delicacies.

During the course of a year, Baden Baden experiences a moderate humid climate, with typically warm summers. During the warm season (May-September) the temperature averages from the high 50s to high 70s.  In the cold season (November- March) the temperature fluctuates between the 30s and 40s.

Baden Baden’s pleasant landscape is best enjoyed by walking or on a horse-drawn carriage.  From the town’s center there are a number of buses that provide transportation and tours to various attractions and locations in Baden Baden.  To reach other major German cities, catching a train is the best way to travel.  In addition taxis are also available to take you to your desired location and renting a car is accessible but expensive.

Learn more: http://etravelcruise.com/destinations/europe/germany/baden-baden.html

For Booking, Tour Packages, Air, Hotel, Car Rental, Rail, Cruises, write to: info@eTravelCruise.com

Vilnius, Lithuania: Travel, Tour Packages, Europe River Cruises, Air & Hotel Bookings, Car Rentals

Chosen as the 2009 “European Capital of Culture,” Vilnius, Lithuania, is a charming and uniquely enchanting medieval city. The mainly Baroque architecture is coupled together with Gothic and Renaissance buildings that have sprouted up over the centuries, making for a diverse and distinctive skyline. Alive with culture and romance, travelers to Vilnius will be captivated by the historical beauty and dense artistic inspiration that runs throughout the city. From the medieval stone archways above narrow, cobbled streets and beautiful towering churches, to shiny modern galleries and glowing nightclubs, Lithuania’s capital city is a sundry of old and new.

Located in southeastern Lithuania, Vilnius sits at the confluence of the Vilnia and Neris rivers and is said to be the geographical center of Europe. A city that is steeped in rich history and in contemporary culture, Vilnius has both UNESCO World Heritage-protected buildings and churches, as well as a bronze statue of psychedelic musician Frank Zappa. A mix of traditionalists and dreaming bohemians, the city has great appeal to travelers in search of European whimsy.

One of Vilnius’ 40 breathtaking churches, St. Anne’s Church stands out in the city’s Old Town section as a beautiful Gothic church which Napoleon himself wished to take back with him to Paris. Just beyond Old Town is a section called Uzupis. Considered an independent republic, Uzupis is where artists, writers and revolutionaries came to settle and open up galleries, shops and riverside restaurants and pubs. A city unlike any other, Vilnius has an easy, soulful atmosphere and eccentric charm that travelers yearn for.

In addition to Lithuanian staples like dark rye bread, potatoes and borscht, the cuisine of Vilnius has slowly been expanding into international and fusion fare. An example of this step into international flavors is Pegasus. The restaurant’s minimalist décor allows the French, Italian and Iraqi cuisine speak for itself. For a unique treat, Tores, located in the Uzupis district, is a restaurant, wine cellar and art gallery all in one. At Zemaiciai, patrons can have their meals while sitting on thrones or giant beds as they dine in this medieval-looking restaurant with vaulted brick ceilings and hearty Lithuanian food and beer.

Vilnius International Airport (VNO) is Lithuania’s largest airport and serves several domestic and international carriers including airBaltic, Aerosvit Airlines, Lufthansa and Aer Lingus. While there is no main public transportation system in Vilnius, buses and trolleys run routes all over the city, with a single ticket costing 2 to 2.50 LTR, depending on if they're purchased at a kiosk or from the driver. There are discounts for students and the elderly. Taxis are another option for navigating throughout the city, as they are more efficient than buses but are a little more expensive. Walking is the most recommended way to travel around parts of the city like Old Town, as it is very pedestrian-friendly and can easily be explored on foot.

Vilnius has a continental, maritime climate, which means there is a vast difference between the cold winter and warm summer temperatures. In summer months, temperatures can reach as high as 86° F (30° C), though the average temperature from June through August typically remains in the low 70s. Mid-summer is the rainiest time of year, though large amounts of precipitation can fall during the winter as well, which sees an average temperature of 26° F (-3.3° C). It is not uncommon for temperatures to reach far below freezing for large stretches in winter months, bringing bitter cold winds, frozen lakes and snowfall. The best time of year to visit is in the late spring and summer, as this is the time of year when the nightlife and daytime festivities are in full swing, with outdoor bars, cafes, restaurants and concerts.

Learn more at: http://etravelcruise.com/destinations/europe/lithuania/vilnius.html

For information, bookings, air, hotel, car rental, River Cruises, tour packages, write to: Info@eTravelCruise.com

San Francisco, California, USA: Travel, Tourism, Cruises, Air, Hotel, City Passes,Tour, Excursion Packages

At the very source of San Francisco’s charm is a bevy of eccentric neighborhoods and people so diverse that everyone fits in. As the gem of the Bay Area, San Francisco, California, is well known for its Victorian architecture, hilly terrain, fusion cuisine and rich cultural dynamism. A veritable United Nations of people, sights, and experiences to be had; the city will leave its quirky appeal lingering in your memories long after you’ve left.

This seven-by-seven mile peninsula is made up of eleven official neighborhoods that each offers something unique. Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular area on the bay that boasts a plethora of fresh seafood restaurants, attracting not only hungry tourists, but corpulent, lazy sea lions who like to sunbathe on the pier. Hang out in Haight: a once-bohemian area that is known as the birthplace of the hippie movement and which still has eclectic boutiques and small Dead Head coffee shops. Whether stopping for dim sum in Chinatown, shopping in Union Square, taking a cable car ride throughout ritzy Knob Hill or letting it all hang out in the Castro, San Fran remains a wonderfully inexplicable microcosm of the world.

Consistently voted one of the best cities in the United States, San Francisco is the perfect place to indulge in the rich essence of a west coast boomtown. With passes like the CityPass, Go San Francisco Card and the Wharf Pass, visitors gain admission (at a lower cost) to some of the city’s finest museums, like the Museum of Modern Art, California Academy of Sciences and the de Young Museum, as well as ferry rides, tours and transportation. While landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Transamerica Pyramid and infamous Alcatraz Island never fail as tourist magnets, it’s attractions like Ghirardelli Square, the authentic eateries of Chinatown, cable cars of Union Square and Pier 39 that keep them coming back.

An epicurean city in every sense of the word; San Fran boils over with new and inventive cuisine, from sustainable and organic to intricate fusion and wine-plate pairings. With trendy restaurants like Greens and Millenium, not only will vegetarians never go hungry in this town; they’ll eat really well. With a seemingly unlimited surplus of great seafood restaurants, visitors need only to walk into the likes of Sotto Mare, Swan Oyster Depot or Hyde Street Seafood House and have their pick of some of the freshest selections in the Pacific Northwest. As the nation’s largest Chinatown, it becomes an absolute treat to (yet a daunting task) to pick from the bevy of authentic rice houses and tea rooms. House of Nanking, Lichee Garden and Brandy Ho’s Hunan Food are all touted as some of the very best in the city.

Located 14 miles south of the city, San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is the region’s major domestic and international gateway. The airport is connected to the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART), which transports passengers throughout the San Francisco and the neighboring communities. The other forms of public transit are the San Francisco Municipal Railway, which has street and cable cars, buses and metro, as well as the Caltrain which is a regional rail to San Jose. Besides walking, there is no better way to see the city than on the world-famous cable cars, which run north-south between Market Street and Fisherman’s Wharf.

San Francisco has a mild Mediterranean climate which is heavily influenced by the cool Pacific currents and gives the city year-round mild temperatures. May through October is considered the dry period and is relatively warm, with average temperatures in the low 70° F (21° C). The rainy season tends to last from November to April, when temperatures get a bit cooler and remain around 58-64° F (14-18° C). There is no best time to visit the city, as the weather remains consistently mild and whether it be an attraction or festival or cultural event; there’s always something going on in San Francisco.

Learn more at: http://etravelcruise.com/destinations/north-america/united-states/california/san-francisco.html

For booking, travel, tourism, hotel, air, tour, excursion packages, write to: Info@eTravelCruise.com

Bora Bora, French Polynesia, Travel Tourism Vacation Packages: Ideal Romantic Destination

Romantics, you have found your ideal destination. The small island of Bora Bora is only 18 miles in circumference, but it’s home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and waters, and the luxurious pampering resorts with overwater bungalows and thatched roofs we dream of for our ultimate retreats. Add to that scenery the sharply rising Mount Otemanu, which reaches almost 2,400 feet above sea level, and lush tropical slopes and valleys, and you’ve got the closest thing to paradise on earth.

Your resort will be located either on the southern end of the main island or on its own motu (islet in the lagoon). The water is the key to what will keep you active when you want to venture from your lounge chair or spa treatment. The turquoise lagoon surrounded by picture-perfect white sand beaches is your playground for such unique experiences as shark feeding. You stand in the shallow lagoon far enough away but close enough to watch your guides hand-feed the sharks. Explore the lagoon via glass-bottom boat, motorboat or jet ski, or just snorkel from your bungalow or off the beach anywhere on the island. Diving is also big here with marine life galore.

Venture off the coast and to the interior roads on a hike or 4X4 accompanied by a local guide. You’ll be treated to unbelievable overlook views. And be sure to make some time to shop for local and international original art, Tahitian pearls, perfumes and oils, and precious wood handcrafts.

Most meals will be eaten at your resort, where you’ll be treated to world-class dining, complete with some of the best water views you’re ever going to see. Many of the properties also offer after-dinner Polynesian shows, incorporating the cultural flavor into your stay. Cuisine here is as you would expect -- lots of local seafood, fruits and vegetables to enjoy.

Romantic options that can be arranged include a gourmet picnic on a private beach or a sunset cruise with four-course dinner aboard a private catamaran. And of course the ultimate in romance is breakfast by outrigger canoe brought to your overwater bungalow or villa. The flower-decorated canoe brings with it fresh fruits, pastries and juices by a welcoming resort staff member.

International flights land at Faa’a Airport in Papeete on the island of Tahiti. Flight time is just under eight hours from Los Angeles and about 12 hours from New York’s JFK. Air Tahiti Nui, Tahiti’s national carrier, offers nonstop direct service from both cities. Air Tahiti has five or six flights daily to the Bora Bora Airport on Moto Mute from Tahiti (as well as from other islands). It’s about a one-hour flight.

The airport, built on a motu, is accessible only by a short ferry ride to Vaitape. Resort transport is either by private motorboats from the airport operated by some of the luxury resorts, or by shuttle from Vaitape. Public transport on the island is limited. Bicycles are a great way to get around.

Average year-round temperatures is 79° F., with water temperatures averaging 79° F. in the winter and 84° F. during the summer.

For more information, please visit: http://etravelcruise.com/destinations/pacific/bora-bora.html

For booking, air, tour, vacation packages, lease email us at: Info@eTravelCruise.com

Travel to Playa del Carmen, Mexico, the Picture Perfect Paradise

Completely surrounded by beauty, Playa del Carmen is a small city with a big heart.  Spend your days with sand at your feet and the wind in your hair, as the multicolored ocean gently brushes against your skin.  This picture-perfect paradise is a golden treasure charming its guests with serene ambiance.  What better way to recharge your batteries than on a Spanish getaway, where your most sacred fantasies are brought to life.  So grab your swimsuit and your favorite book and visit Playa del Carmen, Mexico to experience the true definition of heaven on earth.

This pleasant town is stretched along the Caribbean Sea and comfortably nestled in the country of Mexico.  Affectionately known as Playa by its inhabitants, Playa del Carmen is mixed with locals and passing tourists in search of an exotic adventure.  Retrace the footprints of its Mayan ancestors, who have shaped this town into becoming one of Mexico’s most cultural destinations.  Whether you are diving among the tropical fish or touring its vibrant Zocalo (plaza), the highlights of Playa del Carmen are insightful passages into its rich traditions.  Take a tour of Playa del Carmen’s beachfront, Playcar and watch backdrops of the sun as it fades behind the Riviera Maya, while its archeological gems glisten in the near distance.  If you are a sports lover, Playa del Carmen’s verdant golf courses are ready for you to score a birdie; also the city’s colorful maritime is a host to a plethora of water sports.

Shake the sand off your feet and head to Playa del Carmen’s shopping districts.  Mostly located on 5th Avenue (locally known as Quinta Avenida), this pedestrian-filled street is painted with stores bursting at the seams with Mexican treasures.  Playcar is also known for its vivacious stores, offering a wide spectrum of Spanish and international goods.  By dusk, this lazy town transforms into an adrenaline pumping social event.  Hotspots like Root n' Fire and Blue Parrot Beach Club light up the night with their pulsating music, delicious cocktails, and picturesque backdrops.

Eat, drink and be merry as you take part in Playa del Carmen’s dining experience.  For a taste of the Mayan culture the façade of 5^th Avenue as well as other streets in the town are speckled with restaurants filled with the aromas of seafood, tacos, empanadas, tostados, and Spanish tapas.   Its culinary masterpieces are cooked to perfection with authentic Mexican ingredients.  However, if you are craving something different, the gastronomy is also speckled with an array of multicultural dishes as well. 

Playa del Carmen experiences a subtropical climate with high humidity.  During the months of September to June (warm season) the temperature averages around a high of 89 °F.   From November to February (cold season) the weather cools to an average high of 80 °F.

Navigating around Playa del Carmen is relatively simple.  Since it is so small, it is quite easy to walk to its different highlights. To venture outside of the town, there are buses available and they are located on 5^th   and Juarez Avenues.  Taxis are also accessible and can be hailed from the streets.

Learn more: http://etravelcruise.com/destinations/north-america/mexico/playa-del-carmen.html

For booking, travel, tours, cruises, hotela, all inclusive packages to Playa del Carmen or any other destination, please write to: Info@eTravelCruise.com

(Photo credits: Photos taken from google images. If any of them is copyrighted, please let me know so that we can remove them. Thanks.)

Visit Azerbaijan, a Hidden Gem of a Country

"Azerbaijan" may not roll off the tongue, in fact, you may not even know where it is, but this former Russian territory in the Caucasus Mountains of southeastern Europe and Asia is a hidden gem of a country. Once an important stop on the Silk Route, Azerbaijan has potential to develop as a tourism destination as if offers one of a kind opportunities.

Azerbaijan is rich in ores, minerals and fuels. The most unforgettable site is the eternal burning fires in the hills of Ramana, Surakhani, Yanardag and Absheron. This phenomenon is caused by gas seeping through natural vents in the oil saturated ground. Zoroastrian fire worshipers occasionally perform ritual flame leaping dances at Ramana. Local petroleum and mineral spas have cropped up around the country to take advantage of the therapeutic naphthalene hydrocarbon (a grade of oil used for medicinal purposes). Patrons sit in a bath and are coated in oil up to their necks.

Within the coastal capital Baku is the medieval walled city of Icheri Sheher, with a Middle Eastern atmosphere where locals sip sweet black tea out of small glasses and play backgammon at teahouses along the narrow streets. Baku’s oldest building is Synyk Kalah Minaret, dating from 1093 AD. There are two caravanserais (inns), from the 14th and 16th centuries, originally built to house traveling merchants from northern India and central Asia. They have been turned into restaurants.

Baku overlooks the Caspian Sea, the largest lake in the world rich in biodiversity. Other important sites are the 10,000 year old rock paintings at Gobustan and 2,500 year old settlement of Sheiki. Travelers should avoid the dangerous Nagorno-Karabakh enclave and border with Armenia due to continual land ownership conflicts.

For more info, visit: http://etravelcruise.com/destinations/asia/azerbaijan.html

For tours, cruises, packages, air, hotels, car rentals, bookings, write to: Info@eTravelCruise.com

Azerbaijan, Caucasus Mountains, Baku, Caspian Sea,

Washington DC

A town of many faces and many facets, Washington, DC is much more than just the place you went to on middle school class trips. The nation’s capital offers tourists not only an abundance of American history and awe-inspiring governmental monuments, but a powerful emerging restaurant scene, as well as a variety of museums, parks and exhilarating nightlife hotspots. With a mix of people so eclectic and diverse, it’s hard not to consider DC one of the true great cosmopolitan cities of the United States.
The city is split up into four main districts. The Downtown area is home to the National Mall, the White House, the Smithsonian (one of many museums), business and theater districts as well as many fine dining venues. This area is the most popular tourist area for obvious reasons. North Central has some of the trendiest and most diverse neighborhoods in the DC area. Dupont Circle has an eclectic collection of cafés, bars, nightclubs shops and galleries, as well as Embassy Row. DC West consists of a group of upscale neighborhoods, including historic Georgetown, and boasts attractions including the National Cathedral and zoo. DC East is where you’ll find Capitol Hill and the Library of Congress. Though it’s the main bureaucratic headquarters of town, this section also offers bohemian nightlife in the Atlas District and a Roman Catholic area called “Little Vatican”.
With the number of sites and museums seeming to outnumber the people, there are a few places to hit up that might not be on all the typical must-see-in-DC lists. The International Spy Museum is like peering into James Bond’s toy chest. This fascinating museum highlights high-tech gadgetry, notorious spy cases and gives visitors complicated mysteries to solve. The National Zoological Park, known as the DC Zoo, is one of the nation’s most-visited zoos which includes an extensive panda habitat and live gorilla cams. For the quintessential adventure through history, the downtown area is home to tourist-friendly attractions like the Washington Monument, the Lincoln and Jefferson memorials, the Air and Space Museum and the Vietnam Memorial.
In recent years, Washington DC has become a gastronomic tour de force. For a fine dining French bistro with a casual atmosphere and moderate prices, check out Café du Parc, which is located next to the Willard InterContinental Hotel. For a raucous night of blues and southern cooking, head over to Madam’s Organ Blues Bar and Soul Food. The nightly live music and down home bar fare can be found nowhere else in the city. For cheap eats, try a chili dog and thick shake at Ben’s Chili Bowl, or a Middle Eastern late night bite at the Falafel Shop in the Adams Morgan section of town. For award-winning mussels and over 50 different Belgian ales, check out the laidback gastropub, Granville Moore’s.
The Washington DC area is served by three major airports. Ronald Regan Washington National Airport (DCA) is located in Arlington, Virginia, (10 minutes south of the city) and is the closest and most convenient choice for Washington DC travel. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), located 26 miles outside the city in Dulles, Virginia, is another option for both domestic and international major airline carriers. There are several modes of ground transportation to DC -- the most convenient being the Washington Flyer coach which operates every half-hour and costs $10 one-way or $18 roundtrip. Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) is located in 30 miles northeast of the city in Baltimore, Maryland. Though most commonly used for Baltimore travel, this airport is an alternative for those in the Maryland suburbs of Washington.
The public transportation system in Washington DC is one of the best in the county. The city’s subway system, called the Metro, is a clean and efficient way to navigate around the grid of DC. There are five intersecting rail lines which stop in all major neighborhoods, as well as multiple downtown locations. The lines are color-coded and tickets can be purchased by way of Metro farecards, which are located in all terminal stations. The bus system is a good choice for locations within the city that the Metro does not efficiently reach. As in most major cities, taxis are quite accessible, although they are one of the most expensive modes of transportation.

For More information & to request a quote to travel to Washington, DC, pl write to Info@eTravelCruise.com or visit: http://etravelcruise.com/destinations/north-america/united-states/washington-dc.html