Travel and Leisure

The Top Ten Most Unique Cities of the World

2008-12-16T01:53:00.000-08:00

Most folks that write have never experience what they write; I have in most everything I’ve ever written, experienced it first, in one way or another. Here are the Top Ten Most Unique Cites of the world. When somebody writes about something, they got to know where they are coming from, because the writer is always biased. CNN did a review on the best places in the world to live a year ago or so, and I reviewed it, and did my own. Why? Because the person, or persons doing the review were limited in experience to do a proper review. Why do I say that, because they picked out Geneva, as the best place to live in his world? Their criteria were whatever it was, but Europe is no safer to live nowadays, than America, or New York City was in 2001. Geneva is prone to terrorist attacks just as much as New York City was, or any city that has a United Nations in it, or some form of world Government.

Another thing is, it is very expensive to live there, I’ve been to Switzerland, and it is not cheap. Plus, the weather is not all that hot or great, the Mantaro Valley of Peru is much better, likened to Arizona, safer and cheaper to live, with a good hospital near by Huancayo. I could go on, but my point is, their selection was bogus to me, simply a way to advertise Geneva so people would go there. So to be honest about what you write you must experience it. I’ve traveled for 38-years, over 700,000-air miles, to 60-countries, and 46-states. I’ve been on seven of the so called, eight continents (the eighth being the South Pacific Islands, I yet to go to Antarctica, then I will have been to all of them.

Hear is my list of cities:

1—Paris (France), yes I’m also biased, that is my prerogative though. Paris is my city, not necessarily its people, if indeed I could put Londoners into Paris, and kick out the Parisians, it would become even a greater city in my eyes. But here is a city, deserving or not, that has all the monuments, all the great museums, where all the great writers came, and painters, poets, cultures, and so forth and on, and on. Victory Hugo lived here was senator. Where Gertrude Stein open her doors to the US Military Men; where Hemingway, Fitzgerald, Joyce, Picasso and Dali, came to paint and write, experience. Notre Dame, perhaps the most grandest church in the world resides here, and the Arch of Triumph remain to be seen, to those of us who can feel victory over war. And of course the renowned Eiffel Tower, which played a part in the 1880s World Fair. I’ve also been to Paris four times. It surely is a city of lights, as New Orleans is a city of Night.

2—New York City (USA) I’ve been to NYC four times, it is to me, the city of bulk, took my breath away when I first saw it. And Battery Park, looking out into the bay, to the Statue of Liberty, is a humbling thing. Walking down 5th Ave, and through Central Park, onto Times Square, and down to the Empire State Building, is a unique experience. Manhattan: engulfs, and traps you. And I found it as safe, if not safer than Athens, Rome, or London.

3—Istanbul (Turkey)—it is a unique city near the Black Sea, and its streets, and Mosques (especially the Blue Mosque), Cathedral, and its towering walls that stretch up and down the straight, are marvelous. Here you can shop in the world's largest Bazaar (open Market), be careful, you can get lost. The food is good in Turkey, and the people are warm and friendly, be careful if you travel outside of Turkey, not every city is as friendly as Istanbul. I have only been here once, but would come back a second and third time, if life and money permits. And very few cities do I ever return to.

4—Valetta (Malta) in the heart of the Mediterranean, it is unique among all the islands. I been to many islands in the world, and the only other one that can compare to this island is Easter Island. The island has its caves and archaeological sites, which seem to be in the backyards in residential areas. The city is a great walled city, and plays a historic roll in the times of the Crusades, as well as WWII: it has more churches on it than Rome I believe. Called the Maltese, which it has three connecting, I also went to Gozo. But the city is a gem. My wife would love to come back here.

5—San Francisco (USA) it is where it all started in the 1960s, and I was there for a year, 1968-69. It was the city by the bay. With its Golden Gate Park, and its Golden Gate Bridge, and it was a time of music, and a freedom never duplicated since. It is the most quaint and unique City on any coast, of the world. And it, like Paris, has its landmarks to see. And smaller than New York City, it has a sense of bulkiness. The Ocean sweeps into your hands almost, and the turn of the 19th century remains in the city a bit. It is where all the musicians go to, come out of, remain. I lived here a year.

6—Lisbon (Portugal) it has it history, its great Castle on the hill, its iron tower, which I went to a half dozen times, Eiffel, made it, yes, the very one who made the tower in Paris. The city has its parks, and its monuments, and is liken to Malta, in the since, the city is almost on top of the Ocean. It was devastated by an earth quake a hundred years ago or so, and was a world trade port at one time. You can see its uniqueness in its architecture, like Havana, Cuba.

7—Kyoto (Japan) City of the Geisha, city in the middle of Japan, so it seems; and a unique city at that; it has its monuments, in the form of temples, and its historic section called Geon, which I walked down, and was treated very well by the folks in the guest houses. It has an old aqueduct and a great tower also in the city. When I think of Kyoto, I think always of the best city in Japan, not huge, but clean, with all the taste of Japan rolled up in one city.

8—Sevilla (Spain) this is the city of Hercules, where legend says he was born. And where legend says, Columbus is buried in its cathedral. Here is where there are bullfights, and a great night life, singing and playing guitars in the larger clubs. The food is great here, and the plazas are picturesque. It is a peaceful place, with a unique richness, freshness, and it has its canals in the city liken to Burges.

9—Burges (Belgium) The greatest medieval city in Europe, what more can I say, as my wife said when she says it: it looks like a fairytale city. Other than that I’m lost for words, but take a ride in a boat around its channels (like Venice).

10—Cusco (Peru) Peru in general is the Egypt of South America, but much friendlier than Cairo, for I’ve been in Egypt, and Cairo, and would never return. When I was in Egypt, and Cairo, I always felt guarded, or needed to be, in Peru, the folks love you there, and I really never feel the need to be over guarded. I was to Peru 9-times, to Cusco once, to the Mantaro Valley four times, to Lima, nine. I’m not sure where you start, to bring out the glory of my trips. It is the land of the Inca, and in the Mantaro Valley, the land of the Great Warriors, the Wanka. They have the coast, or ocean by Lima, and Cusco, has the Andes, and Machu Picchu, and world monument. But wherever you go in Peru, are monuments. To the north of Lima, is the famous and deadly Amazon, which I’ve been down. So you got a city in the mountains, called Cusco, surrounded by a world called Peru, a unique place, like Cusco.

2nd Place:

Venice, Italy (City on Water)

Havana, Cuba (City of Architecture)

Glastonbury, England (City of the Tor)

Stockbridge, Massachusetts (Norman Rockwell’s city)

Rome, Italy (Regal City of the World)

Athens, Greece (City of Thesus)

New Orleans, USA (The city of Night)

Augsburg, Germany (Old Roman Compound)

Beijing, China (City of the Forbidden City)

Buenos Aires (The city of Eva Peron)

Jaipur, India (the Pink city)

By Dennis Siluk Ed.D.

The Ten Best Bare Beaches in the World

2008-12-03T02:09:00.000-08:00

Below are 10 of the best beaches for baring all. All details are taken from Bare Beaches, which lists over 200 other popular spots for nude bathing around the world.

1. Leucate Plage, France

Mediterranean coast, north of Perpignan

This superb bare beach has 1 km of fine golden sand, the classic Mediterranean beach. The water is normally calm and the shore shelves gently into the sea making it popular with families. Three naturist resorts share the coastline but the beach is open to all and there’s plenty of space for first-time skinny-dippers and lifelong nudists alike.

Go north from Perpignan on the main N9 and turn right on to the D83, signposted Port Bacares. After 9 kms turn left on to the D627, drive through Port Leucate and the bare beach is on the right. Park on the road - easy public access between Aphrodite Village and Club Oasis, the naturist resorts.

2. Playa Es Pregons Gran, Balearic islands

Majorca south coast

This wonderful little bare bay has a perfect crescent of fine yellow sand, washed by a sea so transparent it looks more like the Caribbean. There are no beach bars so bring your picnic and drinks. It’s the jewel in the crown of the popular Es Trenc beach area.

The route to the beach is a pleasant 15 minute walk along the shore, heading north from the resort town of Colonia Sant Jordi. Start at the Hotel Marques Del Palmer, and it’s the third bay along. The fourth bay, if you walk further, also happens to be a bare beach, part of the much larger Es Trenc beach.

3. Haulover Beach, Florida USA

Sunny Isles, north Miami

Situated in the south of the ‘Sunshine State’, this bare sandy beach has a huge following of visitors from across the globe. With glorious weather for most of the year and the vibrant city of Miami on the doorstep, it’s not difficult to see why. The bare area is more than 800 yards long and has its own lifeguards and unobtrusive police patrols. Refreshments, sunbeds and umbrellas are available.

The beach is at Haulover Beach Miami-Dade county regional park, on Collins Avenue (A1A), just north of fashionable Bal Harbour. There is a large car park ($5) right by the beach.

4. Vera Playa, Spain

Costa Almeria

This is Spain’s capital of bare bathing. The long wide sandy beach is popular in summer and has a big choice of naturist accommodation. Beach bars, sunbeds, pedalos and yes, if you really want to try the naturist cliché, beach volleyball are all available. Almeria has the hottest and driest climate in the country, so the beach season is almost year-round. Most European nationalities park their bottoms here, giving it a cosmopolitan and friendly atmosphere.

Take the coast road north from Garrucha, through Puerto Rey, and Vera Playa is well signposted after a further 1.5 kms.

5. Banana Beach, Greece

Skiathos, near Koukounaries, on the south-west coast

Banana beach is the collective name for three lovely sandy bays well loved by nude bathers. Before you ask, the name refers to the fact the beaches are yellow and curved.

During peak season bare bathers mainly use Little Banana, one of the smaller coves, as clothed holidaymakers descend on the main beach. Little Banana is often called the best bare beach in Greece, although there is plenty of competition for the accolade. There is a bus terminus and car park at the end of the Koukounaries road, coming from Skiathos town. The footpath to Banana takes 15 mins through olive groves.

6. Valalta, Croatia

Istria, near Rovinj

If you feel the need for a truly naked de-stress, Valalta is everything you could wish for. It’s so good the nudist campsite here was voted the best in Croatia last year - among all sites, not just bare ones. With two miles of sand and rock beaches, including secluded coves, lined by olive trees and vineyards, this nude beach and village are well loved by bare beach connoisseurs.

The beach is on the Istrian peninsula, 60 miles south of Trieste and five miles from Rovinj.

7. Playa de Maspalomas, Canary islands

Near Playa del Ingles, southern Gran Canaria

Hundreds of acres of sand dunes, looking just like the Sahara, frame the beautiful beach between Maspalomas and the popular resort of Playa del Ingles. It’s 3 kms from one end to the other and over 1 km deep. The bare areas, like the swimsuited ones, have sunbeds and umbrellas for hire. For a quieter spot, walk into the vast expanse of dunes, but be careful not to get lost!

You can walk to the bare beach areas from either end, although the walk from Maspalomas town is slightly shorter.

8. Euronat, France

Atlantic coast, north-west of Bordeaux

The south-west coast of France is almost one vast nude beach, stretching over 100 miles from Biarritz to the Gironde. Among stiff competition, the nude resort beach of Euronat stands out for its clean golden sand, supervised swimming and friendly atmosphere. Thousands of happy families gather here, and the beach is open to both nudist campers and day visitors alike. Other highly regarded resort beaches heading south are Montalivet CHM, La Jenny and Arnaoutchot.

From the seaside town of Montalivet-les-Bains, drive north on the D102 coast road. After 3 kms the road turns sharply right inland. Park and walk on to the beach - the main bare area is to the right.

9. Plakias Beach, Greece

Plakias town, south-west Crete

A fabulous setting of cliffs, mountains and a huge sweep of golden sand make this beach a wonderful place for all-over tanning and fine snorkelling. The sea shelves gently, making it suitable for families, and there are showers available. Refreshments are brought to the beach in season, and umbrellas are available.

The nude area is the last section of the beach, to the left as you face the sea, and unsurprisingly it is often the most popular part of the whole bay.

10. Les Grottes Plage, France

Ile du Levant, Mediterranean

This gem of a beach on the magical island of Levant is reached by an easy coastal footpath 10 mins walk from the quayside. A small natural cove of white sand slides gently into the turquoise sea, providing excellent swimming and snorkelling. The easiest way to get here is by ferry from Le Lavandou, between St Tropez and Toulon.

Seventy years ago Ile du Levant was the birthplace of nude leisure in France. Today, there is a tiny resident community and lots of holiday accommodation. Minimal clothing is normally worn in the village of Heliopolis, but the rest can be enjoyed as nature intended.

Nick Mayhew-Smith

Venice left high and far from dry by flooding

2008-12-03T00:52:00.000-08:00

Venice could use a bailout. The city built on water has too much of it.
A tourist walks through an inundated square in Venice, which is suffering its worst flooding since 1986.

Residents and tourists waded through knee-deep water Tuesday as they navigated the city's narrow streets and alleys, and its historic St. Mark's Square was inundated. Boxes of tourist merchandise floated inside the flooded shops around the square and even the city's famed pigeons sought refuge on rooftops and windowsills.

One of the highest tides in its history brought Venice to a virtual halt, rekindling a debate over a plan to build moveable flood barriers in an effort to save the lagoon city from high tides.

City officials said the tide peaked at 61 inches (156 centimeters), well past the 40-inch (110-centimeter) flood mark Monday, as strong winds pushed the sea into the city.

Alarms went off at 6:37 a.m. to alert citizens, but many residents were taken by surprise because authorities had initially not forecast such a high water level.

In St. Mark's Square, one of the city's lowest points, tourists tried to stay dry by hopping on cafe tables and chairs sticking out of the water. The water was so high that someone rowed a small speedboat across the wide square.

"It was quite an extraordinary experience," said Michel Gorski, visiting from Brussels with his wife. "We got stuck in the hotel for half a day but we didn't suffer. We were sorry for the restaurants and stores around, but there was no panic and everyone worked really hard to clean up quickly."

Workers were unable to install the traditional raised wooden walkways used during flooding because the water rose so high the platforms would have floated away too.

"There are very few streets that are water-free," admitted city spokesman Enzo Bon.

In an ironic twist, the flooding also idled the city's water buses because their boarding platforms were underwater.

Bon had no reports of damage to the city's architectural jewels, and the Culture Ministry was monitoring the situation.

It was the fourth highest tide since 1872, when the city started keeping records. The last time Venice saw such high waters was in 1986, while the all-time record was 76 inches (194 centimeters) in 1966.

That flood forced 3,000 people to evacuate and damaged many historic buildings, but largely spared the city's art -- which had long ago been removed to upper floors because of frequent flooding by tides.

"In Venice, we know how to live with high water," said Bon. "Of course there are some problems, because today's was an exceptional event."

Giancarlo Galan, the conservative governor of the surrounding Veneto region, criticized Venice's center-left administration for failing to prepare for the flood and for allegedly stonewalling a long-planned system of barriers that would rise from the seabed to ease the effect of high tides.

The $5.5 billion project, called "Moses" after the Biblical figure who parted the Red Sea, has been under construction for years and is expected to be completed by 2011. The company building the barriers said, had the system been in place, the city would not have been flooded Monday.

Venice Mayor Massimo Cacciari insisted the city's experts had done a good job and had revised their forecasts well before the water came in. Cacciari, who has criticized the barriers, said the government-backed project would be completed.
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With low tide setting in and waters receding Monday afternoon, some tourists were charmed by the water wonderland.

"The hotel had to turn off the gas and the electricity, but they made us a nice candlelit cold lunch," said Yacob Laurent, a visitor from Paris. "They gave us boots and my wife and I went for a walk. It was a lot of fun."

www.cnn.com

Healthy Travel

2008-12-03T00:24:00.000-08:00

How can I protect my health when I travel?

If you have any food allergies, learn the names of those foods in the languages used in the countries you’ll be visiting. This way you’ll be better equipped to stay on the look out for them.

Find out what types of diseases are common to the area you’ll be visiting and take actions to prevent your exposure to those diseases.

Find out what types of vaccinations you will need to enter the country, there may also be medications you’ll need to take before, during and even after your trip. Get your vaccinations early in case you have a reaction and need some recovery time.

You should consider a dental appointment if you haven’t had a check up in a while.

Be careful what you eat and drink.

Carry complete health information with you on your trip.

www.alltraveltips.com

Frightfully fun city ghost tours!

2008-11-26T00:02:00.000-08:00

Fall is probably the best time of year to experience all things paranormal. Many of our favorite gay-friendly destinations have year-round ghost tours, and when you round up a group of friends, it can be a frightfully fun experience taking you back to the days when we sat around the campfire and told ghost stories at summer camp. Here is a sampling of the best ghost tours around the country. Happy haunting!

Baltimore Ghost Tours
Join a slew of costumed characters under the cover of night for a guided tour of many haunted pubs, shops, and residences. But don't stray too far from the group because you never know when you'll find yourself face to face with the unknown.

Chicago Hauntings Ghost Tours
Ursula Bielski's Chicago Ghost Tours are conducted aboard the city's only "Ghost Bus," visiting an array of authenticated haunted sites throughout the city. This is not just a driving tour where you'll ride for hours and simply look out the windows of the bus. Rather, they depart the bus several times throughout each tour at some of Chicago's most actively haunted sites, inviting guests to investigate a particular haunted Chicago location for themselves

Key West's Original Ghost Tour
The Original Ghost Tours of Key West provides nightly walking tours through the shadowy streets and lonely lanes of historic Old Town Key West -- Florida's second oldest city and home to a history of pirates, wreckers, smugglers, and a variety of colorful characters.

Fort Lauderdale Ghost Tour
Discover the hauntings, mystery and ghostly history of Fort Lauderdale's dark past on a lantern-led tour along the New River.

San Francisco Ghost Hunt
The San Francisco Ghost Hunt visits the most notorious historic haunted places. You hear thrilling ghost stories based on documented research, touch eerie haunted artifacts, frequently feel a fearful chill, get ghosts caught in cameras, and many other ways experience spirits at enchanting SF haunted mansions.

Austin Ghost Tours
The Austin Ghost Tours' Halloween 2008 Tour will explore the city's fascinating history through downtown's shadowed streets. Relive Austin's unforgettable history, legends, murders and true ghost stories with your knowledgeable and entertaining guide.

Posted by DJ Scotty Quick

Top Ten European Cities

2008-11-22T12:47:00.000-08:00

Every European city has a history and tradition of its own that attracts the tourists. This article takes a look at the top-ten European cities.
Top Ten European Cities
Europe is one of the most beautiful continents in the world. Many of the European countries are rich in tradition and culture. A traveler vacationing in any of the European cities would have a bewildering array of cultures and scenic beauty. Remember, many of the European countries are famous for their castles and palaces. Greece and Rome have a wide array of fascinating ancient historical ruins and legends that narrates the rituals and traditions of ancient times. Given below are the top-ten must-visit European cities.

Top Ten European Cities

1. Rome: Rome, the capital city of Italy is a city which has a rich culture and tradition. The city boasts of festivals such as White Night Festival that is worth seeing. Rome was the capital of the ancient Romans. There are many historical places of interest that would be a great experience to the visitors. Roman Coliseum, Palatine Hill, Pantheon and so on are a few historical places worth visiting. There are many museums and art galleries that would interest any art lover. Vatican city is another most sought out destination in Rome. One can enjoy the marvelous and mind-blowing artworks of Michelangelo at St. Peter’s Basilica and Sistine Chapel.

2. Athens: Athens is one of the ancient cities of Europe. It is the capital of Greece. Acropolis of Athens is one of the places of tourist attraction. Athens is the longest city in Europe and it has been inhabited for over 3000 years. Tower of the Winds, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Arch of Hadrian and Prynx are the main centers of tourist attraction.
3. Paris: Paris is the capital of France and is known as the "fashion" capital of the world. It is one of the most romantic cities of world. A trip to Paris would not be complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Scaling this wonderful tower would give a breathtaking view of the entire City of Paris. Paris has the largest art museum in the world, Louvre, that houses over 35,000 pieces of art. This museum is situated on the banks of River Seine. This city has a colorful nightlife. Disney Land, Arc de Triomphe, Opera Garnier, Jardin des Tuileries and Champs-Elysees are a few places that are worthy of a visit.
4. Vienna: Vienna is the capital of Austria and also one of the nine Austrian states. This city houses more than hundred theaters and museums that are famous for their music, opera, ballet and artifacts. Vienna is one of the European cities, which is rich in cultural history. This city was founded in 500 BC and was a part of the Roman Empire. Vienna is a blend of traditional and modern European culture. Anchor Clock, Belvedere Palace, Burgtheater, Danube Tower and Danube Island are some of the places that attracts tourists every year.
5. Salzburg: Salzburg is the fourth largest city of Austria. This city is situated on the banks of the river Salzach. Renowned for its beauty, the "Old Town" of Salzburg is listed as the World Heritage by UNESCO because of its world-famous baroque architecture. One of the notable landmarks of Salzburg is the setting of the musical film "The Sound of Music". Hohensalzburg Fortress, Residence of Mozart, St. Petersfriedhof, Helbrunn, Festival Hall and Rupertinum are some of the interesting and must-visit places.
6. Barcelona: Barcelona is quite a lively city of Spain. This Spanish city has a unique blend of traditional and modern art, traditional and culture. Summer music festivals and flamenco shows are the major attractions in Barcelona. There are many restaurants and cafeterias that cater traditional Catalan cuisine, which is relished by the tourists. There are museums and galleries that house the works of Picasso. Some of the main tourist attraction points are La Rambla, Port Vell, La Barceloneta and Port Olympic and Barri Gotic.
7. Berlin: Berlin is the capital of Germany. Berlin is the treasure trove of culture and ancient tradition, of art and architecture. It has many things to offer to travelers. Nightlife in Berlin is mind-blowing. Berlin has many malls and shops that cater to the needs of the shopaholics. One of the oldest and internationally reputed zoological gardens, Zoologischer Garten, is located in Berlin. The places of interest include Pergamon Museum, Reichstag, the Berlin Wall, and Tiergarten. Berlin city is an intriguing combination of ancient historical monuments and modern steel and glass buildings.
8. Helsinki: Helsinki, the capital of Finland was founded in 1550 by the King Gustav Vasa. Today, Helsinki is considered one of the fastest growing cities in Northern Europe. Recently, Helsinki was named as one of the nine European Cities of Culture. In the recent years, Helsinki has become one of the favorite tourist destinations. This city houses some of the popular international restaurants and caters various kinds of delicacies including Russian dishes. Helsinki Card, Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma and churches are a few place of interest. If you happen to be in Helsinki during the last week of August, make sure you don't miss any of the events of the famous Helsinki Festival.
9. Reykjavik: Reykjavik, the capital and the largest city of Iceland. Reykjavik means "steamy bay". This is one of the upcoming tourist destinations and the main attraction is the geothermal pools. Places of tourist attraction include Mt. Keilir, Glymur, Hengill and so on. Reykjavik is one of the most expensive European cities to visit. There are parks, cafes and museums here which attract the tourists. National Museum has many artifacts of the Icelandic and the Norse culture. Austurstraeti and Hafnarstraeti are the two shopping destinations to buy souvenirs and handicrafts.
10. Edinburgh: Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and is also its second-largest city. Nightlife is lively in Edinburgh because it has number of trendy pubs, restaurants and bars. Edinburgh castle is the one of the major tourist attractions. Other places of visit include Royal Botanical Garden, Museum of Scotland, National Gallery of Scotland and Royal Yacht Britannia. If you are a first-time visitor or are short of time, then it is advisable to catch a bus that goes around the city.

Every European city of destination that you have chosen to visit would have a wide array of attractions, shopping centers, native cuisine and entertainment to cater for the tourists.

By Maya Pillai

Singapore: 10 Things to Do in 24 Hours

2008-11-20T08:31:00.000-08:00

Singaporeans moan that besides shopping, dining and the movies, there's not a lot you can do here. Ignore them. The must-see list for the one-day visitor to Singapore, especially the first-timer, is absorbingly long. There is very little chance you'll get bored. Most tourists tend to gravitate first towards the famed retail stretch of Orchard Road. Fine, get your fix of bold-faced names like Louis Vuitton, Chanel and every other couture label under the sun. When you've gotten that out of your system, dump your purchases back at the hotel and head out into the 'burbs where the real charm of Singapore lies. We're here to guide you to the top 10 places where tourists don't normally go; in short, the places where Singaporeans in the know live and play.

1. Singapore Botanic Gardens

So, you've arrived. It's early and nothing really opens for business until around 11 a.m., so how are you going to kill time? Slip on the trainers and head out to the Botanic Gardens (open 5 a.m. to midnight). At this time of the day, downtown Singapore's last remaining green lung is a cool, bucolic retreat filled with joggers, dogs and tai-chi practitioners. Wander through the swaths of virgin rainforest (the main boardwalk through it is entered from Upper Palm Valley Road) and then take in the National Orchid Garden's many-colored collection of 1,000 orchid species and 2,000 hybrids. When you're done, drop into the food court near Tanglin Gate for a traditional local breakfast of soft-boiled eggs, coffee and toast slathered with coconut jam.

2. Artwork at the Ritz-Carlton

It may seem a little strange to head to a hotel to look at artwork, but the Ritz-Carlton is no ordinary hotel. The massive three-ton Frank Stella installation at the entrance and the pair of Dale Chihuly crystal glass sculptures that anchor both wings of the building kick off one of Southeast Asia's finest (and under the radar) collections of modern and contemporary art. The majority of the pieces were specially commissioned for the public spaces and guest suites. The treasures on view include Andy Warhol and David Hockney's exuberant colors, Rainer Gross's geometric compositions, Henry Moore's restrained monochromatics and the lush botanicals of Robert Zakanitch. It's all free to view, and you even get an iPod-guided tour.

3. Chinatown Heritage Centre

Let the other tourist hordes charge over to the newly minted Peranakan Museum or the gloomy Asian Civilisations Museum. If you do only one cultural thing during your 24-hour Singapore layover, it must be a tour of the unheralded Chinatown Heritage Centre, where entire sets of bedrooms, kitchens and street scenes from the late-19th century and early-20th century have been faithfully recreated. It's an authentic slice of Singapore's history that's made all the more fascinating by the gleaming skyscrapers just a few blocks away. And if you must, pick up a kitschy souvenir from the gift shop on your way out.

4. Plastic Surgery

In case you missed the memo, the place for plastic surgery is Asia. While many people head to Bangkok and Seoul for assorted nips and tucks, the locals make a beeline for the ultra-swish, Richard Meier–designed Camden Medical Centre. You may not have time for a full makeover, but squeeze in a spot of Botox or a non-surgical facelift with local celebrity surgeon Woffles Wu. And then adjourn downstairs for snapper pie and Pavlova at Whitebait & Kale.

5. Electronics for Cheap

Tokyo may have the latest in electronic gadgets, but Singapore has the widest range, and luckily for the time-pressed shopper, they're all clustered in two massive multistory emporia. Handicams, portable DVD players, mobile phones, hi-tech cameras, MP3 players and laptops in just about every imaginable configuration are up for grabs at Funan Digitalife Mall and Sim Lim Square. The prices are usually about 10% to 20% cheaper than at other commercial outlets. At Sim Lim Square especially, good deals can be had with some serious haggling, and many retailers will knock off a few extra dollars if you pay in cash.

6. Haji Lane

This tiny lane, hidden away in the heart of the Muslim quarter, is a fashionista's paradise. With very little fanfare, the collection of narrow shop-houses have, in less than a year, been transformed into an aggressively hip retail stretch recalling Le Marais in Paris or New York's Meatpacking District. Know It Nothing is a stylish industrial space that stocks beautifully tailored dress shirts stitched with silver skull buttons by Japanese label Garni. Next, pop into Pluck for its shabby chic collection of Austin Powers–inspired cushion covers and a cute ice-cream parlor. A few doors down, Salad boasts a range of home accessories like laser-cut table mats and Hong Kong–based Carrie Chau's quirky postcards. If you're feeling peckish, have an authentic Middle Eastern lunch around the corner at Cafe le Caire.

7. The Singapore Flyer

The 165-meter-high Flyer is Singapore's answer to the London Eye. For the moment, it is the world's largest observation wheel (that title will go to Beijing when its version opens in 2009). Despite much fanfare and hype, the locals have never really taken to the Flyer, grousing that it's too far from anywhere (it's not) and S$29.50 is a lot of money to pay for a 30-minute ride. Lucky you, since this means you'll almost never have to wait in line. The best time to hitch a ride is at dusk when the entire row of downtown skyscrapers is softly lit. Back on the ground, head for a dinner of chili crabs at Seafood Paradise.

8. The White Rabbit

Back in the '50s, Dempsey Hill was home to the British Army. These days, the former barracks, set amidst lush jungle, have been transformed into a fine collection of restaurants, bars, art galleries, epiceries and spas. Recently, the long abandoned garrison church was reopened as the White Rabbit, a restaurant and bar serving up Euro comfort food. After extensive renovations, its lofty interiors are now a mood-lit bolt-hole that heaves with tout le monde. When people aren't busy air-kissing and waving to one another across the crowded dining space, they're tucking into chef Daniel Sia's cleverly re-imagined classics, like macaroni and cheese drizzled with truffle sauce and a deconstructed Black Forest cake. After dinner, head up the hill for a chilled mojito at Margarita's.

9. Geylang

Once upon a time, Bugis Street was Singapore's premier red light district (and forever immortalized in Peter Bogdanovich's Saint Jack), but the crown has long since passed to Geylang, an atmospheric quarter on Singapore's east coast that bristles with great period architecture, leggy street walkers and some of the best local food on the island. On offer is a greedy grab of Peranakan, Indian, Malay and regional Chinese standards including the coconut rice and curry chicken at Bali Nasi Lemak, spicy noodles with roast pork and prawns at Kuching Kolo Mee and the Hakka favourite of rice, vegetables, tofu and peanuts in a tea-based broth at Lei Cha Fan.

10. Zouk

Despite its prim, straight-laced reputation, Singapore's nightlife is actually quite racy, though compared to Barcelona or New York, the party ends early (around 3 a.m.). After nearly two decades, Zouk is still the throbbing heart of the action. The pulsating institution is a strobe-lit, rambling warren of dance floors, figure-hugging outfits, swagger and seasoned moves. For many of the pretty young hipsters here, it's a rite of passage. If it isn't enough to satisfy your urge to groove, drop into the mammoth Ministry of Sound for a quick shimmy.

www.time.com

Dutch city turns church into a luxury experience

2008-11-20T08:10:00.000-08:00

It has been a while since I've enjoyed going to church so much.
The Cathedral of Saint Servatius is still a major attraction for pilgrims.

The Cathedral of Saint Servatius is still a major attraction for pilgrims.

As a lapsed Catholic I tend to keep my church attendances to Christmas and, if I'm feeling quite a lot of guilt, Easter.

However, I would happily go to "church" at Maastricht's Kruisherenhotel on a daily basis.

A former gothic church and monastery dating from the 15th century, the buildings have been beautifully renovated to welcome disciples of a new kind of religion -- luxury.

Boasting 60 rooms, dazzling but sympathetic light installations and a mezzanine restaurant and accompanying womb-like wine bar in the church's nave, it's easy to be quickly converted.

The food is also pretty good; my fish and scallops starter followed by venison the perfect communion for a late autumn evening.

The Kruisherenhotel, though, is only one of Maastricht's many gems.

The southern Netherlands city of 120,000 people does not feature prominently on many lists of must-visit places, but it should.

An easy train journey from Brussels and Amsterdam and a mid-distance journey from London, Paris and several German stations, Maastricht is laden with good restaurants (there are four Michelin-starred eateries), shopping, history, public art and surrounded by pretty villages with woodland walking paths.

The city center, like a miniature Paris, is split in two by the Maas river. Roman history and a Latin Quarter featuring boutiques and art galleries dominate the left bank, while on the right the Bonnefanten -- a contemporary art museum -- and hip retro design shops hold forth.

The religious theme continues on the left bank at Selexyz Dominicanen -- yet another church that has been converted, this time into a fabulous English- and Dutch-language book store.

Originally built in the 13th century by the Dominican order, its most recent use before 2007's spectacular renovation was as an indoor bike pound.

It now features a three-story black steel bookstack in the high nave, together with a noisy cafe in the choir. If it sounds like desecration, you couldn't be more wrong. It is a book and architecture lover's heaven on Earth.

As proud locals tell my wife and me, there are plenty of empty churches in the area that could do with a similar makeover.

Book browsing is hungry and thirsty work, but there are plenty of options for a prolonged stop: pull up a chair at one of the many cafes that surround the city's squares or head for the Mosae Gusto underground food hall.

Typically food halls give me the willies; bad food cooked hours earlier, reheated and served up for the masses.

The Mosae Gusto is the complete opposite. It gathers high-end outlets together, giving you the chance to take away delicious food or eat in and watch your meal being prepared in the open kitchens.

If it's more traditional French-influenced food with a tasty flourish you are after, then head for the welcoming La Courage on the Rechtstraat, one of the city's oldest streets.

Refueled and clearly with a blessed life to give thanks for, we stop off at a church that is still used for its original purpose.

The imposing Cathedral of Saint Servatius, originally founded in the 6th century, is the oldest church in The Netherlands, though it was substantially rebuilt and enlarged between the 11th and 15th centuries.

Saint Servatius, responsible for spreading Catholicism to the Low Countries and a diplomat in the fourth century, is buried in the crypt and his relics (i.e. bits of his bone fragment) spookily feature in the basilica's treasury.

In times of distress, his relics were carried around the town -- a procession which is now carried out every seven years.

The cathedral draws many pilgrims, with Pope John Paul II once a visitor in 1984.

Having given our praise we make a quick stop at Maastricht's ceramic museum, where the brilliant World Press photo exhibition is in residence.

The museum, a stone's throw from the river, is surrounded by tasteful inner-city apartments and close to the striking Bonnefanten, where art works by modern and old masters find a comfortable home together.

Unfortunately, it's a bit too early for us to be eating again, so we return to our hotel and the countryside around the village of Houthem-St.Gerlach -- a 10-minute train ride outside Maastricht.

Local residents are out running and cycling, while others walk their dogs to the nearest pub; everyone says hello.

The area is dotted with caves, some of which were once inhabited and a few can be toured.

Across the road from our hotel, Vue de Montagne, is the entrance to La Caverne de Geulhem -- a series of caves it uses as a restaurant and to host functions for as many as 400 people.

In a way, the caves are a metaphor for Maastricht; its delights may have been a secret for some time, but it's a pilgrimage well worth making.

www.cnn.com

Travelling With a Laptop

2008-11-20T07:51:00.000-08:00

Laptops can be a great piece of equipment to have with you on the road – managing all your photos, staying in contact with friends and family via email or IM, using translation software, blogging, or perhaps to keep up with the occasional bit of work!

Before you start your trip with a laptop, there are a number of issues you need to consider:

Hardware
There are 9 different power plugs in use around the globe, so a multi power plug adaptor is a necessity.

There are 39 different telephone jacks in use worldwide. You must have a telephone adapter to handle each of the phone jacks where you plan to travel.

It may make sense to do a bit of research before hand to see what power plugs and telephone jacks are in use in the countries on your trip. If you’re booking accommodation before you go make sure you check with the hotel for a room what wireless or telephone faciliaties they have. Perhaps they have an Internet room for those traveling with laptops.

Software
Modems from one region don’t necessarily recognize dial tones from other regions. To ensure you can access the web from any region, it’s a good idea to learn how to set your modem options so you can dial manually.

Security
The physical security of your laptop is always an issue, wherever you are.

When traveling, keep your laptop in sight at all times. Don’t put your laptop in with your other luggage, as baggage handlers certainly won’t be treating your laptop as a fragile item! Take it as hand luggage on your flight or any bus journeys and try not to store it in the overhead storage area where it could get bashed around by someone else.

Letting your laptop go through the x-ray equipment will not harm your laptop. Metal detectors, however, can cause damage, so request politely that Security/Customs do a hand check rather than use a metal detector.

Check your password and log-off procedures for any sensitive websites before you leave home. When you finish sending email or checking bank account details on your trip be sure that your account is closed so others can’t access your details.

Documentation
It’s important when returning back home that you have all the original receipts or correct Customs documentation. As the onus is on you to prove that you did not purchase your laptop whilst traveling, these documents will show that the laptop you have is the one you left the country with. If you can’t prove this point you may have to pay duty and/or taxes on your own laptop!

www.hostelbookers.com

Top Ten Spiritual Places

2008-11-20T07:15:00.000-08:00

No Vatican, no Mecca, no Jerusalem – there’s not even anywhere in Europe! What sort of a list of spiritual places is this? As ever, by no means does this claim to be a definitive list, just a selection of ten favorite spiritual places and holy sites chosen from around the HostelBookers office.

Not all our choices are, strictly speaking, religious, while some aren’t even manmade. But, whether they’re grand mosques or merely a humble rock, all resonate with that oddly mystical feeling that comes from the weight of time sitting heavily upon them.

The Umayyad Mosque; Damascus, Syria

Construction of the remarkable Umayyad Mosque (or Grand Mosque) took place over nine years from 706-715AD. Amongst the most dazzling religious structures anywhere in the world, it’s also one of the largest, with the outer walls stretching a staggering 100m by 157m.

Varanasi – the Ganges; Varanasi, India

As well as being a major Hindu pilgrimage site, Varanasi is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world. Throughout the year, millions of pilgrims bathe in the holy waters of the River Ganges, having been ushered down through the decaying houses by stone ‘ghats’ (steps). A genuinely special place.

Borobudur; Yogyakarta, Indonesia

The vast temple of Borobudur covers an area of some 200 square meters, and consists of a total of over 1.5 million building blocks (and no mortar to hold them together!) Even now, looking upon this vast monument to human endeavor, the effect is little short of awe-inspiring.

Emei Shan; Southern Sichuan, China

The climb up Buddhist holy mountain Emei Shan takes you through whispering forests, past cascading waterfalls, and through a series of temples. When you finally emerge onto a giant pagoda and a sea of clouds, it’s impossible not to be struck by the mystical aura that surrounds the place.

Abu Simbel; Aswan, Egypt

Even amongst Egypt’s wealth of spiritual sites, Abu Simbel stands out. With its four huge statues of Ramses II, and shafts painstakingly designed to shine sunlight deep into the subterranean temple, nothing can adequately prepare you for the impact of its scale and grandiose vision.

Ayer’s Rock (Uluru); Alice Springs, Australia

Slap-bang in the middle of the country, and surrounded by mile after mile of next-to-nothingness, an undeniably spiritual feel swirls around Ayer’s Rock (or Uluru). The most incredible thing about it, though, is the way it changes color throughout the day, reaching a magical climax at sunset.

Adashino Nembutsuji; Kyoto, Japan

Adashino Nembutsuji is one of the more atmospheric of Japan’s many holy places. Reached through a swaying forest of bamboo, a temple now stands on the site where, in the 11th century, the poor of Kyoto used to leave their dead. Few places are blessed with such a peculiar sense of intimacy.

Lake Titicaca; Copacabana, Bolivia

If it were just for its scenery alone, Lake Titicaca would still be magnificent. But as a site of vital religious importance to the Incas – whose impressive ruins dot the shoreline and crown its islands, Isla del Sol and Isla de la Luna – it acquires an almost otherworldly beauty.

Angkor Wat; Siem Riep, Cambodia

In spite of its overcrowding in places, there’s nowhere quite like Angkor Wat. Thought to be the biggest religious structure in the world, it stands at the heart of a 400km Khmer complex, and possesses a truly transcendental quality.

Nemrut Dagi; Gazantiep, Turkey

High up in the snow-capped mountains, far-flung, windswept and blessed with staggering views, is Nemrut Dagi. The tomb/temple of the megalomaniacal King Antiochus, enormous crumbling heads adorn the world’s largest manmade mound, and lend the whole site its lingering whiff of madness.

www.hostelbookers.com

JAKARTA

2008-11-19T02:05:00.000-08:00

Jakarta, the capital city of the Republic of Indonesia, is a special territory enjoying the status of a province, consisting of Greater Jakarta, covering an area of 637.44 square km. Located on the northern coast of West Java, it is the center of government, commerce and industry and as such has an extensive communications network with the rest of the country and the outside world. As Indonesia's main gateway, the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport serves a growing number of international airlines and domestic flights. Jakarta is a city of contrasts; the traditional and the modern, the rich and the poor, the sacral and the worldly, often stand side by side in this bustling metropolis. Even its population, gathered from all those diverse ethnic and cultural groups which compose Indonesia, are constantly juxtaposed as an ever- present reminder of the national motto; Unity in Diversity.

Finding its origin in the small early 16th century harbor town of Sunda Kelapa, Jakarta's founding is thought to have taken place on June 22, 1527, when it was re-named Jayakarta, meaning

Glorious Victory by the conquering Prince Fatahillah from neighboring Cirebon. The Dutch East Indies Company which captured the town and destroyed it in 1619, changed its name into Batavia and made it the center for the expansion of their power in the East Indies. Shortly after the outbreak of World War II, Batavia fell into the hands of the invading Japanese forces who changed the name of the city into Jakarta as a gesture aimed at winning the sympathy of the Indonesians.

The name was retained after Indonesia achieved national independence after the war's end.

The ethnic Jakartan called "Orang Betawi" speaks Betawi Malay, spoken as well in the surrounding towns such as Bekasi and Tangerang. This language has two variations: the conventional Betawi Malay and the modern Jakarta Malay. While the first is spoken by the elder people, born and bred in Jakarta, the second is spoken by the younger generation and migrants.

Jakarta's architecture reflects to a large extent the influx of outside influences which came and has remained in this vital seaport city. The Taman Fatahillah Restoration Project, begun in the early 1970s has restored one of the oldest sections of Jakarta also known as Old Batavia to approximately its original state.

The old Portuguese Church and warehouse have been rehabilitated into living museums. The old Supreme Court building is now a museum of fine arts which also houses part of the excellent Chinese porcelain collection of former Vice President Adam Malik. The old Town Hall has become the Jakarta Museum, displaying such rare items as Indonesia's old historical documents and Dutch period furniture.

Its tower clock was once returned to England to be repaired under its lifetime guarantee, which up to now has already lasted hundreds of years.

One of the most interesting tourist attractions is the "Beautiful Indonesia in Miniature Park" popularly called "Taman Mini". Built to portray the variety of cultures found within the many islands contained in the Republic of Indonesia, this open-air museum comprises the many architectural forms of arts and traditions of all 27 provinces. It is proof of the country's motto of Unity in Diversity as well as Freedom of Religion depicted in the houses of worship built on the grounds.

Jakarta has preserved its past and is developing for the future. Skyscrapers in the center of the city are part of a new look.

Modern luxury hotels today cater to the discriminating visitors. Transport within the city is plentiful. It should be noted that museums are open daily from 8.00 a.m. (except Mondays) till 2.00 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. On Fridays closing hour is 11.00 a.m. and on Saturdays at 1.00 p.m.
PLACES OF INTEREST

The National Monument

The National Monument, or "Monas" as it is popularly called, is one of the monuments built during the Sukarno era of fierce nationalism. It stands for the people's determination to achieve freedom and the crowning of their efforts in the Proclamation of Independence in August 1945. The 137-meter tall marble obelisk is topped with a flame coated with 35 kg. of gold. The base houses a historical museum and a hall for meditations. The monument is open to the public and upon request the lift can carry visitors to the top which offers a bird's eye view on the city and the sea.

Central Museum

Established in 1778 by U.M.C. Rademacher under the auspices of the Batavia Association of Arts and Sciences, it offers historical, prehistorical, archaeological and ethnographic aspects of Indonesia through its extensive collection of artifacts and relics which date as far back as to the Stone Age. It has one of the most complete collections of bronzes and ceramics dating back to the Han, Tang and Ming Dynasties. The Museum has one of the finest numismatic collections in the world, including cloth and money which was used on several islands until recently. The religious art section is filled with statuary and sculpture salvaged from sites of Hindu, Buddhist and Islamic edifices. Its collection of cultural instruments, household utensils, arts and crafts provide an introduction to the life of the various ethnic groups which populate Indonesia. This museum is popularly known as Gedung Gajah or "Elephant Building" because of the stone elephant offered by King Chulalongkorn of Thailand in 187 1, placed on the front lawn of the building.

Indonesia in Miniature Park

An extensive park to get a glimpse of the diverseness of the Indonesian archipelago, it represents Indonesia's 27 provinces and their outstanding characteristics, reflected most strikingly in the exact regional architecture of the province. It has its own orchid garden in which hundreds of Indonesian orchid varieties are grown. There is also a bird park with a walk-in aviary, a fauna museum and recreational grounds with a swimming pool and restaurants.

Of special interest here at Taman Mini is the Museum Indonesia. A richly decorated building in Balinese architecture, it houses contemporary arts, crafts and traditional costumes from the different regions of the country.

Open from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. daily.

"Theater Imax Keong Emas" (Golden Snail Theater)

Located in the Taman Mini is the Imax theater which presents "Beautiful Indonesia" on a gigantic screen using the latest Imax system.

Open from 11.00 am - 5.00 pm.

Jaya Ancol Dreamland

This is Jakarta's largest and most popular recreation park. It is built on reclaimed beach land at the Bay of Jakarta, having, sea and freshwater aquariums, swimming pools, an artificial lagoon for fishing, boating, bowling, an assortment of nightclubs, restaurants, a steam-bath and massage parlors.

Daily shows are held at the Aquarium where dolphins and sea lions perform. The Ancol complex includes a Marina, Dunia Fantasi (Fantasy Land), a golf course, hotels and a drive-in theater. The "Pasar Seni" or art market has a varied collection of Indonesian handicraft, paintings and souvenirs on sale.

At a nearby open-air theater art performances are held using the local dialect.

Fantasy Land

A recent addition to Jakarta's growing recreation facilities is the Fantasy Land, a 9.5 hectares (23.75 acres) entertainment park located inside the Ancol Dreamland. Planned to eventually become a part of a 200-hectares (500-acres) park designed to usher the visitors into the fascinating world of modern science and technology, the present facility takes them on an imaginative tour of Old Jakarta, Africa, America, Indonesia, Europe, Asia and the Palace of Dolls. Each of the areas is designed to give the visitor a feel of the region he is visiting through features and architecture of the area at a certain period of its history and by the use of animated puppets in the Palace of Dolls.

The park also offers a number of restaurants and souvenir shops.

The Marina Jaya Ancol

This is a special port for yachts, motor and sail boats, the port of departure for Pulau Seribu and the scattered islands in the Bay of Jakarta. This is also the place for marine recreation and sports where each facility is amply provided; water cycles, canoes, sail boats, fishing gear and many others. Stalls along the beach serve drinks and snacks while tents are available for sunbathers and sea lovers.

Jalan Surabaya

This street is located in one of the city's better residential areas known for its flea market. Stalls offer a wide range of goods, some of them antiquities, including ornate lamps, porcelain, brass-ware, handicrafts, Bargaining is necessary, including the skill to distinguish authenticity from imitations.

Jakarta Museum

Completed in 1627, the building initially served as the Dutch East Indies Company's Town Hall. Additions and renovations including a stone gate, offices and renovations were added between 1705 and 1715. The known Indonesian hero, Diponegoro, was said to have been imprisoned in its dungeon before his exile to South Sulawesi.

The building was used as military barracks and offices when the Jakarta City Administration decided in the early 1970s to make it the focus of a restoration plan of old Batavia. Now a museum, it provides the historical background of Jakarta through displays of old maps and antiquities including furniture and porcelain used by the Dutch rulers of Batavia, plus a 16th century Portuguese cannon which stand across the cobblestone square.

Sunda Kelapa

Sunda Kelapa, better known as Pasar Ikan (meaning fish market) is located at the mouth of the Ciliwung river. It was formerly the harbor town of Sunda Kelapa where the Portuguese traded with the Hindu Kingdom of Pajajaran in the early 16th century.

The fish catch of the day was auctioned in the early morning at the old fish market. The street leading to it was lined with shops selling all sorts of shells, dehydrated turtles, lobsters and mostly everything the seafarer might need.

Dutch domination of Jakarta and the rest of Indonesia began from this area, whereas the remnants of Kasteel Batavia, an old fort and trading post of the Dutch East Indies Company can still be seen now. Sunda Kelapa is at present a fisherman's wharf and an interisland port. Tall masted Bugis schooners from South Sulawesi anchoring there offer a picturesque scene. They belong to one of the last-fleets of sail boats in the world and still ply the seas between the islands, as they did centuries ago, carrying merchandise.

T.I.M. Art Center

The focal point of cultural activities in Jakarta is the Jakarta Art Center, known as Taman Ismail Marzuki or TIM in short. It is said to be the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia and consists of exhibition halls, theaters, an academy of arts, an archives building and a planetarium. A monthly programme of events, available at hotel counters, includes exhibitions, plays, musical and poetry recitals, dance performances, folk art and drama from the various regions of Indonesia.

Pulau Seribu

This group of islands in the Jakarta Bay offers a haven away from the bustle of city life. There are golden beaches fringed with coconut palms. The surrounding waters are a paradise for skin divers. They are filled with a myriad of tropical fish which live among the multicolored corals. The islands can be reached from Tanjung Priok or Pasar Ikan (Sunda Kelapa) by ferry or by chartered boat. Some of the islands in this group developed for tourism are Pulau Bidadari, Pulau Ayer, Pulau Laki and Pulau Putri. Pulau Tanjung near Putri has an airstrip. There are cabins for hire, having fresh water on Pulau Air and Pulau Bidadari only. The Pulau Putri Paradise Co. has developed Pulau Putri, Pulau Melintang, Pulau Petondan and Pulau Papa Theo as a holiday resort with cottages, restaurants, diving and sailing facilities.

www.etm.pdx.edu

Australia hopes Kidman film spurs tourism

2008-11-19T01:41:00.001-08:00

The film camera sweeps across the landscape, taking in flat plains, gushing waterfalls and a dusty country town. The color is brilliant, the emptiness palpable, and the soundtrack soars dramatically as warplanes bomb a city.
Various tour operators have begun offering tours of the Kimberley region in connection with the movie.
This is "Australia," the new movie by award-winning director Baz Luhrmann. The World War II-era romantic epic, which opens later this month, has already been hailed for its cinematography and its pairing of Australian film stars Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman.

But tourism promoters claim the real star of the movie is the country itself.

Tourism Australia, the national tourism board, has launched a $26 million international advertising campaign based on the movie, highlighting the wilderness of Western Australia state and encouraging tourists to refresh themselves by getting away from bustling cities and their busy daily lives.

"We knew that this huge film would create a wave of publicity that would put the country in the spotlight around the globe," said Geoff Buckley, managing director of Tourism Australia. "And we found that the film's story had a remarkable resonance for what we do marketing the country as a travel destination."

The movie premieres Tuesday in Sydney -- where the stars will attend -- as well as Darwin, Bowen and Kununurra. It opens internationally on November 26.

The film follows the story of a noblewoman on a cattle drive in Australia during World War II. The movie was filmed largely in rugged Western Australia, notably in and around the small town of Kununurra, a three-hour flight north of Perth, and in the California-sized Kimberley wilderness region.

If you go ...

By air: Travel to Australia is 13 hours from Los Angeles to Sydney, longer for travelers coming from New York or those traveling beyond Sydney to Western Australia. Lowest round-trip fares showing up on Kayak.com from LAX to Sydney average $1,300, but the Qantas.com site lists some pre-holiday flights at $810. Qantas is also introducing an "Aussie AirPass" for $1,200 that covers round-trip fare from Los Angeles, San Francisco or Honolulu, plus three domestic Australian flights including Darwin, Sydney and Kimberley.

Currency: The Australian dollar has declined in value against the U.S. dollar nearly 50 percent since July. In early summer, the two currencies were nearly equivalent, but now one U.S. dollar is worth more than $1.50 in Australian money.

Other film sites include working cattle stations at El Questro and Home Valley, the sandstone escarpments of the Cockburn Range and the striped mounds of the Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The movie's World War II scenes were mostly filmed in the northwest city of Darwin, where Japanese raids in 1942 and 1943 killed more than 900 people. Visitors to real-life Darwin can see a war memorial related to that attack as well as Stokes Hill Wharf, which provided the backdrop for some of the harbor scenes.

Other movie scenes set in Darwin were shot in Bowen, Queensland, a beach town north of the Whitsunday Islands. The real-life Strickland House at Vaucluse on Sydney Harbour, a historic 1850s villa and garden estate, served as the location for filming the movie's "Darwin Government House."

Various tour operators have begun offering tours of the Kimberley region in connection with the movie, and the state of Western Australia has begun its own $1.4 million tourism campaign of cinema, print, online advertisements and in-flight television.

"We want to make sure that moviegoers who are inspired to visit the region know that it's actually WA's stunning landscapes and outback adventure they're longing for," state tourism minister Liz Constable said in a statement last week.

The Northern Territory, where Darwin is situated, has also launched a $393,000 tourism campaign in the wake of the movie, touting the territory as "the real outback."

Northern Territory Chief Minister Paul Hnderson said the movie "really is going to put us on the map."

The national tourism campaign, dubbed "Come Walkabout," includes two commercials directed by Luhrmann, an Australian. The commercials, broadcast in 23 countries, feature busy professionals who are visited by a young Aboriginal child who sprinkles red dust into their hands.

"Sometimes, we have to get lost to find ourselves," the child whispers. "Sometimes, we gotta go walkabout." The overworked businessperson is then transported to a moonlit picnic under a baobab tree, or a refreshing swim in a billabong.

The ethereal campaign was criticized by erstwhile Australian celebrity Paul Hogan, of "Crocodile Dundee" fame. Decades ago, he starred in the "Throw Another Shrimp on the Barbie" tourism ads, which Hogan said highlighted the hospitality and friendliness that Australians are known for.

"If I go to your house for a visit and I want to come back, it's because I enjoyed your company, not your furniture," he told reporters recently. He complained that the new campaign ignored real Australians to instead focus on impersonal nature.

But if the campaign works, it wouldn't be the first time that a movie spurred tourism. Annie Dundas, U.S. regional manager for Tourism New Zealand, said that "The Lord of the Rings" movies were among "the biggest contributors to awareness for New Zealand from '03-06." She estimated that tourism numbers rose between 3-5 percent in each of the years that movies in the trilogy were released.

"We called it our three-hour commercial," she joked, adding that the blockbuster films "put New Zealand on the map for a larger proportion of Americans than we could have hoped to achieve through just advertising."

Australian tourism boards, meanwhile, are counting on the country's natural beauty to lure moviegoers across the seas.

Another lure? Kidman has spoken in interviews of the "fertility waters" of Kununurra, saying that she and six other women on the film became pregnant after swimming among the waterfalls outside the town.

cnn.com

8 Green Travel Tips

2008-11-18T09:07:00.000-08:00

Easy things you can do on your next vacation to give the planet some well-deserved R & R, too

Be choosy when booking a bed.
Rooms in all price ranges are on the green bandwagon. Many Holiday Inns use CFL lightbulbs, and they all serve Rainforest Alliance Certified coffee. Marriott, InterContinental, Kimpton, Fairmont, and Sandals offer environmental programs; go to www.environmentallyfriendlyhotels.com or www.greenhotels.com for more green options.

Go paperless with your PDA.
Save a tree — and your back — by downloading travel guides, maps, and even boarding passes onto a handheld device. Lonely Planet sells travel content in “Pick & Mix Chapters” downloads, allowing you to buy only the information you need and view it on your PDA, and Rough Guides provides free downloads of cultural audio “iToors” for iPods. On domestic flights, Air Canada offers paperless tickets featuring scannable electronic bar codes that are sent to your cell phone or PDA. Continental Airlines is currently testing this technology.

Streamline your suitcase.
Even 10 extra pounds per passenger translates into the need for extra fuel, which can then lead to more carbon dioxide emissions. Pack light.

Towel off twice.
Use only the towels you need, hang them to dry, then reuse. Likewise, why have your sheets changed every day? Leave a note for housekeeping to skip changing the sheets and towels. Opting to use them again can save up to 30 gallons of water a day.

Bring your own shampoo — or take theirs.
Hotel soaps and bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and lotion that have been opened — even if just for one use — are routinely tossed in the trash. Carry your own amenities in reusable travel containers. If you open one of theirs, toss it in your bag to be finished off at home and refilled for future trips.

Eat locally.
An American meal involves food flown in from, on average, five different countries, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council. Minimize food-transport pollution by choosing a restaurant that utilizes regional ingredients.

Drink locally.
If the tap water is safe, go ahead and drink it. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, while public water gets tested for contaminants thousands of times a year, bottled-water facilities may not test their products as frequently. Plus, a discarded plastic bottle can take years to biodegrade.

Walk, ride, or rent a hybrid.
Too far to walk? Hop on a bus or the subway. Most cities’ transportation-authority websites have a route-planner function; also try www.hopstop.com or www.subwaynavigator.com. If your trip requires a car, rent a hybrid (choose “hybrid” under “car options” at www.kayak.com) to reduce emissions by up to one-half. The next best option? Find a “green” car at www.hybrids.orbitz.com.
Written by Nicole Alper, Elizabeth Jenkins, Kate Merker, and Lori Seto

BALI AFTER DARK

2008-11-18T08:08:00.000-08:00

Night life in Bali starts late, which means around midnight. Many visitors wonder where crowds of expats suddenly come from around 1:00 in the morning – even when all of Kuta has been very quiet during the whole evening, the IN-places often become crowded after midnight.

There's a simple explanation: during the early evenings many of Bali's night owls either still work, visit friends at home, or simply sleep. Most of them visit pubs, bars, or discos only in the early morning hours. Therefore, if you plan a night out don't start your dinner too early. Between 9:00 p.m. and midnight there are not many places we can recommend.

Visitors looking for company don't need to worry. Wherever you go in Sanur and the Kuta area, there are many other single travellers with the same problem around – day and night. In Bali's discos you'll meet also many "kupu kupu malams" ("night butterflies" or working girls) and young boys who compete with the females and service all sexes. All taxi drivers know the more popular karaoke bars and massage parlours in Kuta and Denpasar, and the various "Houses of ill Repute" in Sanur's narrow back lanes.

As reported in the BALI travel FORUM: "Prostitution is illegal in Bali. However, like in many countries, everyone turns a blind eye. Many girls can be found in nightclubs and bars in most areas. They look usually just like the girl next door, albeit with a bit more make up on, and they usually dress to please the eye. For the most part, they are gentle, easy to be with, and a lot of fun if you want to dance, drink and have a little fun with. Most will be yours for the whole night for about 300,000 Rupiah although prices range from 100,000 Rupiah to 1,000,000 Rupiah and more – depending on the season, the time of night, the situation and the quality of service".

SANUR & NUSA DUA

Some quite popular places in Sanur are the BORNEO PUB on Jalan Danau Tamblingan and the TROPHY PUB in front of the Sanur Beach Hotel. Both, however, close around 1:00 a.m.

The JAZZ GRILLE, located at the Komplek Pertokoan Sanur Raya No. 15/16 at the By-Pass opposite the Radisson hotel, was opened in February 1999 and attracts tourists and locals alike with live bands (from 9:30 to 12:00 p.m.), a smallish menu, and a billiard table upstairs. KAFE WAYANG in the same building has life music with a good local band and jam sessions with foreign guests every Friday – no wonder it's very popular with many residents. JANGER is currently the only disco in Sanur. Most tourists and even the expats living in Sanur prefer to go to "Kuta" if they look for some fun.

The discos and pubs in Nusa Dua's 5-star hotels are often rather empty. They are mostly frequented by those visitors who stay in-house and are too tired to make the 30 minutes drive to Kuta.

THE "KUTA" AREA

Everybody looking for some action and fun in the evening goes to "Kuta" which nowadays means the area extending about 4 miles or 7 kilometers North from the original village of Kuta and includes now Legian, Seminyak and even Basangkasa. Here are most of the better entertainment places offering EVERYTHING single male or female visitors as well as couples might be looking for.

There are several places such as CASABLANCA etc. – down-market open-air pubs and very noisy discos full of stoned Aussies courting Javanese "Kupu Kupu Malams". PEANUTS Discotheque on Jalan Raya Legian at the Jalan Melasti corner (about the border between Kuta and Legian) has been re-opened very soon after it was gutted by a fire. The huge (air-conditioned) dance floor is often crowded, guests are a mix of locals and younger foreign visitors.

Closer to the center of Kuta you find the BOUNTY SHIP with a noisy, over-air-conditioned disco in the basement and the re-built PADDY'S not far from the original PADDY'S. Much more "IN" nowadays is the newer M-BAR-GO which features really good music and a better crowd than most other places. SKY GARDEN is also on the main road and an interesting place to go. The bar is on the top floor, the three storeys below feature all different lounge areas. The menu is huge but the food is often disappointing. When most places close around 2.00 or 3.00 in the morning, night owls of all kinds continue drinking at nearby MAMA'S until sunrise.

For a somewhat more civilized evening out, you can have dinner and a couple of drinks at the bar at either TJ's or KORI in Kuta, at POCO LOCO in Legian, at the open street side bar at NERO Bali right opposite AROMAS Restaurant in Kuta, at the re-built MACCARONI CLUB in Kuta, at MADE'S WARUNG in Basangkasa (see BALI - Restaurants to Enjoy), or at the trendy HU'U Bar & Lounge near the Petitenget temple, LA LUCIOLA and THE LIVING ROOM.

One of the most trendy venues in Bali is KU DE TA right on the beach adjacent to the Oberoi hotel. This is the place to see and be seen, and from late afternoon on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays there is a DJ providing rather noisy entertainment for Bali's beautiful people. Hot contender is SUNSET ON SIX (SOS) on the sixth floor rooftop terrace of the up-market ANANTARA RESORT — set right on the beach next door to GADO GADO and opened in May 2008. Both places are great to watch Bali's famous sunsets, but expect to pay for a cocktail around US$7 and more.

Something more outrageous and only for open-minded people is HULU CAFE in Garlic Lane between Jalan Padma and Jalan Melasti in Kuta/Legian, a place which calls itself the "only real gay bar in all of Bali" with drag shows starting at 11:00 p.m. three times per week. The performances are actually kind of funny!

You'll find a large and quite popular HARD ROCK CAFE right at the beginning of Kuta's beach road with live music from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. Expect to find many singles of all kinds here looking for company. If you think this is too noisy, too crowded, or the air-conditioning too cold for you, try the CENTER STAGE at the HARD ROCK RESORT located in the back of the CAFE. As the name implies, the band performs on a raised stage in the middle of the huge round lobby bar until 11:00 p.m. Both HARD ROCK outlets are expensive by Bali standards.

The JAYA PUB on the main road in Seminyak features also live music and attracts many Indonesian customers who don't mind the chilling air-conditioning and the sometimes horrible bands and singers.

Seminyak's best place to have a drink and some fun at night are nowadays probably OBSESSION World Music Bar and SANTA FEE Bar & Grill, Jalan Abimanyu (also known as Gado Gado Road or Jalan Dhyana Pura). Life music, reasonably priced cocktails, a surprisingly good wine list (you have to ask for it, but the prices are very low for Bali standards), and a menu offering local, Mexican, and Japanese dishes as well as a choice of pizzas around the clock and the friendly service attract many visitors until the early hours. If you feel too hot downstairs, you can move to the small air-conditioned "Wine Lounge" upstairs where you find also a rather good choice of wines to take home.

Other popular night spots nearby in the same street are SPY BAR, LIQUID, Q BAR ("for the alternative lifestyle"), SPACE and THE GLOBE. New bars and "Chill-Out Lounges" are opening all the time, and most of them feature DJ's and/or live music on certain nights. Just walk down the road and check them out !

Later, from 2:00 a.m., it's party time at the SYNDICATE, BACIO and DOUBLE SIX, a large open-air disco with several bars, big dance floor, and many tables. All three are located next to each other on the beach in Seminyak and charge an entrance fee of 30,000 to 100,000 Rupiah (depending on the day) for which you get a voucher for a free drink. Here and in nearby DE JA VU you'll find most of Bali's night owls drinking and dancing the night away until 4:30 a.m. or so. (The legendary GADO GADO Disco has been re-converted into a restaurant.)

Also, watch out for notices and small posters in Kuta and Seminyak announcing special events such as Full Moon Parties, House Warming Parties, Body Painting Parties, etc, etc. If these "parties" are announced to the public (even if only by word-of-mouth), they are open for everybody. You'll have to pay for your drinks, therefore, don't be shy.

UBUD

Don't expect too much here. We are not Ubud nightlife experts, but names frequently mentioned include PUTRA BAR, Jl. Monkey Forest (every night live music ranging from Reggae to rock), MAGIC BAR, Jl. Monkey Forest (live music and sometimes great atmosphere), JAZZ CAFE, Jl. Tebesaya (live music and jam sessions on different nights), EXILE BAR (Saturday nights only, great music), and FUNKY MONKEY (early hours cafe).

www.baliguide.com

20 Tips For Planning A Successful African Safari Vacation

2008-11-18T07:33:00.000-08:00

When planning a Safari, the starting point is to think about the time of year you wish to travel; the anticipated duration of your trip; the type of accommodation you prefer; your budget and any special interests you wish to pursue. The more we know about your aspirations for the trip the easier the planning.

Before even contemplating the different safari areas and the camps/lodges within them, it is helpful to consider the broader context within which the safari areas exist. The first question to ask your self is whether you want the high end exclusive safari destination or a low cost destination. This immediately helps to focus on specific countries, for instance if you are looking for the high end market you may start focusing on Botswana or Namibia, if you are looking for bargain safaris, you may want to focus on South Africa, Zambia or Zimbabwe. By comparing the relative strengths between countries, your choice is further narrowed. The final step is to compare the safari areas within specific countries to decide which is/are most likely to provide the safari experience that you are looking for.

In this article I will highlight the most important factors that you need to take into consideration or think about when planning a safari. I intend to write some sequels focusing in detail on the safari options in different southern African countries, including South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

1. Do some research

Start by reading articles or books about African safaris and the ‘big five’ Visit tour operator and travel agency websites to compare information. Make sure as part of your research you get a safari video to have a preview of what to expect.Through your research you will decide if you will go for a packaged tour or a self drive or a combination of both.

2. Cost of a Safari

Various factors play a role in one's choice of safari destination and, for most people, cost is one of the many criteria that influence this important decision. The explanation for cost differences between safari destinations, and between camps/lodges within the same areas, is multi-faceted and complicated. The safari market in southern Africa is highly competitive and driven by supply and demand; for instance, right now, Zimbabwe safaris are at a bargain because of the low demand resulting from the political and economic crisis in the country and the uncertainty as to whether or not the general elections coming in March 2008 will be peaceful. It is important to note that in most cases the cost of a safari excludes international flights to/from Africa; visas; passports; vaccination costs; excess baggage charges; optional excursions; spending money; tips; local and airport taxes.

3. Game Concentration

For most people, an African safari is not complete when they do not see the big five – elephant, rhino, leopard, lion and leopard. These animals are concentrated at different places. Please be aware that your trip might bring you into close contact with these wild animals, which can be a threat to your safety and your health. Many of the safari camps are unfenced and particular care must be taken. It is essential that you always follow the advice of your guides, do not walk out on your own and do not touch any plants, animals or insects. You should understand the risks involved and take responsibility for your own safety. Please note that most safari lodges will require you to sign a personal indemnity form and you must be prepared to sign these.

4. Camp/lodge experience.

The level of style and luxury in accommodation, the quality of food and service, facilities and amenities are all important factors to consider when planning a safari. The more expensive properties invariably excel in these elements of the overall experience.

5. Wilderness and exclusivity.

As a rule, the larger and more private the concession /reserve, the higher the premium. Botswana (where private concessions are typically 100,000 acres or larger) is the most prominent example of this model of 'low volume / high value' eco-tourism. Zambia is an 'emerging' safari destination heading towards this model.

6. Remoteness.

The further from civilization a camp/lodge, the more expensive it is to supply and operate, and the higher the access costs for guests. Zambia's three major National Parks are very different and fairly far removed from each other. This makes a Zambian safari a very diverse experience, but travel costs are a little higher than in Botswana for example. Namibia, home to some of southern Africa's most remote camps, is perhaps the most pronounced example of this type of safari.

7. Convenience.

Camps/lodges with private airstrips that are close to camp offer increased convenience due to shorter transfer times between the airstrip and camp. This means less time in transit and more time on safari or relaxing. Such airstrips, in addition to being expensive to build and maintain, are desirable to guests and attract a premium.

8. Political situation.

The biggest factor influencing the discounted rates in Zimbabwe is the negative perception surrounding the government of Robert Mugabe. Without doubt this regime has had a very negative impact on the lives of local Zimbabweans but, as a safari destination for foreign visitors, it is still a good deal destination.

9. Passports & visas.

A full passport is essential and must be valid for at least six months after your return. Generally, visas are not required in South Africa and Botswana for United States and United Kingdom passport holders. Visas are required for Zimbabwe and Zambia.

10. Insurance.

It is a condition of booking for most safari tours that all passengers have insurance cover. Your insurance should be fully comprehensive and include 24-hour emergency medical cover and repatriation along with general cover for travel cancellation and theft of valuables and personal items.

11. Health.

You should consult your doctor at least six weeks prior to travel. If guests have any medication requirements an adequate supply should be brought from home, as it might not be available locally. Anti-malaria medication is essential. It is recommended that visitors bring plenty of insect repellent and sun cream.

12. Safety & security.

In general, people in Africa have an enviable reputation for being friendly and welcoming. Along with most countries around the world, mugging can be a problem in certain towns and it is advisable that you do not walk at night unless you know the area well. If you are driving yourself it is sensible to arrive at your destination before dark as a myriad of animals enjoy lying on the roads at night. It is always sensible when traveling to take precautions against theft. By far the best precaution is to avoid taking valuables with you on holiday. If you do carry valuables ensure you are discreet. Do not leave any valuables or luggage unattended in a vehicle, unless in a locked trunk.

13. Clothing.

The dress code at all of the camps and lodges is casual and there is no requirement to dress for dinner. We recommend that you wear neutral colors with a good pair of lightweight walking boots for game walks. Evenings are generally spent around a campfire, so a lightweight jumper is advisable. Early morning and night game drives can get very cold, particularly in June/July, so it is recommended that you bring a warm jacket and woolly hat. During the heat of the day a shady hat is essential. A long sleeved shirt and long trousers offer a degree of protection from mosquitoes.

14. Fitness levels.

There is generally no fitness requirement for safaris. On walking safaris the walks are slow and gentle, although the ground is often uneven. Game drives can be bumpy at times and might be uncomfortable for people with back problems.

15. Luggage limits.

A luggage limit applies for light aircraft transfers between camps. Soft bags are recommended for these flights. You will normally be advised of the requirements (if any) at the time of booking.

16. Travel in Africa.

Part of what makes Africa so special is that it is very different from Europe and the USA. Please accept that things do not always happen the way you would normally expect and you must be prepared to adapt your arrangements as necessary. Whilst tour operators make every effort to ensure that your trip goes smoothly it is recommended that you be patient and understanding, accepting a degree of uncertainty and enjoying Africa as it is.

17. Climate.

Although local weather conditions vary, the main weather patterns are the same throughout Southern Africa. Evenings and early mornings can get quite chilly, particularly between May and August. October can be extremely hot and humid (although this is the best time for game viewing as animals congregate around the remaining water). The rainy season is normally between November and March.

18. Currency.

The local currencies in the major safari destination countries are the Zambian Kwacha, the Botswana Pula, South African Rand, Namibian Dollar, Mozambican Metical and the Zimbabwean Dollar. Tourists are expected to use US Dollars in camps, lodges and hotels. For local shopping for souvenirs and sundries you will need local currency. Banks will generally exchange US Dollars, English Pounds, Euros and US Dollars are required for visas purchased at the border posts (take the correct amount as any change will be given in local currency). In most of these countries, especially Zimbabwe, there are black market currency dealers. Changing currency in the black market is illegal, and you can be robbed of your money and valuables. Always ask your hotel staff about exchanging currency.

19. Time.

Zambia, Namibia, Mozambique, Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa are all 2 hours ahead of GMT.

20. Memories

Get a journal book, camera or camcorder to document your experiences.

Happy safari planning and enjoy the unspoiled African wild!

by: Lovemore Ncube

Sydney Suggested Itineraries

2008-11-17T08:03:00.000-08:00

Sydney, the Harbour City - sunny, welcoming familiar - and why wouldn't it be with all those famous icons. The Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, that soaring skyline. Yet for all its attractions you never lose the feeling that Sydneysiders (as the locals are known) are busy people - commuters outnumber visitors at Circular Quay, after all. Breathtaking views, world-class shopping, cutting-edge dining, and vibrant nightlife - there's no shortage of things to see and do in Sydney.

Day 1: The Heart of the City

Sydney's core is the Circular Quay, with its great views of the harbor, the bridge, and the Opera House; the historic Rocks; and the Central Business District (CBD). You can cover much of this in a day, and you have several options for getting around. It's eminently walkable, though you may want to let someone else do the work. One of the most popular modes is the Sydney hop-on/hop-off bus tour , which from the open top of a double-decker bus gives you a nice panorama. For a different perspective, try a Sydney cycling tour (those hills should give you a workout) or sailing on the Sydney Harbour - the views from the harbor are unsurpassed. Or just splurge and circle the city by helicopter. For heaps of good deals on tours, museums, zoos and more, along with hefty discounts on over 100 places, try the Smartvisit Card.

Perhaps the city's most famous icon is the Opera House - it has after all been nominated as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. And who doesn't yearn to see what's inside those sweeping rooflines (modeled, it's said, on segments of an orange)? There are several ways to find out: first, there's your basic walking tour of the Sydney Opera House, which takes you to places you'd normally need a ticket for; then there's the more exclusive backstage tour of the Sydney Opera House, which starts early before the places fills up with stagehands and prima donnas, and includes breakfast. Finally, when the ballet is in season, you can combine a guided tour with dinner and a dance (by ballerinas, that is).

When you've exhausted yourself with sight-seeing a bit of retail therapy doesn't go astray does it? Many districts and suburbs have funky shops - vintage clothes in Darlinghurst, surf gear in Bondi, knickknacks in Newtown. Sydney's got shopping centers and chi-chi boutiques, but the queen of them all is the Queen Victoria Building, a domed 19th-century temple of commerce and worth a visit on its own.

You may not have thought of Sydney as an adventure-travel destination but there is a surprising number of options for thrill-seekers. It's not your imagination - those are actually people crawling their way across the top of Harbour Bridge during the Sydney Harbour Bridgeclimb. You can also fight vertigo atop the 268m (879ft) Sydney Tower if you do the Sydney Skywalk (those who prefer to take their views from on high safely behind glass can take an elevator to the enclosed observation deck). If G-forces float your boat, why not do high-speed doughnuts in a jet boat on Sydney Harbour? And if that isn't enough for you, combine it with a seaplane ride over Sydney. Or simply cheat death and dive with the sharks .

Day 2: Exploring Sydney

Radiating outward from the Circular Quay are Sydney's suburbs and beaches, at once bohemian and bronzed. You can go bargain hunting in Paddington, dining in Darlinghurst, or surfing in Bondi. If you don't mind a bit of grit and grime with your glitter and glam you can have a pint in King's Cross and take in a drag queen show. Or you can get the ferry to Manly where you can start with a tour, and watch the surfers on the ocean beach while tucking into some fish and chips.

Get up close and personal with the local fauna. The Taronga Zoo is minutes from downtown by ferry and features platypi, echidnas, kookaburras and other Australian natives, and you can get a personal tour from an expert guide. If you prefer your creatures wet, slimy and/or scaly, check out the Sydney Darling Harbour Aquarium and Oceanworld Manly .

One thing you will not want for in Sydney is good food. You can't swing a cat without hitting a trendy new bistro, trattoria, or noodle house. Start the day with some of the best espresso this side of Rome in Newtown, or heavenly corn fritters in Darlinghurst. Pack a picnic or nosh on nori at the Fish Market, or stuff yourself with fried dumplings in Chinatown. When dinner rolls around you've got no shortage of restaurants, though you might consider taking advantage of Sydney's fine waterfront location and take a dinner cruise on the Sydney Harbour. Or, if you don't mind going in (slow) circles while you eat, admire the view from the Sydney Tower Restaurant.

Sydneysiders have both a penchant for dressing up and throwing a party - or just holing up at their local bar and sipping a postmodern cocktail. There are hip bars and pubs all over town, though perhaps the most unique is the Minus5 Ice Lounge, which is as frigidly cool as it sounds.

Day 3: Excursions

As strong as Sydney's pull may be, there are many places beyond the city limits to tempt you. One of the most beautiful of these is the Blue Mountains, about 50 miles (80km) west-northwest of the city. Heavily forested and teeming with wildlife, a Blue Mountains Day Trip is an excellent way to spend your time. You can also visit the Jenolan Caves, or tool around on a four-wheel drive explorer trek.

Australia is justly famous around the world for its wine, and one of its best regions is the Hunter Valley. This is shiraz and chardonnay country, though you can fine delectable semillon. You can do a Hunter Valley Day Trip to a few local wineries, or spend some time soaking up the local history on the Hunter Valley Wine and Wilderness tour. If you're pressed for time and have the cash, why not take a helicopter to luncheon in the Hunter Valley?

The foregoing should give you an idea of what to get up to in Sydney; for more tips check out Viator's complete list of things to do in Sydney. If you want to extend your trip to other parts of Australia, it's a big country, so you've got lots of choices. You could go north to Brisbane and the Gold Coast and find out why it's called 'BrisVegas'. Or keep going to Far North Queensland and test your mettle with the crocodiles and cassuaries.

You could also hit the other capitals - Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Darwin, and the national capital, Canberra. Or go walkabout in the Never Never (ie tour the Outback

yahoo.com

America's Best Ski Destinations

2008-11-17T07:55:00.000-08:00

There's Snow Place Like These
Whether your idea of hitting the slopes is a graceful slalom through pristine powder or busting a backside 720 on the halfpipe, the winter-sports season is just around the corner. To help you plan your winter ski vacations, we've compiled a list of some of the best mountain destinations across the country. What are you waiting for? It's all downhill from here.

Top Ski Destinations

1. Stowe, VT
2. Telluride, CO
3. Vail, CO
4. Snowmass Village, CO
5. Aspen, CO
6. Lake Tahoe/Squaw Valley, CA
7. Sunriver, OR
8. Cle Ellum, WA
9. Snowbird, UT
10.Whitefish Mountain, MT

yahoo.com

How To Cut-Down Traveling Expenses

2008-11-15T06:58:00.000-08:00

Everyone needs a break from day-to-day boring routines. To overcome boredom usually a person takes short span holidays and travels to vibrant and chilling destinations. Adventuresome and pleasurable journeys are planned to get few days of relief from everyday stress hanging over the mind. But the most important question comes to our mind is How To Make Our Journey within the budget. We need to do one thing before any planning that simply aim at reducing the unnecessary cost. If our budget is tight then also you can plan out your travel. Here are some precious tips to cut down your traveling expenses:)

•TRACK YOUR SAVINGS: Luxurious flights can be avoided. Search for lowest airfare providers. Spending too much on flights may hamper the budget dead line. Various Airlines are available which charge low rates to the passengers. Travelers can check the list of flights and book them according to their budget.
•ONLINE TRAVEL AGENTS: To plan out your travel online travel agents can provide good offers and bountiful information of desired destination. They provide easy services to customers and all sorts of comforts which are desired by travelers without crossing budget.
•SHUTTLE BUSES: Taxis are often too costly. The shuttle bus service is the most cost effective way for reaching the desired destinations. Major airports offer such service to the passengers. They run from airport to the hotel within the city or at city center. Cabs or local taxis can be hired at cheaper rates in the city.
•SHORTER TRIP: Trip should be planned for full enjoyment, no matter if it is planned for few days. Short trip saves much money which meets budget dead line. This technique will prove stress buster and fruitful in lowering the cost. Another short vacation can be planned after some time and money saved in this trip can be used later.
•OPT CAMPING: Expensive hotels and luxurious resorts prove to be bad option for low budget tour. Spending too much on enjoying the stay can cause over budget. It can be avoided by parking your vehicle near restrooms and close to running water, it will save your penny.
•BUY A TIMESHARE: If you are willing to plan out your holidays to a particular location every year, may be near coastal areas or hilly regions, you may purchase a lodging place. It will save your penny from expensive stay.
•DISCOUNT VACATIONS: Often special offers like holiday package or free coupons are available for enjoying the long weekend. Such opportunities should not be missed. Yellow pages can also be checked for it.

Application of your sharp mind and vigilance over cost issues can prove to be beneficial in cutting down of heavy expenses inflicted on you during traveling. Requirement is of careful planning out vacations and you can rock within budget.
Posted by Lauren

Gay Travel Destinations: United States

2008-11-15T06:46:00.000-08:00

For gay and lesbian travelers, there are few greater destinations than the United States.

Its major cities are amongst the wildest party destinations with the greatest number of gay and lesbian bars and clubs, and a whole host of riotous parades, festivals and marches. Nor is it a coincidence that they boast a plethora of the world’s finest theatres, art galleries, museums and other centers of cultural activity.

In this section, we detail three destinations that we felt sure would not disappoint.

Gay New York City
New York City was voted the most popular destination for gay and lesbian travel by PlanetOut for 2006. And it really doesn’t take a great stretch of the imagination to see why.

In addition to being the self-styled ‘capital of the world’, the Big Apple is arguably also the ‘gay capital of the world’.

Traditionally, the home of the New York gay and lesbian community has been Greenwich Village (or, as New Yorkers calls it, West Village). If it’s gay landmarks that you’re looking for, and you want to take in a bit of the area’s history, you can stop by the former residences of the lesbian author Willa Cather and the gay civil rights activist Bayard Rustin.

But gay life in New York is by no means confined to West Village, and in the last few years other pockets of gay life have sprung up across the city. There is a strong community in East Village and the Upper West Side particularly, while Chelsea, just to the north of Greenwich Village, may be the city’s most staunchly gay male neighborhood.

During the day you’d be foolish if you didn’t take the opportunity to explore the entire length and breadth of the island of Manhattan.

The Upper East Side with its antique dealers like Christie's and Sotheby's, bespoke jewelers, exclusive boutiques and stylish restaurants, may be easy on the eye, but it certainly isn’t easy on the wallet. Gallery-wise the visitor to New York is spoilt for choice, as the city is indisputably the nation’s artistic motor.

Historically, many of those who have driven this artistic momentum, and who continue to drive it, are gay men and women.

But it’s after dark that the city really comes into its own. New York is a city that truly runs the full gamut from the highly sophisticated to the seedy, and even to the downright sleazy.

You can trip the light fantastic and take in a Broadway musical, head to the theatre or the opera, or join the throngs of pleasure-seekers in the city’s unparalleled club and bar scene.

The highlight of the gay calendar – the annual LGBT Pride March – which includes Rally, Pridefest, and Dance on the Pier, takes place from June 18 to 25. The March, which traditionally starts on the Sunday, is one of the largest and most important of the world’s pride events with more than 700,000 people taking part. But there’s also a serious note to the festivities.

The symbolic significance of the march mounts as it leaves Fifth Avenue, takes a right on to Greenwich Avenue and, then a left on to Christopher Street and into Greenwich Village, the area that has witnessed, and acted as catalyst, to some of the seminal moments in gay history and cultural development.

The infamous Stonewall riots of June 1969 (the importance of which is commemorated with a plaque at Stonewall Place) came against a backdrop of activism inspired by a refusal to yield to intolerance and bigotry, and proved to be the defining moment for the gay civil rights community in the US.

Gay Los Angeles
Los Angeles, with its gorgeous beaches lined with palm trees swaying in the gentle sea breezes, its throngs of gay and lesbian bars, clubs, shops and restaurants, is not so much a great gay travel destination, as a gay paradise. So it’s little wonder that it has a rapidly expanding gay community amongst the city’s population of 17 million people.

If it was the silver screen that created Hollywood, and turned it into a byword for glitz and glamour, it is now governed by the value-system that it spawned. This is the ‘City of Angels’ after all, and with movie-stars competing with one another for attention on the Sunset Strip, and their gay counterparts doing likewise on Santa Monica Boulevard, physical beauty is high on the agenda.

From the pumped gym-goers to the gorgeous sun-kissed beach-loungers, L.A.’s image-obsession at times seems to know no bounds. And it doesn’t get much more image-obsessed than West Hollywood – WeHo to the initiated – where beautiful gay men and women come together to eat, drink, cruise and have a good time.

Los Angeles is a city that loves to eat out, and it goes without saying that gay Angelenos are obviously no exception. Many of the restaurants in West Hollywood, and to an even greater extent, on Santa Monica Boulevard, cater to a largely gay clientele.

There, a welter of top-class restaurants can furnish you with great food and even better opportunities for people-watching. In addition to its many gay and lesbian bars and clubs, Santa Monica Boulevard also has a vast array of gay-interest shops. Elsewhere in Hollywood, the LGBT Center on North Hudson Avenue is held to be the biggest gay and lesbian organization anywhere in the world.

If you fancy a little excursion, (and providing you don’t get caught in the traffic) an hour’s drive from central Los Angeles takes you to Long Beach where another energetic gay scene can be found. The ‘Broadway Corridor’, as it’s known to Long Beach residents, has a large number of gay-owned businesses, and is a great shopping destination, as well as having the usual array of bustling cafes, smart restaurants and bars.

Gay San Francisco
A little further up the Californian coast from Los Angeles, and if anything, it just gets better for the gay or lesbian traveler. A small city that makes up in vibrancy and feverish gay activity for what it lacks in size, San Francisco is a city defined by countercultural open-mindedness and freedom of expression.

Like New York, the city has the military to thank – at least in part – for the accidental role that it played in developing its gay identity. During the Second World War, sailors who received a ‘blue discharge’ for homosexual offences frequently chose to stay in the ports where they were, rather than head home in disgrace. And so a gay community was born.

Now, many years on, as a reflection of San Francisco’s status as one of the world’s preeminent gay centers, the city’s Pride Event (held in the last week of June) is no small affair. As well as this massive outpouring of gay and lesbian pride, the city also puts on several other events annually that are well worth a look.

New York may have Greenwich Village and Chelsea, while LA has West Hollywood and Santa Monica Boulevard, but San Francisco has the even more distinctly rainbow-colored communities of Castro, Polk Street and the SOMA. And, of the three, it’s Castro that really stands out as possibly the world’s gayest street, whose siren song can be heard across the known gay world.

The Castro, with nearby Market Street (on which can be found a massive LGBT community center) to the fore, is, in effect, an all-gay neighborhood with a network of bars, clubs, shops, gyms and saunas.

Both within and outside the borders of San Francisco’s gay districts, the city has a great gastronomical reputation, with any number of excellent restaurants to choose from.

Quite apart from the gay tourism, San Francisco has a wealth of other sights to see. Iconic images such as the city’s familiar undulations, the glorious Golden Gate Bridge, and the eerie Alcatraz prison lurking out in the bay, stand out.

The city is also blessed with a host of fantastic art galleries and museums, such as the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, and downtown on ‘Theatre Row’, some outstanding theatrical offerings.

hostelbookers.com

Backpackers

2008-11-15T06:24:00.000-08:00

More and more travellers of all ages are setting off to explore the world independently.

Whether you are travelling around Western Europe by train or backpacking through the jungles of East Asia our advice will help to keep you safe.

See our Travel Checklist for some general advice and check our Travel Advice for the countries you plan to visit.

Stay safe and trouble-free:
•get a good guidebook and plan your journey
•ask friends who have travelled for advice
•you’ll be most vulnerable when you first arrive, so book accommodation in advance for your first night away
•if you go out at night, make sure you know how to get back to your accommodation - many hotels and hostels can give you cards that show you how to get back
•obey and respect the local laws - we can’t get you out of prison if you’re arrested abroad
•respect local customs and dress codes – you may cause offence and stand out as a tourist (and target) for thieves
•only change money in banks or legal foreign exchange bureaus – you don’t want to be given fake currency
keep a receipt of all money exchanges
•be very cautious about hitchhiking, especially at night - always travel in pairs and be aware that drivers may expect payment
•take a first aid kit, especially if you are travelling to remote areas
•send important information to your web-based email account for easy access
Drugs and alcohol
•be aware of local attitudes to alcohol and drink sensibly
•remember your insurance policy is unlikely to cover you for drunken accidents!
•don’t ever try to drink alcohol or import it into a country where laws don’t allow it - you could face severe penalties
•don’t get involved with illegal drugs abroad - the penalties may be severe and your insurance will not cover you for illness
•never carry packages through customs for other people, even if you have befriended them during your trip
•don’t travel across borders in other people’s vehicles or lend your vehicle to someone else
•always pack your own baggage and never leave it unattended
Visas and passports
•make sure you’ve got the correct work permits if you’re planning to work whilst travelling - you could face severe penalties or deportation if you work illegally
•don’t overstay your visa - it could lead to a fine or prison. You can extend your visa in most places

fco.gov.uk

Bandung

2008-11-13T08:51:00.000-08:00

Bandung, City of Flowers, is the provincial capital of West Java and Indonesia' s third largest city. Known in colonial times as the Paris of Java because of its European ambiance and sophistication, Bandung shares with Miami a fine legacy of Tropical Deco architecture dating from the 1920's.

Situated on a plateau in the beautiful Parahayangan mountains, Bandung's pleasant climate and lush surroundings have offered an escape from the heat of the lowlands since the mid 19th century when it was the heart of the region's most prosperous plantation area. Host to the historic Asia Africa conference in 1955, Bandung is now a center of higher education ,commerce and aircraft industry which despite its modern amenities still retains much of its colonial era charm.

Bandung is also renowned for its shopping, particularly for shoes, textiles, clothing and denims which are found in the colourful Jeans street . Easily reached from Jakarta by train , road or air (the scenic train trip is recommended), Bandung, with its cool mountain air is a popular second stop for those visiting the national capital and an essential stay-over for travellers enroute through Java.

SHOPPING

As the capital city of West Java, Bandung's shops are filled with products of this far-flung archipelago as well as imported goods. Shopping in Bandung is fun, simple and extensive.

Pasar Kota Kembang, a narrow lane with shops and stalls lining along it, could be a perfect place for bargaining cheap clothes, belts, shoes or handbags. Next to it is a shopping center specializing in textiles. This market lane connects Jl. Asia-Afrika with Jl. Dalem Kaum.

The first market in Bandung located in Kampung Ciguriang, behind Kapatihan was built in 1812. In the middle of l9th century, the market caught on fire. Later,the merchants gathered around Chinatown and established a new market, Pasar Baru. Once it was a beautiful place surrounded by Chinese-Dutch style shops . Now, only a few are left. Nevertheless, it's still the hub of commerce in Bandung. Plenty of textiles, batiks and clothes in cheap and moderate prices are available. You can test your bargaining skill here. A vegetable market is in the basement. Go to Jl. Pasar Utara. A row of stalls sell all sort of snacks, most of them Bandung specialties. You're welcome to have a taste before you buy the snacks. Jalan Pasar Selatan is lined with jeans shops trying to copy the ones in Jl. Cihampelas. Some of these shops are old ones. With the permission of the owner, old building enthusiasts could enter the old shop and take photographs.

Pasar Jatayu, on Jalan Arjuna, is a flea market mixed with motorbike parts shops. After jostling around, you'll find two antique shops in the dark and crammed market. You'll feel like finding a treasure island. Nearby is a row of shops selling military paraphernalia, and the Ciroyom terminal is next to them.

These three markets will be a nightmare for a claustrophobic. Known as The 'Flower City', Bandung certainly has a flower market, located on Jl. Wastukencana. The flowers are supplied from cool uplands that surround Bandung. Nice place to refresh your eyes.

The rather bizarre 'Jean Street', on Jl. Cihampelas, offers all sorts of jeans and T-shirts while offering fantastic shopfronts to view. The shop owners vie for the most elaborate shopfront design in an attempt to lure business.

Shopping centers are in abundance. The Alun-alun area is surrounded by shopping centers, particularly in Jl. Dalem Kaum. Bandung Indah Plaza is the most luxurious shopping center in Bandung. Nearby City Hall in Jl. Merdeka, it is a new favorite place for the young.

On Jalan Braga, you could find souvenir and antique shops, such as Sin Sin established in 1943. Leather shoes and garment at Leather Palace. Snake skin bags, shoes and all sort of suitcases at Cuero. Bookshops in Braga offer a great range of English books and magazines.

PLACES TO EAT

Bandung is heaven to satisfy your taste buds. From traditonal food sold by street vendors up to international ones in fancy restaurants. A warung is regarded as a poor man's restaurant. But on Jl. Bungsu next to Puri Mas Bakery, you could see the newest BMW and Mercedez parked in front of a small lane famous for its Sekoteng Ice. By far the best food money can buy and is served in these makeshift foodstalls with canopies, hardwood benches or stools, and glowing with hissing gas lamps. Open after 5:30 pm.

Groups of nightstalls located in the corner of JI. Merdeka and JI. L.L.R.E. Martadinata spread mouthwatering smells from sizzling sate on red hot glowing charcoal braziers. Try Madurese, chicken, beef, or mutton sate and various kinds of soto, an Indonesian thick soup. Jl. Cikapundung Barat stalls (occupying sidewalks used as a selling place for secondhand books at noon) serve all kinds of popular Indonesian food. Sate Padang Pak Datuk is worth a try.

Near the RRI building on Jl. Diponegoro, you can taste local delicacies such as gorengan (sort of Japanese tempura) from tofu, sweet potato, taro, pineapple, jackfruit, banana and comro (mashed cassava filled with fermented soybean cake). A sip of bandrek -ginger drink- and bajigur -coconut milk sweetened with palm sugar- in a cool night is a nice treat. A piece of sweet awuk (coneshape rice cake with layers of palm sugar) can be enjoyed in Awuk Cibeunying stall. Roasted corn on a cob with four flavors, seafood, Indonesian style Chinese food, pecel lele (fried eel fish with yummy sauce), fried goldfish and chicken porridge all are available.

Feel thirsty when strolling around Alun-alun, go to PakAceng's ice juice pushcart on Jl . Kapatihan in the mouth of a blind alley, next to 'Damai' shop (pay attention to 'Shinly' &'Krizia' billboards). Es campur (mixed ice) or if you want a sterile one, just ask for fresh orange juice with young coconut water placed in a plastic will be made for Rp. 750,-. Since 1967, Pak Aceng has been a famous es campur seller.

As a rule of thumb, warungs line and crowd in almost every intersection. But a good sense and luck play an important part in finding a good warung with fair price and nice food which does not upset your stomach.

Lotek Kalipah Apo, famous for its lotek and gado-gado since 1953, serves all kinds of sweet tasty kolek with thick coconut milk plus pieces of bananas, and rice cakes. A variety of rujak, Indonesian fruit salad, is ready to be tasted. Be wary of the hot sauce of the rujak. Avocado juice, mixed ice, young coconut ice and cendol ice, -colored rice drink with palm sugared coconut milk- can make you real aficionados of these desserts.

Stalls along Jl. Rama offer Indonesian style fried chicken, Chinese food, and much more. The best pempek -a sort of fish meatballs dipped in hot vinegar sauce- can be eaten in one of the stalls here. It's a Palembang specialty.

Craving for western delights, Tizi has a wide range of German touch bread, cakes, cookies, pan cakes, and steaks. A cart selling colenak(roasted fermented cassava root )at the mouth of Jl. Kidang Pananjung is also worth a try. Glosis with romantic lighting and cooler climate of an uphill area could be a perfect place for dinner. Braga Permai with its original Dutch era cake recipes would be a cozy place to recall the atmosphere of old Braga Street.

Queen Restaurant offers luxurious Chinese food while Dai Shogun serves qualified Japanese food, sit facing its heartsoothing garden. Paregu offers less expensive Japanese food with eat your fill Yakiniku and Shabu-shabu. Hanamasa on Jl. Merdeka serves buffet Yakiniku.

asiatravel.com

Best Nude Beaches of Europe - Topless Hot Spots of the Mediterranean

2008-11-12T08:39:00.000-08:00

The naked body confounds and amazes most of us. Seen as a source of visual evil by puritans, the human form has inspired artists, writers, and ne'er-do-wells everywhere. Europeans are less likely than Americans to view the human body as evil--at least if the ire of the Super Bowl halftime viewers close to a phone line is any indication.

You'll see nudity at most any beach along the Mediterranean--or at least toplessness. But Christina Valhouli of Forbes pointed you toward the best beaches--and now we'll show you how to get there and get around.

Plage de Tahiti - Tahiti Beach in Saint Tropez, France

Gawk at topless Jet Setters on this French Riviera beach

Saint Tropez is known for its beaches, and there are plenty of options for folks with families who wish to keep their modesty intact. The Côte d'Azur town is packed in summer. Avoid arriving on weekends, especially if you don't have hotel reservations.

Brigitte Bardot and Ursula Andress started the craze in itty bitty bikinis that shocked even the Europeans in the 50s. By the 60s, the trend toward toplessness became a steamroller, and now just about any beach along the Riviera is topless tolerant.

Plage de Tahiti is noted for its clothing-optional policy and risqué atmosphere, its name a tip of the hat to laid back (French) Polynesian culture. Go in Summer to see celebrity tanners.

Want to bank in the nude? Eat naked? Well, according to Kelby Carr, Cap d'Adge is the French naked city for you.

Paradise Beach - Mykonos Greece

Party Hardy in Paradise

Mykonos is the most popular island destination in Greece. In the summer it's crowded and a bit expensive. You reach it by plane or ferry from Athens (Pireaus). Mykonos is also the name of the port city, where you'll want to stay if you're a partying beach-goer.

Paradise Beach can be reached from Mykonos town by bus, taxi, water taxi, or rented car or moto. Buses run every half hour until 4:30 in the morning, water taxis every hour.

Tripadvisor readers rate Paradise Beach a solid 5 out of 5, one observant and math-savvy reader pointing out that it's "50% topless and 30% nude. All ages...teen to 70." This isn't your star gazing, relaxing bit of sandy shore, especially after 4pm when the beer and music turn Paradise Beach into the ultimate party beach. There are two bars at the beach, the Sunrise Bar and the Tropicana.Once a month in the summer they hold a full moon party at Paradise beach, so check your moon calendar if you like to party.

Playa d’en Bossa - Ibiza, Spain

Where beautiful people go to watch or be watched

Nudism is part of your rights in Spain, according to this document (PDF) put out by the Spanish Naturist Federation.

Ibiza is the third largest of the Balearic Islands. Spanish company Trasmediterranea has a regular ferry service between Ibiza and the ports of Barcelona, Palma de Majorca and Valencia. Ibiza has a long history -it was founded by the Carthaginians in 654 bce. Its walls were built in the 16th century.

Playa d'en Bossa (Platja d’en Bossa) is the longest beach on Ibiza, a place know for hedonism and beaches, 3 km outside of the capital. Its popularity has caused it growing pains recently, but that means there's plenty of bars and cafes on the beach, which is very popular with partygoers heading over to the Bora Bora beach bar as well as families.

By James Martin

New Gay Operator Steps Out with Gay, Green and Affordable Intertnational Tours

2008-11-12T08:22:00.000-08:00

Canadian based OUT Adventures today announced the global launch of operations and website www.out-adventures.com. Business and personal partners Robert Sharp and Steven Larkin have created eco-friendly OUT Adventures in order to address a current gap in the gay and lesbian travel segment that limits adventure travel to a handful of luxury operators.

"As avid gay travelers, Steven and I felt we could leverage our knowledge of the LGBT market and also the mainstream travel industry in order to provide a much more affordable, culturally enriching experience to gay men, lesbians, their friends and families," says Robert.

Larkin adds "Gays and lesbians are looking for their next big travel experience, but amidst economic uncertainty they also don't want to break the bank. We now offer this traveller a truly engaging, comfortable (average 3-3.5 star) experience that leaves them with plenty of spending money."

OUT Adventures will operate closed groups with a maximum of 12 passengers and has over 80 global departures planned in its first year. Trips are tailored to meet the needs of gay and lesbian travellers and begin at $875 CAD for an 8 day trip to Peru including a 3 day hike to Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail. All trips will have a strong focus on responsible travel by using locally owned hotels, restaurants and also interaction with local communities, both LGBT and mainstream.

The company is also leading this niche market by operating in a manner that contributes to the well being of the planet - from using green power in the OUT Adventures head office to including carbon emission off-setting in the cost of approximately 15% of its trips in its first year and in all trips by 2010.

In order to provide the best itineraries at the most affordable prices, OUT Adventures has partnered with one of the world's leading adventure tour operators, Intrepid Travel which will allow OUT to contract with a global network of destination management companies under the Intrepid brand.

Travellers can choose from Active, Comfort, In Style , Independent and also Family trips for same sex couples with children over the age of 6. Trips are available directly through the OUT Adventures website at www.out-adventures.com and travel agents worldwide.

About OUT Adventures Inc.: Toronto, Canada based OUT Adventures was founded by partners Steven Larkin and Robert Sharp and provides affordable and eco-friendly small group adventures to the LGBT community with over 35 worldwide destinations. OUT Adventures is a proud member of the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association and the Travel Industry Council of Ontario.

Intrepid Travel Pty Ltd.:  With over 19 years of experience, Intrepid Travel is one of the world's leading small group adventure tour operators. Intrepid offers over 450 itineraries in more than 90 destinations worldwide. Intrepid trips are designed to go off the beaten track, meet the locals and travel in an unconventional way, joining locals on their transport, in their markets and even in their homes.

Posted by Chuck Thurman

CMI 13th Annual LGBT Tourism Study: Ranking the Most-Visited Destinations

2008-11-12T08:01:00.000-08:00

Travelbag_2 Community Marketing, Inc. (CMI) the San Francisco–based LGBT market research and communications firm, completed its 13th annual LGBT Tourism Study on October 23rd, and is releasing the survey’s key findings. CMI has been studying and reporting on LGBT tourism demographics and trends since 1994. This year, the study’s industry, media and educational partners include IGLTA, USTOA, ASTA, DMAI, CLIA, NTA, Travel Weekly, and the University of Nevada. Over 4,000 geographically representative LGBT American consumers were surveyed about their travel patterns.

The CMI Study explored a variety of timely topics, including research and booking preferences, rating the marketing campaigns of destinations, airlines and hotels, and more. Participants were also asked how the softening economy influenced their travel frequency over the past year, preferred terminology in tourism marketing, and travel to Pride and other community events. Couples were asked if and where they plan to marry.

The Economy: The economy has slowed the growth of LGBT travel this past year. "A sequence of annual studies has shown travel growth year over year" reported David Paisley, Senior Research Analyst of Community Marketing, Inc. "This past year, however, we have seen stagnation in most travel segments." That said, CMI has observed that the gay and lesbian community has been traditionally less impacted by economic fluctuations—compared to their mainstream counterparts—and tend to bounce back faster. "Looking further into the numbers we found that about a third of the survey participants decreased their travel over the past 12 months," added Paisley. "But a third traveled similarly to last year, and about a third increased their travel, taking advantage of the many travel bargains in the market."

Travelnyc Top Destinations: "New York City maintained its enviable position as the #1 destination in the U.S. among LGBT American travelers," Paisley said. "New York has just about everything that gay and lesbian travelers look for in an urban destination: Theatre, cuisine, shopping, night life, and some of the world’s best museums." New York has maintained the #1 position for many years.

TravelggSan Francisco placed #3 for leisure travel and #5 for business travel, but its high rankings in both categories allowed the city to be the #2 overall most-visited destination. Chicago ranked as the #1 business travel destination. Las Vegas ranked as the #2 leisure destination. Other cities ranking in the top ten of either leisure or business travel include: Los Angeles, Fort Lauderdale, Palm Springs, Washington DC, San Diego, Miami, Dallas, Atlanta and Boston.

"CMI doesn’t chart rankings by popular opinion or a 'gay-friendly' reputation," said Paisley. "Our study focuses on the bottom line: A destination's market position is based on overnight visits by LGBT consumers in the past 12 months. CMI has also identified clear differences in destination choice between men and women and among age groups. For example, a city that is popular among Baby Boomer gay men may not rank the same for Generation X lesbians.

Travelbigben "Great Britain is the world’s #1 destination outside of North America." Paisley said, "The remarkable rise of Britain, and especially London as the international gay capital, over the past five years is a validation of their tourism offices' consistent outreach to our community. Britain bypassed the Netherlands (#1 in the ’90s and now #6) several years ago, and just kept going.”

Top Canadian destinations include Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal, with Vancouver being the top leisure destination, Toronto being the top business destination, and their combined scores being almost tied. Montreal also ranked very strong. Canada, with its freedom to marry, gay-welcoming cities, and the return of a favorable exchange rate, is increasingly loved and admired among LGBT American consumers,” said Paisley.

TravelcarribeanMexico/Caribbean destination leaders include Puerto Vallarta, #1 and in the lead among three other Mexican destinations in the top ten; Argentina is the leading South American destination; China is the top destination in the Asia/Pacific region, followed by Japan and Australia; and South Africa is the community's primary destination on the continent.

Marriage Plans: CMI’s LGBT Consumer Index® study asked couples about plans to marry in the coming year. Of the 7,634 LGBT Americans indicating they are in a relationship but not yet in a government-recognized union, 12% indicated plans to marry in California, 5% plan to marry in Massachusetts, and 3% will marry in Canada. About 7% will "register in another country or state," either as a marriage where legal, or as a domestic partner or civil union. Connecticut, because it only recently legalized same-sex marriage, was not included on the list. "Assuming that Proposition 8 does not pass, California is poised to see significant business in same-sex wedding tourism over the next year," Paisley said.

Posted by Chuck Thurman

8 Tips On Dealing With Jet Lag

2008-11-12T07:52:00.000-08:00

Jet lag is an awkward side effect of jet travel when you cross too many time zones for your body's liking. Face it, most of us have enough problems when we shift just an hour to daylight savings. Follow these tips on avoiding jet lag to help reduce the effects.

Not all these tips are relevant for every trip, especially if you're traveling on business at short notice, but at least some of them should be useful for you.

1. Adjust your sleep time

Start helping your body clock to adjust to the new time zone by changing the times that you go to sleep at night and awaken in the morning. You'll start to become accustomed to the new times. Make the adjustment about an hour each night.

2. Set your watch

As soon as you board your flight, set your watch to the new time. We look at our watches an amazingly high amount of times, so adjusting the time as soon as possible will help your mind realize that it's changing clocks.

3. Drink water. Lots of it

Sure, you can ask the stewardess for water but they have hundreds of other passengers to look after as well. Buy a bottle of water once you've passed through airport control and drink plenty of water during your flight.

4. Say no to coffee and alcohol

They both act as dehydrators. So they'll help to dry up your body even more than the flight already does. Soft drinks or water are to be preferred.

5. Get some rest on the flight

Depending on how enthusiastic the cabin staff are, this may be easier said than done. And if that child behind you rocks your seat once more, then that's another story. If you get the option, a window seat or one in the center of a block of seats will minimize the number of people who need to ask you to move out of their way. Noise canceling headphones aren't standard issue on many flights, so if you are a regular traveler then treat yourself to a set. They really do cut down the disturbance of engine noise.

6. Go walkabout occasionally

OK, this is at odds with getting rest. But sitting down for hours on end isn't a good idea either. Walk up and down the aisles a few times. Not so much that you're pacing them but certainly go for this exercise a few times on a long flight. Just be certain not to time your expedition for meal or drinks or duty free services.

7. Adjust to your new time zone on the plane

If it's daytime at your destination, stay awake. If it's night where you are going, get some sleep. You can catch up on the in flight entertainment when you've got a bigger screen and better sound. Start adjusting as soon as you can.

8. Keep adjusting at your destination

Even if you've been on a plane for hours and hours. The sooner you start adjusting, the better. So if you arrive in the dead of night, get to sleep. A dose of melatonin may help here - it's a natural sleeping aid that's already produced by your body.

by: Trevor Johnson

Nude Beaches

2008-11-12T07:48:00.000-08:00

Where to cast off without a care

Nude, naturist, clothing optional, "free" or "FKK" (from the German Freikörperkultur) beaches offer not just the chance to get an all-over tan but to enjoy basking in the sun in the most natural state.

There are some do's and don'ts to casting off. Gawking, photography/filming and lewd behaviour are not tolerated and you may be asked to leave the beach. Many nude beaches are divided into different areas - family, singles and couples, gay. Find out where you belong before you settle down. Finally, don't forget your sun block.

Playa El Mago, Majorca Close to Magaluf, Playa El Mago is Majorca's first official nude beach. A small crystal-clear bay with golden sands and rocky outcrops, it is surrounded by shady pine trees. There is an open air bar too. Playa El Mago is close to the family-friendly beaches of Portals Vells.

Sweetwater, Crete, Greece Also known as Gliko Nero, this beautiful stretch gets its name from the springs of water that bubble under the stones at the back of the beach. It's a laid-back pebble-strewn beach with a hippieish vibe about 25km (40 miles) from Chania. Getting there is a bit of a trek - it's accessible only by boat or foot from Loutro village. A towering cliff adds to the dramatic setting and reflects the sun back onto the beach making this a veritable sun trap. There is a taverna at the western end of the beach where boats from Loutro and Chora Sfakia dock.

Banana Beach, Skiathos, Greece Another Grecian gem - three nude beaches at the southwestern tip of Skiathos Island. Thirty minutes from Skiathos town, it is a beautiful crescent-shaped, golden-sanded spot lapped by the clear waters of the Aegean Sea. The beach is shaded at the back, a small taverna sells light snacks and there are umbrellas and loungers for hire. From the beach there are views of the Pelion and dolphins can often be seen frolicking in the waters. The fish milling around in the shallow waters will take bread straight from your hand.

Sylt, Germany The island of Sylt, one of the Frisian Islands in the North Sea, is known as Germany's St Tropez. Smart Germans flock here in July and August to top up their all-over tans, see and be seen. The island is connected to the mainland by a causeway. It's a charming place with thatched-roof houses, red-and-white striped lighthouses, and, on the beaches, Strandkoerbe (distinctive shell-shaped sun loungers). The west coast of the island is given over to wide white-sand beaches. Buhne 16 is the most tolerant nude beach.

Valalta, Croatia On the Istrian peninsula, 8km (5 miles) from the city of Rovinj, Valalta has 3km (2 miles) of Blue Flag beaches and secluded coves. There is a naturist settlement nearby with a sea-water swimming pool and olive-tree and vine lined green spaces.

Haulover Beach, Miami Only the north side of Haulover Beach is clothing optional, but this is where up to 85 per cent of the beach goers congregate. Located between the cities of Bal Harbour and Sunny Isles, the beach is not exactly wilderness. There are barbecue grills, food and drink stands and showers. For a break from sunbathing there are volleyball games and surfing contests.

Wreck Beach, Vancouver, Canada Take the steep sylvan trail down to Vancouver's only clothing optional beach. Located between Locarno Beach and the endowment lands of the University of British Columbia, Wreck Beach is almost 8km (5 miles) of pristine wilderness in the city. A volunteer organisation ensures it stays that way. Beach goers are a mix of university students, families and committed bare bathers. Beach vendors sell everything from sun block to buffalo burgers.

Montalivet, France There are two nude beaches at Montalivet on the Atlantic Coast of France, to the north and south of the main town. The northern beach is beside the Euronat resort while the southern beach is adjacent to the CHM Montalivet resort, the birthplace of the international naturist movement.

Samurai Beach, Australia At Port Stephens in New South Wales, Samurai Beach is 1km long. Situated by Tomaree National Park, the beach is protected by dense greenery and sand dunes and marked by rocky outcrops at either end. Dolphins swim off the coast in the sparkling blue waters. There are no snack bars or toilets; this is a slice of natural Australia.
Cheapflight.co.uk

Bed Bugs - Travelling Without Getting Stung

2008-11-12T07:39:00.000-08:00

With the rash of reports from travelers around the world getting stung by bedbugs and bringing them home it is no wonder people are in fear every time they leave home. Whether you are hiking in a remote area staying in a flophouse or traveling first class staying at a five star resort you are in danger of an attack of these blood thirsty vermin. Here are a few things you can do to dramatically reduce your chance of bed bug bites though.

• First, never put your bags or clothes on the bed. This common mistake is a virtual invitation for the bugs to hitch a ride home with you. Never leave your clothes or bags on the hotel floor.

• Look behind the headboard and pull the bed out a foot or so look all around the bed for black specks. These creatures are very small if you see anything suspicious call the front desk. Leave the bed out from the wall during your stay. Bed bugs can not fly so if they have been coming from the nightstand they will have to get to you some other way.

• Take a roll of clear packing tape with you while you travel. Wrap the legs of the bed sticky side out to trap the bed bugs trying to get to you. I know this seems extreme but you would rather feel weird than get stung.

• Pull all of the bedding off the sides of the bed and look under the seams of the mattress. You are looking for something that looks like dirt smudges. This is the trail of blood and feces left by the bed bugs. If you find this leave the hotel once you find an infestation you should leave as fast as possible.

• If you are an avid traveler I suggest taking two new king-size sheets and sewing them together on the bottom and sides. Use this at night like a big sleeping bag. Make sure and inspect and fold in the morning. Place this in a garbage bag and seal it while returning home. Unpack this before anything else and wash with the hottest water you have before using again.

• Before leaving the hotel carefully inspect you luggage. Look under all the seams, the bugs you are looking for are sometimes small as a pinhead. Any discoloration, red marks, or stains are tell-tale signs of bed bugs.

• Upon arriving home do not unpack your luggage in your bedroom. Unpack your luggage in your garage. Immediately wash your clothes in the hottest setting your fabrics will stand. Bag up any dry cleaning and take it there ASAP. Leave your luggage in the garage or place a bag around the luggage before returning to your room.

I know this seems like overkill but if you ever get bedbugs you will gladly apply these helpful tips the next time you travel, trust me..

In my next article I will explain how to handle finding bed bugs after you have stayed at a hotel. Even if you find them you do not have to bring them home.

by: Timothy Russell

New Zealand and travel guide

2008-11-12T07:30:00.000-08:00

Reasons to fly to New Zealand

After almost 20,000km, the moment when travellers, on their flights to New Zealand, see those two islands appear on the seat-back map, invites a gasp.
New Zealand’s two islands are breathtaking, sometimes appearing unreal. Towering mountains, simmering volcanoes, sweeping sandy beaches, majestic fjords (in aptly named Fiordland), glacial lakes and lush rainforests... it’s no wonder that when the makers of The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia wanted to portray fairytale lands, they went on location to New Zealand.
More than a third of New Zealand’s land area is within a park or reserve. There are about 15,000 kilometres of coastline and more than 25 marine reserves.
A country the same size as the UK, it has a population of only four million. Its cities - Auckland and Wellington in the north and Christchurch and Dunedin in the south - are bright and bustling, but not crowded.
New Zealand has a tolerant and multi-cultural society. The indigenous Maori people have a fascinating culture, which has informed many parts of New Zealand life. With their non-Maori neighbours, New Zealanders are a friendly, laidback lot, outdoorsy with a famous Kiwi ruggedness.

New Zealand Climate

The weather in New Zealand is changeable throughout the year. The North Island has mild winters and warm and humid summers, the South Island has lower temperatures with cold winters and extensive snowfields and glaciers. Snow falls on all the mountains in winter. The west coast receives the most rain. Summer months are from November to April.

When to Fly to New Zealand

Peak Season:
December, January and February. These are New Zealand’s summer months. Average temperatures are between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius.
Off Season:
Flights to New Zealand are cheaper during July and August. Average winter temperatures are 10-15 degrees Celsius.
Shoulder Season:
March through May. This is autumn. Temperatures are slightly cooler than summer, but the weather can still be excellent and this is the time of year for beautiful autumn foliage in Central Otago and Hawke's Bay in particular. The spring months (September to November) can be excellent times to visit too.

Getting Around New Zealand

Air New Zealand offers domestic New Zealand flights. On the North Island, Air Chathams provides scheduled air services while Air National and Skylink provide charter flights. On the South Island Stewart Island Flights, Air Canterbury and Air Milford operate.
The country has a good public transport system (bus and coach) connecting cities to popular tourist destinations. Apart from renting a car to get around – remember to drive on the left – some travellers rent motor homes to drive and sleep.
Tranz Scenic runs two railways on the South Island. The TranzCoastal operates between Picton and Christchurch; and the TranzAlpine links Christchurch and Greymouth.
Interislander ferries run many times a day between Wellington and Picton.

New Zealand Insider Information

• Kapiti Island, north of Wellington on the North Island, is home to a nature reserve that protects some of the rarest birds in the world. These include Robin, Saddleback, Stitchbird, Kaka, Kakariki, Weka, Kereru, Bellbirds and the extremely rare flightless Takahe. The nocturnal Kiwi, the emblem of New Zealand, also lives here.
• Rotorua in central North Island, is a geothermal area. There are several geysers including the spectacular 20-metre Pohutu geyser at Whakarewarewa (the thermal village) and hot mud pools. It is also the heartland of Maori culture. There are 16 lakes around Rotorua, 11 are fishable and stock trout (rainbow, brown, brook and tiger).Major fishing lakes are Rotorua, Rotoiti, Tarawera, Okataina and Rotoma.
• Larnach Castle is New Zealand’s only castle and Dunedin’s (South Island) top visitor attraction. The castle was built in 1871 by William Larnach for his first wife. It is owned by the Barker family, but it is open for tours and celebrations. The views over the Otago Peninsula are breathtaking. Dunedin is also home to the Cadbury Factory, which features a unique chocolate fall in a five-storey high silo.
• Queenstown is the birthplace of commercial bungee-jumping. The city lies on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, and is surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range, the youngest ski area in the region. The Lindauer Queenstown Winter Festival takes place in late June and July.
• The Lord of the Ringstrail: Mount Aspiring National Park, named for one of New Zealand’s highest peaks, is part of Te Wahipounamu, the South West New Zealand Unesco World Heritage Area. The park, to the south of the Southern Alps, is popular for walking and mountaineering. Many locations around Glenorchy village (Lothlorien, Amon Hen, Orthanc, and Isengard) were used in the films.
• While city-hopping, climb the hills for breathtaking views: Mount Eden and One Tree Hill in Auckland, Mount Victoria in Wellington, the Port Hills in Christchurch and Flagstaff Hill in Dunedin.

cheapflights.co.uk

Foreign Currency and Money Exchange

2008-11-12T07:27:00.000-08:00

Currency is one of the most important parts of any trip. We offer some tips on where best to change your money, a foreign currency converter and other tips to help your well earned dollar travel that bit further.

Currency is one of the most important parts of any trip. We offer some tips on where best to change your money, a foreign currency converter and other tips to help your well earned dollar travel that bit further.
ATM Machines and Currency Exchange - Tips on using your ATM card when travelling overseas. If well researched your ATM card can offer you the best exchange rates and solve the problem of carrying large wads of money around.
** Currency Converter - We have linked up with Oanda to offer you a multi currency converter that allows you to calculate the exchange rate of most of the world's currencies. Please note that the link will open in a new window.
Credit Cards - Another way to avoid carrying lost of cash is to use your credit card. Not all cards are equal though, and we look at some things you should be aware of when travelling.
ATM Card Tips and Credit Card Tips - While using your credit cards and ATM cards is generally a good idea, there is risk attached. We look at some of the things you should be aware of when using your cards.
Travellers Cheques - While we recommend using your ATM or credit cards when travelling, travellers cheques can help you avoid certain potential problems associated with using your cards, but that extra piece of mind comes at a cost.
Pictures of the Euro - Many of us are accustomed to Europe's old currencies, the franc, lira etc but with the Euro now being used in almost every European country it helps to get acquainted with how this new currency looks.
VAT Refunds for Travellers in Thailand - Guide to claiming back VAT on purchases made in Thailand.

Asiantraveltips.com

United Kingdom and travel guide

2008-11-12T07:19:00.000-08:00

Reasons to fly to United Kingdom

The Union Jack, the Queen and lively pubs are among some of the quintessential images that portray the UK. But beyond these clichés is a country with great history and some of the most wonderfully diverse landscapes on the planet. Made up of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland travellers thinking of booking a flight to the UK could find it hard to choose just one place to visit. The obvious choice might be England and its thriving capital London or the seaside town of Brighton and the picturesque villages of Cornwall. Those in search of a little more adventure or an active holiday should head to Wales where its mountainous terrain and hiking trails will keep even the most jaded adventurer agape.
The cities of Scotland, particularly Edinburgh and Glasgow, are always popular with travellers booking flights to the UK. But venture further north to Perthshire and the Grampian hills of Angus to get a taste of the rich Scottish countryside. The counties of Northern Ireland offer visitors travelling to the UK a range of activities including fishing, and rock climbing in Down or strolling through acres of apple orchards in Armagh.

United Kingdom Climate
The UK has a temperate climate. The weather is generally mild, but it varies according to region. The west (Wales) gets more rain than the east (rain that hasn't fallen on Ireland); Scotland and the north of England get the snow in wintertime; and the south east enjoys the lion’s share of the sun and mild, dry weather. The weather is changeable. Carry an umbrella.

When to Fly to United Kingdom
Peak Season:
The UK is a year-round destination and flights to the UK are always packed with travellers eager to explore the country's main attractions. Peak summer months are busiest, especially in London, and the major tourist centres. Summer (June to August) temperatures range between 14 and 30 degrees Celsius.
Shoulder Season:
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) can be great times to visit. The tourist season is just gearing up (or gearing down) and the weather can be sunny and warm. May and September, in particular, can enjoy very good weather.
Off Season:
Winter months (December to early March) can be cold (average temperatures about one-two degrees Celsius), but in general, the further north you go, the colder the weather. This is the time to visit for winter sports. Scotland has five main areas for winter sports: Nevis Range, Glencoe, Glenshee, Cairngorm and the Lecht.

Getting Around United Kingdom

Several airlines connect cities around the UK including BA, easyJet, bmi, bmibaby and Flybe. Air Southwest operates services to the south west of England. ScotAirways connects Scottish cities and Eastern Airways links the east of the UK with Scotland.
Train service is decent, if expensive. In London, the underground rail is punctual and comprehensive. Buy an Oyster card at any Tube station to get around more cheaply. Buying a ticket at the station is much more expensive than using the card - £1.50 for a zone 1 ticket as opposed to £4 at the station. There are trams in several cities including Manchester and Sheffield. Croydon has a Tramlink and Blackpool, the resort town in Lancashire, has the UK’s only remaining “traditional” tramway.
The National Express bus service is an economical way to get around the UK and it offers a very good service. London buses are fast and regular, linking up the capital day and night. There are good bus services in other cities around England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Postbus is a nationwide service of more than 200 routes, mostly in remote areas.
Car hire is easy. All the major companies are represented at airports and in cities around the UK.

United Kingdom Insider Information
• The UK has a proud theatre tradition. London’s West End is the largest theatre district in the world. The reconstructed Shakespeare's Globe on London's Bankside has exhibits, educational programmes, and, of course, an annual season that runs from May to October. In Shakespeare’s Day, the cheap areas of the theatre were filled by “groundlings”, theatre-goers who had paid one penny to watch the performance. These tickets now cost £5. Outside London, the Minack Theatre, an open-air theatre in Cornwall is celebrating its 75th anniversary season with a performance of The Tempest, the play for which the theatre was created.
• Follow the Ridgeway National Trail from Avebury, a stone circle about 5,000 years older than Stonehenge. Unlike Stonehenge, you can wander among the stones. Close to Avebury are the white horses – five large white horses - cut into the chalk downs. The Cerne Giant, in Dorset, is another giant chalk figure. Beside the sea in Cornwall is Tintagel Castle, said to be King Arthur’s birthplace.
• Get a glimpse of the Royal Family (maybe) by visiting Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle, two of the Queen’s official residences. You may spy them at Balmoral in Scotland during the summer months, going to service at Crathie Parish Church on Sunday morning or at the Highland Games in Braemar every September.
• London is an expensive city, but culture vultures can enjoy museums and galleries free of charge. These include the National Gallery, Royal Academy, Tate Britain and Tate Modern, the Imperial War Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. Outside London there are The National Football Museum in Preston; The Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art in Gateshead and the national museums of Scotland and Wales to name just a few.
• Among the top seaside resorts are Whitby, Yorkshire; Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk; Frinton-on-Sea, Essex; Swanage, Dorset; and Sidmouth, Devon.

cheapflights.co.uk

Ten Things To Do In Rwanda

2008-11-12T07:15:00.000-08:00

Rwanda, the land of one thousand hills and 'hundreds attractions' is an extraordinary place where serene scenery and placid people greet you at every juncture. Rwanda is safe and secure with an overwhelming renaissance of Rwandese national pride and cultural reconstruction. It is full of sights and delights, waiting to be explored. If Rwanda is on your travel list there is no better time to runaway to Rwanda...visit today you would want to stay!

The country is well known mostly because of its horrible recent history and you might think that Rwanda should therefore be more the scope for No governmental organization than for travelers. Nowadays, nothing is less true. Rwanda has wonderful people, breathtaking beautiful lakes, challenging mountains, stunning scenery, perfect climate, rare species of apes, excellent roads, express buses, good and cheap food and beer, various accommodation options, fast internet, only few tourists outside the gorilla-homes, you will found it all in Rwanda, a safe and yet to be discovered backpackers haven!

Because of its small size, Rwanda attractions are near each other and can be reached quite easily and safely.

1. KIGALI CITY: A NICE PLACE TO EXPERIENCE AN AFRICAN CAPITAL

Kigali is an interesting mix of rural and urban town overflowing on juxtaposed hilly terrain. New construction is everywhere and large mansions stand side by side with mud brick huts and lean roads. It has a peaceful feel and the center is located upon the hilltop expanse. It feels safe and getting around is easy on foot or minibuses...many and new. For a bit more taxis can whiz you anywhere without breaking the bank. Kigali is a nice place to experience an African capital.

2. KGALI GENOCIDE MEMORIALS CENTER IN GISOZI

During the genocide in Rwanda in 1994, over a million people were murdered. Some 250,000 perished on the streets and in the houses, churches and hospitals of Kigali alone. The Kigali Genocide memorial center contains ten mass graves- a site of burial for almost victims, who were killed in the Kigali region. After the genocide, as mass graves were being discovered around the city. It was decided that a single monument/ burial place should be created, where the victims could be laid to rest with dignity, this is now their final resting place. The memorial houses a childrenâ€™s section, a particularly powerful experience to read about the children- how they lived, and how they died. Amongst other things, it traces how things came to being so bad, how the ideology of genocide emerged, how the tragedy could have been averted, and how the world ignored the signs and warnings repeatedly. Some of the survivors of the genocide have been trained as guides at the center. Open 10am to 5pm daily. Entrance is free but at the door there is a box for donation. The place is really heart breaking!

4. MOUNTAIN GORILLAS TREKKING

A Mountain Gorilla Trekking is the pinnacle of all the wildlife experiences available in Africa and Rwanda is with no doubt the best place for this. People are limited to spend only one hour with the Gorillas and expect to hike for two to four hours to see them. These incredible primates are divided into four groups that have been habituated over the decades; itâ€™s a thing not to miss in Rwanda. Don't miss spending an hour with these magical creatures. It does require planning in advance, and contacting the National Park or a local tour operator to check what the latest system they have implemented with regards to how you get a permit - but it is all worthwhile. Also, don't be put off by the price - a high price is needed to ensure that protecting the gorillas is economically sustainable for the local area.

5. MOUNTAINS CLIMBING

The National park office offers guided climbs to the top of 2 volcano among the 5 of the Virunga chain, Visoke (3711m) and Karisimbi (4705m -the tallest).

The climbs to the summits are not technical and can be done by fit hikers. The scenery is great! However, the trek to Karisimbi's summit is an overnight trek and should be prepared properly.

6. NYUNGWE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

This national park is a preserved part of rain forest which houses 13 species in all, including humankind's closest living relative the chimpanzee, as well as the handsome L'Hoest's monkey and hundred-strong troops of the delightfully acrobatic Angola colombus. The most important ornithological site in Rwanda, Nyungwe harbours almost 300 bird species of which two dozen are restricted to a handful of montane forests on the Albertine Rift. Please come with your car or book a tour with a local tour operator otherwise it is very hard to reach the place and get away. You can camp there and pitch a tent but you have to consider bringing all food and water with you as facilities are limited. The entry fee has recently been increased so check up the actual fares.

7. AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK

Akagera is the best national park of Rwanda - very helpful park-ranger help to find you all animals in park - mainly, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, baboons, buffaloes, hippos and crocodiles.

8. RUSUMO FALLS

Rusumo is a Marvelous and spectacular falls of the Akagera River, a part of the most distant headwaters of the river Nile. The falls is located in the Eastern part of Rwanda at the border with Tanzania.
If you happen to cross the border with Tanzania at Rusumo don't forget to see the Rusumo falls.

9. THE BEAUTIFULLY LAKE KIVU

The beautifully Lake Kivu is a large deposit of fresh water that marks the western border with DR Congo and one of the Great Lakes of Africa. The lake is in the Albertine Rift, a part of the Great Rift Valley. Lake Kivu empties into the Ruzizi River, which flows southwards into Lake Tanganyika. Beneath the lake lie vast reserves of approximately 55 billion cubic of dissolved methane gas which have not been exploited. Lake Kivu is a tourist center, safe to swim (but just ask locally to be completely sure). There are nice beaches, gorgeous landscapes and the sunsets are regularly stunning. There are some excellent places to stay on the Lakeside such as Kibuye and -especially-Gisenyi near the DR Congo border.

10. BUTARE CITY IN HUYE

The most popular tourist attraction in Butare is the superb National Museum, which houses perhaps the finest ethnographic collection in East Africa. The rooms are spacious, without the excessive clutter of distracting memorabilia. This makes the well-labeled exhibits easy to appreciate and enjoy. Absorbing displays of traditional artefacts are illuminated by a fascinating selection of turn-of-the-century monochrome photographs, providing insight not only into pre-colonial lifestyles, but also into the subsequent development of Rwanda as a modern African state. Here the Intore dancers can be commissioned to perform, but this is not a good deal for a single traveler. If a group is present the price would definitely be worthwhile as shows are few and far between.

by: Ken Ndayis

Tips For Flying Standby?

2008-11-12T07:12:00.000-08:00

If you travel a lot or you haven't traveled before, you may still be familiar with the term "flying standby". Flying standby is a term the airline industry uses when a traveler wants to fly on a flight with an open seat. Travelers that usually purchase a ticket the day of will usually have to fly standby if there a limit number of tickets available.

If you find yourself flying standby in the future, there are a few tips you can follow in order to make the trip at the airport a lot easier.

Don't check your luggage

If you're flying standby, don't check in your luggage. A lot of the times an airline will look for people that have carry on only. If you have checked in luggage, it's just going to be a bigger hassle for the airliner to find your luggage and throw it on the plane. If you just bring carry on luggage, you're going to increase your chances of getting on the flight.

Early flights work

If you can get to the airport early, you'll find that earlier flights are usually easier to get on since many people technically don't travel early in the morning. If you find yourself traveling in the afternoon, this is peak traveling time and you may find that the flights are going to busier compared to the mornings.

Try calling the airline's customer service department

Before you make the trip to the airport, check with the airline before hand and see if there are flights available that you can possibly standby for. Most of the times, the airline will be friendly and give you some flights that you can possibly fly standby on. If you do find that airline you call doesn't have a standby flight available, try and call other airlines to see if they have possible solutions.

Stay at the gate

It's important that you stay near the gate when you're on the standby list. If you tend to walk away during the time when the flight is about to be boarded, you may find that the employee tried to call your name. Sometimes, you're not the only one on the list. This is why it's important that you stay nearby so that if your name is called, you can be there to get on the flight as soon as possible.

You may find that most of these tips will help you in your standby success. If you find that the situation is too stressful, always remember that it's best to be patient. When flights generally board, you will find that most employees are pretty stressful during this time. Always remember to treat others as you want to be treated. Trust me, the employees will keep note of this and will treat you a little nicer than the other customer is furious with the staff. If you keep your head on your shoulders and have a lot of patience, flying standby should be a piece of pie.

by: Tom Tessin

USA and travel guide

2008-11-12T06:53:00.000-08:00

Reasons to fly to USA

The USA stretches across the middle of North America - 48 states on the mainland, Hawaii to the southwest and Alaska jutting out into the Pacific, Bering Sea and Arctic Ocean. US territories include American Samoa, Guam, Marianas, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.
Breathtaking natural wonders are matched by the manmade cities of towering steel and sparkling glass that seem to move at a hundred miles an hour.
The country is diverse and given its popularity as a tourist destination, there is no shortage of cheap flights to the USA. New England is steeped in history and beautiful scenery (think the autumn colours in Massachusetts, New Hampshire or Vermont) while the Mid-Atlantic contains the metropolis of New York City as well as rolling mountains and traditional seaside resorts in New Jersey and Delaware.
The South (including the states of Louisiana and Mississippi) is lush and green with a feed-stomach-and-soul approach to life.
Florida is famous for its beaches and theme parks such as Disney World and, in Orlando, Universal Studios and SeaWorld. Another tourist favourite, California offers a rugged northern coastline, snowy Sierra Nevada mountains, Napa Valley vineyards and the megalopolis of Los Angeles / San Diego, all with a relaxed West-Coast vibe.

USA Climate

The climate varies throughout the US depending on the time of year. Generally, the US has four seasons - winter, spring, summer and fall - but some regions of the country don't experience the changing seasons as intensely as other regions.The West Coast has pleasant sunny weather year-round while the Pacific Northwest Coast (Washington, Oregon) experiences cool summers and mild winters. The midwest region experiences intense summers and winters and due to the state's location in the middle of the country, tornadoes and thunderstorms are frequent. The East Coast experiences fluctuating seasons. Florida has the warmest winters on the eastern seaboard. Before you book US flights to specific states, make sure to check the weather in that area. Cheap US flights are always found during off-season travel times in various states.

When to Fly to USA

Peak Season:
There is not really a bad time to visit the US, but New York is nicest in the spring and autumn. May and June have the most comfortable hot weather. For visiting Los Angeles, August and September are the hottest months.
San Francisco is an all-year-round type of place with warm temperatures. Las Vegas is best experienced during spring and autumn. Orlando is a family favourite. Its best months are July and August coincide with school holidays (and higher-priced Orlando flights), although temperatures can climb to 37 degrees Celsius.

Getting Around USA

The car is king in America, but there are dozens of low-cost airlines including Southwest, the granddaddy of all the no-frillers, JetBlue, AirTran and Spirit Airlines to name just a few.
Rent a car and take to the open road, Route 66, and all that. The major car rental outfits all have a presence at most US airports including Budget, Dollar, Hertz, Thrifty, AAA Rent-A-Car and Payless. Your arrival airport will generally have this information.
By bus: GotoBus.com sells line run bus tickets and tours throughout the States. Travellers can search by destination and compare all the options for a given route from one screen. The site sells tickets for more than 100 bus companies ranging from low-fare to luxury.
By rail: AmTrak covers the States and Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal in Canada. See where you can ride the rails, and check for weekly specials.

USA Insider Information
•New York is a Mecca for shoppers. To make the most of your time there, book a tour of one of the shopping districts. Shop Gotham runs two-hour walking tours from about $25 (about £14), which have been described as like having a knowledgeable (and shopaholic) friend to tell you the latest retail gossip and coolest places to shop.
• There's no need to feel lost in Los Angeles. Purple People Greeters answer questions, provide directions, make referrals or even call the police if things go awry. They're easy to spot. The Greeters travel in pairs, wear purple teeshirts with “District Safety” or “Downtown Guide”, and can be visited at their Service Center at 801 S Hill St.
• Feed your inner vulture some culture. The San Francisco Conservatory of Music presents hundreds of recitals and concerts by students, faculty and guest artists each year. Most of the performances are free.
• Orlando - there's not a giant mouse in sight in Harry P. Leu Gardens, 50 acres of lush vegetation in the middle of the city. There is also a restored farmhouse which harks back to a time when space travel was barely imaginable and citrus, not theme parks, was king. The gardens are open every day, from 9am to 5pm. Adults pay $5, school children pay $1, and Monday mornings are free (excluding tour groups).
• Las Vegas - eat well and save money by starting the day with an all-you-can-eat buffet. The Spice Market Buffet at the Aladdin Resort & Casino, a “killer whale in a sea of buffets”.
• Whatever you do, don't forget to tip. Between 15 and 20 per cent is acceptable. Angry waiters have been known to follow customers onto the street to ask why they did not leave more money.

Cheapflight.co.uk

Travel Cheap But Don’t Be Cheap

2008-11-12T03:57:00.000-08:00

Remember those halcyon days when all you needed for the best six week holiday of your life was a couple of quid for can of coke and all the Space Invaders you could eat? Me too. But I’ve got some news for you people. Space Invaders aren’t 10p anymore and grown up holidays are far more expensive then school holidays. So how do you make the most of those four weeks off a year without ending up pooling your change for pickled onion ‘potato’ snacks when you get back? Read our guide to holidaying on the cheap, packed full of money saving tips with an absolute minimum of embarrassing scrimping, and find out.

Don’t trust anyone about travel insurance

Never, ever tick those boxes that say ‘add cheap travel insurance’ when you book a flight, train ticket or hotel. It is highly unlikely that this option will be the best for you in terms of either price or cover. These boxes generally offer extremely limited cover at bumped up prices, and take advantage of the fact that £3.95 each way doesn’t sound unreasonable for ‘complete piece of mind’.

Remember that many of the so-called benefits of these polices will already be covered through your statutory rights, especially if you take the added precaution of booking with a credit card. If you are holidaying in the EU then an E111 form will also give you free basic medical cover. If you are going to book travel insurance then use an online comparison site, get lots of different quotes, and make sure that the policy actually offers you a useful and realistic level of cover.

Don’t raid the mini bar

We all know that Kit-Kats taste better when you’ve just paid £2 for them, but there is no need to for such extravagance when there is a Spar on the corner of every street in the world. Stock up on drinks and snacks before you get to your hotel room, and if you must nick stuff from the bar then choose the easily replaceable stuff and buy new ones to pop back in the next morning.

Monday is free day

Many countries offer free admission to museums, galleries and exhibitions on Mondays so make sure that you take advantage. If you fancy a cultural weekend away then you may be better off taking-off on the Sunday to ensure you can enjoy this cultural bonanza gratis.

Lunch is cheaper than dinner

Restaurants are harder to fill in the day than in the evening, so it is inevitably cheaper to lunch than to dine. This is especially true if you plan to eat in the posher parts of town, and is a great way to save money while living like a king.

Sack off the transfer

There are two problems with airport transfers. Firstly, you are invariably met by a fat, ridiculously moustached man holding a small piece of cardboard with Smith spelt phonetically. Not cool. And secondly, these things cost a fortune. You may be knackered after a long flight, and we all know how awkward it is lugging three suitcases onto a busy city bus. But no one should be paying the cost of the flight again just to get to their hotel.

by: Robert Wood

Bali

2008-11-12T03:53:00.000-08:00

Lush and languid, Bali beguiles with its beach-side charms.

Bali is so picturesque that you could be fooled into thinking it was a painted backdrop: rice paddies trip down hillsides like giant steps, volcanoes soar through the clouds, the forests are lush and tropical, and the beaches are lapped by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.
Recent tragic events have scared away many of those who simply saw Bali as a place for cheap beer. While the Bintang is still tasty and plentiful, Bali's temples, ceremonies, beaches, mountains and passion for life are undiminished and more easily enjoyed than ever.

Travel Warning: Check Before You Leave

High level terrorism-related warnings have been issued by Western governments concerning travel in Indonesia, including Bali. Travellers are advised to check with their local embassy or travel advisory for up-to-date information before making travel plans. Terrorist bombings aimed at tourists took place in 2002 and 2005 and although it is normally safe, the island could be a target in the future.

Getting There

Most international visitors arrive by air, either directly or via Jakarta, though island hoppers can catch frequent ferries from the neighbouring islands of Java and Lombok. There are direct flights to Jakarta and Bali from major airline hubs in Asia such as Singapore, Bangkok and Hong Kong. There are direct flights from major Australian cities. The departure tax on international flights is about US$10.00 . Bali is well connected to most of Indonesia and has direct domestic flights to Java, Lombok and outlying islands on a daily basis. Fares have increased considerably in recent years but are still good value. Domestic departure tax is US$2.00 Transport from Ngurah Rai international airport, 2.5km (1.5mi) south of Kuta, is quite simple. Pay a set price at the airport taxi counter, or walk across the airport car park and hail a metered cab outside the airport's roadway exit. The impecunious (and lightly laden) can walk straight up the road to Kuta, although it's a more pleasant stroll along the beach. A ferry shuttles constantly between the western Balinese port of Gilimanuk and Ketapang in eastern Java. Boat/bus combination tickets between Denpasar and Javanese cities can be purchased. Ferries between the eastern Balinese port of Padangbai and Lembar on the west coast of Lombok depart throughout the day. A few ferries link Bali with other Indonesian islands.

Getting Around

The main forms of public transport on Bali are the cheap buses and bemos that run on more or less set routes within or between towns. If you want your own transport, you can charter a bemo or rent a car, motorcycle or bicycle. The Balinese drive on the left, use their horns a lot and give way to traffic pulling onto the road. Tourist shuttle buses, running between the major tourist centres, are more expensive than public transport but are also more comfortable and convenient.

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