Fantastic Provence Towns

For many people thinking about booking one of the many luxury villas in France, picking where to stay can be tricky. This article looks at the Provence region and the types of towns that Provence villas have easy access to.

First on our list is the beautiful town of Uzès. The town could be considered a window to the past with its old towers rising up above the rooftops and its narrow winding streets. The town was also home to famous French figures like the dramatist Racine, who claimed the town inspired the only comedy he ever wrote Les Plaideurs. The town was also described by King Louis XIII as the "premier duchy of France" and this really comes though with its fantastic setting.

Next up is the fantastic town of Roussillon, set on a pretty little hilltop just Northeast of Gordes, and is surround by fantastic views out over the surrounding countryside. The towns name translates into "russet" in English, which perfectly describes the ochre coloured earth of the local area. The earthy red colour is also matched in the buildings of the town that are all shades of dark reds, burnt orange and dusky pink. This makes for a beautiful sight at sunset as the who town seems to glow with a breath taking brilliance.

Third on our list is the gorgeous medieval hill village of Roquebrune, located in the Eastern Riviera just south west of Menton. This gem of a village, said to be one of the finest along the Côte d'Azur, has been extensively restored over the years to a point where you get a real feel for what it must have felt like back in medieval times. The town features a series of winding alleys and steep stairways that converge at the feudal castle that crowns the village.

The penultimate choice on our list is the brilliant little town of Cordes-sur-Ciel, another hill top town filled with fascinating little snippets of history. The old houses, narrow alleys and prominent Gothic arches wont fail to charm you and the fantastic range of arts and crafts available in this town is astonishing.

Finally on the list, but in no way the worst, is another of Provence's fantastic hill villages. The village of Gordes, just east of Avignon, is perhaps one of the best known villages in Provence. The village today is populated by many artists escaping life in the busier cities. You can find silks, potters, weavers and many others in the village, and with its beautiful setting and fantastic traditional looks it's easy to see why.

AK Villas are experts in the field of Provence villas who also offer an extensive range of Luxury villas in France.

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Advanced Driving - The Diamond Special Test

On Passing the Diamond Special Test

After giving driving lessons in Nottingham for some years I decided to update my driving skills by taking the Diamond Special test again after some years without retraining. The following is article is a guide on using commentary driving to improve advanced driving skills both in terms of forward planning and hazard awareness.

After passing the Diamond Special test in 2005, I considered my driving to be of a very high standard. Upon learning that the test now has a three year life span, I decided it was time to take the test again and purchased the Diamond 'Manoeuvres and Hazard Perception' DVD to use as a study aid. Like most ADIs, I regularly demonstrate the manoeuvres to pupils and did not anticipate having any problems in this area. However, I was greatly impressed by the commentary drive section of the DVD and realised that this is perhaps something I have neglected in my own driving. I have used commentary techniques in a limited way when training PDIs for the part 2 test of driving ability, but have never utilized it as a major part of driver training. After a few 10 minute commentary drives I believed my hazard perception and planning skills to be up to scratch and made a date to re-take the test.

I met Diamond Examiner Russell Jones DipDI in a local area and began the test. After 30 minutes of driving in an unfamiliar area I noticed that my concentration was wavering and I was finding it very difficult to remain totally alert to the driving situation. The route for the Special test was quite complex, taking in many country roads and small villages. Working and living in a city environment, this is a type of driving which I am not practised in. Junctions were obscured by trees and hills which made them very difficult to approach at the correct speed. Driving in an unfamiliar urban location on a multi lane road made reading signs and markings, as well as navigating the traffic flow very challenging indeed.

After 90 minutes of driving the test was over and I was not really surprised to find I was unsuccessful on this occasion. Approaching junctions, timing of signals and late decisions regarding road markings had been the problem areas. The day after the test I had another look at the Diamond Hazard perception DVD and noticed how far below the standard I actually was.

Commentary - training for the intuitive drive

Commentary is a proven way to develop advanced driving skills. It enables skills to be brought into conscious awareness where they can be analysed and refined by the driver aiming for a point where they become intuitive and automatic. I find commentary driving greatly improves the effectiveness of early observations by encouraging an active scanning process, the driver becomes more actively interested in the drive which leads to a greater awareness of the driving environment. A greater sense of timing is achieved, encouraging smooth use of the MSPSL routine and greater vehicle sympathy. Without commentary it is easy for a driver to lapse into a daydreaming state, resulting in looking at a fixed point ahead and missing vital driving information, attention is focussed elsewhere rather than on the driving task.

I found it best to build a commentary system up using the Observation-Anticipation-Planning system shown in the DVD. Start by talking through the hazard routine as you use it, mentioning all stages of MSPSL including physical actions such as mirror checks, braking, gear change etc. This first stage improves the coordination of the controls, encouraging a higher level of vehicle sympathy. Mirror checks become more regular, acceleration sense is brought into play resulting in much less need for harsh braking. Questioning whether each gear change is absolutely necessary develops a much more economical driving style and smoother ride. Timing and consistency in the use of signals is brought to the attention, are you making best use of them? As you get through the awkward stage of talking to yourself expand into MSPSLADA and you will see this is a very flexible and comfortable system of car control, changing from the rigid by the numbers style taught to learners during their early stages into a fluid and involving system of driving.

Next, start to add other elements into the commentary. Road signs and markings can be seen and their meanings spoken aloud, along with the course of action taken as a result of seeing the sign. You may find that signs begin to appear that simply did not attract your attention before. 'Saying what you see' helps to develop an active scanning process. Keeping the eyes moving helps the driver to gain information to the front, sides and rear of the car. This is essential when driving in an unfamiliar area. Late and incorrect decisions are so easy if you are not sure where you are headed for, commentary helps a driver to sort and prioritise visual information leading to earlier decisions, alleviating stress and assisting in the forming of a driving plan. Lane changing, speed management and car control all improve when we see the signs and markings early.

Add the actions of other road users into the mix. The unpredictability of some road users combined with an ever changing traffic scene gives the commentary a sense of calm urgency. Attention is totally focussed on the drive, cutting down reaction times by allowing the driver to anticipate the actions of others at a much earlier stage. By talking through the actions of other road users, observation links can be made, helping prevent the driver from having to make last minute snap decisions. As a result all actions take on a smooth and unhurried approach, the driver has taken control of the situation and can more easily manage risk.

Finally, add environmental factors such as road and weather conditions. Notice the road surface, bends, trees and buildings, Is the road wet or dry? By describing the physical environment aloud during commentary, an awareness of how the vehicle is directly affected can be developed and the drive planned in accordance. Potholes and debris in the road can be avoided without the need for harsh steering, the vehicle can be positioned to gain the best possible view of the road ahead, speed can be altered early to allow for restricted zones of vision.

When all these elements are combined into a comprehensive commentary the driver is in a better position to produce the standard of drive demanded by the Special Test. I have also found that after regular practise of commentary, driving instruction improves as well. The learner's attention can be directed towards hazards earlier leading to greater opportunities for the use of Q & A. Inviting commentary from a pupil makes the lesson more interesting by involving them directly in the decision making process as well as developing planning skills.

After much practise of commentary driving I took the Diamond Special Test again and was successful in passing. I did notice a definite improvement in my drive compared with the first attempt. It is good to know my skills are back up to scratch and surprising how much they deteriorate if not practised regularly. I would recommend the Diamond Special test to any instructor who takes their profession seriously as it offers an excellent opportunity to improve a wide range of driving and teaching skills.

More info at http://www.mydrivinginstructortraining.com

My name is Russ Chaplin. I am a driving instructor working in the Nottingham area. I am a Diamond Advanced instructor, holding the Diploma in driving instruction and have passed the Diamond Advanced and Special driving tests. As an ORDIT registered driving instructor trainer, I am qualified to deliver training for all parts of the ADI qualifying examinations, as well as Check test re-assessment. I teach all levels of driving and also deliver the Pass Plus post test driving course.

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The Music Lovers Guide to the Balearics

More recently the Balearic Isles have been associated with being a clubbers paradise, especially Ibiza. And for good reason too. In Majorca too, you can head to Tito's or Araxes for classic dance anthems and cutting edge sounds. But the islands have a long history with music, and provide classical, traditional and modern music, catering for all tastes throughout the season, and it doesn't end when the tourists go home.

Jazz

Formentera has had jazz concerts on Saturday nights from 10:00 p.m. to approximately 1:00 a.m. all summer long in the Plaza de Sant Francesc. It's a tradition that's lasted 15 years now, and the number of concerts, as well as the number of listeners has been growing year on year.

Ciutadella, Majorca, is relatively quiet, but it does offer a wide variety of clubs, one of which is Jazzbah in Pla de Sant Joan. This jazz club offers a cool cats' refuge from the thumping dance beats providing high standards of live music every weekend.

Classical

Coves del Drac (Cuevas del Drac in Castilian) is a well known tourist spot, with throngs of tourists being lead through the lit cave system. The end of the walk leads to a massive natural amphitheatre and there, as in the Coves d'es Hams, the lucky travellers are treated to a classical music performance on a stage floating on an underground lake. The whole thing is really very well done, even if the actual caves are often heaving with tourists.

Pollença Music Festival is organized annually. Eleven classical music concerts are staged throughout July and August. In Palma, the Bellver Castle Music Festival takes place in the open air courtyard of Bellver Castle, creating a wonderful atmosphere. It takes place every year in July.

If opera is more your thing, you should try to get tickets to one of the annual Maó Opera Season in Menorca. Held at Maó's Teatre Principal since 1972 there are 2 opera seasons during June and December.

It's also worth checking what's on at the Auditorium Majorca. Concerts, spectacular opera or theatre performances are often staged.

Traditional

Various bars and hotels run regular flamenco nights, and most hotels will open these nights to all comers, not just residents. Other traditional music, specific to the Balearic Isles can be found during fiestas. Christmas Songs, Caramelles, are played traditionally in Formentera's and Ibiza's churches during the Christmas period. Or there is the traditional 'cantada'. Cantadas are a major part of the festival of Saint James, held every July 25th. The songs are intended to resolve the differences between the sexes, various churches and venues in Formentera will have performances around the time of the festival.

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Top Activities for Dublin Vacationers

Dublin is a very popular destination among backpackers from all over the globe. The city is known for its lively culture, warmth, history, strong traditions and the lovely landmarks it houses. Once you land in Dublin, there are such a wide variety of activities to choose from, that you might just end up missing out on few of them. Here is an easy to follow guide to touring the Irish capital.

Culinary Explorations: The Irish cuisine is not very widespread but for tasting authentic Irish food, what better place to be in, than Dublin. After all Ireland is incomplete without its traditional stew and steak. Get your mouth on some of the best cooked steaks, traditional soups and salads at the many restaurants in Dublin. While the smaller café's and pubs offer these delicacies at reasonable rates, the more high-end restaurants like Peploe's cater to fine dining. Irish fast food is unique too and the burgers and malts are lip smacking, to say the least. Taste awesome food, the Irish way at the numerous sea food restaurants. There is usually an international menu offered with high quality wines on the cards as well. However, on the alcohol front try some traditional Irish beer and if you dare, a forbidden taste of poteen. A couple of the best places to sit and enjoy the flavors of Dublin are the Temple Bar and the Porterhouse.

Historical Explorations: If the history student in you had been lying dormant for ages, Dublin provides the perfect trigger to awaken it. With the large number of sites which have interesting historical significance, the city of Dublin needs to be visited for the historic treats it houses. The best among these are the Dublin Castle, the Kilmainham Gaol, Guinness Storehouse, the National Museum of Ireland, Christ Church, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Leinster House, James Joyce Museum, National Library and the Custom House. These sights are all lovely and give visitors a feel of the Irish roots and what the Irish had been through over the ages.

Cultural Explorations: With such rich traditions and history, the Irish could never be far off on the cultural front. The first thing that creeps into one mind on this aspect is the famed Dublin theater scene. With the Abbey and the Gate theatre, the Dublin trip is indeed incomplete without having revisited the plays of Synge and Yeats, which put Ireland on the world map. The association of these theaters with historic actors, who made it big on the Broadway and New York stage, can be felt only on a theater trip here. Walk through the gardens of Trinity College and come face to face with intellectualism and a unique tranquility. Visit Andrew's Lane for a dose of Irish music or the Dublin Fringe Festival if you are lucky enough.

Shopping and Miscellaneous: Shop at the Grafton Street and Henry Street. The Cake Café, the Dubh Linn Gardens and the Loft Market are spots which must be visited at least once to savor the Irish cakes, scenery and the trends in fashion respectively. Explore the local pubs and cafes all over Dublin before your trip ends. With excellent brews and espressos on offer, these are not part of the culinary exploration but form an inseparable part of a vacation in Dublin. Visit the Dublin Spire or Spike, which marks the millennium celebrations of Dublin. The largest sculpture, the spire is a perfect spot to explore on the tail end of the trip.

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Things to Do in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Over the past ten years, Costa Rica real estate has become very popular, especially for buyers from the U.S. and Canada. People flock to the country to enjoy the warm sun, long stretches of beach, and tropical mountains. Costa Rica is known for its diverse plant and animal life, with one in every 20 species of animals and plants in the world taking up residence here.

It goes without saying that Costa Rican beaches are popular. There are not many places in the world where people can reside by the shoreline and view nearby mountains. Manuel Antonio is considered one of the most exclusive areas of the country. What began as a small village with a lovely national park became more popular as tourists discovered the area.

Though Manuel Antonio National Park encompasses just 4,014 acres, it features beaches, offshore islands, wildlife, and a rainforest with walking trails. It is not uncommon to see a variety of monkeys, some sloths, and coatimundis here. If visitors look hard, they may even find a beautiful scarlet macaw. More than 150,000 people visit this park each year and the high volume caused the Park Service to begin limiting visitors to 600 daily.

When not visiting the park or relaxing on the beach, tourists and residents enjoy SCUBA diving, surfing, snorkeling, and sport fishing. Rafting on the Naranjo or Savegre River is a great way to spend a day in the gorgeous weather. Early morning or evening hours are the perfect times for a horseback ride. Riders travel to one of the pristine waterfalls like Tocori and enjoy the relaxing sights and sounds.

At night, there is plenty to do and see in Manuel Antonio. Popular restaurants include Bogart's, which features Lebanese cuisine, and multiple seafood establishments such as Claro Que Si and Marlintinis. There are even vegetarian dining options like Mira Olas. After dinner, the Byblos Resort located on the road to the park features a lively casino for those who enjoy gambling. An on-site sports bar allows patrons to catch up on the latest scores.

Whether real estate in Manuel Antonio is purchased as a vacation property, retirement residence, or to rent to tourists, the investment is a smart move. There is so much to experience here, all of it offered in an environment that continues to amaze. Sometimes, it will be awe-inspiring enough just to sit in a chair and take it all in because this truly is paradise.

Costa Rica real estate has become one of the hottest commodities in the real estate market. If you are considering purchasing Costa Rica real estate as an investment or to make a permanent move, visit CostaRicaEye.com today!

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Delivered Into Freedom

During a trip to South India in the 1990's, I was fortunate to travel with Loretta's group. By the time we taxied into Puttaparthi, it was too late for ashram life; we only had time for supper at one of the local hotels. Early the next morning after the rain stopped, we felt electrified as we landed in the front row at darshan (the sighting of a holy person). This was an extreme experience: first darshan, first row; and in those days, the first row really meant the first line. We didn't mind that the cement felt damp or that water puddles from the summer monsoon downpour collected near our feet.

Swami floated in on an ocean of silence. As he came closer, everyone reached toward him to offer letters, longing to receive a blessing. He strode intimately close and said, "Wait, wait, wait."

We felt elated that spoke to our group, and upon arrival at that. We hoped we were waiting for that sought after interview.

Liberation or Naught

A few days later we traveled to Whitefield. A handful of us stopped off at the Boy's College office after lunch. Dr. Anil Kumar, the principal, knew Loretta, and after a short conversation he invited us to tour the college.

We were treated like VIP's. As we entered each classroom in session, the boys stood in respect. Those moments felt extraordinary as we breezed through the college corridors in the company of Dr. Kumar. When we were about to leave, he guided us into the auditorium jingling his set of keys as a percussion instrument and singing in full crescendo-the man had a phenomenal bass voice.

Although his professional studies were in Botany, Dr. Kumar's true gift was public speaking. After the song he broke into a mystery, sharing secrets of an intimate conversation he had with the Master.

"Would you aspire for liberation?" Swami asked.

"Not really," he replied.

"And, why not?" The smile from the Master's lips was engaging and the look in his eye questioning.

"It sounds desirable, at least we've been told to renounce this world and strive for release, to reach moksha, and end the cycle of birth and death," Dr. Anil Kumar spoke while the Master's attention was riveted. "But, I've never experienced this, so how can I desire it? I have to trust, not knowing anything about that experience. But, the world-I know."

A New Life

This is the crux of the issue: to let go of the birth-death cycle is to aspire for a part of our journey that is unknown--it's a new world, uncharted territory-from which we will not return to this worldly life. We need to wait until the inspiration for this spiritual endeavor fires our passion.

To receive this blessing we need to burn the boats, so to speak, leap ahead knowing that we must fight or perish and never turn back. This will give us the confidence, directive, fortitude and will to implement the changes necessary so we succeed.

You have the potential. The ruby slippers are on your feet.

Diane Carol Mark brings a personal touch to her writing from fourteen years of extensive Asian travel. In addition to writing as a career for over ten years, Diane is a professional fine artist who lives in the Pacific Northwest. Dailey Swan Publishing has scheduled her novel Gold: The Zen of Dr. Shu Li for publication in July 2012. She has studied in an Intensive Individual Writers Program with author and teacher, Tom Bird. Her editor is the renowned Paul McCarthy, New York editor of nine #1 New York Times and international bestselling authors.

See her blogs at http://oracleofthewest.com/

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A Future of Flight Education in Everett, Washington

Have you ever wondered how Boeing puts together the massive 747 jets and other commercial airplanes that fly in and out of Seattle-Tacoma International airport and others worldwide every day? The Future of Flight Tour in Everett, Washington, gives visitors the opportunity to see how commercial jets are assembled, step by step. The Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour is the only place in North America where you'll find a publicly available tour of a commercial jet assembly plant, giving children and adults a unique opportunity to learn the inner workings of a Boeing jet.

The tour starts with a 28,000 square foot Aviation Center Gallery. The Gallery includes an Airplane Design Zone, where you can bring a commercial jet design of your own to life on the interactive touch-screen computers. Kids can even print their final jet airplane schematic to take home. The design process teaches children all of the technical details of jet airplane construction and flight.

The Passenger Experience Zone gives visits a sneak peek of the new 787 Dreamliner's in-flight entertainment system. The modern new jet includes flat screen HDTVs in the cabins and fold down TVs behind each chair. Once you've walked through the new jet, Boeing sends you to their Research Experience Lab to ask for your opinion as a potential passenger.

For curious science-minded visitors, the Future of Flight Tour offers a Flight Systems Zone. The Flight Systems area satisfies the curiosity of those who wonder "Just how did this plane get up so high?" during flight. The tour includes complexities of avionics, navigation and hydraulics. Children who start to yawn at learning about the level of air compression on the wings that makes a plane fly can be dropped off in an aviation play area. The kids zone is filled with aviation toys for children as young as toddler age.

Jet engine technology has drastically changed since its initial launch in commercial airplanes. The Future of Flight Tour's Propulsion & Jet Engine Zone shows video animation and real-life examples of parts and engines to commercial jets throughout history to today. The most modern exhibit shows the Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 jet engine, which launched for its flight in December of 2009. The Trent 1000, currently flying in Boeing 787s, is the quietest, cleanest, and most fuel-efficient airframe in flight.

The Future of Flight Tour stays true to the name by launching a visitor in to the future of aviation and jet engine technology. The future focuses on sustainable, environmentally sound jet engines using alternative fuel. According to Boeing, the future of renewable jet fuel may not be far off.

The Future of Flight tour is in Everett, Washington, 25 miles north of Seattle. The Courtyard North Seattle-Lynnwood hotel offers a package special that includes tickets to the Boeing Future of Flight tour.

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Horton Plaza in San Diego

Before it was redeveloped as a shopping center in downtown San Diego in 1985, Horton Plaza was just a grassy area surrounded by banks of flowers and plants. The entire area seemed to be run-down by the 1960's and was home to a large population of homeless. Oddly enough, on November 2, 1960, then Senator John F. Kennedy spoke at Horton Plaza to make a last minute appeal for votes just six days prior to the 1960 Presidential Election.

Horton Plaza was definitely a departure from the standard mall design when it opened in August 1985. With its mismatched levels, long one-way ramps, drop-offs that seem to appear suddenly from nowhere, small and large cul-de-sacs and of course the brightly painted facades of the buildings, this outdoor shopping extravaganza was a risky and very radical design compared to other "standard-looking" shopping malls.

Anchored by Nordstrom and Macy's, it has five levels of shopping which include over 130 retail stores. In addition, there's a food court, fine dining, an ice-skating rink, the UA Horton Plaza 14 Movie Theatre, the Lyceum Theatres (Home of the San Diego Repertory Theatre), and so much more, all combined in a unique and colorful architectural design.

The Horton Plaza Parking Garage is an experience in itself. Pay close attention to where you park, because if you forget, you could spend hours looking for your car. Each area is designated with colorful painted walls with either a fruit or vegetable designed to help you remember when you parked.

Located on the west side of the Gaslamp Quarter between 1st and 4th Avenues, and near PETCO Park and additional downtown shopping, this unusual mall is in the middle of many tourist attractions throughout downtown San Diego. The Shopping Concierge Center on the 1st Floor provides a great deal of assistance to visitors - and sometimes even San Diego residents - needing help.

Be adventurous; take the Trolley to Downtown San Diego and Horton Plaza. Both the Blue and Orange Trolley Lines get you within four blocks of most attractions. Both lines stop at the Civic Center station, which is the closest to Horton Plaza. (The mall is two blocks south of the station.) Walking around Downtown San Diego is easy since it is mostly flat.

Horton Plaza, is more than just a mall, it's a place to spend your day or just a few hours having fun. So don't wast another minute and come see what your are missing.

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Cruise Back in Time Along the Canal Du Midi

Imagine journeying at a leisurely pace through the sun drenched countryside and historic villages of Southern France aboard a canal barge, at times forgetting not only what hour of the day it might be, but what century the boat is floating through. Dreams become a reality when touring by barge along the fabled Canal du Midi through the Languedoc region of France.

Just a portion of France's unique canal system linking major towns and tiny medieval villages, the Canal du Midi passes through the coastal plain and stony hills where wine grapes flourish in the brilliant sunshine. A fiercely independent region, its rich history and deep traditions strongly influence the scenic area.

Originally built to support the region's trade in wheat and wine, the Canal du Midi is today a major tourist attraction. Whether traveling by barge or bicycling along the old towpath bordering the canal, it makes a remarkable journey through one of France's most treasured regions. Lined with trees, the canal's route is perfect for today's pleasure craft. The thousands of planted trees act as natural air conditioning, keeping boat travelers comfortable in the hot summers. The entire 240 kilometer canal, from Toulouse to the Mediterranean, is a World Heritage Site.

Step aboard a barge and enter a world of cruising like no other. The gentle pace allows full immersion into the life of the area. Perfect for a family vacation, stops can be easily made to explore the area's intriguing scenery, cultural offerings and incredible cuisine and wines.

Self-drive tours are perfect for the adventuresome. No license is required and the pace is slow enough for safe and fun family cruising. Prefer to be pampered as you travel the waterway? Take a luxurious cruise on a fully crewed hotel barge, experiencing the ultimate in travel along the historic Canal du Midi.

A photographer's dream, the barge moves slowly so incredible photographs of stone bridges, vineyards and medieval villages can be taken from on board. Want to spend an afternoon exploring? Just stop, disembark and enjoy. Keep a photo-journal of the adventure to preserve the precious memories.

After its original course around the outskirts of the city of Carcassonne proved inconvenient, the Canal du Midi was reconstructed to flow through the city in the late 1700s and early 1800s. Now travelers on the canal can conveniently stop at the canal harbor in the city to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The ancient stone-walled city of Carcassonne rises majestically above the canal, astonishing visitors with its beautifully restored splendor. Unbelievably, the ancient town was in such disrepair in the mid-1800, France's government ordered it demolished. Restoration began after an uproar from the citizens of France stopped its planned destruction. Today, the double ringed walls and 52 turrets gracefully soar above the town.

Take a horse drawn carriage tour within the fortifications seeing the sites within the medieval city. Bike tours, self-guided walking tours, and guided visits of many of the historic sites are available.

Walk the narrow cobbled streets, exploring the museums and churches in both the walled city and the rest of the historic city across the Aude River. Summertime brings thousands of visitors for the fabulous firework display on July 14th and the month-long cultural festival featuring over 100 performances, many of them free. The climate is mild enough to enjoy the area during the Christmas holidays when the whole region is celebrating with lights and incredible food.

All along the Canal du Midi, open air markets in villages welcome the travelers. Savor the incredible aromas of fresh herbs, flowers and outdoor cooking. Stop and lunch on roasted chicken and herbed vegetables while sipping a glass of the region's famous wines. Traveling along the canal, notice the change in foods. Duck and goat cheeses change to sea food and shell fish as the canal nears the Mediterranean. Regional wines vary from the white Viognier to the red St Chinian, all a delicate accompaniment to an incredible meal.

Sites to not miss along the route include many medieval churches, chateaus and villages. The charming town of Narbonne is the site of the wonderful architectural gems, including the Archduke's Palace and cathedral. Once the capital of Roman Gaul, the Via Domitia, a 2,000 year old road passes through the area. Other examples of Roman architecture nearby include ancient storehouses and viaducts. The smells of delicious food greet the hungry at the famed indoor market in Narbonne.

Originally founded in 799, the historic Benedictine Lagrasse Abbey at one time was one of the most important in France. By the 18th century the abbey had faded in importance and part of it was sold to a private owner. Today, the remaining public portion is open for touring. Climb the bell tower, constructed in the 1500s, for a wonderful view of the village and surroundings. While in the village of Lagrasse be sure to see the lovely village center with its medieval streets, local craftsmen and interesting stone bridges.

The Cabrespine cave in the limestone rocks of the Black Mountains is a natural wonder, a cool retreat on a hot summer day. While enjoying nature, watch for wildlife along the canal. Eagles and vultures soar in the blue skies, while deer and even a wild boar might be spotted in the countryside. Carefully tended flower gardens, fields of sunflowers and ancient farmsteads of stone grace the landscape.

Feel the need to stretch your legs? The pace of barges is slow enough to walk along the towpath for an afternoon, delighting in the dappled sunshine shining through the leaves of the plane trees bordering the canal. Journeying through history along the canal, you'll build memories to last a lifetime.

This fabulous Canal du Midi information is brought to you by Barge Connection, experts in luxury barge travel since 1998.

THE BARGE CONNECTION is a leading tour operator in the United States specializing in barge vacations since 1998. Unparalleled experience in providing the best in luxury barge vacations for individuals, groups and travel agents, http://bargeconnection.com/.

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Enjoy a Historic Stirling Break in Scottish Castles to Rent

If you are looking for accommodation in a castle so that you can enjoy a truly memorable and luxurious getaway there is nowhere better than Scotland - and Stirling in particular.

Should you have selected Scottish castles for rent because of a desire to further explore this country's fascinating history, Stirling offers all you are looking for and plenty more besides.

With the chance to find out about some of the most iconic characters in the country's past while visiting a few of the most important buildings, this is truly a history buff's dream adventure.

Begin your tour at the National Wallace Monument, which overlooks the site of the Battle of Stirling Bridge. This striking stone structure commemorates the great Scottish hero William Wallace, who battled against England for his country's freedom.

This is a beautiful site to behold as you take a stroll around it and once inside you will be able to learn all about a man who is one of the country's most cherished sons.

Following on from this you could head to Bannockburn Heritage Centre, which is managed by the National Trust for Scotland.

Here you can hear all about another chapter in the country's bloody war for independence.

In 1314, the troops of Robert the Bruce met those of King Edward II to go to battle and the performance of the Scots helped to seal the nation's independence. Close to the Borestone - where Robert the Bruce took up his position during the fighting - you will find a heritage centre that can fill in any gaps in your knowledge.

Should you have chosen castles to hire in Scotland when selecting your accommodation then you could head next to Stirling Castle to compare notes.

This is one of the most popular attractions in and around the city and over the years it has played host to such famous visitors as William Wallace and Mary Queen of Scots.

A fascinating place to spend a day, here you can stroll around the gardens, explore the great hall and Chapel Royal or go to the Regimental Museum to learn more about the battles that have been fought in the area.

Back in the city itself you will find plenty more to keep you entertained, from great restaurants serving up traditional, local dishes, to an assortment of shops and boutiques where you can buy gifts and souvenirs.

And of course, don't forget to stop in at one of the pubs for a warming dram of whisky.

However, if you can't bear not to be somewhere historical, pop into the Stirling Old Town Jail. Here you can learn all about some of the city's less heroic former inhabitants and what it was like to be in prison during the Victorian period.

By the time you return to your holiday castle, you are certain to sleep soundly!

If you're looking for castles for hire in Scotland, come to Scotts Castle Holidays. We have a varied portfolio of holiday homes, including Scottish castles for rent to suit parties of all sizes. If you are looking for accommodation in a castle, visit us today.

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