Rodeo Drive Los Angeles Calif

Southern California winters are nothing short of nirvana. Once you get past the fact that Christmas lights hang atop palm trees instead of pine ones, the snow-less holidays can be quite enjoyable. There's no better way in L.A. to prep for the gift-giving season then to motor your convertible down to Rodeo Drive for some designer duds. This strip of luxury stores is iconic, gorgeous and as pricey as ever. Nearly every big-name designer has an outpost: Chanel, Fendi, Jimmy Choo, Prada, YSL … the list goes on. But can you put a price on living out your "Pretty Woman" fantasy? Yes you can, and the total comes to: astronomical credit card debt.In 1906, Burton E. Green and other investors purchased the property that would become Beverly Hills with plans for a mixed-use subdivision. In a nod to the region's heritage, they named their company the Rodeo Land and Water Company and the development's main street Rodeo Drive. The shopping district as presently constituted developed in the 1970s.

The business district, which extends from Wilshire Boulevard to Santa Monica Boulevard, is an exclusive shopping district, but also a major tourist attraction. The "Golden Triangle" business district which surrounds Rodeo Drive also includes those businesses on the streets that lie for a few blocks in either direction.Rodeo Drive /roʊˈdeɪ.oʊ/ of Beverly Hills, California is a four block stretch of road north of Wilshire Boulevard and south of S. Santa Monica Boulevard, known for its luxury-goods stores. The street is home to some of the region's most sought-after stores including Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Hermès, Burberry, and Coach. The neighboring streets like Wilshire, Dayton Way, and North Beverly Drive, also have many luxury stores and restaurants.Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills embodies all the glam of the big screen. Flagship locations for some of the most prestigious brands in the world are lined up, all polished and elegant!

Even if you aren't a shopper or if this doesn't fit your price range, there is so much to fill your vision - almost a museum or architectural experience. For you fashion and trend lovers - this is Paradise!Rodeo Drive, one of the most famous streets in the world for luxury shopping, is located less than a mile from Crowne Plaza Beverly Hills hotel. From fashionable boutiques to trendy restaurants to the occasional Hollywood celebrity sighting, Rodeo Drive offers more than high end shopping. Rodeo Drive is a classic attraction that belongs on any visitor's California itinerary.Experience the couture of the car industry at the annual Rodeo Drive Concours d' Elegance. This exclusive event is held on Father's Day weekend and features over 100 collector and one-of-a-kind automobiles on display throughout Rodeo Drive. The free event takes fashion to another level with its depiction of must-have "accessories" on wheels that complete any outfit.

Universal Orlando 3-Park Unlimited Ticket

With the Universal Orlando 3-Park Unlimited Ticket with Park-to-Park Access, you can come and go as much as you please between two amazing theme parks and one waterpark on all days during at fourteen (14) consecutive calendar day period!

Experience the pulse-pounding thrills of Universal’s Islands of Adventure®, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man™ and Jurassic Park River Adventure®. Take a starring role in some of the biggest movies and TV shows ever created at Universal Studios®, home of Shrek 4-D, Revenge of the Mummy® and the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit® coaster. At Wet 'n Wild® experience more themed, multi-person thrill rides than any other waterpark around. Enjoy the best in restaurants, nightclubs, shopping and movies at Universal CityWalk®.

Take an unforgettable journey through remarkable islands where all your favorite myths, legends, comic books, cartoons and children’s stories come to life. At Universal’s Islands of Adventure you’ll experience innovative rides and attractions that challenge all your senses, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™; The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man®, now in high-def 3-D; The Incredible Hulk Coaster®; the Jurassic Park River Adventure®; and The Cat in the Hat™. Universal Studios Florida Go beyond the screen and jump into the action of your favorite films at Universal Studios Florida®.

At the world’s premier movie and TV based theme park, you’ll find an amazing array of rides, shows, movie sets and attractions including the 3-D ride Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit multi-sensory coaster, Shrek 4-D, Revenge of the Mummy, The Simpsons Ride™, MEN IN BLACK™ Alien Attack™, Universal’s Superstar Parade, Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular–100 Years of Movie Memories nighttime show, and more.With the Universal Orlando 3-Park Unlimited Ticket with Park-to-Park Access, you can come and go as much as you please between two amazing theme parks and one water park on all days during at fourteen consecutive calendar day period!

Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Take an unforgettable journey through remarkable islands where all your favorite myths, legends, comic books, cartoons and children’s stories come to life. At Universal’s Islands of Adventure you’ll experience innovative rides and attractions that challenge all your senses, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™; The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man®, now in high-def 3-D; The Incredible Hulk Coaster®; the Jurassic Park River Adventure®; and The Cat in the Hat™.

Universal Studios Florida
Go beyond the screen and jump into the action of your favorite films at Universal Studios Florida®. At the world’s premier movie and TV based theme park, you’ll find an amazing array of rides, shows, movie sets and attractions including the 3-D ride Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit® multi-sensory coaster, Shrek 4-D, Revenge of the Mummy®, The Simpsons Ride™, MEN IN BLACK™ Alien Attack™, Universal’s Superstar Parade, Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular–100 Years of Movie Memories nighttime show, and more.

Wet’n Wild Orlando
Experience an explosion of pulsating lights, dynamic effects and cosmic energy on The Black Hole: The Next Generation, as your two-person hydra capsule blasts off to new out-of-this-world thrills! Encounter a splashing dose of group therapy on Brain Wash, or boogie down on the retro raft adventure – Disco H2O. Take a relaxing journey into Florida’s past through breathtaking waterfalls on the Lazy River, or get soaked down a ruptured pipeline on The Blast.

2-Day Miami South Beach Adventure from Orlando with Optional Dolphin Swim

On this 2-day Miami South Beach adventure, take a thrilling airboat tour through the Florida Everglades, enjoy free time to shop at Bayside Marketplace, and stay overnight in the heart of the Art Deco District, featuring a slew of restaurants, shops, museums, nightclubs and beaches at your fingertips. Upgrade to enjoy a dolphin swim with marine experts in Key Largo!

Day 1: Orlando -- Miami

After pickup from a select meeting point in Orlando, take a 4-hour drive to South Beach in Miami. Your first stop is the Florida Everglades, where you'll enjoy an exhilarating airboat ride through the lush wetlands with your guide. Your airboat ride is followed by a wild snake- and alligator-handling show, during which expert reptile handlers will offer interesting information about these creatures.

Next stop is Bayside Marketplace, a shopping complex where you'll have free time to peruse the numerous specialty and name-brand stores. This complex is also home to a variety of restaurants, live entertainment and sightseeing tour options, and offers breathtaking views of the Miami skyline.

You’ll then be taken to your hotel, located in the heart of South Beach's Art Deco District. It’s just seconds away from restaurants, shops, museums, nightclubs and the beach, so you'll always have something to do. The rest of the day and night is yours to spend as you please.

Overnight: Catalina Hotel and Beach Club or similar in South Beach

Day 2: Miami -- Orlando
On your second day, take a tour of the Art Deco District, dine at the Miami Beach Marina, visit the famous Lincoln Road outdoor mall, stroll along Ocean Drive, or take a dip in Nikki Beach (all activities at own expense). Your tour will depart from Miami around 3pm for arrival in Orlando at approximately 7pm.

Dolphin Swim Upgrade: For something new and exciting, upgrade to include a Dolphin Swim! Check out of your hotel early in the morning and head to Key Largo with your guide. You'll receive an informative briefing about dolphins by a marine expert before hopping in the water to rub the dolphins' bellies, do handshakes and other tricks, and even receive a dolphin kiss. After your 1.5-hour dolphin experience, you'll be taken back to South Beach for a few hours of free time before heading back to Orlando.

Learning to Ski in the Swiss Alps:Arosa Kulm

When I first visited Switzerland last year at the close of summer, I was amazed by the sea of colours that lay before me. The Alps seemed a world away in the distance, whilst the rolling hills in front of me were bursting with colour and summer freshness. The sky was a rich shade of blue, the air was clean, and I felt as if I was living in the Sound of Music film. Hah! No really. The last time I stayed at the Arosa Kulm Hotel in Switzerland looked like this:

Then, an entire year and a season later, I finally returned to Switzerland to experience the winter wonderland that is Arosa. It is little wonder Arosa is a favourite ski destination for families around Switzerland and visitors from abroad. It doesn’t have the snobbiness of some other (unnamed) ski resort towns, and isn’t so laid back that you can’t enjoy a friendly race down the slopes. All in all, Arosa is pretty close to skiing perfection for those that enjoy a low-key holiday with the five-star comforts of beautiful hotels like the Arosa Kulm to return home to at the end of the day.

Given that I had never skied before (in my entire life – shock horror at 23 years of age), I came to Arosa with one task in mind: learn to ski. Here’s how it went.As previously mentioned, this wasn’t my first stay at the Arosa Kulm, located at the foothills of the ski slopes. I had stayed here once before a year prior and had such a memorable stay that I was eager to get back in winter, and so I did.

For my three nights at the hotel I enjoyed a big buffet breakfast every morning, used all the hours of daylight to hit the slopes or adventure around the many hiking trails, and spent the evenings ordering quality in-room dining, floating around the indoor pool or melting away inside one of the sauna/steam rooms.

Hotel Villa Carlton: How Salzburg Stole my Heart

Every so often I find myself in a city or town that captivates me as much as it inspires me, intrigues me, and as such completely overwhelms me with all of this happening at once.

Cue Salzburg, one of Austria’s most charming cities that almost relies solely on tourism due to its old world charm, spectacular architecture, connection to the Sound of Music and for being the birthplace of the world’s most prolific composer, Wolfgang Mozart.With an introduction like that, its little wonder this charming small city captivates the great majority of its visitors.

So without further ado, here is how Salzburg stole my heart.It doesn’t take longer than a day to fall in love with Salzburg. A great place to start is also one of the settings for the world’s most known musical film, The Sound of Music. Inside the Mirabellgardens, visitors can marvel over the freshly cut green grass that dazzles with an array of colourful flowers – colours that change each year according to tradition.

From there, its just a short fifteen minute walk over one of the many pedestrian bridges to make your way over to the Old Town of Salzburg – a UNESCO World Heritage listed area that is both charming and hypnotic, all at once.Here inside the Old Town, be sure to visit a selection of the cities’ highlights, including: The Salzburg Dom Cathedral; Hohensalzburg Fortress; St. Peter’s Monastery; Mozart’s Birthplace on Getreidegasse; and wander around the many shops whilst there.

While just one day is enough to explore the walkable city of Salzburg, its a good idea to plan for more time to enjoy one of the day trips from the city. Whilst I would have loved to journey to Eagle’s Nest on a day trip from Salzburg or visit nearby lakeside town Hallstatt I was quite content taking the day tour from Salzburg to visit the sights and sounds of the Sound of Music tour.

The tour lasted for 4 hours in length and visited all the filming locations in the city itself, followed by locations just outside of Salzburg and finishing in the lakeside town of Mondsee.Back in the Old Town, there’s still plenty to see and do beyond the main tourist attractions that can be covered in a day. The city is so charming that it is quite easy to pass a few days here, sipping on an Aperol spritz in the summer time or a glühwein in the winter.

If you so happen to be in Salzburg during the winter seeking an authentic winter Christmas experience, you’re in luck. The city comes to life for the festive season with the world famous Christkindlmarkt and the surprisingly good Winterfest.Getting Here: Within Austria, Salzburg is well connected to Vienna by car and rail. Within Europe, Salzburg is easily accessible from Munich and Zurich, especially by rail. If you find yourself in nearby Cesky Krumlov , CK Shuttle offer a door-to-door shuttle service to Salzburg. If you’re flying in from outside of Europe, you may find it beneficial to fly internationally to Munich and catch the train to Salzburg.

Stay: WoW stayed at the four-star Hotel Villa Carlton, located next to the Mirabellgardens. Staying on this side of the Salzach river is a great way to save a few dollars and the Old Town is a mere 15 minute walk away.Eat: For Austrian cuisine with a modern twist, consider the popular Blaue Gans (blue goose) in the Old Town.

France Travel Guide Montpellier Travel Lyon Travel

Montpellier Travel Guide
City located slightly west of the famous south of France. In fact, Montpellier, a perfect fit for the holidays, it's half an hour away from the coastline with a full summer atmosphere. No handout rated from city crowds and cosmopolitan restructuring handicap, because a very small town. Nearly three hundred thousand of the population of close to ninety thousand students and a place to rest the soul of the people with this decent structure. Homes in the state ranked very stylish is tiny. Both sea air, and tranquility, as well as one of the rare cities that stand out the natural beauty of the dynamism that youth Montpeil floor. Cheap hotels and also with young people identified as fun places to blast you so dearly but also a great place Montpellier's gonna show.
Lyon Travel Guide
Located in the southwest of France in Lyon, a city that has a very special place in particular France. Where the majority of France's business district in Lyon, being the center of the silk trade in the world, as well as in the center of gastronomy in France. Exactly can be counted among one of the largest city of Lyon, France can not rate it as a metropolis. This is a big city, but also not exactly tear the unity with nature. In fact, you can come across in nature through the Swiss Alps to the Rhone River image.
Cannes Film Festival
Significantly hosting young people and immigrants in Lyon, the river and the bridge of Istanbul to satisfy people who love a place of beauty in France. Vieux neighborhood biri.mimari of the city's top attractions worth seeing, with its narrow streets and the atmosphere in Lyon a place where you live. Also contains many historical monuments and museums in the city. In this regard, the many tourists interested in cultural and artistic fields in France after Paris considered the second address. Lyon maintain that in spite of everything this peaceful atmosphere, historical architectural style of this city has the largest Renaissance area borçlu.fransa, vitality and dynamism of peace holds together. And all of them French culture, depth, offers historical measurements. Famous football team and lead many living in advance since

Moulin Rouge Show Paris Travel

Moulin Rouge Paris sells out months in advance. If you'd like to see the Moulin Rouge show "Féerie" (105 minutes), pre-book your 9pm or 11pm tickets (including champagne!) here. For 110 years, the most legendary French cabaret has welcomed millions of spectators who have come to admire the famous French Cancan. Book ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

Le Moulin Rouge is world famous thanks to its French Cancan, and immortalized by the painter Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. The sumptuous shows at the Moulin Rouge feature feathers, rhinestones and sequins, fabulous settings, original music and of course... the most beautiful girls in the world.

Many international stars have performed on stage at the Moulin Rouge including Ella Fitzgerald, Liza Minnelli, Frank Sinatra and Elton John. They have all put on exceptional shows, following in the footsteps of French celebrities such as Maurice Chevalier, Jean Gabin, Edith Piaf and Yves Montand.

Moulin Rouge Paris sells out every night. By pre-booking tickets you'll lock in the price, secure seats and get the most out of your precious vacation time in Paris.

The Moulin Rouge is the number one show in Paris, if not the whole of Europe. No wonder it sells out quickly! Don't miss your chance to see the world-renowned showgirls and French Cancan dancers strut their stuff on the Moulin Rouge's historic stage. 
Inclusions:
Moulin Rouge Ticket
Half bottle of Champagne
3-course dinner (if option selected)
Exclusions:
Gratuities (optional)
Food and drinks, unless specified
Hotel pickup and drop off
Additional Information:
It is strictly forbidden to photograph, film and record the show.
Elegant attire is required (tie and jacket not necessary) no shorts, no short-pants, no sport shoes or sportswear.
Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
Vegetarian option is available. Select the Toulouse-Lautrec Menu.
Due to its popularity, you should expect to wait in line at the Moulin Rouge before gaining access. The Moulin Rouge does not grant priority access to anyone. The seats are allocated 1 hour before performance time.
Moulin Rouge show is not recommended for children under 16
Itinerary:
The Moulin Rouge's new show, "Féerie", has been created by Doris Haug and Ruggero Angeletti, who, since 1961, have been the directors of the most famous shows in the world.

Choreographed by Bill Goodson, Féerie consists of : a troupe of 100 artists, including the 60 Doriss Girls that were recruited world-wide; 1000 costumes of feathers, rhinestones and sequins, designed by Corrado Collabucci, and set up in the most famous Parisian workshops (for example, 500 pairs of custom-made shoes of the size 36 to 47, ...); sumptuous settings with shining colors and unique designs created by Gaetano Castelli and made by Italian artists; the best international and outstanding acts; and the expected return of the giant Aquarium.. all of that with music by Pierre Porte, using some 80 musicians and 60 members of the chorus.

"Féerie"; 4 main scenes created to fulfill international audiences' dreams!

"The Moulin Rouge today and yesterday, the Moulin Rouge forever"
The theatre lights switch off, the curtain is raised and the entire troupe appears on stage, under the admiring gaze of the audience who find themselves entering the Garden of the Moulin Rouge to discover the magical atmosphere of the place. A touch of nostalgia!

"Sandokan"
What kind of adventures can happen to a pirate whose boat is anchored in Indonesia? Dreams? A perfect woman's love? Once in the land, one meets priestesses, or a Gorgon in her temple surrounded by snakes, women jewels, tigresses...

Will Sandokan have the opportunity to offer his treasures to the lady of his dreams or will we be witnesses to a sacrifice of love?

"The Circus"
The circus comes to town with its band of clowns, Siamese twins, pierrots, acrobats, jugglers, weird wild animals and six miniature horses! A colorful scene with beautiful music which ends with the great parade of the Doriss Girls and Doriss Dancers.

"The Moulin Rouge from 1900 to ..."
The Moulin Rouge pays a tribute to Parisian women throughout the years: on the 14th of July, for the Liberation of Paris.. with Java or Boogie music. Time passes and leaves space for new generations of women, more beautiful and free than ever!

At the highlight of this tribute, the Doriss Girls dance the world famous French Cancan!

Moulin Rouge Dinner Menu Options:
Subject to change at any time without notice.

MISTINGUETT MENU:
Terrine of duck foie gras Montmartre with fruit chutney OR Mistinguett king prawns with smoked spices, vegetable vartar, vinaigrette with herbs
Sauteed corn-fed Chicken Supreme, morel cream and fresh pasta OR Cabaret baked salmon fillet, french white butter, boiled potatoes and grape Tomatoes on the Vine
Tendresse of red berries, fruity marshmallows and raspberry sauce OR Gourmandise of three chocolates Echiquier pastry and crispy chocolate pearls
TOULOUSE LAUTREC MENU:
Festival of Norwegian smoked salmon, Tarama, Trout Roe and Avruga, grilled toast OR Stuffed dover sole, tangy cream and young shoots in salad
Steamed gilt head sea bream, Champagne sauce, creamed potatoes OR Valentin” Sauté of Veal, white Supreme sauce, Pilaf rice and small white onions
Moulin Rouge Opera pastry, chocolate wings, chocolate hazelnut sauce OR Tendresse of red berries, fruity marshmallows and raspberry sauce
BELLE EPOQUE MENU:
Mise en Bouche
Duck foie gras with sea salt, mango vinaigrette, “Roquette” salad and grilled toast OR Lobster thin Pie à la Parisienne, crushed tomato and lobster chiboust cream, herbs salad
Fried sea bass fillet, creamy risotto with wood mushrooms, Meadow mushroom cream OR Sirloin steak, small fried potatoes with thyme, French Beans with fresh butter, pepper sauce
Saint Honoré with raspberries, light whipped cream, crunchy caramel pastry
Moulin Rouge Opera pastry, chocolate wings, chocolate hazelnut sauce OR Gourmandise of three chocolates Echiquier pastry and crispy chocolate pearls
4-COURSE CHRISTMAS MENU:
Selected dates: December 20 - January 05, excluding December 31.   

Kir royal
Sea scallops tartar in pumpkin cappuccino
Duck foie gras with sea salt in Christmas-spiced chutney
Christmas poultry with chesnut stuffing, fricassée of wild mushrooms and potato purée with butter
 "Moulin Rouge" opera pastry, chocolate wings, chocolate hazelnut sauce. On 24 and 25 December: Bûche de Noël Dalloyau (Traditional Yule-Log Cake from Maison Dalloyau)
 Half a bottle of G.H.Mumm Champagne per couple

5-COURSE NEW YEAR'S EVE MENU:
Selected dates: December 31

Light pastry medly
Petrovskaya Royal Caviar, small blinis and Isigny double cream
Baked sea scallops casserole
Scampi bisque, potato mousseline with butter
Pear and mandarin orange sorbet with a taste of Indian Bergamot and iced vodka
Fillet of beef with pan-fried foie gras, crispy agata potatoes, golden vegetables and a rich jus
"Moulin Rouge Velvet Fruits"; Raspberry delight, vanilla cream with orange, calisson biscuit with almonds, raspberry sauce and Champagne sorbet
Chocolates and macaroons from Maison Dalloyau
Champagne Perrier-Jouët Cuvée Belle Epoque Rosé OR Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande 2004, 2eme Grand Cru Classé Bordeaux
Soft drinks, mineral water and coffee during the evening
Voucher Info:
You must present a paper voucher for this tour. We will email a link to access and print your voucher at the Lead Travelers email address. What's this?

Local Operator Information:
Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

Thailand 'most Popular' for gap Years

Thousands of students opened their A-Level results yesterday, and Abta, the travel association, estimates that around 24,000 of them will spend much or all of the next 12 months overseas.
It reported that Thailand was proving to be the most popular choice among school leavers, followed by Australia, the US and South Africa.
Other favourites were Peru, popular with those hoping to tackle the Inca Trail; Vietnam, home to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ha Long Bay, Hoi An and Mỹ Son; and Brazil, famous for beaches, jungle treks, and sprawling cities. India, New Zealand, and Fiji completed the top ten.
Abta suggested that rising tuition fees had encouraged more young Britons to take a gap year, adding that several of its members had reported a rise in bookings compared to last year.
Victoria Bacon, head of communications at Abta, said: “Gap years have become even more popular among British teenagers since the rise in tuition fees in 2012 and increased competition for graduate jobs, with many students now looking to travel experiences to help make their gap year stand out on the CV.

“There is now an incredible choice of activities and destinations to support young travellers in developing and learning new skills,” she added. “It’s very important that if you’re planning a gap year, you research your options thoroughly: talk to a travel professional, who will be able to offer you advice about destinations and experiences; check travel advice with Abta and the Foreign Office and always book with a reputable company.”
To help those students considering a year out, Telegraph Travel has compiled its annual Gap 100, featuring our pick of the most trustworthy gap year travel companies and websites.
We’ve also published a list of ten essential questions to ask when organising your trip, and several case studies from recently returned gap year travellers (see below).
Telegraph Travel’s gap year coverage
The gap year 100
Browse our annual directory of the best gap year travel companies, whether you're looking to learn a skill or language, volunteer, work, or simply embark on a great adventure.
Essential questions
What questions should someone planning a gap year ask before committing to a project?
How voluntourism changed my life
Wycliffe Sande, born into poverty in Uganda and orphaned at 13, explains how a volunteering project transformed his fortunes.
Gap year case study: learning a language
Felix Legge relives his experiences of learning Russian in Moscow.
Gap year case study: on the anti-poaching patrol
William Oborne describes working with rangers in Zimbabwe as part of a programme to protect rhinos from poachers.
Gap year case study: a sponsored career break
Alex Ball talks about taking a sponsored career break that saw him visiting various companies while travelling around America.
Gap year case study: training to be a ski instructor
Jenny Beard discusses her time training to be a ski instructor in the French Alps, and teaching skiing in Japan.
Gap year case study: volunteering in Uganda
Oli Denton describes his time volunteering and playing rugby in Uganda for the Lessons for Life Foundation.

Emirates Palace celebrates Eid at Ramadan Pavilion

The month long celebration of Ramadan has come to a close in the Middle East, with Emirates Palace welcoming guests to an Eid ceremony at a specially constructed pavilion to mark the occasion.The custom built pavilion sits on hundreds of square metres of ground, overlooking the beach on one side and stunning façade of the hotel on the other, and incorporated the existing 12- metre-high palm trees and grand fountain of the palace terrace.Thousands of guests visited during the holy month, with hundreds more enjoying the spectacle during Eid.Emirates Palace, the icon of Emirati hospitality in the UAE, this year partnered with the National Bank of Abu Dhabi and Wahat Al Zawiya to create a special Ramadan experience for residents and guests.

Alexander Schneider, Emirates Palace hotel manager said: “After providing a limited Ramadan experience in 2012, Emirates Palace decided this year to create an out-of-this-world venue for residents and guests that truly reflects the legendary Emirati hospitality.”The elegant design of the Ramadan pavilion incorporated the signature gold and traditional Mashribiya details of Emirates Palace in a light and airy space.Comfortable seating spread throughout the pavilion created cosy enclaves to enjoy time with friends and family throughout the holy month.

Built as an iconic landmark showcasing Arabian culture and hospitality at its finest, Emirates Palace, managed by Kempinski, has created an enviable niche in luxury hospitality, welcoming world leaders, celebrities, global business travellers and leisure guests with a truly memorable and unique experience, luxurious contemporary facilities and amenities in comfortable and traditional Arabian surroundings with personalized world class service.

Situated on a 1.3 km stretch of private white pristine beach and on 100 hectares of manicured lawns and lush landscaped gardens, Emirates Palace comprises 394 luxury rooms and suites and a variety of award winning dining options.The resort’s leisure facilities include two intricately landscaped swimming pools one to refresh and relax and one perfectly designed for adventure and family fun, an Anantara spa, tennis courts, and a state of the art fitness centre.

Cathal O’Connell chief executive bmi regional

When British Midland International was finally subsumed into International Airlines Group, owners of British Airways, in 2012 it was by no means clear that offshoot bmi regional would be able to make it on its own. Yet a little over a year later the airline has established itself as a niche carrier, offering scheduled passenger services across the UK and Europe. As chief executive Cathal O’Connell explains to Breaking Travel News: “The hardest task we faced at the offset was telling people we still exist. With International Airlines Group taking over bmi, there is a misconception bmi regional is no longer in operation. However, this is obviously not the case.” Perhaps airline passengers could be forgiven for their mistake. bmi baby, a smaller subsidiary in the BMI stable, could not be saved and was closed down on September 10th 2012. In contrast, canny management and investment from Sector Aviation Holdings, a private company operated by the Bond Family behind Bond Offshore Helicopters, saved the larger bmi regional. A new airline was born, with new management, a new owner and a significantly increased network; up from 11 to 23 routes in summer 2013. But it was not easy, with bmi regional having to undergo a period of incubation while BMI was incorporated into International Airlines Group.

 The entire infrastructure that was used – offices, IT services, call centres, and everything else that was needed to run an airline – was provided by BMI. Following the sale, bmi regional had to rebuild all of these facilities, which is what the airline worked on for the first six months after its move until its re-launch as a standalone company in October last year. “We needed to identify what systems we needed, who we could acquire those systems from, and what staff we would need in order to make those systems run effectively. “Over time we developed a completely new infrastructure,” continues O’Connell. “We now have a new headquarters at East Midlands Airport, while operations and engineering remains in Aberdeen; having created 100 jobs over the past year, in addition to saving 300 which were on the block following the sale to IAG.” What emerged is now a materially different operation from the one that was acquired a year ago.

 This summer bmi regional operates 450 flights a week to eight countries, flying 18 aircraft - all Embraer 145 or Embraer 135 jets – and operating out of a series of regional bases, at Aberdeen, Edinburgh, East Midlands Airport and Bristol. Routes are also now focused on point-to-point services after being recalibrated away from feeder traffic needed for the former BMI parent. “The hangover from the bmi Group meant bmi regional was offering flights to Star Alliance hubs, including Frankfurt, Brussels and Copenhagen, which no longer made economic sense to the new carrier,” adds O’Connell. “All of our European routes were operating as feeder routes to Star Alliance members.

 “When we left Star Alliance the economics, not to mention the need, for these routes, disappeared.” So where to fly now? “We asked ourselves, now have these aircraft what can we do with them that makes more sense than what they are doing now?” continued O’Connell. “We recognised the aircraft we had were suited to very high frequency routes, so we looked at various markets and established those which were underserved. “We were looking for those which initially had a strong business demand, those with major companies which require the links bmi regional could provide. “We then examined the leisure opportunity on the same route, and where these two combined we considered a route; a whole range of opportunities.” A good example would be Airbus, which has a major facility in Bristol, which requires connections to Hamburg and its facilities there. Both Bristol and Hamburg are also established tourist destinations, making it a viable route for bmi regional. The carrier also has a fairly significant, and growing, non-scheduled service carrying VIPs, music groups, and sports teams to destinations around the country. But O’Connell is also quick to point out this is now low-cost carrier cherry picking routes.

 “We offer both business and economy fares – all catering onboard is free, as well as baggage carriage – the airline remains a full service carrier. “We offer the services flag-carriers offered a few years ago, and in many cases services people have forgotten about. “We aim to take the hassle out of travel,” he explains. bmi regional also owns the rights to the BMI brand, and could revert to that name, but this is not on the agenda at present. Growth instead is coming from new routes and improvements to the onboard offering. bmi regional is working on healthy options for onboard eating for example, maximising the experience for passengers. “We have also put in place a marketing campaign which tells people, yes, we do still exist,” jokes O’Connell. “We have also changed perceptions. Yes, we are a business airline, but we also offer leisure services.

 “We have more new routes in the pipeline, not just departing from the UK, but also within Europe. “We now fly into the major airports, but less for connections – our passengers now tend to be flying to their destinations, rather than toward an onward flight. “That said, looking at codeshare agreements with global carriers to offer more opportunity to our passengers. “This is good for us, and for them, offering regional airports to international passengers.” Just a year in bmi regional has established itself as a viable carrier, no mean feat in troubling times. With competition getting tighter all the time it might be a bumpy ride yet, but the carrier is certainly pointed in the right direction.

Giverny and Versailles Small Group Day Trip from Paris

After picking you up at the doorstep of your downtown hotel in Paris, our guide will take you for a wonderful day outside of Paris.This day will lead you first to the edge of Normandy, where you will visit Claude Monet's home, the "Father of Impressionism". There you will discover the famous gardens created by the impressionist painter, and the well known Japanese bridge in the midst of its flowered paths and wather-lily ponds.

"Claude Monet's property at Giverny, left by his son to the Académie des Beaux-arts in 1966, has, after completion of large scale restoration work, become the Claude Monet Foundation, inaugurated in 1980. The house, with its pink crushed brick façade, where the leader of the Impressionist School lived from 1883 to 1926, once again has its colourful décor and intimate charin of former times. The precious collection of Japanese engravings is displayed in several rooms, hung in the marmer chosen by the master of Giverny himself.
The huge Nymphéas studio, a stone's throw from the house, has also been restored. It contains the Foundation's Shop. The gardens have been replanted as they once were and offer for the admiration of visitors the "painting from nature" which Claude Monet's contemporaries considered one of his masterpieces. The rectangular Clos Normand, with archways of climbing plants entwined around brilliantly coloured shrubs, lies before the house and studios, offering from Spring to Autumn the palette of varying colours to the painter-gardner who was "ecstatic about flowers". Lastly, the Water Garden, formed by a tributary of the Epte, lies further away, shaded by weeping willows. With its famous Japanese Bridge, its wistarias, azaleas and its pond, it has once more become that casket of sky and water which inspired the pictorial universe of the water lilies."

You will have lunch at the lovely "Moulin de Fourges" restaurant, a 200-year-old mill. The architecture of this listed site, dating back to the 18th century, draws its inspiration from the hamlet of Marie-Antoinette at Versailles. It offers a unique setting with its rural grounds and its spacious terrace on the banks of the Epte.

In the afternoon, you will be driven to Versailles Palace, residence of the Sun King, Louis XIV. There, you will visit on your own Louis XIV's suite, the Hall of Mirrors... An audio guide (included) is available in eight languages (French, English, German, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, Russian and Chinese-Mandarin). You will also have some remaining time to discover the famous "A la Francaise" gardens.

LARGEST yachts with library and marble Jacuzzi on sale for $53 MILLION

A SUPER YACHT boasting a library and a marble jacuzzi has gone on the market for a whopping $53 million (£43.3 million).
Athena is believed to be the fourth largest sailing yacht in the world - and currently the only one in this size range up for sale.

The three-storey, 295ft long vessel was built in 2004 at the Royal Huisman Shipyard in the Netherlands.

In 2011 it underwent a revamp and is now being sold by boat dealer Burgess.
It is ideal for yachting enthusiasts and can sleep up to 10 people in the five cabins, one of which is a master suite.

The master suite has its own study, walk-in-wardrobe and Jacuzzi.

The yacht can also house 21 members of staff.

Guests can enjoy sunbathing on the outdoor lounges and working out in the onboard gym.

Across this luxurious ship's three levels there are a variety of saloons.

The world's largest cruise ship, which is almost 165 feet longer than the Eiffel Tower, has set off on its first sea trial from France. Harmony of the Seas, which cost almost £800million to build and weighs 227,000 tonnes.These include a bridge deck, media room and a large main saloon that leads to a stunning dining room.

There is also another table on the vast deck so everyone can enjoy a spot of al fresco dining.

Plus there's another study area with floor to ceiling bookshelves and plenty of storage space.

This impressive yacht has been decked out in lavish mahogany wood and teak and finished with fine furnishings. Athena also boasts impressive technology with its Panamax masts rigged with 2,500 square metres of sail power. And the hydraulically hoisted crow’s nest, which sits at 190ft high, offers panoramic views.

Its twin 3156B Caterpillar engine means this boat can cruise at a range of 4,000 nautical miles at 10 knots. Although this vessel is currently sitting in the Caribbean sporting a Cayman Islands flay, it must be sold offshore and out of US waters. The story comes after a new capsule hotel could see visitors waking up on a desert island.

http://www.express.co.uk/travel/articles/776268/yacht-worlds-largest-for-sale

USA Travel Guide - New York City Expert Picks for your Vacation

From Wall Street's skyscrapers to the neon of Times Square to Central Park's leafy paths, New York City pulses with an irrepressible energy. History meets hipness in this global center of entertainment, fashion, media, and finance.

World-class museums like MoMA and unforgettable icons like the Statue of Liberty beckon, but discovering the subtler strains of New York's vast ambition is equally rewarding: ethnic enclaves and shops, historic streets of dignified brownstones, and trendy bars and eateries all add to the urban buzz.

NEW YORK CITY RESTAURANTS

Ready to take a bite out of New York? Hope you've come hungry. In a city where creativity is expressed in innumerable ways, the food scene takes center stage, with literally thousands of chances to taste what Gotham is all about. Whether lining up at street stands, gobbling down legendary deli and diner grub, or chasing a coveted reservation at the latest celebrity-chef venue.

PLAN YOUR NEW YORK CITY VACATION

From Wall Street's skyscrapers to the neon of Times Square to Central Park's leafy paths, New York City pulses with an irrepressible energy. History meets hipness in this global center of entertainment, fashion, media, and finance.

World-class museums like MoMA and unforgettable icons like the Statue of Liberty beckon, but discovering the subtler strains of New York's vast ambition is equally rewarding: ethnic enclaves and shops, historic streets of dignified brownstones, and trendy bars and eateries all add to the urban buzz.

Source: http://www.fodors.com/world/north-america/usa/new-york/new-york-city

People Peace Planet Conference Costa Rica San Jose 2010

It may be a "developing" country (although I never liked the term), but did you know that Costa Rica developed the concept of carbon credits?! Pretty innovative for such a small country with such limited financial resources! Costa Rica continues to be an innovative leader in the area of sustainable tourism and ecotourism. The title of the Second International Conference hosted in San Jose, Costa Rica earlier this month says it all! Planet, People, Peace...

For the second time, CANAECO the Ecotourism Chamber of Costa Rica, hosted the International Conference: Planet, People, Peace from November 1 to 3, 2010 in San Jos?, Costa Rica. In efforts to promote the country's model of sustainable tourism and learn from experts around the world, the Conference attracted speakers from:

Kenya, such as Joseph Ole Shuel, the Director of II N'gwesi Masai Community Lodge,
USA, such as Alex Major, the Founder and Executive Director of the Green Flight Foundation; and Erika Harms, the Senior Advisor on Tourism at the United Nations Foundation,
Canada, such as Deidre Campbell, the CEO of the Tartan Group,
England, such as Richard Denman, the Certification expert appointed for the World Ecotourism Summit by the World Tourism Organization and UNEP,
Guatemala, such as Oscar Cac from the AK Tenamit Indigenous Community development Organization,
...and oh so many more!
Others, like Hitesh Mehta (a landscape architect and world designer of ecolodges), were effectively mingling with unsuspecting participants, attending companies, organizations, and professionals, who may be unaware of the "star factor" that they may discover in stopping to chat or sharing a meal. That was the wonderful aspect of this conference! Networking with international experts, indigenous community members, and business professionals was never so effortless and real. I mean you could really share your passion and talk about real issues... maybe because the Costa Rican culture provided the perfect backdrop of friendly atmosphere to an otherwise professional event. Where else do you see professionals kiss and hug when accepting a gift on the stage?!

The format and organization of the conference encouraged an active participation and exploration, including the option of translation for English speakers like myself. Guest speakers and discussion panels on the stage were joined by interesting inquires and comments from the floor, while the stands outside of the conference room continually generated a buzz of excitement.

Coming out of this significant event and having made so many wonderful and important connections, I realised on a deeper level the achievement in sustainable tourism by this little brave country. Costa Rica has been both a pioneer and an innovator and this is why it is recognized by the world as the leader in sustainable tourism. This important intrinsic aspect is ingrained in the country's culture, government and policies, and eagerly embraced by businesses that love and cherish their little piece of paradise and the pure life (pura vida) that it offers. This is very smart of Costa Rica, because tourists continue to increase their concern about the natural environment and they are consistently choosing tourist destinations using these models of sustainability. As a result, the conference reinforced the innovative Costa Rican model, creating a responsible destination where tourists can contribute to solutions and sustainable tourism.

The next step for Costa Rica? The country may be reinventing itself yet again by changing the seal from Sustainable Tourism to Carbon Neutral, thanks to the Costa Rican national airline Nature Air, the only fully sustainable airline, among others. And perhaps in the near future the country will even become "carbon negative" - another first for Costa Rica!

Source: http://mynatour.org/econews/planet-people-peace-conference-ii-costa-rica-san-jose-2010

Bolivia Travel Guide Expert Picks for your Bolivia Vacation

Bolivia began at the 1994 World Cup, watching the nation make its historic first appearance. Like all relationships, we’ve had our ups and downs – I experienced every level of emotion living in La Paz from 1999 to 2000, riding the turbulent wonder of everyday life. Bolivia wouldn’t let me go: I love its birds (the ones that fly), I love its food, and I love the endearing and easily.Rough around the edges, superlative in its natural beauty, rugged, vexing, complex and slightly nerve-racking, Bolivia is one of South America’s most diverse and perplexing nations.

Nature
Bolivia is so new to scientific endeavor that unique species are being discovered to this day. Tiptoe into caves of tube-lipped nectar bats, their 3in tongues probing the darkness. Tread lightly on the terrain of the poisonous annellated coral snake, deadly in look and effect. Listen for the cackling call-and-response of a dozen different macaw species (among the 1000 bird species) including the world’s rarest, the bluebeard, which only lives here. Multihued, brilliant butterflies and moths flit at your feet in the jungle; lithe alpacas and vicuñas stand out in the stark altiplano.

Adventure
Bolivia is not for the faint of heart: rattling down the World’s Most Dangerous Road into sultry Yungas; soaring breathless above verdant La Paz valleys in a paraglider; pulling a catfish that outweighs you out of an Amazon river (and maybe cooking it for dinner!). Whether your tools are crampons and ice-axe for scaling 6000m Andean peaks or a helmet and bravado for jumping into the abyss on a glider, Bolivia’s rocks, rivers, and ravines will challenge – nay, provoke – you into pushing your own personal limits.

Culture
Bolivians love a parade, and hardly a month passes without a procession of brightly costumed celebrants honoring an important historical date or deity. You’ll hear them from blocks away before the brass bands and whirligigging dancers approach and then envelop you (you may even get to join in). Amateur archaeologists can delve into a rich, multilayered treasure trove of artefacts – Bolivia has South America’s largest percentage of indigenous people, so the culture is still alive and well on the streets, too. Get to know them better by participating in community-based tourism and hiring local guides when you can.

Food and Drink
Ever had a llama tenderloin? Here’s your chance: maybe with a glass of up-and-coming Tarija wine, or artisanal coca or quinoa-based beer. The daily bread varies from the Frisbee-like mama qonqachi cheese bread of Cochabamba, big as your head, to the sourdough-like maraqueta hard roll, staple of paceña breakfast, to Santa Cruz’s mouthwatering cunapes (cheese bread balls). Vegetarians can feast on sonsos, the yucca-and-cheese pancake of the camba, and savor tropical fruit juices like maracuya (passionfruit) and chirimoya (custard apple). Fresh Amazon surubí tastes like it leaped onto your plate. Yungas coffee and chuquisaceña (Sucre) chocolate complete a perfect postre (dessert).

Why I Love Bolivia
My two-decade love affair with Bolivia began at the 1994 World Cup, watching the nation make its historic first appearance. Like all relationships, we’ve had our ups and downs – I experienced every level of emotion living in La Paz from 1999 to 2000, riding the turbulent wonder of everyday life. Bolivia wouldn’t let me go: I love its birds (the ones that fly), I love its food, and I love the endearing and easily understood Spanish and the charming folk who speak it. On holiday, your possibilities are nearly limitless. I keep my charango tuned, because I know I’ll be back.


Known as the Tibet of the Americas, Bolivia is a relatively remote bolthole, being one of only two landlocked countries in South America (the other is Paraguay). Wander along Calle Jaén, in Bolivia's administrative capital, La Paz, for a slice of South American life under Spanish colonial control - the street is home to some of the city's best preserved colonial buildings, whitewashed façades and ornate black grilled balconettes. It's also where you'll find a cluster of museums, including the former home of Pedro Domingo Murillo, who lead forces during the La Paz Revolution of 1809. See them all for the grand total of 40p and pick up your bumper bargain ticket from the Museo Costumbrista, which houses a ceramic depicting the hanging of the aforementioned revolutionary.

As if that weren’t enough (there's more to life than museums?!) Bolivia perhaps boasts the best value food and drink in all of South America. For example, a bottle of Paceña beer generally costs less than £1 and a bowl of chairo (potato soup) about the same. Pack plenty of layers for when the sun goes down; although Bolivia generally endures hot and humid tropical summers, La Paz is surrounded by the altipano mountains and so stays cool all year round. Looking to turn up the heat? Head to Oruro, a city in the heart of the altiplano famous for its Carnival, held each year in February or March to honour the Virgin of Candelaria. Three hours by bus from La Paz and you could be taking part in this UNESCO protected presentation of indigenous and religious Bolivian culture, with more than 48 folk dance performances and a traditional parade.

Stretching from the majestic icebound peaks and bleak high-altitude deserts of the Andes to the exuberant rainforests and vast savannahs of the Amazon basin, Bolivia embraces an astonishing range of landscapes and climates. This mystical terrain boasts scores of breathtaking attractions including stark otherworldly salt pans, ancient Inca trails and towering volcanic peaks. Landlocked at the remote heart of South America, Bolivia rewards the adventurous travellers and encompasses everything that outsiders find most exotic and mysterious about the continent.

The country’s cultural diversity and ethnic make-up are equally fascinating. Three centuries of colonial rule have left their mark on the nation’s language, religion and architecture, but this is essentially little more than a veneer overlying indigenous cultural traditions that stretch back long before the arrival of the Spanish. Though superficially embracing the Catholic religion, many Bolivians are equally at home making offerings to the mountain gods or performing other strange rites, such as blessing vehicles with libations of alcohol. And although Spanish is the language of government and business, the streets buzz with the cadences of Aymara, Quechua and more than thirty other indigenous languages.

Geographically, Bolivia is dominated by the Andes, which march through the west in two parallel chains, each studded with snowcapped peaks; between them stretch the barren, windswept expanses of the Altiplano. Reached via a series of lush valleys, the country’s lowlands range from dense Amazonian rainforest to vast plains of dry thornbrush and scrub. The geographical extremes are fascinating to explore, but can take their toll on travellers. This varied topography supports an extraordinary diversity of flora and fauna from condors to pink freshwater dolphins– Parque Nacional Amboró, for example, has over 830 species of bird, more than the US and Canada combined. The country’s underdevelopment has in some ways been a blessing for the environment, allowing vast wilderness areas to survive in a near-pristine condition.

Though it covers an area the size of France and Spain combined, Bolivia is home to just under ten million people, who are concentrated in a handful of cities founded by the Spanish. Some of these, such as Potosí and Sucre, were once amongst the most important settlements in the Americas, but are now half-forgotten backwaters, basking in the memory of past glories and graced by some of the continent’s finest colonial architecture. Others, like La Paz and Santa Cruz, have grown enormously, and are now bustling commercial centres.

Despite these attractions, Bolivia remains one of South America’s least-visited countries. Some blame Queen Victoria, who after a diplomatic incident is said to have crossed the name from a map and declared that “Bolivia does not exist”. Among those who have heard a little about Bolivia, meanwhile, it has a reputation for cocaine trafficking and political instability. These clichéd images have some basis in reality, though the 2006 election of Evo Morales has reduced the instability to a certain extent, and Bolivia remains one of the continent’s safest countries for travellers. And for those who make it here, the fact that Bolivia – one of the continent’s least expensive countries – is still not yet on the major tourist routes means you’re unlikely to find yourself sharing the experience with hordes of other foreign visitors.

SOURCE: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/bolivia/introduction

Cambodia Travel Guide Cambodia Travel Places to visit in Cambodia

It is important to remember that Cambodian history did not begin with the Khmer Rouge. Pol Pot's incredibly harsh regime has garnered the most attention, but the Cambodians have enjoyed a long and often triumphant history.

Anybody who witnesses the magnificent temples at Angkor can attest to the fact that the Khmer Empire was once wealthy, militarized, and a major force in the region. Its zenith came under Jayavarman VII (1181-ca. 1218), where the Empire made significant territorial gains from the Cham. The Khmer Empire stretched to encompass parts of modern day Thailand, Malaysia, Burma, Laos and Vietnam.


The period following the fall of the Khmer Empire has been described as Cambodia's dark ages. Climatic factors precipitated this fall, where the Ankorian civilization harnessed Cambodia's water for agriculture through elaborate systems of canals and dams. The Khmer Empire never recovered from the sacking by its neighbors based in Ayutthaya (in modern day Thailand), and Cambodia spent much of the next 400 years (until French colonization) squeezed and threatened by the rivalries of the expanding Siamese and Vietnamese Empires to the West and East. Indeed, on the eve of French colonization it was claimed that Cambodia was likely set to cease to exist as an independent kingdom entirely, with the historian John Tully claiming “there can be little doubt that their [the French] intervention prevented the political disappearance of the kingdom”.

The French came to dominate Cambodia as a protectorate from the 1860s, part of a wider ambition to control the area then termed Indochina (modern day Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos). The French were always more concerned with their possessions in Vietnam. Education of Cambodians was neglected for all but the established elite. It was from this elite that many "Red Khmers" would emerge. Japan's hold on Southeast Asia during the Second World War undermined French prestige and, following the Allied victory, Prince Sihanouk soon declared independence. This was a relatively peaceful transition as France was too absorbed with its struggle in Vietnam, which it saw as more important to its conception of L'Indochine francaise.

Prince Sihanouk was the main power figure in the country after this. He was noted for making very strange movies in which he starred, wrote and directed. His rule was characterized at this point with a Buddhist revival and an emphasis on education. This, however, was a mixed blessing. He succeeded in helping create an educated elite who became increasingly disenchanted with the lack of jobs available. As the economic situation in Cambodia deteriorated, many of these young people were attracted to the Indochinese Communist Party, and later the Khmer Rouge.

As the Second Indochina War spread to Cambodia's border (an important part of the "Ho Chi Minh trail"), the USA became increasingly concerned with events in the country. The US Air Force bombed Cambodia from 1964 to 1973. During this campaign, which was initially codenamed Operation Menu, 540,000 tonnes of bombs were dropped. Estimates of the death toll range from 40,000 to 150,000. Most of the bombing was done in support of Khmer Republic military forces fighting the Khmer Rouge and North Vietnam. In total, the US dropped 2.7 million tonnes of bombs on Cambodia from 1964 to 1973, more than the combined amount dropped by all the Allies in all theatres during World War II.

In March 1970, while overseas to visit Moscow and Beijing, Sihanouk was overthrown by Lon Nol and other generals who were looked upon favorably by the United States. Sihanouk then put his support behind the Khmer Rouge. This change influenced many to follow suit; he was, after all, considered a Boddhisatva. Meanwhile the Khmer Rouge followed the Vietnamese example and began to engender themselves to the rural poor. Between 200,000 and 300,000 people died in the civil war including the United States air campaigns.

Following a five-year struggle, Communist Khmer Rouge forces captured Phnom Penh in 1975 and ordered the evacuation of all cities and towns. Over one million people (and possibly many more) died from execution or enforced hardships. Those from the cities were known as "new" people and suffered the most at first. The rural peasantry were regarded as "base" people and fared better. However, the Khmer Rouge's cruelty was enacted on both groups. It also depended much upon where you were from. For example, people in the East generally got it worse. It is debated whether or not the Khmer Rouge began "crimes against humanity" or a protracted "genocide". There are claims that there were a disproportionate number of ethnic Chams killed, and the ethnically Vietnamese also suffered persecution.

Nonetheless, the Khmer also suffered often indiscriminate mass killings. A 1978 Vietnamese invasion drove the Khmer Rouge into the countryside and ended 13 years of fighting (but the fighting would continue for some time in border areas). As a result of the devastating politics of the Khmer Rouge regime, virtually no infrastructure was left. Institutions of higher education, finance, and all forms of commerce were destroyed in 1978, so the country had to be rebuilt from scratch. UN-sponsored elections in 1993 helped restore some semblance of normalcy, as did the rapid diminution of the Khmer Rouge in the mid-1990s. A coalition government, formed under pressure of the losing party following national elections in 1998, brought renewed political stability and the surrender of remaining Khmer Rouge forces. Many leaders of the formal periods kept important positions. They often adopted more liberal views as long they could extract personal profit of the situation.

SOURCE: http://wikitravel.org/en/Cambodia