This outdoor skating rink opens to the public in early December. Citizens and visitors gather on the ice for the opening celebrations that are typically orchestrated by the mayor of Sofia. However, the county’s Prime Minister has performed the honors on at least one occasion. The festivities continue late into the night because this unique skating rink never closes until the end of the skating season in March.

This popular ice-skating rink is a wonderful destination for visitors who want to experience the flavor of the city. The rink hosts regular skating competitions, charity events and DJ parties. Skaters can also warm up with hot drinks and local food in a whimsical Christmas house that is erected during the holidays. Because the rink is built near the edge of Lake Ariana, the surface is completely level. Zamboni machines can also access the man-made rink to complete a daily ice resurfacing process.

According to Bulgarian National Television, the LOOP rink is covered for some protection from the weather, but it still allows entrants to skate in the open air. The LOOP rink on Lake Ariana is a growing tradition in the city. Local corporations and the City of Sofia sponsor the cost of operating the open-air, outdoor rink jointly. Past sponsors include City TV, M-Tel and Sopharma.

In early December, the Sofia Echo reported that prices for a one-hour pass would be three leva (BGN) on weekdays and four leva during the weekend. The cost for renting one of the rink’s 400 pairs of ice skates is four leva for the day. Local students also qualify for discounted rates or free passes between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. The Lake Ariana ice skating rink is located in the pastoral Borisovata Gradina Park next to the Eagles' Bridge, which is several minutes from the city center.

Borisovata Gradina is a forested urban park that was constructed along with beautiful Lake Ariana in the 1800s. For decades, the pastoral park was carefully manicured by an elite group of gardeners. When the local government stopped their diligent care in the early 1990s, Lake Ariana dried up. The scenic water feature remained empty until 2007 when the park received renewed interest and funding to recreate its former glory. In 2009, the LOOP rink on Lake Ariana opened as part of these renewal efforts.

Since its creation in 2009, the Lake Ariana ice skating rink has won over the hearts of locals and visitors alike. The rink is a great place to go skating. However, it’s an even better destination for experiencing the unique atmosphere and eclectic architecture of the city while meeting new people and having a wonderful time.

Café Wha on 115 Macdougal Street, NYC, 10012

Found in the heart of Greenwich Village, Café Wha has been at the centre of music era since the 50’s and has been a melting pot for musical icons such as Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix. The stages of Café Wha have also been graced by Bruce Springsteen, Peter, Paul & Mary, Kool and the Gang, as well as comedians such as Richard Pryor and Bill Cosby – all of which I am sure you will agree have reached super stardom. This is an awesome venue to sample the latest talents.

Joe’s Pub on 425 Lafayette Street, NYC, 10003

Do not let the name fool you, because this "pub" has seen a wide range of performances from several world famous artists that include Bono, Adele, Katherine Jenkins, Elvis Costello and many more. Also, for fans of the late Amy Winehouse, the singer/song writer used Joe's Pub to launch her debut album in the U.S in 2007! This is a very spacious venue and is great for hearing live music, but at the same time it still remains a cosy venue to sway to the melodies of the night.

Cotton Club on 656 West 125th Street, NYC, 10027

Famous for its self-titled movie, the Cotton Club was most noted for having the talented black performers of the early days play in front of an all-white audience. Etched into history, the club has enjoyed the likes of Nat King Cole, Billie Holiday, Count Basie, The Nicholas Brothers and many more.  A lively atmosphere that is sure to get your feet moving.

Rockwood Music Hall on 196 Allen Street, NYC, 10002

Owned and run by the legendary musician, Ken Rockwood, this venue is where you come if you want to see and hear the newest music and the stars of tomorrow. The Rockwood Music Hall is an incredible venue and offers not two, but three varying stages of different sizes, as well as some of the best sounds in New York. Here you expect to find a welcoming atmosphere, a good vibe and a touch of sophistication.

Zinc Bar on 82nd West 3rd Street, NYC, 10012

You cannot visit New York, without venturing into a Jazz Club and this small, but intimate bar does not disappoint. A local haunt that is neatly tucked away from the touristic crowds, the atmosphere on Friday nights is electric and it’s perfect for soaking up all the showcased performances and culture.

Written by Steven McKenzie, an avid traveller, travel writer and blogger for Nycvacationrentalsonline.com, providers of vacation rental apartments in New York.

Tourists ride on buses, which make stops at many different Copenhagen landmarks and locations. The stops are variable depending on the route selected in advance. Buses stop at each location and allow tourists to either board or depart. Tourists are free to explore the stop at their leisure and then board the next returning bus.

These tours provide freedom that allows travelers to skip the stops they are not interested in and depart at ones they choose. Skipping the hassle of dealing with traffic and navigating a new city are two of the best perks of Hop On Hop Off tours. For travelers with limited time, some of the better stops to experience include Tivoli Gardens, Axeltorv, Gustav Kirken, Langelinie and Amalienborg.

Tivoli Gardens is a great stop to include on a Hop On Hop Off City Bus Tour because it allows people to spend as much or as little time exploring as they wish. Tivoli is a famous amusement park that is known for being the second oldest in the world. Visitors should experience Rutsjebanen, the world's oldest operating roller coaster. There are several other awesome roller coasters that can be enjoyed should visitors decide to spend extra time. If not, they just have to hop back on the next bus and continue on the tour!

Axeltorv, or Axel Square, is a popular area to explore in Copenhagen. This square is conveniently located next to Tivoli Gardens. Many historical buildings line Axeltorv such as the Scala Building and the Palads Cinema. This area is also one of the busiest places in the city and offers great people watching.

Gustav Kirken, or the Gustaf Church, is another beautiful architectural site in Copenhagen. There is a moat that runs behind the scenic church and its grounds. It is one of the biggest churches in Copenhagen and is part of the Church of Sweden Abroad.

Langelinie is most famous as the home of The Little Mermaid. This statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's tale, is a must-see for any visitor to Copenhagen. Langelinie is also a popular location for strolling and excursions in Denmark. For those who wish to see more than just The Little Mermaid, this area offers a scenic park, a pier and a marina. The park has a playground for those with little ones.

Amalienborg is another great stop for the Hop On Hop Off City Bus Tour that allows tourists to visit at their discretion. This area comprises four palaces built around a square. In the center of this square is an equestrian statue honoring King Frederick V, the founder of Amalienborg. Should visitors desire to see more than just the exteriors, the palaces of Christian VII and Christian VIII are currently open to the public.

Everyone has different tastes when they travel. Hop On Hop Off City Bus Tours allow people to select routes encompassing the sites they wish to see. Travelers can spend as much, or as little, time as they wish at the site. The tours are convenient and eliminate the need for private transportation to see Copenhagen's most famous sites. Hop On Hop Off City Bus Tours are a great way to experience Copenhagen!

Park Güell

Personally, no park can better personify Barcelona or the great artist himself, and designer of the park – Antonio Gaudí. As soon as you enter through the main gates of this once private estate, you are lead by a stairway to the Hundred Columns Room, an area where you can be assured that Gaudí let his imagination run free. If that was not enough, the views from this park are stunning!

Transport: Buses 24, 25, 31, 32 and 74.

Park Laberint

As one of the oldest parks in Barcelona, the Labyrinth Park was built in 1791 by Joan Antoni Desvalls of d'Ardena and is set on varying levels with stairways, pavilions and richly ornamented railings. Set over 9 hectares, this park with its adoring gardens is divided into two: the older garden in a neoclassical style and the younger garden in a romantic style, plus in order to maintain the parks beauty, only 750 persons are allowed per day.

Transport: Metro: Line 3 (Montbau).

Park de la Ciudadella

Steeped in history and beauty, this park in the Barri Gotic district of Barcelona was once a fortress that was constructed in the honor of King Felipe V in 1715. During this period, dark days fell upon the park where it was turned into a prison in 1717 and later destroyed by General Prim in 1878. Since then, Park de la Cuidadella has become a public garden and exhibition space and many of the lush gardens and stunning fountains were part designed by the young Gaudí himself.

Transport: Metro: Line 1 (Arc de Triomf) and Line 4. (Barceloneta or Ciutadella).

Park Guinardó

Set on the slopes of Turó de la Rovira is where you find this diverse park with its elegant gardens, prune shrubs and free flowing water, which all combine together to create a majestic spot. What I really liked in particular about Parc del Guinardó is the pine groves that makes you forget that you are sitting in the heart of the city, in absolute tranquility.

Transport: Metro: Line 4 (Guinardó)

Jardins del Palau Reial de Pedralbes

Like any major capital in the world, Barcelona too can have stately gardens and this geometrically designed classical-style garden is for the Pedralbes Royal Palace. The lovely flower beds, romantic bridges, awe inspiring trees gives a touch of serenity and majesty, which simply takes your breath away!

Transport: Metro: Line 3 (Palau Reial)

Aaron writes on behalf of Apartime.com, a leading provider of Barcelona holiday apartments.

Although 20,000 square miles in size with lands fertile enough, especially for growing sugar beets, rye, potatoes and wheat, the Masuria district is sparsely populated. Its freshwater salt lakes set against lush forests and meadows draw a large number of tourists annually. Archaeologically, the area was molded by the Pleistocene ice age as is evident by its moraines and hills. The area consists of approximately 30 percent forest terrain and 15 percent water.

Once ruled successively by Teutonic knights, the Duchy of Prussia and eventually the Prussians of the German Empire, Masuria has been part of Poland since 1945. Compared to other regions in Poland, it is one that remains largely wild, and the countryside is still dotted with visual reminders of the past. Castles from the 17th century keep silent watch alongside tree-lined roads with redbrick structures of German influence.

Remotely situated in Poland’s northeastern corner, a lot of this district’s lakes are connected via an extensive river system. Krutynia, Czarna Hancza, Biebrza and Rospuda are some of the major ones. These rivers are popular with the locals and travelers for canoeing, fishing, biking and hiking. Green banks, sandy beds and white water lilies make even visitors fall in love with these natural wonders.

With so many waterfronts available, the district is full of lakeside centers. Besides the main port of Masuria, a popular boating destination for world-traveling tourists, notable ones include the resorts of Mikołajki and Giżycko. Local college student also flock to Masuria, adding to the population during the short summers.

Mikolajki’s promenade is busiest during the height of the tourist season from July until August and returns to its sleepy ambiance by October. Gizycko, the largest sailing center of the region and situated on Lake Niegocin, is even more popular. Its tumultuous history includes destructive invasions by Lithuanians, Swedes, Tatars, Russians, Poles and Germans. Gizycko’s historic fortress that witnessed it all makes it worthwhile braving the tourist crowds. In modern times the town functions as a transportation hub and supply center for water sports centers and lakefront holiday homes.

Smaller lakeside centers include Ruciane-Nida and Wegorzewo. The major urban areas are Olsztyn, Elk and Eblag. Masuria also has many hidden gems that remain mostly untouched by tourism. Travelers who want to see first hand why this area was a finalist should definitely bring their camping gear to explore this unspoiled, rugged natural wonder.

For more information visit: http://world.n7w.com/new7wonders-of-nature-finalists/masurian-lake-district-poland/

The northern lights phenomenon is caused when the sun produces a cloud of gas that eventually reaches Earth’s atmosphere. This process is known as a coronal mass ejection (CME).

Once the coronal mass ejection reaches Earth, it interacts with the planet’s magnetic field. The interaction between Earth’s magnetic field and the CME results in charged particles, or electrons, traveling along the lines of the magnetic field towards the Polar Regions.

The different colors of the northern lights are produced when the electrons collide with specific elements in Earth’s upper atmosphere. Red lights are produced when the electrons collide with oxygen atoms at altitudes of 150 miles or greater. Collisions at lower altitudes produce green lights. Even lower, purple and violet lights are produced when the collision occurs at altitudes between 150 and 60 miles, while blue is produced at altitudes of up to 60 miles.

The constant collision between the electrons and the elements in Earth’s upper atmosphere at different altitudes produce a continuously shifting display of lights that appear to dance across the sky. The mesmerizing display is a major draw for tourism in regions where the northern lights are clearly visible.

In places like Alaska and Greenland the northern lights are usually visible year-round once the sun sets.

However, a great destination for northern lights viewing is Norway. Though they’re visible across the country, the best places to visit are in Northern Norway above the Arctic Circle. Stretching from the Lofoten Islands all the way up to the North Cape, there’s no other region where your chances of seeing the lights are greater.

In terms of when to visit, generally the period between October and April when the sunlight isn’t as bright is the best time. It’s important to note weather trends before planning a trip, though. Between September and November, Northern Norway tends to be wet with little snowfall, so the chances of cloud obstruction in the night sky might decrease the visibility.

December and January are usually drier months with higher rates of snowfall and the days are considerably shorter, while from February to March the daylight lasts longer.

There are many ways to experience the northern lights in Norway. Some popular options include watching the display from the sea, on snowmobile safaris or on dog sledding trips. There are also lecture series to accompany the viewing at the Polarlightcenter in Laukvik Lofoten, Norway.

Another tip to remember when planning your trip is to dress warmly. In Northern Norway, darkness occurs between 6PM and 1AM from October to March but it’s not always guaranteed that the lights will be visible. If you plan on camping outside, it can get quite cold quite fast so dress accordingly.

Additionally, though there’s a designated window for when the lights are most visible, sometimes days or weeks may go by before visitors can witness the magnificence. Be patient, check the weather trends and take advantage of everything else Norway has to offer in the meantime!

This competition is a part of the World Championship Tour for the Association of Surfing Professionals World Tour circuit, and it features professional skaters from all over the world. The event consists of several rounds, and only the best surfers make it to the end.

Tahiti has also hosted a competition for the World Tour of the International Bodyboarding Association.

Tahiti is a prime spot for a surfing competition. The waves offshore have been known to reach two to three meters tall, which is the equivalent of seven to ten feet. Teahupoʻo is known for being a reef break and many surfers looking for a challenge dream of surfing in this village's waves. The village's name actually translates to “to sever the head,” which explains why it made Transworld Surf's list of the "Top 10 Deadliest Waves." In fact, a local surfer was killed at the village in 2000, one week before the Billabong Pro event.

This all may seem intimidating to novice surfers, but it is a welcomed and exciting experience for the professionals that enter the Billabong Pro Surfing Tournament. Only the most skilled surfers are able to be victorious in this tournament.

In 2011 the tournament saw a historic run of swell. 39-year-old Kelly Slater from the United States of America ended up winning the 2011 trophy. During the several day span of the tournament, the competition was actually suspended for a day because the waves were too big, making it incredibly dangerous for surfers. The French Polynesia issued what is referred to as a 24 hour Code Red advisory. This advisory prevented any type of watercraft from being in the ocean. The waves were so large during the entire Billabong Pro Tournament that even Slater experienced a wipeout during one of the rounds.

Teahupo'o has hosted ASP World Tour Event Championships since 1999. During this span, Slater has won three times and Andy Irons has walked away with two trophies. Kelly Slater's record comes as no surprise, considering he has also been the winner of eleven ASP World Championships, five of which were consecutive titles. This makes him both the youngest and the oldest person to ever receive the title.

In addition to this, Slater's 2005 win in the Billabong Tahiti Pro made him the first person to receive two perfect scores in the competition. He lives for the excitement that Tahiti's waves present.

Today, Canberra is a unique travel destination and one highly sought out by visitors to Australia. Like the rest of Australia, its residents are English-speaking and the city uses the Australian dollar as its official form of currency. Canberra's climate can vary from hot, dry summers to dry cold winters — it rarely snows in Canberra. Cool winds from the nearby Snowy Mountains often provide cool relief from the hot summer evenings.

Tourists can hit a number of worthwhile sights while visiting Canberra. At the top of the list is the Australian War Memorial, which pays tribute to the Australian military service members who have been lost during the country's various war efforts. Black Mountain Tower, previously known as the Telstra Tower, is a beautiful steeple featuring a rotating restaurant at the top — it's an excellent destination for a romantic night out in Canberra. The New Parliament House is an architectural beauty and stands not far from Australia's old Parliament House, letting visitors get a taste of Australia's political history throughout the years.

Cockington Green is just 10 to 15 minutes away from the Parliament House, and a number of other galleries, museums, gardens and lakes can all be found close to Canberra's political heart.

Tourists can get to Canberra by car, plane or train, and within the city they have several means of getting around. Cars can be rented, but the city's ACTION bus system can take visitors throughout the city with relative ease. Canberra is also very accommodating to bicyclists, featuring a network of off-road bicycling paths that make biking a safe and fun method of transportation.

A wide range of fine dining venues are available regardless of your budget — these range from hole-in-the-wall eateries to upscale, suit-and-tie restaurants. Visitors should be aware that many of these restaurants are closed on Sundays, and all public restaurants in Canberra are smoke-free.

Overall, Canberra is a safe and comfortable city and has one of the lowest crime rates in Australia. Even so, there is a palpable racial tension present in certain parts of Canberra, particularly among youths. It is also common to be approached by panhandlers throughout the city. Travelers can learn more about specific customs or areas to avoid by consulting the front desk of their hotel or hostel.

Canberra isn't the most popular tourist destination in Australia, but it does offer a cultural and political setting unlike any other on the continent. Its convenient proximity to other attractive Australian destinations makes an easy and worthwhile detour for any tourist.

Air Zimbabwe suspends flights to SA
http://www.fin24.com/Companies/TravelAndLeisure/Air-Zimbabwe-suspends-flights-to-SA-20111216

Harare – Zimbabwe’s state-owned airline has suspended flights to neighbouring South Africa over fears its planes could be seized for outstanding debts, a senior airline official told state media.

Air Zimbabwe acting chief executive Innocent Mavhunga said the corporation, which is struggling to pay off debts of over $140m, had decided to temporarily stop its daily flights to Johannesburg to avoid creditors there.

“We are not flying into South Africa. We are trying to secure funding to pay our debts in South Africa,” he was reported as saying.

Posted via email from SA Flights and Travel

Chinese New Year is celebrated in Shanghai on a truly grand scale, with plenty of enthusiasm. The festival usually falls in late January or early February, on the first day of the year according to the lunar calendar. The Longhua bell is rung 108 times to dispel evil portends. All over the city, massive firework displays are held, and friends and family dress in new clothes and gather to partake in parades and Yangge dancing, a tradition that for thousands of years has been believed to greet the Gods and ward off evil! The New Year is also marked by magnificent Temple Fairs across the city.

Peach Blossom Festival

Held annually in April or late March, this festival lasts about 7 days and draws visitors and residents alike to the Nanhui district, a suburb of Shanghai, where thousands of peach blossom trees have been planted. The flowers of the blossom symbolize life, prosperity and growth, as well as long life. Since 1991, people have gathered in the district to celebrate the blossoming of the trees.

Shanghai International Tea Culture Festival

During this festival, thousands of tea-lovers, producers and experts gather from all around the globe to celebrate the age-old tradition of tea-drinking. Visitors can watch tea ceremonies, sample famous teas, attend seminars and visit Shanghai's most popular tea-drinking spots. The main center of the festival is Zhabtei Park, a entire leisure center devoted to tea, and home to the Song Garden Tea House.

Shanghai Film Festival

Joining major film festivals such as Cannes, Venice and Toronto is the Shanghai International Film Festival, one of the city's most exciting cultural events. Held in June, the festival showcases world-class cinema as well as movies by Chinese directors, with over 300 movies screened across the city during the 8-day festival. Its prestigious award, the Jin Jue, is given to the best film of the year.

Shanghai International Ballet Competition

First held in 1995 and now annually, this festival provides a platform for star choreographers and performers from around the world, who compete for cash prizes and the honor of winning this prestigious competition.

Shanghai Tourist Festival

September sees the arrival of the city's Tourism Festival, held annually for a month. It aims to show visitors the riches of Shanghai's cultural and historical offerings, bringing together tourists and locals. Traditional entertainments such as a 'rose wedding' and less traditional ones such as rock concerts attract hundreds of thousands of people, who come to watch the vast parades of colorful floats and performers from all over China.

Shanghai International Art Festival

Another important event in Shanghai's busy cultural calendar, this is China's only arts festival at a national level, sponsored by the Ministry of Culture. Held in November, it aims to draw the most exciting cultures of the world together, and showcase the very finest Chinese art. Visitors can enjoy trade fairs of arts and crafts, exhibitions, shows and performances.

These are just some of the exciting and varied festivals that take place in China's bustling capital, which is why it continues to draw thousands of visitors year after year.