Gelmersee lake, Switzerland

Gelmersee lake is an artificial reservoir for a hydroelectric power-plant in the  Bernese Oberland, Switzerland.
This amazing landscape is accessible from the Hasli valley by taking  the steepest funicular in Europe with a slope of 106%. You can imagine that's indeed an interesting ride...
There is of course a hiking trail to the lake, it takes about 2 hours to get there and it's somewhat accessible to inexperienced hikers. The most dangerous places are secured by ropes and it is best to avoid this path in the spring when snow-melt streams can block the way.
The dam, constructed in 1929 creates an amazing view in the Swiss Alps. The high mountain cliffs are reflected in the lovely blue water of the artificial lake creating a wonderful fairy-tale landscape.

 

Gelmersee lake, Switzerland

 

The Gelmersee furnicular view

 

The Gelmer dam that forms the lake 

 

Gelmersee waterfall and the Alps

Pamukkale hot springs, Turkey

Turkey is a great destinations for all-inclusive vacations on some amazing sea resorts. If you are there for such a relaxing holiday you can always do day or half-day trips to popular attractions like Efes, Pamukkale or Cappadocia.
The Pamukkale hot springs are situated on a natural site in Turkey, the meaning of the word is literally "cotton castle".
A well-known UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pamukkale consists of hot spring pools and travertine formations situated on white natural terraces of mineral sediments.
Tourism in the region is a booming industry and people have bathed in the natural pools for thousands of years. Pamukkale is not really a place to describe in many words so a great set of pictures will give you a better understanding of this magnificent place.

 

Pamukkale pools and terraces

 

Pamukkale hot springs panorama

 

Pamukkale, Turkey

 

Tourists enjoying the pools at Pamukkale

Top Las Vegas Entertainment Events for April 2013: Vegas shows, DJs, and Concerts

The DJ and concert lineup in Las Vegas for this spring is off the charts, and if you missed some of the good ones in March, not to worry because the concerts for April 2013 are some of the best we'll see all year. While Las Vegas is always famous for its casinos, shows, and nightlife, it's hard to beat the range of DJs and concerts offered in Las Vegas, especially during spring 2013. Whether you're traveling to Vegas to see a headliner, famous DJ, concert, or classic Las Vegas show, April 2013 has plenty of options for Las Vegas entertainment and events. Here are our top picks for Las Vegas concerts, shows, and DJ events this April: 

DJs in Las Vegas for April, 2013:
Since spring in Las Vegas means the pools have opened up, we can't skip the Las Vegas day parties and DJs at the Vegas pools, or forget the DJs at the Vegas nightlife hotspots. During the spring and summer months, Las Vegas pool parties get some of the biggest names in the music industry to perform at the poolside day clubs and famous nightclubs. Here are the top picks for DJs at the Las Vegas pool parties and nightlife this April:
 ●   DJ KONFIKT at Hyde Saturdays Weekend Party April 6th or VICE at Hyde on April 9th at the Bellagio Hotel Vegas
 ●   Calvin Harris at Wet Republic on April 7th, 2013
 ●   Major Lazer at 1 Oak Las Vegas on April 9th
 ●   DeadMau5 at Wet Republic on April 21st
 ●   David Guetta at Encore Beach Club on April 6th
 ●   Avicii at Encore Beach Club on April 14th and April 2st.
 ●   EC Twins at the Marquee Dayclub for the Grand Opening on April 6th
 ●   Sander Van Doorn at Marquee Dayclub on April 14th
 ●   Avicii at Marquee Dayclub on April 27th


Las Vegas Concerts in April 2013:
Concerts in Las Vegas have a completely different feel than any other concerts in the United States. Since most of those in attendance are on vacation and enjoying Sin City for all it has to offer, the atmosphere at a Las Vegas concert is one full of energy, and the pulse of the crowd is like no other in the world. Come spring time in Las Vegas, Sin city tends to get pretty busy, and the concerts are even more vibrant and fun. Here are the top picks for Las Vegas concerts in April, 2013:
 ●   Rock N Brew Friday at the Palms Pool - Hello Goodbye, Red Eye Radio, HalfwayHouse, Bass Punks, and DJ Topsider on April 5th.
 ●   Def Leppard at the Joint Hard Rock Hotel on April 5th, 6th,10th, 12th, and 13th
 ●   Phoenix at the Cosmopolitan Boulevard Pool on April 10th, 2013
 ●   The XX with Special Guest Chairlift Tuesday April 16th at The Joint
 ●   Kenny Chesney Friday at The Joint (Corona Light Presents ‘ No Shoes Nation’ Tour) on April 19th, 2013
 ●   Rihanna & Asap Rocky at Mandalay Bay Events Center on April 13th
 ●   Hot Chip at The Boulevard Pool at the Cosmopolitan on April 18th
 ●   Zac Brown Band at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas on April 27th
 ●   Shania Twain at Caesars Palace - April 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th, 9th,10th
 ●   CeeLo Green Presents Loberace at the CHI Showroom in Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on April 3rd, 4th, 5th ,6th ,10th ,11th ,12th, and 13th.
 ●   Boyz II Men at the Terry Fator Theatre in the Mirage on April 20th, 21st, 26th, 27th, 28th
 ●   Bon Jovi at MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday April 20th
 ●   Elton John Las Vegas at the Colosseum in Caesars Palace - April 20th, 21st, 23rd , 24th,17th,30th

Shows Las Vegas:
While Las Vegas shows are produced all year around, it’s hard to say a Vegas vacation is complete without seeing a Las Vegas show. Here are the top picks for Las Vegas shows this spring:
 ●   KÀ Cirque du Soleil at the MGM Grand Las Vegas hotel
 ●   “O” by Cirque du Soleil at the Criss Angel Believe magic show in Las Vegas at the Luxor
 ●   Zumanity at the New York New York Hotel in Las Vegas by Cirque Du Soleil


This article was written by Ariel Abbott, Editor of EarlyVegas.com

Wet Republic Party, Las Vegas

Las Vegas by night

Concert at the MGM Grand, Vegas

Antigua, discovering Guatemala

Most tourist guides will tell you to avoid the capital Guatemala City when visiting Guatemala since there's not much to see and take a bus to nearby Antigua, a treasure of colonial architecture in Central America. All those tourist guides are of course right :).
Antigua is located at around 100km from Guatemala City and was founded in 1543. It was the capital of the region until an earthquake stuck it and the city had to be rebuilt.
The earthquake was also a good thing for the earthquake, all the property developers started avoiding the city and now Antigua still has that unmodernized colonial atmosphere.
What can you do in Antigua? Simply walk and discover the colourful, happy streets of the city and check out the shiny churches that combine the catholic faith with the old Mayan traditions.
During the week-end tourists from the capital flood the city, but on the regular working days the old city streets are quiet and peaceful, a slow lifestyle is indeed a virtue in this part of the world.
Antigua is the centre of Guatemalan tourism, you can book a whole range of tours that even stretch to neighbouring Honduras. You can use of course the local transport system consisting of the popular chicken buses, old American school buses used now all over Guatemala or you can book a special gringo shuttle to the destination.
Some of the things to visit in such a trip are: the city of Panajachel near the Atitlan lake, the Pacaya Volcano or the Mayan ruins of Tikal.

 

Earthquake affected building, Antigua

 

Antigua Cathedral

 

Antigua old city streets

 Guatemala chicken bus

Petra Jordan - history and sights

Petra is one of those places where a great landscape is completed by a huge historical legacy and great architecture.
This wonder city of the ancient wold is still well preserved today. It was established around 312 BC by the Nabataeans, an old Arabic tribe. Although there are not many natural resources around Petra, the city flourished due to commerce with spices, slaves and spices.
Described by UNESCO  as "one of the most precious cultural properties of man's cultural heritage" the city is now the symbol of Jordan and of course the most-visited tourist attraction.
Conquered by the romans around 106 Petra continued to be an important city in the region embracing Christianity along the way...
The city was abandoned in the 6th century after a large earthquake hit the area and most of the roman buildings were destroyed. Of course the Nabatean structures carved in the rock survived the earthquake.
The Petra Jordan history is very rich, the city is even mentioned in The Old Testament of the bible. Some legends say that Petra is the place where Moses struck a rock with his rod and water came forth.

Path to Petra

The Treasury at Petra

Old tomb, Petra, Jordan

Tombs of Petra

Vama Veche, Woodstock vibe in Romania

An old fishing village on the Black Sea coast, Vama Veche is now a popular tourist attraction in Romania. If you like rock music and you like the freedom to do pretty much whatever you like this is the place to be.
Those who firstly discovered this place just wanted to get out of the typical sea resorts and went camping on the beach or had accommodation at the locals. Recently Vama Veche became more popular and some small hotels were built but the crowd, although bigger has the same vibe.
The atmosphere is typical to a rock festival, and it's like that all summer long. During the day the village is not that vibrant, the tourists stay on the beach having a beer and just try to relax and recover.  During the night everybody heads out to the bars and clubs by the beach, grabs a beer and just gets along with friends or strangers alike. A traditional way to finish a night of partying is just having a lay down on the beach until the sun gets up from the sea, truly a wonderful view and experience.
Among the things you must expect are topless sunbathing and nudism, the beach is not that long and if you go North that's where the naked people are :), it's usually less crowded in that area near the cliffs where the village ends.
Regarding accommodation usually the small hotels are fully booked so you need to search something in advanced, also there are lots of tourists camping on a special designed beach area. Camping in Vama Veche is also permitted by some villagers on their property under a small fee.
Expect some good  quality cheap beer that you can enjoy everywhere and also a pretty secure place; just follow common sense rules and don't get wasted keeping all money on plain sight :).

The MASH beach bar in Vama Veche

Waiting for the sunrise in Vama Veche, Romania

A night on the beach in Vama Veche

Camping on the beach in Vama Veche, Romania

Cork: The jewel in Ireland's crown

Voted by Lonely Planet in 2010 as one of the best places to travel, Cork is one of the best cities to visit in Europe. This compact hub of culture, beauty and fantastic people will have you wanting to go back again and again.
And with flights to Cork available at such reasonable prices and Cork Airport Hotel offering accommodation for the weariest of traveler, now is the best time to sample everything that the city has to offer.
So if you're looking for a good 'craic' and are a lover of good food, great nightlife and plenty of history, read on to find out why Cork is the jewel in Ireland's crown.
If you’re a bit of a culture vulture and love the arts then look no further than Cork. Take a trip to the Cork Opera House, which is steeped in over 150 years of history and offers a world-class programme of events in its 1,000-seat auditorium. If it's art you're looking for then the Crawford Municipal Art Gallery is where you should head. You'll find it right in the heart of the city and with over 2,000 works ranging from the traditional to the contemporary, there's plenty to keep you occupied.
If you're looking for a good time and a chance to sample Cork as the locals do then venturing out at night is your perfect chance. Whether you're interested in hip and trendy bars such as Bodega or Rhino Rooms, or something a little more traditional like the Castle Inn's cosy snug, there's always somewhere to welcome you with open arms and provide you with a pint of Guinness or a cocktail depending on your mood.
Foodies are well looked after in Cork too, with some of the best restaurants in Ireland residing in this compact city. There is everything from modern, European dining, to traditional Irish cuisine and world foods on offer so whatever your taste, you'll have a full belly before you know it.
Cork is a city of many facets, so next time you're looking for a city break, why not try Ireland's most vibrant and worst kept secret?

Kinsale street, Cork, Ireland

 Crawford Municipal Art Gallery, Cork, Ireland 

Cork nightlife

Bantry House, County Cork, Ireland

Las Vegas Spring Break: Best Las Vegas Bars for Spring Break 2013

Calling all party travelers! When it comes to travel in the United States, spring break is no doubt one of the most famous travel times of the year. Destinations often include the Florida coast, Mexico’s beach cities, and coast cities of Texas, but as spring break has become mostly about partying, there's nowhere better this year than Las Vegas for Spring Break 2013. Vegas was recently ranked 1st on the Top 100 list from Nightclub & Bar trade publication for the top earning nightlife venues in the United States for 2013, and it had 7 Vegas venues place within the top 10 of the list. So, if you're looking to party for spring break, there’s no question that Las Vegas is the best city for Spring Break in 2013. While the infamous spring break Las Vegas pool parties are definitely worth your time, Las Vegas bars will be having Spring break specials for when you want some cheap spring break booze or just need to continue your spring break party away from the water and sun. But with so many places for spring break parties in Vegas, how do you choose which Las Vegas bar to to rage at during your spring break this year? Here are the top picks for Vegas spring break bars and restaurants in 2013 based on general party atmosphere and drink specials:

1. Señor Frog’s : There’s nothing better for spring break than cheap drinks, obnoxiously loud music, greasy food for drunchies, and college student specials. Las Vegas spring break at Senor Frogs has the best daily deals for college spring breakers. On Mondays, spring breakers in Vegas can knock back $3 AMFs, house tequila shots, Sex on the Beach cocktails, and PBRs. $10 for women and $20 for men gets spring breakers an open bar for draft beers and margaritas on Tuesdays from 9:00 pm to 11: 00pm. On Wednesdays, don’t miss the Glow Party at Senor Frogs from 9:00 pm to 4:00 am with $3 AMFs, Sex on the Beach Shots, and gummy frogs, $5 for PBRs, $6 for well drinks and $7 for Fireball & Ambhar tequila shots or Jagermeister. Señoritas get open bar from 9:00 pm to 11:00pm on Wednesdays too...so get out there señors, your odds are good! Don’t miss the flashbacks on Throwback Thursdays and the 2-for-1 margaritas and half off apetizers on Fridays. On Sundays, college student spring breakers get 2-for-1 for their first round of drinks if they check in on Facebook or Foursquare with the @SenorFrogsVegas. Plus Senor frogs is offering food discounts every day for college spring breakers!

2. Ghostbar at the Palms: Located within the Palms Las Vegas hotel, Ghostbar will have plenty of can’t miss spring break events in Vegas this year. Ladies night at Ghostbar starts on Wednesday March 6th with DJ Presto One, and the first 25 women who show up and check in at the gifting table will get Sanrio Hello Kitty products. The Ladies night on March 20th will feature music by Kid conrad and Carlos by Carlos Santana Gifting Suite. And just because it’s ladies night doesn’t mean you fellas shouldn’t join in on the party at one of the hottest Vegas Clubs, think about those odds guys! Plus spring breakers won’t want to miss the Ghostbar Dayclub parties every Saturday starting at 1:00pm. This is a great spring break day club option for those who don’t want to be out at a las vegas pool party, but still want that fun day partying for spring break. Ghostbar Dayclub (GBDC) is located on the 55th floor of the Palms with an indoor and outdoor open air balcony with views of the Las Vegas strip that you can’t get from any other day party. Don’t miss the St. Patty’s Day Edition of GBDC on Sunday March 17th hosted by Miller Lite with green champagne! Plus you can hear DJ Jazzy Jeff at Ghostbar Dayclub with its ‘90’s themed party during spring break.

3. Tacos & Tequila at Luxor: Running from March 1st until March 31st, Tacos and Tequila at the Luxor Las Vegas hotel will be offering drink and food deals for Spring Break 2013 in Vegas. Their “Seis y Seis” package for six tacos and siz Sol beers for $29 is one of the best food and drink specials for spring break on the Strip. Plus, college spring breaker students get a $5 menu from 11:00 am to 6:00pm daily! T&T will also be offering $15 tequila flights, $3 Jell-O shots at the daiquiri bar, $5 patron shots and more between 7:30 pm and 10:30 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

4. Rockhouse at The Venetian: Rock out at Rockhouse in The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian with spring break drink deals through March 31st, 2013. College students with a valid student ID can get 2-for-1 domestic drafts and well cocktails, free entry before 12:00am, and $5 shots. For those who want a spring break they’ll never forget, but one they might only remember through pictures, $50 gets spring breakers an all day open bar.

5. Trevi at Caesars: For those looking to get some good spring break deals for Las Vegas drinks, head over to The Forum Shops at Caesars for some drink offers! From Sundays to Fridays, Trevi will be offering drink specials from 2:00 pm to 6:00pm through March 29th! Plus college spring breakers can get special food and drink deals at Trevi including: $6 Trevi Bites (stuffed mushrooms, Romano chicken sliders, tomato bruschetta, mini cheeseburgers and more), $3 Vegas spring break drink deals for frozen Bellinis, $4 beer specials (Heineken, Sam Adams, Corona, Peroni), $6 glass of wine specials, and $6 martini deals!

Vegas Party

The Venetian, Las Vegas

Trevi at Caesars Palace, Vegas

This article was written by Ariel Abbott, Editor of CheapoVegas.com

Greek Holiday Bargains

Ah, Greece. Land of ancient ruins, sugar cube villages, cosy taverns and gorgeous coastlines. It's a bewitching place that holds something dear for everyone, whether you're a self-confessed beach addict or a history enthusiast.

One of the great things about Greece is the sheer diversity on offer. Thanks to the many different islands scattered across the Aegean and Ionian seas, there's something to suit everyone from all walks of life. You've got child-friendly resorts with family orientated hotels, bustling nightspots with booming bars and all-night clubs, rural retreats and lavish beach-side resorts with five star treatment all the way. Talk about versatile.

Another great thing about Greece is that holidays here don't have to cost the earth. Whether you're after cheap holidays in Corfu or low-cost getaways to Rhodes, there's always a bargain to be had.

The best way to secure a good deal on your first choice of holiday is to book well in advance. The earlier you book, the better - as not only does it mean you'll have the chance to snap up the tour operators' early bird deals, but you'll also have the lion's share of choice with virtually the full spectrum of availability - providing you get in there quick! By booking ahead of your departure date you'll also get longer to pay off the cost of your trip, and more time to save up some spending money.

Of course late holiday deals are another way to save money on your trip, and this is still a highly popular method. Start searching for holidays departing within the next few weeks and look out for price cuts across a wide range of holidays, including the Greek islands. You might find a tempting discount on a five-star getaway, free upgrades to all inclusive or a bargain basement deal to Kos. It's just a matter of keeping your eyes peeled, doing your homework and choosing your favorite...

Corfu coastline, Greece

Sunset in Corfu, Greece

Gazi Hassan Mosque in Kos, Greece

Alikes Salt Lake in Tigaki, Greece