Parade participants in colorful costumes

From March 16th until March 19th, the St. Patrick’s Festival in Dublin will be in full swing. Each day offers an opportunity to act like a kid again at the funfair. The colorful Ferris wheels, musical carousels, and death defying roller coaster all light up as the sun goes down. If you are traveling with children, this is guaranteed to delight them.

You won’t even have to leave the wee ones at home when the clock strikes noon as the streets with be a-flowin’ with real Irish brew. The daily Irish Craft Beer portion of the festival offers a variety of children’s workshops, complete with face painting! On Friday the Beer event will host “Brewing in the Times of St. Patrick,” which takes a look at the history of beer throughout Ireland.

Friday also brings the Festival Ceili. Participate, or just sit back and enjoy the display of traditional Irish dance. After you have boogied all you can boogie, laugh the rest of the evening away at the kick off of Father Ted Weekend. On both Friday and Saturday evenings, the cast of the show Father Ted will be performing for your pleasure.

A local gets into the spirit

If you are still in Dublin on Sunday, you will want to attend the Big Day Out in Merrion Square. This carnival is bursting with live music, street performers, theatrical productions and much more. You can even attend a workshop where you will learn to speak Gaelic! Sunday is also when the St. Patrick’s 5km Road Race takes place. If you are a runner, consider participating. All of the proceeds raised benefit Our Lady’s Children Hospital. End the evening with a performance by the Sir James Galway National Symphony Orchestra.

The festivities wrap up on Monday. The day kicks off with the Dublin University Boat Races, followed by a city wide treasure hunt. Have another go-round at the fun fair and sample a few more local brews before the St. Patrick’s Festival comes to an end with the Russian Spectacular. Enjoy live music and folk dance and the White Russian Central Band takes the stage at the Helix.

You can stay home and experience once night of debauchery, or you can whisk away to Ireland for a four day celebration the whole family will enjoy. The choice seems clear to us!

Kemwel offers cheap car rentals in Ireland so call us or book your vehicle online today! Remember to keep an eye on our Specials! You never know what kind of deals are going to pop up!

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A monument possibly left behind by the Olmec

And speaking of enchanting, the city’s reputation proceeds it. The “Catemaco Brujos” (brujo means witch, warlock, sorcerer, healer, and so on), are known world round and draw visitors interested in magic from every corner of the globe. The region’s traditions of witchcraft are believed to date all the way back to Olmec times. The Olmec were Mexico’s first major civilization more than 2000 years ago. If your interest has been piqued, consider planning a trip for the first Friday in March (that would be March 2nd this year) for the Congreso Internacional de Brujos, a witchcraft festival that has been held in the city since the 1970s.

The rainforest of Veracruz swallows ancient ruins

The festival has turned into a major tourist destination, and visitors attend for all sorts of reasons. Some wish to enhance their own practice, some are looking for healing plants from the surrounding jungle and protective talismans, while others are simply curious. You are certain to bump into all manners of traditional witch doctors, healers, and modern magic makers willing to sell you their spells and potions.

Catemaco is a gorgeous place to vacation, whether you have an interest in the occult or not. The witchcraft festival is just a little bonus. Kemwel offers cheap car rentals in Mexico, so plan your magical get away today.

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grassmarket.net

Head over to the Beehive Inn on Grassmarket where you will be introduced to Clart and McBrain, a fictional duo portrayed by actors who will serve as your guides for the evening. This highly entertaining odd couple will have you peeing your pants with laughter as they take you on a journey through more than three-hundred years of history. Not just the history of the authors who would frequent the pubs you’ll visit, but the history of Edinburgh.

Over the course of two hours, you will stop by four equally charming historic pubs, all within view of the beautiful Edinburgh Castle. This allows you the perfect opportunity to sample the local brews and sip a strong Scottish malt whiskey.

edinburghliterarypubtour.co.uk

You will learn all about Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet. The writer was at the forefront of the Romantic Movement, and you will be shocked by how erotic some of his verse was for the time. Walk in the footsteps of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, one of the greatest writers of crime fiction ever known, responsible for the ever-popular Sherlock Holmes series. Robert Louis Stevenson, author of both Treasure Island and Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, also hails from Edinburgh. McBrainn will have you in stitches with his portrayal of Dr. Jekyll’s metamorphosis into Mr. Hyde.

caferoyal.org.uk

The tour ends at the beautiful Café Royal on West Register Street. Charming both inside and out, this restaurant and pub is the perfect place for a nightcap. You have to order oysters at the bar, as they’re the Café Royal’s specialty. Wash them down with a refreshing white, red, sparkling, or rose wine.

You have to be eighteen years of age or older to participate in this tour, so if you are traveling with wee ones, you may want to find a sitter for the evening. The only problem with the tour is that the hilarity and fun makes two hours fly by far too quickly. You may find yourself showing up at the Beehive Inn the following night, so as to experience it all again!

Kemwel offers cheap car rentals in Edinburgh. Book yours today and experience the charm of Scotland’s capital.

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Valentines Day is just around the corner, and New York City is the perfect destination for a romantic get away. Remember, February in the northeast can be mighty cold, so bundle up and snuggle close to your honey as you enjoy a leisurely ride through Central Park in your own private horse-drawn carriage. Carriages are available until 2:00 am, so schedule your ride after dark to see the city all lit up for a special treat.

Another of the city’s popular romantic past times in ice skating in Rockefeller Center. You will feel as though you have stepped foot into your favorite rom-com as you hold your lover’s hand and twirl around on the ice. Tickets to the rink generally include a pass to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck, so steal a kiss after you check out the view from seventy stories up in the air.

Can you think of a more romantic day to pop the big question? Your darling is certain to say “I do” when you pull up outside of the world famous Tiffany & Co. Even if you are already married, (or not quite ready to make the leap), a trip to Tiffany’s will certainly delight your sweetheart.

When it comes to accommodations, you won’t want to settle for less than the best. Look no further than our friends at Excellent Hotels for your luxury hotel booking in New York City. And remember, Kemwel offers cheap car rentals all over the world!

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Incandescent Yolk by Christopher Stoneman. Image courtesy of http://www.kinetica-artfair.com

Art lovers and techies alike wait with baited breath for February in London when the Kinetica Art Fair returns to wow audiences. A celebration of electronic, light, science, technological, robotic and new media art, the Kinetica Art Fair is nothing short of awe-inspiring and a must see for anyone in the London area.

This year’s event takes place between February 9th and 12th and features an impressive array of work from some of the finest artists in the field. Featured exhibitor Christopher Stoneman uses light and glass to put on a beautiful and mesmerizing display, Alex Allmont’s electronic LEGO designs will delight the child in you, and Studio Roosegaarde’s Liquid Space, a jellyfish-esque device that detects and responds to your presence with lights, sound and motion, is something you cannot miss.

Empress Stah Power. Image courtesy of http://www.kinetica-artfair.com

The Fair also features a wide variety of performances, including Cirque de Soleil veteran and award winning aerial artists Empress Stah Power in a fascinating multimedia extravaganza. In addition, there will be a series of short films, light displays, sound shows, and other mixed-media performances. Don’t worry — if all of this sounds overwhelming to you, there are guided tours available that will ensure you get to experience everything.

Book your cheap car rental in London with Kemwel today and be amazed by the Kinetica Art Fair.

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The celebration begins a day early on January 21st with a Tai Chi demonstration over on Nelson Street. If you are interested in attending, the demonstration begins at 12:30pm and runs until 3:30pm and will be held outside the See Yep Chinese Association.

The real fun starts on the following day, January 22. From 11:00am until 4:00pm, Chinatown comes alive as the New Year festivities come into full swing. A traditional parade featuring giant, colorful dragons, unicorns and lions makes its way down Nelson, Berry and Great George Street, as well as through Great George Square. Nelson Street is home to the largest Chinese Arch in Europe. In fact, it is the largest Chinese Arch outside of the Chinese mainland. The Arch provides an impressive backdrop for this lively celebration.

Foodies will appreciate the Taste of China Street Market. Not only will you be able to sample authentic Chinese fair, you will have the privilege of enjoying traditional Chinese New Year delicacies. After your belly is full, ring in the new year with firecrackers and noise makers!

Book your cheap car rental in Liverpool today and get ready to usher in the Year of the Dragon!

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Photo from www.UpHellyAa.org

During the last Tuesday in January (that would be the 31st this year), Lerwick comes alive as Up Helly Aa Day comes into full swing. This festival dates all the way back to the late 1800s and is an important celebration of Shetland history. As the story tells it, the ancient Vikings would burn a galley as a sacrifice to the sun while welcoming the springtime.

This all-day event begins with a morning march through the town. The procession features Guizer Jarl and the Jarl Squad, who play the role of Vikings for the day. In the late morning, locals and visitors gather to have their pictures taken with the Jarl Squad and to mingle with family and friends. You may elect to arrive at the Esplanade early, as to beat the crowd.

Next on the agenda is a civic reception at the Town Hall. Unfortunately for some visitors, this is by invitation only. But think of it as a nice break after a busy and exciting morning. After the reception, the parade continues as the Guizer and his men lead the crowds through the town stopping to make merry at the primary school and local hospital. This is followed by a lunch that you are sure to have worked up an appetite for.

The highlight of Up Helly Aa is the torch lit procession. Almost a thousand torches are lit as participants make their way through the night to the King George V playing field where the traditional galley is set alight before partying the night away. The party begins when the local halls open and welcome the Jarl Squad, who proceed to dance with the lady of the hall. After that, the celebration spreads town wide and the sounds of music fill the air. The party is so huge and widely attended that Wednesday has been pronounced a public holiday, allowing everybody the chance to recover from the night before.

If you think you’ve got what it takes to party with the locals, book a cheap car rental in Scotland with Kemwel today!

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Each morning, a procession consisting of local men dressed in colorful, floral-printed suits parade through the streets. On the day of Candelaria, the men wear flowered crowns, and on Saint Blaise day, their hats resemble a bishop’s headwear. The group is led by the “head devil,” a position that is held for life. All of the men don giant cowbells that fill the streets with a deafening noise as they dance along. The sounds are meant to scare away any ill-wishing demons, and even the devil himself. Tradition mandates that only boys and men born in Almonacid de Marquesado are allowed to join the brotherhood and participate in the dance.

The women of the village can be found playing castanets in the streets, as well as reading poetry about the Virgin and the Saint. At the end of each parade, the town holds a giant church mass, after which the fiesta continues. The streets are filled with music as the local women entertain with traditional Spanish dances.

If you are planning a get away this winter, consider a cheap car rental in Spain from Kemwel and experience La Endiablada for yourself!

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Edinburgh, Scotland

Did you know that Auld Lang Syne was written in Scotland? Well, why not spend the New Year in Edinburgh, home to the country’s largest Hogmanay celebration? The festivities begin the night before New Year’s Eve with a torchlight procession ending in an impressive fireworks display, marking the beginning of the weekend’s celebrations. The following night offers a wide variety of concerts, street parties and games, with over 8,000 people in attendance. Traditionally, first-footing was a big part of the New Year in Scotland. After the clock strikes midnight, folks would take to the streets visiting their neighbors, offering well wishes for the upcoming year and gifting coal for warm fires or tasty little treats. Kemwel offers a wide variety of cheap car rentals in Edinburgh, so plan your trip today!

New York, New York

The most famous New Year’s celebration in the world, no one does it quite like New York City. Though the city is well known for its posh bars and swanky clubs, all of whom will be hosting exciting parties, the most popular location is outside in the cold of Times Square. Bundled up in jackets and scarves, people from all over the country convene in this spot to usher in the New Year. If you are planning on attending the ball drop, make sure you arrive early, because it gets crowded fast! Don’t forget to bring someone to kiss!

Prague, Czech Republic

The gorgeous city of Prague is home to one of the most impressive fireworks displays you are likely to ever see. This city is booming on New Year’s Eve, with parties spilling out onto the streets and good cheer abounding. The fireworks over the Charles River explode high above Prague Castle and are nothing short of magical. This is something the whole family is sure to delight in. If you want to get right in the middle of the action, you can book a ticket on one of the many party boats that will be rocking the night away on the Charles. You will want to book your cheap car rental in Prague for a few days so you can fully appreciate the city after you’ve celebrated the New Year.

Sydney, Australia

My number one reason for recommending Sydney? Summertime! New Year’s in Australia is perfect for those who want a break from the ice and snow. Kick back on the famous beaches of Sydney Harbour during the day before attending one of the many parties hosted by the bars and restaurants along the strip. You will also have your choice of cruises, whether you are looking to party hard, enjoy a fancy dinner, try your hand at ballroom dancing, or you just want a great view from the water. Be sure you grab a Vantage Point Map so you can find a good seat for the fireworks that night. Millions of people attend New Year’s Even in Sydney for a reason, and with a cheap car rental in Australia, you will see why!

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1. The Clash – London Calling

This punk rock anthem is probably the first song that springs to most people’s minds. It may not be a love song to London as much as it is a call to action, but never the less, it’s a classic.

2. Billy Joel – Vienna

I’m going to honest with you here… I don’t like Billy Joel. I know, I know. However, I am in love with this beautiful song. Is Vienna waiting for you?

3. The Beatles – Back in the USSR

Listen, Joe Strummer, just because you made the list doesn’t mean I agree with that whole “phony Beatlemania” thing.

4. They Might Be Giants – Istanbul (Not Constantinople)

If you remember the Animaniacs, than you certainly know this song! If you are looking for a cheap car rental in Turkey, make sure you look for Istanbul, not Constantinople.

5. Elton John – Mona Lisas and Madhatters

Elton John’s bittersweet tale of New York City is a beautiful classic. There are so many songs about NYC to choose from, but this is one of my all time favorites.

6. Guster – Amsterdam

This is the largest city in the Netherlands, but with a cheap car rental in Amsterdam, you won’t have to worry about getting lost.

7. Crosby, Stills & Nash– Marrakesh Express

Pick up a cheap car rental in South Africa and tour the entire continent! Head up north to Morocco and take a ride on the Marrakesh Express. All aboard the train!

8. Tom Waits – Singapore

The crew on this ship doesn’t sound too trustworthy, but Rain Dogs is one of the greatest records of all time, so I would probably follow Tom Waits to Singapore.

9. PJ Harvey – Let England Shake

Okay, so this one may not be a love letter to England either, but it’s a fantastic song off an amazing record and makes a great addition to any mix tape.

10. Moody Blues – Boulevard De La Madelaine

Ah, Paris. This romantic city often acts as a backdrop for many a broken heart. Hopefully the rest of us will have better luck on the Boulevard De La Madelaine.

11. Duran Duran – Rio

It’s starting to get mighty cold in my part of the world. A vacation to Brazil sounds like the perfect way to combat the chill!

12. Bob Dylan – Mozambique

A cheap car rental in South Africa can get you over to Mozambique. According to old Bob, the girls are very pretty here. You may fall in love with more than just the country!

13. Men at Work – Land Down Under

You will have this one stuck in your head for the rest of the day. At least I will. The Australian protagonist in this story travels all over the world, from Brussels to Bombay.

14. Willie Nelson – On The Road Again

No travel themed mixed CD is complete without this country classic. If you are going places that you’ve never been and seeing things that you may never see again, make sure you include this on your playlist.

15. Three Dog Night – Never Been to Spain

I get a lot of flack for my love of Three Dog Night, but I can’t help it. They’re awesome! If you’ve never been, book your cheap car rental in Spain today.

16. David Bowie – Life on Mars

Okay, so you can’t book a car rental on Mars, at least not yet. But Hunky Dory is one of the best albums of all time and Life on Mars is a classic.

17. Adam and the Ants – Young Parisians

Get a first hand look at how young Parisians live with a cheap car rental in Paris. Don’t forget to add this fun little ditty to your playlist.

18. Billy Bragg and Wilco – California Stars

This beautiful interpretation of Woody Guthrie’s unrecorded California Stars is sure to have you dreaming of the west coast.

19. Talking Heads – Road to Nowhere

Little Monsters, anyone? The Talking Heads had a city in mind, a so-called paradise. What is your idea of Paradise? A Tuscan summer? Or maybe spring break in Cancun?

20. Roger Miller – King of the Road

This trek around the world will have you feeling like the King of the Road in no time. Pop this free-wheeling classic on your iPod, sit back, and enjoy the trip.

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