Monday, December 10, 2007

The Best of Both Worlds in Vancouver, British Columbia

The Best of Both Worlds in Vancouver, British Columbia [columbia british vancouver]

Are you torn between taking a luxurious, pampered holiday versus an outdoor, sporty vacation? If you and your holiday partner can't agree (or even if you're not sure yourself) there's no need to compromise when you visit the city of Vancouver in British Columbia, Canada.

An Urban Oasis - Stanley Park

Vancouver is one of the few cities (including New York with the famous Central Park) that can boast a sizable park as one of its features. Stanley Park is 1000 acres and is one of the largest urban parks in North America.

Vancouver is a coastal city with plenty of walking and biking trails. There's something for everyone, whether you enjoy an easy pace viewing the waters of the Burrard Inlet along the paved sea wall or take on the wooded trails of Stanley Park where you'll find impressive untouched forest as well as beautifully manicured gardens on your hiking or biking adventure.

Art Galleries, Shopping and More...

Looking to enjoy some shopping? Vancouver has plenty of interesting areas to shop. For the dedicated shopper a visit to Robson Street will provide designer boutiques as well as trendy coffee shops and restaurants, all with great people watching spots to take a break. [columbia british vancouver]

For those who are looking for something a little different than the usual step into Vancouver's Chinatown. You'll find beautiful imported items along with delicious Chinese cuisine along the streets with the red streetlamps and brightly colored signs.

Granville Island, which is also the home to the Emily Carr Institute of Art, is a busy market along the water. Find fresh fruit, flowers and a wide variety of ethnic foods to enjoy. Browse the art and small specialty shops where you're sure to find that special something to bring home for yourself or as a gift.

The Vancouver Art Gallery in the heart of the city also has something for the art enthusiast to enjoy, including presentations of the famous works of Vancouver's Emily Carr.

Science World, Vancouver Aquarium - big draws for Young or Old.

Bringing the kids? The mirrored dome with lights will surely catch their attention but what's inside this fascinating structure will impress them (and you) even more! Interactive and astounding you'll be entertained and educated in this attraction originally built for Expo 86.

For a slower pace try the Vancouver Aquarium. Watch the Beluga show or visit the tropics for a memorable visit.

World Class Resorts, Hotels and Golf Courses

Not far from Vancouver is the world renowned Whistler Village Resort. Ideal for a luxury skiing vacation, it is also a popular summer destination with biking trails, golfing, white water rafting, ziplining and more for the truly adventurous. [columbia british vancouver]

Camping and RV parks are never far away or you can choose to stay in one of the highly rated hotels for a real pampered treat!

Vancouver is a culturally diverse city with many languages and ethnic attractions. Although well known for rain, Vancouver's mild climate is ideal for the many gardens and parks that make up the city. Full of complimentary opposites, Vancouver is a harmonious blend for enjoying the outdoors and city life in one place.

by Shannon Emmanuel

New York Vacations – Where to Go, What to See

New York Vacations – Where to Go, What to See [vacation gramercy new york]

When most people think of New York, the hustle and bustle of big city life come to mind. However, the state of New York has many relaxing vacation spots for the couple or family who wants to get away from it all for a little while.

Why not delight your children with a trip to the Catskills, where according to legend Rip van Winkle fell asleep and slept for 20 years? The Catskill Game Farm will offer family fun, featuring about 2000 wild and tame animals to watch. Or, take a hiking tour of Ice Caves Mountain.

A visit to the Adirondack Mountains might be just what you’re looking for. In addition to the view, visitors enjoy water sports on area lakes and shopping in various villages. Kids of all ages visiting the Adirondack region will enjoy the Great Escape and Splashwater Kingdom amusement park in Lake George.

The family would also enjoy a trip to Six Flags Darien Lake and theme park. You’ll find one of the world’s largest Ferris wheels at the park along with two world-class roller coasters. At Lake Darien, you can enjoy the petting zoo, a large performing arts center, and lovely beaches. Camp or stay at one of the area resorts -- you pick your own level of comfort. [vacation gramercy new york]

Playland Park in Rye, New York, is an amusement park reminiscent of yesteryear. There are more than 45 rides, arcades, mini golf, a pool, beach and lake all located on about 279 acres.

If you are interested in culture, New York offers many cultural vacations, too. There are a huge selection of art and heritage museums and festivals in the state.

If romance is the reason for your upcoming excursion, New York has a number of spots you’d be interested in. Niagra Falls has long been the vacation choice of honeymooners. The beaches of Long Island also provide a romantic getaway. A hot air balloon ride over the Hamptons would make the perfect ending to a romantic day at Long Island. Or why not take your romance directly to the city, New York City. A horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park, window-shopping in Greenwich Village, and a ride on the Staten Island Ferry would all be nice ways to start your romantic vacation in New York. [vacation gramercy new york]

Once you experience a New York vacation for yourself, you'll quickly discover just how expansive the Big Apple really is.

by Dana Sanders

Tuesday, December 4, 2007

My first post

This is my first post for Gramercy Park City!