Lae Disney Travel Agents Near Me

Overview

Introduction

Blaenau Ffestiniog, Wales, is in the heart of Snowdonia National Park (though not part of the park itself, as industrial heritage wasn't valued when it was established).

This small slate-mining town, 160 mi/257 km north of Cardiff, lies near another miner—but not minor—attraction: Llechwedd Slate Caverns, a former slate mine with an underground tramway that takes visitors deep beneath the surface to the slate caverns.

Topside is a preserved Victorian mining village, complete with sweets shop and pub, that gives you an idea of what life was like for slate miners in Victorian times. The biggest appeal of this town is that it lies at the head of the 13-mi/21-km Ffestiniog Railway, probably the most spectacular narrow-gauge line in Wales. The line runs to Porthmadog on the coast.

Another attraction is the pumped-storage power station, just outside of town. Though this may not sound like much, it's worth a look—the electrical plant has unique power-generating water pumps (there are guided tours, but book in advance).

Overview

Introduction

Blaenavon, Wales, is located just on the edge of Brecon Beacons National Park and 28 mi/45 km northeast of Cardiff. Blaenavon is an industrial town and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is also the terminus of the Pontypool-to-Blaenavon Railway, which is traveled by steam locomotives.

You can also visit the remains of an early industrial ironworks—one of the best-preserved 18th-century ironworks in Europe—and the Big Pit Mining Museum on the outskirts of town, which offers underground tours guided by former miners. The tours descend nearly 300 ft/90 m to the old coal seams below. The town also has many bookshops to explore.

Overview

Introduction

Lae, on the Bismarck Sea, is larger and more commercial than the better-known Madang. It merits a one-night stay to see the spectacular botanical gardens—allow several hours to see indigenous Papua New Guinea plants and the adjoining War Memorial Cemetery, final resting place of nearly 3,000 Allied soldiers. Lush tropical vines and trees invade every unweeded space in Lae. Skip the lookout on Mt. Lunaman—it's controlled by "rascals," (youth gangs) and the views aren't worth the risks involved. Day trips can be taken to the mountain towns of Bulolo and Wau. Other trips include a boat ride to Bosama or a visit to the beautiful Markham Valley. Adventurous travelers may want to take the (often rough) bus ride to Goroka, which passes through some splendid mountain scenery (it takes a full day). Another interesting bus ride goes to Madang. 200 mi/320 km north of Port Moresby.

Note: Crime is a serious problem in Lae. Heed the advice of local residents, travel in a group and make sure not to wander around at night.

Overview

Introduction

Located 80 mi/125 km south of Bangkok, Laem Chabang is Thailand's largest and busiest industrial port, handling millions of tons of cargo each year. Chances are good that anything coming or going from Thailand by sea, including a growing number of cruise ships, will pass through Laem Chabang.

There isn't much to see or do at the cruise terminal or the immediate vicinity, which is very industrial. As such, most passengers head directly to Bangkok; air-conditioned buses are usually provided by cruise companies. If you prefer to go it alone, taxis or car services are readily available.

Those wary of making the two-hour journey, which can be a long day trip and an honest nightmare in traffic, might enjoy the nearby beach resort of Pattaya, 15 mi/24 km south. Golfers may prefer to visit the Laem Chabang International Country Club, a lush, first-class golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus. Phone 03-837-2273. http://www.laemchabanggolf.com.

If your cruise is embarking from Laem Chabang, you may wish to fly into Bangkok a few days earlier to explore the capital. Taxis, cars and buses between Bangkok and Laem Chabang can be easily arranged. The drive should takes around two hours, but allow plenty of extra time for traffic.

Location

Laem Chabang is Thailand's busiest commercial port. There is not much for tourists to see or do in the immediate area. Bangkok is the main attraction, but it is at least two hours away by car. Pattaya, a popular beach resort, is an hour away from the port.

Most cruise ships will offer a transfer package to Bangkok and/or Pattaya, but for those that don't, you can hire a metered taxi or arrange for a private car in advance.

Overview

Introduction

Overview

Introduction