Monday, October 18, 2010

How To Make Travel From London to Avignon by Eurostar

Avignon, written as Avennio or Avenio in the ancient texts and inscriptions, takes its name from the Avennius clan. Founded by the Gallic tribe of the Cavares or Cavari, it became the centre of an important Phocaean colony from Massilia (present Marseilles).

In 1033, when Conrad II fell heir to the Kingdom of Arelat, Avignon passed to the Holy Roman Empire. With the German rulers at a distance, Avignon set up as a republic with a consular form of government, between 1135 and 1146. In addition to the Emperor, the Counts of Forcalquier, of Toulouse and of Provence exercised a purely nominal sway over the city; on two occasions, in 1125 and in 1251, the Counts of Toulouse and Provence divided their rights in regard to it, while the Count of Forcalquier resigned any right he possessed to the local Bishops and Consuls in 1135.

On 7 May 1251 Avignon was made a common possession of counts Charles of Anjou and Alphonse de Poitiers, brothers of French king Saint Louis IX. On 25 August 1271, at the death of Alphonse de Poitiers, Avignon and the surrounding countship Comtat-Venaissin (which was governed by rectors since 1274) were united with the French crown.

vignon today is a very enjoyable medium sized city (89,500 inhabitants with the neighboring cities housing 160,000) and should be part of any tour of the Provence region. Avignon offers many amenities which could make it an excellent central point from which to visit all other tourist destinations in the area (Pont du Gard, Nîmes, Arles, the Camargue, Lubéron and Ventoux, Baux de Provence, St Remy and the Alpilles, etc.). It's a question of preference. Some might prefer to stay one or two days in each city. Others might prefer staying in a larger city, then making day trips to explore the Provence region.

London To Avignon by Eurostar:

Eurostar known for its high-speed trains in which you can relax in comfort and with stylish surroundings. London to Avignon is one of the most important and busiest train routes in Western Europe. Both London and Avignon are important cities of that region and hence there are lots of commuters at this route. Eurostar links to over 100 destinations across Europe.

The first departure schedule of Eurostar from London is 7:09am and arrive Avignon at 2:13pm. Eurostar fares for London to Avignon train starts from as low as £119. As you need not to take tickets separately for Eurostar and TGV, this can be a huge time saver.

Hotels in Avignon:

1.Hotel Roques: Hotel Roques is located in Les Angles, on the outskirts of Avignon, far from noise and chaos.

In the summer, guests can enjoy swimming in the outdoor pool or strolling in the quiet, shaded garden. In the winter, they can indulge in a drink or an afternoon tea in the friendly atmosphere of the reading lounge.

The property offers a personalized service and useful sightseeing tips to enjoy the beautiful region of Provence.

2.Hotel Danieli: The Danieli hotel staff are multilingual and are on hand 24 hours-a-day to help you with your tourist and accommodation needs. After a day out and about in Avignon, come back to the Danieli and enjoy a relaxing drink in the hotel bar. Guests can also send faxes, make photocopies and book taxis from the convenience of the hotel reception.

The Danieli Hotel has a computer in reception for guest use.

3.Hotel Mignon: It is Situated in the historic area of the city, the Mignon hotel provides discount accommodation in Avignon – France. Guests staying at this chic Avignon 1 star hotel will appreciate the hotel’s clean rooms equipped with cable TV and free wireless Internet access.

Visitors are also entitled to complimentary use of the hotel’s business center and can enjoy a delicious breakfast brought directly to their room.

4.Hotel Le Magnan: Hotel Le Magnan is superbly located within the historic city walls of Avignon, near the Gare Centrale railway station and not far from all major monuments, including the Saint Bénezet bridge, the Ramparts, the Petit Palais, the Cathedral and the impressive Papal Palace - the largest Gothic building in Europe.

5.Hotel Les Frênes: It is near by Avignon, in five minutes of Ramparts, the Bridge of Avignon and the Palace of the Popes, the Hostelry Les frênes is ideally situated for a stay in Avignon. An oasis of greenery, coolness, peace and serenity invades the traveller as soon as he crosses the doors of the Hostelry Les Frênes, a magnificent house Napoleonic.

Amazing Attractions in Avignon:

1.Palais des Papes : The Palace of the Popes is now a visitor’s treasure. The construction of this building began in 1309, when Pope Clement V leaves Rome and chooses Avignon as the capital of Christianity. It is the most beautiful and strongest mansion in the world according to Froissart. As it has 25 of the rooms which are open to explore. These include the reception halls, cloister, chapels and the Pope’s private apartment ornamented with frescos which was made in the14th-century. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Currently the building hosts a museum and an exhibitions hall. One of the most interesting features of the Palace is the great collections of frescoes. These paintings of the Painters are from all Europe and most of them are from Sienna, The ‘Domes’, which holds and an important collection of art and the grave of the Pope Jean XXII, is the only complete Romanesque edifice in Avignon. This museum is opened everyday from 11 am to 6 pm. So travel to Avignon and enjoy your holidays.

2. Pont d’Avignon : Avignon Bridge also called as Pont St Bénézet, made legendary in the children’s nursery rhyme, “Le Pont d’Avignon. This beautiful bridge was built in 12th century, although floods from the Rhône River damaged it extensively over the years. This bridge ends in the middle of the Rhone River. It is Another UNESCO World Heritage site, it was rebuilt in the 17th century and now stands with 4 arches and the St-Nicolas Chapel.

3.Avignon Festival : It is famous all over the world for its annual theatre festival. It is one of the oldest and most famous theatre festivals in the world, theFestival d’Avignon is an important part of this city. Each year you will get to see a new and famous artist in which the festival is themed around. Every July, 3 weeks there’s a non-stop entertainment and top notch theater. 20 venues span the city with over 40 performances. Even the Pope’s Palace is opened. Many artists like street performers, actors, musicians, and of course the ubiquitous tourists join this festival. You will see wonderful collection of art works by masters like Van Gogh, Picasso and Degas. Must go for “papalines” a delicious treat consisting of chocolate and liquor. In front of the Hotels des Monnaies’ is a terrace always full of tourists. From time to time a street artist performs in front of the foreign visitors. The gem of this festival is the performances which take place inside the Pope’s Palace itself. Tickets are expensive, this is organized by many French and European thespians (actor any gender) to be crowned for the achievement of a career. The vast majority of performances are, in French but a number of foreign companies perform in English. Even without attending any events, the atmosphere and street theater give the visitors a marvelous feeling.

4. Summer Markets : Avignon is a real treat for all the shoppers. Shopping in Avignon will give you full satisfying experience. These markets have a large part of the southern culture. These shop open from 7:00am to 1:00pm. You will certainly find your shopping that fits your choice and budget also. You will find Provencal from fabrics to pottery, lavender to olive oil, from wardrobe to tables to antique furniture’s to a fine array of French folk art on hand as well as other decorative items. You can begin your shopping with the main shopping street :

Flea Market: at the Place des Carmes on Sunday mornings

Covered Market: at Les Halles- Place Pie on Tuesday and Sunday

Flower Market: at Place des Carmes on Saturday

Farmer’s Market: at chemin de Halage, Barthelasse Island at 4:00pm from May to October

Marketplace: at Rempart Saint Michel on Saturday and Sunday

Leaving the ‘Place du Palais’ you will get to the ‘Place de l’Horloge’ (Clocktower Square). In this square you will not only find the merry-go-round but many bars and restaurants,Also see three interesting houses: the Town Hall, the Jean Vilar House and the Opera.

http://www.londontravel-card.co.uk

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Eurostar Is The Best Mode To Get Travel From London to Nice

At the Vth century, CEMENELUM is left away for the profit of NIKAIA. In 972 a time of deep mutations starts and will be the origin of the traditions and feasts of Nice.

In 1382, a civil war explodes and to escape their victorious rivals, NICE stands under the protection of the County of Savoie. The 17th century, Nice is marked by the explosion of the odd art.

Always faithful to the Duke of Savoie and King of Sardinia in 1720, Nice is invaded by the French revolutionaries in 1792 and the department of the Alps Maritimes is created in 1793.

After a referendum, NICE and its county will definitely unite themselves to FRANCE in 1860. It’s the Starting point of a new economic development: construction of roads and railroad, spectacular increasing demography and urbanization that encourages a Touristic economy.

Now this city of France has got a bunch of attractive glamour in the vision of popular sights and much more regarding the visit perspective.

Nice is the 5th city of France by its number of inhabitants (347 100), 7 192 hectares, out agglomeration, the 2nd tourist pole of France with more then 4 millions of visitors in 2003. It has 7 500 m of beaches, lush by 300 ha of parklands and 150 basins and fountains. It is the 2nd airport of France and the 1st French cruise port. 2nd convention city of France, Cultural city by 18 museums and national galleries (biggest number of museums after Paris), its Opera house, Nice will know how to seduce you and will make you want to come back for more discoveries.

Travel From London to Nice by Eurostar:

Eurostar is the high-speed passenger train from London to Paris & Brussels via the Channel Tunnel. It's run by a consortium of French railways (SNCF), Belgian railways (SNCB) & Eurostar UK Ltd, and started running in 1994. Don't confuse Eurostar with Eurotunnel, the company which owns the Channel Tunnel (Chunnel), whose car-carrying trains shuttle cars, lorries & coaches from one side of the Channel to the other. Eurostar does not carry cars, just passengers. London to Paris by Eurostar is 495 km (307 miles), and takes as little as 2 hours 15 minutes from central London to central Paris at up to 186 mph. This page explains all you need to know about travelling to Paris or Brussels by Eurostar.

Eurostar has adopted a convenient prices series with having 1st and 2nd class journey also day night schedule availability during the travel.

Eurostar fares start at £39 one-way or £69 return from London to Paris or Brussels in 2nd class or £107 one-way, £189 return 1st class.

If you are planning your journey in day time form London to Nice, then hop on the high-speed Eurostar to Nice train from London St pancras International and reach at Paris Gare Du Nord train station in record time of 2hr 15min and then simply station change at Paris, travel on to Nice by high- speed TGV train. High-speed TGV operates 5 trains on a daily basis and it takes around 5 hrs 35 min to reach Nice.

If you are traveling during nighttime and want to travel in relax way then Eurostar London Nice Train via Paris is the way to go. It will take around 30 minutes for transfer from Paris Gare Du Nord to Gared’Austerlitz station, where you will find Lunea Sleeper train to Nice. Lunea Sleeper train departs at 22:25 hours and arrives to Nice at 08:54 hours next day. Total journey time is 12 hours 45 minutes from London to Nice.

Eurostar Fares for London to Nice train starts from as low as £89.50 for a return journey for Standard class and for Leisure Select and Business premier class starts from £119.50 and £240.00 respectively.

Top Hotels in Nice:

1.Le Palais de la Mediterranee:

Le Palais de la Mediterranee is a landmark in Nice, the gateway to the French Alps and the French Riviera, and offers far more than most luxury hotels. Newly opened in 2004 after an ambitious restoration project, today's tribute to the grandeur of the 1930s is a stunning nine stories of imaginative yet sympathetic architecture, innovative contemporary ideas, opulence on a grand scale and a myriad of entertainment and leisure opportunities to suit the most discerning visitors.

2.Hotel La Perouse:

Stylish and with popular appeal in equal measure, Nice possesses the charm of those Mediterranean cities where the relaxed rhythm of life derives as much from the beauty of the town as from its exceptional climate. You will discover many treasures here including the charming hotel LA PEROUSE with its feel of a private residence. Tucked into the hillside below the chateau and just a short walk from the Old Nice, its magical setting overlooks the Mediterranean - a peaceful retreat away from it all, with the city at your feet.

3.Chateau Eza:

Former Residence Of The Swedish Royal Family, Chateau Eza Is An Enchanting Hotel And Restaurant. Pretty As A Postcard, Chateau Eza Clings To The Side Of The Ancient Rock Walls Of Eza, A Thousand-year-old Medieval Village, 1300 Feet Above The Mediterranean Sea. Each Of The 10 Guest Rooms, Which Can Be Reached By Walking Under Stone Passageways Over Ancient Stone Steps, Have Been Newly Decorated And Provide Every Modern Comfort Including Cnn, Vcr And Touch-tone Telephone. The Charmingly Furnished Rooms Feature Stone Fireplaces And Private Balconies With Breathtaking Views Of The Cote D'Azur.

4.Grand Hotel Du Cap-Ferrat:

From The Beginning The Hotel Attracted The International Elite Who Wintered On The Riviera - Princes And Dukes Of The Russian Imperial Family And Other European Royal Houses, Lords And Barons From England, The Great Entrepreneurs Of Finance And Industry, Glittering Literary And Artistic Figures. All Came To Live In The Special Atmosphere Created At The Grand Hotel Du Cap-ferrat In The Years Before The First World War.

The Hotel Has Been Modernized And Renovated With New Fittings And Spectacular Improvements And Is Ready To Meet The Challenges Of Today's International Guests. What Remains Unchanged Is The Essence Of Style, The Superb Service And The Immaculate Environment Which Makes Even The Briefest Sejour A Memorable Experience.

5.Le Mas de Pierre:

In a two-hectare park with century-old olive trees on the doorstep of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Le Mas de Pierre overlooks hills and valleys. Provencal, romantic or colonial villas and rooms are hidden behind the red tiles and white stone of the bastides. As soon as you cross the threshold, you will discover dressers, chests of drawers and pedestal tables lovingly selected from antique dealers.

6.Cap Estel Hotel:

Located on a private 4-acre peninsula with a 180 degree view of the coast line between Nice and Monaco, Cap Estel offers 8 deluxe rooms and 12 suites, its own private beach, indoor/outdoor pools, vast gardens and a state-of-the-art gym. Re-opened in March 2004 after 3 years of renovation, the Cap Estel has once again become one of the most prestigious venues of the Cote d'Azur, offering it's former charm with a new concept.

Cap Estel Hotel, with its 8 deluxe rooms and 12 suites ranging from 50sqm to 500sqm, offers a unique venue on the French Riviera, catering to individual guests as well as to many private events and celebrations.

Amazing attraction in Nice:

1. Cours Saleya Flower Market

Nice's famous Flower Market is one of the best attractions in the whole city. The edges are lined with cafés and souvenir shops, and the stands themselves are packed with amazing produce and myriad flowers. It operates six days a week, replaced on Mondays by a flea and antiques market.

2. Matisse Museum

The lovely and innovative art of Henri Matisse was inspired by the fresh colors and lines of Nice. Just take a look at any of his art peering out of balcony windows, and you will surely see the Riviera shoreline. This vast museum shows Matisse's works from his more traditional early days to the end of his career. There are also some of his personal effects here. The museum gift shop features prints of the artist's works.

3. Vieux Nice, or Old Nice

Old Nice is downright dripping with atmosphere. Its narrow streets are a one-stop shop for take-home finds, such as Provençal wares, household items, wine, gourmet gifts, hip clothing and more. There are numerous restaurants in the area, as well as several fun bars and nightclubs. Be sure to stop off for a delicious ice cream in this neighborhood.

4.Palais Massena:

The Palais Massena was built in the 19th century and features impressionist paintings from the Nice school. The palace, located in the centre Nice France, also contains ceramics and French folk art.

5.Seaside Dining:

Visitors to Nice France enjoy dining at the restaurants located along the French seaside. Wonderful seafood, French wines and Italian and French cuisine can be enjoyed at many seaside restaurants in this Mediterranean city.

6.Nice’s Night life:

The French city of Nice which is located on French Riviera provides great night life for both residents and tourists. Many wonderful restaurants, bars and clubs can be found in France's popular vacation destination.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Why Make A Visit From London To Marseille

Travel From London to Marseille by Train:

Though there is evidence of prehistoric habitation of the Marseille area, the town was put on the map by the Phoenicians, who established a trading post on the north side of the harbour in around 600 BC. The town prospered and came under the rule of the Greeks and then the Romans, who built massive fortifications.

In Ancient and the Present this town has been born a new and innovative changes with having amazing attractions and much more.

As with any important port on the Mediterranean coast in the 1940s, Marseille received a hammering during WWII. Panier, the oldest section of the town, received special attention and was reduced to rubble. After the war had ended, Marseille once again bounced back healthier than ever, supplying building materials necessary to repair a devastated Europe.

During the latter part of the 20th century , it was not a good experience with the innovation in the way of growing city. The conditions of the streets, housing and infrastructure became rundown, so much so that Marseille was very much one of the last places tourists wanted to visit. Even after getting these trouble Marseille got a innovation rather than the old factors, In recent years however, Marseille has been reborn, with new life and money being invested in the older districts. Marseille is gradually recovering its former glory, and with the ongoing renovations, clamp down on crime and improvements to facilities and amenities, the city has become one of France’s most popular destinations for holidaymakers.

London To Marseille by Eurostar:

The best travel mode “Eurostar” that provides a comfortable and convenient travel from London to Marseille.

The journey time for Eurostar London to Marseille train is around 7hrs.
Eurostar has becomes lifeline of the people traveling from
London to Paris Train, Brussels, Lyon, Marseille, Lille and many other European Destinations. Marseille by Eurostar is the most reliable, convenient and most comfortable way to travel within Europe.
Moreover, all Eurostar trains are 100% smoke free and its high punctuality of 95% makes it the ideal mode of transport within Europe. There are various traveling options from London to Marseille. But Eurostar to Marseille is the best choice to reach your destination in relax and comfortable manner.

Eurostar London to Marseille train departs from London
St Pancras International train station and reach Paris Gare Du Nord station in record time of 2hr 15 min and then simply station change at Paris, travel on to high-speed TGV train to Marseille. You have to change the station at Paris by taking the RER D to Gare de Lyon where you will find the TGV to Marseille.


Hotels in Marseille:

1.Holiday Inn Express:

This Holiday Inn Express is opposite Saint-Charles Train Station and a 10-minute walk from the Vieux Port in Marseille’s city centre. It offers en suite rooms and free Wi-Fi.

Rooms at Holiday Inn Express Marseille Saint Charles are soundproofed and feature a modern décor. They are equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and on-demand movies. Tea and coffee is provided in each room.

Marseille Saint Charles’s bar, Le Mistral, serves light meals 24 hours a day and has an outdoor terrace. Additional facilities include a business centre, garden and a 24-hour reception desk.

2.Radisson Blu hotel:

This Radisson Blu hotel is located opposite Marseille’s Old Port. It offers 4-star accommodation, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness room. Free Wi-Fi is available.

The air-conditioned rooms at Radisson Blu Marseille Vieux Port are decorated according to a Provencal or African theme. They are equipped with a private bathroom and flat-screen TV with cable channels. Some rooms have a view of the port and a Nespresso coffee machine. All are accessible by lift.

Radisson Blu Marseille Vieux Port has a lounge and solarium. It is partnered with the 5 Mondes Spa. Additional facilities include a 24-hour front desk, fitness centre and terrace overlooking Saint-Nicholas Citadel and the Frioul Islands. There are bicycles available, at no additional cost, for guests’ use.

3.Adagio Marseille République:

Adagio Marseille is located in central Marseille, a 10-minute walk from the Vieux Port. It offers modern-style apartments, with a private bathroom, LCD TV and kitchen in each.

Each apartment also has air-conditioning, satellite TV and a radio. All kitchens include a cooker and a dishwasher. Guests of the Adagio can enjoy fresh coffee from the coffee maker in each apartment.

Marseille Saint-Charles Train Station is a 10-minute walk from the Adagio Marseille République. Jules Guesde Metro is a 3-minute walk from the residence, offering fast access throughout Marseille.

4.Citéa Marseille Saint Charles:

It is Located just 100 metres from the Saint Charles SNCF Train Station, the Citéa offers spacious and air-conditioned accommodation with fully-equipped kitchenettes. Marseilles city centre is just a 10-minute walk away.

Additional facilities at the Citéa Marseille residence include a 24-hour reception and private parking. A buffet breakfast is served every morning.

Marseille Provence Airport is 26 km from the Citéa, which is accessible by a shuttle bus that stops 50 metres from the residence.

5.Le Pharo:

Le Pharo is located opposite Pharo Congress Centre and a 10-minute walk from the Vieux Port. It offers 4-star accommodation, a swimming pool and restaurant. Free Wi-Fi is available.

Guests have free access to Newhotel of Marseille - Le Pharo’s solarium and outdoor swimming pool that is open 24 hours a day.

Saint-CharlesTrain Station is 2.5 km from Newhotel of Marseille - Le Pharo and Marseille Provence Airport is 25 km away. Guests receive preferential rates at a nearby car park.

Amazing Attraction in Marseille:

1.Chateau d'If: A beautiful 16th century fortress, built on a small island just off the coast of Marseille, Chateau d'If was originally built to protect the city from invasion. Later it became a state prison, and was made famous by Alexandre Dumas' "Count of Monte Cristo".

2.Vieux Port (Old Port): The Vieux Port is the historical port of Marseilles. It was once a great commercial center for boats arriving from Africa. Presently the port is used as the destination for cruise ships from Europe and other parts of the world. Jardin du Pharo- A popular tourist attraction in Marseille, Jardin du Pharo houses the beautiful Chateau du Pharo, built by Napoleon. It offers a commanding view of the Vieux Port.

3. Cathedrale de la Nouvelle Major: La Joliette, 13002 Marseille, France, FR
This splendid cathedral was built under the orders of Napoleon III in the 19th century and cost an astonishing 14 million gold francs. Designed in the Romano-Byzantine style, it took over 20 years to raise the funds to finish the interior, which can hold a 3,000-strong congregation. The Cathedrale de la Nouvelle Majo features numerous ornate sculptures and mosaics, as well as some rather magnificent sea views.

4.Centre de la Vieille Charité: - 2 Rue de la Charité, 13002 Marseille, France, FR
It is Located in the Panier district, this fine 17th-century building originally started out life as a workhouse and hospice. Nowadays, the building is used as a cultural and exhibition centre, and also houses Marseille's Archaeological Museum and the Musée des Arts Africains, Océaniens and Amérindiens, amongst other attractions. Particularly attractive is the main courtyard and its Italian baroque-style domed chapel.

5. asilique Notre Dame de La Garde: Colline de la Garde, 13006 Marseille, France, FR
The most distinctive of Marseille's sights and one that should not be missed is the Romano-Byzantine cathedral of Notre Dame de La Garde. This imposing 19th-century building sits on Marseille's highest point, just south of the Vieux Port. Most stunning of all is the 9-metre / 30-foot high golden Virgin perched on top of the basilica's bell tower. The bell itself is impressive, measuring 2.5 metres / 8 feet in height and weighing in at 8,324 kg. Inside, the domed basilica is intricately decorated with coloured marble and murals. The crypt is also open to visitors.