Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: An Incentive Travel Featured Destination

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Rio de Janeiro can be found in Brazil as one of the largest residing cities and is a bustling metropolitan region that served as Brazil’s capital from the late seventeen to early eighteen hundreds. It remains as the headquarters of both a major oil and telephone company operating in the region. Rio de Janeiro is also home to a significant conglomerate of communication oriented companies. In regards to tourism, it is a top visited southern hemisphere region where local scenery, festivals, and famous landmarks are common drawing points. Rio de Janeiro lies along the Atlantic Coast near the Tropic of Capricorn. The shoreline faces east to west and the city itself sits on an inlet of the coast. Guanabara Bay, the entry point into this location, is famously marked by a land point called Sugar Loaf.

Rio de Janeiro Districts

The Centro, located on the western portion of Guanabara Bay, is the financial/business center of the city. Visitors can view numerous historical buildings in this section. As one of the larger sections of this city, Zone Norte (North Zone) includes hills, mountains, and marine scenery spreading to the Northwest. Individuals have the opportunity to spend a day in the Quinta da Boa Vista Park, which contains a museum, zoo, and observatory. Zone Sul (South Zone) consists of coastal shorelines, upscale neighborhoods, and a variety of well-known tourist sites. Zone Oeste (West Zone), originally inaccessible due to mountain terrain, has grown into a suburban region with beach access. Every district of Rio de Janeiro offers a unique experience with a little history and culture making additional contributions.

Rio de Janeiro Beaches

This travel destination offers a great variety of beach front locations for relaxing in the sun with a drink or participating in area water activities. These oceanic selections are best for swimming:

  • Leme
  • Copacabana
  • Arpoador
  • Ipanema
  • Leblon
  • Barra da Tijuca
  • Recreio dos Bandeirantes
  • Grumari

A stunning coastal line of beautiful sanded beaches meets the one of kind waters of the Atlantic to create the ultimate getaway scenery. Additional coastal areas can be found in-bay, but are not the best choice for swimming. Alternative activities such as exploration are a good option in these sections of Rio de Janeiro.

Must See Sights

Pao de Acucar, one of Brazil’s most famous landmarks, is the location of the Sugar Loaf Mountains where visitors can take an aerial tramway to reach the top. Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas is a massive lagoon located in the South Zone that offers breathtaking views of area beaches. Travelers have the choice of walking, jogging, paddle boating, skating or cycling around the lagoon. The Streetcar of Santa Teresa is another option to individuals desiring to see a scenic neighborhood.  Parque Lage, Jardim Botanico, Paco Imperial, Casa Franca Brasil, and the Candelaria Church are additional musts in Rio de Janeiro. Visitors can spend the day seeing historical buildings or viewing works in museums and relax on the beach at the end of their sightseeing travels. It is a versatile tourist destination where every individual will come back with memorable experiences and a desire to visit again.

Puerto Rico: An Incentive Travel Featured Destination

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Puerto Rico, a paradise of exquisite beach scenery, is an unincorporated land considered to be part of the United States. It can be found in the northeastern portion of the Caribbean between the Dominican Republic and the Virgin Islands. The region consists of several small islands in addition to the main landmass of Puerto Rico. Visitors have the chance to experience the unique mountain terrain offered by the isle and can choose from extensive coastal areas both in the Northern and Southern portions. The region contains seventeen lakes, over fifty rivers, and beautiful golden sand beaches complimented by the tranquil waters of the Caribbean. Temperatures remaining around eighty-two degrees for the entire year make it a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway full of beach fun and exploration.

Island History

Puerto Rico, originally populated by aborigine individuals called the Tainos, was part of the areas claimed by Columbus as a territory of Spain while completing his second voyage in the year of 1943. It was colonized under the period of Spaniard rule and this change almost wiped out the entire Tainos population as individuals contracted brought in diseases. Those remaining as part of the newly colonized population became emancipated during the ruling of King Charles I. The territory remained as part of Spain for more than four-hundred years and was finally surrendered to the United States as part of the Treaty of Paris in 1898. People living in the region were not granted US citizenship until 1917. Locals have been allowed to vote in officials such as the governor since the mid nineteen hundreds, but are still unable to participate in presidential elections.

Area Culture

Modern culture is heavily influenced by traditions of Spain, North America, and the early styles of the Tainos. Spain contributed to the language and traditional values of this location; however, later changes such as educational universities came from the United States. The regions culture greatly focuses on music, which is a combination of attributes gained from these backgrounds.

Top Attractions

Puerto Rico offers visitors abundant opportunities including golf, exploration, beach fun, adventure, a robust nightlife, and even a little romance. Those desiring an adventurous exploration oriented getaway can spend their time:

  • Ziplining
  • Scuba Diving
  • Rainforest Exploration
  • Hiking
  • ATV Tours
  • Rappelling
  • Hang Gliding

The island delivers more than two-hundred seventy miles of beach front where visitors can relax, take in the scenery, and participate in water activities. Individuals can view one of the top ranked beaches on the planet among other stunning areas. Surfing, snorkeling, and swimming are highly rated activities. The history of this destination also provides a unique opportunity for exploration. Individuals can tour the historic military structure of El Morro among many additional fortresses in the region. Old San Juan covers an area of seven blocks consisting of narrowly paved blue cobblestone streets lined with numerous historical architectural sites. Sports lovers can spend a day playing golf while surrounded by extravagant scenery. Puerto Rico is a magical place where individuals getting the chance to visit can easily find plenty to experience.

London, England: An Incentive Travel Featured Destination

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London, with a rich history dating back to the Romans, serves as the capital city of England. The core of this stunning location remains to hold many of its dated medieval characteristics as the metropolis has expanded around it. It is a global leader in commerce, entertainment, media, research, education, and fashion. Tourism is another major contributor to the status of this England region. With a financial standing comparable to New York City, London offers endless opportunities for those taking the time to visit. It has been the designated host for the Summer Olympic Games three times with the latest occurring in 2012. A total population of over seven million people adds to the lively environment found in this busy, continuously growing location.

The Districts of London

Knowing where to begin your travel journey is the hardest part of tackling a trip to this metropolitan area. Diverse culture, a significant past, art, entertainment, and several villages allow every visitor to receive a unique experience. London is broken into five areas:

  • North – A place of discovery fill with trendy shops, exquisite restaurants, parks, and green village environments. Neighborhoods such as Hampstead contain museums and additional attractions.
  • West – Take a walk in one of the local markets, peruse designer retail locations, or visit a historic palace. Notting Hill and Queens Park add their own distinctive touch.
  • East – This particular London area has various contrasts ranging from modern districts to gorgeous forests. As the decided location for the 2012 Summer Olympic Games, the eastern portion offers multiple tourist attractions for individuals to visit.
  • Central – Interested in fine art or famous department stores? If so, central London is the place to be. Museums, galleries, bustling markets, shopping facilities, and notable architecture are just the beginning of the districts delivered options.
  • South – The southern portion supplies a little more laid back environment with a preserved natural presence. Visitors can relax amidst an abundance of greenery, enjoy riverside views, and take some time exploring historical or heritage sites throughout the area.

Additional High Points of the City

London is also known for its train stations including Euston Station, Victoria, and Paddington. Liverpool Street, considered to be the historical centre of the city, is an exceptional area for visitors to experience. The London Victoria is a good option for seeing some of the metropolises most demanded attractions. South Bank, a riverside location, delivers immense culture along with several stunning architectural creations. The city consists of numerous villages with each having its own distinct atmosphere and plenty of things to do.  Some villages have historical roots while others focus on the arts or entertainment. The most popular attractions consist of the British Museum, Tate Modern, the National Gallery, the National History Museum, the EDF Energy London Eye, and the Science Museum. Whatever the individual desire, London has attractions to meet every interest. Countless travelers return to explore further as they learn of the cities many wonders. A travel guide or planning assistance can help in ensuring you get the most out of this city. Of course, you can always take off to less popular areas to make your own discoveries!

Antigua, West Indies: An Incentive Travel Featured Destination

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Antigua, an isle found in the West Indies as part of the Caribbean region, was given its name by Christopher Columbus in reference to a portion of the Seville Cathedral. Wadadli, a name given by its original inhabitants, is also used when referencing the island. Antigua, covering approximately one-hundred eight square miles, contains a population of just over eighty thousand people. Tourism serves as a major supplier to the isles economy with the main local market being agriculture. St John’s, the capital of this location, houses more than thirty thousand residents. English Harbour can be found on the south-eastern portion and serves as a shelter point when violent storms reach the area. A restored naval station of Britain, referred to as Nelsons Dockyard, resides on the harbor. This portion of the isle is most known for yachting, sailing, and as a provisioning area.

Information about the Island

Antigua’s significant history began as explorers started traveling to the coastline of North America. It is the same characteristics the Royal Navy noticed when creating a Britain base that have caused travelers to make their way to this destination. Trade Winds allow for the perfect sailing environment and the once protecting coral reefs now provide visitors with exceptional snorkeling. Area beaches offer a secluded atmosphere of soft sand for miles. The nearby landmass named Barbuda, once a shipwreck site, is now a bird sanctuary. It is a natural paradise where visitors are able to unwind, enjoy dreamed about beach scenery, and have an experience unlike any other.

Individuals can find Antigua amidst the Leeward Islands as part of the Eastern Caribbean. It lies approximately seventeen degrees north from the Equator and ranks largest among Leeward isles using the English language. Winter temperatures remain around the seventies with summer temperatures spanning from eighty to ninety degrees Fahrenheit. With rainfalls for the year being approximately forty-five inches, this particular Eastern landmass offers the most sun of all Leeward locations. Antigua also experiences low humidity throughout the entire year consequently making it a true paradise to visitors.

What to Do at the Island of Antigua

The island delivers a wide variety of excursion activities to meet the individual desires of visitors. Here are a few options to consider when seeking fun water related events:

  • Kayaking
  • Snorkeling
  • Diving
  • Boating
  • Fishing
  • Sailing

Excursions in the area can be taken by land or water with day cruises, helicopter rides, sailing expeditions, deep sea fishing, and scenic tours being common. Numerous additional excursion choices exist for individuals wanting to see nature or simply do something different from the tourist norm. A bike ride or hike across the island is a good land activity for those who like to explore. Tennis, golf, hunting, and riding are a few of the sport related activities on the island of Antigua. Shirley heights supplies a stunning view of the English Harbour with festivities being held at the site on Sundays. Harmony Hail Art Gallery, Museum of Antigua, and Sea View Farm Village are additional area attractions. Visitors from all over the world come to this location to kick back and relax in an absolutely picture perfect beach atmosphere.

Barcelona, Spain: An Incentive Travel Featured Destination

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Barcelona, a major bustling port in Spain, offers a mixture of sea and wooded scenery. While this scenery can be found as part of the external surroundings, Barcelona also supplies a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Local eateries are typically packed with people enjoying great food that surpasses nearby tourist locations. The city is extremely dynamic with a little bit of older styled aspects and a large focus on the technical industry. As the capital of Catalonia, Barcelona has remained on the path toward making a mark in the arts, architecture, and fashion since the end of the 19th century. The region has its own specific language complimented by an interesting history.

While the city offers countless things to do, promising adventures lie right outside the inner limits. Beaches complimented by mountain ranges make up the external scenery of this tourist destination. Barcelona consists of a modern quarter called the Eixample, which contains several buildings with art nouveau style. The independent town of Gracia joined the metropolis during the 20th century. It consists of a younger cosmopolitan atmosphere where tourists are not as common. Sants-Montjuic, Sant Marti, and the Inland Suburbs are additional districts visitors have available when wanting to get a feel for the region.

Exploring the Exquisite Metropolis of Barcelona

Individuals or groups planning a trip to this beautiful city have to be careful as to when it takes place. August is one of the most hectic times of the year; however, various shops are closed during this time period. Owners of retail stores take their own vacation from August to September. Those wanting to experience the city when it is quieter can book at this time to receive reduced rates and arrive in a less active location as locals take vacations to other areas. It is a family location where locals put a great significance on the happiness of children. Residents attempt to cheer little ones up by entertain bored children and take measures to stop crying when a child becomes upset in public.

Visitors can get around by bus, bicycle, scooter, metro, and car depending on the location. Those wanting to experience the art of the city can purchase what is called an “articket” to cut costs involved with visiting the several museums located in the area. It covers the admission price for seven different museums for a day full of art by famous persons such as Picasso. Barri Gotic consists of zigzagging streets, beautiful squares, and stunning palaces. Guadi architecture can be found throughout portions of the city including:

  • Parc Guell
  • Sagrad Familia
  • La Pedrera
  • La Casa Batllo

A guidebook showing the art nouveau sites of all districts can be obtained from the Modernisme Centre. Visitors with children can consider attractions such as the Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Science, and the sandy beaches. Barcelona is a location full of history, stunning architecture, beautiful beach scenery, and plenty of things to do. It is a place many individuals choose to visit multiple times in order to experience the fun and astonishing beauty this cosmopolitan region has to offer.