Killarney is home to some of the top 5 star hotels in Ireland. Each hotel has a remarkable location whether you want to be close to the action or enjoy the peace and serenity of the countryside. Although each hotel has the same high standard of accommodation, each 5 star Killarney hotel is uniquely different.

The Killarney Park Hotel

If a central location is important to you, then the 5 star Killarney Park Hotel is for you. This Killarney hotel is located on its own grounds just off East Avenue Road near Kenmare Place. Although it’s just steps from the vibrant town centre, it’s still far enough away to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep and relaxing break. This Killarney hotel has a long list of awards to its name and as it’s family run, you’ll find it welcoming, friendly and relaxing. The hotel has 72 deluxe guestrooms, which are the utmost in comfort with crisp white linen sheets, a spacious ensuite and in room facilities like a satellite TV and DVD player, an electronic safe, a direct dial phone and music system to name a few.

When you stay at this Killarney hotel you can enjoy Afternoon Tea in the lounge, sip a cocktail in the Garden Bar or wine and dine in the Park Restaurant. A visit to ‘The Spa’ at the Killarney Park is a must. It boasts eight treatment rooms, a relaxation room and a hydrotherapy suite. The resident golfer can take advantage of the hotel’s club cleaning service and purpose built locker rooms.

The Muckross Park Hotel, Killarney

This is one of the newest 5 star Killarney hotels and is the only Killarney hotel to be located within the spectacular Killarney National Park. The prestigious Muckross Park Hotel can be found on the N71 Muckross Road about a 5-minute drive from Killarney town centre. It has a superb location right across the road from Muckross House and Traditional Farms.

It claims to be one of the oldest hotels in Killarney, having been opened since 1795. It was previously known as the Herbert Arms and was originally part of the Muckross House Estate. In fact, Queen Elizabeth, who visited Muckross House in August 1861, had lunch at the hotel on Wednesday 28th of August that year! The hotel boasts large, deluxe guestrooms which are fitted out with everything for your maximum comfort. There’s also two bars, two restaurants and one of the top spa’s in the country - the Cloisters.

The Aghadoe Heights Hotel, Killarney

The Aghadoe Heights Hotel is synonymous with the words “luxury” and “relaxation”. It has long been regarded as one of the top 5 star hotels in Ireland and is a favourite haunt for celebrities. The hotel is called after the area in which it’s located “Aghadoe”. It is perched overlooking the town, the lakes and the National Park, so from each guestroom you can enjoy the most breathtaking views of Killarney below.

The guestrooms at the hotel are superbly designed and have everything you could possible want at your fingertips. Guests can enjoy exquisite dining in the Lake Room and afterwards some cocktails and fine wines in the hotel bar and lounge. Relax and rejuvenate after a long day’s sightseeing at The Spa. Here the highly trained professionals will tend to your every need whether it be a massage or a beauty treatment. Guests can also avail of the 14m indoor swimming pool, a state-of-the-art gym or the on-site tennis courts.

The Hotel Europe

This Killarney hotel has recently undergone major redevelopments to stand out as one of the best hotels around. This 5 star resort is located on its own grounds beside one of Killarney’s three lakes - Lough Lein. It can be found in Fossa, which is about a 5 minute drive (from Killarney town) on the N72 to Killorglin - Ring of Kerry road.

Guests can enjoy a choice of two restaurants, a lounge, bar and a library. As part of its redevelopements the hotel has upgraded it conference and events centre and has also added one of Ireland’s largest spa facilities - ESPA, which has 16 treatment room and lots more! Onsite, you’ll also find 2 tennis courts, an indoor and outdoor children’s play area and a snooker room. The hotel is adjacent to the 18 hole Killarney Golf and Fishing Club.

Dunloe Castle Hotel, Killarney

The exclusive Dunloe Castle Hotel can be found near the world famous Gap of Dunloe, which is just a short drive from Killarney town. With such a serene tranquil setting, this hotel is a haven for a relaxing break in Killarney. The hotel has a magical location, with a tree lined avenue entrance leading to the hotel. It stands proudly on well manicured 64 acre estate. The hotel has a café, a bar, a lounge and a restaurant. For leisure you can enjoy the indoor swimming pool and a large indoor tennis complex. Outside you can take a ride on the ponies, enjoy a spot of fishing or simply stroll around the hotel grounds and explore the ancient ruins of the castle.

By: Mairead Foley

About the Author:

Have you ever wanted to visit Italy but been put off by the price? Online discount codes can help you to enjoy this beautiful country at a fraction of the price that you would otherwise have to pay.

The most difficult decision that faces many people planning a trip to Italy is where to stay. That really falls into two categories.

Firstly, there’s a decision to be made on the area of the country where you wish to stay. Secondly, you’ll need to think about the accommodation that will suit your tastes and budget.

Choosing a region is not as easy as it may sound. The problem is that Italy is almost too nice a place to visit. You’ll find that you have an almost endless array of options.

Have a think about what it is that you’d like from a holiday - this can help to narrow things down.

If you’re looking for a romantic trip then somewhere like Venice might be an obvious choice. For those wishing to see some of Italy’s finest architecture then the likes of Rome and Florence could appeal.

Alternatively, for those looking for a rural retreat, the regions of Umbria and Tuscany remain popular. That’s before we even mention the beautiful Italian lakes or the wonderful coastal resorts.

Having chosen a location, you then need to think about accommodation. Although hotels can be expensive in Italy, as elsewhere in Europe, an alternative is to look for self catering accommodation.

This is particularly appealing since the country is so beautiful - you may well be able to stay in a beautiful farmhouse, for example, at a much lower cost than a pretty average hotel stay.

Don’t forget that the internet is very much your friend when it comes to finding cheaper deals. Make use of it to track down accommodation and save money.

Also remember that special online discount vouchers, codes and offers can safe you even more money on your Italian holiday.

By: Keith Barrett

About the Author:

It has been established in many nations that tourism is one of the biggest industries. Many countries, like Spain, allot national budgets for the improvement of many facilities for tourists. Aside from that, resources are set aside to encourage and invite foreigners to travel and visit the many sights in Spain. The annual expenditure of Spain for travel and tourism alone reaches over $45 billion. There are many ideal qualities of the Spanish region which attract many foreign visitors every year. Among these are the climate, beaches, and historic sites of the country.

According to the United States Office of Travel and Tourism Industries, in 2005 to 2006, there were about 995,000 travels by US tourists to Spain. Further more, data presented by the National Statistics office of the United Kingdom state that Spain is among the most favorite European places to visit by UK residents. In 2005 alone, there were an estimated 13.8 million UK residents who traveled to Spain for their vacation. It was also detected by analysts that the revenue of Spain from online travel bookings by foreign visitors is showing significant increases over the past years. More and more hotels are now being built in Spain to accommodate the every-growing tourism industry of the country.

The World Tourism Organization (WTO) has its headquarters in the Spanish capital of Madrid. In a WTO report in 2007, there are about 60 million international visitors to Spain every year. Second to France, Spain is known as one of the most favorite world destinations. According to Euromonitor International, not only are UK residents fond of visiting Spain, but also German and French tourists as well, with numbers increasing every year.

As you can see, there are many reasons why Spain should be in your itinerary when you take a holiday with your family. Find out more about the sights and attractions in Spain, and check out the accommodations available.

By: Steve Martin

About the Author:

The caves of the 7 sleepers is the place where seven Christian young men hid themselves with their dog when they were fleeing the wrath and punishment of the idolaters. Later, they were found and murdered during the reign of Decius, the Roman emperor, in the middle of the 3rd century. It is said that they were resurrected after 200 years during the reign of Emperor Theodosius II in the 5th century. After that resurrection, many of those who believed in Christ wished to be buried in this place and they were, so that a large graveyard was formed with about a thousand graves, tombs and monasteries. Up to the 6th century it was enlarged continually and became a place of pilgrimage. This continued up to the 12th century. After that century it fell into ruins. The graves are on the slope of Panayir mountain facing Selcuk. The legend told above does not only exist in Christianity, but is also known as “Eshab Ul-Kehf” in the Muslim world.

You can climb up Panaya-Kapulu by a smooth but winding asphalt road, 9 km. in length, from Ephesus. After climbing up the hill 450 m. high above sea-level, you come down again a hundred metres over a slope, until you arrive at a peaceful place, where there are some inhabitants, and buildings that create an air of holiness. To the left side, when you pass through the olive trees, the first significant thing to be seen is the statue of St. Mary on the wall under the trees, which welcomes you with raised arms. Hundreds of people regarded as pilgrims, pass before this statue with reverence on every day of the year, especially at Easter. You can come here on foot from the shore.

The view of St. Mary’s House after restoration is wonderful. The house was discovered through the explorations of Pere Poulin and Young in the year 1892, and formerly its site was predicted by the Bavarian sage, Catherine Emmerich (1774-1824), two years before her death. When the house was discovered, the roof was broken down and only the ruins of the walls were left standing. It is said that those were the ruins of a church dedicated to St. Mary in the 9th century.

St. Mary lived her last days drinking the healing water of a fountain (30-35 A.D.). There are so many miracles worked by this water and by the ash in the fireplace of St. Mary’s House, that there is hardly anybody who has not witnessed them; people with cancer, whom doctors said were incurable, cripples brought on a stretcher, and children with disabled bones from birth, have all been cured here.

By: Sofia Petrakou

About the Author:

Understanding a Norwegian business culture, protocol and etiquette is important in achieving success! My none Norwegian friends and visitors have been asking me to make a site about Norwegian Etiquette, especially Graydon, a Canadian friend. Now I think it’s time to write about it. You, who are living in Norway and wondering about Norwegian culture, here is your lucky day. You might find your answer on here.

My intention of writing this article is to introduce you some points about our culture and protocol. It is not intended to give a business recipe about how to negotiate with Norwegian businessmen and business women. Rather, it highlights some important key areas for consideration when a person wants to do business in Norway such as how to communicate and conduct business meetings. It is not intended to stereotype Norwegians either. People act differently in various situation.

Meeting and greeting in Norway

There is no ritual to follow when you great a Norwegian businessman. A handshake, eye contact and a smile are enough when doing business in Norway.

Norwegians are relatively informal. However they may often introduce themselves using their last names. Don’t worry, you will feel comfortable with Norwegians since they move to first names very quickly. When you refer to a Norwegian businessman, you should use their both name and last name. Such as: Jon Atle Langberg( a male name) or Siv Hammer ( a female name)

When you present yourself, try not to sound over confident or self-promoting. It may sound as self exulting in the eye of a Norwegian!

A cornerstone of Norwegian culture is egalitarianism, embodied in what is called “Janteloven” in English Jante’s Law. Jante’s Law teaches people to be modest and humble. Many people have criticized others because of following Janteloven! This has become a bit problem among Norwegian young people. One may observe lack of confidence among some people since they exaggerate in showing themselves humble! Sometimes for instance at school some very talented students dare not to express their meaning and knowledge. Why? Because they are afraid of being judged as a person who is trying to show off! Some even get psychological problems or even commit suicide! This has been a major problem during the last to decades!

communication in Norway

The Norwegian communication style is informal, transactional and direct.

Although a person may sense the influence of egalitarianism, Norwegian business culture lacks graces, but people are generally easy going in communication. However, informality does not offer anyone to act unprofessionally. It is important to always remain polite and respectful when doing business in Norway. You may sense the same thing in some other countries such as:in Japan and China, if you have been doing business in such countries.

It is very important to build trust and confidence in Norwegian business environment by proving you and your company’s experience, qualifications and knowledge. Remember! Relationships in Norway develop slowly, but last longer:-)

Norwegians are straight-forwarded and never play behind the bushes, if they feel negative about you or company. Norwegians have no difficulty disagreeing with people or speaking their minds within a business context. In personal life, a Norwegians might be very prudent in using direct words. They consider it polite and considerate.

Norwegians are very honest in communication and expect the same thing from the other people.

Punctuality is very important when doing business in Norway. If you feel that you might delay, send a message a few hours or at least an hour before the meeting to let your Norwegian business partner know that you might delay. Business meetings will have a small amount of small talk but quickly get down to the business at hand.

When you present a project make sure that you have a back up argument/s or concepts with concrete facts and figures neatly organized in charts.

Norwegians are analytical thinkers and this helps them reach conclusions easily. Try to avoid exaggerated claims in your presentation in the meetings or doing business. If you sense a bad vibes from a Norwegian business partner and you do not understand why the person sound too quite or act as a stranger, give him/her some time, everything will be fine.

By: Maria Johnsen

About the Author:

With a population of around 7.5 million Switzerland is a small country surrounded by Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, Italy, and France. It is small, mountainous and wealthy that evokes the images of chocolates, cheese, watches, bankers, and snow-capped mountains, Flower-covered meadows and bell-ringing cows. There are many beautiful and fascinating places around the world, but very few are as picturesque and awe-inspiring as Switzerland. It’s one of those places that not only lives up to its image, but exceeds it. It’s a very tourist friendly place with great people, good food and rich history.travel Switzerland with airline tickets that suits you the best as you will not get the chance to visit this gorgeous place every day. So book your airline tickets to Switzerland now and grab this once in a life time opportunity.

The simple and easiest way to experience Switzerland is through airline tickets. Choose any competent travel website and get your airline tickets at most affordable prices. Switzerland is a delight for hikers, train buffs and chocolate freaks, and is a stunning destination for travelers of all stripes. It gives a numerous scope for outdoor activities like Hiking, mountaineering and ski mountaineering, paragliding and hang-gliding, water-skiing, sailing, windsurfing, rafting, and canoeing. As an elegant tourist destination it offers such top ski resorts such as Zermatt, Verbier and celebrity-studded St Moritz, while the white peaks of mountains set against blue skies make a wonderful backdrop for summertime hiking. The famous Alps and the Jura slopes are great places for skiing.

If you plan to travel Switzerland for a week, here’s a good introductory schedule for you. It involves a lot of travel, but hits most of Switzerland’s highlights:

Day 1 - Zermatt
Day 2 - extra day in Zermatt
Day 3 - Murren or Wengen
Day 4 - extra day in Murren or Wengen
Day 5 - Lucerne or Luzern
Day 6 - Lugano
Day 7 - Zurich

With easy access to airline tickets to Switzerland & lowest international airfares options available, flying to Switzerland is now as easy business as eating a piece of cake. Airline tickets have made your dream of holidaying in this country a reality. Enjoy your trip to Switzerland by booking cheap airline and get heavy discount on your international flights .you don’t have to spend extra money on your international air line tickets like before as we bring you the newest offers on airline tickets for almost all the major cities in the world.

All the major airlines provide you in and out airline tickets to Switzerland. You may compare and consider the airline that you find the best. However it is smart to look and shop around different airlines to get the lowest possible rates on the tickets. Or you can take the help from travel consolidators which will give the best deals on airline tickets to whichever place that your heart desires.

Switzerland is not only a place for professionals’ hikers or skiers. The very old capital of Berne provides excellent opportunities for sightseeing, shopping and traditional folk entertainment while the largest city, Zürich opens the gate for arts, design and nightlife, from opera and world-class theatre to stylish bars and nightclubs. As Switzerland is bordered with four other exciting places, you might get airline tickets for these places on good discounts if you plan to book your tickets along with Switzerland.

By: Ashu Kaushik

About the Author:

Miami is a great destination for tourists and residents alike. This article presents some of the best attractions to see and do in Miami:

1. South Beach
South Beach is where nightlife, trendiness, beaches and warm weather come together. From shopping to partying, South Beach is the hot spot of the city to hang out at night.

2. Miami Metrozoo
Miami MetroZoo is quickly becoming a popular and well respected zoo. The warm weather allows it to keep a variety of animals at one zoo including species from Asia, Africa, South America and more. One highlight is that there are no cages. Animals are grouped as they would in the wild to coexist together peacefully in the same space.

3. Seaquarium
The Miami Seaquarium is great for witnessing sea life of a tropical environment in an outdoor setting.

4. Go to the Beach!
Miami’s beaches offer a great chance to take in the sun. Get a tan, or enjoy the warm waters. There are also a plethora of water sports to do.

5. Everglades
It has 1.5 million acres of swamps, grass prairies and jungles. It’s located on the southern edge of Florida, and is home to many of the world’s endangered species, including the American Crocodile. A large portion of the park is untouched but vistors have the chance to walk around, canoe, camp and explore.

7. Miami Children’s Museum
If you have kids, the Miami Children’s Museum is great destination. It allows children to explore everything from a supermarket to a television studio, with plenty of learning along the way.

8. Parrot Jungle Island
If you like birds, Parrot Jungle Island is a great destination. Parrot Jungle offers visitors a chance to see tropical birds in a simulated natural environment. The destination also often has guided tours and educational opportunities.

10. Coral Castle
Coral Castle shows off Miami’s uniqueness! This castle was built by a Miami resident named Ed Leedskalnin as a tribute to his lover. After 28 years, his 1100-ton coral creation was presented to the world. It’s a bit of a drivefrom downtown, but worth checking out.

11. Vizcaya
Want to see where the rich lived at the turn of the century? No visit to Miami is complete without checking out the Vizcaya estate. This European-style mansion is a popular destination for parties, galas, and weddings.

Hopefully this article will guide you with informative information on where to go in Miami. Now it’s time to stop reading and start doing.

By: Stevie Foust

About the Author: