With debate around environmental issues raging more than ever, you may want to consider taking an eco-friendly holiday. But you don’t have to travel to Africa, Essouira or some other completely obscure location to minimise your environmental impact. Here are some mainstream holiday destinations which you may not have considered for your eco holiday.
United Kingdom – The UK? Environmentally friendly? Really? Absolutely! Since the Green Tourism Business Scheme certified over 1,000 destinations and experiences in England and Scotland, the UK is quickly becoming a popular destination for eco travellers, with a growing number of green activities and accommodation options. ‘Bwlch Nant Yr Arian’ in West Wales is an old lead and silver mine which has been converted into a wildlife-friendly nature reserve and visitor’s centre. For eco-conscious accommodation, The Treehouse in Somerset, England, is made entirely out of wood, nestled in the tree tops on a small farm, but has all the creature comforts with a plasma TV, Egyptian cotton linen sheets and a cedar hot tub (that runs on a natural seaweed enzyme, of course). Flights to London are available on most major airlines, and visitors are of course encouraged to use eco-conscious travel options such as the train to travel around the UK.
Australia - If you’ve booked flights to Perth, combine luxury with efficiency and consider the new luxury walking holidays introduced by Auswalk 2011. Self-guided hiking trips will be offered around Western Australia’s Margaret River region, and allow walkers to gain coastal views of the natural landscape and wildlife. If you’re heading to Queensland, Atherton Tablelands is perfect for an eco getaway. This cool tropical rainforest plateau is great for bush walking, bird watching, horse riding, hot air ballooning, watersports and fishing. You can easily find cheap flights to Cairns, which is an hour’s drive from the Atherton Tablelands.
Canada – With beautiful natural scenery and landscapes, Canada is a perfect destination for those wishing to see the wilderness and nature without impacting the environment. Arctic Canada Wilderness & Wildlife Expeditions runs tours focused on giving you the most amazing views and experiences of nature while being non-disruptive to wild animals and plantlife. Sea Kayaking is another option if you want to see the Canadian wilderness by water while minimising your environmental impact. Flights to Canada are offered by major airlines, and be sure to do some skiing while you’re there.
For more environmentally responsible holiday options, there are plenty of eco-friendly holiday sites to help you plan your green adventure.
Saturday, June 30, 2012
Travel Green
Friday, June 29, 2012
Travel Phones
Unlocked Cell Phones
It is doable to use your individual cellular handset with a even though traveling internationally this will preserve you from needing to purchase a cellphone with your prepaid program. If your cell phone is an individual you acquired specifically from your carrier then it is most most likely "locked" to your network. It will not be probable, then, for you to use a SIM card from yet another carrier. A quick cell phone get in touch with to your provider, explaining to them that you are heading to get an international trip, can assist resolve this a lot of carriers will deliver to you the "unlock" code so that you can then use your cell phone on any network. Examine with your carrier, also, to make guaranteed that your certain cellphone will be suitable on the worldwide networks.
Chargers
If you are taking your cell cellular phone with you on a trip, no matter whether for organization or pleasure, don't neglect to get your charger with you. These functions are going to save you tons of income when you use the cell phone.
With this provider, you will be ready to use just an individual SIM card in a lot more than 160 distinctive countries. This can make travel not only less expensive, but easier as properly. In addition, you don't have to be troubled about signing any style of agreement or currently being hit with connection costs and concealed fees like several carriers have. The discount rates that you get on your roaming expenses are up to ninety percent lower. These cost savings are wonderful for folks who like to travel as perfectly as enterprise that are looking to reduced their total travel expenditures.
If you want the absolute very best in the enterprise when it arrives to journey phones then you have to glimpse no additionally than Roam4Less. These phones function in about 140 nations so they are best for the avid traveler and if you only journey once it is less expensive than renting. Plus you get to maintain the cell phone.
Have you ever before imagined how daily life would be with no a phone or, like now, a cellular phone? The telecommunication industry has grown by leaps and bound now to turn out to be an integral part of our every day existence. Distances are no lengthier threatening, and you are generally just a cellphone call away, wherever you may possibly be in this world. You can possibly opt for a pre-compensated card or a postpaid card. In both scenario, you need to read the great print carefully.
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Travel Bags
There are different-different kind of luggage bags available in the market like small carrying bags which are easy to carry and can be kept under the seats or overhead bins comfortably, Wheeled luggage bags offer you the convenience of rolling them out at airport, railway stations or bus terminals without much manual efforts. There are other bags also which are lighter and easy to carry with good carrying capacity, available in number of designs and size under the name of different brands, leather travel bags are the best ones if particularly we look at the long-lasting attitude of them, these bags are resist to wrinkles and wear and tear, Golf bags and cart bags are also available in different varieties and features, having number of pockets to make your carrying much comfortable and easier.
Though the traveling and luggage bags are more of a fashion and luxurious thing and status symbol, so before purchasing the travel bag always remember to check the manufacturing material and fabric, as it defines the durability of your travel bag. And always go for the brand name that you will not have to care about the quality of the product you are buying, and the foremost thing that you should be clear about is, your purpose for that you are purchasing the luggage bags so that you pick the perfect one for you, price is not more as constraint in your buying because you will find so many varieties and brands of the travel bags which are available at very affordable Travel Bags prices.
So, Now just don't think, go get the best suitable bag for you to make your trip fun, exciting and delightful. Happy journey!!
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Treatment for Traveller?s Diarrhoea
When the going gets tough, and when Traveller’s Diarrhoea already attacked your system, which is marked by increased frequency of loose bowel movements, abdominal pain, urgency to go to the toilet, nausea and vomiting, there is no place for disregard, instead immediate treatment must be done to ease the inconveniences and see to it that your trip—whether it’s a casual vacation or an important travel affair—would not be ruined.
Keep in mind that there is no vaccine intended for traveller’s diarrhoea or diarrhoea available today, but there are measures that you can take when you acquire it. Basically, people suffering from traveller’s diarrhoea (TD) have two major complaints which are abdominal cramps and diarrhoea, and diarrhoea treatment aims to kill the agents of infection, ease some symptoms that bring inconveniences and prevent serious case of dehydration, which is very dangerous to human’s system especially to young children, elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions. Since traveller’s diarrhoea is self-limiting and generally clears up after few days, here are the things that you must do while experiencing this condition:
AVOID DEHYDRATION
Because of too many fluid lost due to frequent bowel movements and events of vomiting, it is vital that those must be replaced. It is best to drink plenty of water (at least 3 to 4 liters a day), fruit juices such as apple and carrot, and soups. There is actually a formula recommended by World Health Organization (WHO) to prevent dehydration: 1 teaspoon salt combined with 8 teaspoons of sugar in 1 liter of potable water. for fluid replacement, WHO also recommend this simple formulation for fluid replacement: In glass A: 200 ml of orange, apple or other fruit juice + ½ teaspoon of honey + 1 pinch of salt; in glass B: 200 ml of water + ¼ teaspoon of baking soda. Then alternately drink from each glass until thirst is already quenched. They are good since they combine the goodness of potassium, glucose/ sugar, sodium and bicarbonate which are lost and needed to prevent dehydration.
Oral Rehydration Solutions or ORS are good supplements to replace lost salts and minerals in the body. ORS are important to children, elderly and those with cholera-like diarrhoea case because of their electrolytes and sterility. However, adults usually don’t get the benefits of the solution and have little influence on them, so soups and juices rich with salt and sugar are recommended. ORS such as Electolade, Dioralyte and Rehidrat are available in sachets and can be purchased at stores and pharmacies in almost all countries around the world. But, bear in mind that oral rehydration are not diarrhoea treatment, instead, they are just helping to get the fluid back into the body, replace salt, glucose and other important minerals lost.
TAKE ANTIMOTILITY OR ANTI-DIARRHOEAL MEDICATION
Taking antimotility drugs such as loperamide or codeine for initial treatment diarrhoea as it provides immediate symptomatic but temporary relief of traveller’s diarrhoea by inhibiting intestinal movements. These anti-diarrhoeal medications are deem helpful in long journey or embarrassing situations, by diminishing diarrhoea and cut down its duration thus reducing fluid loss, and also increasing fluid absorption by normalizing the transit through the gut and restoring normal stools.
However, it should not be used by person with active ulcerative colitis, bloody diarrhoea and fever (as it prevent the passage of bowel movements that will only keep bacterial infection and its toxic inside the body for longer period). Also, this diarrhoea treatment should be used with extreme precaution and not recommended for young children under the age of 12. In essence, antimotility agents are best used for people over 12 and under 75 years old and were previously in good health condition and not suffering from any grave illness.
ANTIBIOTICS
For serious cases of traveller’s diarrhoea, one can depend on anti-microbial or antibiotics. When the TD case is associated with nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, fever, and/ or blood in the stools, antibiotic treatment is best applied. In addition, those people who have serious medical condition and does not need any disruption during the travel (say, business trip or an athlete) will benefit from antibiotics are diarrhoea treatment since they kill bacterial or even protozoan infection immediately.
However, it is advised to consult a doctor first before taking antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin (best for bacterial infection) and metronidazole (effective for protozoan infection). And if you want rapid improvement for moderate traveller’s diarrhoea, combining antimotility (loperamide) with antibiotic is the answer.
Sunday, June 24, 2012
TRAVEL KASHMIR
Kashmir, located on the north-west region of India; world-renowned as ‘Paradise on earth' one of the most sought after tour and travel destinations in south-Asia. It is gifted with the sheer wonders of nature such as snow capped peaks; enchanting rivers, charming hill stations, peaceful lakes and aromatic flowers surely makes Kashmir a home of scenic beauty influencing tourists across the nook and corners of the globe. It is divided into three main regions- Ladakh, the plains of Jammu and Kashmir. The Kashmir tourism gives an opportunity to experience the wonders having lot of excitement and fun. You can see the Mughal gardens picturestic valleys and lakes and experience the life opportunity to visit the coolest region in India. If you want to explore the amazing beauty of Kashmir then you must not forget to visit the places mentioned below which has made Kashmir truly the most sought after holiday destination in India.
Kashmir is illustrious for its celebrated beauty.
It is always said that if heaven exists on earth, it is here in Kashmir. Kashmir tour packages cover all the striking places, such as Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg. It is the northern most state of India, which is primarily, divided into three regions namely valleys of Kashmir, plains of Jammu and Ladakh. Each county is beautiful in its own way. Whether tourists are looking for a weekend getaway to relax and indulge, special holidays with friends and family, a trip to your desired relaxing spot or a new escapade, Kashmir is the right destination. Kashmir is a land, to which one cannot be indifferent either you adore or you hate it.Nature has endowed Kashmir with implausible beauty. Staying luxuriously in houseboats on the beautiful Dal Lake in Srinagar, skiing in Gulmarg and Patnitop, witnessing majestic Himalayan peaks and Chinar trees turning russet in autumn while enjoying holidays in Kashmir is a mesmerizing experience. Dal Lake and Nagin Lake are tremendously gorgeous. These lakes also have striking Kashmir houseboats, which are firmly attached to the ground with all safety measures.
The tour packages for Kashmir are widespread and permit the travellers to visit a good number of places in such a small span of time. Numerous travel packages are obtainable, which are tailor made according to guest’s lodging and travelling needs and necessities. The duration of these tour packages completely depend upon the tour route and the several places to be travelled.
The travel junkie people looking for discounts can log on to dealsandyou.com for extraordinary discounts. Package for two is available for Rs2499 worthy of Rs 9000. Isn’t it superb?
If you are not aware of what dealsnadyou is and how to go about it. Here is little detail about it. Dealsandyou is group buying portal that features daily deal on the best places to eat, see, do and buy in some of the leading cities in India.
You can also visit us at www.dealsandyou.com and start shopping. Also Log on to our Facebook and Twitter pages http://www.facebook.com/SmartDeals and http://twitter.com/#!/DealsandYou too. You can shop through our FB shopping cart too and enjoy the various applications we have on our social networking sites.
Friday, June 22, 2012
Travel Lodge
What does one need when going on a trip? Travel tickets and a place to stay over night. Getting a convenient travel lodge with rebate prices in some great location where you are free of the daily life stress becomes a true chase for gold in the pre-vacation period. Tourism agents always have all sorts of packages for memorable vacations, but you need to do your homework too and decide what your expectations are before seeing what you are offered. Consider the next tips when in search of a quiet inexpensive travel lodge, and and ask yourself these questions for a good start.
Do you want to go on holiday on or off the peak season? Have you got an exact date you need to stick to? How much can you afford to spend on a travel lodge? How many people are going on the trip with you? Travel lodge is available with lots of hotels, motels and hostels offering accommodation with different levels of comfort, starting with regular amenities and finishing with five star services.
From travel lodge to travel lodge it is normal for the rates to differ, not to mention that discounts can only be negotiated when you pay far in advance for accommodation. Thus, some hotels even allow one the flexibility to book rooms twelve months in advance.Internet portals facilitate the finding of a travel lodge immensely, as many of them include travel-related menu options. But for such technologies we enjoy today, it could be impossible to find a decent cheap travel lodge in a short amount of time. So far we have referred only to holiday makers who need convenient travel lodge solutions, but there are very many people who have jobs that involve a lot of traveling, and they too enjoy the use of travel-related web sites. Some companies make their deals through rental contracts for a travel lodge in order to offer the commuting employees all the work conditions necessary.
The reservation for such a travel lodge is made only after a negotiation of the contract, particularly if the company requires the use of the travel lodge for an indefinite period of time. People in search of a travel lodge, who do not have the back covered by a corporation, should carefully look over several quotes before making up their mind, and fortunately web sites do allow comprehensive research making. As for the market trends, it is interesting to point out that there has been a reorientation in the travelers' preferences for cottages, when traveling to Europe and Great Britain in particular.
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Gogte Travels
Gogte travels is one of the leading operators offering bus service to the travllers. The company has its origin in Pune and offers buses all around Maharashtra. The company is very renowned among the travllers for offering efficient and comfortable fleet of buses. One can select from AC, non AC, sleeper Ac, Sleeper non AC buses as per the travllers requirement and budget of the traveller. The charges of these buses are very nominal and easily affordable by all class of the people. Gogte travels online booking is the best facility that company offers as it enables to make booking from the comforts of their house and offices. People from Pune as well as from all parts of India reach this city and then opt for this bus service to reach these marvelous destinations placed close to Pune or other states near Maharashtra. Gogte travel buses are readily available from most of the tour operators as one can also book it online sitting at the comforts of their homes and offices without paying extra amount to the agents.
Ajmer is flanked Aravalli Mountains which is easily accessible by trains and buses. Delhi Ajmer AC bus service allows the travllers to reach Ajmer comfortably. It allows you to select buses from Volvo, luxury bus, sleeper bus etc as per the requirement and budget of the travllers. Regular AC Volvo, deluxe as well as semi deluxe buses plies between Delhi and Ajmer and charges anywhere between Rs 400- 700. Booking of these Delhi Ajmer AC bus has become very easy with online bus booking services. You can pay using credit card/ debit card/ cash card or online bank account. Sangita travels booking also enable you book tickets in a very convenient manner with bus scheduling option offered on the main home page of the sites allows you to see the exact departures, arrival and the stop over’s of your bus schedules.
So next time if you are planning for a break from the hustle bustle of city life and want to visit the beautiful nearby tourist attraction of Delhi than opt for Delhi Ajmer AC bus service as this will offer you a comfortable and economical journey for your trip and create life long memories with your family and loved ones.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Travel Clocks
Travel clocks need to be adjusted according to the DST, that is, the daylight saving time, in each country. They come from all leading brands and need not necessarily be purchased in the particular country one visits. There are a large number of designs and models of travel clocks available which have become favorites owing to their looks and reliability. There are two main varieties of the travel clock; the traditional and the digital.
The conventional travel clocks retain their classic flavor and have a timeless appeal. With a durable body and clear dials, these clocks show time without extra readings, as in more modern versions. These are not fed by a battery which makes such travel clocks a hit with modern environmentalists. These clocks however are a bit clumsy to handle due to its large size. More modern versions of the traditional clocks are coming into the market. They are smaller in size and have the same features as their ancient cousins. A traditional travel clock is indeed a gadget which scores high on the utility factor.
The modern digital travel alarm clocks are sleeker makes of travel clocks. These are accurate and rarely ditch the travelers. These clocks come with a lot of extra inbuilt features like temperature reader and chronographs. The clocks can give perfect timings. These clocks have fitted LCD displays. With calendars and schedulers inbuilt with the time adjustment feature, these travel clocks record huge sales. Digital clocks run on batteries which are replaceable. A very easy on the pocket option, these travel clocks however, do not last very long. Keep batteries handy on a trip since one never knows when the power machine is to dump the functionality of the digital travel clock.
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Travel Jokes
Travel Jokes
1. Three brothers are sitting at the bar in a Moscow establishment. An older man is sitting at a table behind them and has obviously had too much vodka. He stands, walks up to the first brother and says,
“Your mother is a vicious, greedy woman!”
The brother tells him to shut up and go sit down.
After about 5 minutes, the old man stands and walks up to the second brother,
“I sleep with your mother whenever I want!”
Disgusted, the brother tells the old man to bugger off.
A few minutes later, the old man stands and starts walking towards the third brother. All three brothers turn around and yell,
“Dad, go home!”
2. You’re at a bad hotel when the bed mint moves.
3.
“Visi, Vermini, Vomnui” – I visited, I freaked, I threw up.4. The President’s Vacation
George and Laura Bush take a vacation to Crawford and decide to go the grocery store. In the checkout line, Laura recognizes the man working at the register as an old high school boyfriend. After chatting, they leave the store and George says,
“Wow, imagine if you had married him. You’d be married to a grocery store clerk now instead of the President of the United States.”
Laura rolls her eyes and says, “No. I’d be married to the President of the United States.”
5. “Veni, Veneri, Vamoosi” – I came, I caught a disease, I ran away.”
Typically, just the act of traveling produces more than a few funny moments. Get out there and go.
Rick Chapo is with Nomad Travel Journals - makers of writing journals. Travel journals are great travel accessories and travel gifts for student travel, family vacations and adventure travel. Visit NomadJournalTrips.com for more travel articles, travelogues and travel stories.
Monday, June 18, 2012
Rajasthan: A Traveller?s Dream
Lying on the north western part of the Indian hemisphere Rajasthan shares its borders with Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Pakistan. Encompassing within its territory the Thar Desert and Aravalli ranges it is the largest state within western Rajasthan.
Rajasthan the land of colours and ethnicity, the land which is a picture of heritage and tradition is also a land which ranks among the top most travel destinations for both the domestic and foreign travellers. The deserts, forts, hawellies, palaces, wildlife sanctuaries, bazaars, textiles, folk dances and the easy communication facilities all welcome people from distant places.
The deeply etched culture and its embellishments in the day to day life of the Rajasthan tours. The royal histories related with the whole of Rajasthan builds a background behind all the monuments and various palaces found here.
The most beautiful architectural specimen can be seen in the form of the city of Udaipur. Founded by Maharana Udaising II it was the first city of Marwar kingdom. The Lake palace which is the most soothing structure for the eyes covers an entire island in the Pinchola Lake. Many of the palaces here have been converted into luxury hotels. The experience of enjoying the beautiful scenery of the lake city can be taken through the Rajasthan tours.
Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan was founded by raja Sawai Jai Singh. The main tourist attractions are the Jantarmantar, Hawa Mahal, Amer Palace, the Albert hall museum and Lakshmi Narayan Temple.
Jodhpur is another famous city in Rajasthan and is also known as Sun City. It is also referred to as Blue city due to the blue painted houses around the Mehargarh fort. It was founded by Roa Jodha. Most visited destinations are Kalyan Lake and garden, Balsamand Lake, Masooria hill etc.
Mount Abu which is the highest peak in the Aravalli Range is another popular tourist destination also called ‘oasis in the desert’ as there are a number of rivers, waterfalls and lakes here. It is the only hill station in Rajasthan housing the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary. The famous Jain temple Dilwara is also located here .The Dilwara temples are a complex of temples carved of white marble. A number of Hindu temples are also found here like the Adhar Devi temple and Sri Raghunathji temple.
Every corner of Rajasthan is loaded with a variety of cultural and architectural dimensions which forms a traveller’s delight.
Saturday, June 16, 2012
Barcelona Travel
One of the known trading spots in Europe is Bilbao. This is the place that businessmen love to visit. Aside from the official trading agenda, they also get to enjoy the city's modernized facilities and infrastructure. The weather in Bilbao is extreme during the summer and winter seasons. You have to be prepared for extreme heat and the extreme cold during these two seasons. Although this may sound discouraging, when you get to Bilbao, you will enjoy what the city offers. It will be more than just trading and business. You also have a place to relax and express your interest, adventure and fun.
Things to Do
Shopping
If you are a shopping maniac, Bilbao is the place for you. There are good shopping destinations that will make you fill your shopping bags. You can visit the Mercado de la Ribera for its fresh produce.
Tour
Appreciate the beauty of the arts in a tour to Bilbao's monuments and museums. Visit the Guggenheim Museum and see the many different contemporary artworks of local and international artists.
You can also appreciate the grandeur of church architecture in Saint Vincent church, Basilica of Begona, Basque Museum and Santiago Cathedral.
Dining
Basque cuisine is what you will also enjoy in Bilbao. The many delicious Spanish dishes are available for your delight in the restaurants and bars in the city. It is a lively and active city for diners and for those who love to have night fun and enjoyment.
As Bilbao is known for trading and business, it is also a favorite by locals and tourists from all parts of the world. You will see the rich Spanish heritage, enjoy the best Spanish cuisine, explore the natural sceneries, and enjoy some fun and adventure as you take your vacation. This will be a trip that you will always remember as there are many opportunities for creating and capturing memories with friends and your family. The next time you will have to plan your next vacation, consider Bilbao in your list. It will be worth it.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Online Travel Magazine ? Incredible Source for Travelers
A superior travel magazine will motivate you to travel across the world, with guidelines on domestic as well as foreign destinations, with some suggestion that where you will find the delicious food, best cultural events and enjoyable outdoor activities on various offer. You will find various magazines for travel purpose. These magazines include tourists attraction of various destinations, air-fare, sight scenes, accommodation facilities, shopping options etc.
An incredible resource for adventurous and dynamic travelers, filled with attractive images of extraordinary places. If you're petite of ideas on where to take next trip, travel magazine will motivate you to travel at different destinations, with instructions on various destinations.
Travel magazine providing details about those places where you never visit. You will find travel tips that could save your valuable money wherever you go.
Not only students are interested in these types of magazines, it appeals to the travelers of all age group and gives you right information about that place where you want to visit. Once you read few articles you will be tempted to pack your bags and want to spend holidays in that particular destination that is given in the magazine.If travel magazine have certain advantages, it has some disadvantages also such as if we love to read only one section of the magazine then also we need to purchase magazine every month. It means the wastage of money as well as time.
Now, with the aid of Internet, you don’t need to purchase magazine every month. These online magazines are available all the time. There are many websites that offer free online travel magazine. You can access them any time and read all the necessary information about the travel destinations. They cover all the information like sight scene, tourists attraction, shopping, currency, modes of transports, accommodation, etc.
Octanmen is the popular online magazine that gives you right information about the destination where you want visit and consist of all the necessary details. They provide these magazines free of cost, so, you can access them anytime.
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Responsible Traveling
Responsible travel, eco-travel, sustainable travel - there are slightly different meanings to each of these travel phrases, but they do overlap.
The eco-tourist is concerned about how travel affects the environment. You might buy carbon offsets to compensate for your flight or make sure your hotel offers the chance to reuse towels. If you're hiking, you stay on trails and "pack it in, pack it out". You respect wildlife you encounter.
For sustainable travel, you want to make sure that your tour operator gives back to the community... that your travel helps to sustain the local culture, not destroy it. You use local guides, try to eat in locally owned restaurants so that the people in that area profit.
If you want them to protect animals in a national park, for instance, it has to be worth something to them... not just to some international tour operator.
If you're really motivated to do good when you travel, you can participate in volunteer vacations and build shelters for people who have suffered natural disasters. You can travel with medical organizations to take health clinics to remote locations that have no medical facilities.
To give you our definition, we think responsible travel means what it says.... you should be responsible for your impact on the environment, and responsible for the way your travel affects local people and their way of life.
We say over and over again that we think everyone can be an ambassador when they travel. You can show the people you visit that you care about their culture, that you understand them.... and by letting them get to know you, they'll learn something about your country that they can't learn from TV or newspaper or propaganda. That kind of responsible travel promotes understanding and understanding promotes peace.
When we went to a wedding in Pakistan, years ago, I remember talking with the father of the groom... the groom had gone to live abroad for many years, including several years close to us in the U.S. His parents were worried about the influence that our "foreign culture" might have had on him.
When they met us, they told us that they were so happy because, in spite of all of our differences, we were really just like them... not like some of those TV shows that they saw from the U.S.
Many small acts of responsible travel can add up and eventually, if we all work at it, they can have a positive affect on the way people understand each other... and might even start making the world a more peaceful place.
We rejoice in the differences we find when we visit new places. Responsible travel can infuse money into an economy and help people modernize, but maintain their cultures. We want to travel as gently and responsibly as possible so that the differences remain for the benefit of everyone for a long, long time.
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Travel Africa
It's impossible to capture the beauty of Cape Town in words or photos. It can only give a glimpse of the magic.
Long, long ago when the likes of Dias were traveling the seas to discover new countries the Cape was called the "Cape of Storms". Cape Town has very interesting weather patterns. Most of the times it is warm and sunny but when the "Suidoos" (the local name for the very strong South Eastern wind) starts blowing you have to hold onto everything you own.
Table Mountain is the best example of this unpredictable weather. The one minute it's open and beautiful and the next minute the misty clouds come blowing in. Within minutes a white tablecloth of clouds rests on top of the mountain.
But it doesn't matter how bad the weather is, there is always something to do. A big world city framed by the mountain on the one side and the ever changing ocean on the other side.
VICTORIA AND ALFRED WATERFRONT (V&A): Very commersialised and expensive but a total treat.
The vibrant atmosphere and energy is addictive. The aquarium is well worth seeing. If you have children it is a must. There is a touch area with a variety of sea plants that can be touched to get an idea of the textures. Feeding times you can watch the sharks having their lunch. There are great restaurants and coffee shops for the hungry. In the designer shops you can virtually shop till you drop.THE MOUNTAIN AND THE MOTHER CITY: The cable car is an experience on its own, with a rotating floor and magnificent views when going up and coming down the mountain. Phone in advance or check on the website if the cable car is going up. It is not always open. The weather can change in a second from great to foggy and cloudy. On the top is a restaurant and shop with great views.
Cape Town is full of historical buildings that are worth a view and great for pictures. In the famous Castle of Good Hope, you'll find examples of beautiful antique furniture. You can also experience the dark dungeons where prisoners were kept. It's horribly cold, pitch dark and small. You can take a guided tour at the Castle and get all the info on Jan van Riebeeck, the Van der Stel's, Lady Anne Barnard and everybody that was involved in the beginning years of the Cape.
There are also numerous historical church buildings. Take a drive through the city area on a Sunday or Saturday afternoon to visit all these buildings. During normal business hours the streets are too busy to find parking.
KIRSTENBOSCH BOTANICAL GARDENS: Don't miss this. You can pend a whole day and still haven't seen everything. You will only find indigenous South African plants like Protea, Fynbos etc. There is a path up Table Mountain from inside the gardens. We climb for a while but it is quite steep and we had no idea how long it would take. I wouldn't advise this unless you have all the info on hiking up to the top of the mountain.
The weather can change very quickly and then it is dangerous to be out somewhere on the mountain. On Sunday afternoons (late afternoon) in summer you can attend musical concerts. There is a nice restaurant or bring your own picnic basket. Lots of space for a picnic.
MALAY QUARTER The old Malay quarter or as it is called nowadays the Bo-kaap is worthwhile seeing. It is basically in the city. Drive in Wale Street to Green point. The area has been upgraded in a lot of places and property prices are rising sharply. It is conveniently located and has a great atmosphere. The houses are painted in bright colours and look festive. Streets are still cobblestone and narrow. From the top the view over Cape Town is amazing.
CAPE POINT: Contrary to some beliefs this is not where the two oceans meet. The actual meeting point is at Agulhas. Nevertheless Cape Point is an incredible experience. The last time we went there Chapman's Peak was closed due to rock falls and we took the road past Kommetjie and Scarborough. The whole area is a nature reserve. There are 2 200 different plant species to see, as well as a lot of smaller animals. You can take the funicular to the point or take a walk. It is a bit of steep to climb but do-able. The view is absolutely amazing. Stop at the Dias cross in the reserve. It is a big stone cross that commemorates his achievements.
GREAT CONSTANTIA: THE OLDEST WINE ESTATE
The history of the farm dates back to 1685 when it was granted to the first Governor of the Cape, Simon van der Stel, as an experimental farm for agricultural produce. Van der Stel named the farm "Constantia" and the produce of vegetables and fruit was supplied to ships that called in at the Cape. You can taste and buy the award winning red and white wines at the cellars. There are daily wine tours, tasting and buying of wines.
CLIFTON: THE PLAYGROUND OF THE RICH
Clifton is not for those scared of heights and narrow roads. The houses seem glued to the cliffs. They park on top of their roofs or so it seems. Any builder that can build a house here deserves a reward. Most of the houses are more mansions than houses and are worth a few million. Clifton is especially famous for its beaches but the water is still cold like the rest of the Cape waters.The small rock pools are excellent for children to play in and obviously not that cold. Unfortunately it is also the ideal spot for beach parties and some of these areas can be very dirty.
CHAPMAN'S PEAK: The view is worth paying the R22 toll fee on this road. You don't need to come back the same way. From Noordhoek you can take the Muizenberg road back to Cape Town. From Hout Bay go back past Landudno and Camps Bay which is the other beautiful coastal road.
KALK BAY: A tiny little place a few kilometers out of the city. The shopping experience is very different form that at the V&A. Here you will find individualistic little arty shops each with it's own character and style. If you are looking for something out of the ordinary, away from mass production, you need to visit Kalk Bay's main street. Cape to Cairo and Papagayo stands out but they are all worth a visit. The shops are so nicely decorated and painted in vibrant colours. There are also nice art galleries, a theatre and restaurants.
SUNSET ON SIGNAL HILL:
Instead of going up to the cable car take the road to the right and drive up Signal hill. Lovely sunset.
CENTURY CITY: Century City is a bit out of the city close to Milnerton. It is a lovely centre with each and every shop you can think off. Less designer stores than at V&A and obviously not that expensive. The MTN science centre is a hit with children. You can buy a family ticket and spend the whole day there. You get a stamp on your hand and can move in and out as you please. Make sure you attend the "camera obscura" session. It works with mirrors and even though you are inside the building you can see the reflections of the cars moving, the movement of the water in the canals and whatever is happening outside. All the other mall things are there like movies, places to eat, lots of chain stores etc, etc.....
MORE RESTAURANTS AROUND CAPE TOWN BLUES
Sit outside with a beautiful view over the beaches of Camps Bay and the very busy and interesting street running next to the sea. You'll see anything from a top of the range Ferrari to a "gedaan" (run down) taxi, a luxury tour bus to an old beetle. The menu offers seafood, pasta and a few grill goodies like hamburgers, lamb rib, steak etc. Nice cocktails and wine list. Excellent service.
MARINER'S WHARF (Hout Bay)
There is a beautiful upstairs area for a sit-down meal with spectacular decor. It opens at 12 in the afternoon. If you are too hungry to wait go to the open area downstairs. Get a box of real fish and chips and have a feast.
FARMSTALL, NOORDHOEK On the other side of Chapman's Peak is Noordhoek. The Farmstall has all the traditional South African cakes and pastries, like scones and milk tart.
This is but the tip of the iceberg and just a few of the exciting places to visit. Explore and feel like Dias with every new discovery.
Saturday, June 9, 2012
Travel Writing - How to Write Travel Articles
Writing articles about traveling is really exciting especially if you love to see other places and meet new people. Here's how you can become a travel writer:
1. Travel. You can't just be a travel writer. If you want to be more effective in this field, you've got to go out and really travel. See as many places as you can. This will not only require a lot of energy but money as well. Ensure that you have enough before you board that plane.
2. Keep a notepad and pen handy. You really can't rely on your memory when you traveling so, it's better if you have something to use to jot down every thing that you think your readers might want to know about.
3. Don't forget the pictures. It's not enough that you tell your readers that the place you've been to is spectacular. You need to incorporate some visuals to engage these people. If you have the resources, I recommend that you invest on a high-end digital camera as pictures will make a huge impact on your articles.
4.
Define your audience. Who are the people that you are writing for? Are you targeting those who are traveling on budget or those who can afford 5-star hotels? It's important that you know your audience early on so you'll know what information to share that will meet their needs and demands.5. Offer tips. Don't just talk about tourist spots as your readers can surely find these information everywhere. Instead, offer some tips and your discoveries. For example, you can tell your readers the most affordable accommodation or the best restaurants in a particular place.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Air Travel Principles: Traveling With Electronics
Relating to figuring out which electronics are prohibited aboard an airplane, you can find that almost all are allowed. In spite of this allowance, it's nonetheless a good idea that you simply consult with your airline or airport, in advance. Since maximum electronic models are dear, you not are looking to get to the airport only to be informed that you are prohibited from bringing your whole belongings with you, especially something as dear as most digital package.
As beforehand mentioned, many people keep a cell phone or pager with them always. All mobile phones and pagers are approved aboard airplanes. In addition to being approved onboard, they are allowed to be stored for your carryon baggage. Your mobile phone or pager, like maximum different electronic equipment, might be suspect to inspection, if want be.
Laptops and private information assistants, generally known as PDA's, are also approved aboard airplanes. You're additionally allowed to store them for your carryon luggage, in the event you decide to. If stored to your carryon baggage, your computer or private information assistant machine might want to be scanned along with the rest of your carryon luggage. This screening process is protected and shouldn't harm your accessories.
While the screening course of is protected for most digital package, it isn't for all. There's a chance that your movie, especially movie that has but to be evolved, could be ruined by means of the x-ray machines. Within the tournament that you are storing a digital camera in your carryon bags, it is very important notify airport security. They have different ways of checking your digicam or movie accessories. Other recording units, such as virtual cameras or camcorders, are also approved aboard an airplane, even to your carryon baggage. It's safe for this stuff to go throughout the x-ray screening process.
As beforehand mentioned, many of the above mentioned electronics can both be saved for your carryon bags or your checked luggage. If you'll be able to store the items for your carryon luggage, you might be urged to take action. It's no secret that checked baggage gets tossed around in a number of various fashions. With expensive electronic equipment, your package is much less prone to endure injury if you're the one in command of caring for it. In addition to a discount in wreck, most airways are limiting the use of luggage locks. Which means that it may be unwise so that you can shop expensive apparatus in your checked luggage, particularly if you cannot lock it. Honestly, you by no means know who may need get right of entry to to it.
Via holding the above mentioned data in brain, you need to be capable of pack appropriately in your subsequent journey, whether or not that trip is a business trip. Even if maximum airlines do not have restrictions at the digital machinery that you simply carry onboard, you can find that using these items is often limited. A large number of airways will handiest can help you power up your camcorder, mobile phone, pager, PDA, or laptop for the duration of specified instances.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Hampi Travel
Hampi is a very famous village, situated in the Northern Karnataka state of India. During the 14th century empire it was the kingdom of Vijayanagar. Now it is nestled within the ruins of Vijayanagar empire, hence sometimes it is also known as 'Ruined City', which is spread over an are of 26 sq km. Adorned with majestic hills and valleys it houses more than 500 monuments, which are listed as ''Group of Monuments at Hampi'', by UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Attractions at Hampi:
With its heritage monuments and temples it attracts a lot of tourists and pilgrims every year. Some of the major attractions at Hampi are:
Shri Vijayavitthala Temple:
This is an excessively beautiful temple, dedicated to Lord Vitthal (Lord Vishnu), that makes everyone speechless with its charismatic architecture. The construction of temple was started in the vicinity of King Krishna Deva Raya in 1513 AD, which continued till 1565 AD. The temple reflects the best example of Dravidian architecture style.
Stone Chariot:
Stone Chariot is located inside the Vijayavitthala temple complex. It is believed that the chariot is supposed to be carved out of a single rock. The complex carving work of the chariot is seen nowhere in the world. The chariot looks like a model of temple chariot, which is being used during a traditional procession.
Shri Virupaksha Temple:
Shri Virupaksha Temple is located in the foot hills, known as Hemakuta Hill. The temple is also called Pampapathi Temple, which is one of the most important as well as the holiest temples of the region. The origin of the temple dates back to 7th century, which houses a shrine of Lord Shiva, Lord Pampa, Bhivaneshwari Devi.
King's Balance:
King's Balance is also known as Tula Bhara or Tula Purushadana, which contains two lofty granite pillars of 15 feet each, supporting a 12 feet stone beam. It was used by the kings of Vijayanagara to weigh on certain occasions such as - Lunar or Solar eclipse.
Stepped Tank:
Stepped Tank is one of the most applauded remains, located in Durbar area. It is a small tank of around 22 sq m and 7 m deep, which is built of chlorite schist. It was used by the members of royal families.
Other Attractions: Akka Tangi Gudda, Anegondi, Badava Linga, Ugra Narsimha, Zenana enclosure, The Underground Temple, Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple, Hazari Rama Temple etc are the other attractions at Hampi as well as one of the most important part of Karnataka travel.
Monday, June 4, 2012
TRAVEL CONCIERGE SERVICE: FOR YOUR TRAVEL CONNECTIONS
Travel concierge service is a company that specializes in providing travel services that you can use for your journeys and holiday connections. This company does have professionals who are well trained to provide you with your traveling information and advice. No matter what you want for your travels, this company can offer you what in terms of hotel reservations, travel arrangements, flight bookings e.t.c. If you want go for long holidays any where in the world, travel concierge service is better placed to help you with your travel needs and demands. They are have specialist knowledge incase you want to can go on cruise around the world, a safari or you want to make online booking for flights, hotel accommodation or car hires for any vacation.
Travel concierge service operates through a network of companies that are better placed to provide you all types of travel needs.
For example, if you want to relax in the beach and go away for hot sunny holidays, this company can provide you with detailed information on your travel arrangements. However, some places might require an advanced bookings before you travel. In this case in the company can recommend and take you to tourist spots has lots of restaurants, night clubs or clubs.Travel concierge service can also assist you with details if you want to go on shopping trip in some of the major shopping centers in the world. It is important to get some traveling tips before you venture out. The first thing you need to know is to prepare the necessary documents like passport if you want to outside the country. You also need a visa to allow you enter into any foreign country. In such as a case you will be required to book and have the confirmation of your flights for your intended destination before hand.
Travel concierge service can also help you get an insurance cover for travel arrangements. With this kind of cover you won't have to worry about your safety and those of your belongings wherever you go. Just before you travel, make sure that you have taken the right medication and vaccinations where appropriate. You should also have the right currency if are traveling outside your country or ways of getting access to money while on holiday. It is also important to make sure that your luggage does not go beyond the required weight otherwise; you will be required to pay more for excess or leave some of your belongings at the airport.
Sunday, June 3, 2012
Travel companions ?your travel buddies
Single holidays are a different and unique way to travel around the world. Due to recession and tough economic climate more and more tourists are undertaking solo travel.
A couple of decades ago, most of the solo travellers used books or electronic gadgets like a iPod, laptop to be there travel companion as they found it better way to kill there time n loneliness while travelling all alone.
But now we see a change in the trend. Even though individuals have to go on a solo holidays they don't have to actually "single". You can actually have a partner on your holiday. With a travel companion you don't have to worry about all the "don'ts" of being a single traveller. You don't have to worry about going to any restaurant, museum, art gallery, historical site all alone. So you have a travel companion without defeating the whole purpose of travelling single.
You are with some one with whom you can share your travel ideas and experiences making your solo vacation all the more exciting and beautiful.
In fact the way you look at an all singles holiday would completely change if you have a travel partner who shows you around, helps you mingle with new people. You would definitely take with yourself unforgettable memories and exciting stories from your foreign destination when with your travel buddy.
Again the question arises how does one find a travel companion and even if a solo traveller finds a partner would he or she be the ideal person to holiday with? Hmmm
Well there are plenty of websites on the internet that help you choose a travel buddy just as per your needs. So whether you travelling for business or pleasure these websites give you ample of choice if you are on a look out for a holiday partner.
But all the joy and excitement of the solo holiday is taken away when you consider the cost involved in your travel. You might have to pay in doubles even when your holidaying all alone .Often you end up paying hefty single supplements.
A single supplement surcharge for most rooms or cruises is about 40% of your total cost of holidaying and it's mostly not possible to argue your way out of it.
You are stuck in a situation where you don't want to cancel your solo vacation and neither you able to find some one who could share your room or cabin. In ‘No Singles supplement holidays' the travel agencies aids the solo traveller by pairing them with other singles on holiday in to double occupancy program. Most travel companies catering to your need to find a travel partner ask you to submit a personal profile and also list the destinations you would like to visit. Gradually you start getting potentional matches as per your choose you can contact them or hold a meeting with them.
Friday, June 1, 2012
Travel Tips
Everyone knows that travel is really cost sometimes a huge amount of dollar. This undeniable fact can be a barrier why people sometimes get rid of travel even they are in their vacation time or holidays. Some say, it is for the budget sake, avoid expenses, in the other side its true. Financial problem is really a headache nowadays. But wait; there are people in this planet that they really love travel or some because it is really important to them. I made this travel tip for everyone because I know everyone loves travel, If you are a traveler or not, I hope this tip is really a help.
This tip is from my experience and shared from the fellow traveler about travel in cheapest way.
First key to budget travel is to plan ahead. Organized the places and activities you want to experience.
Planning and spending travel dollar wisely is a priority for most families.
Don’t forget to check the availability of budget, spending the budget wise make the travel more enjoyable. If not, you surely stranded.Be simple and avoid extra things that not so important. Even if your travel budget is so tight, it doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy the travel.
Be aware that small things can be add up with a huge amount. Hotel extras, restaurant, car rentals, gas, ticket for special attractions, drinks add-on makes your budget goes crazy.
Make sure that you always focus of the things you want to enjoy your travel. Things to learn, peoples to meet, views to see, adventure to experience is the basic thing in travel that is very important to make your travel become a real travel.
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