Monthly Archives

September 2013

Low in Price, High in Satisfaction: Searching for the Best Motel Rates Online

written by Mae

When it comes to vacations, one of the things that often put a dampener on things is the budget. Vacations that are supposed to be relaxing and rejuvenating turn out to be horror stories just because people chose to skimp on airfares, hotel fees, and other travel expenses. Yours need not turn out the same way. There are steps that you can take in order to have a vacation that is low in price but is most definitely high in satisfaction. You can start with an online search for the best motel rates. This is easy to do nowadays with a lot of travel operators and deal websites competing to give the modern traveller the best value for his money.

Our mini-hotel in Napoli

September 20, 2013 0 comment

Halifax

A Breath Of Fresh Air Welcomes You At Halifax!

written by Mae

Although Montreal is a wonderful city, I love having my time in Halifax. I live in Montreal; and I am back from a three week vacation in Halifax. It’s not like I don’t love Montreal, but, 3 weeks in Halifax means doing a lot many things and simply taking it easy. Halifax’s weather is also classified as humid continental like that of the Montreal weather. The summers are humid, but life is much more fun in Halifax as it revolves around the sea.

So, if you’re planning to take a trip to Halifax, let me tell you, it’s going to be fun. Rich in culture and history, Halifax is best enjoyed on foot. Simply park your car, and walk into any museum, bar or restaurant to make the most of your time there. There’s breathtaking beauty and exciting events happening at every corner of the city. All you need to do is explore them as you walk around.

There’s more to the city than just the sea. Just go out and let the coastal energy guide you through the city. What better way to start exploring the city than visiting the Eastern Coast, an ideal destination for adventure freaks.

Let your tour begin with Peggy’s Cove. It’s the most authentic fishing village in Nova Scotia. Check out the very popular lighthouse; also visit the rugged, sea-sculpted, granite shores and have fun.

Peggy’s Cove

The Public Garden is one authentic lush Victorian garden where you could escape to.

Try visiting the Citadel Hill. It is one of the most visited historic sites in Canada. You’ll have an amazing time atop with fantastic views.

September 12, 2013 0 comment

Travel Challenges

Dropped – no, I’m not Counted as a Legendary Traveller

written by Mae

Years ago, when I was still single, I had imposed a challenge to myself: to travel alone to certain cities and prove that I could be independent. The farthest I’ve gone to was Baguio city, it’s 6 hours away from Manila and for me (at 18), that’s already far! 🙂

Fast forward to 15 years, I found myself exploring a city 15 hours away (by plane that is) from my hometown; in Frankfurt – Europe’s largest financial centre. I was excited and giddy at the same time on thoughts of going about an unfamiliar city by myself – yes, I imagine a sort of urban adventure, meeting new people, staring in awe at old and new architecture, taking photos of lovely corners and historical buildings, walking endlessly on cobblestones. And that’s just what I did and a lot more! There’s no mountain to go up or hike to as was Baguio’s and which from atop you can see the luxuriant vegetation…but Frankfurt has the Main Tower and from there you can truly see how Frankfurt is a German city – full of high-rise glass buildings in the midst of lush greenery.

Deutsche Bank Twin Towers and Frankfurt seen from the Main Tower

Three days full may have been short to some but to me, it was much – I haven’t been by myself, alone in a distant city for so long – far from hubby and the kids. I was consoled by the fact that it’s Germany, I speak their language so I’d be alright! Besides, hubby and I went on a trip to Italy earlier, with cities much busier and much more populated than Frankfurt…I felt safer and awesome! 😉

September 8, 2013 0 comment

Queen Elizabeth

New Photos Show Queen’s Love of Horses

written by Mae

The Royal family although public figures – do like to keep themselves to themselves – nobody wants all of their likes, dislikes and everything else you can find to be used for public knowledge. One thing that we already knew about the Queen is that she does have a love for animals. Of course a lot of people will automatically think about the corgies she has – but recent photos that have previously been unseen show the Queen definitely had an early love for horses and of course they have been a big part of the Royal family’s life since then.

One of the photos that has recently come to light show the Queen at roughly 4-years-old sitting on top of a Shetland Pony she had named Peggy which was a gift from her grandfather. You can see her smiling brightly, paying close attention to her Father, who was then the Duke of York, as he looks on. Another photograph taken by her Father in 1928 includes the Queen playing on a small toy horse in Naseby Hall gardens pretending to ride it – with her mother encouraging her and cheering her on.

September 4, 2013 0 comment