China Sends Forage to their Wild Horses this Winter

 

Wild Outer Mongolian Takhi

As the cold front pounds Northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, 700 tons of forage have been sent to the Kala Maili Natural Reserve, home to the rare and endangered Przewalski’s horses.

“The horses have difficulties foraging with the thick snow on the grass. We’ve prepared more than 600 tons of forage, and nearly 700 tons of corn, barley and carrots for the wild horses here,” Zhang Yanbao, a specialist at the Xinjiang Wild Horse Breeding and Research Center of the natural reserve, told Xinhua News Agency.

Przewalski’s horse is a rare and endangered wild horse named after a Russian colonel who believed he had discovered this breed of wild horse in 1878. Its population is even slightly smaller than that of giant pandas.

At present, there are 954 Przewalski’s horses living in the wild at the natural reserve.

Tropical Summer in Broome

Broome

For the savvy sun-seeker who wants a memorable holiday without all the expense, a summertime escape to Broome has everything you could wish for, and more. Broome - where the outback meets the sea - is considered the gateway to the Western Kimberley, and a true gem of Australia. From the turquoise waters of Roebuck Bay to the rich pindan soil that collides with the brilliant white sands of Cable Beach before tumbling into the cool blue ocean, Broome is a town of vibrant colour and contrast.

Every smart traveller knows that the best way to save and indulge at the same time is to take advantage of off-peak seasons, especially when it comes to luxury accommodation. That's why Broome's tropical summer - from November to April - is such an exciting time to visit. Not only are you avoiding the crush of visitor numbers, you're able to benefit from the many terrific deals on offer at Broome's luxury resorts, hotels and serviced apartments. Whether it's the boutique eco-beauty of newly opened The Billi (thebilli.com.au), Pinctada Cable Beach (pinctadacablebeach.com.au), The Pearle of Cable Beach (thepearle.com.au), perennial favourite Cable Beach Club Resort and Spa (cablebeachclub.com), or eco resort Eco Beach (ecobeach.com.au) an hour's drive south of Broome, you're sure to find an exceptional bargain that will stretch your dollar further - and provide you with a holiday to remember.

Broome's gourmet scene is a highlight of the area year round, but with a focus during the tropical summer months on fresh, seasonal barramundi. For fine dining, look no further than the Selene Brasserie at Pinctada Cable Beach or the award-winning Club Restaurant at Cable Beach Club. For mid-range fare with bags of fun thrown in, Matso's Cafe & Brewery (matsos.com.au) will delight you with everything from handcrafted mango beer to a quality curry or a kangaroo steak. Azuki Japanese Fusion (08 9193 7211) is another perfect example of the inventiveness of the local chefs. Broome's tropical summer is also smack bang in the middle of mango season! From October to December the town is gripped by mango madness, culminating in a Mango Festival at the end of November.

Daytime temperatures hold in the mid 30s, and night-time settles around the mid 20s. With most of the area's rainfall coming between January and early March, the resultant humidity means just one thing: perfect conditions for dramatic sunsets and lightning shows.

There are many outdoor past times to enjoy, and that doesn't just mean the al fresco dining options of local favourites like the Sunset Bar & Grill at Cable Beach Club, the Old Zoo Café (zoocafe.com.au), Aarli Bar (08 9192 5529) or the relaxed tropical garden setting at Café D'Amore (cafedamore.com.au). It also means long evening walks, sunset sailing tours in a century-old pearl lugger (broomelugger.com), and perhaps the most famous and picturesque of all Broome activities - sunset camel rides along Cable Beach.

Broome

The township of Broome itself is fascinating. Its vibrant culture, expressed eloquently by the Asian-influenced architecture of Chinatown, by the numerous Indigenous art galleries, and of course by its markets, bookshops and the famous Sun Pictures - the world's oldest operating outdoor picture theatre (broomemovies.com.au) - will delight curious travellers and history buffs alike. Broome's multicultural mix was further shaped by its rich Japanese, Filipino and Malay pearling history, and Chinatown remains a great place to visit a showroom and pick out a South Sea Pearl or two.

Set your sights on a summertime adventure in one of Australia's favourite holiday destinations - and save! 

Swimming Lessons At Sydney Aquatic Centre

It is important that all children learn to swim so that they can safely enjoy the fun of playing in water. For children living in Sydney, Australia, swimming lessons will be available from 7-11, 14-18 and 21-25 January 2013 at the Aquatic Centre at the Sydney Olympic Park.

Kid friendly - These are an essential part of growing up for all Aussie kids, with programs to suit all levels.

Learn swimming these school holidays. Swimming lessons are an essential skill for growing Aussie kids. The Aquatic Centre has programs to suit all levels. Learn to swim at a world-class Olympic Games venue, under the expert supervision of our experienced coaches.

Programs include:

•   Learn to swim - preschool & school age
•   Special needs
•   Private lesson
•   Specialist clinics

Help your kids become confident and water-wise.

Swimming lessons are just one of the popular holiday activities at the Aquatic Centre. The pool is heated to 26 degrees for year-round comfort. Help your kids become confident and water wise!

Cost: $75 per week

Tickets/Bookings: Visit the Aquatic Centre website or call 02 9752 3666

Age: All ages

More info:  Visit the Aquatic Centre website or call 02 9752 3666

The National Museum of Korean Contemporary History to Open

‘The National Museum of Korean Contemporary History’ will be open to the public on December 26th. The museum, located in Jongno, Seoul, is Korea’s first national museum showcasing the contemporary history of the Republic of Korea.

The National Museum of Korean Contemporary History is located in the old Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, which has since been remodeled. The building has 8 stories and 10,734㎡ of total surface area and is comprised of 4 permanent exhibition halls, 2 planned exhibition halls, a storage room, a seminar room, a café, and a rooftop garden. The museum houses over 1500 artifacts from the time of the Joseon Dynasty first opening its ports to the outside world up to present day. The museum is expected to serve as a great venue to provide information on various aspects of Korean politics, society, economics, and culture.

New York Never Sleeps - To The Joy Of Global Travelers

 New York

Suffering insomnia or just fancy a big night out: New York City is the city to visit for matchless nightlife, according to a recent survey by the hotels expert Hotels.com®. The survey, which questioned 27,000 travelers from around the world, shows that the Big Apple is the world’s best city when it comes to night time entertainment. Gamblers’ paradise Las Vegas is the globetrotters’ second favorite choice while London comes in at number three.

The survey also reveals that, although the gold and silver medals go to the U.S., six out of the Top Ten cities are in Europe. As well as London, Paris, Barcelona, Berlin, Amsterdam and Madrid all make it into the world’s favorite list while Los Angeles and Bangkok, as the only Asian city, complete the Top Ten.

“New York always provides an incredible travel adventure especially at this time of year with holiday decorations and New Year’s celebrations,” said Taylor L. Cole, director of public relations and social media, North America at Hotels.com. “Not only is Las Vegas non-stop fun, but it also offers a peak at European culture with all of its diverse hotels and clubs for those that want to stay closer to home.”

Wondering where to go when you venture to one of these top ranked cities? PartyEarth.com ranks nightlife hotspots by your interests. According to the party experts you can have a great time right at your hotel in New York City by staying at the Empire Hotel, Hotel le Bristol in Paris and Sunset Tower Hotel in Los Angeles.

The world’s Top Ten for a big night out

 New York

Position      City

1              New York

2              Las Vegas

3               London

4                 Paris

5              Barcelona

6                 Berlin

7             Amsterdam

8                Madrid

9             Los Angeles

10              Bangkok

Are you Tough Enough?

 

Tough Mudder

Then the naturally refreshing Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia, is the place to be in August 2013 for the fun and fitness challenge when Tough Mudder and the 7 Sunshine Coast Marathon & Community Run Festival will be back-to-back events.

Tough Mudder Sunshine Coast will be held on 17-18 August 2013. The hard-core obstacle course is one of the fastest growing sports, attracting almost half a million participants worldwide in 2012. Originally designed by British Special Forces, Tough Mudder is considered one of the toughest events on the planet.

Tough Mudder Operations Manager George Spring said "the Sunshine Coast event will be the biggest and best event held to date."

Sunshine Coast Destination Ltd CEO Steve Cooper said, events such as these are in the DNA of the Sunshine Coast.

He said the region plays host to the third largest triathlon in the world in Noosa, and attracts sporting teams and sporting events because of the year-round temperate climate and natural attractions.

Tough Mudder appeals to participants because the event is about both physical and mental toughness. Grab some friends and form a team, or take the challenge on yourself. The event promises to unlock a true sense of accomplishment, while having a great time in a region known for its natural beauty.

7 Sunshine Coast Marathon

Sunshine Coast Mayor Mark Jamieson has challenged competitors to back up the Tough Mudder event with participation in the 7 Sunshine Coast Marathon & Community Run Festival held a week later on 25 August.

Book your accommodation online now for the biggest sporting event to come to Queensland: www.visitsunshinecoast.com.au

Monte Carlo Announces its 150th Anniversary and a Full Calendar of Events in 2013

 

The glamorous principality of Monaco has a big year ahead. The year 2013 marks not only the 150th anniversary of Monte Carlo but also the one of the famous Grand Casino and the birth of SBM group, one of the most exclusive resorts worldwide and hosting the finest casinos, 4 and 5 star hotels, restaurants and spas.

Monaco is thus looking forward to an exciting year with even more style, flavour and events than usual and to celebrate 150 years of five star service SBM has offers a range of attractive anniversary offers for both - individual travellers and groups.

Calender of Events 2013

Monte Carlo International Circus Festival 2013

Dates: 17-27 January 2013
In Monte Carlo every beginning of a new year means that a new circus festival will take over the principality which transforms the Principality of Monaco into the global capital of circus arts. Celebrating its 37th anniversary, there will be several major happenings throughout this unique event. Highlights include an open door show, exhibitions at the Princess Grace Theatre, a trade fair, comedic performances, plenty of games and competitions and much more.
More Info and tickets: www.montecarlofestival.mc  or www.France-billet.com and FNAC

Monte Carlo Tennis Rolex Masters 2013

Dates: 13-21.4.2013
This is one of the top sport highlights of the year and loved by spectators not only for its international reputation but also for its stunning location at the Monte Carlo Country Club (SBM property) overlooking the sea.
More Info and tickets: http://www.monte-carlorolexmasters.com/News/Tennis/2012/Pretournament/2012-Tickets-Information.aspx

Formula 1 - Grand Prix 2013

Monaco Grand Prix

Dates: 23-26 May 2013
Monte Carlo has the annual honour of hosting one of the most attended and prestigious racing events world-wide, the famous 'Grand Prix'. Its claim to fame lies in the beauty of the circuit offering amazing views over the French Riviera and the harbour of Monaco hosting some of the most exclusive and luxurious yachts in the world.
More Info and tickets: http://www.grand-prix-monaco.com/formula1monaco/grandprix/calendar.html

International Television Festival

Dates: 10-14 June 2013

The 52nd television festival will be held in the Grimaldi Forum, as every year. On the programme are preview screenings of series, autograph signing sessions, meetings with international actors and producers, large-scale special events, prestigious evening events and sumptuous receptions - all in the unique, magical atmosphere that can only be found in the Principality.

International Fireworks Competition

Date: July

Presenters from different countries around the world will display a spectacular show accompanied by music playing in harmony with the fireworks.

Summer Concerts at the Prince's Palace

Date: various dates in July

The summer concerts offer a top performance of the philharmonic orchestra of Monaco in a stunning setting: the courtyard of the prince's palace. The first four concerts occurred in 1959. Critics from around Europe came to hear the Orchestra and unanimously claimed it to be one of the best symphonic organizations in Europe.

More Info: http://www.palais.mc/monaco/palais-princier/english/museums-et-visits/summer-concerts/summer-concerts.454.html

 

Monte Carlo Summer Sporting Festival

Dates: July/ August 2013
This festival offers glamour and variety entertainment under the Stars of Monaco in one of the most beautiful venues overlooking the sea and the coast. International variety entertainment, the most famous stars of yesterday and today and a legendary venue make Monte Carlo sparkle even brighter in July and August with unique artists and first - rate shows attracting visitors from all around the world. The 2012 program gave a place of honour to exceptional artists, legendary bands and start-up talents. Guests included: Enrique Iglesias, the American band Pink Martini, Hugh Laurie, the famous German "Scorpions" and many more. One night in August will be devoted to the red cross with the  Red Cross Gala being held in the stunning "Salle des Étoiles".
More Info: http://en.sportingsummerfestival.com

Monaco Yacht Show 2013

Dates: 25-28 September 2013
The Principality of Monaco has long been a major destination for the yachting world, both as home port and favourite port of call for owners and their superyachts, as well as the headquarters of many boat designers and the big brokers.  From 25 to 28 September Monaco's famous 'Port Hercules' will bring together professionals and private visitors with leaders in the international yachting sector including the most important builders, designers, suppliers and providers who are given the opportunity of facing an important international clientele at this exclusive Yacht event. Last year the event achieved its record attendance with an impressive number of more than 33,000 visitors.
More Info: http://www.monacoyachtshow.com/index.php?/en/

Monaco National Day

Date: 19 November

The "Fête Nationale Monégasque" is no longer just a reflection of Monegasque specificities and traditions but has become a day of high-end entertainment including festive and cultural highlights such as gala evenings, shows, concerts, parades, fireworks at the famous Port Hercules and an amusement fair on Albert I Quay.

Winter Festivities

Dates: Throughout the month of December

Christmas Market -The Christmassy stalls are lined up along the Quai Albert 1er offering a fabulous setting with stunning views over "Port Hercules", Monaco's famous port hosting the world's most luxurious yachts. What visitors love most about Monaco's Christmas market is its authenticity and flair and the animations that are genuine and reflect Monaco's values and traditions.

 

Cultural offer throughout the year:

Monaco's popularity is without a doubt due to its asset of combining being the stunning number 1 state of glamour of the Côte d'Azur and offering an impressive amount of cultural richness and diversity. Especially in winter Monaco's opera and Dance Forum present world-class masterpieces and promise a breathtaking program of entertainment, class, elegance and sophistication with one of the most beautiful shows the world has ever seen presented from 21-23 December 2012: The "Ballets de Monte Carlo".

-         Opera de Monte Carlo: Info and program available on http://www.opera.mc/

-         Ballets de Monte Carlo and Monaco Dance Forum:

Highlights of 2013: Ballet Royal du Cambodge (March), Royal Ballet (June)

Kids in the Park - School Holiday Fun

 

Offering fantastic value for money and an amazing array of choice, Kids in the Park is Sydney's best school holiday program will run from 22 December 2012 - 28 January 2013.

Kids in the Park is massive fun for kids of all ages, whatever their passion. Coming soon, check out the huge range of school holiday activities.

Sydney Olympic Park Summer school holiday program starts on 22 December and runs until the 28 January, providing loads of things to do at Sydney Olympic Park.

With over 50 activities to choose from, Kids in the Park offers an exciting range of things to do including entertainment, arts, recreation and sporting school holiday activities.

For the full list of summer school holiday activities in Sydney download the  Kids In the Park program (PDF 3.4 MB).

You will be spoilt of choice! Check out:

Ø      BMX racing @ Monster BMX and Mountain X track

Ø      Kids holiday camps @ The Lodge

Ø      Swimming classes at the Aquatic Centre

Ø      Writing workshops at Bicentennial Park

Ø      Tramp to ramp action sports @ Monster

Sydney Olympic Park is your one-stop shop to find out what's on in Sydney to keep the kids happy and entertained.

How much does it cost?

Each activity has a different cost. Many of the Kids in the Park holiday activities are free or under $20. You’ll find lots of fun free activities and low cost activities to entertain and challenge kids for hours.

Vacation care and day camp provide all-day supervised fun. They are great value as kids get to try lots of fun activities. Kids in the Park includes a range of challenging creative workshops, sports camps and sports lessons. These are for kids who want to learn or develop skills during the school holidays in Sydney.

When is it on?

Kids in the Park is on every school holidays at various venues around Sydney Olympic Park. Activities range from half-hour lessons and experiences, to 3 or 4 day workshops and camps. So jump in and start planning your own school holiday fun and see what's on in Sydney Olympic Park

Britain's 150th Tube Anniversary Oyster Card To Go on Sale

Next year will mark 150 years since the very first Tube journey was made between Paddington and Farringdon on the Metropolitan line. To celebrate this special 150th anniversary a souvenir Oyster card will go on sale.

This celebratory Oyster card features the new Underground 150th anniversary logo which is set against a background of vintage Tube logos or “roundels” from the early beginnings of the network to the present day. Customers can use this souvenir Oyster card across the TfL network. The cards are a limited edition and will be available at LU stations and TfL Travel Information Centres in London.

Oyster has changed the way customers pay for their travel, not only on the Tube, but also on trams, buses, DLR, London Overground and National Rail services in London. Transport for London (TfL) is at the forefront of ticketing technology and is renowned for the success of Oyster with more than 80 per cent of all journeys on London’s public transport made using an Oyster card and over 55 million cards issued since its introduction in 2003. London Underground is organising a wide range of events and activities to mark this historic anniversary. These will look at the Tube’s rich heritage and history and also at the vital role the London Underground has played, and will continue to play, in the economic success of the capital.

Events to celebrate the 150th anniversary of London Underground throughout the coming year include:

-he re-creation of the first steam train Tube journey on the London Underground on Sunday 13 January 2013

- A series of heritage rail trips for the public to experience a steam train journey

- Two new two-pound coins issued by the Royal Mint to go into circulation in 2013

- An imaginative campaign which will bring together 150 people whose personal stories will help to demonstrate the vibrant history of the Tube

- 12 short stories by well-known authors on each Tube line, published by Penguin Books

- Art on the Underground commissions with famous contemporary artists

- An LU 150 poster art exhibition at London Transport Museum

- Poems on the Underground to mark the 150th anniversary of the Tube

- Behind the scenes events and open weekends at the Museum’s store at Acton

- A new book entitled ‘London Underground by Design’ by Mark Ovenden

Sydney Scores Manchester United

Sydney will stage an Australian exclusive match between English Premier League Giants Manchester United and an All Stars team at ANZ Stadium in 2013.

The announcement was made by NSW Premier, Barry O’Farrell who said “I’m delighted that the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW, in partnership with ANZ Stadium, has won an Australian and New Zealand exclusive to host Manchester United in NSW,” Mr O’Farrell said.

“Manchester United will play a not-to-be-missed match against an All Stars team, at ANZ Stadium on Saturday 20 July 2013.

“This will be Manchester United’s first visit to Sydney since 1999 - I invite Manchester United fans and football fans across the world to come to Sydney to enjoy the best in world football, in Australia’s premier sports and major events city.

Manchester United is the most successful English football club in history, having won 19 Premier League titles, 11 FA Cups and three European Cups. The All Stars will represent the best of the Hyundai A-League with the players and coaching staff preselected by fans.

Destination NSW CEO, Sandra Chipchase, said “Destination NSW is proud to have secured another major events coup for NSW. The Manchester United game will generate more than 20,000 overnight international and interstate visitors to Sydney, contributing an estimated $16 million to the NSW economy.”