Millions of people travel to London throughout the year either for business or for vacations. Whether you are a businessman or a leisure traveler, shopping shopping centres in London always attracts everyone and one can not stop himself/herself from buying something. Harrods is one of the most famous shopping centres in London apart from many others.
London being a tourist as well as a financial hub always sees lots of people coming here. Whether you are a business traveler or leisure traveler, shopping is always on the cards. You can opt for the world famous Harrods and can also go for the local shopping as the options are wide open.
Few of them named randomly are:
Bond Street
This is probably the best shopping street in the world. Old Bond Street and New Bond Street together make up what is called Bond Street. The shops here are said to have exclusivity. You can find many brands like Gianni Versace, Calvin Klein and others. This street is said to have the most stylish and elegant shops. This is a dream place for any shopper.
Kings Road
In 1960, this was the epicenter of fashion. The old shops have been replaced with chains but it has still got its charm. There are many boutiques, bars and restaurants where you can shop as well as enjoy a drink or two.
Brick Lane Market
Located in East London this market opens only on Sundays from early morning to 2 pm. It is famous for bric-a-brac. Here you can buy stuffs like new and vintage clothes, shoes, leather jacket etc.
Camden Market
The largest street market of the UK has many things to offer. You can have clothes, vegetarian food and many others quality products from here. This street market is spread over whole of Camden town.
Charing Cross Road
This is one place where book lovers can be seen quite in good numbers. You can have old books from here also. Don’t forget to bargain even though it may take time but in the end you will be much satisfied.
Covent Garden
This is another market in London where you will enjoy staying. It has everything that one can ask for like street entertainment, restaurants, cafes and royal opera house. Come here to shop and relax as the ambience is tension free.
Oxford Street
This is one place which is always bustling with people especially on Saturdays. Here you will find different kind of shops like sports shop, branded outlets and fashion wears. Selfridges is a departmental store which has a huge customer base and has been serving from 1909.
Regent Street
Fashionable boutiques, restaurants, international brands and many other stores can be found easily in Regent Street. The whole appearance of this street is beautiful, with the wide pavements and awesome architecture. Hamley’s, London’s largest toy shop is also present here. Shopping here can be a treat for your kids.
Piccadilly
Fortnum and Mason is the oldest and most famous shop here. It was founded by the grocer of King George III. You can also opt for two out of the league shops, the Burlington and Piccadilly. These two have product range from pen to sweaters. Here you can also see the oldest police force ‘the Burlington Beadles’.
Tottenham Court Road
This is a marketplace famous for computer and electronics related products. There are few discount shops which may be worth checking and if you are lucky then you might find a suitable one for yourself. Here you can also look out for many restaurants and bars and mind you they are pretty good in their business.
London is calling you and it is the right time as it is always to visit London. Book your London Hotels in advance!
By Mohit Jain
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Thursday, June 26, 2008
July 14th - Bastille Day Celebrations in France
Standing on the Champs-Elysses, you watch as a huge military parade marches down the road from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde. In an impressive display of national pride, you are caught up in the celebrations as the people of France observe Bastille Day! Remembering the excitement and fun you experienced the night before as fire stations all over town opened their doors, allowing for the numerous balls that are a staple of the Bastille Day festivities, you are amazed at how the citizens support this national holiday.
Led by the President of France every July 14th, the grand parade is a highlight of two days of celebrations, commemorating French Independence and the day that French citizens stormed the Bastille, sparking the French Revolution. The parade also features firefighters from all over the city, smartly dressed in their uniforms and providing another example of French pride. The parties continue throughout the day with dancing and picnics all over town and through the countryside. In the evening the sky lights up with fireworks being set off from the Eiffel Tower.
Not only do the people of Paris take great satisfaction in this annual event, but villages and towns all over France get involved in local celebrations as well. Each town commemorates the day with dances, fireworks, block parties and picnics. It is indeed a national day of celebration.
If you don't happen to be in Paris during Bastile Day, here are a few other ideas you might enjoy:
Tour De France
A fascinating side note is that the Bastille Day celebrations take place in the middle of the Tour de France race. On July 13th and 14th, the cyclists are usually riding from Pau through Hautcam. If cycling interests you, this could be an added benefit to the festivals.
Carcassone
If you are intrigued by Medieval Architecture, come to the village of Carcassone. You will still experience the national celebrations while visiting ancient structures in this picturesque town. The evening is filled with free theatre presentations as well as music throughout the village.
Visit the French Countryside
Take in the atmosphere of some of the smaller villages during the Bastille Days. You will find people in the countryside will make you feel a part of the celebrations and provide you with a more personal experience.
By C.A. Pruit
Led by the President of France every July 14th, the grand parade is a highlight of two days of celebrations, commemorating French Independence and the day that French citizens stormed the Bastille, sparking the French Revolution. The parade also features firefighters from all over the city, smartly dressed in their uniforms and providing another example of French pride. The parties continue throughout the day with dancing and picnics all over town and through the countryside. In the evening the sky lights up with fireworks being set off from the Eiffel Tower.
Not only do the people of Paris take great satisfaction in this annual event, but villages and towns all over France get involved in local celebrations as well. Each town commemorates the day with dances, fireworks, block parties and picnics. It is indeed a national day of celebration.
If you don't happen to be in Paris during Bastile Day, here are a few other ideas you might enjoy:
Tour De France
A fascinating side note is that the Bastille Day celebrations take place in the middle of the Tour de France race. On July 13th and 14th, the cyclists are usually riding from Pau through Hautcam. If cycling interests you, this could be an added benefit to the festivals.
Carcassone
If you are intrigued by Medieval Architecture, come to the village of Carcassone. You will still experience the national celebrations while visiting ancient structures in this picturesque town. The evening is filled with free theatre presentations as well as music throughout the village.
Visit the French Countryside
Take in the atmosphere of some of the smaller villages during the Bastille Days. You will find people in the countryside will make you feel a part of the celebrations and provide you with a more personal experience.
By C.A. Pruit
Monday, June 23, 2008
Hiking in Italy - Amalfi Coast
The Mediterranean Sea is waiting for you. You probably knew Italy better because of the Alps and the thousands of trekking possibilities that they offer, combined with stays within the swiss borders. That's not going to be the case, but for the ones that love hard coastal trekking routes this article can be like heaven in words.
First of all, where to start a trekking in Italy for the Amalfi Coast? A good place would be in Furore, and a good idea is to spend the first night at the restored 16th century monastery that has been converted into a cozy place where you can sleep at. Instead of being an itinerary where you will be changing from accommodation constantly, you can set this hotel as the base where all the trekking will begin from. That first day you can simply enjoy the sightseeing in this lovely Mediterranean town.
The second day of your hiking in Italy is the day to explore Ravello, musical city that is known everywhere because of the pianist and composer Wagner. This is more the kind of cultural day that you can use to explore the galleries and museums or simply enjoy the coastal lifestyle.
On day 3, a good option for your hiking in Italy is to take the famous Land's End Walk. You must take a bus that takes you to the point where this walk begins and it will guide you through amazing natural places to Punta Campanella and Baia di Larento. This itinerary covers basically the crossing from Gulf of Salerno to the Gulf of Naples. Definitely the right place for nature lovers, as coastal highlights consist basically of deep high cliffs mixed with the cultural background of the region and relaxed lifestyle.
The next day of your hiking in Italy can be used to visit the famous Ruins of Pompeii, that you can reach by train from the established departure point in Furore. A good option is to take a guided tour there and later just get relaxed and explore the region on your own.
The most famous walk of the Amalfi region keeps being the Walk of the Gods, and it is something you can't avoid doing when hiking in Italy. At same time it is possibly one of the most challenging walks you can find over there. In any case, we are not speaking of high mountains to climb, just about a more flat route to follow. That means basically that it's a matter of time simply. If you can't follow a high speed, just slow down and take it easy. Adventure travel is not there to suffer but to enjoy. Get it to adapt to your needs and you will get the most out of it.
A last walk that you could try on your day 6 is the one to Grotto Di'smeraldo. It is definitely not as aggressive as the Walk of the Gods, and in this occasion you will enjoy a region covered by vineyards and olive groves. Grotto Di'smeraldo can be described as a cave, but not any normal cave. You will surely be impressed by the colors water takes there and how it plays with the rocks. If you come prepared, even a good diving would be an exciting idea to end your trip, specially in the summer!
As the departure point is always the same, you can of course select the walks that are most interesting to you, add new ones, or simply leave some of them behind. Some travel agencies organize trips to this zone, so you just need to find a good offer and go with them. In this case, ask before which is the level of the trekking because you could be placed within a group of well-trained trekkers that will need to carry you on their shoulders in order to meet their time schedule. Just make sure you are not going to play with guys at a different level.
If you prefer better accommodation while you are there on your adventures, a good and the cheapest solution is to get free travel certificates that you can find in some places just for joining a mailing list or writing some articles. This travel certificates will save you between 80 and 90% on average in 3,4 or even 5 star hotels, so it definitely is the best deal you can ever find. From my point of view and from my experience, I always have fun when looking at the people staying at the same hotel than me that have payed 10 times more for the same room. Isn't it a nice feeling?
By Dani Alonso
First of all, where to start a trekking in Italy for the Amalfi Coast? A good place would be in Furore, and a good idea is to spend the first night at the restored 16th century monastery that has been converted into a cozy place where you can sleep at. Instead of being an itinerary where you will be changing from accommodation constantly, you can set this hotel as the base where all the trekking will begin from. That first day you can simply enjoy the sightseeing in this lovely Mediterranean town.
The second day of your hiking in Italy is the day to explore Ravello, musical city that is known everywhere because of the pianist and composer Wagner. This is more the kind of cultural day that you can use to explore the galleries and museums or simply enjoy the coastal lifestyle.
On day 3, a good option for your hiking in Italy is to take the famous Land's End Walk. You must take a bus that takes you to the point where this walk begins and it will guide you through amazing natural places to Punta Campanella and Baia di Larento. This itinerary covers basically the crossing from Gulf of Salerno to the Gulf of Naples. Definitely the right place for nature lovers, as coastal highlights consist basically of deep high cliffs mixed with the cultural background of the region and relaxed lifestyle.
The next day of your hiking in Italy can be used to visit the famous Ruins of Pompeii, that you can reach by train from the established departure point in Furore. A good option is to take a guided tour there and later just get relaxed and explore the region on your own.
The most famous walk of the Amalfi region keeps being the Walk of the Gods, and it is something you can't avoid doing when hiking in Italy. At same time it is possibly one of the most challenging walks you can find over there. In any case, we are not speaking of high mountains to climb, just about a more flat route to follow. That means basically that it's a matter of time simply. If you can't follow a high speed, just slow down and take it easy. Adventure travel is not there to suffer but to enjoy. Get it to adapt to your needs and you will get the most out of it.
A last walk that you could try on your day 6 is the one to Grotto Di'smeraldo. It is definitely not as aggressive as the Walk of the Gods, and in this occasion you will enjoy a region covered by vineyards and olive groves. Grotto Di'smeraldo can be described as a cave, but not any normal cave. You will surely be impressed by the colors water takes there and how it plays with the rocks. If you come prepared, even a good diving would be an exciting idea to end your trip, specially in the summer!
As the departure point is always the same, you can of course select the walks that are most interesting to you, add new ones, or simply leave some of them behind. Some travel agencies organize trips to this zone, so you just need to find a good offer and go with them. In this case, ask before which is the level of the trekking because you could be placed within a group of well-trained trekkers that will need to carry you on their shoulders in order to meet their time schedule. Just make sure you are not going to play with guys at a different level.
If you prefer better accommodation while you are there on your adventures, a good and the cheapest solution is to get free travel certificates that you can find in some places just for joining a mailing list or writing some articles. This travel certificates will save you between 80 and 90% on average in 3,4 or even 5 star hotels, so it definitely is the best deal you can ever find. From my point of view and from my experience, I always have fun when looking at the people staying at the same hotel than me that have payed 10 times more for the same room. Isn't it a nice feeling?
By Dani Alonso
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Cruise Ship Shopping: What the Cruise Companies Don't Tell You
Free diamond necklace! Free tanzanite earrings! Free emerald earrings! Free antique map of the Caribbean!
You will hear a lot of freebies being tossed around on a cruise ship shopping show. After five trips around the Caribbean, I decided to sit in on one of these shows. They are always lauded as the best way to "know-before-you-go" and offer coupons, discount cards and even a special cruise ship-shopping card good for all these freebies. But you know the old saying - if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.
The Benefits
If you are looking for expensive gifts, such as fine jewelry or watches, definitely attend a shopping seminar. Most cruise shopping directors will offer you manager cards. If you are looking for something specific, say tanzanite, the director can give you the business card of a jeweler who will give you the best price. Managers work on volume, salespeople work on commission.
Some cruise lines offer guaranteed buying at certain stores. This essentially means if you buy it from a recommended store and it does not hold up to expectations, the cruise ship guarantees the purchase. And because the cruise ship does not want to be liable, the stores they guarantee are usually exceptional in their merchandise and service.
If your budget is not in the fine jewelry range, the shopping maps can still be very useful. I found them to be very helpful especially as they did not just contain the recommended stores. When in ports, you usually have limited time, so it is very nice to have an accurate map to follow.
Some of the freebies are worth getting. I took my coupon guide to several stores and picked up a free tote bag, lanyard, and lithograph of the island.
The Drawbacks
The shopping show was a very lengthy presentation about fine jewelry and watches. If you are a bargain hunter, like me, these are not the best ways to discover true deals. Take the maps and coupons, but do not tie yourself to the map and "approved" locations.
As I mentioned, I did take time to find the freebies. But beyond the tote and lithograph, the free jewelry was extremely disappointing. The shopping director mentioned that if you needed great gifts or beautiful souvenirs, grab the free jewelry offered by the "approved" stores.
The one that really caught my attention was the free yellow diamond necklace. The shopping director said it was a "great little necklace." That was a huge overstatement. Reality: it was a microscopic yellow chip super glued to a small silver disc on a plastic cord. I would not wear such a thing, let alone give it as a gift! The free tanzanite earrings were also microscopic and very pale lavender colored. (When looking for tanzanite, the deeper the color purple, the more valued it is.) This continued for most of the jewelers I stopped at.
You may wonder why I complain when it is free. Normally, I would not because expectations of free "fine" jewelry would have been in check. But after attending the shopping show on the ship, expectations get high because you have a well-spoken, well-dressed shopping expert telling you how wonderful these freebies are. They are simply a way for the stores to pull you in with the free offer and try to up-sell you on their products. It is a fine marketing tactic, but be wary of it.
Once I abandoned shopping at the "approved" locations, I found true deals. Another thing you will not hear from the cruise shopping director is that the stores who are on the "approved" list are higher priced and less likely to give you deals. Little Switzerland is not on the "approved" list, but it is a fantastic jewelry store with amazing deals. We have shopped at this chain all over the Caribbean and have yet to be disappointed either in the quality of their products, their service or prices. In fact, you can find Mont Blanc pens and beautiful gemstone jewelry in their clearance cases for up to 75% off the original prices.
Another store I discovered was Boolchand in St. Maarten. They have jewelry, watches, and electronics at low prices and are willing to negotiate with you.
If you are a brand new Caribbean cruiser, you may find the shopping show can be helpful. The shopping director will certainly be able to tell you what to look for in a beautiful tanzanite, blue diamond, Caribbean amber, alexandrite, et cetera. But do not take everything as gospel. You will find most stores in the Caribbean, "approved" or not, will have good quality items (if you know what you are looking for) and will give you a good deal.
By Carol Wilkins
You will hear a lot of freebies being tossed around on a cruise ship shopping show. After five trips around the Caribbean, I decided to sit in on one of these shows. They are always lauded as the best way to "know-before-you-go" and offer coupons, discount cards and even a special cruise ship-shopping card good for all these freebies. But you know the old saying - if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.
The Benefits
If you are looking for expensive gifts, such as fine jewelry or watches, definitely attend a shopping seminar. Most cruise shopping directors will offer you manager cards. If you are looking for something specific, say tanzanite, the director can give you the business card of a jeweler who will give you the best price. Managers work on volume, salespeople work on commission.
Some cruise lines offer guaranteed buying at certain stores. This essentially means if you buy it from a recommended store and it does not hold up to expectations, the cruise ship guarantees the purchase. And because the cruise ship does not want to be liable, the stores they guarantee are usually exceptional in their merchandise and service.
If your budget is not in the fine jewelry range, the shopping maps can still be very useful. I found them to be very helpful especially as they did not just contain the recommended stores. When in ports, you usually have limited time, so it is very nice to have an accurate map to follow.
Some of the freebies are worth getting. I took my coupon guide to several stores and picked up a free tote bag, lanyard, and lithograph of the island.
The Drawbacks
The shopping show was a very lengthy presentation about fine jewelry and watches. If you are a bargain hunter, like me, these are not the best ways to discover true deals. Take the maps and coupons, but do not tie yourself to the map and "approved" locations.
As I mentioned, I did take time to find the freebies. But beyond the tote and lithograph, the free jewelry was extremely disappointing. The shopping director mentioned that if you needed great gifts or beautiful souvenirs, grab the free jewelry offered by the "approved" stores.
The one that really caught my attention was the free yellow diamond necklace. The shopping director said it was a "great little necklace." That was a huge overstatement. Reality: it was a microscopic yellow chip super glued to a small silver disc on a plastic cord. I would not wear such a thing, let alone give it as a gift! The free tanzanite earrings were also microscopic and very pale lavender colored. (When looking for tanzanite, the deeper the color purple, the more valued it is.) This continued for most of the jewelers I stopped at.
You may wonder why I complain when it is free. Normally, I would not because expectations of free "fine" jewelry would have been in check. But after attending the shopping show on the ship, expectations get high because you have a well-spoken, well-dressed shopping expert telling you how wonderful these freebies are. They are simply a way for the stores to pull you in with the free offer and try to up-sell you on their products. It is a fine marketing tactic, but be wary of it.
Once I abandoned shopping at the "approved" locations, I found true deals. Another thing you will not hear from the cruise shopping director is that the stores who are on the "approved" list are higher priced and less likely to give you deals. Little Switzerland is not on the "approved" list, but it is a fantastic jewelry store with amazing deals. We have shopped at this chain all over the Caribbean and have yet to be disappointed either in the quality of their products, their service or prices. In fact, you can find Mont Blanc pens and beautiful gemstone jewelry in their clearance cases for up to 75% off the original prices.
Another store I discovered was Boolchand in St. Maarten. They have jewelry, watches, and electronics at low prices and are willing to negotiate with you.
If you are a brand new Caribbean cruiser, you may find the shopping show can be helpful. The shopping director will certainly be able to tell you what to look for in a beautiful tanzanite, blue diamond, Caribbean amber, alexandrite, et cetera. But do not take everything as gospel. You will find most stores in the Caribbean, "approved" or not, will have good quality items (if you know what you are looking for) and will give you a good deal.
By Carol Wilkins
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Cruise Vacations with Small Children: Tips for All-Family Fun
Many of my fondest childhood memories stem from family vacations. Fighting with my brother and sister in the backseat of the car, or someone needing to stop and use the bathroom every five minutes. Well, most of the memories, though fond now, seem to be centered on long car rides.
My husband and I decided to avoid the car trip aspect- especially as our daughter is an only child and yet can still get into backseat fights with her stuffed birds. We went cruising. My husband and I are seasoned cruisers and figured we would have this trip under control. It was my daughter's first time on a ship and she was excited.
Here is what we learned from our experience:
Adjust Expectations.
I had a very clear picture about how vacation would run. Our daughter would enjoy her time with us. We would eat together in the dining room, enjoy a round of putt-putt, use the pool, and when she was ready, she could go to the children's program to play. What I did not count on was that she was off her normal schedule and when that happens, the Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde personality of a three-year-old comes out.
Lesson learned. Attempt to keep the young ones as close to their normal schedule as possible. We had a time zone change to deal with in addition to late nights, early mornings, and lack of naps. With so much activity and fresh air, our daughter also became exhausted faster.
Cruises offer so many activities it is tempting to sign up for a lot. But when cruising with young ones, do take time in the day to go back to the stateroom and have some quiet time. It seemed to help when we did this because it also took us out of the way of the friendly crew members. Smiling and talking and being pleasant to so many strangers can be taxing on anyone, let alone a small child who is not used to it.
Take a Stroller.
Take a stroller with you even for the older preschoolers- four and five-year-olds. At three years old, our daughter had decided she was too old for strollers.
Thankfully, we omitted that from our already large luggage allowance. And we promptly regretted it as soon as we reached our first port-of-call.
As I mentioned previously, children wear out quickly in fresh air and lots of activities. My daughter needed a hug so I picked her up and as soon as she laid her head on my shoulder, she crashed. She is quite tall for her age and solid, so carrying her became awkward. This happened not just the one time but several more times during the trip. Even if you do not think you will need it, reconsider. We commiserated with several parents of Kindergarten-age children who were lugging their sleeping off-spring back to the ship.
Watch Blood Sugar Levels.
If your growing child is anything like ours, be sure to snack often. The wind, sun, sea air, port-of-call activities, et cetera can take a huge toll on children. They may have amazing stamina but also amazing lungs when hungry. Our daughter is a great kid but does not realize when she is hungry. She does not like to stop playing long enough to eat.
When cruising, take advantage of the always present food. Grab fruit to take back to your stateroom. Even the chocolates from the pillows are useful in restoring blood sugar long enough to quiet the child long enough to get a meal.
Take Advantage of Children's Programs.
Even if it is supposed to be "family vacation," do not feel guilty about dropping your child off for a couple hours at the children's program. Most cruise lines offer a fantastic kid's program run by professionals. If sailing with Royal Caribbean, the people in charge of the children are all college graduates with degrees in education. Most children enjoy playing with others their own age and we found it was a great activity for our daughter. Sometimes you need a little time apart and this is a great way to achieve that.
Whatever your plans for vacation, have a wonderful time!
By Carol Wilkins
My husband and I decided to avoid the car trip aspect- especially as our daughter is an only child and yet can still get into backseat fights with her stuffed birds. We went cruising. My husband and I are seasoned cruisers and figured we would have this trip under control. It was my daughter's first time on a ship and she was excited.
Here is what we learned from our experience:
Adjust Expectations.
I had a very clear picture about how vacation would run. Our daughter would enjoy her time with us. We would eat together in the dining room, enjoy a round of putt-putt, use the pool, and when she was ready, she could go to the children's program to play. What I did not count on was that she was off her normal schedule and when that happens, the Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde personality of a three-year-old comes out.
Lesson learned. Attempt to keep the young ones as close to their normal schedule as possible. We had a time zone change to deal with in addition to late nights, early mornings, and lack of naps. With so much activity and fresh air, our daughter also became exhausted faster.
Cruises offer so many activities it is tempting to sign up for a lot. But when cruising with young ones, do take time in the day to go back to the stateroom and have some quiet time. It seemed to help when we did this because it also took us out of the way of the friendly crew members. Smiling and talking and being pleasant to so many strangers can be taxing on anyone, let alone a small child who is not used to it.
Take a Stroller.
Take a stroller with you even for the older preschoolers- four and five-year-olds. At three years old, our daughter had decided she was too old for strollers.
Thankfully, we omitted that from our already large luggage allowance. And we promptly regretted it as soon as we reached our first port-of-call.
As I mentioned previously, children wear out quickly in fresh air and lots of activities. My daughter needed a hug so I picked her up and as soon as she laid her head on my shoulder, she crashed. She is quite tall for her age and solid, so carrying her became awkward. This happened not just the one time but several more times during the trip. Even if you do not think you will need it, reconsider. We commiserated with several parents of Kindergarten-age children who were lugging their sleeping off-spring back to the ship.
Watch Blood Sugar Levels.
If your growing child is anything like ours, be sure to snack often. The wind, sun, sea air, port-of-call activities, et cetera can take a huge toll on children. They may have amazing stamina but also amazing lungs when hungry. Our daughter is a great kid but does not realize when she is hungry. She does not like to stop playing long enough to eat.
When cruising, take advantage of the always present food. Grab fruit to take back to your stateroom. Even the chocolates from the pillows are useful in restoring blood sugar long enough to quiet the child long enough to get a meal.
Take Advantage of Children's Programs.
Even if it is supposed to be "family vacation," do not feel guilty about dropping your child off for a couple hours at the children's program. Most cruise lines offer a fantastic kid's program run by professionals. If sailing with Royal Caribbean, the people in charge of the children are all college graduates with degrees in education. Most children enjoy playing with others their own age and we found it was a great activity for our daughter. Sometimes you need a little time apart and this is a great way to achieve that.
Whatever your plans for vacation, have a wonderful time!
By Carol Wilkins
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Top 10 Places to Visit in London
London has numerous sights and attractions to see like museums, art galleries, parks etc. Let us explore top 10 places to visit in London.London enchants everyone who comes here. This is a place filled with fun and entertainment and it also has a history to bank on. Palaces, parks and museums are there in good number. So let us start our journey and explore London.
Tower of London: Located on the north bank of river Thames, this is marvelous palace to go for. Recently it has also been included in UNESCO world heritage list. Earlier this place was known for torture and great misery.
Buckingham Palace: Visit this place for the changing of guards. It is quite funny to look at the guards with big black hats. This place attracts millions of visitor every year. St Paul’s
Cathedral: Built in 1710, this is a beautiful church. St Paul’s Cathedral has awesome interiors and go to this place for men and women who risked their lives for its safety. Also look out for acoustics because it is very interesting.
West End: This is art capital of London and has many theatres. Enjoy plays and musical shows which run throughout the day. There is every chance of meeting your favourite actor because they are also regular visitor here.
Westminster Abbey: This place is one of the tourist attractions of London. There are many big names buried here. Visit this place for the architecture and rest assure about cherished memories you will carry home.
Trafalgar Square: This is a place once visited for feeding pigeons but that is not allowed these days. Go there for many monuments and you will not be disappointed.
Clock Tower: Often referred to as Big Ben this is one of the most pictured tower. Visit this place for having fun and taking snaps of the world largest four faced chimney clock. The whole experience will be amazing.
Harrods store: Any vacation is incomplete without shopping. Harrods store is world famous and you can get many things for near and dear ones back home.
London Eye: Take a ride of this London Eye and you will say why I did not come here earlier? London Eye gives you a panoramic view of London.
Hyde Park: Spread over more than 300 acres, this is one of the parks that give London a greener look. You can check this one and also since it is closer to many other attractions, this is a must for your London visit.
Landmarks of the beautiful island of Jamaica
The beautiful island of Jamaica boasts a rich, colourful and awe-inspiring history that is still very much preserved today in its timeless landmarks that shout the secrets of days past.
When we discover Jamaica's landmarks, we come closest to discovering loopholes through time that reveal many timelines in history. The landmarks tell the tales of Spanish and British colonialism, the days when pirates plagued the land and the birthplace of reggae.
Kingston
In the capital city of Kingston, a must-see landmark for travellers or locals is the incomparable Port Royal. Back in its heyday of seventeenth century this city was hailed the wickedest place on earth. Frequented by notorious and feared pirates such as Henry Morgan and Blackbeard, and home to the Caribbean's most defeated bout with morality and sobriety, it is no wonder why this place got its name.
Legend has it that the 1692 earthquake that sank half the city in the sea is a retributive act of God for Port Royal's wickedness. But even so, Port Royal being the rebellious town that it is, decided that it was going to use the earthquake to attract even more people to it. When the earthquake hit on June 7, 1692 its shifts made half the town uneven and created the Giddy House, another famous Jamaican landmark. All who go into this half sunken, uneven house are all left feeling light-headed after exiting it.
Also, take time to visit Fort Charles that the British used to ward off the Spanish after they took control of the island in 1655, or the historic St. Peter's Church that was destroyed twice within just over a decade and finally rebuilt in 1726. These Jamaican landmarks are unforgettable.
Prices to Port Royal from Kingston vary but they are generally in the vicinity of $54 per person, $52 per person in a group of 4-6 persons and $45 per person in a group of 7 persons and more.
For all you die-hard Reggae fans a must-stop attraction on you tour of Jamaica's most famous landmarks should include a trip to the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston. Housed in his former studios where he hammered out world-renowned hits, you can indulge in all sorts of Marley memorabilia for an entrance fee of $10.
Also, visit the former great house now turned a national monument, Devon House. At this national landmark, you will get a tour of the Jamaican-Georgian styled home with lavish furnishings eat ice cream and chat with a few of the locals.
Or take a tour of Jamaica's highest peak on the Blue Mountain, home to Jamaica's Blue Mountain Coffee on your next tour of Jamaica's landmarks.
Montego Bay
If you are in the Montego Bay area a popular one among tourists, don't pass up a visit to the Rose Hall Plantation. This famous Jamaican landmark sitting on 6,000 acres is said to be haunted by its former residence, the slave-cursed Annie Palmer, more popularly known as the White Witch of Rose Hall. A slew of misfortunate deaths of her husbands and a notorious mistreatment of her slaves that often included whippings that cleaved flesh from bone, earned her this nickname.
Ocho Rios
In St. Ann is the Bob Marley Mausoleum. Often referred to as the Nine Miles area, this town boasts the largest collection of Bob Marley souvenirs, T-shirts and the final resting place of the Reggae icon. The Zion Bus Line from Chukka Cove is how you get here and while on tour refreshments are served.
Mountainous Jamaica is home to many caves. During slavery, runaway slaves would hide out in the island's many caves to escape recapture. One such cave that served this purpose was the Green Grotto Caves. Take a safe and guided tour through the caves and explore the many deep, winding passageways where maroons once hid for their lives. The limestone cave is 1,525 metres long and 12 metres deep and has numerous chambers and light holes. It also boasts an underground lake - the Grotto Lake. Tours are available daily 9am- 4pm and are priced at $20 for adults and $10 for children 4-12 years old.
To see some of the horrors from which slaves fled, take a quick trip to the Coyoba River Garden and Museum, home to a collection of relics from the plantation society. See old maps, slave shackles, whips and an array of items from Jamaica's history. Also, enjoy breathtaking views of small a waterfall running on huge rocks on the property, take pictures of Ocho Rios Bay from Ysassi Lookout Point, enjoy world-famous Blue Mountain Coffee in the courtyard or visit the shops of Jamaican arts and crafts.
For all you James Bond fanatics, drop by the Golden Eye Estate where author, Ian Fleming, wrote 13 of his James Bond novels. History has it; Ian Fleming fell in love with the island while on a CIA mission in 1946. The Golden Eye Estate was originally a three-bedroom villa, but has now been upgraded with four new villas, all of which boast a serene, beautiful view of the lush trees that surround them.
The Golden Eye Estate has played host to the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Truman Capote, Graham Greene and Noel Coward whose Firefly Estate sits right next door and is also open to tourist all year round.
Another interesting landmark to see while in Jamaica is the island's most celebrated waterfall, Dunn's River Falls. Here you can see where the river meets the Caribbean Sea and climb the rocks washes by the rushing waterfalls.
St. Elizabeth
Lovers' Leap is also a favourite landmark in Jamaica. This famous St. Elizabeth landmark earned its name from the legend of two slaves so madly in love that fearing separation from each other, jumped from a 1700 feet cliff to their deaths. Visit http://www.treasurebeachjamaica.com/lovers.html for more information.
There is never a dull moment to be had in Jamaica, a country filled with such a rich history could never disappoint and it doesn't.
By Tommy Fassbender
When we discover Jamaica's landmarks, we come closest to discovering loopholes through time that reveal many timelines in history. The landmarks tell the tales of Spanish and British colonialism, the days when pirates plagued the land and the birthplace of reggae.
Kingston
In the capital city of Kingston, a must-see landmark for travellers or locals is the incomparable Port Royal. Back in its heyday of seventeenth century this city was hailed the wickedest place on earth. Frequented by notorious and feared pirates such as Henry Morgan and Blackbeard, and home to the Caribbean's most defeated bout with morality and sobriety, it is no wonder why this place got its name.
Legend has it that the 1692 earthquake that sank half the city in the sea is a retributive act of God for Port Royal's wickedness. But even so, Port Royal being the rebellious town that it is, decided that it was going to use the earthquake to attract even more people to it. When the earthquake hit on June 7, 1692 its shifts made half the town uneven and created the Giddy House, another famous Jamaican landmark. All who go into this half sunken, uneven house are all left feeling light-headed after exiting it.
Also, take time to visit Fort Charles that the British used to ward off the Spanish after they took control of the island in 1655, or the historic St. Peter's Church that was destroyed twice within just over a decade and finally rebuilt in 1726. These Jamaican landmarks are unforgettable.
Prices to Port Royal from Kingston vary but they are generally in the vicinity of $54 per person, $52 per person in a group of 4-6 persons and $45 per person in a group of 7 persons and more.
For all you die-hard Reggae fans a must-stop attraction on you tour of Jamaica's most famous landmarks should include a trip to the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston. Housed in his former studios where he hammered out world-renowned hits, you can indulge in all sorts of Marley memorabilia for an entrance fee of $10.
Also, visit the former great house now turned a national monument, Devon House. At this national landmark, you will get a tour of the Jamaican-Georgian styled home with lavish furnishings eat ice cream and chat with a few of the locals.
Or take a tour of Jamaica's highest peak on the Blue Mountain, home to Jamaica's Blue Mountain Coffee on your next tour of Jamaica's landmarks.
Montego Bay
If you are in the Montego Bay area a popular one among tourists, don't pass up a visit to the Rose Hall Plantation. This famous Jamaican landmark sitting on 6,000 acres is said to be haunted by its former residence, the slave-cursed Annie Palmer, more popularly known as the White Witch of Rose Hall. A slew of misfortunate deaths of her husbands and a notorious mistreatment of her slaves that often included whippings that cleaved flesh from bone, earned her this nickname.
Ocho Rios
In St. Ann is the Bob Marley Mausoleum. Often referred to as the Nine Miles area, this town boasts the largest collection of Bob Marley souvenirs, T-shirts and the final resting place of the Reggae icon. The Zion Bus Line from Chukka Cove is how you get here and while on tour refreshments are served.
Mountainous Jamaica is home to many caves. During slavery, runaway slaves would hide out in the island's many caves to escape recapture. One such cave that served this purpose was the Green Grotto Caves. Take a safe and guided tour through the caves and explore the many deep, winding passageways where maroons once hid for their lives. The limestone cave is 1,525 metres long and 12 metres deep and has numerous chambers and light holes. It also boasts an underground lake - the Grotto Lake. Tours are available daily 9am- 4pm and are priced at $20 for adults and $10 for children 4-12 years old.
To see some of the horrors from which slaves fled, take a quick trip to the Coyoba River Garden and Museum, home to a collection of relics from the plantation society. See old maps, slave shackles, whips and an array of items from Jamaica's history. Also, enjoy breathtaking views of small a waterfall running on huge rocks on the property, take pictures of Ocho Rios Bay from Ysassi Lookout Point, enjoy world-famous Blue Mountain Coffee in the courtyard or visit the shops of Jamaican arts and crafts.
For all you James Bond fanatics, drop by the Golden Eye Estate where author, Ian Fleming, wrote 13 of his James Bond novels. History has it; Ian Fleming fell in love with the island while on a CIA mission in 1946. The Golden Eye Estate was originally a three-bedroom villa, but has now been upgraded with four new villas, all of which boast a serene, beautiful view of the lush trees that surround them.
The Golden Eye Estate has played host to the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Truman Capote, Graham Greene and Noel Coward whose Firefly Estate sits right next door and is also open to tourist all year round.
Another interesting landmark to see while in Jamaica is the island's most celebrated waterfall, Dunn's River Falls. Here you can see where the river meets the Caribbean Sea and climb the rocks washes by the rushing waterfalls.
St. Elizabeth
Lovers' Leap is also a favourite landmark in Jamaica. This famous St. Elizabeth landmark earned its name from the legend of two slaves so madly in love that fearing separation from each other, jumped from a 1700 feet cliff to their deaths. Visit http://www.treasurebeachjamaica.com/lovers.html for more information.
There is never a dull moment to be had in Jamaica, a country filled with such a rich history could never disappoint and it doesn't.
By Tommy Fassbender
Monday, June 16, 2008
Preparing for a Summer Vacation
So, you're ready to go on vacation. You've booked your trip, packed your bags and are ready to go. But have you made preparations for when you come back?
Often, when we plan for a vacation, we don't plan for what happens after vacation. For a smooth reentry back into your house and non-vacation life, do some simple housekeeping chores.
Get a housesitter. Have your sitter pick up the mail, water your plants, feed your fish and turn your lights on and off to deter burglars.
If you can't get a sitter, there are some other ways you ways you can prepare:
Stop your mail: put a hold on your mail at usps.com. You can also pick a day to resume the mail.
Clean your house, even though it may be the last thing on your mind. When you enter your house straight off the plane or car, a messy house could put you into an insta-stressful mood.
Lock doors, windows and ask a neighbor to watch the house for you from time to time, even if the neighbor won't be the housesitter.
Protect your home. Put your lights on timers to deter burglars. Look for one that turns lights on and off randomly. Check out th Intermatic Random Pattern security timer at amazon.com.
Save money and energy by unplugging. Even appliances that are turned off but still plugged in take up passive electricity. By unplugging your coffeemaker, TV and other small appliances, you not only save money, but you could protect your belongings from being ruined by power surges.
Dress up your house. Make your home welcoming for when you come home by changing your sheets, leaving easy-to-reheat meals, and buying and not opening new movies for you to watch as you wind down from your trip.
Leave a list. Sometimes we get so wrapped up in our vacation that when we come back home, we forget all the everyday responsibilities that need to be taken care of. Write up a detailed to-do list.
Write up an emergency contact sheet. Create a list with information about your trip like hotel info, flight times and other important information and hand it out to friends and family.
Set up fun things to do on your return. Coming back home can be a little depressing after an action-packed vacation. Plan a movie night or game day with your friends so you have something to look forward to.
By Kelly Allan
Often, when we plan for a vacation, we don't plan for what happens after vacation. For a smooth reentry back into your house and non-vacation life, do some simple housekeeping chores.
Get a housesitter. Have your sitter pick up the mail, water your plants, feed your fish and turn your lights on and off to deter burglars.
If you can't get a sitter, there are some other ways you ways you can prepare:
Stop your mail: put a hold on your mail at usps.com. You can also pick a day to resume the mail.
Clean your house, even though it may be the last thing on your mind. When you enter your house straight off the plane or car, a messy house could put you into an insta-stressful mood.
Lock doors, windows and ask a neighbor to watch the house for you from time to time, even if the neighbor won't be the housesitter.
Protect your home. Put your lights on timers to deter burglars. Look for one that turns lights on and off randomly. Check out th Intermatic Random Pattern security timer at amazon.com.
Save money and energy by unplugging. Even appliances that are turned off but still plugged in take up passive electricity. By unplugging your coffeemaker, TV and other small appliances, you not only save money, but you could protect your belongings from being ruined by power surges.
Dress up your house. Make your home welcoming for when you come home by changing your sheets, leaving easy-to-reheat meals, and buying and not opening new movies for you to watch as you wind down from your trip.
Leave a list. Sometimes we get so wrapped up in our vacation that when we come back home, we forget all the everyday responsibilities that need to be taken care of. Write up a detailed to-do list.
Write up an emergency contact sheet. Create a list with information about your trip like hotel info, flight times and other important information and hand it out to friends and family.
Set up fun things to do on your return. Coming back home can be a little depressing after an action-packed vacation. Plan a movie night or game day with your friends so you have something to look forward to.
By Kelly Allan
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Things to Do on Vacation in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is a fun place to visit and a great place to live with many interesting places to see and things to do in all four seasons of the year. Pennsylvania is located in the Northeastern and Middle Atlantic region and is commonly referred to as Pa or the Quaker State.
Pa is 170 miles north to south and 283 miles east to west. Of the total 46,055 square miles, 44,817 square miles are land, 490 square miles are inland waters and 749 square miles are waters in Lake Erie. There are 51 miles of coastline along Lake Erie and 57 miles of shoreline along the Delaware Estuary. The highest point of 3,213 feet above sea level is at Mount Davis and the lowest point is at sea level on the Delaware River.
The State offers places to visit, sights to see, sports of all kinds for all ages. One of the favorite places for the sightseers is the Pennsylvania Dutch region in South-Central part of the state. The Pennsylvania Dutch includes the Old Order Amish and Old Order Mennonites and at least 35 other sects and is common in the rural areas around the cities of Lancaster, York, Harrisburg and Hershey.
While visiting this region, for the children a visit to Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery located at 219 East Main Street, Lititz PA is a good tour for the young. The tour explores the large space where Sturgis started the first pretzel bakery in the US back in the late 1700s. The children will be thrilled when handed a big, squishy wad of dough and being taught how to twist it into a pretzel. The tour lasts about 20 minutes, hours are Mon-Sat 9:30am - 4:30 pm and the fees are under $10.00. (717-626-4354)
Abe's Buggy Rides located at 2596 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand PA will be an enjoyable event for children and adults alike. Abe's is a combination buggy ride provider, petting zoo and miniature snack bar. Families can choose to ride in authentic Amish buggies of varying sizes for 20 to 75 minutes. Any ride longer than 20 minutes will take you under a covered bridge and past Amish farms and houses. Have your driver sign your feedback card upon your return and you'll get a homemade cookie or whoopee pie. No reservations required, if you have less than 10 people you can just show up, buggies can seat anywhere from four people to six or so. Hours are Mon-Sat 9am-6pm; fees are $10-$20. (717-392-1794)
Children will be happy to visit the Hands-On House Children's Museum located at 721 Landis Valley Rd, Lancaster PA. They offer fun exhibits about machinery and farming and the interactive focus will keep the kids happy. Hours vary by season and fees are under $10. (717)569-5437
For a day full of fun a visit to the Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park is a must. The excitement starts when you walk through the big castle facade into the Dutch Wonderland. The park offers about 30 rides that offer plenty of fun for children up to the age of 12. Mini-theaters throughout the park provide short, entertaining shows and skits that will excite the kids. There are five eateries that offer fudge, kettle corn, poultry dogs, fresh fruit and fresh sushi. Bring your bathing suits and towels so you can enjoy the small water park with slides and a giant soaking bucket. Park is closed January through April. Hours vary by month, for updated information visit www.dutchwonderland.com/hours/index.html. Fees are $20-$30.
For those children and adults that enjoy visiting zoos, Pennsylvania has some very good ones. The nation's first zoo is the Philadelphia Zoo; it is located in Fairmount Park on the west bank of the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia. The zoo comprises 42 acres and has more than 1,300 animals, many which are rare and endangered. For the children there is a children's zoo, a balloon ride, a paddleboat lake and many interactive and educational exhibits. Places in the zoo that you will want to visit are, The Dodge RareAnimal Conservation Center which includes interactive graphics and up-close views of some of the world's most endangered animals: the giant Rodriques Fruit Bats, Naked Mole Rats, Blue-Eyed Lemurs, Tree-Kangaroos and much more.
The Reptile and Amphibian House features over 125 species of amphibians and reptiles, including the giant tortoises and the very venomous King Cobra. Next is the "Bank ofAmerica: Big Cat Falls", that features numerous species of wild cats including the African Lions, Black Jaguars, Amur Tigers and the Puma. To see a family of six rare playful giant otters, Snow Leopards, Red Pandas and Clouded Leopards in their unique naturalistic environments visit the Carnivore Kingdom. At the African Plains you will see Warthogs, Sable Antelope, Mhorr Gazelle, Reticulated Giraffes, hippos and zebras. The Zoo also has exotic South American animals such as the Giant Anteaters and Capybaras. For a view of a life time, visit the Channel 6 Zooballoon. It is a tethered helium balloon that rises 400 feet to offer a view of the Zoo, the Schuylkill River and the Philadelphia Center City skyline.
To get close to animals, over 120 exotic species schedule a visit to the Claws'N Paws Wild Animal Park, it is located on Rt 590, four miles East of Hamlin, in the beautiful Pocono Mountains. They offer two different animals shows, you can feed the giraffe and Lory Parrots also there is a Petting Zoo and a Turtle Town. The Zoo is open from May 1st to October 21, 2008, the 2008 general admission rates are Adults (age 12 & up) $13.95, Junior (Age 2-11) $9.95, Senior (Age 65 & up) $12.95, Age 1 and under) Free.
Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium is located about 5 miles east of downtown Pittsburgh in Highland Park, address is One Wild Place, Pittsburgh PA 15205 (412-665-3640). The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is one of only six major zoo and aquarium combinations in the country. It consists of 77-acres and also has a ranked top three children's zoo in the country. For the kids a visit to Kid's Kingdom will be an exciting event. They will love the Kids Kingdom and Discovery Pavilion that features a walk-through Kangaroo Yard, Deer Yard and Goat Yard where they can touch them. The favorite is the fabulous sea lion pool with underwater viewing window and crawl-through tunnels with pop-up bubbles where the kids can play hide-and-seek with meerkats. A visit to the exhibit called "Water's Edge" is a must; you will be nose to nose with polar bears, sea otters, sea lions and walruses via two underwater tunnels and a large convex underwater window. The zoo and aquarium is open every day except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas and New Year's Day. Hours vary depending on the time of year, so call before you go. The fees are from April 1 - November 30, Adults $12.00; Seniors (60 years and older) $11.00 Children (2-13) $10.00. Members and children under 24 months are free. From December 1 - March 31, Adults $9.00, Children and Seniors $8.00 and members and children under 24 months are free.
While traveling in the eastern part of the state, be sure to visit the city of Philadelphia which is the largest city in the state and the sixth most populous city in the United States. The city is rich in history and a visit to Independence Hall should be your first stop. Tours are given by rangers and are free. Next be sure to visit the Adventure Aquarium that features nearly 200,000 square feet of sea life and wildlife. You can visit the West African River Experience with the hippopotamuses, porcupines and over 20 species of African birds in a free-flight aviary, surrounded with sharks in a suspended 40-foot walk through tunnel and explore the wonders of the deep sea in the Jules Verne Gallery. Fees are adults $18.95, Children 2-12 $14.95, children under 2 are fee. The Adventure Aquarium is located at 1 Riverside Dr, and their web site is www.adventureaquarium.com.
For the whole family the Franklin Institute Science Museum will offer something for all ages. It will provide an imaginative trip through the worlds of science that demonstrates the influence of science in our lives. There are four parts to the complex. The first is the Franklin National Memorial with a 30-ton statue of its namesake and a collection of authentic Franklin artifacts and possessions. The second is a collection of science and technology oriented exhibition areas. There are a hands-on displays such as the "Titanic" show, a gigantic walk-through heart, a Train Factory, where you can play engineer for a 350-ton locomotive. For a hair rising experience plug into a Van de Graaff generator at the lighting gallery. The third offers an energy hall bursts with Rube Goldberg contraptions, noisemakers and light shows. The fourth specializes in astronomy and mathematical puzzles. There is much more to see and experience and will provide an afternoon of unforgettable experiences. For prices and fees check their web site at www.fl.edu.
Traveling in the western part of the state be sure to visit the steel city, Pittsburgh. Home of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh Pirates and Pittsburgh Penguins. Some of the attractions are Carnegie Museum of Art, features French Impressionist and post-Impressionist paintings, American art and new paintings by working artists. It also has the one of the world's largest collections of plaster casts of architectural masterpieces.
Take a ride on the Duquesne Incline. Scale Mount Washington in one of two original 1877 cable cars for a fun and unique ride and a breathtaking view of the Pittsburgh skyline when you each the top of the 400-foot incline. For the natural history lovers, visit the Carnegie Museum of Natural History for a fascinating exploration of the Earth Sciences, Life Sciences and Anthropology through dazzling exhibits and hands-on displays the whole family will enjoy.
For a stunning view of the city and a variety of outdoor recreation visit Point State Park. The Point served as a key strategic spot during the French and Indian War and is a National Historic Landmark.
Pennsylvania has many beautiful and wonderful state forests and parks. The Allegheny National Forest located in the northwestern part of the state has half a million acres of rugged, crenellated Allegheny Plateau landscape. There are many miles of footpaths, bike trails, trout streams and navigable rivers as well as the flat-water expanses of the Allegheny Reservoir.
The Pocono Mountains in Northeastern Pa offers 2,400 square miles of wooded peaks and valleys with numerous lakes, rivers and some of the loveliest waterfalls in the east. With such natural beauty and hundreds of attractions and places to stay, the Pocono Mountains are the perfect place to vacation year-round. Springtime the Pocono's are filled with blossoming wild flowers and blooming activity. You can enjoy canoeing, tennis, hiking, horseback rides or mountain bike riding through the woodlands. For a fabulous display of colors, visit the Pocono's in the fall. The leaves and landscape are dazzling with different fall colors.
For the bike riding enthusiast, Pennsylvania offers a wide variety of bike trails. There are hundreds of paved and unpaved roads, dirt roads, trails and single tracks that are suitable for biking. Some of the Mountain Bike area is, Lehigh Gorge. rated as one of the top 3 mountain biking destinations in the United States by Cycling Magazine. A 25-mile self guided bike tour of the magnificent mountain scenery through Lehigh Gorge State Park, overlooking the Lehigh River. Bike Rentals are $5.00 per hour or $25 a day. Group Rate, $20 each, 3 hour minimum.
The Switchback Railway is an extremely pleasant 9-mile downhill ride that follows Mauch Chunk Creek and ends at the 19th Century Opera House in Jim Thorpe. You are shuttled to the starting point and are picked up at the end of the ride. Rentals and Shuttle are $26.00, Shuttle only $11.00.
Pennsylvania offers many options for camping, golfing and fishing. There are developed camp sites and for those who like rugged sittings, there are many back country camping sites. For those interested in golfing, check out the State of Pennsylvania Play and Stay website http://www.playandstayinpa.com/playandstay/index.jsp.
For those visitors interested in fishing, Pa offers a wide variety of fishing. There are paid stocked lakes, rivers, streams that will provide you with the opportunity for catching many different species of fish. Fly fishing the cool mountain streams is one of the most popular fishing activities.
One thing you can be certain of that a vacation to Pennsylvania will be a fun filled trip that the entire family, the young, adult and senior citizen will enjoy and will take home wonderful memories. From history, art, golfing, fishing, hiking, biking, winter sports, good food, theater, big city or rural country settings, Pennsylvania has it all. For your next vacation or just a week-end outing come and enjoy what the Keystone state has to offer. Come to my neck of the woods and experience life in the wilds of Pa!
Source
Pa is 170 miles north to south and 283 miles east to west. Of the total 46,055 square miles, 44,817 square miles are land, 490 square miles are inland waters and 749 square miles are waters in Lake Erie. There are 51 miles of coastline along Lake Erie and 57 miles of shoreline along the Delaware Estuary. The highest point of 3,213 feet above sea level is at Mount Davis and the lowest point is at sea level on the Delaware River.
The State offers places to visit, sights to see, sports of all kinds for all ages. One of the favorite places for the sightseers is the Pennsylvania Dutch region in South-Central part of the state. The Pennsylvania Dutch includes the Old Order Amish and Old Order Mennonites and at least 35 other sects and is common in the rural areas around the cities of Lancaster, York, Harrisburg and Hershey.
While visiting this region, for the children a visit to Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery located at 219 East Main Street, Lititz PA is a good tour for the young. The tour explores the large space where Sturgis started the first pretzel bakery in the US back in the late 1700s. The children will be thrilled when handed a big, squishy wad of dough and being taught how to twist it into a pretzel. The tour lasts about 20 minutes, hours are Mon-Sat 9:30am - 4:30 pm and the fees are under $10.00. (717-626-4354)
Abe's Buggy Rides located at 2596 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand PA will be an enjoyable event for children and adults alike. Abe's is a combination buggy ride provider, petting zoo and miniature snack bar. Families can choose to ride in authentic Amish buggies of varying sizes for 20 to 75 minutes. Any ride longer than 20 minutes will take you under a covered bridge and past Amish farms and houses. Have your driver sign your feedback card upon your return and you'll get a homemade cookie or whoopee pie. No reservations required, if you have less than 10 people you can just show up, buggies can seat anywhere from four people to six or so. Hours are Mon-Sat 9am-6pm; fees are $10-$20. (717-392-1794)
Children will be happy to visit the Hands-On House Children's Museum located at 721 Landis Valley Rd, Lancaster PA. They offer fun exhibits about machinery and farming and the interactive focus will keep the kids happy. Hours vary by season and fees are under $10. (717)569-5437
For a day full of fun a visit to the Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park is a must. The excitement starts when you walk through the big castle facade into the Dutch Wonderland. The park offers about 30 rides that offer plenty of fun for children up to the age of 12. Mini-theaters throughout the park provide short, entertaining shows and skits that will excite the kids. There are five eateries that offer fudge, kettle corn, poultry dogs, fresh fruit and fresh sushi. Bring your bathing suits and towels so you can enjoy the small water park with slides and a giant soaking bucket. Park is closed January through April. Hours vary by month, for updated information visit www.dutchwonderland.com/hours/index.html. Fees are $20-$30.
For those children and adults that enjoy visiting zoos, Pennsylvania has some very good ones. The nation's first zoo is the Philadelphia Zoo; it is located in Fairmount Park on the west bank of the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia. The zoo comprises 42 acres and has more than 1,300 animals, many which are rare and endangered. For the children there is a children's zoo, a balloon ride, a paddleboat lake and many interactive and educational exhibits. Places in the zoo that you will want to visit are, The Dodge RareAnimal Conservation Center which includes interactive graphics and up-close views of some of the world's most endangered animals: the giant Rodriques Fruit Bats, Naked Mole Rats, Blue-Eyed Lemurs, Tree-Kangaroos and much more.
The Reptile and Amphibian House features over 125 species of amphibians and reptiles, including the giant tortoises and the very venomous King Cobra. Next is the "Bank ofAmerica: Big Cat Falls", that features numerous species of wild cats including the African Lions, Black Jaguars, Amur Tigers and the Puma. To see a family of six rare playful giant otters, Snow Leopards, Red Pandas and Clouded Leopards in their unique naturalistic environments visit the Carnivore Kingdom. At the African Plains you will see Warthogs, Sable Antelope, Mhorr Gazelle, Reticulated Giraffes, hippos and zebras. The Zoo also has exotic South American animals such as the Giant Anteaters and Capybaras. For a view of a life time, visit the Channel 6 Zooballoon. It is a tethered helium balloon that rises 400 feet to offer a view of the Zoo, the Schuylkill River and the Philadelphia Center City skyline.
To get close to animals, over 120 exotic species schedule a visit to the Claws'N Paws Wild Animal Park, it is located on Rt 590, four miles East of Hamlin, in the beautiful Pocono Mountains. They offer two different animals shows, you can feed the giraffe and Lory Parrots also there is a Petting Zoo and a Turtle Town. The Zoo is open from May 1st to October 21, 2008, the 2008 general admission rates are Adults (age 12 & up) $13.95, Junior (Age 2-11) $9.95, Senior (Age 65 & up) $12.95, Age 1 and under) Free.
Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium is located about 5 miles east of downtown Pittsburgh in Highland Park, address is One Wild Place, Pittsburgh PA 15205 (412-665-3640). The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is one of only six major zoo and aquarium combinations in the country. It consists of 77-acres and also has a ranked top three children's zoo in the country. For the kids a visit to Kid's Kingdom will be an exciting event. They will love the Kids Kingdom and Discovery Pavilion that features a walk-through Kangaroo Yard, Deer Yard and Goat Yard where they can touch them. The favorite is the fabulous sea lion pool with underwater viewing window and crawl-through tunnels with pop-up bubbles where the kids can play hide-and-seek with meerkats. A visit to the exhibit called "Water's Edge" is a must; you will be nose to nose with polar bears, sea otters, sea lions and walruses via two underwater tunnels and a large convex underwater window. The zoo and aquarium is open every day except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas and New Year's Day. Hours vary depending on the time of year, so call before you go. The fees are from April 1 - November 30, Adults $12.00; Seniors (60 years and older) $11.00 Children (2-13) $10.00. Members and children under 24 months are free. From December 1 - March 31, Adults $9.00, Children and Seniors $8.00 and members and children under 24 months are free.
While traveling in the eastern part of the state, be sure to visit the city of Philadelphia which is the largest city in the state and the sixth most populous city in the United States. The city is rich in history and a visit to Independence Hall should be your first stop. Tours are given by rangers and are free. Next be sure to visit the Adventure Aquarium that features nearly 200,000 square feet of sea life and wildlife. You can visit the West African River Experience with the hippopotamuses, porcupines and over 20 species of African birds in a free-flight aviary, surrounded with sharks in a suspended 40-foot walk through tunnel and explore the wonders of the deep sea in the Jules Verne Gallery. Fees are adults $18.95, Children 2-12 $14.95, children under 2 are fee. The Adventure Aquarium is located at 1 Riverside Dr, and their web site is www.adventureaquarium.com.
For the whole family the Franklin Institute Science Museum will offer something for all ages. It will provide an imaginative trip through the worlds of science that demonstrates the influence of science in our lives. There are four parts to the complex. The first is the Franklin National Memorial with a 30-ton statue of its namesake and a collection of authentic Franklin artifacts and possessions. The second is a collection of science and technology oriented exhibition areas. There are a hands-on displays such as the "Titanic" show, a gigantic walk-through heart, a Train Factory, where you can play engineer for a 350-ton locomotive. For a hair rising experience plug into a Van de Graaff generator at the lighting gallery. The third offers an energy hall bursts with Rube Goldberg contraptions, noisemakers and light shows. The fourth specializes in astronomy and mathematical puzzles. There is much more to see and experience and will provide an afternoon of unforgettable experiences. For prices and fees check their web site at www.fl.edu.
Traveling in the western part of the state be sure to visit the steel city, Pittsburgh. Home of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh Pirates and Pittsburgh Penguins. Some of the attractions are Carnegie Museum of Art, features French Impressionist and post-Impressionist paintings, American art and new paintings by working artists. It also has the one of the world's largest collections of plaster casts of architectural masterpieces.
Take a ride on the Duquesne Incline. Scale Mount Washington in one of two original 1877 cable cars for a fun and unique ride and a breathtaking view of the Pittsburgh skyline when you each the top of the 400-foot incline. For the natural history lovers, visit the Carnegie Museum of Natural History for a fascinating exploration of the Earth Sciences, Life Sciences and Anthropology through dazzling exhibits and hands-on displays the whole family will enjoy.
For a stunning view of the city and a variety of outdoor recreation visit Point State Park. The Point served as a key strategic spot during the French and Indian War and is a National Historic Landmark.
Pennsylvania has many beautiful and wonderful state forests and parks. The Allegheny National Forest located in the northwestern part of the state has half a million acres of rugged, crenellated Allegheny Plateau landscape. There are many miles of footpaths, bike trails, trout streams and navigable rivers as well as the flat-water expanses of the Allegheny Reservoir.
The Pocono Mountains in Northeastern Pa offers 2,400 square miles of wooded peaks and valleys with numerous lakes, rivers and some of the loveliest waterfalls in the east. With such natural beauty and hundreds of attractions and places to stay, the Pocono Mountains are the perfect place to vacation year-round. Springtime the Pocono's are filled with blossoming wild flowers and blooming activity. You can enjoy canoeing, tennis, hiking, horseback rides or mountain bike riding through the woodlands. For a fabulous display of colors, visit the Pocono's in the fall. The leaves and landscape are dazzling with different fall colors.
For the bike riding enthusiast, Pennsylvania offers a wide variety of bike trails. There are hundreds of paved and unpaved roads, dirt roads, trails and single tracks that are suitable for biking. Some of the Mountain Bike area is, Lehigh Gorge. rated as one of the top 3 mountain biking destinations in the United States by Cycling Magazine. A 25-mile self guided bike tour of the magnificent mountain scenery through Lehigh Gorge State Park, overlooking the Lehigh River. Bike Rentals are $5.00 per hour or $25 a day. Group Rate, $20 each, 3 hour minimum.
The Switchback Railway is an extremely pleasant 9-mile downhill ride that follows Mauch Chunk Creek and ends at the 19th Century Opera House in Jim Thorpe. You are shuttled to the starting point and are picked up at the end of the ride. Rentals and Shuttle are $26.00, Shuttle only $11.00.
Pennsylvania offers many options for camping, golfing and fishing. There are developed camp sites and for those who like rugged sittings, there are many back country camping sites. For those interested in golfing, check out the State of Pennsylvania Play and Stay website http://www.playandstayinpa.com/playandstay/index.jsp.
For those visitors interested in fishing, Pa offers a wide variety of fishing. There are paid stocked lakes, rivers, streams that will provide you with the opportunity for catching many different species of fish. Fly fishing the cool mountain streams is one of the most popular fishing activities.
One thing you can be certain of that a vacation to Pennsylvania will be a fun filled trip that the entire family, the young, adult and senior citizen will enjoy and will take home wonderful memories. From history, art, golfing, fishing, hiking, biking, winter sports, good food, theater, big city or rural country settings, Pennsylvania has it all. For your next vacation or just a week-end outing come and enjoy what the Keystone state has to offer. Come to my neck of the woods and experience life in the wilds of Pa!
Source
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Deciding Whether or Not to Visit Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World. A magical place where all of your worries, doubts, and worldly problems disappear. Once you pass through the gate and check in to your hotel, you are transported to a land of wonder, imagination, and adventure. There is literally no possible way that the World that Walt Elias Disney envisioned can become boring or repetitive.
If you have been before then you are probably thinking that there is no way that you will hand over your hard earned cash back to Mickey. But there are countless ways to save money such as packing food, snacks, and drinks. You will never regret taking a well deserved getaway to Walt Disney World Resort, especially if it is a time spent with your family or friends or both.
There is no other sight in the entire world that compares to when you walk into the Magic Kingdom and take a long look at Cinderella's Castle. Nothing even comes close to the thrill of riding Expedition Everest at the Animal Kingdom as you rush down a rickety trail haunted by a terrible Yeti. It is the best feeling in the world to wake up in your hotel room in the morning and to know that you have nothing to do all day but play in the parks. No business meetings. No school.
No sports practices. Nothing but playtime. If you are still wondering if you would rather stay at home all summer and worry about frivolous things, then go ahead and take a gamble. You can not go wrong when you visit the House of Mouse down in Orlando, Florida. I will hopefully be visiting Walt Disney World sometime in July of this year. After all, this is the year of A Million Dreams at Walt Disney World Resort.
You never know if you will be spending the night at the Castle of Cinderella or if you will be awarded lifetime passes to visit Disney World for the rest of your life. The World will never become outdated or a location simply for children because it gives young children and adults as well something to hold on to. Something to hope for. A chance to escape our daily routines and spend a few days at the Happiest Place on Earth. Believe me.
This is a decision that you will not regret. The memories will be instilled in your minds forever. You will become eight years old again right as you pass through the gates to this place of magic and wonder.
"To All That Come To This Happy Place... Welcome" - Walter Elias Disney
By Scott Thomas
If you have been before then you are probably thinking that there is no way that you will hand over your hard earned cash back to Mickey. But there are countless ways to save money such as packing food, snacks, and drinks. You will never regret taking a well deserved getaway to Walt Disney World Resort, especially if it is a time spent with your family or friends or both.
There is no other sight in the entire world that compares to when you walk into the Magic Kingdom and take a long look at Cinderella's Castle. Nothing even comes close to the thrill of riding Expedition Everest at the Animal Kingdom as you rush down a rickety trail haunted by a terrible Yeti. It is the best feeling in the world to wake up in your hotel room in the morning and to know that you have nothing to do all day but play in the parks. No business meetings. No school.
No sports practices. Nothing but playtime. If you are still wondering if you would rather stay at home all summer and worry about frivolous things, then go ahead and take a gamble. You can not go wrong when you visit the House of Mouse down in Orlando, Florida. I will hopefully be visiting Walt Disney World sometime in July of this year. After all, this is the year of A Million Dreams at Walt Disney World Resort.
You never know if you will be spending the night at the Castle of Cinderella or if you will be awarded lifetime passes to visit Disney World for the rest of your life. The World will never become outdated or a location simply for children because it gives young children and adults as well something to hold on to. Something to hope for. A chance to escape our daily routines and spend a few days at the Happiest Place on Earth. Believe me.
This is a decision that you will not regret. The memories will be instilled in your minds forever. You will become eight years old again right as you pass through the gates to this place of magic and wonder.
"To All That Come To This Happy Place... Welcome" - Walter Elias Disney
By Scott Thomas
Friday, June 13, 2008
Travel Facts About Mexico City
Is anyone out of options on where to go this summer? This year, most individuals are choosing to travel domestically. For those who are still looking to travel internationally and learn about culture and have fun, look no further! Welcome to Mexico City!
When people think of Mexico, Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta, and Cancun comes in mind. That is part of it. There are some tourists who hardly think of Mexico City. Many people know that this is the largest city in the world and the most overcrowded. In addition to this city's elements, it is also Mexico's capital. It has so much to offer from the historical standpoint to the swanky neighborhoods and the nightlife.
Here are some of Mexico City's points of interests: Trust me, these are wonderful places to visit.
San Angel, which is south of Mexico City, represents the colonial era of Mexico. This place is as historical as it gets. This is the typical colonial neighborhood with cobblestone streets and shaded plazas. San Angel's colonial homes are painted in bright colors, and this is home to many mansions and haciendas. On Saturdays, there is a market called Bazaar Sabado, which is known for having the finest art works, handcrafts, and pottery.
Another colonial neighborhood, Coyoacan, which is in close proximity with San Angel, has a very cozy feeling of colonial Mexico in the present time. Just picture being under shaded trees and central plazas on the weekends. This is the feeling that tourists get when visiting this city. In addition to offering shaded trees, Coyoacan also have modern-day bars, cafes, and bookstores that attract a Bohemian-type environment. Of course, this city was home to one of the most famous artists, Frida Kahlo. Kahlo's old home is now a museum.
Who loves to shop? We all do to a certain extent. Mexico City has some of the most upscale and chic restaurants in the city. In Mexico City, and in most parts of Mexico, there are mercados, or markets that cater to specific categories, such as joyeria (jewelry market) and carniceria (meat market). Condesa and Polanco are two of the neighborhoods that tourists should check out.
Condesa is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Mexico City. Think of it as the Manhattan of Mexico City. It is popular among the artistic crowd, such as many of Mexico's top entertainers and telenovela stars. Anyway, since I know so much about this neighborhood, I might as well talk about Condesa. Many of its buildings are on an art deco and European style and it is so peaceful from the other connecting neighborhoods. It is also filled with boutique shops, sidewalk cafes, and bistros, which is popular among locals.
Like Condesa, Polanco is another trendy and upscale neighborhood, but more of a residential and commercial district. This neighborhood also has luxury shops, boutiques, and malls, which sells designer fashions, crafts, pottery, and china. The Presidente Masaryk area of Polanco has shops from designers like Christian Dior and Hermes. Also besides these shops, there are some exclusive restaurants and sidewalk cafes. Since Condesa is like Manhattan, Polanco is the Mexican version of Beverly Hills.
I know that many tourists are looking for the nightlife. Nightlife in Mexico City is pretty similar to the United States in many ways, such as having salsa clubs, the always-clustered dance clubs, and of course the drinking bars. For those individuals who want something more serene, there are shows such as the opera and the philharmonic orchestras. Anybody who wants to have sports in their nightlife, there are events such as boxing and wrestling, or lucha libre in Mexico.
There is just so much to do in Mexico City. Since this city is so large, it is impossible to learn about everything except that is has such a rich culture. Anyone who has always had the desire to visit Mexico, I would recommend Mexico City. From what I know about Mexico City is this: it is recommended that tourists should not have backpacks, or wear sandals and shorts. Otherwise, he/she will be very obvious that they are foreigners.
When people think of Mexico, Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta, and Cancun comes in mind. That is part of it. There are some tourists who hardly think of Mexico City. Many people know that this is the largest city in the world and the most overcrowded. In addition to this city's elements, it is also Mexico's capital. It has so much to offer from the historical standpoint to the swanky neighborhoods and the nightlife.
Here are some of Mexico City's points of interests: Trust me, these are wonderful places to visit.
San Angel, which is south of Mexico City, represents the colonial era of Mexico. This place is as historical as it gets. This is the typical colonial neighborhood with cobblestone streets and shaded plazas. San Angel's colonial homes are painted in bright colors, and this is home to many mansions and haciendas. On Saturdays, there is a market called Bazaar Sabado, which is known for having the finest art works, handcrafts, and pottery.
Another colonial neighborhood, Coyoacan, which is in close proximity with San Angel, has a very cozy feeling of colonial Mexico in the present time. Just picture being under shaded trees and central plazas on the weekends. This is the feeling that tourists get when visiting this city. In addition to offering shaded trees, Coyoacan also have modern-day bars, cafes, and bookstores that attract a Bohemian-type environment. Of course, this city was home to one of the most famous artists, Frida Kahlo. Kahlo's old home is now a museum.
Who loves to shop? We all do to a certain extent. Mexico City has some of the most upscale and chic restaurants in the city. In Mexico City, and in most parts of Mexico, there are mercados, or markets that cater to specific categories, such as joyeria (jewelry market) and carniceria (meat market). Condesa and Polanco are two of the neighborhoods that tourists should check out.
Condesa is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Mexico City. Think of it as the Manhattan of Mexico City. It is popular among the artistic crowd, such as many of Mexico's top entertainers and telenovela stars. Anyway, since I know so much about this neighborhood, I might as well talk about Condesa. Many of its buildings are on an art deco and European style and it is so peaceful from the other connecting neighborhoods. It is also filled with boutique shops, sidewalk cafes, and bistros, which is popular among locals.
Like Condesa, Polanco is another trendy and upscale neighborhood, but more of a residential and commercial district. This neighborhood also has luxury shops, boutiques, and malls, which sells designer fashions, crafts, pottery, and china. The Presidente Masaryk area of Polanco has shops from designers like Christian Dior and Hermes. Also besides these shops, there are some exclusive restaurants and sidewalk cafes. Since Condesa is like Manhattan, Polanco is the Mexican version of Beverly Hills.
I know that many tourists are looking for the nightlife. Nightlife in Mexico City is pretty similar to the United States in many ways, such as having salsa clubs, the always-clustered dance clubs, and of course the drinking bars. For those individuals who want something more serene, there are shows such as the opera and the philharmonic orchestras. Anybody who wants to have sports in their nightlife, there are events such as boxing and wrestling, or lucha libre in Mexico.
There is just so much to do in Mexico City. Since this city is so large, it is impossible to learn about everything except that is has such a rich culture. Anyone who has always had the desire to visit Mexico, I would recommend Mexico City. From what I know about Mexico City is this: it is recommended that tourists should not have backpacks, or wear sandals and shorts. Otherwise, he/she will be very obvious that they are foreigners.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Things to Do in Los Angeles, California
I've always loved California. Coming from a colder climate, I, like many people, tend to love anywhere that's warm. But with California, it's not just the weather. It's everything about it. You literally feel like you're in a different country.
As much as I love California, my article is more about Los Angeles, the City of Angels as it is also referred to as. While LA may not be my #1 favorite city, it's not far from it (New York City will always be #1 in my heart and I'm not even from there).
LA seems to have a lot to offer and I still haven't seen it all. So I'll talk about what I have seen. If you love shopping and are quite the frugal shopper at that, you'll love one of my favorite places to shop - Santee Alley. Located near Santee and Olympic, Santee Alley is a long 4 mile strip of just pure shopping. This time around was just as exhilarating as the first time. Is it the cleanest place on earth? Not really. I suggest you leave the flip flops or sandals at home or in the car and opt for full foot coverage. Santee Alley offers everything: clothes, accessories, DVDS (of the illegal variety unfortunately), luggage, food, jewelry, household items and more. If you love to bargain, then this is the place for you. You need a whole day to do the alley as everything shuts down around 6pm (and it shuts down pretty promptly). It's funny that the majority of people there were of Latino background and yet, if they yelled a bargain in Spanish, I spoke the same language all of a sudden.
But maybe you love designer things. While Santee Alley will offer you knock offs of the designer bags, shoes and clothes, the Beverly Center is there to serve the real deal. While I did not spend a penny there, I did marvel at all the designer stores. Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Prada, just to name a few. Great to marvel at but not in my budget.
It's quite obvious that my love of LA is more associated with shopping. Well, we did do other things. We had to do some people watching on Rodeo Drive. While I didn't see any celebrities this time around, I did see my first group of paparazzi. Wish I took a picture of them! To see upper class Mercedes, Maybachs, Phantoms and Rolls Royces seemed to be a common thing for this neck of the woods. It sure did hurt my neck twisting and turning to see them.
While I've heard a lot about Venice Beach, it seemed to be a bore to me. Maybe because that day just happened to be dreary one, but don't let my negative view of it stop you from going. I heard that you can get some good entertainment up and down the boardwalk. The only thing we got was a few dogs and some crazy surfers ready to hit the waves.
This article is short and didn't do LA much justice but you need to visit the City of Angels at least once in your life to say that you've been there!
By Gilda Pittmon
As much as I love California, my article is more about Los Angeles, the City of Angels as it is also referred to as. While LA may not be my #1 favorite city, it's not far from it (New York City will always be #1 in my heart and I'm not even from there).
LA seems to have a lot to offer and I still haven't seen it all. So I'll talk about what I have seen. If you love shopping and are quite the frugal shopper at that, you'll love one of my favorite places to shop - Santee Alley. Located near Santee and Olympic, Santee Alley is a long 4 mile strip of just pure shopping. This time around was just as exhilarating as the first time. Is it the cleanest place on earth? Not really. I suggest you leave the flip flops or sandals at home or in the car and opt for full foot coverage. Santee Alley offers everything: clothes, accessories, DVDS (of the illegal variety unfortunately), luggage, food, jewelry, household items and more. If you love to bargain, then this is the place for you. You need a whole day to do the alley as everything shuts down around 6pm (and it shuts down pretty promptly). It's funny that the majority of people there were of Latino background and yet, if they yelled a bargain in Spanish, I spoke the same language all of a sudden.
But maybe you love designer things. While Santee Alley will offer you knock offs of the designer bags, shoes and clothes, the Beverly Center is there to serve the real deal. While I did not spend a penny there, I did marvel at all the designer stores. Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Prada, just to name a few. Great to marvel at but not in my budget.
It's quite obvious that my love of LA is more associated with shopping. Well, we did do other things. We had to do some people watching on Rodeo Drive. While I didn't see any celebrities this time around, I did see my first group of paparazzi. Wish I took a picture of them! To see upper class Mercedes, Maybachs, Phantoms and Rolls Royces seemed to be a common thing for this neck of the woods. It sure did hurt my neck twisting and turning to see them.
While I've heard a lot about Venice Beach, it seemed to be a bore to me. Maybe because that day just happened to be dreary one, but don't let my negative view of it stop you from going. I heard that you can get some good entertainment up and down the boardwalk. The only thing we got was a few dogs and some crazy surfers ready to hit the waves.
This article is short and didn't do LA much justice but you need to visit the City of Angels at least once in your life to say that you've been there!
By Gilda Pittmon
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Golden Rules for a Good Trip
(Family Features) - Traveling can be stressful and can be made worse when you have to deal with other travelers who are also stressed. The key to making any trip better-for yourself and your fellow travelers-is to remember that you are not alone.
Whether you're stranded in an airport, stuck on a long flight, or staying in a full-to-capacity hotel, keeping your cool and using the Golden Rule is essential. Remember, it's easier to be treated well if you treat others the same.
In the spirit of great hospitality, Country Inns & Suites By Carlson offers these tips on making travel a better experience for everyone.
In the air
At the hotel
With more than 970 locations in 71 countries and five hotel brands, including Radisson Hotels & Resorts and Country Inns & Suites, Carlson Hotels Worldwide is a leading authority in leisure and business travel.
SOURCE: Carlson Hotels Worldwide
Whether you're stranded in an airport, stuck on a long flight, or staying in a full-to-capacity hotel, keeping your cool and using the Golden Rule is essential. Remember, it's easier to be treated well if you treat others the same.
In the spirit of great hospitality, Country Inns & Suites By Carlson offers these tips on making travel a better experience for everyone.
In the air
- Carrying-on: If you can't lift it, check it. With a true carry-on, try to stow it in the general vicinity of your seat. Don't insist that the overhead bin directly above your seat is yours. As long as your bag is close by, you'll be able to retrieve it with minimal intrusion on other passengers. Carry on valuables, one set of clothes and important medicines, but be sure to follow TSA rules on liquids.
- Look before you lean: One of air passengers' biggest pet peeves is having the person in front suddenly shove the seat back. This causes spilled drinks, flying laptops and a great deal of ill will from the person getting squashed. If you really need to recline your seat, politely let the person behind you know.
- Armrest wrestling: To make sure everyone has at least a little arm support, the passengers in the window seat and aisle seat should each get one outside armrest and the passenger in the middle seat gets access to both of the middle ones.
At the hotel
- Check it out at check-in: As soon as you get into your room, check to see whether you need more pillows, towels, blankets, etc. If you do, call housekeeping right away. If there are any issues with your room, contact guest services immediately. Calling late at night when there is a reduced staff may cause delays.
- Disturbing the peace: If you arrive late at night or leave early in the morning, be considerate of those still sleeping. If there is a disturbance late at night, don't try to straighten it out yourself. Call the front desk.
- Booking a hotel with a fitness room and pool for exercise helps alleviate stress and promotes a good night's sleep. Just make sure you apply the golden rule and limit your time on equipment like a treadmill, or workout at times when room is less used.
With more than 970 locations in 71 countries and five hotel brands, including Radisson Hotels & Resorts and Country Inns & Suites, Carlson Hotels Worldwide is a leading authority in leisure and business travel.
SOURCE: Carlson Hotels Worldwide
Is Buying a Timeshare Right for Me?
A Few Questions to Ask Yourself to See If Buying a Timeshare Might Be Right for You
People are buying timeshares in record number. As the price of hotels continues to go up, people are turning more and more to an alternative way of taking their summer vacations. In addition, the large hotel chains are noticing this difference and responding by providing larger, more luxurious condo resorts to make their timeshare programs more attractive. As a former timeshare professional, buying a timeshare is definitely not for everyone. But if owning a timeshare is something that has interested you, then here are some simple questions to ask yourself to see if owning a timeshare would be right for you.
Do you like to travel? This may sound silly, but there are definitely people who don't like to travel, so obviously they should not buy a timeshare.
What type of accommodations do you prefer to stay in? Most timeshare resorts are full scale condominiums that are fully furnished, stocked kitchens, washer/dryer, and all the conveniences of home. One advantage of this setup is that it allows you to save a lot of money by giving you the option to eat in and cook instead of having to eat out every meal. But I do realize this is not appealing to everyone.
What types of places do you like to vacation? You can find timeshare resorts in just about every single major travel destination in the world. But if you have a few favorite places you go year after year, then make sure the timeshare program you are looking into has resorts in that area. But if you like to stay off the beaten path in more remote locations, then purchasing a timeshare for your vacations is probably not a good idea.
How many nights a year do you typically vacation? If you vacation for a combined total of 7 nights throughout the year, where you pay for a hotel, then timeshare is definitely something you should consider. If you travel less than 7 nights per year, then a timeshare would not be worth your while in my opinion.
How much do you typically spend per night on a hotel? This is a big factor in determining if a timeshare is right for you. If you are looking for the cheapest place you can find and paying $50 is painful for you, then a timeshare is not for you. But if you enjoy staying in nicer places and pay between $100 - $200 per night, then timeshare might be something you should consider. Let's do some math.
The typical cost to purchase an ownership in a timeshare company that would allow a family of 4 to stay for 7 nights every year would cost anywhere between $15,000 and $20,000 depending upon the company. This may seem like a lot of money, but let's consider the alternative of staying in hotels. Let's say this same family spends on average $100 per night. That would equal $700 per year. In the next 20 years, they would spend $14,000. This is assuming that there is no inflation. Also, this is assuming they are only renting one hotel room and for any family that has two teenagers, they can attest to how uncomfortable it can be for two parents, a 17 year old girl and a 15 year old boy to be sharing one room with two beds for an entire week! So eventually this same family will have to rent 2 rooms, doubling the cost for at least a few years of their families summer vacation. In addition, they will have to eat out every meal in a hotel while in a timeshare they can save money by cooking meals in.
The bottom line is that a family of 4 who spends only 7 nights a year in a hotel would have spent well over $20,000 in their 20 years of vacationing. If they had put that same $20,000 into a timeshare, they would be able to vacation for the rest of their lives and not pay anymore money! They wouldn't be subject to inflation and plus they could give it to their kids and their kids could vacation for the rest of their lives as well.
Hopefully this has helped you understand the ins and outs of timeshare and helped you think about whether buying a timeshare is right for you.
Source
People are buying timeshares in record number. As the price of hotels continues to go up, people are turning more and more to an alternative way of taking their summer vacations. In addition, the large hotel chains are noticing this difference and responding by providing larger, more luxurious condo resorts to make their timeshare programs more attractive. As a former timeshare professional, buying a timeshare is definitely not for everyone. But if owning a timeshare is something that has interested you, then here are some simple questions to ask yourself to see if owning a timeshare would be right for you.
Do you like to travel? This may sound silly, but there are definitely people who don't like to travel, so obviously they should not buy a timeshare.
What type of accommodations do you prefer to stay in? Most timeshare resorts are full scale condominiums that are fully furnished, stocked kitchens, washer/dryer, and all the conveniences of home. One advantage of this setup is that it allows you to save a lot of money by giving you the option to eat in and cook instead of having to eat out every meal. But I do realize this is not appealing to everyone.
What types of places do you like to vacation? You can find timeshare resorts in just about every single major travel destination in the world. But if you have a few favorite places you go year after year, then make sure the timeshare program you are looking into has resorts in that area. But if you like to stay off the beaten path in more remote locations, then purchasing a timeshare for your vacations is probably not a good idea.
How many nights a year do you typically vacation? If you vacation for a combined total of 7 nights throughout the year, where you pay for a hotel, then timeshare is definitely something you should consider. If you travel less than 7 nights per year, then a timeshare would not be worth your while in my opinion.
How much do you typically spend per night on a hotel? This is a big factor in determining if a timeshare is right for you. If you are looking for the cheapest place you can find and paying $50 is painful for you, then a timeshare is not for you. But if you enjoy staying in nicer places and pay between $100 - $200 per night, then timeshare might be something you should consider. Let's do some math.
The typical cost to purchase an ownership in a timeshare company that would allow a family of 4 to stay for 7 nights every year would cost anywhere between $15,000 and $20,000 depending upon the company. This may seem like a lot of money, but let's consider the alternative of staying in hotels. Let's say this same family spends on average $100 per night. That would equal $700 per year. In the next 20 years, they would spend $14,000. This is assuming that there is no inflation. Also, this is assuming they are only renting one hotel room and for any family that has two teenagers, they can attest to how uncomfortable it can be for two parents, a 17 year old girl and a 15 year old boy to be sharing one room with two beds for an entire week! So eventually this same family will have to rent 2 rooms, doubling the cost for at least a few years of their families summer vacation. In addition, they will have to eat out every meal in a hotel while in a timeshare they can save money by cooking meals in.
The bottom line is that a family of 4 who spends only 7 nights a year in a hotel would have spent well over $20,000 in their 20 years of vacationing. If they had put that same $20,000 into a timeshare, they would be able to vacation for the rest of their lives and not pay anymore money! They wouldn't be subject to inflation and plus they could give it to their kids and their kids could vacation for the rest of their lives as well.
Hopefully this has helped you understand the ins and outs of timeshare and helped you think about whether buying a timeshare is right for you.
Source
A Timeshare Insider Answers the Basics About What a Timeshare is and is Not
What Exactly is a "Timeshare?"
The word "timeshare" unfortunately has left a bad taste in many people's mouth primarily because of the slick, often unprofessional, high pressure way in which it was sold. Much of that has changed now, but the stigma still remains. But I also know that out of my friends and family, up until recently when I started to sell timeshare that very few of them actually knew what it was. So after educating my friends and family on what timeshare is and is not, I thought I would write this article to help others understand what a timeshare is and if it is right for you.
Timeshare was started back in the 1960's in Europe as most of Europe traditionally takes summer vacations for several weeks at a time. So many people would go stay in hotels on the beach for 4-6 weeks. After a while, a group of entrepreneurs thought there must be a better way than "renting" a hotel when they go there as often as they do. So friends started getting together and buying apartments to use while on their summer vacation and each family would get to use the apartment for a certain amount of time. The more you paid towards the purchase price, the more you got to use the apartment, thus the beginning of "timesharing".
At its core, the timeshare or vacation ownership industry (as it is now called) has changed very little. You purchase a "share" in either a single resort or a network of resorts. You can then use that share every year to go stay in resorts around the world at no cost. And similar to before, the larger the share you purchase, the longer you can stay, the larger the room you can get, and the nicer the resort and season you can travel in.
In today's world of timeshare, most timeshare companies have gone to a points system to allow timeshare owners more flexibility. Instead of being locked into the same time and same place as our friends in Europe started out, you usually will now have the option to use your "points" to stay 1 day or 5 days, in Maui or in Florida, in a 1 bedroom or 3 bedroom condo, your choice. So they really have tried to create a more flexible summer vacation experience for people as lack of flexibility had long been the Achilles heal for the timeshare industry.
Overall, owning a timeshare is great if you use it, but a waste of money if you don't. So if you are going to buy one, make sure you get out there and go on vacation!
Source
The word "timeshare" unfortunately has left a bad taste in many people's mouth primarily because of the slick, often unprofessional, high pressure way in which it was sold. Much of that has changed now, but the stigma still remains. But I also know that out of my friends and family, up until recently when I started to sell timeshare that very few of them actually knew what it was. So after educating my friends and family on what timeshare is and is not, I thought I would write this article to help others understand what a timeshare is and if it is right for you.
Timeshare was started back in the 1960's in Europe as most of Europe traditionally takes summer vacations for several weeks at a time. So many people would go stay in hotels on the beach for 4-6 weeks. After a while, a group of entrepreneurs thought there must be a better way than "renting" a hotel when they go there as often as they do. So friends started getting together and buying apartments to use while on their summer vacation and each family would get to use the apartment for a certain amount of time. The more you paid towards the purchase price, the more you got to use the apartment, thus the beginning of "timesharing".
At its core, the timeshare or vacation ownership industry (as it is now called) has changed very little. You purchase a "share" in either a single resort or a network of resorts. You can then use that share every year to go stay in resorts around the world at no cost. And similar to before, the larger the share you purchase, the longer you can stay, the larger the room you can get, and the nicer the resort and season you can travel in.
In today's world of timeshare, most timeshare companies have gone to a points system to allow timeshare owners more flexibility. Instead of being locked into the same time and same place as our friends in Europe started out, you usually will now have the option to use your "points" to stay 1 day or 5 days, in Maui or in Florida, in a 1 bedroom or 3 bedroom condo, your choice. So they really have tried to create a more flexible summer vacation experience for people as lack of flexibility had long been the Achilles heal for the timeshare industry.
Overall, owning a timeshare is great if you use it, but a waste of money if you don't. So if you are going to buy one, make sure you get out there and go on vacation!
Source
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Sustainable Travel is Both Socially and Ecologically Responsible
Sustainable travel really has no universal definition. It's more of a mindset of caring and respecting local people as well as the environment. Many people are already somewhat engaged in sustainable tourism by avoiding the crowds and major tourist destinations. It's mindful travel that advocates treating others as we would like to be treated, whether traveling domestically or abroad.
The idea also evolves around leaving the travel destination (both the people and the environment) unchanged and perhaps better upon departure. As travel places lose their identity. - like traveling across the country or the around the world for that matter, only to have nearly the same experiences as those in our own backyard so to speak.
A major theme in sustainable travel is to really get to know the local people and their own idiosyncrasies. And this can best be accomplished by staying off the beaten path, so to speak, and choosing instead to visit outskirts and more outlying areas away from metropolises.
For instance, most people are very tied to mobile devices for communications and convenience. And nearly all of these toys require batteries, albeit miniature. As a sustainable traveler, the right thing to do is make sure the batteries and other disposables return home with us and not dumped of left behind at the travel destination. Disposables are anything including plastic, glass, and aluminum, etc.
- At a minimum, find a recycling center where these and other items like newspapers are more responsibly discarded.
Sustainable travel basically follows that age-old saying "Waste not, want not. For example, when staying at a hotel, don't leave on electrical items (like the TV or the lights) when not in use.
Further, instead of always taking a taxi or driving everywhere, jump on public transportation, or ride a bike, or simply just walk. (I know, egad!) Try it, you may come to like it.
In a different vein, try to purchase or barter exchange items that are important to the sustenance of a particular culture. And when making a purchase, lighten up a little and offer a fairer price instead of a hard push for a bargain.
Some alternative travel ideas that help in raising awareness around sustainable travel are river cruises, archeological tours, anthropology tours and even volunteer tours. These can be far more memorable and fulfilling than (another) trip at a popular theme park. (Don't get me wrong, theme parks are fine destinations) But responsible travel starts at home. Find out if the travel agency and destination facilities have conservation policies and hire majority of local residents, etc.
Hopefully, more and more people will become savvy by actively seeking those companies that readily support sustainable travel.
By Dee Boston
The idea also evolves around leaving the travel destination (both the people and the environment) unchanged and perhaps better upon departure. As travel places lose their identity. - like traveling across the country or the around the world for that matter, only to have nearly the same experiences as those in our own backyard so to speak.
A major theme in sustainable travel is to really get to know the local people and their own idiosyncrasies. And this can best be accomplished by staying off the beaten path, so to speak, and choosing instead to visit outskirts and more outlying areas away from metropolises.
For instance, most people are very tied to mobile devices for communications and convenience. And nearly all of these toys require batteries, albeit miniature. As a sustainable traveler, the right thing to do is make sure the batteries and other disposables return home with us and not dumped of left behind at the travel destination. Disposables are anything including plastic, glass, and aluminum, etc.
- At a minimum, find a recycling center where these and other items like newspapers are more responsibly discarded.
Sustainable travel basically follows that age-old saying "Waste not, want not. For example, when staying at a hotel, don't leave on electrical items (like the TV or the lights) when not in use.
Further, instead of always taking a taxi or driving everywhere, jump on public transportation, or ride a bike, or simply just walk. (I know, egad!) Try it, you may come to like it.
In a different vein, try to purchase or barter exchange items that are important to the sustenance of a particular culture. And when making a purchase, lighten up a little and offer a fairer price instead of a hard push for a bargain.
Some alternative travel ideas that help in raising awareness around sustainable travel are river cruises, archeological tours, anthropology tours and even volunteer tours. These can be far more memorable and fulfilling than (another) trip at a popular theme park. (Don't get me wrong, theme parks are fine destinations) But responsible travel starts at home. Find out if the travel agency and destination facilities have conservation policies and hire majority of local residents, etc.
Hopefully, more and more people will become savvy by actively seeking those companies that readily support sustainable travel.
By Dee Boston
Visit Royal Academy of Arts in London
The Royal Academy of Arts is located on the famous Piccadilly Street, London England. If your summer vacation includes traveling abroad and you enjoy art at its finest, plan to visit The Royal Academy of Arts.
History of the Royal Academy
Competition between two architects, Sir Joseph Palmer and James Paine, and rivalry with the Society of Artists led to the creation of the Royal Academy in 1768 with the help of King George III. Currently the Royal Academy of Arts is led by a group of approximately eighty practicing painters, sculptors, engravers, printmakers, draftsmen and architects. Each of these individuals must be professionally active. The Royal Academy requires that there must be at least 14 sculptors, 12 architects, 8 printmakers and 46 painters to satisfy the requirement of 80 academicians.
Privately Supported
The Royal Academy of Arts does not receive financial help from the British government but promotes the appreciation of visual arts by exhibitions for public viewing that are comparable to National Gallery and Tate Gallery exhibitions. Private individuals contribute through Friends of the Royal Academy as well as other support opportunities. The Royal Academy of Arts is a registered charity and has approximately 85,000 friends.
First Exhibitions
The earliest exhibitions of the Royal Academy of Arts were held in Pall Mall. In 1780 exhibitions were placed in Somerset House; in 1836 the government granted the east wing of the National Gallery to the Royal Academy; and in 1869 the Royal Academy of Arts moved to Burlington House, the present building that was purchased by the Crown in 1854. The structure contains 12 galleries that resemble a hollow square.
Annual Exhibition
An annual summer exhibition is open to all artists with the purpose of financing the training of young artists in Royal Academy schools. This annual exhibition has occurred every year (summer) since 1769 and attracts around 10,000 exhibitions. Each artist can exhibit no more than eight works that have not been previously shown in London. Many artists sell their works at this exhibition with the Royal Academy receiving a small percentage. The summer exhibition opens the first Monday in May and closes the first Monday in August.
Royal Academy Art School
The only three-year post graduate course in Britain is offered at the Royal Academy to sixty students studying drawing, painting, and printmaking.
By Betsy Cobb Wise
History of the Royal Academy
Competition between two architects, Sir Joseph Palmer and James Paine, and rivalry with the Society of Artists led to the creation of the Royal Academy in 1768 with the help of King George III. Currently the Royal Academy of Arts is led by a group of approximately eighty practicing painters, sculptors, engravers, printmakers, draftsmen and architects. Each of these individuals must be professionally active. The Royal Academy requires that there must be at least 14 sculptors, 12 architects, 8 printmakers and 46 painters to satisfy the requirement of 80 academicians.
Privately Supported
The Royal Academy of Arts does not receive financial help from the British government but promotes the appreciation of visual arts by exhibitions for public viewing that are comparable to National Gallery and Tate Gallery exhibitions. Private individuals contribute through Friends of the Royal Academy as well as other support opportunities. The Royal Academy of Arts is a registered charity and has approximately 85,000 friends.
First Exhibitions
The earliest exhibitions of the Royal Academy of Arts were held in Pall Mall. In 1780 exhibitions were placed in Somerset House; in 1836 the government granted the east wing of the National Gallery to the Royal Academy; and in 1869 the Royal Academy of Arts moved to Burlington House, the present building that was purchased by the Crown in 1854. The structure contains 12 galleries that resemble a hollow square.
Annual Exhibition
An annual summer exhibition is open to all artists with the purpose of financing the training of young artists in Royal Academy schools. This annual exhibition has occurred every year (summer) since 1769 and attracts around 10,000 exhibitions. Each artist can exhibit no more than eight works that have not been previously shown in London. Many artists sell their works at this exhibition with the Royal Academy receiving a small percentage. The summer exhibition opens the first Monday in May and closes the first Monday in August.
Royal Academy Art School
The only three-year post graduate course in Britain is offered at the Royal Academy to sixty students studying drawing, painting, and printmaking.
By Betsy Cobb Wise
Monday, June 9, 2008
Planning Your Walt Disney Vacation Online
Using the Internet to Plan a Trip Your Way
Back in the days when computers were the size of a refrigerator and blackberries were just fruit, people relied on travel agents and guide books to plan their Walt Disney World vacations.
Now add the easy accessibility of the Internet and planning methods have transformed. Where once a travel agent would call to book your trip for you, now you can log onto www.disneyworld.com and check out dates, resorts, tickets, and packages yourself. Using the Internet has become an easy way to book your entire vacation from the comfort of your own computer. Vacationers in the upcoming year will find the Internet will grant them access to nearly every aspect of a perfect Disney vacation
Book your resort. Playing with the pricing feature helps you pick the best dates, resorts and ticket options for your family and your budget. Simply make your choices, book your reservation, make your down payment and manage your trip reservation all online.
Research restaurants and Dining Plan. Check out restaurant descriptions, read about Disney Dining Plan features, and see how well it fits into the value of your trip. The Internet offers reviews and menus of every last restaurant and snack kiosk on property and can give you all the information you need before you've stepped foot in Florida.
Ticket options. Disney offers Magic Your Way park tickets and the Internet can help you compare features and prices. See which options work best for you and either add the tickets into a package with your reservations or order them separately online.
Learn about hard ticketed events. Disney World thrives on hard ticketed events at their parks and you can find information about these events online. From Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party to Pirate and Princess Party, there are many options to increase the magic of your vacation. Once you decide which you'd like to attend, several of the tickets are available for purchase online.
Book a rental car and airfare. Websites like Orbitz, Travelocity and Expedia have made booking everything for a trip easier and rental cars and airfare are no exception. Shop around for the best deals, but don't forget the rental car and airline websites where you can often find the lowest prices without booking fees.
Research and planning. Once your trip is booked, increase the excitement by frequenting message boards for Disney fans where you can read member trip reports and dining reviews and see live webcams from resorts. Exchanging information real time with other travelers can create an access to more information than you ever dreamed possible.
From start to finish you can satisfy nearly all of your vacation needs from your computer. There have been many additions to the Disney website in the last year and now in the upcoming 12 months, as more people become even more computer savvy, Disney will recognize the need and continue to add more features to their online reservation system. Do it yourself vacation planning will just continue to get easier, faster, and better!
By Jennifer Maxwell
Back in the days when computers were the size of a refrigerator and blackberries were just fruit, people relied on travel agents and guide books to plan their Walt Disney World vacations.
Now add the easy accessibility of the Internet and planning methods have transformed. Where once a travel agent would call to book your trip for you, now you can log onto www.disneyworld.com and check out dates, resorts, tickets, and packages yourself. Using the Internet has become an easy way to book your entire vacation from the comfort of your own computer. Vacationers in the upcoming year will find the Internet will grant them access to nearly every aspect of a perfect Disney vacation
Book your resort. Playing with the pricing feature helps you pick the best dates, resorts and ticket options for your family and your budget. Simply make your choices, book your reservation, make your down payment and manage your trip reservation all online.
Research restaurants and Dining Plan. Check out restaurant descriptions, read about Disney Dining Plan features, and see how well it fits into the value of your trip. The Internet offers reviews and menus of every last restaurant and snack kiosk on property and can give you all the information you need before you've stepped foot in Florida.
Ticket options. Disney offers Magic Your Way park tickets and the Internet can help you compare features and prices. See which options work best for you and either add the tickets into a package with your reservations or order them separately online.
Learn about hard ticketed events. Disney World thrives on hard ticketed events at their parks and you can find information about these events online. From Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party to Pirate and Princess Party, there are many options to increase the magic of your vacation. Once you decide which you'd like to attend, several of the tickets are available for purchase online.
Book a rental car and airfare. Websites like Orbitz, Travelocity and Expedia have made booking everything for a trip easier and rental cars and airfare are no exception. Shop around for the best deals, but don't forget the rental car and airline websites where you can often find the lowest prices without booking fees.
Research and planning. Once your trip is booked, increase the excitement by frequenting message boards for Disney fans where you can read member trip reports and dining reviews and see live webcams from resorts. Exchanging information real time with other travelers can create an access to more information than you ever dreamed possible.
From start to finish you can satisfy nearly all of your vacation needs from your computer. There have been many additions to the Disney website in the last year and now in the upcoming 12 months, as more people become even more computer savvy, Disney will recognize the need and continue to add more features to their online reservation system. Do it yourself vacation planning will just continue to get easier, faster, and better!
By Jennifer Maxwell
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Making Disney World Dining Reservations
Ah...a Walt Disney World vacation. Days of fun in the Florida sunshine and nights filled with fireworks. Planning the trip is a huge part of the fun and when you tack the Disney Dining Plan on to your vacation package, there is even more planning to be done. Disney World's version of dining reservations is the Advanced Dining Reservation (ADR). The ADR is a way to best use the dining plan to greatest advantage and can really enhance the overall experience of your vacation.
So how do you decide up to 180 days before your vacation where you want to eat? I've compiled a list of the who, what, where, when and how's to booking your ADR's and these tips can be used for your first trip or your twenty first.
Who? The first thing to do is think about your family. What kind of cuisine do you prefer? What experiences do you like? Are you looking for haute cuisine or a rip roaring good time? Do you want to stick with restaurants in your resort and the parks or are you willing to travel to other resorts? Do you like to experiment with exotic new tastes or do you prefer meat and potatoes? Getting a clear picture of the desires and style of the most important "who" in this vacation is a perfect starting point.
What? Here again we have a series of questions to think about.What kind of meals are you interested in booking? Are you looking at breakfasts? Dinners? A combination? Other "whats" to consider are buffet service or table service? Do you prefer the all you care to eat option where you walk up to a long self service line or where the server brings your food to your table and refills it as requested. Or do you prefer to stay away from the all you can eat all together and simply order off a menu? Do you want to enjoy character interaction with your meal or simply enjoy the company of your dinner companions? Understanding these questions will set up the framework for your reservations.
Where? "Where" is a two part step. Where do you find information on the restaurant choices and where do you then want to make reservations? Where to find the information? You can find places all over that will discuss and review Disney restaurants right down to the last menu item, price and description. A few places to begin are the library or the local bookstore. The Disney Unofficial Guide and the Official guide both have good information about Disney dining and you can read the books at your leisure. Other Disney travel guides cover the subject as well. But for the most detail? Simply hit your favorite internet search engine and type in the subject "Disney World Dining". You will have a plethora of choices to pick from and lists of locations and themes and menus to really get your choices made.
Once you've done your research, it's time to decide where to make the reservations. Here is where the answers to all the Who and What questions come into play. If you love the exotic and are willing to travel to another resort you may decide to head to the Animal Kingdom Lodge for dinner at Boma or Jiko. If all you care to eat buffets are an interest, Boma is your choice. If you prefer more upscale dining, Jiko would be the pick. You can find the rip roaring good old time with both an all you can eat skillet choice and other menu offerings at Whispering Canyon Café at the Wilderness Lodge. You can dine with Pooh and the gang in the heart of the Magic Kingdom at Crystal Palace. It's all out there for you to choose, and knowing what your family needs are will help you narrow down your list.
When? The first "when" to consider is when to make your reservations. Most restaurants will accept ADR's 180 days out from your trip. There are a few exceptions, so be sure to ask. The next "when" is choosing the time of your meals. If you make your calls early enough and have an average size party, you will be able to have your pick of times. Do you like to eat early and have the rest of the evening to play? Then try to book your meals around 5:00 or so. Would you rather stay in the parks all day and have a meal right before the end of your evening? Then 9:00 may be a good time for you. Reservations are made at ten minute intervals generally starting at 4:30 pm and going all night so you can usually select the best times for your vacation style.
How? You've picked the locations and done your research. Now you're ready to make the call. Keeping a spreadsheet in excel to track your ADR's will help you stay organized. Start with the date in the first column and then in each consecutive column add "restaurant name," "location resort/park), "time", "confirmation number". Pick up your phone and dial 1-407-WDW-DINE (939-3469). Have your credit card ready in case you need to secure any reservations. Some signature restaurants and packages will require this, but the majority will not. Let the Disney Dining cast member walk you through making your reservations, then verify your times and confirmation numbers on the spreadsheet, hit "save" and you are good to go.
When you make your ADR's, you can put as much or as little time into the process as you like. If you prefer quick and efficient, then by doing a little research and knowing your family needs, you can easily pick a few places, make a quick call and be all set for your trip. For those of you who love the planning process, information is out there in droves in books and on the internet where you can debate your choices down to the very tiniest detail. Having a spreadsheet is a great way to keep your information close, but if you forget it at home the resort concierge can print up a copy for you. Enjoy the ADR experience and happy Disney dining!
By Jennifer Maxwell
So how do you decide up to 180 days before your vacation where you want to eat? I've compiled a list of the who, what, where, when and how's to booking your ADR's and these tips can be used for your first trip or your twenty first.
Who? The first thing to do is think about your family. What kind of cuisine do you prefer? What experiences do you like? Are you looking for haute cuisine or a rip roaring good time? Do you want to stick with restaurants in your resort and the parks or are you willing to travel to other resorts? Do you like to experiment with exotic new tastes or do you prefer meat and potatoes? Getting a clear picture of the desires and style of the most important "who" in this vacation is a perfect starting point.
What? Here again we have a series of questions to think about.What kind of meals are you interested in booking? Are you looking at breakfasts? Dinners? A combination? Other "whats" to consider are buffet service or table service? Do you prefer the all you care to eat option where you walk up to a long self service line or where the server brings your food to your table and refills it as requested. Or do you prefer to stay away from the all you can eat all together and simply order off a menu? Do you want to enjoy character interaction with your meal or simply enjoy the company of your dinner companions? Understanding these questions will set up the framework for your reservations.
Where? "Where" is a two part step. Where do you find information on the restaurant choices and where do you then want to make reservations? Where to find the information? You can find places all over that will discuss and review Disney restaurants right down to the last menu item, price and description. A few places to begin are the library or the local bookstore. The Disney Unofficial Guide and the Official guide both have good information about Disney dining and you can read the books at your leisure. Other Disney travel guides cover the subject as well. But for the most detail? Simply hit your favorite internet search engine and type in the subject "Disney World Dining". You will have a plethora of choices to pick from and lists of locations and themes and menus to really get your choices made.
Once you've done your research, it's time to decide where to make the reservations. Here is where the answers to all the Who and What questions come into play. If you love the exotic and are willing to travel to another resort you may decide to head to the Animal Kingdom Lodge for dinner at Boma or Jiko. If all you care to eat buffets are an interest, Boma is your choice. If you prefer more upscale dining, Jiko would be the pick. You can find the rip roaring good old time with both an all you can eat skillet choice and other menu offerings at Whispering Canyon Café at the Wilderness Lodge. You can dine with Pooh and the gang in the heart of the Magic Kingdom at Crystal Palace. It's all out there for you to choose, and knowing what your family needs are will help you narrow down your list.
When? The first "when" to consider is when to make your reservations. Most restaurants will accept ADR's 180 days out from your trip. There are a few exceptions, so be sure to ask. The next "when" is choosing the time of your meals. If you make your calls early enough and have an average size party, you will be able to have your pick of times. Do you like to eat early and have the rest of the evening to play? Then try to book your meals around 5:00 or so. Would you rather stay in the parks all day and have a meal right before the end of your evening? Then 9:00 may be a good time for you. Reservations are made at ten minute intervals generally starting at 4:30 pm and going all night so you can usually select the best times for your vacation style.
How? You've picked the locations and done your research. Now you're ready to make the call. Keeping a spreadsheet in excel to track your ADR's will help you stay organized. Start with the date in the first column and then in each consecutive column add "restaurant name," "location resort/park), "time", "confirmation number". Pick up your phone and dial 1-407-WDW-DINE (939-3469). Have your credit card ready in case you need to secure any reservations. Some signature restaurants and packages will require this, but the majority will not. Let the Disney Dining cast member walk you through making your reservations, then verify your times and confirmation numbers on the spreadsheet, hit "save" and you are good to go.
When you make your ADR's, you can put as much or as little time into the process as you like. If you prefer quick and efficient, then by doing a little research and knowing your family needs, you can easily pick a few places, make a quick call and be all set for your trip. For those of you who love the planning process, information is out there in droves in books and on the internet where you can debate your choices down to the very tiniest detail. Having a spreadsheet is a great way to keep your information close, but if you forget it at home the resort concierge can print up a copy for you. Enjoy the ADR experience and happy Disney dining!
By Jennifer Maxwell
Get the Most Canadian Dollars for Your US Dollar in Foreign Exchange
The Canadian Dollar is currently worth more than the US Dollar. In 2002 anyone could get C$1.60 for each US dollar. Therefore, everything with a few exceptions like gasoline, was much cheaper in Canada. I used to go to the casinos in Niagara Falls on a regular basis and live like a king.
Due to the plummeting value of the devalued US dollar the Canadian dollar is worth more than US$1 today. Actually C$1 will cost you US$1.01 plus the foreign exchange fee which varies from place to place.
There is a way to increase the yield of US dollars if you live near a few rare coin stores. In my area of Maryland my local rare coin dealer buys many hundreds of pounds of foreign coins and bills per year. They pay a small fraction of foreign exchange for coins and a moderate discount on bills from Canada and many other countries where the currency is spendable. As a rule they do not bother to take in the small bills, the one and two dollar notes, to a Canadian bank. The banks will not even take the coins at all.
Therefore, when I am ready to make a trip to my favorite Canadian Niagara Falls destination, I simply buy all their coins, which they sell at a 20% discount. I also buy all their small bills which they sell at a 10% discount. Therefore I get as much as C$1.20 for each US dollar for the coins and C$1.10 for the bills. Last time I went I was able to buy almost $700 in Canadian money. I could have gotten much more by going to additional rare coins store, but I was only going for four days.
In addition to the better exchange rate there was no exchange fee. Since most of the money was coinage, I was able to get close to a 20% discount on Canadian money. I took all the coins and plopped them down at the casino cashier. They have counting machines and gave me the exact amount of chips that the coins could buy. I saved the bills for tips and other expenses since they are collectibles in Canada and the people love to get paid in the old paper money rather than the one and two dollar coins they refer to as Loonies and Double Loonies.
You may think that it is not worth the trouble, but I will gladly take a 20% discount on everything I buy there. If you think it is worth it feel free to use this idea. If not it will cost you $140 more to buy C$700. Either way I hope you have a great time in the Great White North.
By Stephen Joltin
Due to the plummeting value of the devalued US dollar the Canadian dollar is worth more than US$1 today. Actually C$1 will cost you US$1.01 plus the foreign exchange fee which varies from place to place.
There is a way to increase the yield of US dollars if you live near a few rare coin stores. In my area of Maryland my local rare coin dealer buys many hundreds of pounds of foreign coins and bills per year. They pay a small fraction of foreign exchange for coins and a moderate discount on bills from Canada and many other countries where the currency is spendable. As a rule they do not bother to take in the small bills, the one and two dollar notes, to a Canadian bank. The banks will not even take the coins at all.
Therefore, when I am ready to make a trip to my favorite Canadian Niagara Falls destination, I simply buy all their coins, which they sell at a 20% discount. I also buy all their small bills which they sell at a 10% discount. Therefore I get as much as C$1.20 for each US dollar for the coins and C$1.10 for the bills. Last time I went I was able to buy almost $700 in Canadian money. I could have gotten much more by going to additional rare coins store, but I was only going for four days.
In addition to the better exchange rate there was no exchange fee. Since most of the money was coinage, I was able to get close to a 20% discount on Canadian money. I took all the coins and plopped them down at the casino cashier. They have counting machines and gave me the exact amount of chips that the coins could buy. I saved the bills for tips and other expenses since they are collectibles in Canada and the people love to get paid in the old paper money rather than the one and two dollar coins they refer to as Loonies and Double Loonies.
You may think that it is not worth the trouble, but I will gladly take a 20% discount on everything I buy there. If you think it is worth it feel free to use this idea. If not it will cost you $140 more to buy C$700. Either way I hope you have a great time in the Great White North.
By Stephen Joltin
How To Plan For Your Perfect Vacation
Who doesn't love to go on a long relaxing vacation? We all do, but the problem with it is in selecting the right vacation destination. People often spend very much on their vacation which is not even far from their hometown. It is often considered a big headache to select the right travel resort for your vacation. After all the hassles in selecting the right spot, then raises your budget issue. There are too many things to consider when you select your vacation destination, like the distance, air fare, hotel reservations etc. You can always hook up to the internet for your hunt for the perfect vacation spot.
Every person actually saves a part of their hard earned income for that perfect vacation where he or she can have some quality time with family and friends. Even though you have planned for the vacation since a year, everything might go wrong at the time of the vacation. You should know every detail included in planning for a perfect vacation. Because, it is not easy to plan for a perfect memorable vacation as you need to keep every aspect in your mind and then go ahead.
You can't just blame anyone if you have lost a wonderful holiday opportunity, as there are many wonderful vacation deals knocking our doors every now and then; we tend to ignore most of them. But not to worry, you can always find the best suited vacation deal for you over the internet.
Nowadays, with the growing need of vacations, you can find every possible vacation destination packages over the internet. There are many deals based on various categories like cheap, luxurious, bay side, hill stations, ski resorts, cruises, adventure trips and much more. As there are many deals available over the internet for the same vacation package by numerous agents, you can go for the best deal by comparing their prices and facilities given.
Most of the vacationers opt for Walt Disney World as their first vacation choice. You can even find about Walt Disney World vacation deals very easily over the internet. There are plenty of other resources over the internet even for their amusement park packages, cruises and other packages. You can also search for the best cruise packages, honey moon packages and even for group travel vacationers like corporate vacation and student package. Do not forget to re-check the timings of the vacation package you have opted for, or just opt for the best suitable package for your schedule.
Simply managing the money to have a perfect vacation is not enough; you need to keep all these facts in mind to have a perfect memorable vacation.
Every person actually saves a part of their hard earned income for that perfect vacation where he or she can have some quality time with family and friends. Even though you have planned for the vacation since a year, everything might go wrong at the time of the vacation. You should know every detail included in planning for a perfect vacation. Because, it is not easy to plan for a perfect memorable vacation as you need to keep every aspect in your mind and then go ahead.
You can't just blame anyone if you have lost a wonderful holiday opportunity, as there are many wonderful vacation deals knocking our doors every now and then; we tend to ignore most of them. But not to worry, you can always find the best suited vacation deal for you over the internet.
Nowadays, with the growing need of vacations, you can find every possible vacation destination packages over the internet. There are many deals based on various categories like cheap, luxurious, bay side, hill stations, ski resorts, cruises, adventure trips and much more. As there are many deals available over the internet for the same vacation package by numerous agents, you can go for the best deal by comparing their prices and facilities given.
Most of the vacationers opt for Walt Disney World as their first vacation choice. You can even find about Walt Disney World vacation deals very easily over the internet. There are plenty of other resources over the internet even for their amusement park packages, cruises and other packages. You can also search for the best cruise packages, honey moon packages and even for group travel vacationers like corporate vacation and student package. Do not forget to re-check the timings of the vacation package you have opted for, or just opt for the best suitable package for your schedule.
Simply managing the money to have a perfect vacation is not enough; you need to keep all these facts in mind to have a perfect memorable vacation.
Chicago is a Grand Place to Visit
Chicago, Illinois is a grand place to visit!
Last summer, I got the opportunity to spend some time in Chicago. I am from Michigan, so it was about a 7-hour drive for me one way. I can definitely say that the long drive was worth it!
Once I was in Chicago I got the chance to visit the art museum there. It's a beautiful museum that has many fascinating pieces of art. I think the most interesting part of visiting the museum was trying to interpret what the artist was trying to communicate to the viewer in his or her painting... it was basically like trying to interpret poetry.
I also got to see the Chicago Symphony Orchestra play while I was in the city. They make beautiful music. It seems as if the music is coming from the heavens when they play.
Chicago also has many nice restaurants. My ultimate favorite was The Cheesecake Factory. Delicious cheesecake awaited me there, as well as scrumptious food. The prices weren't too bad, and the fact is that you can split a plate if you happen to have another person with you (which is what I ended up doing.) My second favorite had to be Gino's Pizza in Chicago. They have delicious pizza, and if you bring a special colored marker, or purchase a marker there, you can sign one of their walls. It's a pretty neat thing to be able to write on the walls of the establishment.
One final thing I really enjoyed was catching one of the concerts at the park. This is where many people gather to listen to many fine musicians play music. There's nothing like sitting outside enjoying the nice summer weather and taking in a concert while you're at it!
If you go to Chicago, be sure to bring some comfortable walking shoes. There is lots of walking to be done in that city. Some of my favorite stores to visit in Chicago were Barnes & Noble and Forever 21. Be sure to visit the Ghirardelli Chocolate Store while you're in Chicago. I purchased two chocolate bars from there and they were extremely delicious (make sure to try the chocolate caramel and chocolate mint flavors.)
In conclusion, Chicago is a great place to visit. Everyone should visit there at least once in his or her lifetime. Of course, I recommend visiting more than once, but at least try to visit once.
By Sara Ross
Last summer, I got the opportunity to spend some time in Chicago. I am from Michigan, so it was about a 7-hour drive for me one way. I can definitely say that the long drive was worth it!
Once I was in Chicago I got the chance to visit the art museum there. It's a beautiful museum that has many fascinating pieces of art. I think the most interesting part of visiting the museum was trying to interpret what the artist was trying to communicate to the viewer in his or her painting... it was basically like trying to interpret poetry.
I also got to see the Chicago Symphony Orchestra play while I was in the city. They make beautiful music. It seems as if the music is coming from the heavens when they play.
Chicago also has many nice restaurants. My ultimate favorite was The Cheesecake Factory. Delicious cheesecake awaited me there, as well as scrumptious food. The prices weren't too bad, and the fact is that you can split a plate if you happen to have another person with you (which is what I ended up doing.) My second favorite had to be Gino's Pizza in Chicago. They have delicious pizza, and if you bring a special colored marker, or purchase a marker there, you can sign one of their walls. It's a pretty neat thing to be able to write on the walls of the establishment.
One final thing I really enjoyed was catching one of the concerts at the park. This is where many people gather to listen to many fine musicians play music. There's nothing like sitting outside enjoying the nice summer weather and taking in a concert while you're at it!
If you go to Chicago, be sure to bring some comfortable walking shoes. There is lots of walking to be done in that city. Some of my favorite stores to visit in Chicago were Barnes & Noble and Forever 21. Be sure to visit the Ghirardelli Chocolate Store while you're in Chicago. I purchased two chocolate bars from there and they were extremely delicious (make sure to try the chocolate caramel and chocolate mint flavors.)
In conclusion, Chicago is a great place to visit. Everyone should visit there at least once in his or her lifetime. Of course, I recommend visiting more than once, but at least try to visit once.
By Sara Ross
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Switzerland Hotels are really cheap
Situated in the central region of Europe, Switzerland is among the most sought after holiday destination. The country of Switzerland is best acknowledged for its mountainous range (Jura in northwest, Alps in south) but if you ever happen to visit the place you would realize that the region is dotted with many pretty lakes, plains, hills and pastures.
Although Switzerland is a beautiful destination all through the year, summer is most suitable if you are looking forward to spend some time outdoor and indulge in open-air activities. Summer in Switzerland begins from June and ends in the month of September. Being the peak tourist season, during this time around you will find a heavy crowd of tourist and visitors. Prices of hotels in Switzerland soar very high, availability of hotel rooms dip and places of interest becomes crowded. But if you visit Switzerland during the months of April to May and from late September to October, you will find relatively much rates and less crowded places of interest, restaurants, hotels and location. If you are looking forward to indulge in winter sports then do check into any of the resorts located in the region of Alps.
To name a few places and cities to visit in Switzerland we have:
Bern
Among the most charming cities of Switzerland, Bern is located on the banks of River Aare. Bern is high on attraction and surprises to visitors and tourists. An appealing city the hills, lakes, river streams and spectacular landscapes of Bern make it a wonderful traveler destination.
Geneva
Geneva City in Switzerland is among the world’s chief hub of international diplomacy. Home to the headquarters of several well known International Organizations, Geneva is a very important city. Boasting of many exciting places of interest, Geneva attracts hoards of tourist every year. From nice looking verdant public parks to colossally beautiful Cathedrals and awe inspiring structures… there is a lot to explore and learn in Geneva City.
Basel
The city of Basel is an attractive medieval town that prides itself on many a tourist attractions and places of interest. Globally applauded art museums built by the likes of Mario Botta, Herzog & De Meuron and Renzo Piano and architectural magnificence like Renaissance Rathaus (town hall), Romanesque Mьnster (cathedral), Spalentor (Spalen Gate), Kunstmuseum Basel and Mittlere Brьcke / Schifflдnde among others make Basel quite a holiday spot. Culturally and artistically rich the city can be called the Culture Capital of Switzerland. Just a walk down any street or avenue and you would come across at least one art gallery or museum.
Lucerne
Among the most sought after holiday destination, the city of Lucerne in Switzerland is a class apart. With beautiful landscape of mountains and good-looking lakeside views Lucerne exert a pull on millions of tourists and visitors each year. The best recognized lure of the city is Lake Lucerne from where Reuss River starts off. Well known for its quaintness and rich cultural life, the everydayness of Lucerne city is the true essence of the land of Switzerland.
Being a renowned holiday destination Switzerland boasts of many accommodations. Hotels in Switzerland are no doubt a class apart but besides these accommodations like lodges, inns, motels and independent apartments are also available. To lodge at Cheap Hotels in Switzerland is a great idea if your idea is to save on money.
Although Switzerland is a beautiful destination all through the year, summer is most suitable if you are looking forward to spend some time outdoor and indulge in open-air activities. Summer in Switzerland begins from June and ends in the month of September. Being the peak tourist season, during this time around you will find a heavy crowd of tourist and visitors. Prices of hotels in Switzerland soar very high, availability of hotel rooms dip and places of interest becomes crowded. But if you visit Switzerland during the months of April to May and from late September to October, you will find relatively much rates and less crowded places of interest, restaurants, hotels and location. If you are looking forward to indulge in winter sports then do check into any of the resorts located in the region of Alps.
To name a few places and cities to visit in Switzerland we have:
Bern
Among the most charming cities of Switzerland, Bern is located on the banks of River Aare. Bern is high on attraction and surprises to visitors and tourists. An appealing city the hills, lakes, river streams and spectacular landscapes of Bern make it a wonderful traveler destination.
Geneva
Geneva City in Switzerland is among the world’s chief hub of international diplomacy. Home to the headquarters of several well known International Organizations, Geneva is a very important city. Boasting of many exciting places of interest, Geneva attracts hoards of tourist every year. From nice looking verdant public parks to colossally beautiful Cathedrals and awe inspiring structures… there is a lot to explore and learn in Geneva City.
Basel
The city of Basel is an attractive medieval town that prides itself on many a tourist attractions and places of interest. Globally applauded art museums built by the likes of Mario Botta, Herzog & De Meuron and Renzo Piano and architectural magnificence like Renaissance Rathaus (town hall), Romanesque Mьnster (cathedral), Spalentor (Spalen Gate), Kunstmuseum Basel and Mittlere Brьcke / Schifflдnde among others make Basel quite a holiday spot. Culturally and artistically rich the city can be called the Culture Capital of Switzerland. Just a walk down any street or avenue and you would come across at least one art gallery or museum.
Lucerne
Among the most sought after holiday destination, the city of Lucerne in Switzerland is a class apart. With beautiful landscape of mountains and good-looking lakeside views Lucerne exert a pull on millions of tourists and visitors each year. The best recognized lure of the city is Lake Lucerne from where Reuss River starts off. Well known for its quaintness and rich cultural life, the everydayness of Lucerne city is the true essence of the land of Switzerland.
Being a renowned holiday destination Switzerland boasts of many accommodations. Hotels in Switzerland are no doubt a class apart but besides these accommodations like lodges, inns, motels and independent apartments are also available. To lodge at Cheap Hotels in Switzerland is a great idea if your idea is to save on money.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Know Before You Go: Airport Security Screening
When traveling through the airport you see and hear many upset and angry people in the screening area. It really does not have to be that difficult if you plan ahead and prepare your luggage appropriately. The person who is angry is the one who came unprepared and packed prohibited items in his luggage.
Liquids and gels seem to be the latest cause for grumbling at the screening checkpoint. The current regulations allow passengers to carry 3 ounce or smaller bottles of liquids and gels. The bottles must be placed in a one-quart, clear, plastic zip bag. One plastic bag per person is allowed, limiting the total you can carry. When you get to the x-ray place the zip bag in the security bin for screening, this will speed up the process. If you leave the liquids in your bag, your bag will be flagged and searched.
There are some exceptions to the liquids and gels rule. Baby items such as food, formula, juice and breast milk are allowed in larger quantities. They will allow "reasonable quantities", no true amount is given, just pack what you feel you will need for the flight. Medications are also allowed and are subject to the "reasonable quantities" rule. Be sure to declare these items during screening to the make the process fast and painless.
Keeping other prohibited items out of your carry on will also make for a much more pleasant screening process. Sharp objects such as knives, ice picks, razor blades swords and sabers are not allowed as a carry on. These items are allowed in checked baggage, but should be packed appropriately or sheathed to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors. Sporting goods such as baseball bats, cricket bats, golf clubs, hockey sticks and more are not allowed as carry ons. No firearms can be carried on as well as self defense items, but they may be in checked baggage. Tools greater than 7 inches in length are also prohibited. Flammables and explosives are not permitted in carry on or checked baggage, with the exception of certain lighters, which may be carried on if they meet the current regulations. Check the TSA website for a current list of prohibited items before you travel.
Knowing what to expect during the screening process will make the process smoother. Pack your bags neatly and organized to allow the screener to see what is inside should a bag check be called. Have ID and boarding pass in hand as you approach the checkpoint. Coats and shoes must be removed and placed in a security bin for inspection. Over-sized electronic items should also be placed in a separate bin for screening. Do not wear bulky or baggie clothing to the airport and remember to remove all loose metal from your clothing and pockets. If you are selected for further screening be patient and courteous, this will speed the process along.
Remember the most important thing is to be prepared and enjoy your trip. Be sure to check the TSA website for the latest information on prohibited items and security information.
By Jacky Welles
Liquids and gels seem to be the latest cause for grumbling at the screening checkpoint. The current regulations allow passengers to carry 3 ounce or smaller bottles of liquids and gels. The bottles must be placed in a one-quart, clear, plastic zip bag. One plastic bag per person is allowed, limiting the total you can carry. When you get to the x-ray place the zip bag in the security bin for screening, this will speed up the process. If you leave the liquids in your bag, your bag will be flagged and searched.
There are some exceptions to the liquids and gels rule. Baby items such as food, formula, juice and breast milk are allowed in larger quantities. They will allow "reasonable quantities", no true amount is given, just pack what you feel you will need for the flight. Medications are also allowed and are subject to the "reasonable quantities" rule. Be sure to declare these items during screening to the make the process fast and painless.
Keeping other prohibited items out of your carry on will also make for a much more pleasant screening process. Sharp objects such as knives, ice picks, razor blades swords and sabers are not allowed as a carry on. These items are allowed in checked baggage, but should be packed appropriately or sheathed to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors. Sporting goods such as baseball bats, cricket bats, golf clubs, hockey sticks and more are not allowed as carry ons. No firearms can be carried on as well as self defense items, but they may be in checked baggage. Tools greater than 7 inches in length are also prohibited. Flammables and explosives are not permitted in carry on or checked baggage, with the exception of certain lighters, which may be carried on if they meet the current regulations. Check the TSA website for a current list of prohibited items before you travel.
Knowing what to expect during the screening process will make the process smoother. Pack your bags neatly and organized to allow the screener to see what is inside should a bag check be called. Have ID and boarding pass in hand as you approach the checkpoint. Coats and shoes must be removed and placed in a security bin for inspection. Over-sized electronic items should also be placed in a separate bin for screening. Do not wear bulky or baggie clothing to the airport and remember to remove all loose metal from your clothing and pockets. If you are selected for further screening be patient and courteous, this will speed the process along.
Remember the most important thing is to be prepared and enjoy your trip. Be sure to check the TSA website for the latest information on prohibited items and security information.
By Jacky Welles
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Become a Green Traveller
So what have we got to do to be a green traveler? Well Ive scoured the net and put together a few ideas- you'll be surprised at how easy it is. Lets make 'Green Travel' more than just the latest buzz word.
The term 'Green Travel' probably makes you think of unshaven men in bad tracksuit pants taking a month long holiday in a tree house. But green travel is nothing that drastic, in fact it doesn't even involve much in the way of sacrifice- all it is is a bit of effort into preserving the environment around you when you travel. And with one billion tourists gallivanting around the globe each year, its becoming imperative that as the individual we go the little extra distance to contributing positively to slowing down climate change. Green travel is also about tuning yourself into the local culture of your holiday destination, respecting the way of life there and positively inputting into the community. So what have we got to do to be a green traveller? Well Ive scoured the net and put together a few ideas- you'll be surprised at how easy it is. Lets make 'Green Travel' more than just the latest buzz word.
1. Firstly, when you fly anywhere make sure you offset the carbon emissions of your flight. This is done by paying a minimal amount to a carbon offset company, normally less than fifty bucks.
2. Most carbon is emitted when planes take off and land. Take a 'no flight holiday', or reduce your stopovers.
3. Pack as light as you can - the lower the weight of the plane, the lower the energy it requires.
4. Ensure you have shut down all the appliances in your house that use electricity, such as the central heating.
5. Try to reduce the amount of driving you do. Catch public transport to the airport. When you hire a car, choose the smallest engine possible or a hybrid if available. Walk or cycle where you can!
6. When choosing a hotel, check out their water treatment system- avoid ones that pump their effluent out to sea.
7. Also try and choose a hotel that is locally owned and run. Make sure the staff employed are from the local community, and not foreigners. There should be some element of 'giving back' to the local community.
8. There are eco-friendly hotels out there, you just need to find them. look for energy efficient lighting, solar power units, and toilets and showers with flow restrictions.
9. Go easy on the air con! Only use it if really necessary, and turn it off when you go out. Try save water too- short showers, no baths, turning taps off.
10. Dont get room service- head out to a local restaurant. This way you sample the local culture, support the local economy and take the pressure off the hotel resources.
11. Dont make coffee in your hotel room. This leaves waste in the form of sugar packets, plastic milk containers, plastic teaspoons etc. Head out to the local coffee shop instead!
12. If given the choice, use glass cups or mugs and not plastic ones. Less waste.
13. Unless you ask them not to, your sheets and towels will be washed every day. This isnt really necessary and is a waste of resources, so leave that 'do not disturb' sign up.
14. Turn off any unused lights!
15. Bring your own toiletries instead of using the little plastic, packaged ones in the hotel. If you do use them, take them home and re use them.
16. If you are going on a tour, choose smaller ones because their impact on the environment is not so severe.
17. Make sure your tour guide is local, and find out how the tour gives back to the community.
18. If its a hiking tour you're on, don't veer off the marked trails and disrupt as little vegetation as possible. Give the local wildlife its space.
19. When snorkelling or scuba diving don't touch the coral, or try and interfere with the marine life.
20. Do a bit of homework about the traditions and cultures of the local people in the area you are visiting. Be sensitive to dress and behavior codes. For instance skirts of a certain length may be acceptable in some parts of the world, but in others they would be considered too short.
21. Learn a few words of the local language. This helps you bond with the people you interact with and is always appreciated by locals.
So there you have it - traveling green isn't going to kill you. Every little bit helps, so even if we can remember to do just a few of the things on this list we are going some way to benefiting the planet. So take it all on board and enjoy your green holiday!
The term 'Green Travel' probably makes you think of unshaven men in bad tracksuit pants taking a month long holiday in a tree house. But green travel is nothing that drastic, in fact it doesn't even involve much in the way of sacrifice- all it is is a bit of effort into preserving the environment around you when you travel. And with one billion tourists gallivanting around the globe each year, its becoming imperative that as the individual we go the little extra distance to contributing positively to slowing down climate change. Green travel is also about tuning yourself into the local culture of your holiday destination, respecting the way of life there and positively inputting into the community. So what have we got to do to be a green traveller? Well Ive scoured the net and put together a few ideas- you'll be surprised at how easy it is. Lets make 'Green Travel' more than just the latest buzz word.
1. Firstly, when you fly anywhere make sure you offset the carbon emissions of your flight. This is done by paying a minimal amount to a carbon offset company, normally less than fifty bucks.
2. Most carbon is emitted when planes take off and land. Take a 'no flight holiday', or reduce your stopovers.
3. Pack as light as you can - the lower the weight of the plane, the lower the energy it requires.
4. Ensure you have shut down all the appliances in your house that use electricity, such as the central heating.
5. Try to reduce the amount of driving you do. Catch public transport to the airport. When you hire a car, choose the smallest engine possible or a hybrid if available. Walk or cycle where you can!
6. When choosing a hotel, check out their water treatment system- avoid ones that pump their effluent out to sea.
7. Also try and choose a hotel that is locally owned and run. Make sure the staff employed are from the local community, and not foreigners. There should be some element of 'giving back' to the local community.
8. There are eco-friendly hotels out there, you just need to find them. look for energy efficient lighting, solar power units, and toilets and showers with flow restrictions.
9. Go easy on the air con! Only use it if really necessary, and turn it off when you go out. Try save water too- short showers, no baths, turning taps off.
10. Dont get room service- head out to a local restaurant. This way you sample the local culture, support the local economy and take the pressure off the hotel resources.
11. Dont make coffee in your hotel room. This leaves waste in the form of sugar packets, plastic milk containers, plastic teaspoons etc. Head out to the local coffee shop instead!
12. If given the choice, use glass cups or mugs and not plastic ones. Less waste.
13. Unless you ask them not to, your sheets and towels will be washed every day. This isnt really necessary and is a waste of resources, so leave that 'do not disturb' sign up.
14. Turn off any unused lights!
15. Bring your own toiletries instead of using the little plastic, packaged ones in the hotel. If you do use them, take them home and re use them.
16. If you are going on a tour, choose smaller ones because their impact on the environment is not so severe.
17. Make sure your tour guide is local, and find out how the tour gives back to the community.
18. If its a hiking tour you're on, don't veer off the marked trails and disrupt as little vegetation as possible. Give the local wildlife its space.
19. When snorkelling or scuba diving don't touch the coral, or try and interfere with the marine life.
20. Do a bit of homework about the traditions and cultures of the local people in the area you are visiting. Be sensitive to dress and behavior codes. For instance skirts of a certain length may be acceptable in some parts of the world, but in others they would be considered too short.
21. Learn a few words of the local language. This helps you bond with the people you interact with and is always appreciated by locals.
So there you have it - traveling green isn't going to kill you. Every little bit helps, so even if we can remember to do just a few of the things on this list we are going some way to benefiting the planet. So take it all on board and enjoy your green holiday!
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