Rather than buying tickets and then trying to secure hotel accommodations, consider booking a sports package.

• Packages including transportation, accommodation, event tickets and additional entertainment are often a good value and certainly make it easy to attend. On site event hosts act as your local concierge. There's a range of add-ons like upgrades and private transfers to make it even more special.
• If you're looking for custom arrangements, we can help you sort out the details with our network of local partners and sporting event specialists.
• Tickets to regular season games as well as world class sporting events can be arranged.

• October 2-10th, 2010: Albuquerque...The New Mexico Balloon Festival is a treasured tradition and a world-renowned spectacle
• 2010 National Rodeo Finals, Las Vegas
• 2011 Rose Bowl Parade: Experience a festival of flowers and music now in its 122nd year on January 1, 2011 at 8:00 a.m
• BCS Championship game: January 7, 2010 in Glendale, Arizona
• 2011 Super Bowl, February 3-7, Arlington, Texas - Enjoy America's biggest sporting event complete with parties, festivals and entertainment.
• 2011 NBA All Star Game. Los Angeles, CA: The best players in the world - in one place, at one time.
• March 5-9, 2011: Experience Mardi Gras in New Orleans! The famous – perhaps notorious – annual Fat Tuesday festival.
• April 1-5, 2011: Final Four...College basketball at it's best. March Madness doesn't get any better than the Final Four.
• 2011 Masters Golf Tournament, April 4-10, Augusta, Georgia. Watch the world's greatest golfers compete for the Green Jacket. Flexible packages give you plenty of options for events and accommodation.
• The Kentucky Derby is run on the first Saturday in May - May 5-8th, 2011
• 2011 Calgary Stampede July 8-17th: The world famous Stampede, includes seats at the evening Grandstand Show and the famous Chuckwagon Races.
• 2012 Summer Games of the XXX Olympiad, July 26 - August 14, London, England - The ultimate in international sports, space is limited for high demand events and premium accommodation so pre-arrange early.

Here are some other  tips to reduce stress during travel.

• Get away long enough time to let go of your daily grind.  A week is recommended.
• Watch your time zones – too many time zones actually increase your stress on your body’s natural rhythms.
• Don’t over schedule your trip – Make sure you have quiet time each day.
• Be social – making new acquaintances has a restorative power.
• Enjoy physical activity – moderate exercise like swimming and walking are great energy boosters.

How sad that a third or us do not use all our vacation days!  Hopefully this will inspire you to take some time to better your health with travel.

Ready to research a trip?

Here is our network of travel destination sites for travel planning made easy!

Africa Tours | Alaska Tours | Antarctica Tours | Asia Tours | Atlas Cruises & Tours | Australia Tours | Canada Tours | Christmas Market Tours | England Tours | Escorted Family Vacations | Fall Foliage Tours | France Tours | Greece Tours | Hawaii Tours | Ireland Tours | Italy Tours | Luxury Tour | National Parks Tours | Oberammergau | River Cruise | Russia Tours | Scandinavia Tours | South America Tours | Spain Tours

English is a widely spoken and understood as a second or third language amongst many Western Europeans, particularly those of the younger generations.

Western European Language Basics

English	French	Spanish	Italian	German	Greek	Dutch
Good Morning	Bonjour	Buenos Dias	Buongiorno	Guten Morgen	Kalimera	Goedemorgen
Good Bye	Au revoir	Adios	Arrivederci	Auf Wiedersehen	Yasou	Tot ziens
Please	S’il vous plait	Por favor	Perfavore	Bitte	Parakalo	Alstublieft
Thank You	Merci	Gracias	Grazie	Danke Schon	Effaristo	Dank u
Yes	Oui	Si	Si	Ja	Ne	Ya
No	Non	No	No	Nein	Oki	Nee
Where is?	Ou est?	Donde ésta?	Dové	Wo ist?	Poo eeneh?	Waar is?
The toilet	Les toilettes	El lavabo	Il gabinetto	Die toilette	To oahlehtes	De toilet
The bank	La banque	Banco	Banca	Die bank	Trapeze	Bank
Post office	La poste	Correos	Ufficio postale	Die post	Takedromeo	Postkantoor
How much?	Combine?	Cunato?	Quanto?	Wieviel?	Posso?	hoeveel?
The bill	L’addition	La cuenta	Il conto	Die rechnung	To loghariazmo	rekening
Ladies	Dames	Enoras	Donne	Damen	Yinekon	Dames
Gents	Messieurs	Senores	Uomini	Herren	Anthron	Heren
Stamp	Timbre	Sello	Francobollo	Briefmarke	Grammatesimo	Stamp
One/two	Un/deux	Uno/due	Uno/due	Eins/zwei	Ena/thio	Een/twee
Three/four	Trios/quatre	Tres/cuarto	Tre/Quattro	Drei/vier	Tria/tesera	Drie/vier
Five/six	Cinq/six	Cinco/seis	Cinque/sei	Funf/sechs	Pende/eksi	Vijf/zes
Seven/eight	Sept/huit	Siete/ocho	Sette/otto	Sieben/acht	Epta/okta	Zeven/acht
Nine/ten	Neuf/dix	Nueve/diez	Nove/dieci	Neun/zehn	Enea/theka	Negen/tien
Open	Overt	Abierto	Aperto	Geoffnet	Anikton	Open
Closed	Fermé	Cerrado	Chiuso	Geschlossen	Kilson	Gesloten
Hot	Chaud	Caliente	Caldo	Heiss	Zesto	Hete
Cold	Froid	Frio	Freddo	Kalt	Krio	Koude
Water	Eau	Agua	Acqua	Wasser	Nero	Water
Tea	Thé	Té	Té	Tee	Chai	Thee
Coffee	Café	Café	Caffé	Kaffee	Kafe	Koffie
Beer	Biére	Cerveza	Birra	Bier	Bira	Bier
Wine	Vin	Vino	Vino	Wein	Krasi	Wijn
Excuse me (sorry)	Excusez-moi	Perdon	Scusi	Entschuldigung	Sygnomi	Sorry
Cheers	Santé	Salut	Saluté	Prost	Yamus	Proost

These Languages are of use in….

French – France, Southern Belgium (including Brussels) parts of Switzerland

Spanish – Spain (Spanish will be understood in most parts of Spain, however Catalan and Basque are spoken in Barcelona and the North of the country)

Italian – Italy, parts of Switzerland, Albania

German – Varying dialects throughout Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein

Greek – Greece

Dutch – Dialects throughout the Netherlands and Northern Belgium

Here is our network of Europe travel destination sites:

England Tours | Escorted Family Vacations | France Tours | Greece Tours| Ireland Tours | Italy Tours |  River Cruise | Russia Tours | Scandinavia Tours | Spain Tours

We also have specialty European Tour Operators sites:

Contiki Tours | Cosmos Tours |Gate 1 |General Tours | Globus Tours | Insight Tours | Tauck Tours | Trafalgar Tours

1. Balmoral Castle and Estate
   Take a tour around Balmoral Castle; a favourite summer residence of the Royal Family. As well as the castle, the estate itself covers 50,000 acres of heather clad hills and ancient Caledonian woodland.
2. Buckingham Palace
   No trip to London is complete without peering through the gates of Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of Britain's sovereign. If you visit during the summer you can tour the State Rooms.
3. Ceremony of the Keys
   Book ahead to watch the Ceremony of the Keys (the traditional locking-up of the Tower of London). It's happened every night for at least 700 years and is a fascinating piece of history to watch live in action.
4. Windsor Castle
   Windsor Castle is the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world, and one of the official residences of Her Majesty The Queen. The Castle's dramatic site encapsulates 900 years of British history. It covers an area of 26 acres and contains, as well as a royal palace, a magnificent chapel.
5. Changing the Guard
   The Changing the Guard ceremony takes place in front of Buckingham Palace at 11.30 every day in summer and every other day in winter. It's free to watch and provides a wonderful glimpse of British Royal pageantry.
6. Edinburgh Castle
   Explore this astonishing castle fortress which dominates Edinburgh's skyline from its position atop the volcanic Castle Rock. Home to the Honours of Scotland (Scottish Crown Jewels), there are centuries of royal history to discover here.
7. Hampton Court Palace
   Favourite stomping ground of the notorious King Henry VII, Hampton Court is the oldest Tudor palace in England and has endless attractions including the Tudor kitchens, its world-famous maze and the State and King's Apartments.
8. The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
   Explore 6 magnificent glasshouses, 300 acres of landscapes and 250 years of history at the world's most famous garden. Climb to the treetops, delve into rainforest or discover more on a guided tour of this famous World Heritage Site.
9. St Paul's Cathedral
   Sir Christopher Wren's iconic domed masterpiece in the centre of London has been the venue for numerous Royal occasions including the Golden Jubilee and 80th Birthday of Her Majesty the Queen and the marriage of Price Charles and Lady Diana.
10. Tower of London
    Spanning over 900 years of Royal history, the Tower of London has been a fortress, palace, prison, arsenal, garrison and menagerie! It houses the Crown Jewels, armouries, Yeoman Warders and the famous ravens making it must-see attraction.
11. Palace of Holyroodhouse
    Visit the Queen's official residence in Scotland. Situated at the end of the Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse has many connections with Scotland's turbulent past, including Mary, Queen of Scots, who lived there in the 16th century.
12. Royal Yacht Britannia
    All aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia! She's a beauty; a real floating palace. See the Queen's bedroom, the fabulous State Apartments, the crew's quarters and even the on-board garage housing one of Her Majesty's Rolls-Royces!
13. St Andrews University
    Travel to this ancient Scottish university where Prince William met his bride-to-be. A William and Kate Tour would have to include a peek from outside at their joint hall of residence, St Salvator's, with its views over the Bay of St Andrews.
14. Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace
    The Queen's Gallery at Buckingham Palace is a permanent space dedicated to changing exhibitions of items from the Royal Collection. See Royal treasures galore!
15. Victoria and Albert Museum
    Named after Queen Victoria and her husband, Albert, this spectacular museum is stuffed with treasures from all over the world. Don't miss the hoard of jewellery given to courtiers by Elizabeth I.
16. Wimbledon Tennis Championship
    The most famous tennis tournament in the world is always a favourite of the Royal Family. See players bow to the Royal box before games and receive winners' trophies from senior Royals.
17. Dover Castle
    Explore this historic fortress, built by Henry II, that has guarded Britain from invasion for nearly 900 years. It starred in the Other Boleyn Girl as the Tower of London.
18. Clarence House
    The engagement announcement was made from Clarence House, office of the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, where Kate and William gave their first joint interview. It opens for tours in summer.
19. Chelsea Flower Show
    The Queen loves this annual explosion of colour and always takes time out to visit before the first day of the show in May. Follow in her footsteps to see a riot of blooms and the very latest in garden design.
20. Regent's Park
    First used by Henry VIII as a hunting ground, this Royal Park is still a haven for rest and relaxation. Discover 410 acres of gardens, parkland, sports facilities, an open air theatre and more - all in the middle of London.
21. Royal Ascot
    There's always a good chance of spotting the Queen and Prince Phillip in a horse-drawn carriage during the Royal procession at this most glamorous of horse races. Her Majesty has owned 20 winners over the years.
22. Sandringham
    Sandringham is the much-loved country retreat of Her Majesty The Queen, and has been the private home of four generations of British monarchs since 1862. You can tour the estate in the spring and summer.
23. Trooping the Colour
    The Queen's official birthday, Trooping the Colour is the biggest royal event of the year with Her Majesty the Queen always in attendance. Stand along the Mall to catch a glimpse of the Queen in her carriage and soak up the pageantry.
24. Westminster Abbey
    Visit the place where monarchs are crowned and the venue for Prince William and Kate Middleton's wedding. It's a world Heritage Site and burial place of scores of famous Britons including Isaac Newton, Geoffrey Chaucer and Charles Darwin.
25. Anglesey
    The young Windsors have announced their intention to begin their married life near his RAF base in Wales, and will live on the island of Anglesey. The island has some of the most stunning beaches in Britain.
26. Royal Brighton Pavilion
    Tour this magnificent building, the favourite getaway of the Prince Regent later, King George IV. The Royal Pavilion is remarkable for its exotic oriental appearance both inside and out.
27. Colman's Mustard
    Eat like a King (or Queen) with Colman's Mustard, the official supplier of mustard to the Royal household. But be careful, Colman's is hot stuff!
28. Corfe Castle
    Explore this majestic ruin built by William I soon after his arrival in Britain in 1066. One of Britain's most romantic spots, it has a wonderful Royal history waiting to be discovered.
29. Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Walk
    Follow this Royal route that takes in four beautiful parks and the buildings and residences that Princess Diana made famous.
30. Gieves and Hawkes Tailors
    With three Royal Warrants and a tradition of expertise dating back to the 18th Century, Gieves and Hawkes is the most famous tailor on London's Savile Row. They provide clothes for State Ceremonies and fashionable attire for the discerning gentleman.
31. Royal Tunbridge Wells
    Explore this historic Spa Town that was granted a "Royal" title by King Edward VII to celebrate its popularity over the years amongst members of the Royal Family.
32. Rugby at Twickenham
    Prince William and Harry are keen rugby supporters and are often seen watching international matches at Twickenham. Mike Tindall, the husband-to-be of the Queen's granddaughter, Zara Philips, is also a professional player for England.
33. Hope Street, St Andrews
    See where Prince William and Kate Middleton shared a student house on Hope Street in St Andrews and then take a romantic stroll along the edge of the North Sea on West Sands.
34. St James's Park
    Right in the middle of Royal London, St James's Park is a relaxing green space blessed with great views of Buckingham Palace and Horse Guards Parade.
35. Stirling Castle
    See the story of the monarchy in Scotland unfold before your eyes at this majestic fortress that's been a royal stronghold, a regimental garrison and coronation site of several Scottish Kings and Queens including Mary, Queen of Scots, in 1543.
36. Syon House
    Syon House is the last surviving ducal residence complete with its country estate in Greater London. You'll spot several of its lavish interiors in the film the Madness of King George.
37. Thornbury Castle
    Stay in this luxurious castle that once entertained kings and queens - Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn once walked the rooms and grounds. You can even stay in a room where they slept!
38. Tintagel Castle
    Head to the wild and unspoiled cliffs of Tintagel to discover the mythical birthplace of King Arthur. Legend has it that this ancient king was born here and that the wizard Merlin lived in a cave nearby.
39. Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness
    Robert the Bruce controlled this key castle after he became King of Scots and today you'll get a real sense of Urquhart's strategic importance. With commanding views over Loch Ness it's also beautifully sited.
40. Wild Duck at Ewen
    Have a pint in this Gloucestershire pub frequented by Royals including Prince Harry. The story goes that Harry had a picture of Prince Charles removed from a wall overlooking his table as it put him off his food.
41. Royal Armouries Leeds
    Explore the United Kingdom's national collection of arms and armour at Leeds and the Tower of London. See terrifying weaponry from all over the world including dazzling Royal pieces used by British monarchs.
42. Royal Wedding Commemorative China
    Own a piece of history with an official piece of Royal Wedding China. The beautiful pieces, made in Britain's famous Stoke on Trent potteries, are on sale from The Royal Collection.
43. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
    Visit the world famous historic ships at the home of the Royal Navy. Go aboard HMS Victory, HMS Warrior and see the Mary Rose Museum for a great day out in the South of England.
44. Poundbury
    Visit the experimental urban village of Poundbury on the outskirts of Dorchester. It's built according to the principles of Prince Charles, who's known for holding strong views challenging the post-war trends in town planning.
45. Richmond Park
    Richmond Park is the largest open space in London and a designated Royal Park. Don't miss the famous fallow and red deer that have been roaming the park since King Charles I used it as his hunting ground.
46. Rock, Cornwall
    Sometimes known as "Chelsea-on-Sea", Rock is a famous seaside holiday resort in Cornwall and playground for the rich and famous. Needless to say, it's a favourite getaway destination for the younger royals.
47. Royal Albert Hall
    This distinctive building is recognised the world over. Opened by Queen Victoria in 1871, the Royal Albert Hall was named after her deceased husband Prince Albert. Each year it hosts more than 350 stage performances including the world famous Proms.
48. Royal Leamington Spa
    Leamington is best-known for its natural springs. Don't miss the magnificent Royal Pump Rooms and Baths which opened in 1814 attracting royal visitors hoping to soothe various ailments by bathing in the spa pools.
49. Eton College
    William attended Eton College, a ten-minute stroll over the Thames from Windsor Castle. The College, founded in 1440 by King Henry VI to provide free education for 70 poor scholars, conducts guided tours during the holidays.
50. Henley Royal Regatta
    Henley is a rowing event held every July on the River Thames by the town of Henley-on-Thames and is a highlight of the traditional English social calendar.
51. Fortnum and Mason
    Fortnum and Mason has had royal connections for over 300 years, since William Fortnum became a footman to Queen Anne. It holds two royal warrants and is renowned for the quality of its tea and its tail-coated shop assistants.
52. Frogmore House
    Set in Windsor's Home Park, Frogmore House is renowned for its beautiful landscaped garden and 18th-century lake and is where Queen Victoria is buried.
53. Green Park
    The Green Park as it is known, is one of eight Royal Parks, and was first recorded in 1554 as the place where a rebellion took place against the marriage of Mary I to Philip II of Spain.
54. Greenwich Park
    Greenwich Park is probably the oldest of the Royal Parks, first recorded in 1427, and part of the Greenwich World Heritage Site, home to the Meridian Line and Old Royal Observatory.
55. Haddon Hall
    Haddon Hall is probably the finest example of a fortified medieval manor house in existence. Recently it has become a favourite film location, including being the backdrop for the film "Elizabeth".
56. Hebridean Princess
    The Hebridean Princess has been hired by the Queen for her annual cruise round the Western Isles. See the Highlands and islands of Scotland from the luxurious comfort of the ship, which carries just 50 guests.
57. Highgrove Shop
    The Highgrove Shops in Tetbury and Bath, sell exclusive branded gifts for the home and garden inspired by The Prince of Wales's estate.
58. Hollow Bottom
    The Hollow Bottom at Guiting Power, in the Cotswolds is a 17th-century pub run by a consortium of jockeys, and is a favourite with Prince William's cousin Zara Phillips and friends.
59. Household Cavalry Museum
    The Household Cavalry Museum is a living museum about real people doing a real job in a real place. You can see troopers working with horses in the original 18th-century stables and hear first-hand accounts of their rigorous and demanding training.
60. Inverlochy Castle
    Nestling in the foothills of Ben Nevis, Inverlochy Castle sits amidst some of Scotland's finest scenery - and you can stay there! Visiting in 1873, Queen Victoria spent a week sketching and painting and wrote 'I never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot'.
61. Jigsaw
    Kate Middleton worked in the Kew branch of the popular British boutique chain, Jigsaw. Their flagship store is at 126-7 New Bond Street, designed 15 years ago by the super-minimal architect John Pawson.
62. Garrard & Co
    On Albemarle Street you'll find Garrard & Co, which claims to be the oldest jewellers in the world and was the source of Kate Middleton's famous sapphire and diamond engagement ring previously Princess Diana's.
63. John Lobb Bootmaker
    Walk like a Royal and get your shoes made at this wonderful old boot maker, holder of a Royal Warrant since 1863.
64. Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden
    This vast medieval fortress which became an Elizabethan palace is one of Britain's largest and has connections with many monarchs, especially Queen Elizabeth I, who visited her favourite, Robert Dudley while he lived there.
65. Kensington Palace
    This was a favourite residence of successive sovereigns until 1760. It was also the birthplace and childhood home of Queen Victoria. Today Kensington Palace accommodates the offices and private apartments of a number of members of the Royal Family.
66. Kensington Gardens
    Now a Royal Park, Kensington Gardens were once the private gardens of Kensington Palace. Remodelled by successive royals, today's gardens can be attributed to Queen Caroline, wife of King George II.
67. Leeds Castle
    Near Maidstone in Kent, Leeds Castle is set in 500 acres of beautiful parkland and gardens, and is the result of 900 years of alterations and changes. It was a royal palace to the medieval and Tudor kings and queens of England.
68. London Eye
    They say that on a clear day you can see around 40kms/25 miles from the top of The London Eye - as far as Windsor Castle in fact. So a perfect place to check out the Royal Wedding route.
69. London nightclubs
    Kate and William's favourite clubs have included Boujis, in South Kensington, the tropical ambience of Mahiki in Mayfair and Whisky Mist off Park Lane.
70. Madame Tussauds
    Visit Madame Tussauds to see waxworks of Princes William and Harry, the Prince of Wales and the Queen.
71. The Mall
    Designed as a processional route from Admiralty Arch to Buckingham Palace The Mall has been packed with crowds on many memorable occasions and "balcony moments". It is frequently lined with colourful flags from around the world.
72. Marlborough
    Kate Middleton went to school in the beautiful Wiltshire Downs, at prestigious public (private) school, Marlborough College. The school is not open to the public, but the town itself is pretty with two excellent tea-rooms.
73. National Portrait Gallery
    To mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in 2012, the National Portrait Gallery will bring together 60 images of Elizabeth II spanning the 60 years of her reign - some on public display for the first time.
74. Notting Hill, London, England
    Remember little William in his red school tie, being dropped by his Mum at Wetherby School in Notting Hill, London? On Saturdays make your way here to Portobello Road Market for antiques, vintage and posh food.
75. Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich
    Originally established by Royal Charter in 1694 for the relief and support of seamen and their dependants, and planned by Sir Christopher Wren, the Old Royal Naval College later housed the Royal Naval College.
76. Open top bus tour, London
    Check out the top royal locations in London with an open top bus tour. Hop on and hop off at palaces, squares, museums and galleries en route.
77. Osborne House
    "It is impossible to imagine a prettier spot" wrote Queen Victoria after her first visit to this Isle of Wight seaside palace where she lived with her beloved Prince Albert and their nine children.
78. Patey Hats
    Top hats, bowler hats, polo caps, and hats for shows including Evita, and Les Miserables: Royal warrant holders Patey have been making hats of all types for over 200 years.
79. Penrhyn Castle
    Located between Snowdonia and the Isle of Anglesey, this enormous 19th-century neo-Norman castle is crammed with fascinating items, such as a one-ton slate bed made for Queen Victoria.
80. Penshurst Place
    Once belonging to Henry VIII, Penshurst was used as a filming location for "The Other Boleyn Girl" (about the rivalry of Anne Boleyn, who became Henry's second wife, and her sister Mary).
81. Chillingham Castle
    Once 'base-camp' for the 1298 conquering attack on William Wallace ("Braveheart") by King Edward 1, today it is visited as one of the most haunted stately homes in Britain.
82. Chiswick
    Kate Middleton briefly rowed with a crew called The Sisterhood who practised on the Thames between Chiswick and Hammersmith. Chiswick is also one of London's prettiest riverside suburbs, while nearby Hammersmith is famous for its gorgeous riverside pubs.
83. Cirencester Polo Club
    Princes William and Harry love polo and regularly play at the club in the Cotswolds, the most historic in Britain.
84. 1066 Battle of Hastings: Abbey & Battlefield
    Discover the birthplace of English history, where the infamous Battle of Hastings was fought between William Duke of Normandy and the Saxon King Harold in 1066. The quaint town of Battle now stands where William the Conqueror built a great Abbey following his victory.
85. Airth Castle
    Be King or Queen for the night with a stay at Airth Castle Hotel. Tucked away in the Scottish Heartlands on William the Conqueror's old stomping grounds, the 17th-century castle is framed with traditional turrets and surrounded by perfectly manicured grounds.
86. Albert Memorial
    Recently repaired in a conservation project by English Heritage, this gleaming gold statue memorial was commissioned by Queen Victoria following the death of her beloved husband, Prince Albert.
87. Amberley Castle
    Built in 1100, the castle has been visited by many royals including Henry VIII and Elizabeth II. Set in West Sussex and briefly owned by the Duke of Norfolk, the castle is now houses a luxury hotel.
88. Arundel Castle
    This spectacular castle is the current home of the Duke and Duchess of Norfolk, but is open to visitors year-round. It has been featured in many films, including Young Victoria and The Madness of King George.
89. Asprey
    With locations in 2 of London's most fashionable neighbourhoods, Asprey holds a Royal Warrant bestowed by Queen Victoria in 1862 and is a premier British maker of luxury goods including leather, jewellery, china, and glass.
90. Aston Villa Football Club
    Make sure to dress in claret and blue for the trip to Aston Villa in Birmingham to cheer on Prince William's favourite team in Barclays Premier League.
91. Banqueting House Whitehall
    The only remaining structure after Whitehall Palace burned in 1698, Banqueting House has been the backdrop for major events in British Royal history including the beheading of Charles I!
92. Beaufort Polo Club
    Head to the Cotswolds for a good gallop at the polo club that has been patronised by Prince Charles since it opened in 1989 and where Prince William and Prince Harry play regularly.
93. Beaumaris
    Nestled on the banks of the Menai Strait, the historic town of Beaumaris on the Isle of Anglesey is nearby the cottage Prince William and his soon-to-be bride share together.
94. Borthwick Castle
    Find this twin-towered fortress in the rolling green hills of Scotland. Steeped in history, the castle is said to be haunted by a servant girl from the time of Lord Bothwick, who hosted Mary Queen of Scots on her honeymoon.
95. Braemar Gathering
    Her Majesty the Queen is patron of the Highland Games in Braemar (the Braemar Gathering). The celebration is loud and boisterous, featuring traditional Highland dancing and sports competitions (and the requisite bagpiping!).
96. Caernarfon Castle
    Towering above this pre-Roman town's picturesque harbour, the medieval fortress at Caernarfon was built by Edward I and offers beautiful views of the Menai Strait, the Isle of Anglesey and the Irish Sea beyond.
97. Carisbrooke Castle
    Best known as the site where Charles I was imprisoned, this beautifully-preserved stone castle was built in 1100. While there, catch a daily demonstration by the Carisbrooke donkeys, which still operate the tread wheel in the Elizabethan wheelhouse.
98. Royal Variety Performance
    Get tickets for this fantastic annual event where you can see Britain's top musicians, comedians and variety performers. Every year the senior royals watch the show which supports charities around Britain.
99. Royal Botanical Gardens Edinburgh
    Just one mile from city centre, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh offers visitors peace and tranquillity amongst 72 acres of stunning scenery. Founded in 1670, the Garden is acknowledged to be one of the finest in the world.
100. Castell Coch
     Step into the pages of a fairytale with a visit to Castell Coch. This Gothic Revival castle is nothing less than magical; the perfect setting to image William and Kate's "happily ever after"...

Each period of England's past, has made an indelible imprint on the capital city. Yet even while embracing its history, London is a forward-looking, modern city. Witness sensational views from the Millennium London Eye, which joins Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London and the Houses of Parliament as world-recognized icons of this rich in history city.

The renowned National History Museum and British Museum houses some of the world's finest and most varied collections of art and artifacts. While dozens of art galleries exhibit the most recent works by emerging artists, and if contemporary art is your thing, the Tate Modern is the best in Europe.

Get up to Camden Town for Europe's biggest street market. As you go, grab the ingredients for a picnic. Stroll along the eastern side of Regent's Park, take in the zoo if you please, or watch one of the countless football, cricket or baseball games. Climb up to lofty Primrose Hill and pick a picnic spot, with the whole of London spread out before you.

Absorb the London lifestyle in and around Covent Garden. Wander Neal Street (don't miss the cheese shop in Neal's Yard) and Floral Street where Paul Smith sets the tone. After a busy morning of shopping visit St Martin-in-the-Fields-London's most loved parish church - a masterpiece by James Gibbs. Refresh your spirit and step inside at lunchtime for a Bach or Mozart recital.

After lunch, Stop at venerable Harrods of course, but then hotfoot it over to Canarby Street for trendy boutiques, loose yourself in the numerous flagship stores on the world's famous Oxford Street before hopping on a short tube ride to London's Westfield Shopping centre where Hackett London, Burberry, Louis Vuitton and many other designers maintain retail space here.

Explore the heart of London's West- End-Leicester Square which never sleeps. By day, experience the atmosphere, sights and sounds of true London and by night, treat yourself to one of London's illustrious musicals and experience a night you will never forget. If you're more the "premier" type catch the latest movies and witness iconic stars walk down the celebrated red carpet. If you are more lured by London's nightlife, a profusion of cutting edge clubs and stylish bars in Piccadilly Circus assure a high "hip" factor.

For the quintessential Covent Garden rendezvous, a stay at the newly transformed Radisson Edwardian Mercer Street is a must. A boutique beauty in Covent Garden's hidden village. This is a chic retreat on the doorstep of London's most celebrated theatres, its beautifully designed rooms equipped with next-generation technology. Opening in Spring 2011, Be one of the first guests and make your trip to London, one to remember!

Alternatively, the ever popular O2 Arena is just the place to be if you're heading to see a superstar in-concert during your stay in London. Not surprisingly, London, balancing old and new with ease, is regarded as one of the world's most intriguing cities.

One of the most frequently asked questions we are asked that pertains to fall foliage travel, is "When is the Best Time to see the changing of the leaves?" 

Witness the magnificent Fall Foliage of New England, starting in Boston and then traveling along Maine's rocky coast to Portland. Enjoy time in Bar Harbor on Mount Desert Island, picturesque Acadia National Park, and feast at a traditional Maine lobster bake. More stops in New Hampshire, Vermont and Connecticut will add to your unforgettable journey.

See oranges, yellows, reds, purples and browns burst into bloom in the autumn, painting a colorful backdrop to the white steeped villages of New England, the dramatic seascapes of Maritime Canada and the magnificent Rocky Mountains.

Keep in mind, fall colors can be affected by wind, temperature and moisture. Mother nature can be unpredictable, so try to make your trip for other sites & events around New England, as well as the changing of the leaves. The peak travel season is typically mid-September to early October. We normally suggest after September 23rd through mid-October. Peak fall foliage in New England works its way down from the north. The further north you go, the earlier the peak. Many popular tour itineraries include Vermont, New Hampshire (Kancamagus Scenic Highway) and Massachusetts (the Mohawk Trail.) 

Choose from various fall foliage tours, rail vacations and cruise itineraries to gain the full experience of what New England has to offer. As the season nears, there are many "Hotlines" to get up to date information on the changing of the season. Tauck has a foliologist/naturalist that gives updates on their hotline: 800-214-8209 starting in early September.

If you only have 1 hour to visit, you have time to see the Crown Jewels, pay a visit to the White Tower built by William the Conqueror, which today houses displays from the Royal Armories' collection and walk through surprisingly rich colors and comfortable furnishings of the Medieval Palace. If you can stay for 2 hours, join one of the famous Yeoman Warder tours and hear exciting tales from the Tower's past, and then follow the route above. If you're not in a rush, other things to see and do include enjoying lunch in the New Armories' Restaurant and visiting the Traitors' Gate.You can also take an audio tour. Personal interaction makes it an awesome experience, and you can choose five different tours about the Medieval Palace, imprisonment, executions, the dazzling Crown Jewels or learn about what it's like to live in the Tower today.

The hours of operation for the Tower of London vary throughout the year.  In the summer, March 1 through October 31, the hours are Tuesday-Saturday 9:00-17:30 and Sunday-Monday 10:00-17:30 with the last admission at 17:00. During the winter, the Tower of London is open through November 1 to February 28 on Tuesday-Saturday 9:00-16:30, and Sunday-Monday 10:00-16:30 with the last admission at 16:00. If you are interested in a tour, the last Yeoman Warder tour starts at 14:30 (winter), and 15:30 (summer). All the internal buildings close 30 minutes after the last admission. The Tower is closed on December 24-26 and January 1. It is always recommended that visitors allow at least 2-3 hours. During busy times, lines, (known as queues in London,) are likely to form within the Tower. Also, if visiting during school holidays or in the summer, more time may be needed for your visit to allow for a thorough exploration of the Tower.

The cost of admission for visits through March 1, 2009 and February 28, 2010 is £17.00 per adult and £9.50 children ages 6 through 16. Children under the age of 5 are free of charge, and the Tower strictly enforces that they must be accompanied by an adult at all times. You may book by telephone, in person, and most conveniently online.

Visit and discover for yourself some of the Tower's sights, stories, and most importantly its history.  For more on traveling to London and things to do while you are there, visit this website dedicated to Britain travel.

S Brage http://www.atlastravelweb.com

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The first tattoo, called “Something About A Soldier” was performed at the Ross Bandstand in Edinburgh in 1949. The first official Military Tattoo, however, started in 1950 with only eight items in the program. It was done at the Edinburgh Castle, and brought nearly 6,000 people in to watch. In 1952, the stands were upgraded to allow an audience of to 7,700. This allowed up to 160,000 people to view the live performances each year.

Presently, on average, over 217,000 people come to see the Tattoo live yearly on the esplanade of the castle. For the last decade, the tickets have sold out in advance. The Tattoo performs every night of the week, and twice on Saturday all through August, and to this day has never been cancelled due to weather. There aren’t any performances on Sundays. Every performance has Pyrotechnics, but the second Saturday showing includes a fireworks display. 100 million people watch the performance every year on television, and it is broadcast in 30 different countries.

Many different groups have performed at the Tattoo over the years, including African tribes and international military regiments. The Band of the Royal Netherlands Grenadiers were the first regiment outside the UK to take part in 1952. A ‘lead’ service performs each year, alternating between the Royal Air Force, the Royal Navy, the British Army, and the Royal Marines.

The Tattoo also performs in order to generate money to donate to charities. Over the years, they have given over €5 million to numerous charities. Charities that the Tattoo support includes any that help people with disabilities, homelessness, poverty, and unemployment. Some of the charities that benefit from the help of the Tattoo include the RAF Benevolent Fund, the Army Benevolent Fund, and Seafarers UK. The Princess Royal, Princess Anne, is the official patron of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

This year, the Tattoo will be performing from August 5th to August 27th. On Friday, August 5th, the performance will begin at 8:30 pm. Otherwise, the performances will take place Monday through Friday at 9:00 pm. Saturday performances will be at 7:30 pm for the first, and 10:30 pm for the second. There are four different ways to book tickets to attend the Tattoo: postal bookings, over the counter, Internet bookings, and over the telephone. For telephone and Internet reservations, there will be a €4.00 fee for each transaction completed. Internet and telephone reservations will not be accepted on the day of the performance. Depending on the seating you want, ticket prices range from €25 to €55. An extra €3.00 will be added for the Saturday 10:30 pm performance due to the fireworks display.

Why not book your Europe tour for 2012 that includes the Edinburgh Military Tattoo and take advantage of early booking deals where you save 10%?

Globus Tours 2012   Trafalgar Tours 2012    Insight tours 2012

One of the most popular ways to spend the day is to follow the Freedom Trail, a 2.5 mile that takes in much of Boston’s history. The trail begins at Faneuil Hall and goes to Boston Common, America’s oldest park.

Other popular attractions in Boston include Newbury Street, Copley Square, the New England Aquarium or the Boston Duck Tours.  The duck tours combine the best of Boston with a cruise along the Charles river for breathtaking views of Boston and Cambridge.

If you prefer to spend several days in Boston, rather than a cruise, Globus Monograms offers a 4 day package of Boston that includes a Go Boston Card for free admission to over 70 attractions. You can access last minute hotel deals  on our web site, or consider a Fall Foliage self-driving or escorted tour also that include Boston in the itinerary.

For more Tours of the United States: http://www.atlastravelweb.com/tours.shtml

What a Stress Free, Hassle Free way to travel to Europe? 

Leave all of the travel details to a tour operator. They provide you with comfortable transportation, several meals, a rich sightseeing program and much more.

Traveling can be stressful, especially if you are traveling to a country where English is not their first language. Something amazing happens when you feel comfortable.  Your senses have the luxury to stray from the detail and worry, finding in their place anticipation and wonder.  You'll feel comfortable staying in first class hotels located in clean, safe areas.

Save time and money. Spending hours in line to get into major attractions such as the Louvre or Vatican Museums can take all day. Groups have a separate entrance, and get to go in with little or no wait so that you have more time to enjoy the sites, and more free time in the city.

Nothing introduces you to the true flavors of your destination like fine local cuisine.  Included three course dinners are carefully planned to avoid the repetition of entrees.  From the tapas bars of Spain to the vineyards of Italy and France, the tour operator will include on your trip optional specialty dinners and plenty of free time to venture out on your own. For the evenings when dinners are not included, your tour director will have a number of suggestions for favorite nearby restaurants. After all, one of the best ways to learn about a foreign culture is to eat like the local do!

The tour buses are air conditioned are are equipped with emergency washrooms.  The bus normally accommodates 53 seats, but they install fewer seats (44) for extra leg room.

If buses are not for you, tour operators have many other options including city stays, rail packages and river cruises through Europe.

There are hundreds of tour operators you can choose from, however some have been in the business for over 50 years and have proven over time that they offer consumers the best value and service. Check with a travel agent if you need assistance finding a reputable operator.

Here is our network of Europe travel destination sites:

| England Tours | France Tours | Greece Tours| Ireland Tours | Italy Tours | River Cruise | Russia Tours | Scandinavia Tours | Spain Tours

We also have specialty European Tour Operators sites:

Contiki Tours | Cosmos Tours | General Tours| Gate 1| Globus Tours | Insight Tours | Tauck Tours | Trafalgar Tours

The thrill and excitement of attending a world class sporting event is unsurpassed. This is more than a vacation – it’s the opportunity of a lifetime!

Packages that include transportation, accommodation, event tickets and additional entertainment are often good value and certainly make it easy to attend. On site event hosts act as your local concierge. There’s a range of add-ons like upgrades and private transfers to make it even more special.

• If you’re looking for custom arrangements, we can help you sort out the details with our network of local partners and sporting event specialists.
• Tickets to regular season games as well as world class sporting events can be arranged.

These are just a few examples of upcoming events you can attend:

• 2010 National Rodeo Finals, Las Vegas Dec 2-11th, 2010
• 2011 Rose Bowl Packages for Parade & Game:  Experience a festival of flowers and music now in its 122nd year on January 1, 2011 at 8:00 a.m
• BCS Championship game: January 7, 2010 in Glendale, Arizona
• 2011 Super Bowl packages, February 3-7, Arlington, Texas – Enjoy America’s biggest sporting event complete with parties, festivals and entertainment.
• 2011 NBA All Star Game. Los Angeles, CA: The best players in the world – in one place, at one time.
• March 5-9, 2011:  Experience Mardi Gras in New Orleans! The famous – perhaps notorious – annual Fat Tuesday festival.
• April 1-5, 2011: Final Four…College basketball at it’s best.  March Madness doesn’t get any better than the Final Four.
• 2011 Masters Golf Tournament, April 4-10, Augusta, Georgia. Watch the world’s greatest golfers compete for the Green Jacket. Flexible packages give you plenty of options for events and accommodation.
• The Kentucky Derby is run on the first Saturday in May – May 5-8th, 2011
• 2011 Calgary Stampede July 8-17th: The world famous Stampede, includes seats at the evening Grandstand Show and the famous Chuckwagon Races.
• 2012 Summer Games of the XXX Olympiad, July 26 – August 14, London, England – The ultimate in international sports, space is limited for high demand events and premium accommodation so pre-arrange early.

These events sound so exciting! Why not plan your next vacation around your favorite sporting event?

One of the best ways to get around is to take an Open Bus Tour where you can hop on and off all of the major sightseeing attractions throughout the city. The cost is around $24 Euro, which is currently around $34 US Dollars.

Spend time around the Hyde park area, and you can walk to Kensington Gardens, the famous department store Harrods, as well as Victoria and Albert Museum. In Hyde park, you can enjoy time on the lake with boats for rent. You can also pay to ride horses in the park, or walk over to see the Marble Arch.

Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus and St. James' Park are all close to one another.  In Trafalgar Square you will find an 18 foot statue of Lord Nelson standing on top of a 171 ft. column. The Square was built in his honor after his victory over Napoleon's army in 1805. Within walking distance of Trafalgar Square, you can go shopping in the Covent Garden area, eat in Chinatown, walk to Parliament Square or to Buckingham Palace. In Piccadilly Circus you will find the status of Eros. Piccadilly looks a lot like Time Square in New York with neon signs, and it is the entrance to the city's entertainment district. There are lots of restaurants, shops and bars. Planet Hollywood and HardRock are in this area if you get home sick for American food.

Buckingham Palace was first built in 1705. Between 1824 and 1831, George IV commissioned to extend the house into a substantial palace, which was first occupied by Queen Victoria in 1837. More work was done on the front of the building by Sir Aston Webb in 1913. The palace is now home to the present Queen. State rooms are open to the public only in August and September. If you want to see the Changing of the Guards, it is done at 11 a.m. Monday through Saturday, and at 10 a.m. on Sundays. There is no charge.

Take a ride over to Westminster Abbey. Westminster Abbey is a Church, and a glorious example of Medieval architecture. Queen Elizabeth's coronation was held here in 1953, and Princess Diana's funeral in 1997. You can hear the choir sing at services each day at 5 p.m. or at all services on Sundays. Hop back on the bus, and the next stop you will want to see is Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.  Big Ben is the huge Clock Tower of the Palace of Westminster. In Parliament Square you will also see a Statue of Winston Churchill.

Get back on the bus and ride over to British Airways London Eye. This London Eye is a giant observation wheel that allows for fascinating views of all of London. There are 21 enclosed capsules that hold 25 people each, and offer visibility in all directions. A ride on the London Eye takes about 30 minutes. On a clear day you can see approximately 25 miles across England.

Next you can visit the Tower Bridge, the Tower of London and The Monument. The Tower of London is a riverside fortress. It takes about 2 hours to tour the area and see the Crown Jewels. The jewel collection dates back to 1661. Coronation jewels are on display as well. The Imperial State Crown has 2,868 diamonds, 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds, 5 rubies and 273 pearls. It was designed in 1937.

Another thing you must do in my opinion, is take a Thames river cruise. The cruises depart from Westminster Pier, London Eye Pier and Tower Pier. You can take a shorter cruise of 20 to 30 minutes, or you can do a full round trip which takes about 3 hours. Just like the buses, you can hop on, hop off throughout the day.

London is easy to get around, however if you do not feel comfortable traveling on the Tube, via the buses or along the river,  you can take a full day motorcoach tour of London which visits most of the areas I highlighted above. I recommend a London package with a minimum of 3 nights to enjoy the city, more time if you are planning to take any day trips to fascinating areas such as the Cotswolds, Warwick Castle, Stonehenge, Oxford or Bath.

S Brage http://www.atlastravelweb.com http://www.escortedbritaintours.com

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