Friday, September 28, 2007

Heaven is a Place in Mexico

by Megan Foster
I didn't think it would be that easy. It was a silly idea between my best friend and me, that mushroomed into something else. Let's take a trip. Get lost in Mexico. And we giggled like school girls as we planned on sunning ourselves on pristine beaches, sipping on pina coladas, and the occasional (not!) Bloody Mary.

Then miraculously, both our schedules at work cleared up. We had three days free to make our impromptu vacation a reality! You wouldn't believe the excitement that spilled over from us as we set out to prepare for our trip. Since we have been hearing nothing but good things about Baja California, we decided to spend our unexpected vacation at Rosarito in Baja California, Mexico.

So we took Diane's trusty Beetle, loaded it up with our stuff and took the hour-long drive to paradise. Needless to say, we were as excited as two college students out on summer vacation.

As soon as we got to Rosarito, we immediately looked around for a hotel to stay in. We drove around town for a while, then found it. It looked like a beacon in the desert. It was a couple of yards from the beach and it was bustling with life. Diane and I turned to each other and smiled. This was it - The Festival Plaza Hotel. This was the perfect place to rest after our adventures on the beach. We immediately got ourselves a room at the hotel. Fortunately, it was the off-season, so we didn't have a difficult time getting rooms. We were happy we chose this particular hotel. From the outside, we could see that it was located near commercial establishments. The bars and restaurants situated near the hotel were familiar from all the stories we've been hearing from co-workers and other friends. We made a mental note to try authentic Mexican tacos over at Rock and Roll Taco, which looked to be a fun place to hang out in. We could actually hear lively Mexican music blaring from the restaurant as we passed by with the Beetle's windows rolled down.

The ocean smell was invigorating. We couldn't wait to take a dip in the pristine waters. From our room balcony (room with an ocean view, natch), we could see the glittering seas and immaculate beaches. We immediately donned our bikinis and trooped to the beach.

The beach was a wonder. There were few people dotting the shores that fine Friday morning. We spread out our towels, slathered on some sunscreen and proceeded to bask in the perfect Mexican sun.

After about half an hour of tanning, Diane and I decided we needed a drink. So we walked to the nearest bar and ordered drinks, as we looked out on the vast seas. A little Mexican boy approached us and showed us a crude sign written on a piece of cardboard: Surfing Lessons, ask for Luisito. Diane looked at me with a twinkle in her eye, and told the boy in her faltering Spanish where to find Luisito. The boy eagerly nodded his head and ran to a small shack a few feet from the bar. He ran inside and a few seconds later, a man emerged from the shack. Thankfully, he was fluent in English. Diane arranged for us to have surfing lessons, and we jumped right into it immediately.

If there was one word that would describe those lessons, it would have to be: exhausting. I wiped out more times than I could recall, and paddling in the open seas on my surf board was extremely tiring for my arms. But I had the greatest time ever. The waves were just right. The weather was fine, and the company was perfect, since we took lessons with a group, and got introduced to a few locals and other vacationers.

After that, our surfing "class" met up to party the night away. We went from one bar to another and tried out the amazing Mexican cuisine. Needless to say, the calories we burned while learning to surf were replenished with our food and alcohol binges every night.

It was the most fun Diane and I have had in a long time. By the time we were heading back to California, we were sorry our vacation at Rosarito was going to end. But we were happy. We were glad we made this impulsive vacation happen, because those are three days in heaven worth experiencing over and over again.
Link

Packing Light for Your Camping Trip

by Greg Hansward
An outdoor vacation of camping in the great outdoors is sure to be a nice reprieve from the hustle and bustle of city life. While many campsites don't require hiking much further than your automobile, they don't provide you with seclusion and adventure of hiking to more remote campsites. The downside of hiking to remote camping locations is that you have to carry your belongings and camping gear on your back. Here are some tips to downsizing your load but still ensuring you have the essentials.

First off, do some research and see if your campsite will have running water and showers. The more remote ones rarely do. Even if there is water it may not be suitable for drinking and cleaning cuts and scrapes. If needed, bring enough bottled water for your hike or consider purification tablets.

Check the climate and weather report before you leave and pack accordingly. Even if the weather report doesn't forecast it, be prepared for rain with at least a light poncho or rain resistant jacket.

Bring an appropriate sleeping bag for the climate and conditions of your camping location. If it's a warm weather destination then a lightweight sleeping bag can be cheap and easy to find. If you'll be camping in a cold climate then it's wise to invest in a lightweight yet well insulated and water resistant sleeping bag.

A lightweight tent made of durable material is essential for camping. While it's nice to have a huge tent it's not necessary and less is more. In remote campsites you can change your clothes and keep your belongings outside your tent. You may also consider purchasing a tent that is self-assembly and requires very little time and effort to set up and take down.

A well-stocked first aid kit is also a must for camping. Make sure you have various sized bandages and disinfecting spray or ointment. Also carry some antihistamines and pain relieving medication. Have some small scissors or a Swiss Army knife and some tweezers which come in handy when dressing wounds and doing a multitude of tasks.

Your fully loaded backpack will weigh no less that 20 pounds and should weigh no more than 40 pounds. That may not seem like a lot but if you have hours of trekking to do then it's sure to feel like twice after an hour or two.

Taking a camping holiday in more remote areas can be the adventure and seclusion you're looking for but it will require hiking with your equipment. Pack wisely and only bring the essentials.
Link

Don't Forget These Camping Essentials

by Eric Slarkowski
A camping holiday can be fun for the entire family. They provide an opportunity to commune with nature and have quality bonding time with the family. Planning and preparation is key to ensuring you have what you need for your outdoor vacation. Bringing too little with you may leave you with not enough of the camping essentials while bringing too much may make it impossible to carry everything on your back.

If you'll need your own shelter then choose a tent that is an adequate size and is easy to assemble. Look for a sturdy tent made of waterproof material. The more elaborate, the more assembly time and effort is usually required. Consider purchasing a self-assembling tent that has a collapsible frame all in one unit. It will save time putting up and taking down.

"Roughing it" doesn't mean you have to sleep on the bare ground. Purchase an inflatable mattress and a comfortable sleeping bag. If you're hiking with your gear then buy a lightweight yet well insulated sleeping bag and a sleeping mat to sleep on. If you'll be sleeping in cold weather then spend the money to get a well insulated sleeping bag; it will be well worth the investment.

Camping doesn't mean you also have to eat cold, pre-packaged food. Bring a cooking stove and some basic cooking utensils. Bring just enough to get by especially if you'll be hiking with your gear.

Make sure you take a first aid kit that contains the necessities. You'll need various sized bandages and antibacterial cream or spray. Ibuprofen is a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory so it's a beneficial to stock your kit with a bottle. Also bring some anti-histamine; not only is it good for treating allergies but also as an itch reliever.

Insect repellent is important as well as sun block. Bring some basic tools such as scissors and a Swiss Amy knife. Bring a flashlight which comes in handy for walks at night and when looking for something in your tent. Cleansing towelettes are useful for cleaning soiled hands and small scrapes.

Most campsites have a water supply but if you prefer purified water then you'll need to bring in your own. Bottled water also comes in handy for cleaning first aid cuts and scrapes.

Don't over pack especially if you'll be hiking with your camping gear. Give yourself plenty of time to pack and plan and bring only the essentials.
Link

Bring a Stove on Your Next Camping Trip

by Clinton Maxwell
Traveling to the great outdoors and communing with nature is a enjoyable way to get out of the city and breathe in the fresh air. While you want a taste of living in nature, a camping trip doesn't have to mean eating cold food and freezing at night.

Some campsites don't allow fires so contact the facility ahead of time or check out their website for information. In any case, cooking stoves and heaters designed for the outdoors provide a way of making your camping experience more enjoyable and comfortable.

Camping stoves come in a variety of sizes and features. Choose one that best suits your needs. If you'll be hiking with your equipment then select one that is lightweight and small; there are ones especially made for backpacking

If you're planning on driving to your campsite and have a large family then consider a stove with multiple burners. They allow you to cook bigger and multiple dishes. There are even stoves that have a grill for making eggs and pancakes.

Special cookware for camping is made so you can make more than one dish at a time. They're stackable so you can cook multiple dishes by using the heat from the bottom pot to heat the top one. You can prepare food more quickly and conserve your fuel. Remember to use the smallest pot or pan possible and as little water for boiling food; it will conserve your fuel.

Camping stoves take various kinds of fuels and it usually depends on the manufacturer. Propane, butane or white gas (commonly referred to as "Coleman" fuel) is commonly used and preferable. Kerosene and unleaded gas is still used but is not preferred since it emits an unpleasant odor and are not as safe. Coleman fuel should be your first choice since it is the safest and burns clean without odor or charring. Propane is pricey and doesn't burn as hot but it is the cleanest burning fuel.

Fuel canisters come in various sizes and choosing the right size for your needs depends on how much cooking you'll be doing and for how long you'll be camping. If you're hiking with your equipment then stick to a small canister and cook sparingly.

Some campsites provide cooking facilities but it will be more convenient and less burdensome to bring your own cooking source. Planning ahead and bringing a cooking stove will ensure an enjoyable camping trip.
Link

A Dating with Unlimited Temptation of Rajasthan Tourism

by Michael Braganza
Rajasthan is the one of the most colorful region of India depicting unlimited temptation in every walk of life. The land of Rajputs, Rajasthan is dotted with fantastic forts, elegant palaces, lovely lakes, mind-blowing waves of sand dunes, and amazingly beautiful wildlife sanctuaries and national parks which make Rajasthan one of the most popular tourist destinations of India. These attractions play a vital role in the boom of Rajasthan Tourism. Tourists from all around the world come to travel in Rajasthan, India.

Rajasthan is a he largest state of India bordered by Pakistan to the west. It is popularly described as the "Land of Kings or Rajputs". Because they were Rajputs who ruled Rajasthan for over a thousands year. Rajputs of Rajasthan are known for their bravery and honor. The people of Rajasthan are friendly and cordial. The vibrant land of Rajasthan is also known for its culture, tradition, history, religion, music, dance, arts, crafts, and off course monumental heritage. Besides these flora and fauna of Rajasthan are also worth watching. In fact, Rajasthan has enough regions for boom in Rajasthan Tourism and plays a major role in the boom of tourism in India. Tourism and Rajasthan go side by side. Tourism is inseparable part of Rajasthan, India.

Rajasthan is a place where everyone got fascinated with its amazing attractions. It is a place where leftovers of a glorious past have been attentively preserved to grab the attention of tourists. Rajasthan Tourism offers memories which are beyond price, a bouquet of mementos and an address book full of friends. It offers a range of tourism experiences. It experiences you with the fascination of forts & palaces, sand dunes, colorful tribal life, desert safari, camel safari, flora and fauna, fairs & festivals etc.

On your tours to Rajasthan, you will observe that the vibrant and colorful land of Rajasthan enjoys multi-dimensional tourism options. Some hot tourist spots in Rajasthan which you should not forget to visit on your Rajasthan Tours are Jaipur - the pink city of India & the capital city of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer - the golden city of India, Jodhpur - the Blue City of India, Pushkar - the most sacred city of Rajasthan, Ajmer - a holy city of Rajasthan, Bikaner - the Camel Country, Mount Abu - the only hill stations of Rajasthan, Ranthambhore National Park, Sariska National Park, Udaipur - the Romantic City, etc. Some major forts and palaces of Rajasthan are City Palace Complex of Jaipur & Udaipur, mammoth Mehrangarh Fort of Jodhpur, Kumbhalgarh Fort, Lake Palace of Udaipur, and Golden Fort of Jaisalmer.

To travel in these destinations you will observe yourself that how Rajasthan Tourism is Rich. Tours to Rajasthan assures you for a royal experience. Come to India and embark on Rajasthan Tours and feel the royal experience of Rajasthan yourself. Rajasthan Tourism also provides a brilliant opportunity for shopping activities in the cities of Rajasthan, India. So, if you are ready to join a dating with unlimited temptation of Rajasthan Tourism, choose any Rajasthan Tours Packages and head to Rajasthan, India.

Rajasthan is the one of the most colorful region of India depicting unlimited temptation in every walk of life. The land of Rajputs, Rajasthan is dotted with fantastic forts, elegant palaces, lovely lakes, mind-blowing waves of sand dunes, and amazingly beautiful wildlife sanctuaries and national parks which make Rajasthan one of the most popular tourist destinations of India. These attractions play a vital role in the boom of Rajasthan Tourism. Tourists from all around the world come to travel in Rajasthan, India.

Rajasthan is a he largest state of India bordered by Pakistan to the west. It is popularly described as the "Land of Kings or Rajputs". Because they were Rajputs who ruled Rajasthan for over a thousands year. Rajputs of Rajasthan are known for their bravery and honor. The people of Rajasthan are friendly and cordial. The vibrant land of Rajasthan is also known for its culture, tradition, history, religion, music, dance, arts, crafts, and off course monumental heritage. Besides these flora and fauna of Rajasthan are also worth watching. In fact, Rajasthan has enough regions for boom in Rajasthan Tourism and plays a major role in the boom of tourism in India. Tourism and Rajasthan go side by side. Tourism is inseparable part of Rajasthan, India.

Rajasthan is a place where everyone got fascinated with its amazing attractions. It is a place where leftovers of a glorious past have been attentively preserved to grab the attention of tourists. Rajasthan Tourism offers memories which are beyond price, a bouquet of mementos and an address book full of friends. It offers a range of tourism experiences. It experiences you with the fascination of forts & palaces, sand dunes, colorful tribal life, desert safari, camel safari, flora and fauna, fairs & festivals etc.

On your tours to Rajasthan, you will observe that the vibrant and colorful land of Rajasthan enjoys multi-dimensional tourism options. Some hot tourist spots in Rajasthan which you should not forget to visit on your Rajasthan Tours are Jaipur - the pink city of India & the capital city of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer - the golden city of India, Jodhpur - the Blue City of India, Pushkar - the most sacred city of Rajasthan, Ajmer - a holy city of Rajasthan, Bikaner - the Camel Country, Mount Abu - the only hill stations of Rajasthan, Ranthambhore National Park, Sariska National Park, Udaipur - the Romantic City, etc. Some major forts and palaces of Rajasthan are City Palace Complex of Jaipur & Udaipur, mammoth Mehrangarh Fort of Jodhpur, Kumbhalgarh Fort, Lake Palace of Udaipur, and Golden Fort of Jaisalmer.

To travel in these destinations you will observe yourself that how Rajasthan Tourism is Rich. Tours to Rajasthan assures you for a royal experience. Come to India and embark on Rajasthan Tours and feel the royal experience of Rajasthan yourself. Rajasthan Tourism also provides a brilliant opportunity for shopping activities in the cities of Rajasthan, India. So, if you are ready to join a dating with unlimited temptation of Rajasthan Tourism, choose any Rajasthan Tours Packages and head to Rajasthan, India
Link

Camping Clothes - Packing for your Outdoor Vacation

by Ken Morris
Taking a holiday in the great outdoors is a wonderful reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city. You're able to breathe the fresh air and bond with nature. Preparation is key to enjoying your camping experience since there will usually be no opportunity to buy necessities at your campsite. Packing the right clothing for your trip is essential to enjoying to vacation.

Before setting off on your trip, check the climate of your camping area. Even if it's only a few hours away, a higher elevation can have severely colder weather. Also check the weather report and plan accordingly. Plan for rain even if the weather report doesn't predict it; better safe than sorry.

If you're expecting warm weather then choose clothing that is lightweight and allows your skin to breathe and sweat to evaporate. You should only wear shorts where there is no tall vegetation since you may come into contact with poisonous plants, insects and brush that can cause scratches and cuts.

Packing for cold weather camping is more time consuming but taking the right clothes is more important. Choose clothing that is both thick and breathable. You want to make sure that sweat is absorbed into the fabric and can evaporate. Wool is itchy and cotton doesn't supply enough warmth so look for blends. Many sporting good stores sell clothing that is especially made for cold weather camping.

For extremely cold weather camping, consider bringing thermal underwear; it will make you more comfortable, especially at night. Also make sure that you have a jacket that is rain resistant as well as insulated. It should also be lightweight and allow you to move freely so you're not unduly burdened when trekking and preparing your campsite. There are many modern fabrics that offer a combination of being lightweight, warm, breathable and comfortable such as Primaloft and Thinsulate. They are available at sporting good stores and cost more than ordinary jackets but they'll be worth the extra money.

Regardless of the temperature, choose durable clothing so that it stands up to grazes with the terrain and protects you from scrapes and cuts. Dress in layers so you can easily adjust to climate changes. Stick to lightweight clothing so you're not weighed down; remember that clothing that you're not wearing will need to be carried. This is especially important when you'll be hiking to your campsite.

Preparation is important when you camp and bringing the right clothes can be just as important as bringing the right camping equipment. Protect yourself from the elements and you'll have an enjoyable outdoor vacation.
Link

Argentina: Wine-Tasting Adventures

by Alex J Smith
Argentina is a country of staggering diversity in climates and landscapes. It is also a country that has become a major producer of fine wines. Mendoza, the capital of its wine-growing region at the foot of the Andes, is a beautiful city of large plazas and broad streets made green and shady by trees along the wide sidewalks. There's skiing to be done, or hiking and horseback riding. The main reason to be in Mendoza in spring is the annual wine harvest festival, the Vendimia, for wine tastings and other things.

Apart from the wine, another big reason for visiting Argentina is the charm of its capital, Buenos Aires, one of the most fascinating capitals in South America. Soak up its unique atmosphere as you go around, and slowly understand why it was once said that Argentina is the most American of all European countries.

Argentina straddles the Tropic of Cancer and the most southerly tip of all the Earth's landmasses. You have a choice where to go: from the hot and humid jungles of Argentina's Amazon in the northeast, to the arid highland steppes of the northwest, down through the windswept stretches of the starkly beautiful Patagonia plains, and stop short at the Tierra del Fuego, Argentina's archipelago at the end of the world.

Nature and Wildlife

Many think of Argentina as one big cattle ranch. In its midriff, with the flat pampas and millions of cattle, you would surely think so. But Argentina is much more. Outside the capital the attractions are, naturally, wildlife and adventure in the outback. If you could hop on a plane, it is possible to watch howler monkeys and colorful toucans carousing in their jungle habitat in the morning, and observe penguins sliding off rocks into the freezing South Atlantic in the afternoon.

The avid birder will go wild over hundreds of bird species, including the majestic condor and three species of flamingo. The extensive forests and mountainsides are home to pumas, armadillos, llamas, several foxes, and tapirs. There are lush tea plantations and parched, blinding-white salt flats; there are thick palm groves and monstrous, blinding-white icebergs. And then, there is the Iguazu, the world's mightiest waterfalls.

What Else to Do

If you can spend only a week in summer, the Lake District is fine for walking or fishing in mountain lakes, and exploring the area around El Boson. You can go far south to El Calafate to see glaciers, fly to Ushuaia in the Tierra del Fuego, where you can squeeze in a boat trip along the Beagle Channel.

A week in winter is perfect for skiing at superb Las Leñas. A sidetrip to Mendoza for wine-tasting at a vineyard or two should be invigorating. Cross-country skiing is also superb is Ushuaia.

Three days at the Iguazu Falls also allow you a good view of the national park and a visit to ruined missions. Put some contrast by combining it with a day in Buenos Aires and two days among the cattle in the Pampas, to get a feel for the gaucho culture and life on the land -- the essence of Argentina.

When to Go

Argentina is in the southern hemisphere. Summer is from early December to March, autumn from March to May, winter from June to late August, and spring from early September to November. The country is so vast and so varied that there is always a good place to visit whatever the time of year.

The northeast areas around Iguazu Falls are good to visit anytime, although in summer it can be very hot. Winter is a good time to visit the northwest and its altiplanos, and many high altitude places remain warm and sunny. The wine-producing region of Mendoza can be enjoyed any time of the year, but trekking west of the city is best between December and March.

Planning Your Trip

Argentina is vast, 2.8 million square kilometers of immense diversity. Unless you spend a month, you may appreciate the country better by exploring one area in depth. International flights to Buenos Aires are plentiful and you should have no problem getting in or out. Within the country, domestic flights allow you to reach most destinations from the capital within a couple of hours, but if you go overland, the overnight buses crisscrossing the country are comfortable.
Link

How to Get Cheap Flights to Las Vegas

by Catherine Amobi
Every vacation begins with a frantic search for cheap or discounted flights. Of course you don't want to pay full price for a ticket, who does? So how can you get cheap flights to Las Vegas? There are several things you can do.

Finding cheap flights is a great way to save some money when planning your vacation. If you can save some money here then you will have more money to play with. Smart thinking! So how can you get cheap flights to Las Vegas? There are several things you can do.

First of all, and this might already be general knowledge, avoid weekend travel and plan to arrive in Las Vegas sometime during the week. Why? Every Jim, John and Harry wants to get away for the weekend on Friday or Saturday. The airlines don't need to make any accommodations to fill up the planes and can afford to disregard passengers looking for a discount. On Sundays, most people are on their way home because it's back to work on Monday. So, ticket prices begin to go up on Thursday, skyrocket on Friday and Saturday, and then begin to show a slight decrease on Sunday. So the best days to purchase tickets to Las Vegas are Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday.

Plan your stay in Vegas to include the weekend. Try, at least, to stay through Saturday night, which is the busiest time for airlines and the most expensive day to travel.

Book your flight as far ahead of time as possible. The earlier you can book your flight the bigger the discount you can get. On the flip side, if you are a last minute sort of person, you may be able to get a good deal very close to your travel date. This is because, at almost zero hour, the airline is trying to fill up empty seats. This method of purchase is risky, however, and not all companies do this.

Look out for special deals. Airlines usually offer knockdown prices during the slow periods. If you are not particular about when you want to get to Sin City then this is be a good option for you. Remember, Las Vegas is buzzing with action all year round. To stay informed of these deals, subscribe to airline newsletters and alerts and check http://www.lasvegas-how-to.com regularly.

Look into combining packages. Some companies offer reservations for hotels and car rentals as well as flights. If you book one or more of their services, they will offer you a discount.

If you have ever considered buying time-shares in Las Vegas then you may want to combine business with pleasure. In a bid to attract buyers, some real estate companies will fly you out and put you up free so you can get a taste of the Vegas lifestyle. The only requirements are that you fit into a specified income group, take a serious look at what they have to offer and listen to the sales pitch. A word of warning though, make sure you are serious about making a purchase and do not try to take these companies for a ride. Read the fine print. Some companies will charge you for the flight and accommodation if you don't buy what they are selling.
Link

Kerala Tourism

by Culture Holidays
Kerala, India's most advanced society : A hundred percent literate people. World-class health care systems. India's lowest

infant mortality and highest life expectancy rates. The highest physical quality of life in India. Peaceful and pristine, href="http://www.cultureholidays.com/kerala/">kerala is also India's cleanest State.Palakkad is a part of the erstwhile

Malabar district of Madras Presidency. The district accounts for about 11.5% of the total land area of the state of

Kerala, with the share of population is 8.20.%. The literacy rate of the district is low than the state. The district

has got two types of climates. Ottappalam, Alathur and Mannarkkad are having a climate similar to that of other districts of

Kerala , whereas Palakkad and Chittur are having rather a dry climate similar to Tamilnadu. However the average rainfall is

good for cultivation. There are five taluks and 163 villages in the district. There are four Municipal towns and Ninety

panchayaths in the district. The district is divided into 13 Community Development Blocks for the effective implementation of

various developmental activities. Thiruvananthapuram is the capital of Kerala. The wooded highlands on the Western Ghats in the eastern and northeastern borders give Thiruvananthapuram some of the most enchanting

picnic spots. A long shoreline, with internationally renowned beaches, historic monuments, backwater stretches and a rich

cultural heritage make it a much sought after tourist destination. Welcome to yet another splendid,unparalleled attraction of God's Own Country. An event that is as much part of the land's ethos as the elephant pageant. A sport that signifies the

excellent team spirit, integration and amity of the people of this backwater country. Occasions of great excitement that is a

reflection of a vibrant peopleWelcome to the snake boat races of kerala

.Magnificent fiestas that brings alive the tranquil backwaters. Snake boat races are held in connection with Onam, the

harvest festival in August/September. Scores of long snake boats and other smaller crafts participate in these events.

The largest team sport in the world,the snake boat races are preceded by colourful water parades.Usually a snake boat is

manned by four helmsmen, 25 singers and 100 - 125 oarsmen who row in unison to the fast rhythm of the vanchipattu (song of

the boatman). Thousands of people crowd the water's edge to cheer the huge black crafts as they slice through the waters to a

spectacular finish.ThiruOnam, the traditional Main Festival of Kerala, is celebrated normally in the second half of August

(around August-September -the Chingam month of Kollam Era) when the August monsoon rains come to an end and the summer heat

gives way to the pleasant warmth of the Kerala autumn. This is a festival of togetherness, happiness and

sharing.Anthropologists see in Onam a great fertility rite, the ceremony of thanksgiving for a plentiful harvest. Onam is

celebrating every where in the world where there is Keralaites. For Keralaites Onam is the celebration of the return of

Mahaabali, their once beloved king. Kerala offers a variety of accommodation options. Starting from luxurious hotels to economy hotels, all are available in Kerala. In order to make the travel tour to Kerala even more joyful we at

Tourismofkerala.com offer just the right kind of accommodation for you and your family or friends in Kerala. We can customize

the tour package to Kerala and offer best of hotels in Kerala in the packages. The reservations of the hotels room in Kerala

can be made well in advance as per the requirements of the tour.For more detail Click here

A guide to Gatwick Airport's hand luggage restrictionsA guide to Gatwick Airport's hand luggage restriction

by Paula Garrett
Strict hand luggage and liquid restrictions were imposed at Gatwick, and all UK airports, last summer. These restrictions have been in place for more than a year now, and yet, in excess of five tons of liquids and gels are confiscated at the UK airports every day due to ignorance of the restrictions.

Ignorance of the restrictions can be extremely expensive - a few weeks' ago one UK airport reported confiscating a £750 vintage bottle of champagne packed in a passenger's hand luggage. Whilst not everyone carries, or can afford to carry, such expensive items in their hand luggage, failure to adhere to the restrictions will lead to the confiscation of perfume, beauty products, sun cream or anything that falls outside regulations. The current restrictions are detailed below to assist you in packing your hand luggage and help you avoid losing money.

Hand luggage restrictions Passengers are permitted to carry ONE item of hand baggage each, no larger than 56 x 45 x 25cm (22 x 17.7 x 10 inches) including wheels, handles and outside pockets - these dimensions are the maximum size allowed - some airlines specify smaller hand luggage sizes and it is always advisable to check with your airline's website prior to departure. Other bags, such as a handbag (purse), may be carried but must fit within the single item of cabin baggage. A laptop, if carried, must fit within the one item of hand baggage, or if carried separately will be regarded as the one piece of cabin baggage.Any gifts carried in hand luggage must not be wrapped and must fit within your one bag entitlement.

Restrictions on liquids Liquids, gels and aerosols can only be carried in individual 100ml containers (larger containers, even if only partially full, will be confiscated) and should fit comfortably within a transparent, re-sealable bag measuring a maximum of 20cm by 20cm, with a capacity of no more than a litre. Where possible, it is advisable to put all liquids, such as water, drinks, creams, sprays, pastes and gels, in check-in luggage. Don't forget liquids include all perfumes, sprays and pressurised containers including shaving foam and spray deodorants, mascara, soups, liquid foundation, toothpaste, hair and shower gel and sun cream. If you have any questions connected with cabin baggage they should be directed to Gatwick Airport or your airline before you travel.

Liquids can usually be purchased beyond airport security, in the departures area, as these liquids are subject to a separate screening process.

Baby Food Liquid baby food, water and milk, sufficient for the flight, can be taken through Gatwick airport security, however, the accompanying parent will be required to verify the liquids by tasting them.

Essential Liquid Dietary Foodstuffs Essential liquid dietary foodstuffs can be taken through airport security but will be subject to verification by the passenger.

Medicines required during the flight Any essential medicines for the period of the trip may be permitted in larger quantities than 100ml but will require authentication - passengers must have obtained agreement with the airline and airport prior to departure and must bring supporting documentation with them from a relevant qualified medical professional.

Syringes required for diabetics or for other medical reasons will only be permitted in hand luggage if medical necessity can be proven. Check with the airline in advance to check what proof is required.

Cigarette lighters One lighter per person may be carried through security. Lighters form part of the liquid allowance and must fit within the liquids bag, however, they may be screened separately. Passengers must carry their lighter on their person for the duration of the flight - they must not be placed in hand luggage.

Cigarette lighters are not permitted in hand baggage or about your person when travelling to/from/via the USA and specific Caribbean countries - Barbados and Jamaica.

Pushchairs, walking aids and wheelchairs These are permitted but will be security screened.

Musical instruments Large musical instruments that do not fit into the hand luggage bag are allowed as a second item of cabin baggage but will be screened separately. Passengers must check with their airlines as to whether special arrangements are required, such as purchasing an extra seat for the instrument.

The above security restrictions have been in place for more than a year and it should be noted that if you pack banned substances which are confiscated at the airport, you will not be compensated and items are rarely returned.
Link

Coping With Vacation Issues

by sammy maseko
Starting with the family

There are a few popular family vacation destinations but with a little creativity you may be able to find the perfect travel destination for you and your family. Camping trips are one example of a great family vacation. If you want to plan the ultimate family vacation where your children will be thrilled with every activity, you should plan on in central Florida. In addition, you can go fishing or rafting, which are great activities to do with your family or alone.

The beach is the place to be

The combination of glorious weather, pristine rainforest, white sandy beaches, and an ocean varying in hue from blue to turquoise to green, ensures it's where the world wants to go to lie on the beach, swim, surf, snorkel, sail, bushwalk and bird watch. A concealed villa with a patio and a pool, a cute condo decorated in an island theme, or a beach bungalow that separates you from the crowds could all mean the difference between an acceptable trip and one that is utterly amazing.

Summer time vacations

But, because this is often the only period families are able to spend together, how can you take a summer vacation that allows you to relax and get the most out of your time alongside the kids. With research and proper preparation, you can have a comfortable, pleasing summer vacation that won't keep you up at night stressing about making everyone pleased and broadening the budget.

Fishing for fish

When you are planning a fishing vacation, you will first want to decide what type of fishing you're interested in. Going on a fishing vacation can bring relaxation to you and your family. If you are looking for a fun and relaxing vacation, you should consider a Canada Fly-in Fishing Vacation. Vacation packages offer good value. For example, one vacation package offers those looking for a quiet, relaxing atmosphere with the opportunity to experience fly-in fishing on Hearne Lake in Canada.

The outdoor activities

For outdoor you should choose a location with a variety of indoor and outdoor activities for when the weather turns bad. While skiing and snowboarding are certainly the most popular activities, winter brings out a whole other collection of outdoor adventures that you should definitely check out.

Security matters a lot

You should make sure you have a smart plan when flying. Plan your packing, and have a home security plan. Arrive Early for your Flight - Most airports have long check-in and security lines. And for your home, many security firms have round the clock monitoring and direct links to the law enforcement agencies. Ideally one of the best ways to protect your home is with a state of the art security system.

Always keep safe

You should first try to learn about safety issues NOT found in the travel brochures or vacation websites. For personal safety reasons; a tourist guide is highly recommended if you are traveling to exotic destinations. But wait and take some time now to think about your safety with these easy but life-protecting tip - ask the hotel staff about the safety of jogging nearby or walking from your hotel to nearby restaurants, movie theaters or the parking lot.

On to lodging

Las Vegas usually has affordable lodging in good locations close to the Strip. You will find warm mineral springs, world class dining, many unique and unusual shops, five full-service spas and vast choices in lodging from elegant B&B's and historic inns, rental cabins and resorts. For those that just want to stay at a resort and not venture too far away, and also are content with standard lodging arrangements, all inclusive resort vacations can be a great deal.

Insurance in travel

So, before you leave on your trip, check to see if your homeowners or property insurance will ensure your clubs in transit. Many people also purchase diving or travel insurance as well, because their regular insurance won't cover it. And please don't forget to make sure your passport and picture ID are up-to-date, finding out if travel insurance is something you need, and how and where to exchange your money.

The medical department

Make sure you've got adequate Medical Insurance, and that must include any extra cover you may need for injuries sustained on any extreme sports you may pursue. Or you may have some health problem that needs regular attention.

Keeping fit

Fitness and weight program is a good investment if you want to keep fit. And if you don't have one I suggest you download a fitness or weights program from the internet. When choosing a hotel or rest place find out if you will typically also have access to facilities such as a fitness gym, tennis courts, and beach clubs. Or the fitness devices you have at home.
Link

Thursday, September 27, 2007

Greek Classics

by Veronica Limone
Greece is a magical place to spend your holiday and there is no better way to enjoy food, friends, and submerge yourself in the culture and beautiful surroundings than from the comfort of your luxury villa in Greece.

A country with an extraordinary captivating mix of ancient and modern, Greece stands at a crossroads of culture and civilizations. From a villa explore Greek architecture, meet the locals and experience some authentic Greek cuisine.

The Greek islands are extremely popular amongst tourists and there are an abundance of resources at your disposal. The Ionian Islands are an integral part of the country's tradition and offer a picture postcard landscape that can never be truly captured. The best time of year to visit Greece is between Easter and mid June, with high season from mid June to the end of August. However things are slowly changing and you will find activities continue on into the winter months as well. Restaurants and bars remain open all year round on some of the islands.

The Greek territory consists of 6,000 islands and islets in the Ionian and Aegean Sea and only 227 of these are inhabited. The idyllic Ionian group of islands of Corfu, Paxi, Meganissi, Lefkada, Kefallonia, Antipaxi, Ereikoussa, Mathraki Ithaki, Zakynthos Othoni, Strofades and Kythira offer up lush landscapes tinged with Venetian flavours. Each island has its own unique culture and cuisine developed from a mixture of influences. Island gems include ancient olive groves, unspoilt villages, mountainside monasteries and famous wines.

Greece has a highly diverse coastline, long stretches of beaches and golden sands. Many of the beaches have been awarded the Blue flag and swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing and water skiing can be enjoyed safely. From a villa explore the breathtaking scenery, bathe in sunsets on the terrace or take a day trip to attractions into Athens, Delphi and Olympia on an island-hopper plane.

Staying in a villa is the next best thing to owning property in Greece and it allows you to get an authentic experience of the islands. You can choose to blend in with the locals and explore your beautiful surroundings or you can relax in the privacy and luxury of your villa, cooking Greek cuisine in your own kitchen. Enjoy the poolside views and relax in the sun by day and appreciate the mouthwatering al fresco dining by night in a luxury villa in Greece.
Link

Friday, September 21, 2007

I Love Touring Italy - Turin, Piedmont

by Levi Reiss
If you are looking for a European tourist destination, consider the Piedmont region of northern Italy. Depending on your interests, this beautiful area might be an ideal vacation spot. You can get classic Italian food, and wash it down with fine local wine. There are even some parts of Piedmont that haven't yet been discovered by tourists. This article presents Turin, the capital and largest city of the Piedmont. A companion article presents the rest of the Piedmont region.

Piedmont means foot of the mountains, and that describes the area perfectly. Turin, in the center of Piedmont, is pretty well surrounded by hills and by mountains such as the Alps. While the setting is beautiful, don't expect a Mediterranean climate such as found in most of Italy. The Piedmont climate is continental, with cold winters and hot summers, especially in the plains.

While Turin's population is slightly over nine hundred thousand, the population of its metropolitan area is well over two million. About one half of the Piedmont residents live in the greater Turin area. In a sense the 2006 Winter Olympics have put Turin on the tourist map and played a major role in its continuing development. As you will see, Turin, center of Italy's automobile manufacturing, is not just an industrial city.

This city was once a walled Roman military camp. Like so much of Italy, Turin and the entire Piedmont region was occupied again and again. What is unusual, however, is that the French House of Savoy ruled Piedmont for about five hundred years. They even returned to power after Napoleon's defeat. Not surprisingly a lot of French influence remains. Piedmont played a major role in the Risorgimento (Italian Unity Movement). Turin was the first capital of the United Kingdom of Italy between 1861 and 1865 ruled by Victor Emmanuel II, a Savoyard.

We commence our virtual tour of Turin right downtown. The Duomo di San Giovanni (St. John's Cathedral) dates back to the Fifteenth Century. The Cappella della Sacra Sindone (Chapel of the Holy Shroud) once contained the famous Shroud of Turin, brought to Turin in the Sixteenth Century by a member of the Savoy royal family. In 1997 a fire damaged the chapel, which remains closed until further notice. You can see a copy of this shroud near the Duomo's altar. But the Shroud itself is next scheduled for public display in 2025.

Other downtown churches worth seeing include the Seventeenth Century San Lorenzo (St. Lawrence) and the twin baroque San Carlo and Santa Cristina Churches. Cross the Po River to see the Nineteenth Century Chiesa della Gran Madre di Dio (Church of the Great Mother of God) said to be constructed over the Holy Grail and the Sixteenth Century Chiesa della Santa Maria del Monte (Church of St. Maria of the Mountain). Next door is a small but interesting museum devoted to mountains and mountain climbing, Museo Nazionale della Montagna (National Mountain Museum).

Make sure to visit the Museo Egizio (Egyptian Museum) considered to be one of the best in the world. For example, it contains hundreds of mummies and a burial chamber that's so complete it includes drafting tools, a cosmetic case, and a contemporary board game. In fact Jean-François Champollion, the first person to decipher Egyptian hieroglyphics, wrote "The road to Memphis and Thebes passes through Turin". GAM, the Galleria Civic d'Arte Moderna e Contemporanea (Civic Modern and Contemporary Art Gallery) on the edge of downtown is devoted to Italian contemporary art covering much more than the last one hundred years.

It is fitting that Italy's Detroit should host the Museo dell'Automobile (Automobile Museum). When they say antique cars, they mean antique cars, dating back to 1896. And what cars, the collection includes the first FIAT model, Bugattis, Ferraris, and actress Gloria Swanson's Isotta Franchini from the movie Sunset Boulevard.

The Borgo Medioevale (Medieval Village), built on the banks of the Po River more than one hundred years ago, represents a Fifteenth Century Piedmont village. Most buildings in the Borgo are copies of medieval buildings that actually exist in the Piedmont. You'll love the Rocca Medioevale (Medieval Castle) in the middle of the site.

Talking about castles, you won't want to miss the Palazzo Madama (Madame's Palace) situated in the Piazza Castello (Castle Plaza). This building, named for the Savoy Queen Maria Christina, once housed the Italian Senate. Do not confuse it with a building of the same name in Rome that houses the present Italian Senate. Like so many other Italian buildings the Turin Palazzo Madama houses temporary art exhibitions.

The nearby Seventeenth Century Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace) situated on an ancient Roman city gate had been the Savoy royal residence until 1865. You can visit some of the royal apartments and admire the tapestries, furniture, and royal gardens. A few blocks away is the birthplace of the first king of united Italy, Vittorio Emanuele II. Don't expect an Italian style log cabin; he was born in the majestic Palazzo Carignano that served as the seat of united Italy's first parliament from 1860 to 1865. This Palazzo is home to the Museo del Risorgimento (National Museum of the Italian Renaissance) devoted to the national unity movement.

While there are many, many other places of interest in Turin, we conclude by examining what is probably Turin's best-known landmark, the Mole Antonelliana, the official emblem of the 2006 Winter Olympics. This building, once the world's tallest brick structure, was originally supposed to be a synagogue but never served as such. It houses the Museo Nazionale del Cinema (National Cinema Museum) with a film library containing seven thousand films.

What about food? The Piedmont region is well known for all kinds of food, often with a French style. Don't forget that it was ruled by the French House of Savoy for over five hundred years. Turin claims to have invented solid chocolate. Once upon a time, if you wanted a chocolate fix, you needed a cup or a glass. Of course, you still can get great chocolate drinks in Turin. For example, the house specialty of the world famous Al Bicerin is a hot drink brimming with chocolate, coffee, and cream. They even sell chocolate-flavored pasta. La Dolce Vita. Grissini (Bread Sticks) were also invented in Turin. Turin's real thing is quite different from the store-bought version thousands of miles away.

Let's suggest a sample menu, one of many. Start with Risotto al Barbaresco (Risotto cooked in Barbaresco wine). Then try Vitello Tonnato (Veal in Tuna Sauce). For dessert indulge yourself with Grandiuto (Chocolate with Cocoa, Hazelnuts, and Sugar). Be sure to increase your dining pleasure by including local wines with your meal.

We'll conclude by taking a brief look at Piedmont wine. Well over half the region's wine production is either DOC or DOCG wines. DOC stands for Denominazione di Origine Controllata, which may be translated as Denomination of Controlled Origin, presumably a high-quality wine. At last count there were 44 such wines coming from Piedmont. Add a G for Guarantita and there are seven such Piedmont wines, including Barolo, felt by many to be Italy's finest red wine, and Barbaresco. But Piedmont also produces many fine DOC or unclassified wines.
Link

A Spanish Tourists Destination with Religion

by Ray Walberg
There are many buildings and attractions in Spain that look as they did centuries ago, but there are few that still operate like they did in the generations that have past. The Monasterio de las Descalzas Reales is one such location. It is the monastery of the barefoot nun, and while that may sound like a funny name, it is a location of serious religion and serious art.

The convent was originally created in 1559 by Charles V's daughter. She envisioned the location as a noblewoman's retreat. At that time, it was a royal palace that allowed the noblewomen of Spain to retreat to silence. The next 200 years saw the location known as a completely practicing convent. Eventually outsiders were kept out, and the property became solely a convent.

In addition to an area to contemplate and grow in their religion, those inside the convent could also grow in their appreciation for art, as it houses a private art museum with a number of pieces of art as well as historical artifacts.

In recent years, the convent opened its doors to tourists, who are allowed to come inside the walls during scheduled tours.

The convent is an architectural spectacle in itself. The walls are made of vibrant orange stone with inviting archways, Renaissance doors and construction. Walking through the grounds and the carefully tended gardens you will feel as if you have gone back to the time of Charles V himself.

The art collection is varied and beautiful. Many of the items that are in the collection were brought to the convent by those who wished to reside within its walls. They would bring the pieces of art and artifacts as their dowry or offering to become a 'bride of Christ'. Now all those items are one of the attractions many want to see when visiting the area. Among the paintings in the gallery are those by Brueghel, Titian, and Zurbarán . There are also Rubens inspired hand-woven tapestries and sculptures by Crescenci and Mena.

Since the 1960's the public has been able to take part in enjoying the grounds that the Franciscan nuns have so lovingly cared for all these years. They opened the convent to the public, and tourists are invited to see the area through tours that they conduct. While many wonder if they can just wander the grounds and take it all in by themselves, that is not allowed. The only way an outsider can visit the convent is by being a part of one of the tours guided by the nuns. On the tour, visitors will see both the convent grounds and the art collection on the site.

If you don't speak Spanish, you will not understand much of what is said on the tour, since it is only given in the native language, but as you walk through, you may well find the tour fulfilling without even knowing what is being said by the tour guide. If you do have questions, English questions are allowed at the end of the tour and answers will be given to your questions.
Link

Tour in Spain

by Peter Wilson
Many people say there is nothing like a good book. How about a good building full of books and a lot of history. That is what one of Spain's biggest attractions in Madrid has to offer. If you are traveling through Spain, you owe it to yourself to schedule a tour of the Biblioteca Nacional .

From the outside, the building is magnificent. It has a neoclassical façade and the archways are a site many spend a lot of time gazing upon. While it looks amazing from all angles, it really is breathtaking to walk straight forward towards the building and then look up, taking in the magnitude.

You may well run out a number of pictures on your camera with photos of the Corinthian column carvings, statues, and wrought iron gating. The doors are adorned with images of many of Spain's most famous writers. You will be able to pick out Leon and Cervantes. Once inside, you can marvel at the books in the library. There are more than 5 million of them. While it is not the world's biggest library, it is still impressive and is the largest collection of Spanish writings in the world.

The library's books started with the 1712 formation of Phillip V's royal library. Some of the books were acquired in the expected way, of being purchased or given to the library. Others, were taken in seizures. Now considered the National Library of Spain, the library has volumes that detail the complete history of the country and it's growth through the centuries, as well as nearly anything you could imagine relating to Spanish culture. For history buffs, the fact that over a half million of the books are pre 1831 is a major draw.

Those with an appreciation for art may want to take a tour of the engravings and drawings in the collection, or the maps that show the paths explorers would take traveling the world. The library's collection of these items are also unrivaled anywhere else in the world.

Even if you have no literary aspirations, you will still enjoy the inside of the library as much as you enjoyed the outside. The internal architecture is just as impressive. With the silence in the building, you can walk the halls and you may find your imagination taking you back in time through the centuries to get a feel for what it may have been like living in that far in the past. You can also think about the fact that the books and other works you can look at and study are those same pieces that have been looked at and studied by many royal figures in generations past.

In addition to being a location for research, the library also is often a location for exhibitions, showing off the drawings of artists such as Rembrandt.

The library is open all year long, and there is no charge for admission to the building.
Link

Holiday and History in Madrid

by Greg Muldec
One of the locations very few would want to miss while visiting Madrid, Spain is the Puerta del Sol, or 'Gate of the Sun'. This is a roadwork system that looks much like the sun. It starts with a slab outside the Casa de Correos, and going out from that slab are the set of six roads that make up the highways of Spain. As you begin your holiday of exploring Madrid, this is the place to begin.

At one time, the gates were the entryway into Madrid. Back in the 15th century it was important to be fortified and the city was encompassed by a protective wall.

Now your holiday to this area will find less in the arena of military fortifications and more in the arena of interesting attractions. Among them, a massive bear sculpture. He is eating fruit from a madrone tree. The tree is where the city gets it's name, and the Bear is a symbol of strength for the people of the city.

As you continue your travel into the city down Alcala Street, stop at the Regina Hotel. From this location you can see the unique statues on top of the banks before your continue your trip.

One of Madrid's most important sites is not far away. It is the House of the Post Office. You will spot this building as the one with the large clock face on the side of the tower. It was built in 1768, and if you happen to be in the area around the New Year Holiday, this will be the location of the major celebrations. The holiday celebration is the traditional festival eating of Twelve Grapes. When the clock chimes, all will cheer in celebration of the New Year.

In addition to being a location for celebration and merriment during holiday times, the Puerta del Sol is also a location that has more serious moments as well. It is commonly a location where political demonstrations and protests are held. It is very possible you will see one during your travels.

Also in this area are all the other things you will be looking for on your vacation. There are a large number of shops that offer anything from department store shopping to specialty shops, antique shops and other venues. There are also a number of attractions to view, as well as a great supply of restaurants so you can try out a lot of the local fare.

You will not be at a loss for night life when you visit Madrid. Often some areas just start kicking into high gear after midnight. There are street musicians, and a festive attitude as well as a number of bars and dance establishments to keep you busy until the wee hours of the morning. And when morning comes and you are ready to take up touring again, you are just a short distance from the Royal Palace or Palacio Real, parliament, Plaza Mayor, and many more shops and restaurants waiting for you along the way
Link

Thursday, September 20, 2007

Traveling the Royal Side of Madrid

by Linden Walhard
For a feel of royalty while traveling through Madrid, you need not go far, just to the Palacio Real, or the Royal Palace. An astounding building, it has nearly 3000 rooms, not to mention it's 40 staircases, and 240 balconies. When it comes to the magnitude of the building, it only comes second to Versailles.

When adding the palace to your tourist destinations, you will be amazed at its magnitude. While less than 10 percent of the palace is open to the public, you will not even be able to see that portion of the structure in a single day. What you will see is astounding attention to detail in construction and decoration from the lush tapestries to the rococo decorations including porcelain and other precious treasures

The palace was originally created for Phillip V. It was then the location of the power of Spain and ruling much of the known-world of that time. The Palacio Real was occupied by a number of monarchs in Spain, the last being Alfonso XIII who lived there until 1931.

The Madrid destination may have a French Classical appearance to its architecture now, but its history was very different. The site was original Alcázar, a Moorish fortress constructed in the 9th century. It was destroyed by fire in 1734.

When you are traveling the palace grounds, there are some unique statues to behold. Included in the display are Montezuma, the Aztec king, and Alahualpa, an Incan prince.

As a tourist to the palace, you may opt to be guided through the grounds through a two-hour presentation. On this tour, you will see the breathtaking ceramic walls and amazing sparkling chandeliers of the Salón de Gasparini. You will also get a feel for what formal dinners would be like, with a tour through the banquet hall that can hold over 100 guests.

Another astounding area to look upon is the throne room. This is the room that held one of the superpowers of the world in the 18th century. The throne room has two seats that royalty would use to send their influence to the world in the form of edicts.

You can also see how the power of the throne was backed up with a tour through the royal armory with it's display of armor and weapons, as well as torture devices that were used in the time of the Spanish Inquisition.

Another stop on the tour will be the Royal Library, or Biblioteca Real. Among the more impressive items on the shelves, an original, first edition of Cervantes Don Quixote, as well as a set of Stradivarius instruments.

If you ever wondered what medical care of the days of old was like, you will get that answer in the Royal Pharmacy. In this room you will see the instruments that were used to treat ailments of the royal family.

While a portion of the palace is a tourist attraction, many of the areas are still working facilities. You can watch the changing of the guard outside, and some days the pharmacy will be closed due to official functions.
Link

An Artistic Holiday in Spain

by Leroy Calstard
If you have a desire to see some of the best art in Spain, look no further than the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia on Calle Santa Isabel 52. Among the masterpieces hanging on the walls are works from Solana, Miro and Picasso.

One of the most famed pieces of the hundreds of works hanging on the walls of the Queen Sofia is Picasso's Guernica. That joined with the other works have ranked this museum's modern art collection as one of the most important not just in Spain, but in all off Europe.

When one thinks of modern art, they also usually think of that art being housed in a very modern gallery. This is not the case with the Queen Sofia. The building was constructed in the 18th century. It's life was to end in the 1970's, with a date to be demolished, but it was then declared a historic monument and preserved, then turned into a museum.

Not only is the building a place to view great works, it also offers a great view of the city. The building has transparent framed elevators that you will travel on as you go to the gallery. From the elevator, you can get a fabulous view of Madrid.

Once you step out of the elevator, your art experience is underway. First, you will encounter a selection of Solana artworks including The Circle of the Cafe Pombo, The Meeting of the Pharmacy, and The Chorus Girls. While these are more modern of pieces, the collection runs the range from the late 19th century to modern day works.

There is an ample collection of Miro in the museum, which is a very popular attraction with the crowds who come in. The collection includes Escargot, Femme, Man With A Pipe, Fleur, and Femme et Oiseau Dans La Nuit (Woman and Bird in the Night). These works were painted in the 20s and 30s in Barcelona.

Another very popular series of works in the museum are those of Dali. Included at the Queen Sophia are By the Light of the Moon from 1927, the 1945 portrait Galarina, and his 1951 and 1955 Crucifixion paintings.

Of course, many are drawn to the several Picasso pieces housed in the museum. They may not be what many would expect from a Picasso assortment. Included in this collection is his 1896 First Communion , which has a young Picasso painting in a very academic style. In addition, the 1901 Woman In Blue also shows some of his younger work.

You begin to see Picasso's cubist style in the 1907 Las Señoritas de Avignon . Eye catching is the 1937 Guernica painting, which displays Picasso's impression of a bombing of this town.

The Queen Sophia collection is not limited to paintings. The collection also includes over 46,000 square yards of exhibition area which houses a number of pieces of porcelain, glass, pottery and other works of art. In addition, there is a library for studies and research into artworks, as well as a cafeteria once you work up an appetite from your travel through the vast halls.
Link

See the Outdoors on your Madrid Trip

by Greg Muldec
You should always stop and smell the roses. You can do just that in Retiro Park in Madrid. But that is just the beginning of the magic at the Parque del Buen Retiro. While the park is only 300 acres, not massive for a park, that space is well used to display sculptures and monuments. A number of events for the holidays call the area around the park's lake home, and this small space has grown from a place just to take a stroll into a not-to-miss attraction in the city.

Once upon a time this park was the part of a royal palace belonging to Phillip IV. You can see some of that history in the Casón Del Buen Retiro as well as the Museo del Ejército. Unfortunately, the other buildings that would have shown this history were destroyed early in the 19th century during the Napoleonic wars.

No longer a building for war, the Casón instead is the home of great works of art, 19th and 20th century paintings. Among the items in the collection are pieces from the Spanish painter Sorolla.

To learn about the warfare history of Spain, you should plan a trip to the Ejército. It is now the most prominent of Spain's Army museums. Among their claims to fame, a sword called La Tizona that belonged to El Cid, the famous Spanish Warrior. In addition there is a cross that was carried across the ocean by Columbus as he took his trip to discover America, and other armor and artifacts to study.

The park has been open to the public for about 140 years, although it was created over 370 years ago. Now it is a place where residents and visitors alike can stroll along the walkways enjoying the lush vegetation, and also enjoying the sounds of street musicians, and the views of jugglers and other street performers. Holidays have the area filled with a festive flair. Looking for something extra peaceful to do. Near the northern entrance of the park is the Estanque del Retiro Lake. If you want a new view of the park, you can rent a boat and take in the view from the water as you row across the lake. Along the lakeside you will see the 1922 statue of King Alfonso XII atop his horse, seemingly riding along the shore. There is also another lake at the opposite end of the park. Next to this lake is the Crystal Palace or Palacio de Cristal. It was originally created as a home for a number of exotic plants and was created in the image of a similar building in London, back in 1887. The park even offers something for art lovers, with the Palacio de Velázquez. Inside this building are some of the temporary exhibits of the Queen Sofia museum.

Then there is the place where you can literally smell the roses, the Rosaleda. This is a magnificent rose garden that is a stopping point for all who visit the park. In the midst of the beauty of the roses is a striking statue showing Satan as a fallen angel, titled El Angel Caído

Once you have worked up an appetite, the Serrano Street Restaurants of Madrid are not far away.
Link

Honeymoon Cruises

As you begin to plan your honeymoon, and you start doing some research, you begin to realize that there are a lot of honeymoon options out there for you to choose from. Hopefully you only get one chance to plan your honeymoon so why not consider one of the many honeymoon cruises to choose from? A honeymoon cruise can be a romantic getaway to a tropical island somewhere or even up to see the beauty of the Alaskan sunsets. Your choices are endless with a honeymoon cruise so do some research and get ready to sail.

Honeymoon cruises can be booked one of two ways and either way is just as effective as the other as long as you do your homework. The first way is directly through the cruise company. Many cruise companies offer honeymoon cruises that are all inclusive as far as the ship and the accommodations for any stops may be concerned. It is always a good idea to inquire about flights to and from the port to make sure you are covered there as many cruise lines do not offer flight arrangements. The second way to book your honeymoon cruise is through a travel agent. A travel agent will cost you a fee but they will also do a complete honeymoon cruise package that will include everything you need including airfare and all accommodations.

To me there has always been a variety of destinations for a honeymoon cruise and, in the end, your final choice will solely depend on your own personal preference. If you prefer the warm weather then you can visit the Bahamas, or maybe Mexico, or even plan a cruise to visit the islands of Greece and all of the treasures they have for you to experience. If you are looking for a cooler climate then consider a cruise to Alaska. I hear that there is no more beautiful sunset anywhere in the world than in Alaska and what is more romantic than a beautiful sunset?

You have a lot of choices to make when it comes to planning your honeymoon cruise and there is one more factor you will need to consider in order to make your planning successful. All types of cruises usually book well in advance so if you want to take the guessing and the worry out of booking your cruise then I suggest you begin looking into it at least one year in advance.
Link

Cheap Airline Tickets without Giving Anything Away.

By: Philip Smith
Don’t throw away that chance to enjoy your vacation even more by saving with cheap airline tickets. For years you have stuck to making those holiday and travel bookings with the same major airline that has consistently rewarded your loyalty with frequent flyer miles. In more recent times it has become easy to book with the airline online, get your e-ticket, and sometimes manage to cope with the complexity of changing flights, and getting a refund following a cancellation, without ever having to front up at the airline travel desk.

Now you can achieve all that and more while making super savings on the air ticket price. Shopping around on online travel sites is so incredibly easy and with just a little time spent checking out the policies and procedures relating to the site’s service you can make the right decision which will free up more of the budget to use while on vacation. Or just to bring that more desirable but more expensive destination to within your reach. While you are searching and comparing, look through the many vacation packages that come up in promotional deals offered by many websites selling the lowest of airfares. Take advantage of other related services to win with the best value accommodation and rental car deals.

As well as comparing a number of web sites for booking flexibility and the most competitive booking fees, look among the extra features offered for those sites that get you frequent flyer miles as well as the cheap fare. You haven’t had to give away anything and yet you have access to so much more. Some sites offer a low fare guarantee. Many offer low fares you won’t have found on that airline’s site (exclusive deals given out as special web only promotions).

Cheap tickets for domestic air travel or international, online travel sites make sure you find the best price in town without leaving your desk or making a phone call.
Link

Monday, September 17, 2007

Guide to Malaysia: Kuala Lumpur

by Hosh
Malaysia's capital city, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore are very similar places, in terms of the booming economy and skyscrapers dominating the city area, but there are a few places still worth a visit here.

Petronas Twin Towers First and foremost is the Petronas Twin Towers, which was once the tallest building in the world, until Taiwan came up with their own 1O1, and now Dubai also in the picture with their still-under-construction tower building. Here, long queues are always forming from 8.30am onwards for the free passes up the tower viewing gallery. But be warned that they would only issue around 800 free passes per day for the guided tour, so make sure to reach there early. The guided tour will take visitors all the way up to the sky bridge on the 41st floor.

I was there early queuing in the morning but the timing for my guided tour was scheduled in the afternoon due to the high demand for the free passes. So a good way would be to shop at the mega Suria KLCC shopping mall just next to it while waiting for your scheduled timing up the tower. You can pay a visit to the Petrosains over there, a discovery centre about petroleum manufacturing. At Petrosains, visitors will start with a ride in the dark which covers details on oil manufacture and the science of it.

At a dizzying height of 458 meters, Petronas Twin Towers, a pair of 88-storey buildings, is the best place to take in the view of Kuala Lumpur. There is also the Philharmonic Theater, which surrounds one with wonderful music from the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra.

Menara Kuala Lumpur Another icon representative of KL is the Kuala Lumpur Tower (Menara Kuala Lumpur). Located on a hill called Bukit Nanas, this tower has an observatory platform which is easily accessible by high speed lifts. Taking the lifts up clocks less than a minute, and the view from the observatory tower is spectacular. You can get a bird's eye view of the Twin Tower and other magnificent buildings nearby. There's also a very cosy, revolving restaurant at the top of the tower, offering excellent buffet and great service for a reasonable price. Live music, excellent food, splendid views of the city, this is the place to be in. You might even be able to see Genting Highlands on a fine day!

Sunway Lagoon Sunway Lagoon is probably one the best integrated resorts in Malaysia. Within the holiday resort itself is a shopping complex with over 300 shops, an amazingly large lagoon, an Extreme park, Zoo, archery range, bowling alley and a water theme park. Alongside the shopping mall and the resort is a first-class hotel. Several restaurants offer excellent cuisine as well. It's self sufficient, and indeed a well-worth trip to make.

Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque In Shah Alam (about 45 minutes from KL) lies one of the largest mosques in South-east Asia, the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque (In Malay: Masjid Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz). This impressive building is often nicknamed the "Blue Mosque", for its blue aluminum dome covered with verses from the Quran. It is huge and magnificent, and surrounded by the great lake of Shah Alam in the center of Shah Alam town. It incorporates modern architectural style with Malay architecture in its design.

Batu Caves About 13 km north of KL is the Batu Caves, a place of worship for the Hindus. Large and imposing, it consists of three main caves and a number of smaller ones. The caves are made of limestone and discovered in 1892. You've got to climb up a long fairly steep flight of stairs to enter the caves. A comfortable pair of shoes will work wonders. The surreal carvings and paintings on the walls of the caves will impart a sense of spiritual feel to all who enters.

Merdeka Square, Central Market and Chinatown Back to KL city centre, the Merdeka Square houses the tallest flagpole and has an ancient fountain. It is always crowded with tourists and a visit at night would be much cooler. The Merdeka Square is between the majestic Court House and the Selangor Club. The Central Market and Chinatown are also a mere 10 minutes walk away. Chinatown, also known as Petaling Street is one of Kuala Lumpur's most popular tourist destinations. In the evenings, a beehive of stalls comes alive on the streets.

You can easily find a large variety of food ranging from roadside stalls to restaurants in Chinatown, offering plentiful choices from dumpling noodles, claypot chicken rice, bbq chicken wing, seafood to steamboat and more. Though it might get a little difficult to move around due to the crowds, the historical shop houses add to the ambience. This is also the place to get cheap t-shirts, souvenirs and almost any other things, but prices haven risen considerably in recent years due to the tourism effect. Bargaining is highly recommended.

Hotels are considered cheap in this modern city, and good hotel deals can be found almost any time of the year. A holiday trip to this city can be a wonderful experience, not mentioning easy on the pockets.
Link

Safe Hiking At Outdoor Travel Destination

by Peter Wilson
Hiking can be a great outdoor vacation or adventure, and usually it is not dangerous. But, you are outside and often find yourself far from civilization, and you could get injured or even worse. With that in mind, it is very beneficial to heed some basic safety tips to keep your hiking adventure a pleasant experience.

First, do not travel alone. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule. If you are strolling along a well-traveled area, you are probably safe. But, hiking through a thick forested area with canyons and winding trails is a different story. You could easily get lost.

Traveling with someone can help in many ways, especially if your partner has some experience with hiking. You can help each other up steep grades or apply first-aid if needed, though hopefully not. Also, if one hiker is injured, the other can travel back to the trail head to seek help.

Secondly, it is important to know where you are going. You may want to give someone your tentative course before you leave in the event you do get lost. Stay on well-traveled or clearly marked trails, that is unless you are experienced enough to go off the main trails.

No, the marked trails may not be as interesting but getting lost is even less fun. A map, GPS or compass is a necessity for any serious hiking trip. Since not all GPS units function in all areas, get details on your travel destination and determine if your GPS unit will help you in that location.

Third, do not go overboard on the gear you bring but be sure to take some basic gear. Bring either matches or a lighter, but keep in mind that lighters can run out of fuel and matches can get wet. Take your pick! A knife can also be a lifesaver, in the literal sense, especially those with useful gadgets.

A simple first aid kit can also be a lifesaver. Include bandages and gauze, anti-bacterial cream and other standard items. Sunburn and anti-itch reliever and aspirin may also prove to be appreciated items during the hike.

It is, of course, important to have some knowledge of first-aid also. For example, aspirin can at times be harmful. Or, if you do not know the difference between arterial and venous bleeding, bandages and gauze will do you no good.

A flashlight is a necessity, and toilet paper is just a good idea!

Fourth, take some basic provisions to keep you hydrated and your energy level high. Fluids, both water and sport drinks, are obviously essential. A heat stroke can kill someone, but it is preventable. Water weighs about eight pounds per gallon so take what you need, but not less.

Be sure to bring enough food for the entire hike. Depending on what you ring, about one pound daily is average for a male of medium build.

Finally, use common sense. Enjoy your hiking holiday and the beautiful surroundings. But, do not get carried away and tempt Mother Nature!
Link

Your Family Vacation, Activities And Tours

by Ken Morris
Many families decide each year to take a summer vacation. Though many do choose to vacation during the summer season, even more families choose to vacation during the off-season. What category does your family travel fall into?

There are several reasons why some families are not able to take a family vacation, one of the most common involving the cost. Unfortunately, many adhere to the disbelief that a vacation has to be an extravagant trip. This is not true, though. Whether you travel to a nearby amusement park, camp at a state park, or travel around the globe, each one can be a fabulous summer vacation.

Busy schedules are another reason many families are unable to take a family vacation. They forget that the purpose of a vacation is to getaway and take a break from those busy schedules. For this reason, summer vacations are a popular time because the kids are out of school and this may be the only time for the entire family to getaway together. Whether you set aside three days or two weeks, you are encouraged to take a summer vacation and enjoy the benefits of spending some quality time with your family.

Quite possibly the greatest benefit of a family vacation is the time you will be able to spend together. In today's busy, fast-paced society, many families spend very little time together due to long work hours, busy extracurricular activity schedules and homework. For many, a summer vacation is the only way a family can spend some quality time together uninterrupted by the routine daily demands.

Another benefit of a summer vacation is the relaxation for both the adults and the children. Today, children must function differently than in the past. They are bombarded with a lot of daily homework, busy sports schedules, after-school extracurricular activities and pressure to be at the top. This can be sometimes be a lot of pressure and difficult to handle. A summer vacation may be the rest and rejuvenation they need to meet the demands of another busy academic year.

In addition to you children, you and your partner are likely in need of some relaxation and rest as much or even more than your children. A summer vacation will give you the time you need to forget about work and personal demands. Forget about cleaning the house or turning in a work report, but rather fall into the role of tourist, relax, do some sightseeing and enjoy the time with your family.

You are encouraged to involve the entire family in choosing a destination, especially if your children are older. Be sure to choose a summer location that everyone will enjoy. Maybe schedule a guided tour that everyone agrees upon. Or, find a resort that has fun-filled activities you can do together as a family or the children can enjoy on their own.

Just remember: the purpose of the family vacation is to reconnect as a family, relax and rejuvenate. You busy schedule and work demands will be waiting for you return, don't worry. Just enjoy the family time!
Link

Romantic Holiday Ideas To Getaway And Reconnect

by Vince J. Paxton
Millions of families take summer vacations together each year. Travel with the entire family can be a wonderful experience, but there are times when you and your partner need some time alone. A romantic getaway may be just what you need and, fortunately, there are several options to choose from.

The first thing to consider when selecting a romantic summer getaway is what romance means to you. Some feel as if certain activities or settings ruin "the mood." For this reason, think about what it is you need and what you want to get out of the vacation.

If a beautiful tropical climate is what you are looking for, you might want to examine Barbados more closely. Barbados is an eastern Caribbean island in the Atlantic Ocean and is well-known for its fantastic coastal vacations which are ideal for romantic getaways. Barbados also offers an array of unique shops, entertainment venues and restaurants.

Tahiti is also another possibility. Located in the Pacific Ocean, it is referred to as the "most beautiful island in the world." This amazing island offers romantic summer vacations unlike any other. With so many romantic resorts from which to choose, restaurants and activities for couples, you will surely have the romantic getaway you need in Tahiti.

The Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania is another popular getaway for couples. Pocono resorts are known for their wintertime activities, but the resorts are open all year. During the off-season, the temperature may not be tropical, but they do offer privacy and a great place to escape to when you need to get away from the daily routines and activities.

Similar to the Pocono resorts, Paris France is not a tropical location but it is considered one of the most romantic places in the world. You will notice the romance as soon as you arrive in the city. In addition to the romantic hotels, you will find many amazing attractions. Many couples reaffirm their love and reconnect at The Eiffel Tower, one of the most popular attractions in the area if not the most popular.

Another option is to go on a romantic cruise. Several popular cruise lines offer ships specifically for couples, and the length of the getaway can vary anywhere from three to ten days, sometimes longer. On board, you are likely to find many relaxing, romantic and exciting activities you and your partner can enjoy.

Additionally, cruise ships often dock at several ports and a ship with a romantic theme is more likely to stop at ports with romantic settings. Though it varies by cruise ship, you are often permitted several hours or an entire day to explore the port area. Many couples find this exploration to feel like a separate holiday experience.

Keep in mind that the destination ideas above are only a few of the popular choices for couples. If these are not within your reach as far as budget or travel proximity, do not worry. There are thousands of other destinations from which you can choose!
Link

Thursday, September 13, 2007

Skiing Brits Find Eastern Property Promise In Bulgaria

By: eburberry
Bulgaria is cementing its lead as an investment property hotspot for skiers and snowboarders looking to own a slice of the slopes. The country's recent accession in the EU, together with the low prices and plentiful property facilitated by the building boom, are leading many British skiers and snowboarders to leapfrog their traditional favourite ski spots in France, Switzerland and Austria, in favour of Bulgaria's more modestly priced mountains.

The boom in property development in Bulgaria's best resorts have meant that brand new ski apartments can be snapped up for less than £30K. These low prices, combined with the preventive costs of getting on to the British property ladder, means that many young buyers are choosing Bulgaria for either investment property, a holiday home or a way of generating some extra income through rental returns.

As Bulgaria's premier ski resort, with the best snow record and longest ski season (mid December to mid may), Bansko has become the most popular location for British property investors to purchase. Previously perceived by some as being a budget ski destination, the $40 million investment in Bansko mean that in terms of size and facilities, the resort is now competing with other more established favourites in Western Europe.

However, it's not just Bansko that's big with the Brits; other prominent ski areas such as Borovetz and Pamporovo are also attracting interest. Borovets is Bulgaria's oldest ski resort which dates back to 1896 and offers pistes up to 2600m above sea level. Pamporovo's claim to fame comes in the form of its weather, and it's said to be the sunniest ski resort in Bulgaria.

There are also around a dozen other less well known ski areas in the country, such as Vitosha, Semkovo and Uzana, which are currently more geared towards local weekend skiers rather than the international snow sports market, but these are likely to grow in size in the coming years. The new development around Razlog is getting property investors excited as it will be combining a ski area with an 18 hole PGA golf course just 4km from Bansko, and is likely to attract a lot of interest from British buyers.

Though other European nationals have showed interest in buying property in Bulgaria, the British are leading the charge with an estimated 40,000 Britons now owning property in the country. And it's not just snow seekers who are looking to buy; the Black Sea beach resorts are also attracting adventurous Brits searching for a Bulgarian property investment with a healthy dose of sun and sea; the most popular places to buy are around the Varna area, in towns such as Kavarna and Albena Beach.

As Bulgaria's economy and infrastructure continues to develop, it's likely that it will grow even more popular with the property buying Brits - after all, when you can buy a plush ski apartment, town penthouse or beach villa in Bulgaria for the same price as a conservatory in Britain, it's not surprising that many are heading to the country in search of eastern property promise.
Link

Visiting France: France and Paris Vacations

By: Alistair White
For a holiday you will always treasure, be sure to visit France. With so much to offer within one country, France hosts the most tourists than any other country in the world. From romantic, cultural Paris to the heights of the snowcapped French Alps to the southern sizzling beaches. France hotels can add to the splendor of your trip with an amazing selection that can be found with ease on the internet.

Paris: fashion capital of Europe
Surrounded by style and romance you just cant help fall in love with Paris. Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower, street café’s and fashion boulevards, a boat trip on the River Seine there is so much to see and experience.

Transport: how to get there and around:
The main airport which greets most visitors to Paris is Charles de Gaulle. Paris can also be reached with ease by train from surrounding countries and many destinations within France. If traveling from the UK the ferry is also an option.

Getting around Paris is best on foot, it’s a great place for walking and sightseeing. If your not feeling so energetic there is a metro system.
Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays
The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of hotels in Paris.

Weather
Paris is fortunate to be situated in a basin so has little rain compared with the rest of the country. Generally the weather in the capital is temperate.

Attractions & Events
Parisians love to celebrate, here are just a few events you should look out for.

* The glamorous Paris Fashion Week showcases the latest designer spring collections in March.

*Bastille Day is a special day for the whole country. The French National Day is celebrated in Paris with style on the 14th July with parades, parties and fireworks.

*The International Photo Fair is also worth a visit and takes place in November.

Nice: treasure of the Côte d’Azur
Nice has a special ambiance and charm that attracts a great number of visitors to walk through its old cobblestone streets. Nice offers history, culture as well as the modern delights of shopping and night life. Add to this the long stretch of beach and you have a great holiday combination.

The temperature in Nice makes the pebble beach a great spot to relax. The waters are warm, clear and inviting and are just a pebbles throw away from neighboring St Tropez and Cannes.

Transport: how to get there and around:
Traveling around France is easy using the impressive, fast rail system. You can get to Nice by train and bus or if traveling from further a field, the International Airport is just 6 km’s from town. Ferries are also an option, they run to Corsica.
Getting around Nice is easy on foot, it is pleasant to walk around and explore the sights.

Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays
The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of Nice hotels.

Weather
Summertime in Nice can be scorching up to 40 C. Typical climate however can be described as Mild, averaging 15 C. Winter is also mild with lowest temperatures being around 5 C.

Attractions & Events
*Nice holds an annual carnival during the latter half of February. The lavish street parades end with a fabulous fireworks show.

*During June, the city hold religious processions and prayers for patron saints St John and St Peter.

*July is for music lovers as the worlds finest Jazz players meet in the city for the Nice Jazz Festival.
Link

Travel Insurance - 10 Top Tips

Author: Smith Chen
Insurance is one of those areas that is generally unavoidable; you’ll need it in some form or another somewhere along the line. For the majority of us that just happens to be every day.

One area always in the spotlight one way or another is travel insurance. Yet many of us still aren’t sure if it’s something we really need and to this end, many of us travel without it every year. Here are 10 top tips to help you make the right decision.

1) It is a common myth that if you take the European health card (E111) with you when you travel, you will be covered for anything that goes wrong. This is not the case. The card is just there to be given to a hospital, etc, in an emergency so they will treat you (this is still a must have for this reason). You will still be billed for any treatment you receive in a private health care system. For this reason holiday insurance can be invaluable.

2) When applying for your insurance policy, you must inform the company of any/all medical conditions you suffer from, no matter how small or insignificant they seem. This could prove to be something that voids your policy if you do not. You will find this most probably increases your premium, but it is worth it to keep your policy valid.

3) When looking for cheap travel insurance, be careful to check you are not losing out on any coverage that you will need, such as theft, cancellation of holiday/flights. You may find that some polices really are too good to be true and cover you for the bare minimum.

4) If you are planning to go on a trip that may include activities that could be viewed to be dangerous by the insurance company, you may find you will not be covered under most policies. You will need to find a policy aimed at covering for such activities, i.e. a winter ski policy or adventure holiday insurance. If you are thinking of backpacking, you would similarly be best to look for a backpacker’s policy.

5) The majority of companies offer single, multi trip, family and annual policies. If you are going to travel just once in a year as a single person or a couple, it will work out cheaper to apply for a single trip travel insurance policy. If however you will be travelling 2 or more times, a multi trip policy will save you money. The same applies to a family group, finding separate policies will be expensive, opt for a family policy and you will save money and most probably receive cover for children (under 18) free.

6) Always check excesses on the policy you choose, most policies are peppered with them and finding a policy with a better or no excess in an area you think relevant is prudent.

7) An important thing to remember in regards to item/theft insurance is; if you leave valuables unattended/ out of sight, you will not be protected.

8) An important “don’t” is not to let your holiday provider package the holiday insurance for you as it will work out much more expensive in the long run. In less than a couple of minutes you can find a much cheaper quote on a comparison site. Research from Alliance and Leicester has shown UK holiday makers overspend by ฃ1.3 billion on travel insurance each year, for this very reason.

9) It is important to remember that the insurance company will not pay out for an accident caused whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

10) Finally, in research done by the internet company Moneysupermarket.com it was found that you should ensure you have the following amounts of cover as minimum: Medical expenses 2m, personal liability 1m, cancellation 3,000, baggage 1,500, cash 250, a 24 hour emergency line and cover for legal costs and finally financial ombudsman service membership in case you need to complain.

Insurance and Roadside Assistance for Your Caravan Holiday


It is not until you break down that you realise just how much you really need insurance and roadside assistance. This is even more compounded when you are a long way from home on a holiday and you have no other way of getting anywhere or doing anything if your can or caravan has broken down.

You can not put a monetary price on your peace of mind. Insurance and roadside assistance provides that peace of mind when you are traveling so you can just enjoy your holiday.

Insurance

Before you take out your insurance, make sure you read and understand what is actually covered. Make sure it covers everything you need for the activities you have planned for your holiday and also covers the areas you intend to visit and stay. If you intend going off the beaten track, doubly make sure this is covered. Check out the “extras”, including such items as a free car hire in the event of an accident and if this appeals to you it may be worth paying the little bit extra. Prices can vary quite significantly so shop around first.

Make sure your comprehensive insurance covers both your vehicle and caravan. The benefits are obvious: the loss of some personal items within a vehicle is covered, as is damage to the vehicle through theft, vandalism or accident. Perhaps the most important benefit is the peace of mind you will have knowing you are covered if you are unfortunate to need insurance.

Make sure you carry copies of your insurance policies with you when you are on the road.

Roadside Assistance

Many new motor vehicles are sold with a manufacturer’s warranty that includes roadside assistance in the event of a breakdown. The warranty varies from one to three years or “X” number of kilometres, depending on the make and model of the vehicle. Check your policy carefully before you go. Make sure it covers the kind of travel you intend and the places you want to go. Details of your roadside assistance package, including contact numbers, are usually contained in the glove-box folder.

If you are not buying a new vehicle and not covered as above with your existing vehicle or you do not think the warranty offered is suitable, you should consider becoming a member of your State based motoring organisation. Similar to your insurance and roadside assistance, you will only fully realise the benefit of becoming a member if you break down and need them. The State based organisations all offer reciprocal breakdown assistance around Australia.

Different levels of membership are offered, so check out what is most suitable to you. If you are planning to more adventurous activities you may wish to go for the top level cover, which in most areas offers unlimited service calls and free towing. Motoring organisations also offer travel advice and sell maps, guide and car accessories. Once you have used their services, you may decide that the membership fee was the best money you ever spent.
Link