Holiday Velvet Travel Blog

Thursday, December 13, 2007

Winter Magic in Berlin

Germany is always known for its big Christmas markets. Also this year in Berlin there are over 50 Christmas markets and they are starting from 26 nov. and last until 26 dec . But that is not all, there are several activities in Berlin during Christmas like Berlin on Ice, A 700 sq m ice skating place in the historical centre of the city.

There are also a number of great Christmas shows in local theaters like Roncalli Christmas circus, Stars in Concert, Soap etc. Of course there are a lot of shops where you can do your Christmas shopping. And if you’re staying over new year there is a big new year’s eve party between the Brandenburg Gate and the Victory Column with loads of fireworks and music stages.
For more information: You can view the Berlin Tourist Information site and for Berlin holiday apartments you can search Berlin apartments.


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Monday, December 10, 2007

Big Powder in Colorado

If you are looking to ski or snowboard in the US, the choices can be overwhelming. East coast vs. West coast; the Rockies, Sierras, New Mexico – where does one begin? For guaranteed fun – you cannot go wrong at two of America´s most famous resorts - Aspen and Vail.

Both located in the state of Colorado, these resorts offer more snow sports than you can shake a stick at. Vail is about an hours’ drive west from Denver (major international airport), making it accessible even for the day. The resort is simply huge. At over 3600 meters - it offers over 200 trails, 35 lifts and dozens of restaurants on and off the mountain. What makes Vail truly unique is it has 3 faces. Most ski resorts in the Northern Hemisphere face north to limit sun-exposure on the trails which preserves the snow. Vail not only has a northern facing side but a completely ungroomed south side.

The area is vast and since it faces the sun, the skiing is warm and comfortable for most of the season.The village of Vail is modeled off a Bavarian village with traditional structures and small streets. Accommodations range from hotels to apartments and villas. Vail is great for families looking for numerous options on and off the mountain.

Metaphorically speaking, if Vail = steak than Aspen = soufflé. Looking for more of a niche, ritzy experience than Aspen is the place to be. Home to many of Hollywood´s rich and famous, Aspen’s reputation for great parties and nightlife if almost as notorious as its excellent skiing. Located over 3 hours from Denver, Aspen attracts more long term guests. The resort has its own airport and guests tend to stay for at least a week. With this, the atmosphere is unique and more communal than Vail. The mountain is about half the size of Vail but still offers a wide spectrum of levels.

Vail accommodations vary from B&B´s, Inns to private homes for all tastes. Filled with 5 star restaurants and shops, the village is certain to satisfy any craving that may come up! Aspen Dolamite villa in Aspen is one place worth considering.

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