Spend a Magnificent Day in Venice Courtesy of The BAUERs Hotel

bauer il palazzo hotel venice - italy
The BAUERs Hotel

Love is always in the air in the romantic city of Venice, Italy and Venice also offers an impressive lineup of amazing cultural events.

If you are planning a trip to Venice, Italy – there is no better place to stay than The BAUERs Hotel. The luxury Italian hotel is located in the heart of Venice, just two minutes walking distance from historic St. Mark’s Square. This is definitely the ideal spot to experience this magnificent city in all aspects plus discover its culture and beauty.

The BAUERs can provide for all their guests’ needs, from museum visits to nightly entertainment. The hotel is also complete with its own water taxi dock to ensure that guests travel through the famous canals of Venice is simple an hassle-free.

Venice Italy - romantic gondola canal ride

The first thing to do to begin your day with a Venetian sunrise and a delicious gourmet breakfast served at the “Settimo Cielo” restaurant located on the terrace of The BAUERs Il Palazzo, the highest in all of Venice. From this truly magnificent viewpoint, you will observe the sun lift over the ancient buildings, the basin of San Marco, the spectacular white dome of Santa Maria Della Salute, and the world famous Grand Canal.

After breakfast, enjoy one of the several cultural things available for this autumn day in Venice. For art lovers, Museo Correr will house a monographic exhibition dedicated to Francesco Guardi, the last great landscape artist of the 18th century. The experience will not stop at the museum though – The BAUERs can in fact provide private tours of the locations that inspired the exhibit.

The rest of the afternoon could be spent discovering more about Italian artists at the Biennale’s new Padiglione Italia, a unique location that overlooks the Gaggiandre and the 16th century Tese on one side and the Giardino della Vergini on the other. After an entire day of walking, guests of The BAUERs can relax at Il Palladio Hotel Spa, on Giudecca Island. Here it’s possible to enjoy different treatments, such as a soothing Venetian bath with milk and roses.

At night, Venice would not be the same without a romantic candlelight dinner in The BAUERs gourmet restaurant De Pisis. Among the signature dishes served at De Pisis, is the Risotto with carrot juice, oranges and chicory sprouts as a favorite.

Guests can also enjoy a great tasting cocktail and after dinner drinks at the luxury hotel’s intimate Bar. Here it is possible to taste barman Gennario Forio’s new autumn cocktail – Sensation. The cocktail is red like Christmas time and sparkly like New Year delicious champagne. The ingredients are all mixed up with a selection of shakers coming from all over the world from the 1930’s to the latest styles.

There is no better day to end your memorable day in Venice., Italy

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    “The Gathering” is Ireland’s Yearlong Celebration of Culture and Tradition

    Cliffs of Moher - Ireland
    Cliffs of Moher

    “The Gathering” is Ireland’s yearlong celebration of the incredible Emerald Isle. It showcases the unique culture and long standing tradition of Ireland.

    To experience the best of Irish arts, culture and fun, consider enjoying the country’s major festivals and clan gatherings. The “The Gathering” started with unforgettable New Year’s Eve bash in Dublin.

    There are over 70 million people around the world that claim Irish ancestry, so now you can join the celebration with Trafalgar, the Insider of guided vacations, as they offer 9 trips heading to the culture-rich Emerald Isle.

    Below are several amazing trip options to fully enjoy “The Gathering” celebration in Ireland:

    Best of Ireland
    An 11-day journey to the most interesting and picturesque parts of the country, Trafalgar’s Best of Ireland trip is a comfortably-paced vacation starting and ending in Dublin. The trip makes overnight stops in Sligo, Limerick, Killarney and Cork, as well as day stops in Blarney, Kilkenny, Galway and the Cliffs of Moher to name a few. Following a Welcome Reception with a traditional Irish meal and drinks in a pub, guests spent the next day seeing the sights in Dublin and visiting the Guinness Storehouse for an included tour of the famous brewery before exploring the city on their own. On the journey to Cork, guests stop at the Irish National Stud farm, dedicated to rearing world-class thoroughbreds. It’s all sightseeing and marveling in the beauty of the Emerald Isle for the next few days, spending two nights in Killarney and two in Sligo before heading back to Dublin for a Farewell Dinner with wine at a local restaurant with fellow travelers.

    Scenic Ireland
    The 9-day Scenic Ireland was introduced in 2012 as a new At Leisure itinerary, quickly becoming a popular choice for travellers. With a focus on taking clients to the most picturesque parts of the country, Scenic Ireland offers up the perfect opportunity to explore the Irish countryside at a relaxed pace. The trip starts with a few days in lively Dublin, where guests will receive a morning tour with a local guide then enjoy a day of free time to explore the city by themselves with a hop-on-hop-off sightseeing ticket. Next, a visit to Blarney Castle means guests can get the Irish gift of gab as they tilt themselves upside down to kiss the infamous Blarney Stone. At the breathtaking Dingle Peninsula, Europe’s most westerly point, Trafalgar passengers are treated to a special Be My Guest dinner on a beautiful family-owned farm, where they will dine with locals and savour traditional Irish fare. Traveling on to Killaloe on Lough Derg, clients will finish their journey with a Guinness stew and soda bread cooking demonstration, which they’ll get to enjoy afterwards.

    Irish Experience
    On the 12-day Irish Experience trip, Trafalgar guests get to see all of the Emerald Isle as they visit Northern Ireland and spend nights in Londonderry and Belfast. Beginning and ending in Dublin, the trip also
    stops at Ballina, Galway, Killarney and Waterford along the way. This itinerary is chock-full of incredible insider experiences, from a visit to the new Titanic Belfast Visitor Centre to learn about the history of the world’s most famous ship to zipping around Belfast in a Black Cab with a Local Expert ‘Cabbie’. In Waterford, clients will get an opportunity to visit the iconic House of Waterford Crystal to watch master craftsmen at work. In Dublin, a day spent sightseeing with a Local Guide is followed by an evening cruise along the city’s 200-year-old Grand Canal. Guests will also get to appreciate the country’s natural beauty with a visit to the Giant’s Causeway, an area of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns on the northern shore that has been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site and which Trafalgar is involved in the preservation of through their parent company’s Treadright Foundation.

    Please use the Contact Form below to submit your travel request. We will promptly get back to you.

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      The Ring Hotel – Casual Luxury in Vienna, Austria

      The Ring Hotel - Vienna Austria

      The luxury Ring Hotel is located in Vienna, Austria’s prestige location with a world of culture, art and shopping at your doorstep. In the heart of Vienna, The Ring Hotel offers wonderful views of the famous Ringstrasse and Vienna State Opera.

      The Ring, Vienna’s casual luxury hotel, offers guests a warm and welcoming atmosphere by blending a new and contemporary design with charming historical features. This designer boutique hotel offers the perfect balance of style along with casual ambiance.

      With a unique design experience, the 68 spacious guest rooms and elegant suites are a comfortable mix of contemporary and classical furniture complemented by innovative lighting. Many of the guest rooms reveal a fabulous view of the historic Vienna ring road – Ringstrasse.

      Drings is the Ring Hotel’s stylishly chic bar and serves a novel selection of exclusive vodka cocktails. The restaurant, At Eight, offers a concept of ‘aroma cuisine’ consisting of various tasting components finished with herbal oils.

      The Ring Hotel - Vienna - At Eight restaurant

      The Ring Hotel Day Spa is a relaxing sanctuary, comprised of breezy colors, warm woods. Your senses will be stimulated by a multitude of textures, gentle music and therapeutic lighting.

      You can choose from various treatments at the Ring Spa, which includes a fitness area and private treatment room for soothing massages. There is also a steam bath and sauna with a fantastic view overlooking Vienna.

      So if you are lucky enough to visit beautiful Vienna, stay at chicest and most modern design hotel in the city – The Ring, Vienna’s Casual Luxury Hotel.

      The Ring Hotel
      Kaerntner Ring 8
      A-1010 Vienna, Austria
      Phone: +43 1 22 1 22
      Fax: +43 1 22 1 22-900




      Prague: Picture Perfect for a Pre-Christmas Shopping Trip

      Christmas Market - Old Town Square - Prague

      Prague is a great city to visit, especially in December when the city’s famous Christmas Markets are in full swing with lights, carols and spirit!

      One of Europe’s most gorgeous cities is Prague – and no trip to Europe is complete without a visit there.

      Think cobble stone streets, great beer, gorgeous historical architecture and some of the best hotels in the Czech Republic, and you’re only just scratching the surface of this gorgeous city.

      Winter (or more specifically, December) is an excellent time to visit Prague because of the wonderful Christmas Markets hel there. The entire city center of Prague glows with Christmas lights and decorations. The Christmas Markets run daily during December in the Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square, Havelske Trziste and Namesti Republiky.

      Grab a cup of hot wine and spend some time outdoors shopping for gifts at the wooden stalls set up in the squares, enjoy the carols and feel the Christmas spirit!

      And, of course, there’s more to Prague than excellent Christmas shopping (although, that is a good reason to visit Prague in December). There are loads of beautiful sites that are perfect all year round.

      The Prague Astronomical Clock, found on the southern wall of the Old Town City Hall is a must see (it’s so beautiful that it’s rumored that the government purposely gouged out the clockmaker’s eyes so he couldn’t construct a similar clock for any other country)!

      Right out of a fairy tale (and home of the Czech Crown Jewels) is the Prague Castle, which is one of the biggest castles in the world. It overlooks the Vltava River and gives visitors an excellent view of the area.

      And, you will definitely want to take a stroll across the Charles Bridge, and visit the Old Town Bridge Tower, which is a gothic tower constructed in the 1300’s. This is where you can get the best views of the old town and the river.

      For travelers looking for the best in accommodation, there are a few great luxury hotels in Prague, and visitors to the city definitely have their choice in both modern and historical types of places to stay!

      Mandarin Oriental Prague.

      The Mandarin Oriental Prague is a romantic boutique hotel on the left bank of the Vltava River. Set within a carefully restored 14th Century monastery, all of the rooms and suites here are individually designed, and guests get excellent views of some of Prague’s most scenic streets from here.

      Kempinski Hybernska Prague

      Kempinsky Hybernska Prague is another good choice. This hotel is located right in the heart of the city and has maintained the original façade of the building, while totally modernizing the interior. Lovers of “old meets new” will really enjoy this boutique hotel. Most rooms here feature a separate bedroom and living area which is especially convenient if you plan on entertaining any friends during your stay.

      Hotel Yasmin Prague

      And, for lovers of modern design, no trip to Prague is complete without a stay at Hotel Yasmin, which is conveniently located just around the corner from the Wenceslas Square. This particular hotel is really close to the markets, sites and tourist attractions in the city, which makes it a good base for sightseers.




      Enjoy the Holidays at the Romeo Hotel in Naples

      Romeo Hotel - Naples

      Romeo Hotel in Naples, Italy has crafted the perfect present for travelers still seeking to jet away for the holidays.

      Capitalizing on the city’s boisterous festive atmosphere, the Romeo Hotel is now offering L’incanto del Natale a Napoli (The Enchantment of Christmas in Naples) package to immerse guests in long-standing Neapolitan holiday traditions.

      Days can be spent browsing the Naples market stalls on Via San Gregorio Armeno to find the perfect handmade-stocking stuffer or a one-of-a-kind nativity crib.

      At night, get the chance to indulge in another Napoli pastime – feasting on festive fare.

      The Enchantment of Christmas in Naples at Romeo Hotel includes:

      * Round-trip transfers from the hotel to Via San Gregorio Armeno
      * Gourmet dinner in the hotel’s roof-top, fine-dining restaurant Il Comandante, which offers indigenous Naples ingredients served in surprising ways
      * Classic Italian breakfast buffet daily featuring fresh melon, cured meats, cheese and assorted pastries
      * Neapolitan holiday themed welcome amenity upon arrival
      * 2 nights accommodations

      The Romeo Hotel was designed to reflect the new face of Naples by architects Kenzo Tange Associates, the eighty-three room Design Hotel is literally a work of art.

      Romeo Hotel offers guests an experience of the dual personalities of its home as both a historic city and lively commercial center through its decor. From classic Neapolitan fare in Il Comandante to both traditional and Italian-inspired Japanese sushi in Zero Sushi Bar, dining at Romeo Hotel is an international affair, while the Cigar Room and Cristallo Bar provide social spaces for mingling and cocktails.

      Offering a place to escape the hectic pace of Naples, the hotel also features a roof-top 7,500 square-foot Daniela Steiner Spa, fitness center and pool offering uninterrupted views of Mt. Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples.

      Please use the Contact Form below to submit your travel request and book a reservation at the Romeo Hotel in Naples. We will promptly get back to you.

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        Holiday Tollwood Festival – Munich, Germany

        Tollwood Festival Munich Germany
        Tollwood Festival

        The traditional Christmas holiday Tollwood Festival is held in Munich, Germany from November 27th – December 31st 2012.

        This popular Christmas market event is just a few U-Bahn stops from Marienplatz, here you’ll find live music, performing arts, and handicrafts from around the world.

        This wonderful tent spectacle at the Theresienwiese (winter) or Olympiapark (summer) offers an exciting mix of international musicians and drama groups, performances and live music. Theresienwiese is where the amazing Oktoberfest beer festival occurs.

        Art and culture as well as the popular market of Ideas with handicrafts and cuisine from all over the world turn a visit to Tollwood into a very special experience.

        Visiting Germany anytime of the year is a wonderful luxury travel experience. There is so much to see and do traveling throughout this Western European country. The Life of Luxury can help you plan and book your trip. We can offer great pricing and VIP experiences that will create memories that will last a lifetime.




        Swissôtel Changsha Luxury Hotel in China

        Swissotel Changsha luxury hotel - China
        Swissotel Changsha

        A new luxury hotel joins the impressive portfolio of Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts. This one is in China. Swissôtel Changsha will be part of a mixed-use development that will feature a Grade A office tower. The luxury hotel is planned to open in 2014.

        The Chinese city of Changsha is the capital of Hunan Province and the transportation hub in south-central China.

        Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts is an international hotel group providing luxury hotels with accommodations targeted the high end of the worldwide hotel industry.

        The Swissôtel Changsha hotel is a continuation of the expansion in China for Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts. The impressive Swissôtel Changsha will feature 400 luxurious rooms and suites, each with a minimum room size of 40m2. In addition, hotel guests can enjoy five restaurants and bars, over 2000m2 of meeting and banqueting space, plus recreational facilities including a Pürovel Spa.

        President of Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts – Meinhard Huck was quoted, “Changsha is one of the most important economic centres in the country, and as the ‘entertainment capital of China’ it is a year-round attraction for visitors. Swissôtel Changsha is another important step in our expansion in China, where we already manage several five-star hotels, and it is significant for the growth of our brand recognition in Asia.”

        The China district has become well-known for its natural environment and also an important cultural spot. Due to these attributes, the area is thriving as an affluent residential area in Changsha.




        My Luxury Auctions – Bid on Amazing Luxury Products at a Fraction of the Cost

        My Luxury Auctions
        My Luxury Auctions

        How would you like to enjoy an incredible 4 day – 3 night getaway for 2 people and attend the 2013 55th Annual Grammy Awards? Of course you’d love to, but what if it didn’t cost you anything to win the auction. Even better, right? Now read on and make your dream a reality.

        My Luxury Auctions “MyLuxuryAuctions.com” helps everyday people achieve uncommon prestige and gives anyone a wonderful opportunity to own and experience everything that is luxury – luxury vacations, cruises, jewelry, cars, yachts, real estate and much more! The thrill of online bidding is truly an adrenalin rush – become part of this exciting trend.

        The Life of Luxury (https://www.thelifeofluxury.com) has partnered with My Luxury Auctions to create and provide an array of luxury products and travel packages to auction off. The first package (valued at $12,000) we offered is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to attend the 55th Annual Grammy Music Awards scheduled for Feb. 10, 2013 in Los Angeles, California.

        Grammy Music Awards

        If you are the auction winner, two people will fly to Los Angeles, California on Friday then spend Saturday exploring the city’s  popular local landmarks and luxury stores. On Sunday, you’ll attend the Grammys then fly home on Monday. This amazing luxury auction travel package includes all airfare (first class) and hotel accommodations (five star or greater.)

        As a leading provider of VIP Event Tickets, The Life of Luxury is very excited to partner with My Luxury Auctions and provide the best life has to offer.


        VIP Event and award show Tickets

        With an ambitious goal of becoming the world’s best online penny auction service for luxury products, MyLuxuryAuctions.com offers people a chance to experience uncommon prestige.

        I asked Jason Mottley from My Luxury Auctions what was the driving force behind the company’s concept?

        A: “We realized there was an untapped market for a quality online venue which could hold high-end luxury auctions and most importantly – give back to the community through charitable donations.

        Of course everybody is familiar with eBay but is not built for the luxury market. A lot more finesse and care is required with selling luxury items or assets that can be valued sometimes into the tens of millions of dollars.”

        Auction sites like My Luxury Auctions provide numerous advantages over traditional auctions. Discover that many luxury items may be obtained at a fraction of their regular cost. By simply visiting, you’ll get an opportunity to bid and win a luxury product or vacation package for a whole lot less … literally pennies on the dollar.

        Jason Mottley was asked about the large amount of interest and media coverage My Luxury Auctions has received so far?

        A: “We’re not really surprised at all. We saw the need for such a niche. By creating this auction venue, we created a single place on the web to buy the best luxury products available. This levels the playing field the field by making luxury items within reach of almost anyone.

        What we’re most proud of is the winning auction bid becomes our Auction Donation Value. MyLuxuryAuctions.com will donate this closing value of the auction price to one of five charities the winning bidder selects, including: American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, Promise House and Loving My Neighbor.”

        To begin, the process is quite simple. All you’ll need to get started is purchase your credits in advance then start bidding on any luxury item you like. Access high-end luxury products and services at extremely low prices.

        tropical maui hawaii beach

        Looking for a memorable tropical vacation? There are currently several terrific luxury vacation getaways available including a 9 day trip to Hawaii for 4 people. Begin by visiting The Big Island and Maui, then end up on the capital island of Oahu. Looking for a romantic getaway for 2, then you’re in luck. Enjoy time on the lush, Garden Island of Kauai, the tranquility of Lanai, then finish up by experiencing the true Hawaiian culture on magical Molokai.

        If you have always wanted to own a luxury boat, then take a look at a 2009 Supra Sunsport 24V. This incredible red craft measures 24 feet long, and offers a 340 Hp engine. The boat holds up to 16 people and is loaded to ensure a fun-filled afternoon on the lake. If purchased new, this luxury boat would retail at around $80,000. Bid now and can you can end up winning it for just pennies on the dollar.

        Don’t worry about getting a sub-par trip. Each vacation package offered is booked using only first class travel and the best accommodations. In addition, the winner will also receive a pre-paid debit card valued at thousands of dollars of instant cash available to spend as you wish!  This offering is an unheard of value-added reward.

        Keep a look out for many other luxury products such as fine watches, jewelry, high fashion, vacation getaways, shopping experiences, and much more!

        You’ll receive A+ service throughout the auction process. One of their Destination Experts will help the winner customize their vacation experience.

        So what are you waiting for!  Please visit http://MyLuxuryAuctions.com and start bidding!




        The Lodge at Verbier – Rent Sir Richard Branson’s Privately Owned Ski Chalet

        The Lodge in Verbier - Switzerland by Sir Richard Branson
        The Lodge in Verbier

        The Lodge at Verbier in Switzerland is one of the few ski-in locations in the town of Verbier.

        The Lodge is a privately owned ski chalet that is owned by Sir Richard Branson. This luxury lodge opened back in January of 2008 and has been a popular Swiss winter destination.

        Now you have your chance to rent individual rooms at The Lodge this winter. The Lodge at Verbier is typically only takes reservations up to 18 guests at a time.

        To start off the upcoming 2012-13 ski season, individual rooms can now be booked beginning December 9th. The luxurious The Lodge offers nine incredible rooms and suites in addition to a bunkroom that can accommodate up to 6 kids.

        Privacy is a nice touch as the lodge is located on a quiet road surrounded by Swiss Alp forest, but close to the ski slopes.

        The Lodge in Verbier is part of Sir Richard Branson’s privately owned hotel collection – Virgin Limited Edition – consisting of many award-winning luxury retreats.

        Verbier Switzerland

        The Lodge’s luxury amenities abound, as the Virgin Limited Edition sophistication influence is evident.

        Escape the cold weather and swim in the luxury ski lodge’s indoor heated pool, or you can warm yourself up in the stylish indoor or outdoor Jacuzzis. The Lodge also offers fine dining offering both Swiss and international cuisine. Choose from a delicious menu or allow the talented chef to create a delicacy. The lodge’s wine cellar has a terrific selection of great tasting red and white wines.

        The Lodge in Verbier jacuzzi
        The Lodge in Verbier jacuzzi

        Individual rooms at this Swiss mountain retreat can be booked for stays of 3, 4 or 7 nights between December 9th and the 16th, 2012.* Lodge rates begin at CHF 4,200 (£2,752/$4,340**) per room for a 3 night stay and based on shared double occupancy.

        Your packages includes your luxury accommodations, plus breakfast, afternoon tea and dinner. A light lunch is also served during winter for those lodge guests who do not eat on the mountain. Enjoy unlimited drinks including premium branded spirits, wine, beer and house champagne. Guests can also enjoy 24 hour driver service within the town of Verbier.

        To learn more about The Lodge at Verbier or to book a reservation, please use the Contact Form below to submit your travel request.

          For serious inquiries about "The Life of Luxury" or any of our services please contact a concierge representative. Please provide a few details about your request, including your contact information. One of our concierge specialists will contact you as soon as possible.

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          Exciting New Rhine-Rhone River Cruise from Scenic Cruises

          Rhine River cruise
          Rhine River

          Scenic Cruises is part of Scenic Tours, which provides its clients award-winning, all-inclusive escorted tours in Europe, New Zealand, Australia, and other popular destinations.

          An exciting new cruise has been added to the Scenic Cruises “France River Cruising” program for 2013 – an incredible 14-night cruise from Amsterdam to Nice. This sailing combines the popular seven-night Amsterdam-to-Basel cruise followed by a new seven-night Chalon-sur-Saône-to-Arles cruise.

          This is an amazing opportunity to discover the treasures of France, in addition to Germany. Cruise highlights includes – dinner in the home of a local French family near Tournon, learning about their everyday life and foods; a visit with local vintner and wine tasting in the Beaujolais village of Oignt; taking electric-assist bicycles out for a spin on the well-developed paths along the Rhine River near Koblenz; and visiting the Hockenheim Formula 1 track, including entry to the museum and an insider tour of the circuit.

          The European cruise itinerary begins with one night in the canal city of Amsterdam prior to setting sail along the scenic Rhine River, which is about 600-kilometer in length. Cruise passengers end the Rhine portion in the beautiful Swiss city of Basel. Also enjoy the local charm and beauty of historic Cologne; the 2,000-year-old city of Koblenz; romantic Rüdesheim, the “city of the squares’; Mannheim; and Breisach, the German town with the Celtic name that translates into “breakwater.”

          Numerous shore excursions include Cologne’s historic section; Germany’s most beautiful medieval castle, Burg Eltz; and Siegfrieds Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum in Rudesheim, including guided tours of many of the museum’s treasured rooms.

          Cruise prices for trip departures in either March, April and September range from $6,290 to $10,140 per person, double including free flights to Europe for guests booking standard staterooms (D&E category) if booked by Sept. 30, 2012.

          Scenic Tours also offers three extended versions with you wan to take more time to enjoy Europe: a 20-night version, adding three nights in Paris and three in Monaco’s glamorous Monte Carlo – which includes visits to Cannes and Nice (starting at $9,930); 18 nights, from Paris to Nice (fare starting at $8,285); and 18 nights, from Amsterdam to Monte Carlo (priced from $7,935).

          Please contact us to learn more or book your cruise:

            For serious inquiries about "The Life of Luxury" or any of our services please contact a concierge representative. Please provide a few details about your request, including your contact information. One of our concierge specialists will contact you as soon as possible.

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            London 2012 Summer Olympic Games – Historical Opening Ceremony

            London 2012 Summer Olympics - Opening ceremony Olympic rings
            Getty Images – AP Photo

            As the 30th Olympiad is finally here, London, England is the host country for third time in history – a record (1908, 1948 and now in 2012).

            It would be almost impossible to surpass the impressive Opening Ceremony 4 years ago in Beijing, China, but London made its statement.

            The London 2012 Olympic Games opening ceremony was themed around the theme of the “Isle of Wonders.” The phrase reference from Caliban’s speech in the William Shakespeare classic play “The Tempest.”

            The opening ceremony began with an uplifting flyover of roaring fighter jets leaving behind a trail of red, white and blue smoke. The sold-out Olympic stadium of 80,000 people loudly applauded.

            This colorful Olympic ceremony was created and directed by Danny Boyle, who is widely known as director of the hit movie Slumdog Millionaire. Boyle’s vision was to share with the world a glimpse of Britain’s history.

            As the opening ceremony began, groups of children positioned around the stadium floor popped balloons with each number, counting down from 10 to 1.

            Popular local Bradley Wiggins, who just won the 2012 Tour de France bicycle race was shown, waving to the massive audience.

            The U.K.’s pastoral landscape of grass, hedgerows and farm made way to an impressive transition to the Industrial Revolution. The 18th and 19th centuries were a defining time in Britain’s history and basis for the its powerful empire.

            London 2012 Summer Olympics - Opening ceremony Industrial Revolution
            Getty Images – AP Photo

            The stadium turned into an impress array of towering smoke stacks that rose from the ground, machinery and hundreds of workers, representing the backbone of their labor engine.

            Boyle next changed the direction of the show by adding a blend of pop culture with pomp and circumstance. Queen Elizabeth and James Bond, played by Daniel Craig boarded a helicopter and flew over London’s popular sites and monuments, such as Big Ben and Houses of Parliament. The crowed roared as it was depicted that both the Queen and James Bond 007 jumped from high above the stadium and parachuted in.

            London 2012 Summer Olympics - Opening ceremony pop culture
            Getty Images – AP Photo

            Next was a tribute to British pop culture and its rich history of music. A series of video clips and songs from Britain’s most famous band and singers were heard including The Who, Rolling Stones, Beatles and Queen.

            The colorful parade of nations next took center stage beginning with Greece, the birthplace of the Olympics. 204 countries will be representing during the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London, featuring over 10,000 Olympic athletes with the single goal of winning a medal.

            What everybody waits for is the arrival of the Olympic flame. Who else but local, East London world soccer star David Beckham could ignite the crowd. The flame was delivered from a speedboat driven by David Beckham. The flame was passed on to Steve Redgrave who is one of Britain’s greatest Olympians of all time.

            London 2012 Summer Olympics - Opening Ceremony cauldron flame
            Getty Images – AP Photo

            The torch was then handed over to seven sports legends of the Games and then passed to seven young athletes, signifying a passing of the torch. The flames then simultaneously lit up 200 miniature torches that rose together to create a stunning cauldron in the middle of the Olympic stadium.

            London 2012 Summer Olympics - Opening Ceremony fireworks
            Getty Images – AP Photo

            An incredible fireworks display lit up the skies above London. Singing legend Sir Paul McCartney led the audience with rocking performance of Beatles hit song “Hey Jude,” as the audience sang along in unison, ending the memorable ceremony. Thank you Danny Boyle.

            London 2012 Summer Olympics - Opening Ceremony Paul McCartney concert
            Getty Images – AP Photo

            Now … Let the London 2012 Olympic Games begin!