Paris, France: An Incentive Travel Solutions Featured Destination

Paris, France is known for tourist attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Disneyland, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier; however, the city holds many more marvels. Located near the English Channel, Paris offers an experience unlike any other. Area climate is fed by the North Atlantic Current and provides a mild, yet sometimes wet environment. Summer days bring sunshine, a pleasant breeze, and temperatures from seventy-five to eighty degrees Fahrenheit. Rain can occur any time of the year with sudden showers being typical. June through September is the best time to visit in regards to the average weather pattern. Temperatures remain above sixty degrees Fahrenheit during the day to create an ideal atmosphere for seeing all the sights of this grand cultural city.

Notre Dame de Paris

This twelfth century cathedral of Gothic nature is located in the eastern portion of Paris. It contains the official chair of the Archbishop of Paris and is considered to be a fine example of French Gothic building design. While the cathedral did suffer damage during the French Revolution, the structure was restored to its original state by Eugene Viollet-le-Duc. It is an architectural masterpiece every individual should take a few minutes to view when visiting this city.

Napoleonic Arc de Triomphe

Monument construction began in 1806 by the ordering of Napoleon; however, it was not completed until 1836. The monument stands over fifty-one meters tall with a width of forty-five meters and provides visitors a stunning view of the city. As one of the most famous landmarks, the Arc de Triomphe resides in the midst of Place Charles de Gaulle for every individual to clearly see. It is a cornerstone for the line of monuments found between the Louvre courtyards and the Grand Arche de la Defense. The standing piece of artwork sets a patriotic tone for additional monuments in the city.

Musee du Louvre

Known as the Louvre Museum is the largest art institution throughout the world. The museum is located in the 1st arrondissement district on the right side of the Seine. It holds almost thirty-five thousand artifacts from periods prior to the nineteenth century in an exhibit area of more than six-hundred thousand square feet. This particularly famous museum is housed in a twelfth century fortress built for Philip II, the last King of Franks. The institution holds artifacts of Egyptian, Greek, Etruscan, Roman, Islamic, and modern origins. It is a must see for anyone who enjoys viewing historic art or the creations of varying cultures.

Tuileries Gardens

Originally the site of Tuileries Palace on the right side of the Seine River, this location is now the a focal point surrounded by the Louvre, the Seine, Place de la Concorde, and the Rue de Rivoli. The courtyard was opened to the public in 1883 with the garden spanning approximately sixty-three acres between local landmarks with a slight curve due to the nature of the Seine River. A contemporary art museum can be found at the Northwest corner along with numerous pools and foliage. It is a beautiful place to take a relaxing stroll or break while seeing all the exquisite sights held by this city.

Yasawa Islands, Fiji: An Incentive Travel Solutions Featured Destination

Yasawa Islands, Fiji is a group of varying sized landmasses with six specific locations being considered as the main region. The archipelago has a volcanic origin supplying mountainous views that stretch across the area making shipping difficult with the exception of this waterway location. Cruises have been common for numerous years; however, land tourism was not allowed until the late eighties. Three resorts began operations on Tavewa in the early eighties with Nanuya Levu or Turtle Island serving as a prominent resort area. This specific landmass was the focal point in the famous movie “The Blue Lagoon” and later purchased by Richard Evanson after filming was completed. Visitors must have permission to explore all islands with the exception of Tavewa making thorough planning essential when wanting to see this destination.

The Main Islands

The Yasawa Islands are found northwest of the Fiji mainland on the far most portion of the chained peninsula. They are surrounded on the western side by the South Pacific Ocean, but also bordered by three specific seas: Solomon, Coral, and the Tasman.

Landmasses include:

•    Kuata
•    Waya
•    Naviti
•    Nanuya
•    Nacula
•    Yasawa

Scenery comprises of the deep blue ocean, peaceful bays, and jagged mountain peaks. Activities include backpacking, snorkeling, beach fun, and participating in local cultural events. The Waya Islands, found in the southern portion of the chain, offers an astounding portrayal of the scenery found throughout this group of landmasses. Naviti is the largest island consisting of grassy hills, small offshore isles, and yearly manta ray congregations. Nacula, on the northern side of Naviti, is comprised of eight smaller isles where three upscale resorts operate. All other islands serve as backpacking havens for travelers with their own unique mix of scenery. The area is a one of the easiest to access portions of Fiji and popular among individuals wanting to experience their own version of paradise.

Main Attractions

The Kuata and Waya region deliver stunning walking paths, rocky peaks, and deep bays. Budget resorts for those desiring a stay right on the coastline are easy to find in this area. Kuata is an uninhabited location where a resort for nature oriented activities such as backpacking resides. Individuals can backpack in the natural scenery, dive, or try out snorkeling. Naviti, the largest landmass, consists of thin forests, grassy ridges, and small fishing villages. Tourists come to the location to swim with the manta rays or view countless tranquil lagoons. Resort environments with white sanded beaches provide various amenities to travelers.

Original Yasawa Island travel began in the vicinity of Tavewa, Nanuya, and the Nacula Isles. It is the busier portion of this chain offering many of the same activities as others with the addition of private beaches. Boats are the key access method with departures occurring daily. It is a beautiful destination individuals enjoy due to its closeness to nature, paradise like activities, and peaceful atmosphere. Any person wanting to spend a week in a location much like the paradises depicted in motion pictures should definitely consider Yasawa Islands as a top travel choice.

Limerick, Ireland: An Incentive Travel Solutions Featured Destination

Ireland, known for its Scottish heritage, is an island found just off the coast of continental Europe. Ranking third in size among all local islands, Ireland is a smaller neighbor to the United Kingdom. Its geography includes central plains, rivers, and lush vegetation with a milder climatic atmosphere fed by the Atlantic Ocean along with the Celtic Sea. Limerick is an Irish city found in the mid-western portion of the region with a history dating back to the early Viking settlements of the 800’s. The Normans brought notable architecture to Limerick with the most famous being King John’s Castle and St. Mary’s Cathedral. This city slowly grew into a trade area up to the eighteenth century; however, was hit hard by famine and political changes shortly after. Additions such as railways slowed down the economic decline, which ended in the nineties. These changes caused Limerick to become a central communication point for the region.

Local Irish Geography

The area climate is said to be temperate oceanic meaning it is mild with average temperatures ranging from sixty-eight degrees to thirty-nine degrees Fahrenheit depending on the time of the year. Limerick spans the Shannon River banks and has a bustling city environment due to its status as the Midwestern commercial capital. Individuals do not have to take taxies or travel extended distances to see the offered sights. Attractions can be found in the main section of the city on streets located to the south of the region’s most famous landmark, King John’s Castle. Irishtown surrounds this landmark and provides a good look into the cities historical origins. The castle was built on remnants of the original Viking settlement by the Normans and was taken over during the fall of Limerick to the Europeans. Today, the area is a cultural center to Ireland with University Concert Hall, the Customs House, and newer institutions offering a unique experience to visitors.

Limerick Area Attractions

Access to Limerick City is easily accomplishable through the Shannon Airport located only fifteen minutes away. King John’s Castle, built in 1212, is a top tourist attraction located next to the River Shannon. The fairly intact structure contains a few Viking architecture remains that have been uncovered on site. St. Mary’s Cathedral, founded in 1168, is a dedication to the Virgin Mary that remains as one of the oldest buildings in the city. Individuals can see the cathedral on all days except Sunday as it is still used by locals as a worship facility. Hunt Museum, home to the family’s personal collection, is available for exploring in an eighteenth century historic building called the Old Custom House. It houses thousands of artifacts from the region of Ireland along with many from other areas of the world. Seasonal tours can also be taken by boat or foot to view the city in its entirety. Limerick City Museum residing next to the castle offers numerous displays centered on the destinations history and manufacturing origins. Architecture, culture, rich history, and various attractions can be viewed by anyone traveling to this exclusive destination.

Tuscany, Italy: An Incentive Travel Solutions Featured Destination

tuscay italyTuscany, Italy is a location known for its extensive collection of worldly art from periods such as the Renaissance. The area holds paintings, sculptures, and stunning architectural creations from some of the most controversial times in our history. Visitors make their way to this destination for fine art as well as the beautiful countryside found in the region. Tuscany, also popular for its cuisine, wine, and offered landscape, allows individuals to tantalize their taste buds or become closer to nature by making their way down mountain paths or cycling through the rolling hills.

This location, bordering the Tyrrhenian Sea on the initial portion of the Italian boot, holds the popular areas of Florence, Siena, and Pisa. Its near vicinity to the sea delivers a large variety of scenery including an astonishing coastline sprinkled with multiple small islands. It is a hilly country where the climate varies based upon the exact physical location. Coastal sections have a milder climate while the interior portion supplies a challenging rainy atmosphere. Visitors making their way further inland can view vast hills, small plains, or the extensive mountain range.

Tuscany Area History
Early history is much like other regions with Greek cultures being prevalent. True civilization begins with the entrance of the Etruscans in early BC when the created a transport infrastructure used to accomplish both framing and mining. A Roman takeover in first century BC caused the cities of Lucca, Siena, Florence, and Pisa to be formed. New developments contributed by the Romans include sewage systems, architectural creations, and improvements of existing roadways. Goths took over the western portion after the collapse of Western Roman civilization. The area is a highly desired destination among those who enjoy learning about this time period in history.

The Tuscan Arts
Destination cultural heritage is immense with examples being present in churches, bastions, galleries, museums, and various villages. Visitors can view a vast array of masterpieces in the key cities of Florence, Siena, and Pisa; however, numerous artistic artifacts are also situated in the smaller communities of Tuscany. Florence is known for water-color creations in addition to its collection of Renaissance art pieces. Visitors have the opportunity to see several Renaissance architectural creations in this portion of the region. Individuals can find creations by famous painters like Giotto or marvel at the sculpture creations of Donatello or Brunelleschi. Exhibition halls can be found throughout the area with the Uffizi and the Bargello being notable attractions. Music, literature, and food are prevalent cultural items in this portion of Italy as well.

What to Do Tuscany Italy
Tourists are attracted to the relaxing atmosphere and rich experiences offered by Tuscany. Visitors can rent a bike or take a hike on countless nature trails, spend the day on the coastline, take a wine tour, or sit down at an exquisite eatery. Mild coastline temperatures make it easy to enjoy a beach oriented day. Anyone wanting to experience the culture or see historical artifacts of the region has countless exhibit choices in Florence and the surrounding cities. Determining what to do first will be the biggest challenge faced by anyone making their way to the beautiful countryside of Tuscany.

Banff, Alberta Canada: An Incentive Travel Solutions Featured Destination

banff canadaMany individuals do not immediately think of Canada when deciding on a traveling destination. It is a beautiful location often overshadowed by the hype of more popular places to visit. Banff, located in Alberta amidst the Rockies, can be found next to the Trans-Canada Highway. The community, ranking second in elevation, is surrounded by landmasses such as Mount Rundle, vast forests, and rivers. It is a popular destination for travelers wishing to see the countryside of Canada. Incorporated as part of Banff National Park, the town is most known for its mountain views, hot springs, and outdoor activities. Visitors who desire an active environment have a wide array of choices when planning their stay. Hiking, biking, and skiing are all prevalent activities in the area. The subarctic climate of this region creates low winter temperatures and moderate summer heat. Snow is possible throughout the entire year making it easy to experience scenery variances during a short stay.

Local Atmosphere
Abundant species can be found while walking on the trails or enjoying fun lake activities. Home to grizzlies, black bears, deer, elk, sheep, mountain goats, and numerous additional species, Banff brings one about as close to nature as possible without leaving the comfort of civilization. The national park is the oldest heritage site in the Canadian region with the community receiving the most tourism. Located in the Rocky Mountains, it offers a rugged atmosphere with towering land masses, glaciers, and the alpine tundra. The bottom of each valley consists of widespread trees with spruce being predominant. Rivers curve their way into the valleys through the vast plant life of the area. Banff has remained as a small community tucked into one of the narrow mountain valleys and is intersected by the famous Bow River. The main business portion spans over three small blocks to create a unique market atmosphere. Hot springs can be found to the south of Bow River while the Vermillion Lakes, consisting of marshy ponds chained together, are to the northeast.

Things to Do in Banff
The mountains are one of the biggest attractions in the area with Mount Rundle, Cascade Mountain, and Mount Norquay being the most notable. Visitors can ski on Norquay or take an adventurous bike ride through the Stoney Squaw section of this range. Banff Gondola can be used by travelers to access to the upper portion of Sulphur Mountain where ascendance can continue to Sanson Peak via a boardwalk. This area is also popular due to the Banff Upper Hot Springs found on Sulphur Mountain. The Minnewanka Lake, an active daytime location, resides only six miles from the community. Visitors take part in mountain biking, fishing, hiking, and various other activities in this park section. Tunnel Mountain, the Banff World Television Festival, and Bike Fest are additional drawing points of the area. Highly rated restaurants include the Bow Valley Grill, The Maple Leaf, and Nourish Vegetarian Bistro. Individuals making their way to this destination must take a minute to experience the natural springs or falls found near this travel destination.