Posts Tagged ‘Apartments’

Industrial Heritage In Manchester

September 19th, 2011

Many cities in the UK have been built up around the industry that sprung up during the Industrial Revolution, providing homes for the workers who worked there. Manchester is one city that was at the heart of this revolution, helping to transform England into the country it is today. The best way to get the most out of your trip to Manchester is to take advantage of the serviced apartments Manchester has on offer. This way you can enjoy a comfortable and relaxing stay, in close proximity to all of the sights and activities on offer.

Situated in the southern part of North West England, Manchester is bordered by the Cheshire plains to the south and the Pennine mountain range to the north. The city’s origins come from a Roman fort that was established in 79 AD and began to expand into a town during the Middle Ages. During the early 19th Century Manchester experienced its first industry boom, which came in the shape of the Textile Manufacturing Industry. The urbanisation of this incredible city came at about the time of the Industrial Revolution during Queen Victoria’s reign and made Manchester the world’s first industrialised city. It was granted city status in 1853.

As the industrial work disappeared, many of the major UK cities including Manchester, had to become more retail and customer service focussed, as the financial and retail industries took over. As a result, the past histories and culture of these cities have become attractions for both national and international tourists alike and Manchester is one of the most popular places to visit across England. To get the best experience of the city, there are many serviced short stay apartments close to the various activities on offer, including the vibrant nightlife and fantastic historical sites.

There are so many industrial heritage sites scattered around the city and serviced short stay apartments are in prime locations for exploring these. Perhaps the most impressive site is Ancoats, an inner city area that once held most of the workshops and factories in the city. The amazing complex of mills and factories still remain in the city’s former industrial heart and it gives a slightly sad reminder of what once was. Nevertheless Ancoats has much on offer for those interested in finding out a little more about the history of the ‘workshop of the world.’ Anita Street is perhaps the most popular site in Ancoats, as it is still home to the purpose built, hygienic workers houses.

If you are looking for a comfortable and welcoming stay in Manchester, within easy reach of the city centre, serviced short stay apartments are an excellent alternative to hotels. Castlefield is one area that is close to the various self service apartments Manchester has on offer, but is also an area that could almost detail the history of the city for visitors. Castlefield is home to many firsts, including the 1761 Bridgewater Canal, which was the first real canal system ever seen in any country in the world. It was also given the world’s first passenger railway that ran from Manchester to Liverpool in 1830.

One of the most iconic places in the wider area of Manchester is probably Peel Tower. The tower stands in Holcombe Hill in Ramsbottom and was erected as a tribute to the founder of the Metropolitan Police Force, Sir Robert Peel, who also served as prime minister twice, during the 19th Century. After a steep climb to the top of the hill, visitors are rewarded with stunning views of the Greater Manchester area. The 1852 memorial is a fantastic example of the city’s history and also allows for tourists to enjoy the village of Ramsbottom and the East Lancashire Railway.

If you choose to stay in the serviced apartments Manchester has to offer, there are more benefits than just excellent service and comfort. Serviced short stay apartments also give you the option to take day trips out of the city itself. If you are looking for a family attraction outside the hustle and bustle of the city, Bolton’s Museum and Aquarium is definitely a recommended attraction. Here you can learn about the various industries that made Manchester and the surrounding area the places they are today. The Aquarium is an incredible and fun outing for adults and children of all ages, with different species of fish from all over the world.

When it comes to the nightlife, Manchester’s is about as cutting edge and diverse as cities in England come. From Jazz clubs and real ale pubs to incredible nightclubs and bars, there is something to suit all tastes here in Manchester. Oldham Street is home to Mint nightclub, which offers more than just your normal clubbing experience. With nights ranging from Funk to Disco, it offers an alternative to the commercial club chart music many clubs have on offer.

Looking for places to stay in the UK? Check out great accommodation & prices from City Base Apartments for London apartments short stay & apartments in Liverpool

Sebel Parramatta In An Historic Part Of The State

September 18th, 2011

Choose the Sebel Parramatta in New South Wales, Australia, for a visit that combines history with exciting events and lively culture. Close enough to concerts at ANZ stadium to walk there, you are also under twenty-five kilometers away from Sydney for an extension to your vacation. That said, Parramatta offers plenty of attractions of its own. Guests may not need to wander away.

Rooms provide many of the amenities expected in a modern hotel. There are colour TVs, in-room movies and work desks. Internet is provided from your accommodation so spread out at your work station to send e-mails, or just write a postcard or two. Sip a coffee or tea made in your room while writing out the highlights from your holiday thus far.

Windows open for fresh air, or to dry your hair after a shower. You could always just plug in the hair dryer, but if that interrupts your TV program perhaps not. En suite toilets feature a shower/bath combination. Step in to freshen-up after your trip to the hotel gym and outdoor heated pool.

Arrange for undercover parking if you want to, but not everyone wants to drive when there is public transport, an airport shuttle, and a lot of attractions within walking distance. Take a much needed retail break at Westfield Shopping Town for some sandals and souvenirs. Ask concierge or twenty-four hour front desk staff to help you make meal reservations, book a taxi or exchange foreign funds into Australian currency.

Church Street, offering entertainment of various sorts, is also home to the hotel restaurant. Stop in at Two Forks for a meal. This could be the start of a day spent scoping out all of what Parramatta has to offer, so start with a full stomach.

Explore Parramatta, then put up your sore toes in a suite. This provides guests with the most home-like arrangement. Living and sleeping areas are separate from each other. Set-out meals, paperwork or homework on your dining room table or work desk. Access internet to send e-mails and updates home. A suite gives visitors a kitchenette and roll-out sofa bed.

This table plus work desk could become your office away from home. Prepare to attend a corporate presentation downstairs in one of eleven meeting rooms set aside for patrons hosting meetings, seminars, parties and fund raisers. Bring your friends here for Christmas and arrange for catering to include food and beverages in a set package. You could invite up to six hundred people and host a fabulous gala to raise money for a good cause.

Book one of the Sebel specials and make the most of your time away from home. Combine your stay with a trip to Rosehill Racecourse. This includes transfer on race day plus a buffet breakfast for two. Arrive with your best friend and attend the races in your finery. You could get your photo taken.

Howard Rudd serves as a seasoned reporter who is definitely a Sydney Accommodation specialist and is particularly well known for concentrating on Sydney tourist and information campaigns

Vacation With Children In Israel

September 18th, 2011

There may be more than 300 hotels in Israel, from small straightforward inns to 5-star luxury hi-rises. Let’s go through those facilities which are especially suited to families.

Many hotels in Israel do not allow more than one kid in their parent’s room. Some permit up to two, but few will accept three or even more. Crowded hotel rooms are not pleasant. At the end you are much better off paying a little more for comfort. Many hotels (e.g. Netanya holiday apartments) can arrange adjoining rooms so your children are nearby, though not underfoot. Remember, this is your vacation, too.

Most, although not all Netanya hotels include “an Israeli breakfast” in their basic price. Expect a smorgasboard with a selection of salads, cheeses, juices, yogurt, rolls, and sometimes eggs and smoked fish. Before you plan your day, find out when breakfast is served. You might want to go for a swim first and come back for breakfast between 9-10 a.m. If this is your strategy, keep crackers and juice in your room for early snacks.

Many Netanya hotels need that you take “half-board” during your vacation. This means that as well as breakfast, you pay for either lunch or dinner at the hotel. There's generally a set menu that includes soup, beef, side plates, and pudding. Recently more hotels are offering appropriate children’s menus.

If you would like to remain in luxury hotels, you may of course, pay for this luxury. A double room in a 5-star hotel in summer season can easily cost $150 or more a night. Nevertheless many 5-star hotels follow the International Family Plan which offers generous reductions for youngsters. A kid who sleeps in his/her ma and pa ‘ room is free. If you have 2 children, they sleep in a new room, and you pay for 2 single rooms. Always do the total calculation before coming to conclusions about which hotel is the least expensive for your folks.

Going to Israel? Then book your Netanya apartments now and visit the Resort Israel to learn more.

Enjoy The Carnival In Notting Hill, London

September 18th, 2011

Visitors lucky enough to be in London at the end of August have a fantastic opportunity to experience the excitement and colour of a traditional Caribbean street celebration at the Notting Hill Carnival. It takes place in West London on Sunday 28th and Monday 29th August and is a heady mix of music and costumed parade together with a feast of authentic Caribbean food. As many as a million people will attend the Carnival over its two days and there is a wide selection of hotels in London from which you can choose the ideal base for your stay.

Although the traditional roots of Caribbean carnivals go back to the beginning of the 19th century, when people took to the streets to celebrate the abolition of slavery, the event in Notting Hill has its origins in 1964. People from Afro-Caribbean communities in London came together to share their culture and traditions in a riot of colour and noise. Over the years the event has expanded in its size and scope and nowadays it’s attended by an estimated one million people each year.

The stunning sights of Carnival are accompanied by equally vibrant sounds; and music plays an enormous role in the overall event. Traditional Soca and Calypso music along with steel bands are still very much in evidence, but these days they have to fight to compete with the booming amplified music played via many static sound systems, situated all over the Carnival area. Live performances on stage also take place and over the years a number of internationally renowned musicians have appeared such as Eddie Grant, Burning Spear and Jamiroquai.

All this partying is hungry work, but luckily there’s plenty to choose from when it comes to food. Traditional Caribbean dishes such as jerk chicken, curried goat and rice and peas are available from countless stalls, to give you a real flavour of this exotic cuisine.

Visitors will not fail to be completely bowled over by the stunning costumes worn by those taking part in the parade. They’re complemented by gigantic head dresses which are so elaborate they defy belief. Months of preparation go into planning and making the costumes and various community groups are fiercely competitive in their desire to go one better than last year.

You’re strongly advised to use public transport to get to the area on either of the days of the Carnival because parking will be extremely difficult. However you should note that there will be restrictions on opening times at many of the local tube stations. Ladbroke Grove underground station will be closed on both days, but you can get to the carnival using Latimer Road, Notting Hill Gate, Royal Oak and Westbourne Park. Another way to get there is by using the bus system and you can get full details on both bus and tube travel in a special leaflet, published by London Transport and available at tube stations. Many hotels in London will be able to assist you with information on how to get to the Carnival.

With such crowds expected to attend, you should follow a few simple safety guidelines to make sure you have a great time. Agree on a meeting place in case you get separated from other members of your group and make sure you know how and when you’re getting back to your accommodation. Keep a close watch on your valuables. Inevitably there will be pickpockets at work in the crowds. Don’t bring more money than you think you’ll need and consider a disposable camera.

A trip to the Notting Hill Carnival will be a fantastic day to remember as part of your stay in London. Many hotels in London are looking forward to welcoming the extra visitors that this superb event will attract.

Looking for accommodation & easy access into & out of London? Try Kings Cross hotels or Paddington hotels

Lake Como Accommodation

September 16th, 2011

As travel writers we have seen a lot of places around the beautiful Lake Como but not many as a nice as the Tremezzo Residence. Eleven luxury apartments decorated and furnished to a high standard with a pool that is simply stunning.

If you are travelling to Milan in Italy, it would be sad if you came away without having visited the exquisite Lake Como region, which is just a 40-minutes journey by train from Milan. Even if you cannot fit a couple of days in your itinerary to visit the lake region, you must at least try to take one of the abundant day trips from Milan, although you will only return craving for more. Such is the beauty and elegance of Lake Como that describing it in mere words would simply not do justice to it.

Lake Como may be well known for its spectacular views, charming towns and villages, grand villas, glamorous gardens and beautiful natural surroundings, but it also offers a multitude of fun activities and adventures for sports enthusiasts. So it is not only a place for those wanting to relax and enjoy a good peaceful holiday, but also for the adventurous explorer who prefers to beat it out in the wild or indulge in some pulsating adventure sport. Hiking, biking, horseback riding, paragliding, fishing, swimming, sailing, kitesurfing, boating and even cooking among various other activities can be enjoyed here.

For centuries, Lake Como has been a perfect holiday destination for the wealthy and famous not only from Europe but from all over the world. Many celebrities have owned or own grand villas in the region. The peace and tranquillity along with a picturesque surrounding to feast your eyes on, has made Lake Como a highly sought out tourist destination among both local as well as international holidaymakers. The mesmerizing beauty of the region simply makes you crave for more, which is why tourists return to Lake Como again and again and yet hunger for more.

You can find a wide variety of accommodation in Lake Como, from hotels, villas, apartments, bed & breakfast’s, camps and tourist lodges, depending on your budget. However, it must be noted that bookings here are done well in advance and so you might find it difficult to find accommodations on your preferred dates, if you keep things to the last minute. Also it should be remembered that a majority of the tourists arriving in Lake Como target its southern towns, making this area heavily crowded during the tourist season, as opposed to the northern parts of the region.

As an experienced travel writer, its always a pleasure to write about Lake Como. We discovered a range of great Lake Como Apartments including the Tremezzo residence that were of a high standard.

Sydney Australia Hotel: Budget To Luxury

September 15th, 2011

If you are thinking about a trip or vacation to Sydney, then choosing the right area to stay is an important consideration. Sydney is a very large city and by choosing the area that suits your needs best, you will have a memorable and enjoyable vacation. There are lots of Sydney Australia hotels to meet different budgets and needs.

One of the most popular places to stay is The Rocks area. This is a charming corner of the Sydney CBD, that is located right near Circular Quay. The Rocks has a strong historical place in Sydney as it was one of the first settled areas of the city. There are lots of restaurants, bars and boutiques shops as well as weekend markets. If you want a hotel room with some of the world’s most impressive views, then The Rocks can give you just that with views of the Sydney Harbor Bridge and Opera House.

Another popular area to stay when you are in Sydney is Darling Harbor. This is an area that is flush with upscale hotels, restaurants, bars, cafes and night life that includes the Crown Casino. Shopping at Darling Harbour is also great with hundreds of retail shops selling all manner of goods including souvenirs.

There are award winning restaurants in Darling Harbor, such as Cockle Bay, which offers delicious as impressive modern Australian cuisine. You can find international food too and enjoy the Aussie tradition of the Beer Garden, while gazing over stunning bay views. There are lots of hotels in the area, many of them at the higher end of the spectrum.

In the Sydney CBD there are plenty of hotels that can meet all expectations no matter how luxurious as well as any budget. There are five star hotels and budget backpackers hostels, whatever you are looking for, you will find it. It is a convenient location as you are close to transport, shopping, dining, entertainment, sightseeing and anything else that you may wish to do while in Sydney

Close to the CBD is Haymarket, which is where a lot of the city’s theaters are located. This can be an interesting place to stay, and often less expensive than the CBD. Sydney’s Chinatown is located in Haymarket, so you will find a lot of wonderful food available near your hotel. It is conveniently close to Darling Harbour as well as the central business district.

Kings Cross has a great range of hostels and budget hotels and it is well known for offering one of the more colorful sides of the city. In the past it was one of the seedier areas of the city, but thanks to a lot of gentrification in the area there are now many trendy cafes and shopping arcades on top of a lot of night life.

There are lots of areas and pockets of the city where you can find Sydney Australia hotels. Learning a little about the area where you are considering staying will help you to choose an area and a hotel that are going to meet your needs best while staying in Sydney.

Alison McCubbin has lived within Sydney for more than 3 decades and is certainly a specialist on most issues which are relevant to Sydney. Along with her children she runs a smallish Sydney accommodation home business and supplies a broad range of facts to visitors.

Lake Como Flats

September 11th, 2011

As a travel writer I am always looking for information on amazing places around the world. Lake Como in Italy certainly falls into that category with its amazing scenery and luxurious surroundings. Here are just a number of things I have discovered about it from my research.

Strategically placed at the intersection where Lake Como divides into three branches in a y-shape, is the most beautiful town of Bellagio, a popular tourist destination in the Lake Como region. Flanked by the towns of Varenna and Menaggio on either side, Bellagio is easily accessible via ferry, but you can also travel by road to Bellagio from the towns of Como and Lecco, where you can get to by train if coming in from Milan. A very popular attraction here is the Villa Melzi and its exquisite English style gardens.

Como is the principle town in the Lake Como region, being the administrative capital of the Province of Como. With its own railway station, Como town forms an appropriate base for trips to other towns in the Lake Como area. You can take a direct train from Milan to Como from where you can get cheap ferries to other neighbouring towns and villages. Como itself offers a lot to see, what with its numerous Romanesque cathedrals, secular buildings, historical monuments and numerous museums besides the palatial villas and grandiose gardens.

If you are planning a holiday to Italy and Milan is one of the cities in your itinerary, then adding a few days of Lake Como would be a grand idea. A visit to Lake Como is a holiday in itself, as the scenic lake region abounds in natural as well as man-made beauties. Spread over a 30 miles radius, Lake Como is one of the deepest lakes in Europe and the third largest in Italy. It forks into a y-shape at the beautiful town of Bellagio with the towns of Menaggio and Varenna on the other two intersections.

Although you can visit Lake Como anytime of the year, you might want to avoid certain weather conditions. Summer months can be very hot with temperatures going up to 30 degrees, besides it is a busy tourist time and so the places could get really crowded. Also it is the time when you may experience heavy rainfall here. Winter can be cold with erratic snowfall. The best months to visit Lake Como are in Spring when the weather is mild and one can enjoy a great time outdoors without feeling the strains of the outside temperatures.

The wealthy have always chosen the best places to make their homes and Lake Como is one of them. Many well-known celebrities own properties in the Lake Como region because of its beautiful location and picturesque views. The towns and villages lining the 46 km long Lake Como, can be easily accessed by ferries that run throughout the day, besides there are other modes of transportation available too. Lake Como lies in close proximity to Milan, which gives it an added benefit of being close to a big city. So if you want to enjoy a holiday like a celebrity, then Lake Como is where you should be.

James McKenna is an experienced travel writer and loves Italy. We found a company who are very experienced Lake Como Travel Agents. For more information on Lake Como thenClick here for details.

An Overview Of The Good Aspects Of Renting An Apartment Rio

August 17th, 2011

Even if the purpose of visiting Rio de Janeiro is the Carnival, or there are other things to attend, people may consider renting an apartment Rio. Because the city views are wonderful and the money needed for renting an apartment are less than the ones required for staying at a hotel, the advantages of choosing an alternative place are obvious. The things that can be visited in Rio are numerous and living in an accommodation can provide more freedom.

Because the pocket of a client may not be full, people may want to choose to stay in an accommodation. Any customer may be pleased by the luxury found in Rio apartments, even if the luxury is not as high as in a hotel. For more options, people can do a more detailed research about the renting possibilities in the city.

As a travel location, Rio can be breath taking. The environment is overwhelming, no matter from which view angle is seen. The beaches are awesome and there is a constant party atmosphere during an entire year. The trend of the Carnival can make anybody happy, and people can eat, drink or dance anywhere.

There are many popular attractions, from which the shanty towns, Sugar Loaf, the beaches and Christ the Redeemer may be noted. There is more fun when people use accommodations for staying in the city, as they can experience Rio from an inhabitant perspective.

People who may want to live in an accommodation Rio may see that things are a little different in comparison to a hotel. Getting in touch with the population directly may be a wonderful opportunity.

The luxury from an apartment Rio can be seen when people rent one, in a vacation. The city may seem breath taking and unique and people can experience a different type of vacation.

Searching for input on travel, apartment rental and things to do on your holiday? Visit the website Apartment Rio for some great suggestions and advice from travel professionals. .

Tips for staying in London

August 16th, 2011

A city synonymous with red phone boxes and Beefeaters, London is an exciting metropolis with plenty of attraction to enjoy. It is not just the attractions that make the city so enticing but also the wide range of services and accommodation such as central London hotels, Kensington apartments, Oakwood apartments and Royal Court apartments, all making the city an attractive location for a short break.

One of the most important tips for a visitor to London is to pick up a map of the London Underground as well as a travel pass for the duration of the stay. With the city’s large size it is essential to use public transport as it is the quickest and cheapest way to move around the city. The transport network is extensive and even includes ferries so it is not a difficult city to navigate.

London is a city famous for many things including its art galleries. One excellent gallery which is an essential attraction for any visitor is the Saatchi gallery. The gallery which is located in Chelsea, near many Kensington apartments, features striking modern art and ever-changing exhibitions. Although the gallery is less well know compared to the larger London Galleries, it has been nominated for several awards for its exhibitions and is therefore well worth a visit.

Another visitor attraction in London is shopping and with a huge number of shops it is difficult to choose where to spend your short break. One excellent shopping location is the Westfield Centre located in Shepherds Bush. The centre features a wide range of shops as well as a number of excellent restaurants and services all under a roof meaning you can shop regardless of the weather. The centre also holds events such interior design shows. The centre can be accessed by train and underground from a number of central London hotels and Kensington apartments.

In terms of historical and cultural attractions there is one attraction which symbolises London better than any other; Buckingham palace. Although the palace is not open to the public, the architecture of the building can be seen clearly and it is an excellent opportunity for taking memorable photographs. Adjacent to the palace is also the Victoria Memorial which was erected to commemorate Queen Victoria.

With over four football clubs located within the city of London there are a number of interesting sights for football fans. One of the smaller London stadiums which is worth visiting is White Hart Lane home to Tottenham Hotspur. Fans and football lovers alike can take a tour of the stadium joined by two of the clubs legendary players Pat Jennings and Martin Chivers. The stadium can be accessed by the Underground, bus and train from a number of excellent accommodation options such as many central London hotels, Kensington apartments and Oakwood apartments.

If the weather is nice an excellent way to take a break is to take a trip to Jubilee Gardens located on the South Bank. The park serves as a memorial for the lives lost by the International Brigade during the Spanish Civil War. Although it is only a small park it has a great vantage point for the London Eye and is an excellent potential picnic location. It also offers an opportunity to simply catch your breath in the busy city. The park as well as the London Eye is easily accessed by the Underground as well as the bus service from many Kensington apartments as well as Oakwood apartments and Royal Court apartments London meaning it is not difficult to access. There is simply so much to do in London and these tips are only a few of many excellent attractions which the vibrant and exciting city of London has to offer.

Amazing apartments in London such as Hyde park executive apartments and marlin apartments canary wharf.

The views around Italy

August 16th, 2011

Rome, the Eternal City, is a great place to start any visit to Italy. Wherever you go in this city you will find something to see. Also as Italy’s capital city, Rome has a wide range of accommodation to suit any budget as well as a plethora of fantastic restaurants in which you can experience the varied tastes of Italy. Rome is great for longer holidays and for those looking for a city base apartments are often located in areas close to the main tourist sights and offer good value.

The biggest problem visitors have in Rome is where to start with their sightseeing. One place that most people like to start is at the Coliseum, its image is everywhere in the city and a visit there is a definite highlight. Roman ruins are everywhere and for history lovers there are loads of interesting sites. The Forum was the centre of the ancient city and around this area are lots of fascinating ruins. Here can be seen the temples of Saturn, Castor, Pollux, Venus and Roma. The Palatine Hill overlooks the Forums and as the site where wealthy Romans made their homes it is also an archaeological site in its own right.

Like many Italian cities, the churches are amongst the most important sights for the visitor. San Giovanni degli Eremiti is typical of architecture within Palermo as it is a characteristic blend of Byzantine, Arab and Norman influences. Palermo Cathedral is another impressive religious building. The outside combines neo classical design with Moorish and Gothic styles whilst the interior has Greek, Roman and Norman tombs.

Other significant sights aren’t, strictly speaking, Italian. The Vatican attracts millions of visitors every year. Not only can visitors see St Peter’s Square and Basilica with all the requisite artefacts, they can also visit the Vatican Museum complete with the Sistine Chapel and many priceless works of art.

The Massimo Theatre, famed for its appearance in ‘The Godfather’ films is another oft frequented sight. Another great place to visit is the Catacombs. This creepy place has hundreds of skeletons and mummies, many of which were sent there from the 16th century up until the early years of the 20th century. The 700 year old Vucciria Market sells all kinds of goods and is used by locals and visitors alike.

There is plenty of accommodation around all the city’s main tourist sights and for those who wish for a city base serviced apartments are available in different areas of the city. There are apartments available within walking distance of the Old Quarter ideal for those who want to enjoy the architecture and atmosphere. Palermo’s blend of influences and cultures makes it unique amongst Italian cities making a great place to stay for an extended period.

As a city base apartments offer freedom to the visitor particularly if they want to explore the island of Sicily. There are some great beaches easily reached from the city such as the beach of San Vito lo Capa to the west as well as lots of resorts to the east en route to Cefalu. Palermo is within easy reach of the Marsala wine region of the island. The rugged mountainous interior makes for an interesting contrast to the coastal regions. It is also possible to visit the world’s most famous volcano, Etna. Another popular place to visit is the town of Corleone, popularised by the Godfather films. Trains run frequently between the main towns and buses can get you to more remote spots, though many visitors prefer to rent a car to give them the maximum freedom.

Accommodation in Florence is of a high quality and offers varied choices for different needs. Whether you decide to stay in basic hostels, luxury hotels or for those wanting a long term city base apartments are also available. Such apartments are often fully equipped and provide cleaning services, free Wi-Fi and sometimes an onsite cafe. For those wanting a long term city base apartments really offer the best value. Renting a short stay apartment can really give the visitor the chance to thoroughly explore the city of Florence and its surrounding region and help them truly enjoy the atmosphere of this amazing city.

The biggest problem visitors have in Rome is where to start with their sightseeing. One place that most people like to start is at the Coliseum, its image is everywhere in the city and a visit there is a definite highlight. Roman ruins are everywhere and for history lovers there are loads of interesting sites. The Forum was the centre of the ancient city and around this area are lots of fascinating ruins. Here can be seen the temples of Saturn, Castor, Pollux, Venus and Roma. The Palatine Hill overlooks the Forums and as the site where wealthy Romans made their homes it is also an archaeological site in its own right.

The Capitoline Hill offers wonderful panoramas of the Forums and was an important centre of power for ancient Romans and remains so today. Many of the buildings around Piazza Campidoglio were based on the plans of Michelangelo. The Piazza whilst dating from the 15th century reflects Rome’s ancient history. Another must see sight is the Pantheon which is one of the Roman Empire’s best preserved buildings. Built in the second century AD by Emperor Hadrian it is famed for its dome and rotunda. Rome, however, isn’t all about the ancient city.

Like all Italian cities, Florence is famed for its piazzas. As mentioned earlier, the Piazza del Duomo is huge but there are many other interesting piazzas. Piazza della Signoria is right in the centre of the old city and has been the centre of Florentine political life for centuries. The Palazzo Vecchio, the town hall, stands in this piazza. One of the city’s most popular piazzas is the Piazza del Michelangelo. This piazza overlooks the city and has a copy of the statue of David at its centre.

Many of Rome’s piazzas are rightly famous. The Piazza Navona with its famous fountains as well as its cafes is popular as is the Piazza di Spagna, which includes the Spanish Steps . The poets Keats and Shelley once lived here and there is a house in the piazza to commemorate this fact. This is also a great shopping area. Finally, there is the Piazza Venezia, one of Rome’s most central piazzas and home to the Palazzo Venezia, a world class museum.

There is plenty of accommodation around all the city’s main tourist sights and for those who wish for a city base serviced apartments are available in different areas of the city. There are apartments available within walking distance of the Old Quarter ideal for those who want to enjoy the architecture and atmosphere. Palermo’s blend of influences and cultures makes it unique amongst Italian cities making a great place to stay for an extended period.

As a city base apartments offer freedom to the visitor particularly if they want to explore the island of Sicily. There are some great beaches easily reached from the city such as the beach of San Vito lo Capa to the west as well as lots of resorts to the east en route to Cefalu. Palermo is within easy reach of the Marsala wine region of the island. The rugged mountainous interior makes for an interesting contrast to the coastal regions. It is also possible to visit the world’s most famous volcano, Etna. Another popular place to visit is the town of Corleone, popularised by the Godfather films. Trains run frequently between the main towns and buses can get you to more remote spots, though many visitors prefer to rent a car to give them the maximum freedom.

Accommodation in Florence is of a high quality and offers varied choices for different needs. Whether you decide to stay in basic hostels, luxury hotels or for those wanting a long term city base apartments are also available. Such apartments are often fully equipped and provide cleaning services, free Wi-Fi and sometimes an onsite cafe. For those wanting a long term city base apartments really offer the best value. Renting a short stay apartment can really give the visitor the chance to thoroughly explore the city of Florence and its surrounding region and help them truly enjoy the atmosphere of this amazing city.

If you are looking for other apartments around the world why not try apartment in Paris or edinburgh apartments.