Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Safety Tips For Travellers
The one thing that many backpackers or travelers-on-a-budget in Thailand don't know about is that Thailand is actually a remarkably safe place to travel. Granted, if you 'tempt fate' with your gear or get casual about leaving stuff lying around, then you may end up attracting your fair share of nefarious types before you know it.
So, in order that you keep safe and keep secure, here's a few little things you can do. After all, having a bad experience can easily put a downer on your holiday, so it's best to avoid those experiences at all costs.
The first thing you should do, apart from the common sense of 'looking after your gear and valuables' as you would on a normal overseas trip, is wear a hidden passport money case or travel pouch. Now, you may feel that you don't need one of these. But they do come in handy to keep your passport, credit cards and valuables together and safe.
Next on the list is having a good bag or backpack lock. You can purchase great combination locks that will lock or fasten your backpack to a fixed object if time ever calls for that. Sometimes just zipping up your bag is enough -- you really don't need to be ultra-paranoid about safety in Thailand, but it's good to be secure all the same.
And lastly, make sure you know who you're traveling with. Sure, most of the time it's going to be your travel mates, friends or backpackers from back home. But just keep your wits about you when traveling to unfamiliar areas or locations, or particularly 'touristy' areas. Knowing how to 'read' body language will do you well too.
Well, that's it in a nutshell. Like I say, you can relax and enjoy your Thailand adventure without having to worry about safety because it's really not an issue in Thailand. Just focus on the good things and enjoy your trip!
So, in order that you keep safe and keep secure, here's a few little things you can do. After all, having a bad experience can easily put a downer on your holiday, so it's best to avoid those experiences at all costs.
The first thing you should do, apart from the common sense of 'looking after your gear and valuables' as you would on a normal overseas trip, is wear a hidden passport money case or travel pouch. Now, you may feel that you don't need one of these. But they do come in handy to keep your passport, credit cards and valuables together and safe.
Next on the list is having a good bag or backpack lock. You can purchase great combination locks that will lock or fasten your backpack to a fixed object if time ever calls for that. Sometimes just zipping up your bag is enough -- you really don't need to be ultra-paranoid about safety in Thailand, but it's good to be secure all the same.
And lastly, make sure you know who you're traveling with. Sure, most of the time it's going to be your travel mates, friends or backpackers from back home. But just keep your wits about you when traveling to unfamiliar areas or locations, or particularly 'touristy' areas. Knowing how to 'read' body language will do you well too.
Well, that's it in a nutshell. Like I say, you can relax and enjoy your Thailand adventure without having to worry about safety because it's really not an issue in Thailand. Just focus on the good things and enjoy your trip!
Monday, September 28, 2009
The Sunshine State.
No matter what time of the year it is, Florida has an ample number of reasons for spending your vacation here. Popularly known as the "Sunshine state" it offers a diverse variety of culture and varied places to visit. With so much to offer Florida is definitely one of the best holidaying destination preferred by tourists around the world. Right from the beautiful beaches of Miami to extravagant theme parks Florida is a treat for both you and your kids also.
Below are some of the reasons to pack your bags and fly to Florida:
Beaches, Beaches and Beaches.....
With a long coastline along the Atlantic and also Gulf of Mexico, Florida has myriad beaches all around the state. One can relax in these white sand beaches and watch the amazing sunset along the long horizon. And to make it even better one can rent a beach house and enjoy the cool breeze all day long with total privacy and excellent infrastructure.
The undersea kingdom..
Situated in Tampa this aquarium is the world's finest and the best. Sprawling over an area of about 200,000 square feet and consisting over 20,000 species of aquatic plants and animals, this aquarium is a treat for kids and also animal lovers.
St Augustine- Lover's paradise...
Being the oldest city in US this place is known for its unique heritage and culture which is derived from European architecture. Its romantic flavor makes it a lover's paradise making it the only city in US with such a charm.
Exotic wildlife sanctuaries and National parks:
Considered as one of the most endangered species in the world the Florida panther is seen is some parts of south Florida. Apart from this Florida has numerous national parks all over the state.
Above are some of the reasons why one should really consider visiting Florida. Apart from all this some other popular destinations are Disney World, Florida Keys and many many more.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Family vacations.
A family vacation is a great investment because you may need a couch or new carpet but the furniture or the carpet will wear out; but the memories made on a family vacation will last a life time and only grow better with age.
Now where you take your pre-teens may depend on what you want to do or what they like to do.
In my opinion, here are a few of the top 10 family vacations.
Hawaii, go here for your family vacation to enjoy beautiful white sand beaches, towering waterfalls, whales, dolphins, volcanoes and more activities than I could possibly mention.
Washington DC, this family vacation would be educational as your kids would see so much history their head would spin. But if you get your kids involved in researching the different
Museums and historical sights, let them choose which ones they want to visit, you will be surprised how excited they will get about what they are going to see.
Costa Rica, this is one of my favorite family vacation destinations for those that like adventure and nature. Costa Rican's are so friendly and proud, they want share their beautiful country with you.
While drifting down a river you will see trees full of howling monkeys, toucans and other colorful birds, crocodiles and lizard like creatures that seem to walk on water. On this family vacations you can
Visit frog farms at night and zip through the tree tops during the day or simply relax at the beach.
Gulf Shores Alabama State Park, if you want to stay in the US , this is a wonderful family vacation. It has gorgeous beaches, fishing, skiing, nature hikes, golf and swimming, just to name a few of the things to do.
Colorado Springs area, also a great family vacation spot in the US . Here you can white water raft, horseback ride, go to a cowboy dinner, pan for gold, rock climb; and the list goes on.
Disney, this is a given. But don't forget about Disney in California . It is smaller, but there are so many other things to do in the area that it is a fantastic trip for a family vacation.
Cruises, kids love cruises because they have special activities on board for the different age groups and they make friends and before the cruise is over they will want to have sleep-overs.
Dude Ranches, Texas , Colorado , Wyoming are a few states that have Dude Ranches. These are about the closest thing in the US to an 'all-inclusive' family vacation. Here you can go on trail rides, tube float down a river, watch and sometime participate in a good old fashion rodeo. And most all meals and activities are included in the price. Activities that are included vary.
Riviera Maya, Mexico, this area has some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico and amazing all-inclusive resorts. Choose the right resort and your kids will never lack for something to do. They can go snorkeling, build sand castles, sail on a sunfish, slide on huge water park slides and all of this is included in the price along with all meals and drinks.
Smuggler's Notch, VT, Located in beautiful mountains, while on this family vacation your family can spend time together mountain biking, fishing, swimming, canoeing, skateboarding, painting, making jewelry, playing golf or just being quiet and enjoying the scenery around you.
I would always check into purchasing a good travel insurance for your family travel because you never know when you will need it. I always tell my clients 'travel insurance is one of those expenses that if you purchase it and don't need it, then you feel it was a waste of money; but if you don't purchase it and loose all of your money or need the medical part of the insurance while on your trip, then you wish you had purchased the travel insurance'. So it is worth investigating.
Now where you take your pre-teens may depend on what you want to do or what they like to do.
In my opinion, here are a few of the top 10 family vacations.
Hawaii, go here for your family vacation to enjoy beautiful white sand beaches, towering waterfalls, whales, dolphins, volcanoes and more activities than I could possibly mention.
Washington DC, this family vacation would be educational as your kids would see so much history their head would spin. But if you get your kids involved in researching the different
Museums and historical sights, let them choose which ones they want to visit, you will be surprised how excited they will get about what they are going to see.
Costa Rica, this is one of my favorite family vacation destinations for those that like adventure and nature. Costa Rican's are so friendly and proud, they want share their beautiful country with you.
While drifting down a river you will see trees full of howling monkeys, toucans and other colorful birds, crocodiles and lizard like creatures that seem to walk on water. On this family vacations you can
Visit frog farms at night and zip through the tree tops during the day or simply relax at the beach.
Gulf Shores Alabama State Park, if you want to stay in the US , this is a wonderful family vacation. It has gorgeous beaches, fishing, skiing, nature hikes, golf and swimming, just to name a few of the things to do.
Colorado Springs area, also a great family vacation spot in the US . Here you can white water raft, horseback ride, go to a cowboy dinner, pan for gold, rock climb; and the list goes on.
Disney, this is a given. But don't forget about Disney in California . It is smaller, but there are so many other things to do in the area that it is a fantastic trip for a family vacation.
Cruises, kids love cruises because they have special activities on board for the different age groups and they make friends and before the cruise is over they will want to have sleep-overs.
Dude Ranches, Texas , Colorado , Wyoming are a few states that have Dude Ranches. These are about the closest thing in the US to an 'all-inclusive' family vacation. Here you can go on trail rides, tube float down a river, watch and sometime participate in a good old fashion rodeo. And most all meals and activities are included in the price. Activities that are included vary.
Riviera Maya, Mexico, this area has some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico and amazing all-inclusive resorts. Choose the right resort and your kids will never lack for something to do. They can go snorkeling, build sand castles, sail on a sunfish, slide on huge water park slides and all of this is included in the price along with all meals and drinks.
Smuggler's Notch, VT, Located in beautiful mountains, while on this family vacation your family can spend time together mountain biking, fishing, swimming, canoeing, skateboarding, painting, making jewelry, playing golf or just being quiet and enjoying the scenery around you.
I would always check into purchasing a good travel insurance for your family travel because you never know when you will need it. I always tell my clients 'travel insurance is one of those expenses that if you purchase it and don't need it, then you feel it was a waste of money; but if you don't purchase it and loose all of your money or need the medical part of the insurance while on your trip, then you wish you had purchased the travel insurance'. So it is worth investigating.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
10 vacation spots and cheap airfare.
If you're going to take a vacation, you might as well go to the top 10 vacation spots and get your money's worth. As your travel guide, let me take you through some of the most enchanting and exotic places in the world.
By the time you're done reading this article, you're going to want to book the next ticket to your dream destination.
So without further ado, I present to you my top 10 vacation spots in the world.
1) Venice
Venice is known for its canals and gondolas. While big-time developers all over the world are copying its architectural design, there's nothing quite like the original. And with most of the original buildings still intact, it's not difficult to imagine yourself transported back to the 19th century.
Art and culture make Venice their home. So if you want to satisfy your longing for beauty and grandeur, Venice is your place.
2) Tokyo
Second on the top 10 vacation spots in the world list is Tokyo. In the capital of Japan, you'll discover a perfect fusion of modern and traditional cultures. 21st century infrastructures stand side by side with hundred-year old shrines and temples.
3) Las Vegas
What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. It is the city of sin after all. If money is no object, then nothing should stop you from literally spending the night (or nights) away in some of the city's most illustrious casinos. It's living life on the fast lane.
4) The Bahamas
The Bahamas consists of multiple islands. From the barrier reef rich Andros to paradise island Nassau, you can take your pick of any underwater adventure you like.
Although famous for its beaches, the Bahamas Islands also have a wide array of land activities. Mother Nature will spoil you with bird watching and nature hiking. If you want more time for relaxation, the people will spoil you with their addicting spa treatments.
5) Andalucia
Andalucia houses three major World Heritage monuments: the Alhambra in Granada, the Great Mosque of Cordoba and the Giralda in Sevilla.
If you're into sightseeing, you wouldn't want to miss these three! However, Andalucia also offers a variety of sports activities depending on the season. Some of them include skiing, horse riding, golf, hiking, paddel and lots more. If you want to try hunting and shooting, you'll be glad to know that Spain's autonomous community has one of the best games around.
6) India
No Top 10 Vacation Spots list is complete without India. This beautiful country is one of the world's most prominent centers of spirituality. No matter what religion you belong to, you're sure to find peace here.
Just standing in front of the Taj Mahal, for example, will take your breath away and make you feel grateful for being alive. The diverse cuisine is also one reason that makes India such a great vacation spot.
7) Africa
Animals in their natural habitat are vastly different from the animals you see in zoos. If you want to go all out for your vacation, why not go on an African Safari? That experience will definitely prove to be a most memorable one.
8) Madrid
Madrid is known as the capital of bullfighting. If that's not enough to lure you to Spain, then maybe the thought of finding treasure in one of the world's largest flea markets will.
Madrid is known for its local markets where you'll find everything from antiques to paintings.
9) Rome
Rome is a huge museum in itself. Architecture by Leonardo da Vinci, Michaelangelo and Bernini abound.
This is one place where you cannot possibly run out of culture to soak up. Rome is also home to the last few surviving architecture from the ancient world. Make sure to visit the Pantheon and the Colosseum.
10) Greece
Greece has certainly become one of the premier travel destinations in the world. This is where you can put your lessons in Greek mythology to good use. Explore the temples and sites where ancient Greeks used to worship their gods.
However, if you want to relax and stay out of adventure, you'll definitely be well taken cared of as well. These are my top 10 vacation spots. Find out which best suits your plans and don't forget to bring back a souvenir!
Nothing can make any vacation more pleasurable than getting very cheap airfare and securing the lowest airfare available. Discover 10 closely-guarded secrets to save a truckload of money on traveling at http://www.squidoo.com/verycheapairfare.
By the time you're done reading this article, you're going to want to book the next ticket to your dream destination.
So without further ado, I present to you my top 10 vacation spots in the world.
1) Venice
Venice is known for its canals and gondolas. While big-time developers all over the world are copying its architectural design, there's nothing quite like the original. And with most of the original buildings still intact, it's not difficult to imagine yourself transported back to the 19th century.
Art and culture make Venice their home. So if you want to satisfy your longing for beauty and grandeur, Venice is your place.
2) Tokyo
Second on the top 10 vacation spots in the world list is Tokyo. In the capital of Japan, you'll discover a perfect fusion of modern and traditional cultures. 21st century infrastructures stand side by side with hundred-year old shrines and temples.
3) Las Vegas
What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. It is the city of sin after all. If money is no object, then nothing should stop you from literally spending the night (or nights) away in some of the city's most illustrious casinos. It's living life on the fast lane.
4) The Bahamas
The Bahamas consists of multiple islands. From the barrier reef rich Andros to paradise island Nassau, you can take your pick of any underwater adventure you like.
Although famous for its beaches, the Bahamas Islands also have a wide array of land activities. Mother Nature will spoil you with bird watching and nature hiking. If you want more time for relaxation, the people will spoil you with their addicting spa treatments.
5) Andalucia
Andalucia houses three major World Heritage monuments: the Alhambra in Granada, the Great Mosque of Cordoba and the Giralda in Sevilla.
If you're into sightseeing, you wouldn't want to miss these three! However, Andalucia also offers a variety of sports activities depending on the season. Some of them include skiing, horse riding, golf, hiking, paddel and lots more. If you want to try hunting and shooting, you'll be glad to know that Spain's autonomous community has one of the best games around.
6) India
No Top 10 Vacation Spots list is complete without India. This beautiful country is one of the world's most prominent centers of spirituality. No matter what religion you belong to, you're sure to find peace here.
Just standing in front of the Taj Mahal, for example, will take your breath away and make you feel grateful for being alive. The diverse cuisine is also one reason that makes India such a great vacation spot.
7) Africa
Animals in their natural habitat are vastly different from the animals you see in zoos. If you want to go all out for your vacation, why not go on an African Safari? That experience will definitely prove to be a most memorable one.
8) Madrid
Madrid is known as the capital of bullfighting. If that's not enough to lure you to Spain, then maybe the thought of finding treasure in one of the world's largest flea markets will.
Madrid is known for its local markets where you'll find everything from antiques to paintings.
9) Rome
Rome is a huge museum in itself. Architecture by Leonardo da Vinci, Michaelangelo and Bernini abound.
This is one place where you cannot possibly run out of culture to soak up. Rome is also home to the last few surviving architecture from the ancient world. Make sure to visit the Pantheon and the Colosseum.
10) Greece
Greece has certainly become one of the premier travel destinations in the world. This is where you can put your lessons in Greek mythology to good use. Explore the temples and sites where ancient Greeks used to worship their gods.
However, if you want to relax and stay out of adventure, you'll definitely be well taken cared of as well. These are my top 10 vacation spots. Find out which best suits your plans and don't forget to bring back a souvenir!
Nothing can make any vacation more pleasurable than getting very cheap airfare and securing the lowest airfare available. Discover 10 closely-guarded secrets to save a truckload of money on traveling at http://www.squidoo.com/verycheapairfare.
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