This past season while vacationing in Palm Springs I had the opportunity to participate in the what has become one of the top celebrity golf events in the United States. As with many celebrity golf events, the Frank Sinatra is presented in a five-player team gross and net scramble golf tournament that has recently found a home at the Eagle Falls Golf course in the heart of the California desert.

The Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in the east end of the Coachella valley, is home to the tournament’s three nights of parties as well as a spectacular luncheon and fashion show that keeps everybody involved in one way or another. The first night there is a pairings party where the amateur golfers a treated to a feast in the Fantasy Springs Events Center. There I got to mingle with such celebrities as baseball greats Rollie Fingers and Steve Garvey, along with actors like Joe Mantegna, Tim Reid, Kevin Sorbo and Barry Williams, and there was also former football stars such as Vince Ferragamo and Tommy Kramer.

In making up each team, there was one celebrity and four amateur contestants that combined each day to make up the full team. The team of four amateur players remain together for two consecutive days while the celebrity contestant changed teams on the second day so to bring a different flavor to the experience.

The event itself kicks off Thursday night with a dinner and pairings party that had all faces in attendance enjoying an Italian gourmet meal. On that first night I was paired with Fred “The Hammer” Williamson. Fred is a former football star who played for the Kansas City Chiefs and the Oakland Raiders. He appeared in both Superbowl I and Superbowl IV. From there he went on to fame as an actor and producer having appeared in over 80 movies.

The “Hammer” as he likes to be known as, played as the celebrity in my amateur group and along the way gave me golf tips that helped me shoot one of the best rounds of my life. As it turned out Fred, who is quite a golfer and from what I was to learn had recently won the NFL retired players annual golf event, was the overall two – day champion of the tournament.

After golf concluded there was another dinner followed by a Live & Silent Auction. That night I sat back and watched the faces that came out to the event and the camaraderie that came with it. Tired from all the festivities, I went up to my room on got a good nights sleep ready for another great day of golf.

The next morning I awoke to play a second round of golf. This time my team was paired with Elke Sommer. Elke is quite a lady and takes her golf quite seriously. That evening, the event was wrapped up with a reception followed by an award dinner and then a Night Cap Party that was invitation only. In between the mouth -watering food and charity auctions, there was entertainment that included singers and comedians.

The whole weekend is dedicated to the memory and music of “Old Blue Eyes” Frank Sinatra and benefits the Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center at the Eisenhower Medical Center. It is fantastic fun – filled event that are sure to create memories that will last a lifetime. A must stop on your next Palm Springs vacation.

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Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal. This city is rich in culture and the art and you will find that it has a lot to offer to the many tourists that enter its walls. You will find a lot of monuments, colourful streets, heritage towers and wide squares. Lisbon sights are also not limited to the infrastructures but also to the many festivities that it holds in its squares.

The city of Lisbon is one of the main tourist attractions. It has many different levels giving the city a certain charm. You will also find a lot of hill tops, ancient quarters, squares and shop fronts designed beautifully in the city. There are many elaborate shops and architectural styles that are displayed down town as well.

You might want to visit the Castelo de Sao Jorge. You will have to walk up a steep hill but once you reach the castle, you will be awarded with a breath taking view: you will be overlooking the Old town of Lisbon, Tejo-Bay, 24th April Bridge, Christ the King Statue and the ocean.

The cathedral of Lisbon is one of the most frequented spots in Lisbon. It as rich history, being built over Moorish Mosque ruins. This cathedral leaves an impression of a fortress with its two massive towers one either side. There is no entrance fee except for the old convent and museum which if you choose to visit will require you to pay a small fee.

Do not miss going to the elevator Santa Justa. This breath taking trip will whisk you away to a lot more of amazing Lisbon sights.

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Spain will be first on this journey of beaches. Spain is surrounded by water on three sides and therefore the country has many beautiful beaches, which are known to be the best in the world. Since there are so many beaches to choose from, visitors are often confused on where to go. Below describes some of the most popular picks of Spain’s beaches. Playa Concha in San Sebastian – La Concha beach is considered as one of the best beaches of the European beach cities. It is located in the city of San Sebastian, which is a popular tourist destination in Spain. The city is famous for tapas or appetizers, which you will find served in abundance here. The La Concha beach is known for providing visitors with a lot of water sports such as kayaking, canoeing and windsurfing.

Costa del Sol – This stretch of beach is by far the most popular series of beaches in Spain. Costa del Sol is particularly known for being the venues for a lot of parties, and is located on the southern coast of Spain. This beach is very crowded and you can expect a lot of British and German visitors. But if you want, you can go off track to find some calm beaches. Second would be the country of Portugal. One of the main attractions in Portugal is their famous and beautiful beaches. Portugal beaches are blue flag beaches making it ideal for families. Additionally, there are 800 kilometers of coastline in Portugal, a great way to spend your vacation either during summer or winter.

Algarve – One of the most famous beaches in this area is the 6 km long Praia de Falesia “beach town”. Especially popular with German and British tourists are the resorts of Albufeira and Vilamoura. Praia de Falesia is a paradise for lovers of sun and is located in a quiet setting along the southern coast of Portugal. Other popular beaches in the Algarve region are: Praia da Gale, Albufeira and Meia Praia in Lagos. Meia Praia is particularly popular with families because it is protected by a large bay near Alvor Praia Praia da Rocha / Portimao.

Alentejo – Stretching from the Algarve to the Sado Estuary this rugged coastline is also graced with many small beaches. Most of them are secluded in coves along the coast which require transportation by car from the airport or inland area. Vila Nova de Milfontes is an exception since it can be accessed by bus from Lisbon. Other beaches that should not be missed are Gale Melides, Santo Andr, Porto Covo, and Almograve Zambujeira do Mar. Alentejo is becoming a retreat for Northern Europeans looking to escape their overcrowded countries.

Lisbon or Sintra Coast – The popular resort of Lisbon is mainly occupied by Costa da Caparica a large sandy beach which is very busy and very popular especially during the summer in Portugal. It is popular for sunbathing, enjoying the cafes and bars and surfing as well. The Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is one of the 13 Natural Parks of Portugal. Other beaches to visit along the coastal region are the beaches of Sesimbra and Portinho da Arrbida beach. These beautiful beaches are relatively quiet and extremely popular among divers.

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Conference rooms available at many hotels are suitable for corporate breakaways. The hopeless romantics can make their wedding into fairytale tale wedding at these hotels, breathtaking views and surroundings makes it perfect. Brisbane also boasts a very entertaining nightlife for the outgoing and partygoers. Nightclubs, casinos, tours, pubs and restaurants are top of the range. Shuttle services are available to transport you to all locations.

Boutique and corporate style hotels are available to both leisure and business travelers, situated in and around South Brisbane, West End, Kangaroo Point and Wooloongabba. Luxury 5 star resorts and retreats can be found in Moreton Island, Boondall, Mount Ommaney, South East Queensland Country and Lockyer Valley.

Places of interest and things to do are unlimited. You can go have a look at how sheep are being sheared, or hand feed a kangaroo. Alternatively, you can create an amazing memory by having your photo taken while holding the very rare koala. Young ones would enjoy bottle-feeding the baby lambs. Hundreds of wildlife species could be seen at the zoo. To mention a few is wombats, Tasmanian devils, dingoes and even the most venomous snakes in the world.

There will be places such as sea world located at flinders reef where you could explore the amazing undersea. For couples in love there will be special river cruises that will serve a lovely dinner. You could go for a hot air balloon ride and then enjoy the scenic views and end your journey with a champagne breakfast. In Morton, you could find several island tours. The dolphin that is the only sea creature that breathes with their lungs. You could enjoy the extraordinary experience of feeding them too.

As the grand finale to make your stay unforgettable, dolphin feeding and swimming with them are one of the activities offered. Extremists are also catered for with tandem diving and night or day bridge climbing with spectacular sunset views.

Quality family time can be spent cruising along the Gold canal, touring through the wild in canopies, or go where the waves are beyond believe at Surfers Paradise. Shipwreck snorkeling will take you back in time. Enjoy swimming where most discoveries were made. You are sure to be fascinated with years and years of history at your fingertips.

To end you magical holiday, you may take a boat ride into the blue ocean. People love feeling the air fill their lungs and the wind in their hair while watching whales up close. Whether it is for work, pleasure, romance, family time or just a fun getaway, people come to Brisbane for unforgettable times. Brisbane accommodation specials are available all year round.

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Location matters to visitors and so it helps that the resort is only 5 minutes from Coolangatta Airport. But the resort is a virtual oasis of peace as compared to the bedlam and din at Surfers Paradise. The only thing that stands between the apartments and the Coral Sea is the beach.

Since the residents are mostly interested only in either cricket or fishing, the whole place is left open and available for resort guests and visitors. In addition to the beach and Surf Club, visitors can enjoy a stroll through the Fruit Market. For those who need a drink and a quick bite to eat, the Tavern counter awaits.

As for the resort facilities, these are 3 1/2 & 4-star apartments spread over 5 floors in a complex that offers free underground parking. Each apartment has floor to ceiling windows leading out to a balcony that offers a full and sweeping view of the ocean. Apartments are fully furnished with every modern amenity and appliances that visitors might possibly need.

This list includes cable/satellite with dvd players, telephones and internet, a kitchen filled with appliances and a full size refrigerator, dishwasher, oven, microwave, etc. Baths come with showers, and there’ll also be things like a washing machine, iron & board and so on. The bedrooms usually have Queen Beds.

Resort facilities for use by guests include a tennis court, and an outdoor heated pool fronting the beach, plus a spa pool. There’s a rooftop sauna & hot tub, and beach barbeques are quite common. Guests can also kill time in the game room which has a pool table, tv and video games.

Guests who can manage to tear themselves away from the resort for checking out the local attractions will find a dazzling array of choices. Families have choices like a Gold Coast hinterland expedition or the trills of the theme parks. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary awaits nature lovers, while the lovely golf course at Rabina awaits golfers. Shopaholics can max out in the boutiques and food lovers can taste all kinds of cuisine.

Visitors come here for many different reasons. Families come looking for an affordable beach vacation. Couples arrive looking for a quiet romantic getaway. Others come to take advantage of the resort specials.

Be that as it may, the one thing that’s common to every guest here is the satisfaction they get – many have listed it as their best vacation ever in the resort’s feedback forms. That’s not really surprising, given that San Simeon in Tugun is among Queensland and the Gold Coast’s top holiday villages, and also one of the top destinations in Australia. That’s why a visitor who comes here once ends up making it a habit.

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The centre of all things fun on the Gold Coast is Surfers Paradise. There are miles of beaches on the coast to be discovered, but the most famous of all is Surfers. There are many different backpackers’ accommodations that are just across from the beach or a short walk from the beach and they range from budget to boutique style backpacking accommodations.

As well as being a centre for the accommodation for backpackers, Surfers Paradise is also a place where you can find many things to do as well. One of the chief delights of the area is the golden fine sands of the beach, which stretches as far as the eye can see.

As well as the beach, there is a lot to do off the sand too. At Surfers there is loads of shopping to be done that ranges from souvenirs, budget clothes, surf clothes from the best Australian brands and prestige international brands too. You can find whatever you want in the mall as well as the shopping centres such as Australia Fair. In Surfers if you are looking for a little adrenaline, then you can have a go at the bungee bullet.

Nearby there are a heap of theme parks, which are a lot of fun for a day trip. There is Movie World, Sea World, Dream World and Wet ‘n’ Wild water park. You can also get up close and personal with some Australian wildlife by visiting the Currumbin Bird Sanctuary or meet some bottle nose dolphins at Tangalooma. The Gold Coast is also one of the best places in the world to learn how to surf. Many of the day trips to these locations and lessons can be organised through your backpackers hostel.

There are many different facilities that you can find in backpackers hostels on the Gold Coast. Some of these include: free pick up from the airport, lockers, free linen and washing facilities, BBQ areas, swimming pools, communal kitchens, internet, pool tables, discounts at theme parks, attractions and bars and clubs.

On the Gold Coast there is a wide choice of accommodation styles on offer for backpackers. Finding the right accommodation can make all the difference and provide you with the perfect holiday experience. There are usually great deals that can be found for backpackers hostels and you can find them all year round.

Gold Coast accommodation backpackers hostels are packed with facilities to help make your stay in the sunshine state of Australia fun and memorable. Look out for great accommodation deals on the Gold Coast that are on offer all throughout the year – where the weather is beautiful one day, perfect the next.

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This kind of decision is ultimately upto the traveler, and most likely the travel budget. The point is that being eco-friendly matters, but not more than the wallet. In this regard, there are all kinds of choices, from ultra-cheap backpacker hostels to high-end luxury resorts and hotels in posh locations like Hastings Street, near to Main Beach and the National Park.

For travelers who need the modern amenities and facilities of a full-service hotel, there are two possibilities. One, as mentioned above, is a nice hotel in or near Hastings Street. Travelers staying here can expect everything from onsite restaurants to spas and valet parking and dry-cleaning/laundry.

The outdoor pools are so inviting that guests will feel torn between lazing poolside and heading for the beach. The guest rooms likewise will offer views of Noosa Village, the river or Laguna Bay. In-room amenities usually include cable television, refrigerators, coffee makers, hairdryers, etc.

There’s also a second option for those who want a little extra privacy and/or space than a hotel stay can offer. This means serviced apartments which are run more like a resort than an apartment building. The difference is that people stay in their apartments, but get all the modern comforts, amenities and services available in a full-service hotel.

One step above this would be a secluded cottage, chalet or guesthouse. There are plenty of options for this choice, including rainforest retreats and country cottages and estates. Many of these choices can be found a bare 10-15 min drive from Hastings Street. Some are isolated beachfront properties set right on the sand dunes a few steps from the water.

One step below the luxury resorts, there are many fairly decent chain hotels that offer all the comforts of home at an affordable price for families on vacation. For those looking at a ‘responsible’ stay in harmony with nature, there are plenty of caravan parks and campsites. Some visitors might even enjoy an exotic experience in a houseboat stay on the river.

Regardless of the price or type of Noosa Accommodation, what’s assured is an exciting and enjoyable stay. It is, of course, a place of natural beauty with pristine beaches and no tall buildings to spoil the view. But it also has a wealth of tourist attractions and things to do including whale watching and forays into the spectacular hinterland, plus Fraser Island which is the world’s biggest all sand island.

Visitors come here all the way from Brisbane and other parts of Queensland to have a good time, and enjoy the natural beauty. The people here know that having a good time includes a hassle free and comfortable stay. Whether it is in a luxury hotel suite or a cheap backpacker, each and every visitor in Noosa gets the same courtesy and service with a smile.

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Coming in at number 5 on our list is the ever-fashionable Shangri-La. With a stunning view of Sydney Harbour, this hotel rates 17.5 out of 20 possible points from its customers. The decor in this 563 room hotel is striking in its Eastern-inspired airiness, and service is priority one. On the 36th floor, the Blu Horizon Bar and the Altitude Restaurant share a striking view of both the harbour and the city. The Shangri-La hosts the Alysium Spa and Health Club which include a superlative hair salon, fitness center, and Roman-style pool.

Number 4 on our list is The Observatory Hotel. Hidden away on a quiet street in the Rocks district in Sydney, this is one of Sydney’s most intimate and stylish hotels. Here opulent, spacious bedrooms offer the Regency style. Modern conveniences such as the TV, CD player and safe are concealed inside cabinets and armoires. Marble is lavished throughout the bathrooms, with sport heated towel racks and oversize bath tubs. Slippers and an umbrella are even thoughtfully provided. The Observatory’s amenities include a 20 -meter heated pool, gym, tennis court, and day spa, and children and small pets are welcome.

Number 3 on our list stands on a finger of the old wharf extending out over the water in Woolloomooloo. Picturesque views of the marina, harbour and city will draw you here. The Blue’s loft-style rooms are distinctive, placing the roomy beds above the living space for extra airiness. Rather than the stark minimalist decor chosen by other places, the Blue plunges its visitors into a riot of rich textures and colors to fill the senses. There will be no need to go ashore if you don’t want to – the Blue and wharf feature several exceptional restaurants, bars and shops.

Number 2 on the list is the Medusa Hotel. Peculiar yet stylish, this 18th century Victorian townhome is located in Sydney’s boutique district. If the exterior is Victorian, the interior will shock you. Bold, and modern – the Medusa takes pride in drawing young and creative types to is brilliantly decorated rooms. King and Queen beds, and marble-and-glass bathrooms make this hotel dramatic and vibrant. The Medusa, however is simply a place to lay your head between adventures. As a converted townhome, it boasts no restaurant, no bar, no shops – though there are plenty of those in the surrounding Darlinghurst neighborhood.

At the top of our list at number 1, The Establishment Hotel offers large, plush rooms of either starkly Japanese decor or subtle European colors. Sumptuous beds offer restful nights on Egyptian cotton sheets. Fresh flowers, massage services, and other opulent amenities make you feel pampered. The Establishment’s world-class restaurants and bars draw locals for the city’s most glittering nightlife. It’s possible this hotel is near perfect.

There is one world-class hotel not mentioned on our list – not because it isn’t worthy, but simply because it wasn’t rated by its guests. However, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention the Park Hyatt Sydney, as it is arguably one of the most impressive hotels in Australia. Standing to face Sydney Cove, the Park Hyatt is an understated edifice on its exterior. Inside it is all class with generous rooms and large comfortable beds, decorated in soothing earth tones that speak classic European. If you pick up the remote to watch the television you might open the draperies to view the exquisite waterfront – a scene that’s hard to ignore. The hotel offers 24 hours butler service, excellent amenities, and incomparable restaurant and bar. Perhaps there is nothing else to ask for.

It’s the vacation of a lifetime with adventures just waiting for you as you voyage to the underside of the world. Sure – any cut-rate hotel room would suffice, probably. But maybe this is your chance to revel in luxury.

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For example, the Treasury Casino and Hotel is perfect for the couple seeking to play at gaming tables and try their hands at slot machines. How lucky do you feel? Come play responsibly. Alternatively, enjoy some fantastic musical entertainment, an always shifting line-up of talented acts.

Rooms provide safes, electronic security and phones for that feeling of security when you win big. Also take advantage of air conditioning for comfort from the heat of winning. Your LCD TV will help you relax or dock your Ipod in the station provided to fall asleep to your personal music selection. One unusual convenience, universal adaptors, allows foreign guests to bring their own electric shavers and look especially tidy at the Black Jack table.

Apart from gym and sauna, Treasury provides massage, mail service and babysitting. Five bars and six restaurants wait to serve guests, including the business guest looking to impress clients. Make use of business facilities when your gamble has more to do with professional risks than slot machines.

Four hundred and twenty-nine rooms welcome guests to the Sofitel. Advertised as the height of luxury, staff encourages guests to slip on cozy bathrobes and sink their feet into soft slippers. Make yourself at home with a tea or coffee in-room, or even a drink from the mini-bar.

The most extravagant accommodation is the Opera Room. Delight in two floors of living space. Visitors will make the most of separate living, sleeping and dining rooms, two toilets (great for any party with two or more women), and kitchen.

The Rydges South Bank provides bright rooms. With your mini bar, fridge, iron and board you might feel like you never left home until heading down to the gym and spa. Surely your own home is not so well stocked with fitness equipment?

That is, unless they want to stay at Rydges for supper. Extensive menus meet the preferences of varied guests. Enjoy seafood, tapas and other styles of food. Room service menus include dishes selected especially for younger visitors. Rooms include the regular guest suite, or those with private balconies, separate living and sleeping rooms.

Stay at Rocklea International Motel Hotel for proximity to all things exhilarating. A speedway, raceways and market are all close. Invite potential business partners for a show at ANZ Stadium before sealing a deal over supper at the hotel. Packages include Bed and Breakfast, Romance or something just for the Gourmet.

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Metro Hotel Sydney Central is just about as central as it gets. More than two hundred rooms provide guests with air conditioning (welcome during the hot weather), TV and internet access. Keep drinks and perishables in the handy refrigerator, fantastic for families with kids who need to eat on their own timetable. Ask for a cot to be set-up in the room for the very youngest guests.

Of special interest to parents will be twenty-four hour reception and a doctor on-call at all hours. When far away from home this can put parental worries to rest. Also available are currency exchange, pool and restaurant.

Amora Hotel Jamison offers over four hundred rooms to tired tourists. Use this as your place to stop on your tour of the country, the state, or between flights to further shores. While visiting take the opportunity to pamper your self at Angsana Spa, located on hotel premises. When time comes to rest upstairs, windows are covered with sheer and black out blinds.

Patrons looking for a fusion of traditional and modern cuisine will enjoy Charr Restaurant with its selection of Australian and New Zealand wines. There is one other restaurant and two bars to accommodate the different tastes of diners and drinkers. On return to your room, relax in front of a flat screen TV. If jet lag has you wakeful at all hours, turn on the Play Station.

A stay at Great Southern Hotel will start the historical leg of your tour. Guests have rested here for more than a century. Over one hundred and sixty rooms await weary travelers eager for a bit of climate control, phone service and a refreshing shower.

Other facilities to take advantage of include TV, ISD and STD phones, twenty-four hour reception and internet kiosk. Blow-off post-travel steam in the gym. Follow-up your work out with a visit to Olivers Kitchen for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Rooms are non-smoking.

Reserve a space at the heart of shopping with a room at Hotel Ibis World Square. Oxford Street is also close for night life. Couples and singles can make the most of a weekend spending spree or nights spent clubbing. Families may not be interested in the night time antics of city-goers, but could appreciate babysitting service, in-house movies, tea and coffee making facilities. Those grab bags for meals on the go sure are convenient for hectic schedules too.

A long term homeowner of Australia’s most well-known town, Sydney, Alison McCubbin is certainly obsessed with all community things. Alison and also her relatives run a compact vacation associated online business and provides information on Sydney Accommodation