|
|
|
Last Updated: Jul 2nd, 2008 - 21:15:22 |
(ARA) - It's the New Year, and for many Americans that means a new bank of vacation days and the promise of an unforgettable vacation in the months to come. So, tired of sifting through the overwhelming number of vacation brochures on your kitchen table? The Orbitz Insider is naming seven new hotspots in 2007-- for every traveler from adventure seekers to history buffs -- to make your decision easier.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Continuing its remarkable comeback after hurricane Katrina, New Orleans is bustling and thriving once again. Events are plentiful in New Orleans in 2007 as the city welcomes travelers back for events like its always-outlandish Mardi Gras celebration in February and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in April. In addition to these staple events, the French Quarter Festival, also in April, gives travelers yet another reason to stroll down Bourbon Street, with music on 14 stages and booths full of famous Cajun cuisine.
Jamestown, Virginia
“Olde” is new again at Jamestown, the first English settlement in the United States. This year marks the 400th anniversary of this historic town. As part of the celebration there will be events throughout 2007, including America’s Anniversary Weekend Celebration, May 11-13. From concerts to children’s events and fireworks, this town and event make for the perfect educational and fun family vacation. History buffs can explore life-size re-creations of the colonists' fort, a Powhatan Native American village and three replicas of the ships which sailed from England to Virginia bringing settlers to the United States.
Alaska – Via Cruise Ship
Our countrymen to the far North have it all -- wildlife, glaciers, mountains, and even luxury if you choose to see it all on a cruise. Cruising is one of the fastest growing segments of the travel industry -- and cruising Alaska you can see whales, fjords, and maybe some Grizzly bears all in one day. Cruisers can also leave the ship for some serious adventure excursions like helicopter touring, glacier trekking and sea kayaking, where you can get up-close and personal with Alaska’s extreme -- and extremely beautiful -- landscape. Keep in mind as you plan that the Alaskan cruise season only runs from May to September and booking far in advance is highly recommended.
San Juan Islands, Washington
Since 2005, 12.6 million people have started kayaking according to the Outdoor Industry Association. This growth has spurred great interest in travel to places like the San Juan Islands, a known sea kayaking hotspot. Located about an hour and a half north of Seattle, kayakers from novice to expert can explore the San Juan Islands’ beautiful landscape and wildlife, which includes Orca whales, seals and a variety of birds. For adventurers that just can’t get enough of the water, the San Juan Islands also boast outstanding scuba diving as well as fishing and sailing.
Valencia, Spain
Located on the Mediterranean coast of Spain, Valencia is a history rich city on the rise. With roots dating back to 138 BC, the architecture of this seaside city is not to be missed. In 2007, Valencia will be host to the 32nd Annual America’s Cup final, the most renowned sailing competition in the world. Known for its excellent sailing conditions, the finals in Valencia will be held between June 23 and July 7. And not only can you watch this year, you can actually learn to sail yourself. People from nine years old and up will have the opportunity to learn how to sail in the same environment as the America’s Cup sailors.
Krakow, Poland
Often referred to as the “new Prague,” Krakow is considered the cultural center of Poland. Krakow is known for its museums and its extremely well-preserved architecture, including castles and cathedrals dating back to the Medieval and Renaissance periods. This city also has a vibrant social scene, with one of its most notable events being Carnival -- a two-month non-stop party in January and February with events at restaurants and nightclubs throughout the city. If you can’t make it for Carnival, other festivals are held throughout the year, giving travelers many chances to celebrate with the locals no matter the season.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Travel to Ho Chi Minh City in 2007 and get a glimpse of a country on the verge of opening up to the world. Ho Chi Minh City blends modern day Vietnam’s upscale restaurants and entertainment, with traditional Vietnamese street markets and sidewalk cafes. In the bustling metropolis there is the Ben Thanh Market, selling everything from flowers and seafood to fabrics and glassware. Travelers can also visit the Museum of Vietnamese History, featuring an extensive collection of Vietnamese antiquities. Ho Chi Minh City is also a great launch point to visit many beautiful beach destinations or the Mekong Delta, one of the richest agricultural areas of Vietnam.
|
© Copyright by Eveningsnews.com
Top of Page
|
|
|
|
