The ICEHOTEL - officially one of the wonders of Sweden..!!

What are the 7 wonders of Sweden? And who votes for the 7 wonders of Sweden?

The Seven Wonders of Sweden really do exist. In mid-2007, amongst all the talk about the new "7 Wonders of the World", the Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet called upon all readers to vote for their country's own favorite wonders. Having not been able to make the list of "7 Wonders of the World", over 80,000 Swedes voted and proudly selected the following wonders to be the "Seven Wonders of Sweden":

1. The Göta Kanal: With the most votes, Göta Canal came in first place. This 150-mile canal was built in the early 19th century and is highly popular. The canal stretches from Gothenburg on the west coast all the way to Söderköping on the east coast of Sweden.

2. Visby's City Wall: In second place, there's the city wall of Visby which was erected in the 13th century and stretches around the entire city, 2 miles in length. This location is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. The War Ship Vasa: The Vasa was built by King Gustavus Adolphus II in 1628 and is a major attraction in Stockholm. The king made his ship much too shallow and it had major design flaws. On her virgin voyage, the Vasa tipped over and sank only 900 ft from shore where the public was watching. See it at the Vasa Museum!

4. The ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjarvi/Kiruna: The ICEHOTEL in Sweden's Lapland region is the biggest attraction in the area. Originally, the creators started out building a simple igloo, which later turned into the elaborate and now famous ICEHOTEL. This place is made only from the waters of the nearby river Torne and melts each summer!

5. The Turning Torso: Swedish wonder number five is the Turning Torso, a skyscraper in Malmö, Sweden. The tower has 54 stories and is more than 600 ft high, with a unique design based on twisting bodies. The Turning Torso is one of the tallest buildings in Scandinavia and is Malmö's most popular landmark.

6. The Oresund Bridge: The bridge connecting Denmark and Sweden comes in at place 6. The world-famous Oresund Bridge has 4 lanes, 2 rail tracks, and runs for almost 28,000 ft (8,000 meters) to connect two countries. It crosses the sea held by cables.

7. The Globe: Last but not least, Swedes felt that Stockholm's Globa Arena should be included in Sweden's 7 Wonders. Found in southern Stockholm, Globen (The Globe) is the world's largest "round" spherical building. It is highly visible from all sides and hosts sporting and music events year-round.

Check out Sweden's amazing 4th wonder for yourself with the world's leading tour operator to the ICEHOTEL, Discover the World!

Jar City - contender for slickest movie of the year.

Move over 'RocknRolla' there's a new contender in town for slickest movie of the year! Jar City is a chilling murder mystery from Iceland, adapted from Arnaldur Indridason's bestseller. When Reykjavik Detective Inspector Erlendur (Ingvar Eggert Sigurdsson) investigates the murder of an old man, unnerving forensic discoveries lead to the deaths, 30 years apart, of two little girls, and a horrific secret is soon revealed.

Parallel tragedies gradually merge in a haunting film - one deals with Erlendur's relationship with his troubled daughter, the other with how the medical histories (and hereditary secrets) of a country's entire population are on a database for anyone with computer skills to peruse and misuse.

It's a real spellbinder with some very slick and atmospheric shots of Reykjavik. Surely this movie must be ripe for the Hollywood treatment?!

Unearth the secrets of Reykjavik for yourself with Discover the World, the world's largest tour operator to Iceland, and find out why Reykjavik is one definitely one of the coolest capitals on the planet.

Thought you knew all there was to know about Iceland? Think again.....

• Icelandic women don’t take the husband’s name when they marry, chiefly because the husband doesn’t have a family name to take.
• Because they don’t have surnames, Icelanders are listed in the telephone directory alphabetically by first name.
• Because they don’t have surnames, it is not appropriate to call an Icelander by Mr. or Ms. Almost all Icelanders use the first name with everyone—including the president of Iceland.
• The English word geyser comes from Icelandic (perhaps the only Icelandic word imported into English). Geysir is the name of a famous geyser in Iceland (which, sadly, no longer erupts).
• The Icelanders speak the Icelandic language, which is used only in Iceland and among Icelandic expatriates—chiefly in Scandinavia and North America. Icelandic is very similar to old Nor
• There are only about 270,000 Icelanders in the country. About half of them live in the capital Reykjavik and its suburbs.
• Iceland is the world’s oldest democracy. Its parliament (Althingi) was founded about 1,000 years ago.
• Iceland has vast amounts of water—because it rains so much. Icelandic water is so clean and pure that it is piped into the city and to the kitchen taps in the home without any treatment (no chlorination needed).
• Urban Icelandic homes do not need a water heater or a furnace for heating. Steam and hot water are piped into the city from natural geysers and hot springs for use in homes and buildings.
• Because of its bountiful water supply and many rivers, Iceland has vast reserves of hydroelectric power. Electricity is so inexpensive that aluminum ore (bauxite) is shipped in to the country, made into aluminum, and the aluminum ingots are shipped out again. (Smelting aluminum requires vast amounts of electricity.)
• The weather in Iceland is not as cold as you might think. (Winter is a heck of a lot colder in Minnesota than it is in Iceland!) The climate is relatively mild because of the influence of the Atlantic Ocean’s Gulf Stream. Average winter daytime temperature in Reykjavik is 31 degrees F. (−1 degrees C.)
• Iceland is very green, because there is so much water and the climate is mild. (There are not many trees however.) People like to say that Iceland should be named Greenland and Greenland should be named Iceland.
• Iceland lies just south of the Arctic Circle. Winter nights and summer days are long. On December 21 in the capital, the sun rises at 11:30 a.m. and sets at 3:30 p.m. On June 21 the sun sets about midnight and rises at 3:00 a.m. It never gets darker than twilight at night during the late spring and early summer.
• During a recent survey, Icelanders ranked the highest of all European countries in expressing general satisfaction with their lives.
• Icelanders rank near the top of world nations in the per capita rate of connection to the Internet.

University of Iceland To Be among the World’s Top Ten

The University of Iceland held a graduation ceremony recently for bachelor and masters students. At the ceremony two years ago, the rector announced the new goals for the university. In this year’s graduation speech she took the goals from 2006 even further.

Two years ago, Kristín Ingólfsdóttir, the rector of the University of Iceland announced that the university would aim at to be among the top 100 universities in the world before 2011, when the university celebrates its 100th anniversary.

More recentky she announced new and even more challenging goals. The university is still aiming for a seat on the top 100 list, but Ingólfsdóttir’s envisions going even further and now the goal is to get one of the university’s five faculties on the top ten list. Fréttabladid reports.

There has been a lot of discussion on how to fund such ambitious goals, with the central issue of whether the University of Iceland should charge tuition. According to Icelandic law, the state university may not charge tuition, but Althingi, the Icelandic Parliament, has made some changes in the legal framework surrounding universities so there is a legal possibility for charging school fees. However, the university’s administration has not yet made any decision on the matter. Ingólfsdóttir made no comments as to whether she would support the use of tuition.

Arctic Fever hits the UK.....

December is the season to go Arctic crazy! Christmas is only 5 weeks way and if hadn’t realised it already - the Arctic is certainly the place to be this winter season.

Set deep within the Arctic Circle the cinema version of Philip Pullman’s ‘His Dark Materials’ trilogy is one of the most eagerly awaited films of the year. The first book, The Golden Compass, which is the American title of Pullman’s novel ‘Northern Lights’ opens in the UK on December 5th. If you’re not familiar with the story then here’s a teaser. The book follows the 12-year-old heroine Lyra Belacqua on her quest to rescue Roger, her friend who has been kidnapped, whilst fighting the forces of the sinister Magisterium, an organisation which condones the abduction of children for experimentation and “intercision” – the surgical removal of their souls!

If all this sounds rather grim don’t switch off. On her quest to save the world Lyra meets a whole host of fantastic characters, including bears, wolves, children, soldiers and Gyptians!
The story is captivating and there is no doubt that if you were a fan of the ‘Lord of the Rings’ then you’re going to love this epic. However what really makes the film such a must see is the stunning visual effects all set in the snows of the icy north, a land of magical wonder which is full of surprises.

Also making an appearance next month is the new ‘Lapland Christmas Experience’ which opens in Kent – yes I did say Kent – which promises to bring a dose of Christmas magic to parents and children alike as they descend on this small section of rural Kent.

Now my question is why settle for second best when you can have the real thing?

Here at Discover the World our aim is to bring the magic to life. As the UK’s leading specialist tour operator to Swedish Lapland we can provide you with the ultimate Arctic winter experience. Whether it’s a magical Christmas with Santa at the ICEHOTEL or witnessing the mighty Orca whales at play in Norway allow us to turn your dreams into reality. With a direct flight that takes you right into the heart of this Arctic playground in only 3.5 hours make allow us to turn your dreams into reality this December

Matariki - Maori Culture set to come alive in this year's Maori New Year celebrations

This year's Matariki celebrations are set to be one of the largest the country has ever witnessed. 

The following information is straight from Tourism New Zealand and details all you need to know to get some great story ideas. At the end of the post, I have suggested a selection of itineraries perfect for experiencing the planned events and regions involved in the celebrations:

Hundreds of events are being planned around the country and the New Zealand Maori Tourism Council says it's a sure sign of New Zealand's increasing awareness of its unique culture and place in the world.

Matariki is a cluster of stars, also known as the Pleiades, or the Seven Sisters.  For Maori, the stars' appearance in the skies above Aotearoa signifies the end of one year and the beginning of another. This year the Maori New Year officially begins on 16 June 2007. 

Traditionally, Matariki (translated as tiny eyes or eyes of God) occurred at the end of harvest and it was a time to celebrate, prepare the land for planting, renew associations with whanau (family) and friends, reflect on the past and set goals for the future. 

"Today Matariki is a time for all New Zealanders to celebrate who we are and what we have achieved together," says Johnny Edmonds, Chief Executive of the New Zealand Maori Tourism Council.

The revival of Matariki has been gathering momentum for the past few years. This year will see regions all over the country participating in Matariki with their own unique activities. "It's fantastic to see so many people embracing Matariki," says Edmonds. "While it may be of Maori origins, Matariki is a time for all New Zealanders to celebrate their identity and look towards the future."

Matariki is also a time of year to learn about New Zealand's indigenous Maori culture. "It gives people, especially those visitors from overseas, a chance to engage with Maori and see what it is that makes Maori unique," says Edmonds.

Some of the highlights of Matariki 2007 include two weeks of celebrations at Te Papa, New Zealand's national museum in Wellington, including concerts, seminars, shows, workshops and a Matariki Gala.

In Northland more than 80 events are scheduled throughout the month long celebrations. 

"The renaissance of this significant Maori celebration is a great opportunity for all New Zealanders to remind ourselves of what we have achieved together and of our special place in the world," says Edmonds.
Further information:
www.tepapa.co.nz/matariki / www.taitokerau.co.nz/matariki / www.puanga.org.nz / www.matarikifestival.co.nz

SUITABLE ITINERARIES FROM DISCOVER THE WORLD:

• Let's face it, if you're going all that way, you might aswell do as much of the country as possible. For this very reason, our North & South Island self drive itinerary (14 days) is one of our most popular and takes in all the best bits of the country including Wellington (home of Te Papa museum, focus for the above Matariki events). Prices in June start from £804 pp based on twin share (exc flights*).
• Our 15 day Simply the Best itinerary is another gem that takes-in both islands with more of the south Island's west coast, as well as visiting NZ's southernmost city, Invercargill. Prices in June start from £972 pp based on twin share (exc flights*).
• If time is short then our Northern Discovery will take you to the city at the heart of the Maori culture, Rotorua, as well as Auckland and of course the capital, Wellington, with its huge selection of cafes, bars and of course home to the National Museum, Te Papa. Prices in June start from £457 pp based on twin share (exc flights*).
  
  * Flights are not included and are available through Discover the World from around £1100 inc taxes per person with Air New Zealand. 

CONTACT DETAILS
Discover the World, recently voted NZ Travel Specialist of the year 2007 by Tourism New Zealand, offer a substantial range of New Zealand holidays, including a wide selection of self drive holidays. For enquiries, a brochure or to make a booking, please call 0870 060 3288 or visit the comprehensive website www.discover-the-world.co.uk/newzealand 

PRESS:
If you need any images or further info, then call me (Alexis) on 01737 214 294 or email alexis@discover-the-world.co.uk - thanks!!

Inspiration in one place...

Featuring arguably the greatest variety of stunning scenery and unspoilt wilderness of any European destination, Iceland has dazzling landscapes ranging from surreal to sublime.The dramatic landscapes, born from volcanic eruptions and carved out by glaciers, are made up of colours which defy description; imagine rust-red craters, cobalt-blue lakes and luminous green moss interspersed with black sandy beaches.

Find some inspiration all in one brochure (Iceland & Greenland) by clicking here

Feature ideas - Discover the World - Lapland, Iceland, Greenland and beyond...

Here are a few different story angles across a selection of our destinations. If you need images or further information then let me know (01737 214 294 / alexis@discover-the-world.co.uk):

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The Icehotel with a wildlife twist... Icehotel & Orca safari – Swedish & Norwegian Lapland (5 nights) – a short break that (probably) can’t be rivalled for sheer excitement. This escorted two-centre trip combines an amazing wildlife experience – swimming with orca whales as they feed on the shoals of herring - amidst breathtaking scenery on Norway’s stunning coastline with a stay at the Swedish Icehotel®, one of the world’s most unusual hotels. Needless to say, an array of snowy activities are available.

Prices start from £1262 per person which includes flights, accommodation and all other inclusions which can be seen on our website.

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Husky mushing in its true form (

Greenland

)

With departures between March & April 2007, the chance to learn about a way of life unique to the Arctic region is what our Greenland Husky Safari is all about. Explore the frozen wilderness of East Greenland by husky sledge and visit a traditional Greenlandic community amongst other activities on this 5, 6 or 9 night adventure that includes at least 1 night in Iceland’s capital Reykjavik at either end of the trip.

Prices start from £1214 per person based on 2 sharing and includes flights, accommodation and husky sledge tours as described in the itinerary and all other inclusions which can be seen on our website.

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Pure nature and total indulgence

Aurora spa break – Finnish Lapland (4 nights) - The fell area of northern Finland with its never ending pristine and glittering landscape, is perfect for all types of adventure (including husky sledging and snowmobiling) for the boys, whilst the ladies can pamper themselves with two superb spa treatments, leaving everyone involved exhilarated and/or relaxed. A taste of

Lapland

quite unlike anything else in our brochure...

Prices start from £1038 per person based on 2 people sharing and full board basis (drinks not included) and include flights, two spa treatments and other activities which can be seen on our website.

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Pristine snow cloaked log cabins (as well as huge amounts of adventure!)

Kakslauttanen Cabins and igloos – Finnish Lapland (3 nights) - Authentic Finnish log cabins with their own private sauna, ice igloos, glass igloos, northern lights (possibly!), pristine snow-cloaked forests...the list of unique attractions goes on!

In addition to the numerous excursions (reindeer sledging, husky sledging, snowmobiling, cross country skiing, etc), this short 3 night break is an ideal surprise getaway, romantic escape or even a family break. This is an unforgettable long weekend with a choice of accommodation – various log  cabins, glass igloos or ice rooms

Prices start from £695 including flights, accommodation and other inclusions which can be seen on our website.

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Romance is in the (purest) air (in the world):

A new break for the winter time and a perfect break for the festive and/or valentine romantics, our Iceland based Romantic Winter Retreat self drive visits Reykjavik as well as the stunning Hotel Budir, located on the beautiful Snaefellsness peninsula in Iceland’s west. The 5-night holiday finds just the right balance between long cosy nights spent in romantic hotels and days out exploring

Iceland

’s spectacular and peaceful countryside.

Prices start from £552 per person including flights, accommodation, car hire and other inclusions which can be seen on our website.

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thanks and happy christmas!

Alaska food and drink - the best food and drink in downtown Anchorage!

We offer one of the UK's most comprehensive Alaska holiday programmes of any UK operator according to Tourism Alaska and with it we like to give our clients just that little bit of insight to help ensure their holiday goes off to a Tee.

After a delay due to various factors, our man in Alaska - David Howe - is back on track with a plethora of recommendations for anyone visiting the state. In his first return instalment, the setting is Anchorage and he goes into crucial detail about the essential component of any holiday - food and drink.

All the details are available on Discover the World's Alaska Blog - www.alaskablog.co.uk

We offer a great selection of holidays in the 49th State including fly-drives, bear watching, small vessel cruising and motor, coach & rail experiences. Prices start from approximately £500 per person excluding flights which can of course be booked through us from approximately £800 per person. For more information on our web-based Alaska programme, please visit www.discover-the-world.co.uk/alaska.

Thanks. Alexis

Iceland Round Ups by horse - riding at its best!

Well, it's that time of the year where the most trustworthy of steeds - the Iceland horse - is once again called upon to do what it does best.

The annual Iceland Horse Round Up is testament to the breed's incredible competence amongst some of the most dramatic and energy-sapping landscapes in Europe. With droves of horses being herded down from their summer pastures in Iceland's northern highlands, the corrals await, where icelandic farmers jump at the chance to ourtbid one another for the finest animals amongst the herd.

And this is no small herd - those participating in Discover the World's Horse round up - www.discover-the-world.co.uk/horseriding - will ride alongside, behind and in-front of a herd of upto 2500 icelandic horses and foals. A magnificent sight and one I can confirm is unlike any other. I took part last year and will never forget it!

It was unlike anything I have experienced in all my riding years and is guranteed to thoroughly impress.

Never mind that pre-conception that Icelandic horses are short and can be called - heaven forbid - ponies. They are hardy, obedient and tough as nails. Where british riding consists of a 30 metre trot every so often, 'Icelandics' have the potential to keep going until they die of exhaustion. Of course, our tours won't push these superb animals that far, but it just shows how tough they are in any conditions.

We (Discover the World) offer the most comprehensive Iceland riding holidays to the UK market - with the close support of our reputable supplier Ishestar - including both the Horse Round Up in early October and the Sheep Round Up that departs in 8 days time (12th September).

If you think your readers will be intersted in these these stunning and 100% unique rides, then give me a call - 01737 214 214 - for details and images. If you would like our Riding in Iceland brochure then let me know.

Thanks and kind regards. Alexis.