Airlie Beach mainland accommodation includes motels, resorts, units, luxury town houses, caravan and camp grounds, on site vans, resort style luxury apartments, fully self contained suites, bungalows, villas, ocean front, lodges and flats.

When making an accommodation enquiry please indicate your required dates, number of guests, how many adults and/or children, any special requirements (access, in-house restaurant etc...) and expected price range.





We will then access the entire Whitsundays availability and locate the most suitable options at today's latest discount rate, and send you photos, layout, prices and availability that is best suited to your request.

If your group or family is looking for self-contained house style accommodation in Airlie Beach then a holiday house rental may be your best option. Our selection of properties varies greatly so you are sure to find one that meets you needs.


HOLIDAY ACCOMODATION
Everyone deserves a relaxing break now and again, and the best getaways in Australia can now be found in northern Queensland. The Whitsundays are a particularly scenic region that caters to a variety of travellers. Whether you are visiting the area on a budget or are searching for the very best five star hotels, there is definitely an extensive range of choice suitable for all. The mainland boasts a number of different facilities from resorts and motels to van leisure parks. There are also deals on apartments suitable for student accommodation for those who are searching for a place to lay their bags that will not cost a fortune. From campgrounds to self contained suites, the choice is really up to you. Regardless of where you wish to stay within the Whitsundays area, we can help you out. Our site is aimed at making holiday organisation that much easier, as everything that you need is right here in the one location. Our range of options is listed within our webpages and we recommend that you take a look at our holiday apartments, caravan parks and resort choices today. Once you have found what you are looking for, you can make your booking over the phone, by email or through the instant messenger application found here on our website. Our employees are currently on hand and are more than willing to help you make all of the necessary arrangements for you, your family and friends to experience the ultimate Queensland getaway.


EXCITING HOLIDAY PACKAGES
Apart from simply allowing you to book where you are staying, we also offer a number of getaway deals in which everything is arranged for you to experience the best of what this sunny region has to offer. Not only will your hotel, resort or motel be organised for you, but everything else will be prepared as well. This includes activities such as seaplane rides, sailing trips and buffet lunches. How does that sound for an easy holiday? Not only will you stay at some of the best luxury accommodation in the Whitsundays, Hamilton Island and Queensland, but you will also be given the chance to go out and experience some of the most exciting, natural wonders that Australia has to offer. If this sounds tempting, you will be pleased to hear that you can book all of this directly through our handy website. Forget about paying your local travel agency a visit and simply make all of the necessary arrangements from the comfort of your own home. Before you know it, you will be setting foot on a plane to one of the most remarkable tourist destinations that this country has. Whether you simply relax at your holiday accomodation or go out and explore the beaches and islands in the area is completely up to you of course. It is your time and your holiday and you should definitely spend it as you see fit. Fortunately, the Whitsundays is a destination suitable for travellers of all types and personalities.

Dubai is the equivalent word of business and extravagance that turned into a heaven for visitors. Known as the city of superlatives and the surprising, it has changed its horizon with innovative and enlivened structural planning.






Home to the absolute most astounding cutting edge uber extends on the planet, Dubai has the world's tallest building, the tallest lodging, the biggest shopping center, the notable Palm and World Islands, furthermore offers a sprouting arrangement and a ski resort amidst the desert. So how about we wonder us with the marvels of Dubai:




1 – Burj al Arab

Burj al Arab

Burj Al Arab is the main "7-star" inn on the planet, offering a Skyview Bar, a submerged restaurant and an open air tennis court. It is additionally a standout amongst the most notable images of Dubai and a standout amongst the most captured landmarks on the planet. Intended to look like the sail of an Arabian dhow transport, the building ascents out of the Persian Gulf, connecting a stature of 321 meters. Around evening time, it is lit up by choreographed shading models of water and flame.

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2 – The Palm Islands

Jumeirah Palm Island

The Palm Islands are the biggest manufactured islands on the planet and a standout amongst the most driven advancements on earth. Their interesting palm-tree shapes help to add 520 kilometers to Dubai's coastline. These astonishing man-made islands are viewed as the eighth miracle of the world. The Palm Trilogy, which involves the Palm Jebel Ali, the Palm Deira and the Palm Jumeirah, houses extravagance inns, elite beachside homes, water amusement parks, marinas, and in addition recreation and excitement focuses.

3 – Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa

Extending to 828 meters, Burj Khalifa is perceived as the tallest building and synthetic structure on the planet. The tower likewise contains the world's most elevated mosque on the 158th floor (of 160), the world's most elevated swimming pool, on the 76th floor, and the world's most astounding survey stage, on the 124th floor. The pyramid-formed high rise houses fine 900 homes, office suites, and also the prestigious Armani Hotel.

4 – Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina is the biggest man-made marina on the planet. It is a counterfeit channel city, where the waters of the Persian Gulf were brought into the 3 km site. Its waterfront gives safe house to several yachts, furthermore incorporates a 7 km long passerby walkway, with a string of outside bistros, bars and restaurants. The marina was produced to make a substantial open space fit to oblige a populace of 120,000 in its private towers and manors on a passerby amicable urban group.

5 – Infinity Tower

Interminability Tower Dubai

Interminability Tower is the world's tallest elevated structure with a spot of 90˚. The extraordinary, just about finished, high rise spirals by an astonishing 90 degrees from its base to its crown, 305 meters (1,000 feet) over the ground. The 80-story high private tower has dynamic waterfront sees, which depend of its height. Amazingly, there is not a solitary structural column anyplace inside the building.

6 – Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall is the biggest strip mall on the planet by territory. Its 1,200 retail outlets, retail chains, more than 160 sustenance and drink outlets, and gigantic excitement zone, pull in more than 750,000 guests consistently. The shopping center has likewise a 250-room extravagance lodging, and even a huge aquarium in it, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, with the world's biggest survey board. Outside the shopping center, there's the fantastic Dubai Fountain with its moving waters.

7 – Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

With its striking wave-like outline, the five-star Jumeirah Beach Hotel is one of the structural marvels that graces Dubai's horizon. Standing 93 meters high and 275 meters in length, the 26-story building is bended both in arrangement and on height, speaking to a shocking breaking wave. It offers 20 restaurants and bars, its own private shoreline, and boundless access to the celebrated Wild Wadi Water Park. The lodging is neighboring the sail-molded Burj Al Arab and this mix emulates a sail exploring against a wave.

8 – Dubai Fountain

Dubai Fountain

Dubai Fountain is the biggest moving wellspring on the planet. It is lit up by 6,600 lights and 25 shading projectors that make a visual range of more than 1,000 unique attractions. Its light emission can be seen from more than 20 miles away, and is obvious from space, making it the brightest spot in the Middle East. This astounding 275 meters-in length (900 ft.) wellspring can spread 83,000 liters (22,000 gallons) of water and shoots water flies as high as 152 m (500 ft.) into the air in a state of harmony with traditional, Arabic and world music.

9 – Atlantis The Palm Hotel & Resort

Atlantis The Palm Hotel & Resort Dubai

The indulgent Atlantis The Palm Hotel houses 2 submerged suites that give sees from carpet to-roof windows into a tidal pond loaded with 65,000 marine animals, including sharks. Significant attractions incorporate the Aquaventure Waterpark, where riders experience close vertical drop down before being launch through a shark-filled tidal pond – the Lost Chambers, a maze of submerged passages loaded with marine life and displayed on the structural engineering of Atlantis – the sizable Ambassador Lagoon, which is loaded with 65,000 marine creatures – and the Dolphin Bay, in which visitors can swim and collaborate with dolphins. With more than 1,500 visitor rooms, the complex likewise emphasizes a 1.4 km unblemished white shoreline, world-class cooking and extravagance boutiques.

10 – Ski Dubai

Ski Dubai

Ski Dubai is a 22,500-square-meter indoor ski resort (equal to 3 football fields) that offers the unfathomable chance to appreciate genuine snow in the desert throughout the entire year. Placed inside the Mall of the Emirates, it offers a 85-meter-high indoor mountain with 5 runs that fluctuate in trouble, tallness and angle, including a 400-meter-long run with a fall of more than 60 meters and the world's first indoor dark run. It additionally has a 3,000-square-meter Snow Park play territory: the biggest indoor snow stop on the planet.

11 – Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Spotted at the inside of the huge Dubai Mall, Dubai Aquarium is the biggest suspended aquarium on the planet. This miracle gives interesting perspectives of 33,000 submarine creatures behind the world's biggest acrylic survey board and the 48-meter long aquarium stroll through passage. It additionally offers a scope of extraordinary relaxation encounters, for example, glass-base pontoon rides, shark jumps and pen snorkeling.

12 – Princess Tower

Princess Tower Dubai

The Princess Tower is perceived by the Guinness World Records as the world's tallest private building following 2012. Towering over Dubai Marina horizon at 414 meters (1,355 ft.), the 101-story high rise houses 763 extravagance lofts, a standout amongst the most extravagant properties in the city, and also eight retail locations.

13 – The World Islands

The World Islands Dubai

The World or World Islands is an accumulation of 300 synthetic islands built fit as a fiddle of a world guide, arranged 4 kilometers (2.5 mi) off the shore of Dubai. Made from huge amounts of sand shake, the whole improvement is a zone that covers 6 by 9 kilometers (3.7 by 5.6 mi) and is encompassed by an oval-formed jetty island. Every island is available to be purchased and prepared for improvement. Its Earth's shape is unmistakable just by satellite or from the highest point of the world's tallest building, the Burg Khalifa.

14 – JW Marriott Marquis Dubai Hotel

JW Marriott Marquis Dubai

The rich JW Marriott Marquis Dubai Hotel is the tallest lodging on the planet. The 72-story, 355 meter (1,165 ft.) high rise complex spreads over two famous towers and gimmicks 14 sustenance and drink outlets, roof bars, a business focus, a 3,700 m2 (40,000 sq. ft.) spa and wellbeing club, and retail outlets, a swimming pool, and a gym.

15 – Dubai Miracle Garden

Dubai Miracle Garden

Is it a wonder or a delusion? Unbelievably grew amidst the desert, Dubai Miracle Garden is the biggest common blossom cultivate on the planet. The 72,000-square-meter vivid enclosure has more than 45 million blooms formed into the states of hearts, stars, igloos, pyramids, blossom decked vintage autos, bend molded walkways etc, which will change every season. It has entered the Guinness Book of Records with the world's greatest bloom clock, furthermore wants to be perceived as having the longest mass of blooms

THE SCENERY

Queenstown is a remarkable New Zealand destination for universal travelers settled on the shores of the clear as can be Lake Wakatipu and underneath the superb New Zealand Alps.




Lake Wakatipu Queesntown

The apparently calm and beautiful town is a high resort spotted in south west of New Zealand's South Island is in the heart of probably the most wonderful landscape in the nation. It offers awesome and excellent perspectives of the close-by mountain extents, including one of the Queenstown's postcards, The Remarkables.

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The Remarkables - Queenstown

The Remarkables | Photo by: Xtine [alter ego]

Individuals say that the spot got its name after a neighborhood gold digger announced that this town was ideal for Queen Victoria, because of its dazzling landscape.

The Remarkables Queenstown

Queenstown and the encompassing territory view is so "Out of this World" that it contains numerous areas utilized as a part of the taping of the Lord of the Rings film set of three, and also the 2009 film X-Men Origins: Wolverine and a few others.

Heaven - Queenstown




Heaven

THINGS TO DO

Widely acclaimed for its enterprise tourism, Queenstown acquires the title of "Experience Capital of the World", and this is advocated by the amassing of adrenalin-built exercises in light of offer and the way that it is the place current bungy hopping was created, despite the fact that it is getting to be ordinary all as far and wide as possible.

Bungy Jump Queenstown

The Ledge Bungy – Queenstown

The town gives a great scope of fascinating vacation destinations and exercises to do no make a difference what the season, on lake, land or noticeable all around. The vast majority of them can be encountered lasting through the year in Queenstown, and in winter and early spring (June to October) the locale has a percentage of the best skiing and snowboarding conditions on the planet and offers four principle mountain skifields (Cardrona Alpine Resort, Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Treble Cone).

Queenstown Skiing

Mountain Ski Field – Queenstown

There you can bungy bounce, gorch swing, ski or snowboard, skydive, paraglide, plane pontoon, kayak, white water flatboat, jetski, mountain bicycle, drive quadbikes, stallion ride, trek and take a grand flight.

Plane Boat - Queenstown

Shotover Jet – Jet Boat Queenstown

Furthermore, in case you're into a more casual pace, simply appreciate the wine taste visits, eat in some widely acclaimed restaurants, play golf on some beautiful fairways, or unwind on nature strolls, the grand flights and travels, taking in the endless lakes, hurrying waterways, and dazzling elevated view.

Golf Field Queenstown

Millbrook Golf Course

Offices

In case you're wanting to do a few exercises, Queenstown has a wealth of visit administrators and travel specialists that can consolidate them in bundles, making it less expensive.

The residential area has a decent choice of lodging, running from hiker inns up to extravagance resorts, and a fine scope of shops and restaurants also. There is some extraordinary nightlife, because of the measure of vacationers, which are around the local area throughout the entire year. During the time Queenstown plays host to various occasions, including the Queenstown Winter Festival and Central Otago Wine and Food Festival.

Queenstown is additionally an incredible base area to investigate the marvels of Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound, the vivid noteworthy mining town of Arrowtown, and to have a flight encounter around the Southern Alps and the close-by ice sheets.

Lake Wakatipu Queenstown

Lake Wa

Airlie Beach is a 23 km. drive east off the coastal Highway and is a colourful holiday town looking out over Pioneer Bay and the perfect mainland base to explore the Whitsunday islands.



You will find a wide range of accommodation here, from budget backpackers hostels to camping and tropical luxury resorts, and also Airlie Lagoon which provides stinger free safe swimming with lifeguards on duty and a pool for the kids.
On Saturday the weekly markets are held where you'll find local arts and crafts, fruit and vegetables etc.
There is a huge choice of restaurants and cafes and a lively bar scene to party the nights away.
Airlie Beach Lagoon in the centre of town provides year round stinger free swimming and cooling off in a large man-made lagoon.
Between June and September, giant humpback whales migrate up the coastline which you will be able to view from one of the many cruises that run from Airlie Beach.





There are attractions on land too; Conway and Dryander National Parks have water falls for a refreshing swim and walking tracks through rainforest.
Or catch a helicopter ride to a deserted island for a champagne picnic, go parasailing, fishing or sky diving, the choices are endless.
.If you're in Airlie Beach and you feel like something different or need to cool down then head for the Conway National Park. Take the Conway Beach Road off Shute Harbour Road to the west of Cannonvale and only a short drive south of Airlie Beach you will find the Cedar Creek Falls surrounded by rainforest in a beautiful and mountainous area on the edge of the Conway National Park. The waterfall drops 12 metres into a stream which is perfect for swimming.

Also some of the bars in Airlie Beach organize cane toad races, you can place your bet on which poisonous South American frog will cross the line first, very entertaining!

The Whitsunday Islands are surrounded by a Marine Park and most of the 74 islands have National Park status. The islands are remnants of a coastal mountain range that was submerged when sea levels rose at the end of the last ice age.
The beaches of the Whitsunday Islands are simply spectacular, and Whitehaven beach has often been named as the most beautiful beach in the world.
Most of the islands have National Park status, while a 35,000 sq. km marine park stretches from around Sarina in the south to Cape Upstart to the north. Most of them are uninhabited but eight of them have the ten island resorts that made this destination world famous, such as Brampton Island, Daydream Island, Hamilton Island, Hayman Island, Long Island, South Molle Island.

The Whitsunday islands cater for all types of holidays; family holidays, action-packed holidays, sailing, lazing on the beach, romantic getaways, and this is also a popular destination for weddings.
Sailing is a very popular activity here, even a total beginner can rent a sailing boat and with the abundance of islands navigation is a breeze and there are plenty of choice in good sheltered anchorages, or you can take it easy and book on a charter where someone else will do the sailing for you while you relax with a glass of champagne.

Hamilton Island is the largest inhabited island in the Whitsundays and the only island with its own airport catering for direct commercial and charter flights, otherwise you will fly in to Whitsunday Coast Airport at Prosperine, which is only a short drive from Airlie Beach. Lots of activities can be enjoyed on Hamilton Island, including fishing, helicopter rides, scuba diving, parasailing and much more. There is heaps of accommodation on the island and a good choice of restaurants.

Daydream Island is a very small island with a resort orientated to familes named the Daydream Island International Resort. Heaps of activities here too.

Hayman Island is a small island of only 4 square km. and the northernmost of the Whitsunday Island group, it has a very exclusive resort too. Some great views and beautiful scenery is to be found along the walking trails on this island and great snorkelling and scuba diving is found in the little coves and along the coral beaches of this island.

Hook Island is the second largest island of the Whitsunday Island Group, and is filled with spectacular National Park and fabulous beaches. You can stay at the Hook Island Wilderness Resort or at the camping ground on the island.

Lindeman Island is one of the most southern Whitsunday Islands. There is a Club Med Resort and the rest of the island is National park.

Long Island is mostly National Park with bush walking tracks through rainforest. You will find three resorts on this island, Club Crocodile Resort and Long Island Palm Bay Hideaway at the north end of the island and South Long Island Nature Lodge at the south end.

South Molle Island houses the South Molle Island Resort and has some good walks around the island's National Park and of course, like any island here, fantastic beaches.

Whitsunday Island is the biggest of all of the Whitsunday Islands and has fantastic beaches, but the entire island is National Park and there is no accommodation on the island. You can camp at several camp sites on this island with Dugong, Joes, and Sawmill Beaches offering water supplies.

Annual events in Airlie Beach and Whitsundays

If you get to Airlie Beach at the right time of year you may be able to witness, or participate in, some of these annual events:

Whitsunday Fantasea Reef Festival - usually held first half of November, a non-profit community festival that has been held since 2001 and celebrates one of nature's most amazing creations - the Great Barrier Reef! Many activities are held, plenty of food and drinks are available and fireworks on the foreshore close it off.

HOTFM Great Whitsunday Fun Race - usually held early September since 1977, this is a huge weekend for Airlie Beach when 200 yachts of all kinds run in this fun race.

Hahn Premium Race Week - usually held in August at Hamilton Island, this is Australia's largest offshore yachting event. Large numbers of Aussie and international yachts converge on Hamilton Island for a week of sailing and partying.

Airlie Beach Triathlon - usually held in September, superfit competitors from far and wide flock to Airlie Beach. The Whitsunday Triathlon Club was formed in 1999 and ever since has organized this annual event. Activities include a sprint distance, 750 metre swim, 20 kilometre cycle, five kilometre run, beach volleyball and sport expo.

Airlie Beach Food & Wine Festival - in April the restaurants of Airlie Beach get together for a great evening filled with fine food and Australian wines. Proceeds from the event go to the Whitsunday Police Citizens Youth Club.


Airlie Beach weather: from April till October the daytime temperatures vary from 20 to 24 degrees C in the day and from 14 to 18 degrees at night. During the summer from November to March the daytime temperatures run between 24 to 30 degrees with nights from 18 to 26. The ocean waters remain at a constant 20 to 22 degrees throughout the year.


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Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s great fishing, sailing and holiday destinations located in the beautiful east coast of the Northland region. It has one of the best maritime parks in New Zealand, featuring an amazing range of marine life, such as whales, penguins, dolphins and much more, in an area with 144 islands and bays.




The bay itself is an irregular 16 km-wide inlet. It is a natural harbour, which has several arms that extend into the land. The area has several towns scattered around the coast, each one with unique culture and lifestyle, combining both great outdoor experience and significant historic sites. The main centres include Kerikeri, Paihia, Waitangi, Opua and Russell.




Paihia is the main visitor centre for Bay of Islands, with friendly locals and happy cafés, and is where many sightseeing cruises by both land and sea begin.

Kerikeri is a fertile orchard town on the northern extremity of the Bay. The district, the earliest permanent settlement in New Zealand, bears some of the country’s oldest buildings, bush walks, several arts and crafts galleries and local cuisine.

If you arrive in Bay of Islands by sea, Opua is your port, with cosmopolitan marinas and anchorages with full chandlery, lively cafes and bars. It is where a number of charter companies offer yachts you can sail yourself.

There are plenty of recreational activities to do in this area, whether you’re seeking for thrilling adventure or just to rest. Try skydiving, parasailing, quad biking, horse trekking, scuba diving, kayaking, paddling a waka or taking one of the many well-maintained walking tracks that provide breathtaking views throughout the bay.

If you want to relax and marvel at the majestic scenery, spend your time on a secluded unspoilt beach with clear turquoise coloured waters on some of the 144 stunning islands, taking a walk or just lazing around listening to the songs of seabirds.

Charter a yacht or launch, cruise uninhabited islands with lagoons and natural rock caves, take a scenic flight, take a guided tour through historical sites, go fishing or swim right up close with the dolphins in their natural habitat.

With the warmest water in New Zealand and the friendliest dolphin species (Bottlenose), Bay of Islands is the best place to experience swimming with dolphins.

One of the most popular attractions in Bay of Islands is the Hole in the Rock, in the beautiful Motukokako Island, off Cape Brett. You can take a boat trip through the hole in a huge rock and explore deep into the spectacular Grand Cathedral Cave.

Some tours travel at speeds of up to 100kms, the most thrilling way to see this famous icon. Here you can also swim with the local common and bottlenose dolphins.

The beautiful Cape Brett Lighthouse can be reached by walking a coastal track or seen by taking a boat to the hole in the rock.

Urupukapuka is the largest of over 140 islands in the bay. It is a unique place to visit and relax the whole day enjoying time on the stunning beaches. There are many clear water sand beaches and diving is particularly good on the east coast where there is plentiful reef life. This island is also full of historic and archaeological sites, ideal to explore both Maori and European local history.

Another attraction in Bay of Islands is the Motuarohia (Roberton) Island. The most photographed scene in the Bay is distinguished by its two glorious lagoons. There is a track that leads to the top of the island, where you can get spectacular aerial views of the narrow strip of land and sand with the twin lagoons.

The Kerikeri Mission House, the country’s oldest house built in 1821, and the wonderful Mission’s Stone Store dating from 1832, New Zealand’s oldest stone building, are regarded as the “Cradle of the Nation”, and are a must for all visiting this region.

Just a few kilometres from Kerikeri centre and Kerikeri Mission House, it’s the Rainbow Falls, a beautiful 27m waterfall where the water tumbles into a pool surrounded by native bush.

Bay of Islands is a great base for exploring all of the Far North. You can travel north to Cape Reinga – the lighthouse where the Pacific Ocean meets the Tasman Sea, Tepaki Sand Dunes and Ninety-Miles beach, which is actually 55 miles (88 km) long.



The rich history of Bay of Islands makes it the perfect place to find out why this region is considered to be the birthplace of New Zealand as a bi-cultural nation. It was where the famous Treaty of Waitangi became the founding document for the new nation.

In Waitangi, visit the Maori Whare Runanga (Meeting House), which is a fully carved construction with carvings representing the major Maori tribes, and the largest Maori War Canoe in the world, the Ngatokimatawhaorua.

The North Island was among the first islands in the Seychelles archipelago to be discovered, in 1609. Now, more than 400 years later, the island has managed to keep its absolutely amazing look and all of those who had the chance to visit it agreed that it can’t be far from what we usually call Heaven on Earth. And if you think their reactions are exaggerated, just look at the photos below and think again.




From 1826 to 1970 the North Island belonged to the Beaufond family from Reunion and all this time the island was used for different plantations of fruits and spice plants and also as a source of guano, fish oil and coconuts. However, in 1970 the island was sold and the new owner completely neglected it, the island becoming invaded by wild plants and animals, many of them not original from this area. In 2003 things have changed and the island was bought by Wilderness Safaris, a South African company focused on eco tourism, whose management decided that the island’s initial beauty is what must be drawn into tourists’ attention.

North Island Seychelles Luxury Resort

The plant and wild life preservation program paid off immediately and the 11 luxury villas placed in this wilderness oasis is everything a tourist who just wants to relax is looking for. And it’s no coincidence that in the past 8 years, since the island has been completely transformed, it became an attractive destination for newlyweds looking all over the world looking for a perfect place to spend their honeymoon.

As you probably know by now, the United Kingdom’s capital will host the 2012 Olympics, one of the most important sports events in the world. And since the games’ debut is getting closer and closer, preparations in London are also getting more frantic. In the year when London will host the Olympic Games for the third time (after 1908 and 1948), 10 impressive projects will be inaugurated, signed by famous architects, that will change the city’s face forever.



Shard London Bridge
Shard London Tower

Previously known as the London Bridge Tower, the “transparent” 72-story (95-story if we include plant floors) sky scraper was designed by famous architect Renzo Piano and when it will be finished, this year, will break all of London’s records. With its 1,017-ft height (310 meters), The Shard will become the tallest building in Europe and will feature 44 elevators, offices, apartments, restaurants, shops and a Shangri-La luxury hotel. A real vertical city, that cost more than 2 billion Euros ($2.6 billion) and where 10,000 people will work.
London Aquatics Center

The impressive swimming facility was designed by Zaha Hadid specifically for the Olympics and it was inaugurated last year. The roof is 11,200 square feet and the entire project’s cost was $385 million, three times more than initially estimated. But we have to admit, it’s worth it, because it looks absolutely amazing, the giant curved structured having a total capacity of 17,500 spectators.
The Pinnacle (Bishopsgate Tower)
London The Pinnacle

The 945-ft (288 meters) 64-story building was designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox and it will stand right in the middle of London’s “heart”, between Bishopgate and St. Mary Axe. The aerodynamic façade will be made of two glass layers, one on the exterior (protects the structure from wind) and one on the interior (sealed, waterproof and thermal isolation). Unfortunately, even though construction began in 2008, the financial crisis seriously affected building schedule, and after several delays, it looks like the building won’t be ready by Olympics, the inauguration being scheduled for January 2013.
BBC Broadcasting House
BBC Broadcasting House London

The facility’s “piece de resistance” is a 43,000 sq.-ft. “newsroom”, designed like a movie set. The new building will be home to BBC News, Music, Radio and World Service and is currently being built besides the broadcaster’s historical headquarters built in the 1930s. The new Broadcasting House was designed by MJP Architects, features 861,000 sq.-ft. of studios, editorial and offices and when completed will become one of the most advanced production centers in the world.
Tate Modern 2
London Tate Modern 2

After Tate Modern, the old power station on the River Thames, became a world symbol of contemporary art, the same architects, Herzog & de Meuron also designed Tate Modern 2, an extension of the existing facility. The new futuristic building, an eco-friendly jewel will rise where the power station’s fuel tanks used to be. While the original project was designed as a glass stepped pyramid, it was modified and now features a brick façade, to match the original power station’s appearance. The project cost almost $350 million and is scheduled to be opened before the Olympic Games.
Seal House London
London Seal House

This building featuring offices and shops is located on the Thames’ bank, close to the London Bridge, and its evolution has been quite difficult, especially after the architect working on this project, David Chipperfield, had to rearrange the four upper floors. Despite these drawbacks, the building will be ready until the Olympics.
W Hotel Leicester Square
W Hotel Leicester Square

The five-star W Hotel in Leicester Square opened its gates in 2010. Located right in the “heart” of London, the “curved” luxury hotel features 192 rooms and was designed by architecture firm Jestico&Whiles. The building has a cement structure and is covered in transparent glass and according to chief architect John Whiles, it is a “jewel in the necklace of light that defines the West End.”
One Hyde Park
One Hyde Park London

The most exclusive area in London will get this new two-pavilion glass and steel complex featuring 86 ultra-luxury apartments. The residential area will be connected through four other pavilions (with different heights) with three street-level areas containing stores, located across the street from Knightsbridge. The $1.5 billion project was designed by Rogers Stirk Harbour&Partners and among its most notable residents there are the Prime Minister of Qatar, Kylie Minogue and Ukrainian billionaire Rinat Akhmetov.
King’s Cross Station
London King's Cross Station

Last month, the modernized London’s King’s Cross station was opened to public as part of one of the most ambitious and expensive projects going on in the city, the King’s Cross Central. Designed by John McAslan&Partners, the new King’s Cross station combines the original Victorian façade with a modern atrium featuring a curved semi-transparent roof.

Whether it’s called subway, underground, U-bahn or metro, underground trains is perhaps the most popular public transportation in big cities all around the world. By taking the subway you usually get rid of one of the biggest problems faced by large cities today, which is horrible car traffic. However, even though you get to your destination a lot faster, for tourists, they clearly aren’t as attractive as surface transport, because you can’t actually see anything. And who wants to go somewhere without being able to enjoy the place? But there are some places in the world where the subway itself is an attraction, because there are some stations that simply make you say “Wow!”. Let’s take a look at some of them, considered by many the most beautiful subway stations in the world.

T-Centralen Station, Stockholm, Sweden






Built in 1975, the T-Centralen Centralen (where “T” comes from Tunnelbana, the Swedish word for “subway”) is Stockholm’s main station and is considered unique in the world because those who built it decided to keep the “raw” aspect of the rock carved walls. So they didn’t apply any finishing touches, instead chose to paint directly on the rock. But that’s not all, because the T-Centralen is only the highlight of Sweden’s subway network, because out of the 100 subway stations, 90 are decorated by 150 different artists.
Dulferstrasse Station, Munich, Germany



Munich’s subway was opened in 1972 and many of its stations are beautifully designed, with some of them featuring a minimalistic design, while others are decorated with art pieces or feature interesting architecture. The Dulferstrasse station, while featuring a typical, classic German look, is decorated with an entire palette of colors, which combined with the special lighting create the illusion of a huge rainbow.
Komsomolskaya Station, Moscow, Russia



When it comes to subway stations, one of the most fascinating cities in the world is Russia’s capital, Moscow. With more than 190 miles of subway and 186 stations, is the world’s third most trafficked rapid transit system. And choosing which station to feature in this article is a tough call, because many of them are simply breathtaking. But the most beautiful and famous one is probably the Komsomolskaya station, located below the square with the same name, one of the most crowded places in Moscow. The station could successfully compete at any time against any luxury castle hall, being decorated with artworks created by Russia’s most famous artists and lit by incredible crystal chandeliers (each one weighing a few tons). But, like I said, this is not the only beautiful station in Moscow, other examples being the Novoslobodskaya station (decorated with 32 stained glass art pieces manually created in Lithuania) or the Kievskaya station (Moscow’s first subway station, once considered “the pearl of the Soviet empire”).
Central Park Station, Kaohsiung, Taiwan



Located in Taiwan’s second largest city, Kaohsiung, the Central Park station was opened in 2008 and it draws its name from the nearby Central Park. It was designed by famous British architect Richard Rogers which managed to create an “outside” feeling to the underground construction, by using a lot colors and placing grass areas and artificial sunflowers around the place. If you are staying in Kaohsiung, don’t forget to book your travel accommodation through Expedia to get the best deals.
Canary Wharf Station, London



Another fabulous subway station is the Canary Wharf, the busiest London Underground station outside Central London, serving the Canary Wharf business district. The station was opened in 1999 and it impresses not only with its huge dimensions (it’s often compared to a cathedral and it was once actually used to celebrate a wedding) but also with its modern design featuring a lot of glass and steel, created by famous architect Sir Norman Foster.
Puhung Station, Pyongyang, North Korea



Inaugurated between 1969 and 1972 by former President Kim-Il Sung, the Pyongyang Metro network is currently considered the deepest metro in the world (track is at 110m/360ft underground). The North Korean metro was inspired from the Moscow subway network and one of it’s main purposes was to facilitate military transport (the subway staff’s uniform is very similar to a military uniform and there are rumors claiming that many important military locations are secretly connected to the subway network). However, today it’s mainly used for passenger transport and one of the main highlights is the Puhung station, decorated with painting depicting the North Korean people’s glory and with chandeliers adding the luxury “feeling”. Unfortunately, there aren’t many tourists that had the privilege to enjoy the view, because the communist country’s foreign policy is extremely strict.
Dubai Metro, Dubai



As you might expect, the land of opulence, Dubai, features an impressive subway network. And as you probably noticed, in this case we’re not talking about a single station but the entire network, which is still under construction. The $8 billion project was started in 2005, with the first station being opened on September 9, 2009 at 9 minutes and 9 seconds past 9 p.m. (9:9:9 9/9/9). Most stations combine modern design with the local tradition. For example, the stations feature a shell shape, reminding of the emirate’s pearling tradition, while the interiors are inspired by the four nature elements: earth, air, water and fire. Of course, don’t be surprised if you’ll spot extravagant decorations such as huge chandeliers.
Arts et Metiers Station, Paris, France



Serving the Musee des Arts and Metiers, the station was opened in 1904. However, in 1994 the station was redesigned to celebrate 200 years since the establishment of National Conservatory of Arts and Crafts. The new look was created by Belgian artist Francois Schuiten who drew his inspiration from the works of famous French writer Jules Verne, especially one of his flagship novels, “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea”.
City Hall Station, New York



New York subway isn’t known for its impressive architecture, but among all the station there’s a hidden gem not many know about. The City Hall station was built between 1900 and 1904 and featuring tall arches, skylights, chandeliers and brass fixtures it was la piece de resistance of the entire New York subway until December 31, 1945 when it was closed. This decision was taken because newer and longer trains had to be introduced and the station’s platform wasn’t long enough. In the late 90s there was a plan to restore the station as part of New York Transit Museum but it was aborted after 9/11 due to security concerns. Today, if you want to see the station, it’s a little bit tricky, because it’s closed to the public and only used as a turnaround point for the 6 Train. However, since passenger aren’t required to get off at the last stop (Brooklyn Bridge), if you stay in the train past that station, you’ll be able to enjoy this absolutely beautiful subway station.

Dubai Holidays

Dubai has transformed itself from a desert outpost to one of the most important economic centres in the Middle East. As a result, the city has become an increasingly popular tourist destination. Holidays in Dubai offer a mix of old world markets and contemporary architecture, sunny beaches and sprawling shopping centres, imposing skyscrapers and world class museums.

What to See

Much of Old Dubai has vanished with the move towards modern towers of glass and steel. Some remnants remain, including the Bastakiya District where buildings have been reconstructed in traditional styles. The district is home to many lively cafes and art galleries. The Dubai Museum at the al-Fahidi fort shares the history of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, while a guided tour of the Jumeirah Mosque, the largest in Dubai, allows you to explore breathtaking architecture.

To experience modern Dubai, a visit to the iconic Burg al-Arab can be arranged with a tour or by staying at the luxury hotel. Admiring the Burg Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, can be done from many places in Dubai. You can also visit the tower’s observation deck for a unforgettable view of the surrounding landscape. The tower is also home to the 1,200-shop Dubai Mall. For additional shopping adventures, seek out the historic Gold Souk and Spice Souk markets at the mouth of the Dubai Creek, or the Satwa textile market.








What to Do

Visiting the beach is a great way to relax while on vacation in Dubai. With picturesque white sandy beaches and warm waters, the city’s beaches are idyllic. Water sports are a popular activity in Dubai, including diving and snorkelling to see colourful coral reefs and wrecks. You can also ski in the desert at a well-equipped snow skiing centre at the Mall of the Emirates. Alternatively, you can explore the desert itself with a tour on four-wheeled drive vehicles. Tour operators take visitors across and over sand dunes, which are particularly beautiful close to sunset. For a taste of the unusual, you can see camel races at the Camel Race Track during winter months. Families will enjoy the Wild Wadi Park and its entertaining water slides and rides, tidal pool, waterfalls, and secluded lagoon.

Travelling to Dubai

Dubai is a five-hour flight from many cities in Europe. With Emirates Airline, British Airways, and many other European carriers serving the city from destinations across Europe, Dubai is relatively easy to get to. Although summer months can be extremely hot, fall and winter months are cooler, with temperatures ranging between 20˚C to 25˚C. Getting around the city itself is made easy with a new metro system, although exploring the city by car or taxi is still the best way to experience.

Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s great fishing, sailing and holiday destinations located in the beautiful east coast of the Northland region. It has one of the best maritime parks in New Zealand, featuring an amazing range of marine life, such as whales, penguins, dolphins and much more, in an area with 144 islands and bays.





The bay itself is an irregular 16 km-wide inlet. It is a natural harbour, which has several arms that extend into the land. The area has several towns scattered around the coast, each one with unique culture and lifestyle, combining both great outdoor experience and significant historic sites. The main centres include Kerikeri, Paihia, Waitangi, Opua and Russell.

Paihia is the main visitor centre for Bay of Islands, with friendly locals and happy cafés, and is where many sightseeing cruises by both land and sea begin.

Kerikeri is a fertile orchard town on the northern extremity of the Bay. The district, the earliest permanent settlement in New Zealand, bears some of the country’s oldest buildings, bush walks, several arts and crafts galleries and local cuisine.

If you arrive in Bay of Islands by sea, Opua is your port, with cosmopolitan marinas and anchorages with full chandlery, lively cafes and bars. It is where a number of charter companies offer yachts you can sail yourself.

There are plenty of recreational activities to do in this area, whether you’re seeking for thrilling adventure or just to rest. Try skydiving, parasailing, quad biking, horse trekking, scuba diving, kayaking, paddling a waka or taking one of the many well-maintained walking tracks that provide breathtaking views throughout the bay.

If you want to relax and marvel at the majestic scenery, spend your time on a secluded unspoilt beach with clear turquoise coloured waters on some of the 144 stunning islands, taking a walk or just lazing around listening to the songs of seabirds.

Charter a yacht or launch, cruise uninhabited islands with lagoons and natural rock caves, take a scenic flight, take a guided tour through historical sites, go fishing or swim right up close with the dolphins in their natural habitat.

With the warmest water in New Zealand and the friendliest dolphin species (Bottlenose), Bay of Islands is the best place to experience swimming with dolphins.

One of the most popular attractions in Bay of Islands is the Hole in the Rock, in the beautiful Motukokako Island, off Cape Brett. You can take a boat trip through the hole in a huge rock and explore deep into the spectacular Grand Cathedral Cave.

Some tours travel at speeds of up to 100kms, the most thrilling way to see this famous icon. Here you can also swim with the local common and bottlenose dolphins.

The beautiful Cape Brett Lighthouse can be reached by walking a coastal track or seen by taking a boat to the hole in the rock.

Urupukapuka is the largest of over 140 islands in the bay. It is a unique place to visit and relax the whole day enjoying time on the stunning beaches. There are many clear water sand beaches and diving is particularly good on the east coast where there is plentiful reef life. This island is also full of historic and archaeological sites, ideal to explore both Maori and European local history.

Another attraction in Bay of Islands is the Motuarohia (Roberton) Island. The most photographed scene in the Bay is distinguished by its two glorious lagoons. There is a track that leads to the top of the island, where you can get spectacular aerial views of the narrow strip of land and sand with the twin lagoons.

The Kerikeri Mission House, the country’s oldest house built in 1821, and the wonderful Mission’s Stone Store dating from 1832, New Zealand’s oldest stone building, are regarded as the “Cradle of the Nation”, and are a must for all visiting this region.

Just a few kilometres from Kerikeri centre and Kerikeri Mission House, it’s the Rainbow Falls, a beautiful 27m waterfall where the water tumbles into a pool surrounded by native bush.

Bay of Islands is a great base for exploring all of the Far North. You can travel north to Cape Reinga – the lighthouse where the Pacific Ocean meets the Tasman Sea, Tepaki Sand Dunes and Ninety-Miles beach, which is actually 55 miles (88 km) long.

The rich history of Bay of Islands makes it the perfect place to find out why this region is considered to be the birthplace of New Zealand as a bi-cultural nation. It was where the famous Treaty of Waitangi became the founding document for the new nation.

In Waitangi, visit the Maori Whare Runanga (Meeting House), which is a fully carved construction with carvings representing the major Maori tribes, and the largest Maori War Canoe in the world, the Ngatokimatawhaorua.

Sea arches are a spectacular phenomena created by Mother Nature with a little help from oceans. They are usually composed of a soft rock that eroded over millions of years as waves hit land, carving caves and tunnels in the rock. Some arches are accessible by beachcombers at low tide, while others can be reached only by boat Some arches are big enough to drive watercraft through. All will provide a field day for photographers, too.




15Kleftiko Beach
Kleftiko Beachflickr/Visit Greece

Kleftiko Beach, on the Greek island of Milos, offers an opportunity to see multiple sea arches, some of which are big enough to navigate boats through. These elaborate arches are located off shore, and come in all sizes and shapes. They are accessible only by boat. Most boats include a stop for swimming and snorkeling in the cruise. Local legend says that pirates used to hide out in the on- and offshore caves.

Greece Guide



14La Portada
La Portadaflickr/Marcos Escalier T.

La Portada (The Gateway) arch stands 43 meters (140 feet) high in the Pacific Ocean in the Antofagasta region of Chile. The arch is made of andesite stone, sedimentary rocks and sandstone, as well as fossils that are millions of years old. The arch is not too far from the shore. An overlook on the shore offers great views of this much-photographed Chilean phenomenon. Visitors may want to bring binoculars, as it’s a popular place to view seals, vultures and other marine life as well.

Chile Guide

13Pigeon Rocks
Pigeon Rocksflickr/Aline Mayard

The Pigeon Rocks are two huge rock formations situated at Beirut’s western-most tip. The gigantic sentinels are a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. The seaside promenade, or corniche, directly in front of the rocks is an excellent viewing point, but far more interesting is to take one of the tracks down to the lower cliffs.

Lebanon Guide

12Great Pollet Arch
Great Pollet Archflickr/leppre

The Great Pollet Arch sits close to the shore of the coast of County Donegal in Ireland. Located on the Fanad Peninsula, the Great Pollet Arch is a massive rock formation that photographs well in all sorts of weather and any time of the day. The arch was carved out of the rock by the motions of the Atlantic Ocean. It is considered a prime example of marine erosion. The arch is surrounded by smaller rocks and tidal pools.

Ireland Guide

11Batu Bolong
Batu Bolongflickr/alex hanoko

Pura Batu Bolong is a small temple located just a stone’s throw from Bali’s famous Tanah Lot temple. It is perched at the end of a rocky promontory that leaps seaward into the surging Indian Ocean. The rock has a natural hole, hence the name, as batu bolong literally means ‘rock with hole’.

Indonesia Guide

10Arch Rock
Arch Rockflickr/NOAA Photo Library

The 12 meter (40 foot) Arch Rock is one of several natural bridges on Anacapa Island, one of the Channel Islands archipelago off the coast of California. It’s a true natural beauty and is often used as the face of the Channel Islands. Besides the arch, the island offers two more iconic features. These are Inspiration Point, offering breathtaking views, and the Anacapa Island Lighthouse.

United States Guide

9Hopewell Rocks
Hopewell Rocksflickr/Brendan J Ross

Hopewell Rocks is a good place to get up-close and personal with sea arches. Located on Canada’s Bay of Fundy, this New Brunswick Province’s arches are on shore, which means that visitors can walk through the arches and picnic beside them at low tide. The bay has the highest tides in the world, so when it’s high tide, travelers can paddle through the arches by canoe or kayak.

Canada Guide

8Honopu Arch
Honopu Archflickr/wallyg

Honopu Arch is the tallest arch in Hawaii. It can be found on the Na Pali coast on the island of Kaua’i. It is in an isolated part of the island, reachable only by boat and then swimming to shore as boats cannot dock here. It is more like a natural bridge, as there’s a waterfall on the landside that drains through the arch’s tunnel. There’s a small beach area on each side of the arch. The area appeared in the 1976 remake of King Kong and in the 1998 movie Six Days Seven Nights.

United States Guide

7Azure Window
Azure Windowflickr/Ben124.

A breathtaking natural limestone arch with a flat top, the Azure Window is one of Malta’s top attractions. Situated on the island of Gozo, the arch has been featured in movies and television shows, and is a famous icon of Malta. The tourist village of Dwejra is nearby to serve the needs of visitors who scuba dive, swim and boat around the arch where it drops into the Dwejra Bay. The arch is visible from a great distance. Most people hike there, enjoying the extraordinary view as they go and then cooling off in the water.

Malta Guide

6Cathedral Cove
Cathedral Coveflickr/macronix

Accessible only on foot, boat or kayak, Cathedral Cove is one of the top attractions on the Coromandel Peninsula in New Zealand. The area features two beautiful beaches separated by a huge rock arch. The cathedral-like arch gives the whole area an air of grandeur. The beach is sandy with shady pohutukawa trees along the foreshore; a perfect place for a picnic and a swim.

New Zealand Guide

5El Arco
El Arcoflickr/D&S McSpadden

El Arco is a golden-colored sea arch found at the tip of the Baja Peninsula near Cabo San Lucas. It is also called Land’s End because if one draws a straight line south, the next land it hits is the South Pole. El Arco is visible from all over Cabo, but travelers may also want to approach it via a boat. El Arco is where the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez meet.

Mexico Guide

4Playa de las Catedrales
Playa de las Catedralesflickr/Tuscasasrurales

Playa de las Catedrales, or Beach of the Cathedrals, near Ribadeo, Spain, is also known as the Playa de Aguas Santas (Beach of Holy Waters) because the rock formations of these multiple sea arches resemble the spires on cathedrals. Some of the arches and caves can be seen only at low tide. Located on the Bay of Biscay, it’s possible to walk through the area at low tide. During high tide, the water isn’t as friendly to visitors.

Spain Guide

3Wharariki Beach
Wharariki Beachflickr/Chris Gin

Wharariki Beach is considered the gem of Tasman. Located at the northernmost edge of New Zealand’s South Island, it doesn’t get as many visitors as other Kiwi beaches, perhaps because it requires a walk through forests and over sand dunes to reach from the parking lot. Those who make the trek, however, will be rewarded with spectacular beaches and sea arches that sit out in the ocean. The beach is a good place to go horseback riding and see marine life, such as seals.

New Zealand Guide

2Legzira Beach
Legzira Beachwikipedia/Mb-world

Legzira Beach, south of Agadir, is considered Morocco’s most unique beach, probably due to the gigantic sea arches that dot the beach. They are so big that a person standing underneath one at low tide will seem like a small doll. The arches glow red at sunset, making a very picturesque scene. The beach is popular with hang gliders and parasailers, but it’s also a good place to sit and enjoy the spectacular sea arches.

Morocco Guide

1Durdle Door
#1 of Sea Archesflickr/Saffron Blaze

Durdle Door is a sea arch that juts out from the Jurassic Coast of Dorset, England. It is privately owned, but is open to the public. Made of limestone, the arch is joined to land by a 120-meter (390-foot) long isthmus. This sea arch is accessible by foot, though it involves walking a steep path with steps from Lulworth Cove. The 140-million year-old Durdle Door is one of the most photographed spots on the Jurassic Coast.