Being the French dominant Canadian province, I couldn’t think of a better heading that expressing it in French. Quebec is one province which is a part of Canada yet it is very distinct from the other provinces. Millions of tourists from different parts of the world throng the state every year. It is one of those very few places in North America that has kept the Francophone culture alive. This has ensured to keep the feel of the Europe alive in this state.

Tourism in Quebec is the fifth largest industry in the state. With a mix of cultures existing together in the same province makes for an interesting place to visit and explore. Not to miss out are the cities of Montreal and Quebec.

Montreal could be considered as the only city in North America to have safely preserved the Francophone culture. It is also the second largest Francophone city after Paris. The major neighborhoods to be visited include Chinatown, Little Italy, Old Montreal, Latin Quarter, Quartier International and so on. The city is known for its architecture and cultural events.

The Quebec City is the second most populous city in the province. On the banks of the Saint River Lawrence with Levis on the opposite bank, it is one of the oldest and a spectacular city. The city is known for its summer festivals and the winter carnivals. Check out the Chateau Frontenac which is a city hotel touching the Quebec skylines. Other sights include the Montmorency Falls and so on.

For a traveler, there are loads to indulge into from adventure sports to leisure activities. The province has twenty seven national parks for a tourist to visit at will. Apart from these are museums, casinos, theme parks, cruises and other sites of historical importance.

Other activities involve hiking, fishing and hunting, cycling, skiing, snowmobiling and much more…

So plan a vacation today!

Italy was recently acknowledged as “the most welcoming country” in the entire Europe. Contrary to Australia, that has left no scope in getting the tag of a racist country; Italy, on the other hand, claims that THERE IS NO RACISM in the country what so ever.

Andrea Ronchi, the European Affairs Minister, confirmed that Italy shows no signs of racism, and only those people who do not know Italy can make allegations for the same! He further blamed the rest of the Europe that left Italy to face the problems of immigration of its own.

He stated that Italy would provide a free tour to all those people who have accused the country and show them as to what Italy is all about! It offers solidarity and a welcoming attitude to everyone who enters its premises. At the same time, it is also true that “ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION” too exists as a violent phenomenon.

He further called all those who accuse Italy as a racist country as being STUPID! He applauded Italy as the most welcoming country, days after residents attacked African farm workers who were found complaining and agitating against their conditions. Reports say that various residents and immigrants were left injured in the Italian town of Rosarno.

Several incidents have been witnessed where immigrants were bashed seriously and left wounded. Interior Minister Roberto Maroni, stated that these incidents are a result of “too much tolerance towards clandestine immigration“.

Ottawa - the capital city of Canada is one of the largest multicultural destinations in its country offering a wide range of attractions to the tourist and the immigrant population. The city offers various aspects for an explorer which involves history, culture, politics arts and so on. You can wander on your own in this city which keeps the enigma intact and ensures that you have your share of adventure.

The presence of a multicultural society in this city ensures that you are not an outsider. The people of the city are warm and extremely welcoming, similar to that of a rural city. This feature makes the place exotic – a large city with the feel of countryside makes it the perfect place to take time off your busy and boring schedule.

Stroll across the lush green parks in this eastern Ontario city. There are a total of eight hundred and fifty parks in this city. With this are the banks of the Ottawa River which separates it from the province of Quebec. The Rideau River and Canal adds to the beautiful pollution free environment of the city.

The city is also host to the world’s largest skating rink at the Rideau Canal which is used by the locals as well as the visitors.

The main places to visit include the Canadian Museum of Civilization, the National Gallery of Canada, and the National Arts Centre amongst others. With this, there are around 45 festivals that are celebrated every year in this city. These celebrations add to the vigor and the vibrant colors of the city.

Above all, the neighborhoods are not to be missed out. Some such places are –

• Little Italy to feel the Italy in Canada. The place is known for restoring the Italian culture and heritage.
• Rockciffe is host to all the embassies and the residences of all the top Canadian Government officials including those of the PM and the Governor General.
• Downtown is known for its history and architecture in the centre of Ottawa.
• A waterfront village known as Manotick.
• Feel Asia in Somerset Chinatown.
• ByWard Market is a happening place for all those interested in shopping. It also has many pubs, restaurant and bars for those keen to meet new people and taste new cuisines. You can also find Canada’s oldest farmer’s market here.

So pack your bags and get exploring ASAP!

Trip to Europe always proves to be an overwhelming experience for anyone! The continent has so much to offer. Whenever you are in Europe, you would realize that there is so much to experience. But, it is not always possible for everyone to see and experience everything that it offers. Thus, here is a list of a few European destinations of tourist interest that you should not miss:

The London Eye Or The Millennium Wheel, London, UK: London is one of the most famous cities in Europe, with lots of things to cater to a wide range of travelers. The London Eye, or The Millennium Wheel is the most popular tourist destination in London. Standing at height of 135 meters on the banks of Thames River, the London Eye is visited by more than 2 million tourists each year.

The Tower Of London, London, UK: The royal palace of the Queen is located on the banks of Thames River. The Tower of London is a great place to witness the heritage and culture of England.

Apart from these two destinations, if time permits do not miss out on Tower Bridge, Big Ben, Madame Tussauds and Westminster Abbey. Other than these, there are several other reasons to visit London!

The Roman Colosseum, Rome, Italy: Whenever you are in Italy, you must make it a point to visit Rome. The city boasts history in its ancient structures and buildings. Rome accounts for one of those premier cities that exhibits excellent ancient art and architecture. One of the examples of the brilliant Roman architecture is The Roman Colosseum. It is a huge amphitheatre that could seat up to 50,000 people at a time. It still deserves a watch in the modern times!

Other famous destinations in Rome include Trajan’s Market, Domus Aurea, The Arch of Constantine, the Bocca della Vertia and the Catacombs of Rome.

Milan, Italy: Being shoppers’ paradise, fashion conscious people would definitely like to take a visit to Milan. Apart from world-class shopping complexes and plazas, Milan offers other mediums of entertainment, including cinemas and theatre. In Milan you will have loads of options to indulge in Italian delicacies and food.

The Eiffel Tower, Paris, France: France is regarded as one of the most famous tourist destinations, thanks to a number of places to see. The famous city of Paris in France boasts one of the world’s seven wonders, the Eiffel Tower. Made of iron and steel, this is the tallest tower in France with a towering height of 325 meters. For a one-of-its-kind experience, visit this popular destination in the evening!

The Louvre Museum, Paris, France: Located on the banks of River Seine, the Louvre Museum must be the most famous art museum in the world. The museum boasts great collection of artwork from 19th century AD. You will remain spellbound with the exhibits of the masterpieces.

The Parthenon, Athens, Greece: The land of Socrates and Aristotle is full of famous sites, including monuments. One of the most popular tourist destinations in Athens is the Parthenon. Situated at the Acropolis of Athens, the Parthenon once served as temple to the patron goddess, Athena. Other important tourist attractions in Athens include National Archeological Museum and the Kallimarmaro Stadium.

Switzerland: Regarded as one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, Switzerland should be visited once in your lifetime! The country is famous for its spectacular natural beauty. It offers some of the amazing natural skiing tracks in the Alps. Whenever you are in the country, never give it miss to famous Swiss chocolates!

The State Hermitage Museum and Winter Palace, St Petersburg, Russia: The State Hermitage Museum is one of the prominent tourist destinations in Russia. This grand museum holds over three millions works of world’s art and artifacts on display. The art collections are exhibited in total six buildings, the most important being the ancient Winter Palace. The Winter Palace was the former residence of the Russian czars.

The Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen, Denmark: With 150 years of history behind it, the Tivoli Gardens happens to be the most famous amusement park in the world. The park has everything, from restaurants to theatres; from lake to gardens. If you are fortunate enough to visit the park in the summer months, you can catch some of the electrifying live music performances.

Europe has an array of other destinations that tourists may like to visit. This was our little effort to help you choose the best destinations in order to make your Europe trip successful and joyous!

New Year’s Eve celebration happens to be the biggest common party across the globe when all nations and religions forget all the differences and come together to welcome the New Year. New Year’s Eve is one such occasion when everyone in everyplace around the world manages to recognize the New Year with some sort of celebration. As we are slowly approaching to the end of 2009, once again there is a restlessness in preparing the planner for the occasion. However, if you are looking forward to have something big and really happening on this New Year’s Eve, then we can help you. Here is a compilation of top ten destinations where you can celebrate the momentous occasion in the best possible way. Go through it and decide upon which destination to reach to join the New Year celebrations before it gets too late.

Sydney, Australia: Sydney accounts for one of the best places across the globe for New Year celebrations, where thousands of enthusiasts gather at Circular Quay, the hub of Sydney Harbour. The celebrations actually begin in the afternoon with a lot of activities. However, the Sydney’s famous New Year’s Eve fireworks display lights up as the clock strikes 12. The spectacular views of fireworks last for more than 15 minutes, but the celebrations go on till the wee hours.

No matter where you want to party, be it in a pub, on the water or on the bridge, make sure you are at Circular Quay to witness the one-of-its-kind fireworks display over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. For your information, make sure you wear black, since black is the wardrobe color of choice for social Sydneysiders. A boat ride in the Sydney Harbour is a fascinating activity on this occasion. It would also be an opportunity to enjoy some great music.

Edinburgh, Scotland: To Scots, New Year is Hogmanay, which is one of the most popular New Year’s events in the world. There is a long rich heritage associated with this event. Hogmanay is basically a four-to-five-day extravaganza. It includes parties to street festivals to entertaining, sometimes terrifying fire festivals, to be brief. Hogmanay usually starts with the Torchlight Procession, followed by street theatre, live music, the Hogmanay carnival and firework at the mid of 31st of December.

Scotland also hosts a number of New Year’s events during Hogmanay. The most famous and the biggest event being taken place in Edinburgh.

Paris, France: Being a famous New Year destination in the world, the capital city of France displays amazing fireworks all over the city. If you are fond of great fireworks, then you must visit Paris for this New Year’s Eve celebrations.

On this occasion, mostly crowds pack around the Champs Elysses and the Eiffel Tower. The dazzling fireworks display can be best viewed from the Eiffel Tower. Being in Paris for the New Year’s celebrations does not mean that you miss out on its famous attractions, including the Louvre, home to the Mona Lisa and Notre Dame Cathedral, Sacre-Coeur Basilica and many more.

Melbourne, Australia: Melbourne perhaps hosts the greatest and the most extravagant New Years celebrations in Australia. Accompanied by massive fireworks the celebrations stretch to the extent of the River Yarra from Swan Street Bridge to Waterfront City, Docklands.

Participants of Melbourne New Year’s Eve celebrations are fortunate enough to see the city skyline lit up into a rainbow of colors. People just cannot get enough of the fireworks shows. The spectacular fireworks can be best viewed from the Princes Bridge and the Crown Entertainment Complex. If you are up to join the celebrations, make sure you reach one of this or all venues- Waterfront City, Docklands; Alexandra Gardens; Federation Square; Southgate Arts & Leisure Precinct; Birrarung Marr; and New Quay.

Not to forget, electrifying live performances, roving performers, live music, DJs, movies and lots of other entertainment programs are an integral part of the celebrations. Once you are in Melbourne, do not miss out on an Aussie Rules Football game. Take out some time to wander through the trendy neighbourhood and visit some of Australia’s coolest nightspots.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Known for its warm and friendly people, Rio de Janeiro attracts one of the great crowds on the eve of New Year. People mostly flock to the beaches to celebrate Reveillon (New Year’s Eve), however, it’s Copacabana Beach that hosts the most famous Rio de Janeiro’s New Year’s Eve celebration.

What attracts millions of people every year for the celebrations to Rio de Janeiro is its liveliness. There is always a friendly atmosphere around, thanks to its friendly and warm people. The city houses many interesting museums, ever-welcoming beaches and historic neighborhoods. It is also considered as one of the world’s top party cities, thanks to its thriving nightlife.

Every year Copacabana beach witnesses millions of enthusiasts dancing to the beats of Samba, while sharing champagne and partying. The fireworks display lasts for almost 30 minutes since the time the clock strikes twelve.

Rome, Italy: The volley of fireworks at Piazza del Popolo really deserves a look on the eve of New Year. Even though New Year’s Eve in Rome is celebrated all over the city’s squares, Piazza del Popolo accounts for the most popular destination in Rome to welcome the New Year. The celebrations include fireworks, fantastic rock and classical live music concerts throughout the night, followed by various performances and acrobatics for children’s entertainment in the next day (New Year’s day). A trip to Rome to celebrate New Year does not mean that you indulge only in the celebrations on the square. Rome is like an open museum, so take some time and roam around the charismatic lanes accompanied by amazing architectural structures. Make sure you head to the Trevi Fountain and throw in a coin. Everyone does it!

New York, USA: Times Square in Manhattan in the New York City is the best place to be in for New Year’s Eve celebrations. People gather at the venue and the celebrations begin as the New Year’s Eve ball drops from the flagpole on the top of One Times Square. This is one of  the most charming celebrations, since one hardly can beat New Yorkers on how to put on a celebration.

London, England: The British people like it somewhat different! Of course, the best place to be in London to ring in the New Year is Trafalgar Square. People congregate here and countdown to the New Year. People from across the Europe join the New Year’s Day celebrations that stir a sense of national pride and joy within the participants. The London Parade on the New Year’s Day features local heroes, marching bands, clowns and more. You can also join the celebrations near London Eye and London’s Big Ben clock tower.

Las Vegas, USA: What can be said about Las Vegas, the city that parties every night throughout the year!! The city definitely makes one of the best destinations to welcome the New Year 2010. You cannot ask for more, it has everything from night clubs to strip clubs to casinos. Always packed with all the arrangements, Las Vegas surely makes one destination favorable for New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Goa, India: Goa has always proved to be a hot destination for the New Year’s Eve celebrations. The premier beach destination of India is crowded by thousands of visitors, just to welcome the New Year while jiving and singing. Goa has the perfect ambiance for the celebrations, thanks to its exotic beaches and nightlife. Goan culture and cuisines are some of the delights that visitors from across the world admire it for. While in Goa for the New Year’s celebrations, never miss the chance to walk around the beautiful churches!

As only a few days are left for the New Year’s Eve celebrations, these destinations are going to be packed with enthusiasts to spend the momentous occasion of ringing in the New Year 2010. Be smart and book your tickets and hotels in your desired destination as the hotels fill up very quickly every single year!

Making career and finding better future options are some of the facets that are perhaps becoming top priorities for students out there. More than anything else, students are concerned about their faculty, institutions and the kind of education they get. This is perhaps one of the reasons, they don’t hesitate to leave their home country and choose the option of studying abroad. Check out some of the hottest study destinations:

1. The United Kingdom: Just as the destination is popular with vacationers, it is immensely applauded for its educational institutions, range of courses offered and faculty members. And if you are into literature and art, there is no better place than the UK. Just head on towards UK and know their culture and accent by indulging in some entertaining exchanges.
2. Australia: The country offers a perfect comfort zone for students, especially those belonging to the English-speaking zones. Sydney, Perth and Melbourne are most popular study hubs in Australia, thanks to some of the renowned universities like University of Sydney, The University of Sydney, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, La Trobe University, and Melbourne Business School, to name a few. Australia has lot to offer to students having any subject.
3. USA: USA as a study destination can be regarded as a brilliant choice to perfect your academic career and enhance your chances of working with some of the top professionals. Students from various countries flock in to study some of their favorite subjects in well-recognized US Universities.
4. Canada: The country offers a diverse range of more than 90 Institutions and is famous for its high quality of education. With a country offering diversity like no other, Canada with its two official language- English and French, can be a perfect choice for you. Some of the options include Academy Canada, Acadia University, Alberta Vocational College – Calgary, Cégep Joliette-De Lanaudière, College Militaire Royale, and Ecole Polytechnique de Montreal, to name a few.
5. Italy: Know that Europe’s oldest university is in Italy! Students from all over the world come to study in some of the best Italian educational institutes like European School of Economics, European University Institute, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, and Istituto Universitario di Architettura (Venezia). It is advised that students should not limit themselves to the places about which they have just heard. Rather, they must check out institutions in other Italian cities as well. There is more to Italy, then just pasta, pizza, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and wine! Go and explore its educational aspects.
6. Mexico: The place is getting increasingly popular with students planning to study and learn the meaning of life at the same time! The line sounds interesting! Isn’t it? The practical experience offered by the country is even more exciting and full of learning experiences. Just study your favorite subjects and make your career in Mexico! In addition, it is a great place to learn Spanish.

The list doesn’t end here. Consult an Immigration and Study Visa expert now and know more about your options of studying abroad.

There are times when you would want to be aloof, go away from the materialistic world and hide into a serene ambiance all alone! Also, there are times when you want to be independent and explore the world of your own. This blog of mine comprises of some of the hottest and spiciest destinations to travel alone (you can say ‘independently!’)

Belize: A Lilliputian English-speaking American country having a freezy ambiance and some of the best resorts to indulge into! With the increase in its popularity, a lot of celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio, Francis Ford Coppola, including others have already booked their places in the serene environment of Belize.

Pittsburgh: Again it is my choice, so I don’t blame anyone for not choosing the same. The best part about the place is the nighttime view from the amazing Mount Washington. No matter whether you are alone or with some one special, the view always makes the place unique in itself!

The next on the list would be Queenstown, New Zealand. It is a paradise for all those snowboarders and skiers out there, plus serves as a brilliant travel destination to relax and calm down your nerves. The public transportation is amazing and not to forget the possibility of exploring the entire place, courtesy the rented vehicles that are easily available in Queenstown.

Next I would like to put my money on Sicily. The island is decked with some of the beautiful and most enchanting scenic views one can only think of. The seafood is out of this world, including the prices that are noticeably cheaper as compared to other Italian cities. An independent traveler would surely love every aspect of Sicily, be it beach, fishing, swimming, seafood, Italian culture and so on. Just consult a Travel Visa expert and head on towards a calm, exciting and independent journey.

I believe that Romance is where your beloved is! Any place, no matter how beautiful it is, will look bland if your loved one is not near you! Still, I would like to share my list of some of the top romantic destinations for all of you. Here is the list…

Aspen, Colorado tops my list of top romantic destinations. This skier’s destination makes a perfect place for all the love birds out there. Even after ten or fifteen years of your marriage, the place holds the capacity to re-develop the love inside you once you land on this blissful destination. You can spend a quiet evening with your beau and sit beside a roaring fire or go for a night out in the famous pubs and clubs that the place is immensely famous for.

Second on the list would definitely be Venice, Italy! Many of you would agree with me, but there are some who may not. It depends upon individual preferences but this ancient city surely holds the charm to sweep your beloved off her feet. Ensure that you go for an evening gondola ride alongside the beautiful and romantic Venice canals and express your unending and enduring love for each other.

Third on the list would be New York. NYC has everything to enchant your lover and spend some beautiful moments of your life together. The whole experience spent with your loved one would be like a fairy tale, arrayed with every single aspect of a beautiful love story! Time Square, Rockefeller Center, Chinatown, and Brooklyn Bridge are some of the fascinating and dreamy places to roam with someone special!

Australia comes next on the list! Hayman Island tops my destinations when it comes to choosing any particular one in the Oz. It is located at 900 kilometers north of Brisbane. The place is small, but is cuddled with some of the stunning and sensational sceneries to enjoy with the love of your life. Not to forget the Great Barrier Reef!

Last but definitely not the least is Canada. The best part about the place is its soothing weather. Prince Edward Island, Ottawa, Kelowna, Churchill and Vancouver are some of the beautiful places to visit in Canada. All are decked with plenty of restaurants, pubs, cruises and romantic evenings!

You don’t need to have a whale of a bank-balance or a status of a celebrity to enjoy a romantic vacation abroad! With this thought in mind, just consult a Travel Visa expert and know as to how you can turn your dreams into reality!