Must visit Art Museums in Paris

Paris is home to some of the world's best art museums. If you are visiting Paris you have to ensure you make time to visit at least one if not all of our recommended art museums below. You will not be disappointed and will have an amazing experience.

Louvre Museum – Possibly the world’s most famous art museum. The Louvre museum is home to arguable the world’s single most renowned artwork, Leonardo da Vinci’s - Mona Lisa. Built in 1793 the museum attracts over 5 million visitors every year and holds the world’s largest collection of pre-20th century paintings, sculptures, and decorative objects.

Rodin Museum -  Whether you like scultures or not this is a must visit museum that is not to be missed. The museum showcases some of Auguste Rodin’s greatest works such as “The Thinker”. The museums sculpture garden is also a pleasure to stroll through and provides as much as an attraction as the inside of the building.

Musee d’Orsay – Boasting some of the most recognised collection of paintings in the world this is another must visit hotel in Paris. The museum holds works from Van Gogh, Auguste Renoir, Auguste Rodin and many other famous artists. An incredible experience as you sees some of the best paintings together side by side on show.

What else can you do in Paris? Find out with our Paris Travel Guide.

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Festival month in Edinburgh

 Head to Edinburgh this month and experience the unique atmosphere of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Running for three memorable weeks visitors are exposed to the very best of theatre and comedy, dance, music, opera and visual arts.

The festival dating back to 1947 sees thousands of performers take the stage all over Edinburgh - the festival caters to people of all ages. The Fringe festival is massive, vibrant and multi cultural, there are shows on for every hour of the day giving you more choice than you can possible wish for. 

Highlights of the festival include the shows/acts performing at The Pleasance Courtyard and the street performances who woo crowd’s day in day out on the Royal Mile.

This year’s festival runs from the 5-29th August. If your decide to head to Edinburgh and are looking for a hotel to book ensure you check out our top Edinburgh hotels on hotelbook.

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Top 5 places to visit in Miami

Miami is situated in the south-east of Florida. The beaches and various activities attract many tourists making it a popular tourist destination. There are many things to do in Miami, ranging from attractions for the family to the vibrant nightlife.
 
Everglades Safari Park have been serving the tourist industry for over 40 years as well as preserving the Florida Everglades. The park is the home of various species from around the world including the American Alligators where the brave can pet an alligator. The alligator farm is only one of the adventures that the park has to offer alongside an airboat ride narrated by experienced tour guides, wildlife shows and also jungle walkways. By visiting the Everglades Safari Park you are guaranteed to have an enjoyable family day out.

South Beach, or SoBe, is Miami’s most exciting beach. South Beach is known for its exceptional art deco and white sand whether it’s during the night or daytime the place will be buzzing so you will never get bored. An eventful day at the beach could go from sunbathing and relaxing in the day to clubbing and fancy restaurants at night.

Zoo Miami, a total of 740 acres of land owning more than 2,000 animals representing over 500 species and over 40 endangered animals as well as having over 70 species of birds, 10,000 - 15,000 Italian honey bees and more than 1000 various trees, palms and other plants. Zoo Miami is the ultimate destination for children. The Children’s zoo includes camel rides and a butterfly garden which is definitely going to excite the girls and boys.

Miami Seaquarium has been the longest operating oceanarium in the US. There are 8 different marine animal shows and presentations including the ‘Top Deck Dolphin Show’ and the ‘Golden Dome Sea Lion Show’ where you see dolphins walking on water and performing 23-foot high jumps and killer whales flying through the air. The Seaquarium also offer the chance for people to swim with dolphins.

The Miami Science Museum hosts Laser shows in the planetarium including ‘Legends of the Night Sky Laser Show’ where you are assured to see the wonders of science. The museum also holds math and science workshops and classes for the family free of charge known to amaze you while also broadening your knowledge.

Overall, Miami is the perfect destination for a fun filled holiday and is not to be missed. You are guaranteed to be entertained whatever the age. Miami is also home to many budget luxury boutique hotels such as The Best Miami Hotel and River Park Hotel Suites Port Miami which can both be booked for under $100 per night with hotelbook. Booking a hotel in Miami get any easier!

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Top 5 places for students to party this summer

Examinations complete, University is out, summer is here and you want to enjoy it as much as possible whilst you can. We all know vacationing can be expensive for cash strap students however there are a number of places students can travel and party this summer on a budget. Read on and find out our top 5 destinations for students to visit.

Cancun, Mexico
A popular destination filled with students every summer. Expect to see drop dead gorgeous beaches, late night partying and experience many adrenaline pumping activities that will blow a hangover away in an instant. If you go there be sure to visit the Underwater Art Museum.

Miami, USA
The ever popular iconic Miami Beach is a popular destination for students worldwide. With its uber cool beaches, party atmosphere and sunshine, Miami is the place to party hard whilst working on your tan. You are also likely to find great value cheap hotel deals in Florida.

Amsterdam, Holland
Famous for night long parties, summer dance festivals and its overall general craziness Amsterdam is always high on the list of possible travel destinations for students. Happy hours at clubs, food and drink vendors and legal marijuana mean visitors will have a busy fun filled summer break!

Budapest, Hungary
When people think about Budapest the first thing that usually comes to mind is the Sziget music festival however the city has much more to offer. Great pubs, underground clubs, rooftop bars, delicious Hungarian specialty restaurants and multiple party spots are some of the attractions.

Goa, India
Popular amongst students visiting India, Goa is world famous for its beach sleepovers and all night beach parties. The place is popular amongst tourists all year round with the winter and summer season being the most popular.

Need more location ideas our travel guides will help you make your decision.

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Top 3 attractions in Venice, Italy

As one the most enchanting cities in Europe, Venice is truly blessed with breathtaking scenery, architecture and is known worldwide for its famous canals. If you are visiting Italy then Venice should definitely be high on your must go places. With so many great attractions the hotelbook.com team has compiled our top 3 must see attractions in Venice.

St Mark's Basilica

Built in 832 AD Saint Mark’s Basilica is the most famous of the city’s many churches. Located just off the Grand Canal the buildings picturesque architecture is popular with many tourists. Inside the church visitors are immediately fascinated by the rare and important artwork which provides a further highlight.

Canal Grande 

Travel along this fantastic stretch of water and take in some of Venice's most spectacular and extravagant landmarks. A trip at night will add to the experience by making it that extra bit special as the city’s architecture mirrors beautifully onto the water.

Piazza San Marco (St Mark’s Square) 

As the central square in Venice, the Piazza San Marco is the most visited place in the city. Take in the ancient architecture and arts, go on a romantic walk with a partner or relax with a coffee in one of the many cafes. The Piazza San Marco is even more beautiful at night as the light refects majestically of the buildings. 

If you are looking for accomondation there is a huge range of great hotels you can book into such as the Starhotels Splendid Venice and the 5* La Scala Palace hotel.

For more hotels in Venice visit hotelbook.com

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Top Choice Iconic and Famous Hotels

We all have a favourite hotel or holiday that we like to re-visit every few years, going back to a place that is special to us and is significant in our lives. But what about visiting some of the most infamous and recognisable hotels in the world? Places steeped in history, glamour and mystery where the rich and famous misbehaved and retired away from the public’s glare. But you too can experience your own piece of the glamour by booking a room at one of these world famous haunts and making your own memories along the way…

 The Roosevelt Hotel, Hollywood

You can’t get much more glamorous than Hollywood and the Roosevelt doesn’t disappoint. Luxurious and world renowned for its celebrity guests, the hotel on Hollywood Boulevard first opened its doors in 1927. It famously held the first Academy Awards in its Ballroom in 1929, was home to Marilyn Monroe for two years during her modelling career and has featured in a number of films.

There has been a recent surge in popularity within young Hollywood in the last few years, thanks to trendy night  club Teddy's, which is located in the main lobby of the hotel.Everyone from Charlie Chaplin to Paris Hilton has stayed here, with some celebrities requesting the same room every time for each stay.

Book the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel

 
Deauville Beach Resort Hotel, Miami

Built in 1948 and completed in the early 1960’s, the Deauville was home to the coolest stars of the time. A favourite haunt for the Rat Pack, the Deauville was where Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Peter Lawford, Sammy Davis Jr. and Joey Bishop liked to hold court.
 
Located on Collins Drive, the hotel is right on the beach and looks out across the Atlantic Ocean. Set amongst some of the most stunning and exotic scenery, you will feel like you are in paradise. Steeped in musical history, The Beatles appeared in their second US performance ever, broadcast live on the Ed Sullivan Show, direct from the hotel’s famed Napoleon Ballroom. Great live music is showcased at the hotel still today and is a must visit if you want to relive the exciting world of 60’s America.

Book Deauville Beach Resort

Warwick New York Hotel, New York City

Originally commissioned as a guest house for his friends from Hollywood, newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst built the hotel in 1926. Located minutes from Central Park, on West 54th Street in Manhattan, the hotel is in a prime location for visiting Broadway and Rockefeller centre. For years Paramount Studios had quietly housed their stars at the Warwick, but when The Beatles gave a press conference during their stay on August 13, 1965 prior to the performance at Shea Stadium, the hotel was firmly on the map. Previous guests have also included Jimi Hendrix, Cary Grant and Elvis Presley.

Book the Warwick Hotel New York

The Ritz, Paris

Established in 1898, it is the oldest Ritz Hotel in the world, full of exquisite décor and beautiful surroundings, it is one of the  best hotels in the world. Located at 15 Place Vendôme, in the heart of Paris, it has featured in many films and novels giving the Ritz a  reputation for extravagance. In Billy Wilder's 1957 comedy Love in the Afternoon, Audrey Hepburn initiates her romance with Gary Cooper in his suite in the hotel. The hotel was also featured in the Da Vinci Code, The Devil wears Prada and Coco Chanel was a permanent resident in the 1930’s.

Book the Ritz Paris Hotel

The Roosevelt Hotel, New York

Yes it is another Roosevelt hotel, but this time in New York. Located at Madison Avenue and 45th Street in  midtown Manhattan, it is also named in honour of President Theodore Roosevelt and opened 1924. Conrad Hilton purchased the Roosevelt in 1943 calling her "a fine hotel with grand spaces" and eve  n though he eventually owned many other hotels in New York, he chose the Roosevelt's Presidential Suite as his home. In 1947, the Roosevelt became the first hotel to have a television set in every room marking its place at the very top.

The hotel has featured in many films such as Wall Street, Maid in Manhattan and The French Connection and was more recently mentioned during an episode of Mad Men.
Palatial and expensive, the Roosevelt is another example of pure luxury and history rolled into one.

Book the Roosevelt Hotel New York

All these hotels are true icons of their age. Home to movie stars, pop stars, politicians and royalty these hotels offer everyone a taste of the best, the perfect way to treat yourself and feel like a star.

Cinco De Mayo Fiesta 2011

If you have always wanted to visit Mexico, but wish to really experience the culture of this vibrant country then there is no better time to visit than during Cinco de Mayo.

Spanish for Fifth of May, it is a national holiday held every year on and during the first week of May to commemorate the Mexican army's unlikely victory over French forces, which had control over the country, at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of Mexican heritage and pride but is mainly celebrated in America, as the holiday is overshadowed in Mexico by their own Independence Day which takes place in September.

The best place to visit to experience true Mexican pride is the state of Puebla. Steeped in history, this area to the East of Mexico City celebrates Cinco de Mayo better than anywhere else. The capital city in Puebla was integral during the battle against the French in 1862. Just outside the city, inexperienced Mexican troops attacked the French who were camped there. This resulted in victory; although the French moved on to take Mexico City. They dominated the country until 1867.

Today the most important celebrations of the festival take place at the Loreto and Guadalupe forts in the city of Puebla, where the battle occurred. The highlight is a re-enactment of the event at the site, which is highly informative and entertaining. The state also has 2,600 historic buildings, antiques, bars and pottery workshops with the downtown of the capital filled with churches, government buildings and large homes, built by indigenous hands for their Spanish overlords, which are all well worth a look.

You could also venture to the US and experience the celebrations there. In the past, huge parties have taken place in the capital, Washington D.C. In June 7, 2005, the U.S. Congress issued a Concurrent Resolution calling on the President to issue a proclamation calling upon the citizens of the United States to observe Cinco de Mayo with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

Celebrations in highly Latino and Spanish areas of the US such as California, tend to draw both from traditional Mexican symbols, such as the Virgen de Guadalupe, and from prominent figures of Mexican descent in the United States, such as César Chávez.

On your travels you are bound to see bright, colourful displays around the local towns, with many displaying Cinco de Mayo banners. Local schools also hold special events to educate pupils about its historical significance. All over the country, celebrations can be found from mariachi demonstrations held at the Plaza del Pueblo in Los Angeles to street parties showcasing the best of Mexican food, dance, sport and plenty of tequila. There are often parades and carnivals throughout the country, making a romantic getaway or family holiday even more fun.

 
Some of the best places to go include;

Denver, Colorado where the Cinco de Mayo Celebrate Culture Festival attracts over 400,000 people and lasts for two days.

Chicago, Illinois where celebrations held in Douglas Park draws as many as 200,000 people to its colourful Cinco de Mayo celebration that includes a festival, musical events, food booths, games, kids area, and cultural displays.

Reno, Nevada attracts more than 100,000 visitors along with Kansas City, Kansas which celebrates Cinco de Mayo in the heartland.

The San Antonio, Texas Cinco de Mayo festival is also a must see, with music, food, concerts and other commemorations taking place at the historic Market Square.

View more on the Cinco de Mayo celebrations on our event travel guide.

Top Ten Spring Breaks This Year

With half terms, Easter and bank holidays fast approaching, these would make the ideal times for that perfect spring break. Our choice of top ten spring breaks, from local destinations and to ones further afield, should offer you plenty of inspiration to plan your perfect spring getaway.

Looking for that perfect winter sun, the Canaries can offer you just that. They are one of the most popular winter destinations for those looking for a quick boost of Vitamin D. These islands just off the coast of Africa guarantee warmer weather. With only a 4 ½ hour flight from the UK and many cheap deals on offer you can understand why people visit the Canaries for a short holiday.  You can even tailor make your holiday to suit you, so why not start by making your hotel booking online.

When looking at the Maldives they just scream luxury. Looking for that extra special place for a spring break, indulge yourself here. Online hotel booking is easy, and by researching the many resorts, you’ll be able to find the one that suits your needs best. Whether it be a spoiling yourself with a cosy beach hut, or that luxury room on wooden struts over the sea, the choice is yours.

Not many countries offer so many fantastic destinations in one. Italy is one of the most diverse countries offering you cities breaks, to quiet weekends in the country, to a week’s beach holiday. If you want to truly grasp all that Italy has to offer, with its excellent rail network you can easily do a touring holiday. Hotel booking for destinations along your way, allows you to have the adventure you have always dreamed about with the added comfort and security.

Saving for that perfect summer holiday doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the many opportunities that are fast approaching for a spring break. You don’t have to go abroad. With so many lovely destinations on offer in the UK such as the quaint Cotswolds, the magnificent Peak and Lake Districts or the beautiful coastline of Devon and Cornwall you are almost spoilt for choice. Many UK destinations have unique and quirky festivals and events going on, so book hotels at your chosen destination and sample the traditional and lively culture the UK has to offer.

Paris is known as one of the most romantic cities in the world and it is ideal for any length of stay. With many Eurostar deals available, flying to this popular destination is not your only option. Online hotel booking is perfect for this destination as it allows you to choose from many spectacular hotels in the area you most want to visit, and you can read reviews and read up on local information. Make sure you’re not too far from the main attractions as walking around Paris is a must, and you don’t want to be relying on the subway for your whole trip or you’ll miss out on the city’s charms.

Dubai is a must for a spring break.  Not only does Dubai provide warm temperatures it also has many other attractions, such as the Dubai Shopping Festival which happens in the early part of the year, Wild Wadi water park and Ski Dubai. Dubai is another location that screams indulgence from the shopping malls to the luxury hotels, hosting the world’s only 7 star hotel. The flight time (at 6 hours from the UK) is perfect for a quick fix of winter sun. Making your hotel booking online allows you to choose the hotel with all the amenities that suit you.

Beating the school holiday boredom is a challenge for any parent. The advice that I have so often heard is be prepared. Come up with activities or trips that not only your children will enjoy but is a treat for the whole family. You don’t need to vacate to the corners of the world to provide your children with something that will entice them. The Republic of Ireland seems to have answers with many beautiful places to visit and explore, why not book hotel now and start planning your Irish adventure.

Orlando is one of the most popular destinations in the state of Florida. Orlando offers many world famous destinations such as Disney World, Universal Studios and many more, all suitable for any age group. When thinking of Florida many people worry about the cost of this trip knowing that theme parks are expensive, but when you make your hotel booking online you can be sure to find a reasonable hotel that allows you to do everything you have been dreaming about.

The Aurora Borealis is a natural and beautiful phenomenon. Many excursions take place around Vancouver offering you the chance to see one of nature’s wonders for yourself. Make your hotel booking online so you can find a well-priced hotel meaning you can afford to do these excursions, as well as the many other attractions Vancouver has to offer.

We all have our own ideas of Las Vegas. We’ve heard the celebrity stories and seen the films, so why not experience it and see for yourself what Las Vegas is really about. This large extravagant city where fun and thrilling adventure are bound to take place offers so much and not just in gambling or shows. With excursions to the Grand Canyon and beyond, visiting the Nevada desert has never seemed so tempting and online hotel booking offers you one of the best ways to get hold of some unbeatable prices.

Making any online hotel booking is easy and you can be sure to book the right hotel to suit your needs.  Choosing the perfect destination is the hard part!

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Iconic Places to visit on your travels

Looking for ideas for your next holiday? How about travelling and visiting some of the world’s most iconic sights - from natural wonders to the historic monuments which have stood through the test of time.  The world is a beautiful place and with so many fascinating must see places across the globe. The hotelbook.com team have picked out three of the most memorable places you can visit this year.

Iconic Place for History - Taj Mahal, Agra, India

The Taj Mahal in Agra, India is part of the Seven Wonders of the World and stands as a symbol of eternal love. Built in 1632, The Taj Mahal is known for its picturesque symmetry after the then Emperor Shah Jahan got the monument constructed in the memory of his beloved wife. The Taj Mahal is one of the most popular places in the world and tourists worldwide visit there each year for a once in a lifetime tour of the historic monument.

Iconic Place for Nature - Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA

The Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona sees nearly 5 million visitors every year. Anyone who has ever been to the Grand Canyon will tell you about being overwhelmed with a mixture of fear and excitement when they experience the awe inspiring views of this gigantic natural wonder.  The most popular part of the Grand Canyon is the South Rim, however at 277 miles long and 18 miles wide there are plenty of viewing options at the Canyon.

Iconic Place for Culture - City of Rome, Italy

Rome is a city full of culture – arts, magnificent architecture, cuisine, fashion and religion are just some of the attributes that make the city popular with tourists seeking culture abroad. Founded in 753BC the remains of Ancient Rome are still evident in the city.  The Coliseum still stands as one of the leading symbols of both Ancient and modern day Rome. Rome is also the home of the Catholic Church with millions of visitors flocking in each year to visit the Vatican City.

For more adventurous travel ideas take a look at our city travel guides.

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Book your summer holiday now to avoid missing out on the best hotel deals and locations.

With money tight, holidaymakers are looking for value for money as well as quality for their summer holiday in 2011. The coldest winter in years has put an end too many families ideas of having another ‘staycation’ this year and so hotter climes are definitely on the cards come June.

Experts recommend holidaying out of the EU this year to save money both when booking and when your holiday comes around. Warm, sunny weather all year round, beautiful safe waters and wonderful spa hotels in many EU countries mean they are sure to be a hit with couples and families alike.

The Canaries, Cyprus and Greece will always remain favourites with British holidaymakers along with Spain and Portugal. Those who fancy venturing further afield should try Goa, Jamaica and Grenada for hot sunshine and a relaxing atmosphere where you truly feel like you are in paradise.

But how can you ensure you don’t miss out on your dream destination this year? With more people set to holiday abroad this year in search of hotter climes to escape both the winter and economic blues back home, you need to make sure you book as early as possible. Small deposits are commonly available when booking meaning you don’t have to pay yet another huge bill in January when your finances are still recovering from Christmas. Many places also offer discounts or reductions the earlier you book, so make sure you take this into account.

By booking early you will also have more of a choice when it comes to the best hotel reservations, flight times and locations. Although many savvy shoppers like to wait and get a last minute bargain, these are often very limited meaning you would have less choice, often a lower rated hotel and flights at very odd times of the night-not the best when you are travelling. And there is also the possibility that you won’t find anything that fits your taste or budget and then you won’t have a holiday at all.

 Most people also find by booking early they save money as they steadily save or pay off their balance instead of having to pay a large sum of money straight away. You also have more time to plan for your holiday by buying all the necessary clothes, sun cream and travel goodies without panicking at the last minute that you don’t have everything. You will also have something to look forward to and that is always a boost when you might be feeling down during the cold winter months.

By booking early you can also ensure you can get the time off work. By getting your name down early you are guaranteeing your spot for when you want, not squeezed in the last couple of weeks when everyone else has already been away.

So to make sure booking hotels this year’s holiday goes without a hitch, book early and get the holiday you want, when you want it, for the price you want.

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Free Wifi Hotels Microsite Launched

Laptops, notebooks, mobile phones, iPads and iPods are just some of the ways people keep connected whilst on their travels. Whether on business or leisure travel people have a need to communicate with family, friends or colleagues and the internet is now the preferred choice of communication. Being able to pick up your work emails or upload your holiday pictures from the comfort of your hotel room is a major plus to travellers and many hoteliers now realise this and have started to react.

Hoteliers recognise that WiFi is on its way to becoming a basic requirement for most travellers and many have moved to offer it for free in order to gain a competitive advantage over their competitors.  This has led to a “domino effect” as more and more hotels follow suit in order to not be left behind by their competitors. Madrid and Barcelona are good examples of this as many of the hotels in the two cities now offer free WiFi.

Here at hotelbook.com we have launched a new microsite that promotes hotels offering a free WiFi service either in the hotel rooms or in the public lobbies. This will make it easier for you to identify and make reservations at hotels with complimentary wireless internet  access. To book a free WiFi hotel with hotelbook.com look out for the WiFi icon on the hotel page.

Book a hotel with free WiFi today!

Haneda Airport Goes International

Japan’s Haneda Airport is set to open up for international flights in a move that is set to make it Asia’s top choice travel hub.  As Japan’s busiest airport Haneda is located just 20 minutes away from downtown Tokyo making it a more convenient airport for travellers than Narita Airport. 

The opening of the new international terminal at the airport is set to attract an influx of international travellers to the city. Luckily, Tokyo is full of great hotels to stay in, below is a few accommodations which are ideal for the international traveller. 

Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu - Located inside Haneda airport, the hotel is great for overnight stop over stays whilst you wait for your next flight. The service at the hotel is exceptional and classy making it an ideal airport hotel. 

Rates start from 16740 JPY / $205 pn

Laforet Hotel Tokyo– Located in the centre of Tokyo, Laforet Hotel is an excellent choice for both the business and leisure traveller. Nearby points of interest include Tokyo Towers, the aquariums and the head office of Sony.

Rates start from 14000 JPY / $171 pn

Dai Ichi Tokyo Seafort – Warm and welcoming hotel providing friendly Tokyo hospitality.  Rooms are spacious and clean. The hotel is positioned in a more quiet part of Tokyo in Tennoz Isle and provides panoramic views of Tokyo Bay.

Rates start from 11400 JPY / $139 pn

The published rates are per room per night, are correct at the 20th October 2010 for selected stays in October 2010 and are subject to availability and may change at any time.

 

Must visit attractions in Zurich, Switzerland

 

Switzerland’s largest city Zurich is famous for being one of the world’s leading financial centres with its vast array of banks.  The city however has a lot more to offer with many historic and cultural places of interest. Zurich also has a growing reputation for being a shopper’s paradise and has a thriving nightlife amoungst other things. Below we have listed our top 5 must visit attractions in the city.

Top 5 attractions in Zurich

Grossmunster (Great Church) – One of Zurich’s most recognisable symbols the buildings twin towers provide an empowering sight in the city. The history of the building dates back to the 12th Century. One of the buildings highlights is the statue of its founder Charlemagne which is located in the crypt.

Fraumunster - A beautiful church enriched with history, the church was built in 853 and is placed on the left shore of Limmet River just opposite Grossmunster. The church is famous for its coloured windows by Marc Chagall and Alberto Giaccometti.

Bahnhofstrasse – The main shopping street in Zurich, Bahnofstrasse is full of high fashion designer and brand stores. Exclusive boutiques, jewellers, restaurants and cafes can also be found along this chic avenue.
 
Rhine Falls – The largest and most powerful waterfall in Europe, Rhine Falls is an amazing sight and a magnificent natural wonder. The best view of Rhine Falls can be found on the terraces of Schloss Laufen Castle.

Kunsthaus Zurich (Musuem of Art) – Kunsthaus Zurich is popular with art fans. As one of Europes most important art museums it holds an impressive collection of Western art from the middle ages to the modern day.

Book a hotel in Zurich     View our Zurich travel guide

Madrid airport hotels for stopovers - Free shuttle to a hotel anyone?

 

 Madrid Barajas Airport is a great international hub airport to stop over on your travels. Whether you are travelling from the UK to South America or to or from any other worldwide destination why not stop in Madrid for a day or two to experience the beauty of the Spanish capital.  Below are two airport hotel minutes away from Madrid Barajas Airport which would be ideal for a short stay.

Axor Feria Hotel - Next to Madrid Barajas Airport and the IFEMA exhibition centre. The hotel offers free wifi and a free shuttle service to and from the airport making it the ideal airport hotel to stay in on your travels. More info 

Axor Barajas Hotel - Elegant hotel with a modern design, the hotel provides free wifi and is ideal for business travellers.  217 modern rooms are available to book and the hotel provides a free shuttle service to and from the airport. More info

Hotelbook Tip: If you have spare time jump on the metro to Madrid city centre for some sightseeing. Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol and the Gran Via are all within walking distance from the city centre.

View more European airport hotels

Oktoberfest 2010 – Music, Culture and Beer

Book your Munich hotel well in advance for this year’s Oktoberfest or as the locals call it “die Wiesn”. 2010 promises the biggest Oktoberfest ever with over six million people predicted to attend. Starting on September 18th, it celebrates the October 12th marriage of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig to the Saxon-Hildburghausen Princess Therese. The festivities will carry on for 16 days before coming to a close on 3rd October.

Highlights as always include the Oktoberfest Costume and Riflemen’s Parade, the Parade of Oktoberfest Landlords and Breweries, the Official Tapping of the Keg and the Oktoberfest Mass. Hotel reservations are still available in Munich, Germany for this year’s Oktoberfest. Below is our top 3 recommended hotels.

Platzl Hotel, Munich, Germany – The hotel is ideally located a few minutes from the Marienplatz. Recently refurbished all 167 rooms showcase a mix of elegance and Bavarian design. Breakfast is served every morning and the helpful staff make the stay a pleasant experience.

Citadines Munich Arnulfpark Hotel, Munich, Germany – Located in Arnulfpark the hotel provides the perfect accommodation for this year’s Oktoberfest. The property is a 15 minutes’ walk from Marienplatz the shopping hub of Munich, its 146 rooms are well maintained with modern amenities.

Golden Leaf Hotel Perlach Allee, Munich, Germany - The hotel's ideal location allows you to travel to the city centre in 15 minutes with the underground. Guests will enjoy Munich’s offerings such as the theatres, cafés, local Bavarian beer gardens, castles and fashionable shopping stores.

We have a host of Munich hotels providing ideal accommodation for Oktoberfest on hotelbook.com, view them all on Hotels in Munich.

GREATRATE Summer Sale is now ON!

Save up to 60% off hotel rates this summer by booking one of our GREATRATE hotels on hotelbook.com. We have 2000+ GREATRATE hotels on hotelbook and this number is increasing by the day. Booking a hotel with a GREATRATE ensures you make massive savings on your next hotel booking. All our GREATRATE hotels come with inclusive breakfast, take advantage of GREATRATE by booking into a participating hotel for 2 nights or more.

Here are some of our top choice GREATRATE hotels 

De La Ville Hotel, Florence, Italy – Luxurious and famous landmark in Florence. The De La Ville Hotel has a central position for fans of arts and history, near museums and historic monuments. Its friendly staff and the hotel's charm will ensure you enjoy your stay. Rates start from 134€

Habana Libre Beach Resort, Miami Beach - Providing style and comfort to South Beach. Modern rooms, popular outdoor pool and a rooftop sauna always go down well with guests. Continental and American breakfast is served everyday at the Casanova Restaurant. Rates start from $95

Silken Park Hotel San Jorge, Playa De Aro, Spain - Overlooking the sea the hotel gives guests wonderful views of the coastline. Sandy beaches, golf courses, outdoor and indoor pools, many bars, several restaurants are some of the attractions of the hotel and its location. Rates start from 121€

With over 2000+ hotels participating with GREATRATE you can be sure the right hotel is available for you to book.To book a hotel with GREATRATE make sure you book a stay for 2 nights or more, all our GREATRATE hotels offer inclusive breakfast.

Click here to visit our GREATRATE page on hotelbook

The published rates are per room per night, are correct at the 7th July 2010 for selected stays in August 2010 and are subject to availability and may change at any time.

 

Experience the beauty of the changing seasons in Japan’s National Parks

 
Japan is a country of contrasts, where the fast paced, hi-tech cities nestle side by side with areas of outstanding natural beauty.

Now is a perfect time to visit the National Parks of Japan to witness first-hand the changing of the seasons. The Autumn leaves spectacular attracts hordes of both Japanese and international tourists each year.

With so many wonderful parks to fit into a trip, we’ve picked our top 3 from the Japanese NTO’s suggestions to give you a flavour of what you can expect.

Lake Chuzenji-ko, Tochigi (3 hours north of Tokyo)
The highest lake in Japan offers a fantastic starting point for an Autumn nature tour. The banks of the Lake are teeming with Beech, Lacquer and Maple trees now bursting forth with a cacophony of red and orange hues. 
Visit late Sept. - early Nov.

Jingo-ji Temple, Kyoto
Standing on the hillside of Mount Takao-san, to the north-west of Kyoto, Jingo-ji Temple is another superb spot to see Autumn leaves at their best in Japan. Climb the steps for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Kiyotaki-gawa river valley dressed in its Autumn finery.
Visit mid to late Nov.

Momijidani-koen Park, Hiroshima 
The name Momijidani actually means "valley of Autumn leaves". This natural monument is situated just outside a medieval forest where magnificent maple trees of various varieties show-off their autumn splendour.
Visit early - mid Nov.

Stay independent in Japan with hotelbook.com
When you're done visiting the natural wonders of Japan, you'll need somewhere to stay. Here's our pick of hotels in Japan to complete your trip in style.

Kyoto Brighton Hotel
5* Kyoto Hotel from 20700 JPY ($231/£145)
Renowned for a delicate combination of five-star British elegance with unrivalled Japanese service.

Cross Hotel Osaka
4* Osaka Hotel from 15500 JPY ($173/£108)
A contemporary designed hotel suitable for both business and leisure travel.

Tokyu Inn Shinbashi Atagoyama
3* Tokyo Hotel from 11520 JPY ($128/£80)
Surrounded by historic temples yet within easy reach of the business district.

Century Southern Tower Hotel
4* Tokyo Hotel from 16920 JPY ($189/£118)
Offering a luxurious escape from the city below, this hotel is located in the heart of Shinjuku.

Dai Ichi Hotel Annex
4* Tokyo Hotel from 15000 JPY ($167/£105)
Its convenient and central location for transport links, makes this hotel a perfect base in Tokyo.

Looking for something different? See all hotels in Japan for more inspiration.

Please note: Rates are per room per night for 2 people sharing for selected stays in October and November 2009. Rates are correct at the 6th October 2009 and are subject to availability and may change at any time.