Finland] is The Safest Destination Globally - World Economic Forum Travel & Tour Tourism Competitiveness Index

4/25/2017

Still looking for some summer travel inspiration?   You should put Finland on your list while the booking is good. The World Economic Forum releases the Travel & Tour Tourism Competitiveness Index, which is an in-depth analysis of tourism in countries around the world. One of its most important rankings is the safety of the countries, and Finland has topped the list this year. 

"[Finland] remains the safest destination globally, despite rising concerns in most [of] Europe, including Finland, regarding terrorism," the report reads.

The report collected data from a total of 136 countries, looking specifically at "sustainable development of the travel and tourism sector, which in turn, contributes to the development and competitiveness of a country." With terrorism woes on the rise around the globe, it’s nice to know this destination that poses little-to-no threat.

What's more, Finland has a lot to offer travelers who land on its shores. 

For instance, not long ago, its national airline, FinnAir, made it easy to book a stopover in the country for travelers flying to a variety of destinations in Europe and Asia. Travelers can spend the day in Helsinki or go farther afield to the Lapland or on a Northern Lights journey. 

In fact, for those who are looking to chase the Northern Lights, it’s not just a winter thing in Finland: The lights are viewable on more than 200 nights per year in the country.

Other reasons to visit Finland: 39 stunning national parks, designers such as Marimekko, a “wild” food culture, clean air, warm locals, a calendar chock full of events and more.

If you aren’t sold yet, let the country’s sauna culture further woo you with the promise of ultimate relaxation.

Take, for example, the newly renovated Allas Sea Pool, which just rejoined the Finnish sauna scene. Without even leaving the capital city of Helsinki, guests are immersed in this Finnish tradition. The complex combines swimming, sauna, urban culture and tradition while revitalizing the sauna ritual year-round for visitors and locals alike. Read more...

St. Augustine Tops MONEY's 'Best in Travel' List

Enjoying an out-of-town vacation in 2017 doesn’t necessarily have to cost an arm and a leg. In fact, says MONEY magazine, there are plenty of destinations that marry quality, cost and value for a “terrific travel experience.’

St. Augustine, Florida

Take St. Augustine, Florida, MONEY’s top domestic pick in its annual “Best in Travel” survey. A week-long trip for two in America’s oldest city, including airfare, will cost around $2,507.

“Relative to other Florida Atlantic beach destinations, St.Augustine is a bargain,” said MONEY. In addition to the value it offers, the destination was cited for its beaches, golf and restaurants.

Estes Park, Colorado

In second place, MONEY picked Estes Park, Colorado. Located in the shadow the Rocky Mountains, the destination provides an “authentic” mountain adventure, and it does so to the tune of about $2,698 for a one-week vacation for two. In addition to adventure activities, the magazine recommends the city for its Rooftop Rodeo, held every July,  it says is one of the best small rodeos in America.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Lobster isn’t the only compelling reason to visit Bar Harbor, Maine. The city, which is located near Acadia National Park, is known for its scenery, its history and its wide variety of on-the-water activities. According to MONEY, a weeklong trip, including airfare, will cost about $2,914.

Fort Worth, Texas

If you’re looking to get your cowboy on, MONEY recommends Fort Worth, Texas. Daily cattle drives and live music are just some of the attractions found in the city’s Stockyard’s National Historic District or get a dose of culture at five area museums, located in The Cultural District. Or take in an opera or ballet or the symphony at Bass Performance Hall. A weeklong trip to Fort Worth will run about $2,281.

Albuquerque, New Mexico

History, culture and inexpensive dining options are part of what makes Albuquerque so compelling. More than 100 art galleries are located in the city as well as an “impressive” variety of street art. And, of course, the annual hot air balloon festival makes this a must-see city. For a week’s vacation, expect to pay $2,194.

Other domestic cities making MONEY’s best-of-list include Williamsburg, Virginia; Las Vegas, Nevada; Carmel-by-the-Sea, California; Gulf Shores, Alabama; and Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Internationally, MONEY picked Hanoi, Vietnam as its top choice. The dynamic blend of contemporary high-rises and nineteenth-century architecture helped propel Hanoi onto the top of the list. And with hotels averaging about 566 a night and mid-range meals costing less than $20 for two, the city’s value is unbeatable. An average trip for two, including airfare will cost about $2,600 in Hanoi.

Bali, Indonesia

Rates have been dropping on Bali, thanks in part to favorable exchange rates, which means hotel prices are down by 22 percent over last year. Whether you prefer a sleepy getaway or a bustling city, Bali is sure to offer something for you, including an exciting culture scene. Expect to spend about $2,579 for a trip for two.

Crete, Greece

At 3,200 square miles, there’s a lot of Crete to explore, including hundreds of attractions. In particular, outdoor activities and beachside locales are well worth the visit. Airfares have dropped in the past year, as have hotel rates, so 2017 should be the ideal time to visit. A one-week getaway for two should cost about $3,642.

MONEY’s other top international picks include Cuzco, Peru; Paris, France; and Marrakesh, Morocco.  Find destinations by searching for relevant keywords.

Valentine’s Day Romantic Gift Ideas For Celebrating Valentine’s Day and Pamper Your Loved One With a romantic Voyage Filled With Sweet Treats – OOCORP

Whether you are looking for what to gift you crush, colleague or family, you can be rest assured of finding just the perfect gift irrespective of your budget. Add a touch of spice to your Valentine this year withaffordable romantic getaways and dinner for two.  Read more...

Valentine’s Day Romantic Gift Ideas For Celebrating Valentine’s Day and Pamper Your Loved One With a romantic Voyage Filled With Sweet Treats – OOCORP

Hilton – Olayinka Oyelami Hotels

The BEST OFFERS of the moment from Hilton Hotels & Resorts! Save up to 20% at thousands of hotels worldwide, across 6 Hilton brands, when you book in advance. Plan Ahead & Book Now! Hilton – Olayinka Oyelami Hotels

Big Game Sale = Big Time Savings at Beaches Resorts

Score huge savings at Beaches Resorts and get up to 65% off and more at an all-inclusive Beaches Resort and celebrate huge savings with your family! Sale begins February 1 through February 7, 2017.Book NowDeals – Olayinka Oyelami Hotels

Travel Smarter And Save Big On New Year's Eve Hotels

If you don’t mind traveling a little for the big night, you can save a healthy sum of money by staying in alternative locations for New Year’s Eve.



That Manhattan bash you’re planning to ring in 2017 will cost you dearly in the bank account department, but it doesn’t exactly have to be that way — according to findings from Hipmunk’s Kelly Soderlund who spotted cheap alternative cities to stay this New Year’s Eve.



The concept is simple, consider digs about 30 minutes away from the center of the party and you can save a great deal, which will just go into creating a fiscally fantastic 2017.



Soderlund explains: “For instance, the median price of a Las Vegas hotel is $205, but stay close by in North Las Vegas and you can stash $100 to spend later at the blackjack table. Similarly, the median price for a New Year’s stay in Miami will set revelers back $312; Miami Springs, about a 20-minute drive from Miami proper, is $175 less pricey.”





The article is filled with examples of hot destinations that already warrant your consideration for New Year’s Eve revelry, such as Manhattan, Chicago, Las Vegas and San Francisco.



Recently, we discovered the many cities that offer a great celebration broken down into a nice little ranking thanks to WalletHub. In this case, we get some idea of how to enjoy those iconic party cities without dropping the year’s supply of disposable income.



Hipmunk looked back to last year for its prices, but it gives a semblance of how you might game the system and enjoy the greatest night of the year on relative savings.



For example, you might drop up to $714 if you want the warmth of a Santa Monica night, but take an Uber and stay in West Hollywood instead. You can enjoy a savings of about 62 percent on the hotel.



The rest of the country boasts similar deals. Forego Atlantic City for Ocean City, and you save 72 percent – representing the greatest savings along with those who choose Winter Park, Colorado, for Breckenridge.



Sure, you will have to maneuver the way with taxis, Uber or public transportation, but you will be running on the adrenaline that comes with the promise of a new year anyway. Bookk online here OOHOTELS Travel Now

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - Magical Arabian City

Abu Dhabi, rich with Islamic culture, demonstrates the true meaning of a magical Arabian city. Its exquisite architecture, turquoise waters, and timeless desert will leave you with an image strait out of a picture perfect dream. Here you can get much needed relaxation at one of its sandy beaches or take a ride on a camel in the vast desert. The picturesque attractions and the futuristic appeal of the tall mirrored buildings also contribute to the unique ambiance and adventures that Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates has to offer.

Abu Dhabi is inhabited by approximately 600,000 people. It is the located in the United Arab Emirates and it is considered to be one of the richest cities. This is because most of the city’s revenue comes from Abu Dhabi being a great oil supplier to many countries all over the world. It is not hard to grasp the culture of the city since many of the architecture and the infrastructure display the Arabian traditions proudly. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a perfect example of how the city celebrates its culture. The mosque is considered to be one of the most beautiful and most sacred buildings in the world. With the largest carpet, gold chandeliers, and marble imported from countries like Greece and Italy, its appearance demonstrates the natural yet elegant style of the city.

Whether gazing at the exotic animals at the Al Ain Zoo or shopping until you drop at one of the luxurious malls, there are a wide range of activities and attractions. At the Arabian Wild Life Park tourists can get close and personal with a hyena or a wild Arabian Oryx. You can also rent a vehicle and venture on an excursion in the desert. Belly dancing or cabaret is a unique yet exhilarating part of the nightlife. Nightclubs have sizzling dance floors and they acknowledge their multicultural audiences by showcasing themes and by playing different genres of music. There is even the local jazz club or piano bar that presents a more serene and soothing atmosphere.

The dining experience in Abu Dhabi is known to be extraordinary. Whether it’s Arabic, Persian, Thai, Indian, or Lebanese, the cuisine of the city is a pleasurable experience for all food critics. The restaurant Ushna offers a variety of international dishes, if you are lucky you may be seated facing the picturesque Grand Mosque. For a taste of Emeriti cuisine, Al Arish is popular amongst tourist and prides itself for being one of the few restaurants with its enticing menu of Arabian delicacies like Arabic coffee and sharwarma. For a unique dining adventure, Al Dhafra offers dinning while sailing the tranquil, blue waters of Abu Dhabi. Its diversity of foods will leave you speechless and your gastronomical needs will truly be satisfied.

Abu Dhabi International Airport is 18 miles from the city and it provides international flights to many major cities. Buses are available to get around Abu Dhabi. They cost 1AED (0.27 USD) per trip. Taking a bus to the neighboring city, Dubai per trip costs 15 AED (4.09 USD) or 20 AED (5.46) if you are take a luxury bus. Taxis are the most popular modes of transportation in Abu Dhabi. The least expensive fares range from 2 AED (0.55 USD) to 5 AED (1.36 USD) per trip. Newer taxis cost range from 3 AED (0.82 USD) to 10 AED (2.73 USD) per trip.

An exciting way to cool off in Abu Dhabi during the summer (June-September) is to head to Ferrari World and ride Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest rollercoaster, since temperatures can soar as high as 100°F. Just in time for the Al Ain Aerobatic show, in late November to early December, the winter (November-April) temperatures are generally cool averaging to as low as 50°F to as high as 75°F.

Learn More About Abu Dhabi:



OOHOTELS