A fellow Twitter connection from the Netherlands who is also interested in #dream #travel destinations had a recent family vacation to Boa Vista. He kindly shared his favourite photo of nearby beach ‘Praia de Salinas’ to where they were staying at Riu hotel Karamboa. It was his favourite because of the empty beach. Warm sea. Nice clouds. Sun. Peak of Estância (little molar on the left of horizon) in the background.

Photo courtesy of @JeanD99 and you can read more about his trip to Cape Verde – Harvesting Clouds. No kidding

A trek into the Sahara Desert by camel whilst in Morocco was experienced by Travel Tips Plus reader Julie. The trek was just a small group and allowed for many peaceful moments to enjoy the complete solitude the desert environment creates. The camels lumbered up and down the rolling dunes, passing only the odd tussock of grass and as evening came, the red, rolling dunes were replaced by a deep, black sky dotted with zillions of twinkling stars.

Photo courtesy of Australian reader Julie.

If you’re looking for inspiration for your next holiday, look no further than your favourite films. Whether it be an intimate tale of friendship and self-growth, a high stakes police chase thriller, or even a silly American teen fest, for decades road trip movies have thrilled and inspired us with the endless possibilities that come with travelling on the open road.

Film critics and bloggers everywhere believe there’s an undeniable link between the concept of the road, movie and the spirit of the USA as a country. So if you’re booking flights to the States anytime soon, take a cue from some well-known flicks and get road tripping, big-screen style.

THE MOVIE: Thelma and Louise (1991)

This classic starring Susan Sarandon, Geena Davis and Brad Pitt sees two small town girls embark on the journey of their lives as their quiet weekend getaway turns into a gripping police chase across the south of America as they attempt the drive from their home town of Arkansas to Mexico.

DO IT YOURSELF:

Thelma and Louise travel from Arkansas to the Grand Canyon via Oklahoma – a journey of roughly 23 hours without stops, but there are plenty of reasons to take some breaks along the way. Oklahoma City and Albuquerque are perfectly placed to make overnight stops along the way, and there’ll be plenty to see while driving through changes in scenery, from vast desert plains, to mountains, to acres of trees and greenery.

Thelma & Louise (20th Anniversary)

THE MOVIE: Highway (2002)

Set in 1994, this independent cult film sees two friends played by Jared Leto and Jake Gyllenhaal flee their home town of Las Vegas after Jack (Leto) is caught sleeping with a Vegas thug’s wife. The pair hit the road and make their way to Seattle, encountering a plethora of wild characters and odd experiences along the way.

DO IT YOURSELF:

The real trip from Las Vegas to Seattle is a long but beautiful scenic drive through mountain passes and plenty of national parks. There are a few different routes to take, all of which offer plenty of things to do for the nature lover. If you opt to start off along the mighty Great Basin Highway, Route 93, Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge offers fishing, hunting and miles of hiking trails, while Nesbitt lake is also a popular and fishing spot. The trip is approximately 20 hours of driving without stops.

Highway

THE MOVIE: Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998)

Another cult favourite starring Johnny Depp and Benicio Del Torro, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas follows the twisted drug-addled story of a wild journalist and his lawyer who trek from Los Angeles to Las Vegas to cover a motorcycle race.

DO IT YOURSELF:

You don’t need a boot full of drugs to recreate this road trip (in fact, we’d advise strongly against any kind of illegal behaviour…)The journey from LA to Vegas is one of the most well-known and popular road trip routes in America so expect traffic on the way, especially if you’re making to the trip on a weekend. Although it’s a relatively short drive of around 5 hours, there’s no reason to go straight from A to B. Make sure you stop past Baker to see the World’s Largest Thermometer, and there are plenty of outlet shops just outside Vegas to keep you busy for a few hours. Once in Vegas, it’s also easy to find cheap airfares to anywhere else in the country.

Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas

Author bio: Start planning your American road trippin’ adventure and get yourself on cheap flights to the USA. www.cheapflights.com has all the best flight deals.

Cairo, Egypt

Of all the countries in the world, Egypt is perhaps the best known for its historical sites and the sense they give of being truly in touch with the past. From the Pyramids of Giza, to the Colossus of Ramesses II in the ancient capital of Memphis, Egypt is an archaeology buff’s dream – and the scope of Egypt’s archaeological past is certainly beyond the one trip. At the same time, there’s so much more to Egypt holidays than merely touring around the pyramids and being pushed through the crowded Cairo museum. With that in mind, here are three different activities that give a truly unique perspective on this mysterious country.

Cairo Tower

Nestled in the heart of modern Cairo is the Cairo Tower – shaped as a Lotus flower, a symbol of the pharaohs, it is the tallest building in the country. Located on Gezira Island on the Nile, the tower is currently undergoing restoration in preparation for the tower’s 50th anniversary in April 2011. The tower sports a moving restaurant that completes a full rotation every hour, though those on a budget can still travel to the top and make use of several telescopes to view all of Cairo in detail.

Camel riding

Camel riding by starlight

Savvy travellers familiar with Egypt will have definitely experienced this one at some point. From the Harem district in Cairo it’s possible to hire horses or even a camel to ride out into the desert, taking in the pyramids and the Sphinx. The best time to do this is at night – few things are as memorable as approaching the pyramids by moonlight. Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for something a little more adventurous, several companies within Egypt offer camping trips to the hauntingly beautiful white desert, where lavish tents will be set up for your stay and delicious barbecue treats served up each night. Travel is usually by jeep, but intrepid travellers can stay truly authentic by hiring camels.

Ballooning over the Nile

Hot-air balloon over the Nile

If you’ve got a bit of spare cash, it’s worth considering a hot-air balloon ride – which can take you towards the Valley of the Kings or the Nile at sunrise for a truly unforgettable experience. Remember to take your camera – you’ll be witness to views only a small number of people will have seen! Just make sure that you go with a reputable company – many hot air balloon companies are in stiff competition with each other, desperately undercutting each other on price and hence avoiding some of that important stuff like, well, insurance.

Top 10 Cairo and the Nile

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TravelTipsPlus Google Map of Cairo

One Great Reason to Visit Cairo

One great reason to visit this travel destination is without a doubt, for the history, the pyramids and the Egyptian museum which houses such treasures.

Cairo – Egypt

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Jardin Majorelle is an expatriate French painter’s botanical garden created in Marrakech during 1924 and was recently enjoyed by guest writer, Julie Wilson.

For an oasis of serenity and shade on a hot day in Marrakech, visit the Jardin Majorelle. Wander along the straight red concrete paths lined with bright coloured pots in this medium-sized garden brimming with cacti, palms, bougainvilleas and bamboo groves. Majorelle was a knowledgeable and avid plant collector. The dry sandy garden beds are studded with a botanical planting of cacti.

Water is an important feature of this garden – lily covered pools filled with small tortoises and lazily active fish, water channels and fountains are highpoints. When I wandered through birdsong filled the air.

The garden was created in the 1920s by the French painter Jacques Majorelle. Rather like Monet’s Giverny, as the garden was designed by a painter the garden is composed and coloured like a painting. Many of the built features are painted in a dark blue (‘Majorelle Blue’) which is striking – contrasting wonderfully well with beige sand, green plants and red paths.

After some years of neglect, the garden was restored by the fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. The entrance fee is only 30 MD but when inside, the prices both in the shop and cafe, are very high by Moroccan standards. The delightful cafe has misters which puff out a cloud of cooling mist to help refresh diners with the intense summer heat. I ordered an almond milk with orange blossom water and dates – expensive but wonderful !

Be warned that the taxis outside the entrance seem to see this as a bit of a tourist trap and inflate their prices accordingly – so bargain hard or walk up the road 5 minutes to the crossing and pay much less (20 dirham should get you most places in central Marrakech).

Marrakech: Living on the Edge of the Desert

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TravelTipsPlus Google Map of Jardin Majorelle

One Great Reason to Visit Jardin Majorelle

One great reason to visit this travel destination is to see this inspired garden, the Jardin Majorelle, garden created by a Frenchman living in Morocco.

Majorelle Gardens in Marrakech

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When visiting Morocco, the bustling city of Marrakech is the first port of call for many guests. The former capital and imperial city of Morocco, also known as the “Red City”, is rich in history and offers a wealth of natural, beautiful attractions, as well as lively street markets and a labyrinth of narrow streets to discover in the medina. Whether you want to soak up the city life or escape to the blissful Ourika River with it’s tranquil waterfalls, Marrakech is the ideal base. Wrap up in oriental charm in a historic house known as a riad – here are our seven favourite Riad hotels in Marrakech where you’re guaranteed a stylish stay.

Riad Al Assala Medina

Riad Al Assala Medina is located in the peaceful old town and the spacious five star suites make for an extremely sensual and intimate experience. A charmingly sized luxury abode with authentic Moroccan design, furnished in a clean, modern style. Only a walk away from the cultured Jemaa-el-Fna square, it provides guests with easy access to the hustle and bustle of Marrakesh, and the stunning rooftop terrace invites guests to soak up the sun and the city skyline.

Riad Demeures d’Orient

Riad Demeures d’Orient is hidden away in the heart of the Red City, it has an unique full view of the city’s ancient walls. With a mixture of Moroccan and Far Eastern architecture, the atmospheric five star resort is like no other. This idyllic sanctuary holds host to a neo-gothic library and a plethora of beautiful mosaics, whilst guests can relax with massages or in the traditional hammam spa. The soul of the Riad is the courtyard with marble fountain, swimming pool, lounge chairs and refreshing shade.

Dar Darma

Dar Darma is an extravagant Riad designed with moody dark colours and features like mirrored walls and large shapely pots in the rooms and common areas, creating an ambience of history and romance. The Dar Darma houses a grand inner court, a comfortable salon, a terrace, a restaurant and large, opulent beds in the glamorous suites. With children as welcome as adults, this city palace encourages all to visit.

Villa Shayanne

Villa Shayanne is located within ten kilometres of central Marrakech, meaning the five star resort offers the ultimate getaway for pure relaxation. Clear views of the Atlas Mountains and surrounding scenery make the Villa Shayanne an idyllic haven. The mixture of modern European design and traditional Moroccan elements gives the resort an exotic charm. With golf and tennis lessons or a tour of Moroccan cuisine, you can avoid the busy city but still enjoy the culture.

Riad Dixneuf La Ksour

Riad Dixneuf La Ksour is found in the heart of Medina, a peaceful back drop adjacent to the cultural blood lines of the Old City. The picturesque and classical Riad has a ancestral blend of modern design with the Moroccan tradition. A panoramic view of the Atlas mountains makes for an unforgettable stay. The six amorous suites have light, modern colours and the courtyard with swimming pool make the Dixneuf La Ksour a gleaming jewel in the rich tapestry of Marrakech.

Les Jardins de la Médina

Les Jardins de la Médina is an oasis just outside the medina walls. Time honoured tradition meets contemporary design, a large luscious garden makes this four star Riad is a sanctuary away from the busy lifestyle of the city. This historic hotel was a 19th century royal palace making it the perfect choice for honeymoons and romantic breaks, as the salons are now sumptuous rooms. The ancient garden gives life to Palm, Orange and Jacaranda trees. The swimming pools, Jacuzzis and beautiful songbirds create a tranquil atmosphere.

Dar Chérif

Dar Chérif is located on the road to Quarzazate, only ten minutes away from the Red City. Subtlety, calm and modest decor make Dar Chérif a true gift, with just six luxurious suites. Set in the centre of Andalusian gardens, the beauty and ambience is unrivalled. Decorated with authentic Moroccan pieces including Zellige, Tadelakt and Bejmat elements, all guests will leave well cultured in Moroccan art. Traditionally themed rooms and customary Moroccan food means you will sample the history and legacy of this great region.

Guest contribution from Escapio.com where these romantic Moroccan hotels and Riads are just a handful of the luxury, boutique and design hotels perfect for a long holiday or a weekend break.

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Alice Springs is the little, desert town located bang in the center of great, big Australia. It’s more-or-less half way between Adelaide to the south and Darwin to the north, making it an ideal travel destination to break the long journey in either direction. Alice Springs draws travellers from all over the world as a base to explore the beautiful red centre. The nearby sites include Alice Springs Desert Park, Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Larapinta Trail, the Flying Doctor Service and further afield, Uluru and Kings Canyon.

Today, on the 10 July, Alice Springs is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the annual ‘Camel Racing Cup’ which draws town folks and tourists from all over to watch the spectacle and have a lot of fun! The first Camel Race was run in 1970 in the dry Todd River Bed as a bet between two mates, Noel Fullerton and Keith Mooney-Smith. Since then, the race is held annually including a festival atmosphere with stalls, entertainers, rides, food and drink stalls, live music and Camel Cup souvenirs. No Australian race would be without ‘Fashions on the Field’ and this is distinctly ‘central Australian’ in flavour.

A Town like Mparntwe: A Guide to the Dreaming Tracks and Sites of Alice Springs

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TravelTipsPlus Google Map of Alice Springs

One Great Reason to Visit Alice Springs

One great reason to visit this travel destination during July is to witness the camel racing spectacle which draws people in from all over.

Camel Cup, Alice Springs, Australia

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Atlantis The Palm Big Break Competition

Win the holiday of a lifetime for you and 9 friends and family at Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai for 5 nights in 5 deluxe rooms. The prize includes round-trip economy air, luxurious airport transfers, breakfast daily and dinner for 10 at Ronda Locatelli.

Atlantis The Palm Romantic Rendezvous

Win a fantastic romantic weekend for you and a guest for 3 nights in an Imperial Club Room. Prize includes round-trip economy air, luxurious airport transfers, breakfast daily, dinner for 2 at Nobu, dinner for 2 at Seafire and Spa treatments for 2.

Both competitions are open to anyone over 18 years of age and close at midnight, Dubai time, on the 25th June 2010. Click here to READ MORE.

A Random Video Entry

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On a recent trip to Europe, Roger returned to Melbourne, Australia via Dubai. My parents also recently returned from the middle east via Dubai and they too witnessed the extravagance of this desert city, including the opulent, Burj Khalifa which towers high into the sky and almost requires a vertical panorama photo to be captured!

Photo courtesy of Roger Pugsley.

Gap Adventures is currently running a competition to design your own dream adventure. There are a number of requirements to be met and as I’m all for the adventure, dream, travel destinations, I set to work to create my custom design tour. The tour I have created takes in Senegal and Mali in the heart of West Africa, an area I’ve been longing to visit for many years, especially the amazing Djenne Mosque.

“Enjoy the sounds, colours and aromas of exotic Dakar, the home to the famous ‘Dakar Car Rally’. Take in Dakar’s markets, nearby ocean beaches and tropical rainforests. Enjoy a Senegal drumming class. Visit the first French settlement of Saint Louis, and like Île de Gorée, both were fortified collection points for slaves bound for the Americas…” – PLEASE READ MORE & VOTE