Tourism Around The Globe

Quite an Experience in Amish Country Indiana

2009-09-20T09:46:00.000-07:00

Anyone who is not from the Midwestern United States probably has not seen a lot of Amish country citizens. In fact, a pal of mine from Australia recently told me that Amish citizens are more legendary than factual where she’s from; they’re like leprechauns or unicorns. Not so in the state of Indiana! Indiana is full of the wealthy legacy that comes from the Amish. Just take a tour to Nappanee, Middlebury, or Shipshewana.

When you first drive into the township of Nappanee, Indiana, you will observe the 19th century storefronts, filled with bakeries, great family restaurants, and even home decorating boutique stores. A mix of a active business district and serene countryside, Nappanee was once called one of “America’s Best Small Towns” by TIME magazine. You won’t wish to ignore some of their most famous attractions like Amish Acres Farm and Heritage Resort. Roam the grounds of the 80-acre farm and experience all the wealthy history that they boast to offer. All ages will adore the big family meals, cart rides, and witnessing first hand the manufacture of brooms, quilts, and much more! If you’re looking for a more romantic evening, there is an on hand romance option at Amish Acres starting at $179.00! chart your journey now and stay awhile.

Related: Indiana Amish furniture

Middlebury is one of the lesser-known towns when it comes to Amish communities, but there is still a lot to observe and experience when you visit. Take a tour to the historic business district and see the town butcher, the hardware store, and other proud shop owners. Also, don’t fail to remember to make the journey down the 17-mile Pumpkinvine Nature Trail, taking you right through the center of town along Krider Gardens and crossing the Little Elkhart River.

One of the most famous Amish places is Shipshewana. Experience Amish traditions like you never have before, when you visit more than 95 specialty shops in the busy village of Shipshewana. Home of the Midwest’s largest flea market, this town has everything to offer from horse and buggy rides through town and into the countryside, to awesome entertainment choices such as the Mousetrap Puppet Theater, the Blue Gate Theater, and the Hostetler Hudson Auto Museum. You can also find out the reasons behind the Amish and Mennonite lifestyle by visiting Menno-Hof. understanding their entire story by hearing the charming history of their origins in Switzerland, their arrival to America so many years ago, and their present location in Indiana. Start planning your journey today and benefit from learning about a culture so different from our own, as you head into Amish Country.

by: Sean Hess

India Tour-The Enchanting Moment of Lifetime

2009-09-17T20:01:00.000-07:00

India is one of the most beautiful tourism destinations of the world. It is the land of cultural diversity, exotic natural beauty, colorful fairs and festivals, simmering golden desert, palm fringed beaches, picturesque lakes, white ice capped mountains, irresistible wildlife, architectural excellence etc. Infact it is one of the best place on the earth to enjoy the holidays in the most splendor way with the beauty of this globally famous destination. What makes this continent such a special country in the world is because it stands unity in Diversity? Millions of tourists from all over the world come to this geographically blessed country to enjoy their holidays. It is the generosity and nobility of the Indian people that they have preserved the beauty of their motherland till date. Visit once to this globally famous destination and you will be allured with the charming beauty of this beautiful continent

India is globally renowned for its architectural excellence, exotic flora & fauna, irresistible wildlife and scintillating natural beauty. Over all we can say that it is the best place to make some immortal memories to cherish throughout lifetime. Some of the most beautiful place to visit in this country are- Rajasthan-the Golden state, Kerala- the god’s own country, Jammu & Kashmir- the paradise on Earth, Goa-the carnival state, Himachal Pradesh and Darjeeling-the queen of hill stations. These famous destinations are famous for the scenic beauty and cultural heritage.

Rajasthan famous for its architectural beauty is one of the most visited tourist destination from tourists all over the world. It is the place where the sagas of the chivalrous kings are sung in the melodious tune. Jaipur-the pink city, Jodhpur- the blue city, Jaisalmer- the prince city, Agra-the land of Taj Mahal, Bikaner, Kota are the most beautiful tourism places in Rajasthan. Jaipur is the heart of Rajasthan and it is the must visit destination of Golden traiangle tours. Agra with its architectural excellence catches the attention of tourists from every corner of the world. The beauty of Taj Mahal not only captivates visitors but also mesmerize them with its tempting look. Some of the most beautiful destinations to visit in this kingly state are Amber Fort, City palace, Maherangarh Fort, Ummaid Bhavan, Sajjangarh Fort, Pichola Lake, Sagar Fateh lake, Saheliyon Ki Bari, Jantar Mantar and Hawa Mahal-the palaces of wind.

Apart from the architectural beauty of Rajasthan visitors can also enjoy the rich varied beauty of flora and fauna. Kerala is geographically blessed with scintillating natural beauty; palm fringed beaches, picturesque backwaters, spice fields, emerald paddy fields and many other eyes catching natural beauty. This God’s own country is paradise for honeymoon couples, nature lovers and holiday makers. Its irresistible houseboat tour gives great pleasure to visitors to enjoy their tour in the most splendor way. Enjoying houseboat tour over the placid backwaters of Kerala is one of the best moments of visit to India.

Furthermore the carnival state is the paradise for beach lovers. Well I am talking about Goa which is the best place to enjoy the beauty of beach in the most splendor way. Beaches of Goa offer superb view and it allures visitors with its glittering water. One can never escape to enjoy the beauty that is so irresistible and magnetizing. Visitors can make merry time playing the beach sports, sipping the natures best nature, sun bath sitting under palm tree, walk with your beloved holding hand in hand etc. You can also enjoy angling in the pristine beaches of Goa. Visit once and is sure you will fall in love with its mesmerizing beauty of beaches.

There are many captivating destinations suitable blended for tourists to make the most of with their India tours package. Book any budget tour package and explore the beauties that are so captivating and fascinating. Once you visit India a globally famous country you will have innumerable magical moments to cherish throughout your life.

by: Ram Sagar

Moving Around in Melbourne – Resources & Tips for Melbourne Tours

2009-09-10T09:53:00.000-07:00

Melbourne - a truly warm and welcoming city for visitors is Australia’s second largest city and the capital city of the state of Victoria. Melbourne is Australia’s undisputed capital for – events, sports, cultural activities and fine restaurants. A business centre and home to several major corporations, this city is also popular for exciting travel destinations. Here are a few places you cannot afford to miss out when you are in Melbourne

• Dandenong Ranges
• Yarra River
• Phillip Island
• Great Ocean Road
• Sovereign Hill

The above is not a comprehensive list and you may find a month too less to experience the true spirit of Melbourne! But if you cannot spare so much of time and still want to make the most out of your visit, then make sure to plan your tour well.

A few tips to make your tour in Melbourne as hassle-free and convenient as possible:

If you are planning to visit places surrounding Melbourne, hiring a car would (arguably) be the best mode of transport for you. For someone in a bit of a hurry, this gives an easy and fast access to places around Melbourne.

Planning to roam in the heart of Melbourne? Take a ride on the City Circle Tram. You’ll have the liberty to get on and off at any designated stop - ABSOLUTELY FREE! For those who want to see a ‘quixotic’ Melbourne, classic horse-and-carriage ride is the best option. It’s a romantic way to travel around Melbourne, with your loved ones (or alone, whichever you prefer!).

To make the best out of the visit and to ensure that you don’t miss out anything, it is best advised to go for tour packages made available by several tour operators in Melbourne. Travel companies such as Australian Pacific Touring offer affordable packages for day tours in Melbourne as well as other popular tourist destinations in Australia. Try visiting their website to learn more about how you can make your visit to Melbourne a memorable experience – www.australiasightseeing.com

by: Jake Marshall

Short Stay Apartments in Melbourne

2009-09-01T09:56:00.000-07:00

You need short stay apartments during your Melbourne stay. Although luxury hotels in Melbourne are a popular accommodation option in such cases, but nowadays the concept of short stay apartment and serviced apartments are being popular and perfect alternative of luxury hotel’s accommodation. This is also a cost effective option of accommodation in Melbourne with all the comfort and luxuries like a five star hotel room.

Why You Need Short Stay Apartments in Melbourne

Melbourne is a popular city of Australia. It has worldwide recognition due to the presence of global business and corporate houses. Being an important seaport of Australia, it is also a major centre of import and export. As a business owner or corporate executive you may get chances of visiting Melbourne very often. However, the city of Melbourne is also very popular for tourism and vacation purposes. So, you may consider this an option for luxury vacation this summer.

Well whatever is the reason behind visiting Melbourne, you will need proper accommodation here. Well, the city has several options for accommodation ranging from luxury five star hotels, to short stay serviced apartments, vacation homes, and tourist hostels. That means you don’t need to worry about your accommodation while in Melbourne.

Diverse Accommodation Options in Different Areas of Melbourne

During your Melbourne stay, you will come to know that serviced apartments and all other luxury accommodation options are not saturated to any specific location of Melbourne. You will find them spread all over the city. If you are coming for business reasons, it’s obvious that you will prefer renting an apartment in Central Business District of Melbourne, so that you do not have to spend more time in travelling from your short stay apartment to the business location of your interest.

However, if you are in Melbourne for personal reasons like tourism or vacation, then it will be better if you choose a seaside apartment overlooking the picturesque beaches of Melbourne. It will keep you close to the hotspots for tourist’s interest.

One thing that is relaxing for people visiting Melbourne is the presence of ample transportation facilities. Even though, you should give a serious thought to selecting a serviced apartment from well connected areas of Melbourne. To avoid last minute availability problems, you should reserve your apartment well in advance before visiting Melbourne.

by: Alex Berg

Things To Do In And Around Melbourne #6 :: Mornington Peninsula

2009-08-29T10:00:00.000-07:00

Melbourne is the capital of Victoria, Australia. Melbourne offers great shopping and dining and Victoria has got a beautiful countryside and coast line combining beautiful national and state parks with quiet little towns and some larger regional centres. The Mornington Peninsula is a great area offering beaches and stunning bay views, golf courses, vineyards and shopping. Whatever you want, the peninsula has got it all.

The Mornington Peninsula is a prime spot for holiday makers. But it is close enough to Melbourne for weekend getaways or daytrips as well.

How To Get To The Mornington Peninsula

The Mornington Peninsula can be roughly characterised as anything south of Frankston.

Frankston is only about an hour's drive away from the Melbourne CBD. Especially now that CityLink and EastLink are established, the drive to the peninsula takes no time at all. Be aware though that the roads around Frankston get very busy in weekends and during the daily commuting hours.

You can avoid some of that frustration by taking a little more scenic drive. This leads via Beach Road which offers bay views as you drive through the Bayside towns of Brighton, Black Rock, Hampton upto Mordialloc, where you then take the Nepean Highway further down towards Frankston. You can also take the Nepean Highway straight out of the city towards Frankston.

When you are driving back from the Mornington Peninsula the drive down the Nepean Highway on a sunny late afternoon is definitely worth it. Especially the drive into Frankston down Oliver's Hill can be great. From the top of Oliver's Hill you can get beautiful bay views and, on clear days, a good view of the Melbourne CBD.

Portsea and Sorrento

When you are into luxury and have got money to spend Portsea and Sorrento are the places to go. Millon-dollar holiday houses offering bay views is what it is all about in this part of town!

With the bay often not more than a stroll away, you can have a beautiful time in and around the water.

Flinders

Flinders is on the other side of the Mornington Peninsula. It is a nice quiet little town with a lovely beach, some dining opportunities and quite some antiques shops. When you are into antiques, then also make sure to visit nearby Tyabb.

Red Hill

Not far away from Flinders is Red Hill. There are some great wineries with excellent bay views, some art galleries, a beer brewery, cheese and berry farms etc. All what is great about local produce can be found there. You should definitely take the opportunity to try some of the wines at any of the vineyards or some of the local food. Many vineyards also have excellent lunch and/or dining facilities. There are about 200 Mornington Peninsula vineyards. Although it is probably not good for your health and wallet to visit all of them, definitely go visit a few to get a true feel for what the peninsula has to offer!

Mornington

Mornington is a lovely town with a decent shopping strip and of course, beaches galore. You can enjoy a great play in the park with the kids or dine at a number of fine restaurants.

When mentioning a number of towns on the peninsula there is the invariable injustice to the towns not mentioned. Take Arthur's Seat up in the hills or any of the small coastal towns like Ballnarring Beach, Dromana and Rosebud.

Living very close to the Mornington Peninsula one of my favourite things to do on a Sunday afternoon is to take a drive with the family on one of the backroads. You pass a few wineries, have a quiet lunch somewhere or take a picknick, stop at a beach for a play, etc. Before you know it your afternoon is over and you are fully recharged. The peninsula is just the best place to unwind from it all.

No matter what you are looking for in terms of a vacation, there is a good chance that the Mornington Peninsula has it.

by: Dominique Vangheel

Please Your Partner With New York Limousine City Ride

2009-08-16T10:02:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for an innovative way to please your girlfriend this weekend?

Are you planning a romantic evening with your spouse on her birthday?

Do you want to celebrate your wedding anniversary in exclusive way?

If you are really planning anyone of earlier said things, you need to consider my suggestion of hiring a limousine for such occasions. Yes New York City rides in a luxury limousine are the best way to spend a romantic evening. Nobody will forget such a wonderful evening.

Well the question arises that why a limousine for a date or perfect evening? Yes it’s true that there are other ways to celebrate any occasion, but you can spice up your celebration by including a luxury limousine ride. It might be only for point to point transfer (like from your home to the restaurant where you booked a table for both of you, or the theatre where you planned to watch a play).

It’s a well known fact that women love luxury and they are slave of styles and fashion. Therefore nothing can be a better treatment for her than a perfect evening with limousine city rides, combined with a romantic movie/play followed by a candle light dinner in a popular restaurant with lovely ambience.

Even if you are not having any plans for dinner or movie and you just want to spend an evening with your partner, then also a limousine city ride will be the perfect option. Just imagine the level of excitement that will be reflected on your partners face when you will pick her up in a luxury stretch limousine before heading towards the beautiful beaches or naturally beautiful spots of Staten Island. You can enjoy ultimate level of privacy with all possible luxuries inside a limousine.

New York Limousine service providers are always a step ahead in providing luxurious travelling services. There are numerous hot-spots in New York City and people love to be escorted in a plush limousine to their desired destination. It provides a different kind of identity to them, a sense of exclusiveness, royalty, and self confidence overpowers people if they travel by a luxury limousine.

by: Pitter Smith

Philadelphia Travel Guide

2009-08-09T11:09:00.000-07:00

Philadelphia is a city dear to the hearts of Americans because of its early role in as a history maker. Philadelphia is the “cradle of the nation” located between Boston and Washington, DC in Pennsylvania’s southeast region. The Delaware River borders Philadelphia as does the Schuylkill River. The signing of the Declaration of Independence, on 4 July 1776, took place in Philadelphia’s Independence Hall.

Activity holiday tours arranged by local tour operators offer the best of Philadelphia – a productive and progressive industrial and commercial centre. Industries besides oil processing include electrical, chemical, printing and publishing. Philadelphia’s cultural heritage lies in its many theatres, concert halls, libraries and museums. It is a university town, as well as the home of the Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra, recognised worldwide as one of the finest orchestras in the world.

Activity holiday enthusiasts who travel on tours to Philadelphia find the most affordable tours are found by contacting local tour operators. Local tour operators have access to low cost airfares and accommodation. Philadelphia means “city of brotherly love” and yet it is where the Revolutionary War began, which led to the unification of the colonies into a single nation.

Activity holiday tours in Philadelphia may include the American Music Theatre, site of operas, music drama, musical comedy and experimental work and cabaret productions. The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts Museum displays many contemporary works by American artists including Andy Warhol.

The museums and cultural centres in Philadelphia number far more than one can visit in a few days. Tourists on activity holiday tours of Philadelphia choose sites to visit based on personal preference. However, it is in the Old City where one discovers the story of the city and its role in American history.

Philadelphia offers many restaurants, shopping malls and entertainment facilities where visitors will find delicious food and drinks, trendy apparel, nightclubs and sports and health facilities.

A number of do-it-yourself tours designed by local tour operators include the most popular sights and www.puretravel.com features tours. See Philadelphia at your own pace. The walking tours through Fairmont Park, the city centre and the Old City lead to interesting and entertaining sites. Walking tours along the waterfront are relaxing and allow time for communing with nature.

Downtown walking tours lead to Point State Park, Heinz Hall for Performing Arts and Bessemer Court at Station Square. Here you can browse through a shopping centre for elegant and expensive tastes. A riverside walk leads to interesting industrial remnants and market shops.

Philadelphia International Airport serves the largest metropolitan area in the United States. It is approximately 11 kilometres from downtown Philadelphia and is accessible by car, taxi, bus or train service. There are seven terminals, with Concourses A-W located within the terminals. The airport provides air service to 32.2 million passengers annually, four million of which are international passengers.

Philadelphia International Airport offers restaurants serving delicious food and drinks and has many retail shops and with economical pricing. Interesting and eye-catching artwork decks the walls of the airport. Volunteers assisting passengers are friendly and readily available throughout the airport. A special hospitality service cares for passengers stranded by flight delays or cancellations.

by: Julie Bowman

Yosemite Visit To-See List by: Shawn Collin Yosemite National Park is probably one of the most popular parks in the world. Found on the Sierra Nev

2009-08-05T11:13:00.000-07:00

Yosemite National Park is probably one of the most popular parks in the world. Found on the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Central California, tourists worldwide visit Yosemite Valley for the beautiful sights and the magnificent natural attractions. Here are a few attractions you’ll see at Yosemite National Park.

One of Yosemite’s major attractions is El Capitan. El Capitan is a granite wall which rises nearly 4000 feet above Yosemite’s floor. El Capitan is the largest granite slab on earth which is exposed. Climbers all over the world will enjoy climbing El Capitan. Tourists would usually spot climbers working their way up this magnificent rock.

Another tourist attraction is Glacier Point. It is probably the most breathtaking overlooks on Yosemite and probably one of the most magnificent in the world. This is a must visit when you’re at Yosemite National Park. Not only will you sit 3,300 feet above Yosemite’s valley floor, but you will also get a bird’s eye view of most of the park’s attractions.

The Half Dome in summer is one of the popular tourist destinations and is one of the most famous spots at Yosemite. Climbers work their way up this 2000 foot face which takes them more or less 7 hours. It is one of the toughest rock climbing challenges on earth. You could also hike around its back side to reach the summit.

Another destination at Yosemite that attracts climbers worldwide is Sentinel Rock. Sentinel Rock sits close to another popular destination, Yosemite Falls. Yosemite falls is the highest in North America and is the fifth largest waterfalls on the planet. The best time to visit is spring through early summer. During winter, the waterfalls create pieces of ice which crash and create noises that sound like thunder.

One other prominent waterfall in Yosemite is Bridalveil Falls which stands 620 feet high.

Vernal Fall and Mist Trail are other popular sites at the park. This series of sites is one of the most popular destinations tourists visit. It features a hike which starts at Happy Isles, then a climb at Mist Trail beside the beautiful Merced River to Vernal Fall, which has a 330 foot drop.

Tunnel View is another major attraction at Yosemite. You will get a complete view of El Capitan, Sentinel Rock, Half Dome, Bridalveil Falls and a lot of other attractions. Tunnel View is considered one of the most photographed places in the planet.

These attractions are probably the most glorious and breathtaking destinations you’ll set your eyes on. These are but a few Yosemite has to offer. Here in Yosemite, one will definitely appreciate nature’s beauty and bow down to its splendor.

by: Shawn Collin

Famous People of Switzerland

2009-07-30T11:16:00.000-07:00

A city home to the most extravagant lifestyles, rich heritage and culture, Switzerland is also home to several famous people who are known all over the world. The city of secretive bank accounts and low-tax magnet continues to lure celebrities in the elite world of show business, politics, business royalty and finance. Some celebrities include singer-songwriters Phil Collins and Shania Twain and singer-actress Tina turner. These people live in Switzerland.

Phil Collins

Since 1994, Phil Collins has made Switzerland his home. He is famous in the music industry and has proved himself to be a legend of music. Although he was born in London, he chose to permanently stay in Switzerland. He found his peace in this beautiful country and decided to build his future in Switzerland. Phil Collins met his wife, Orianne Crevey, an interpreter during one of his trips.

The couple lived in the Hermance, one of the suburbs of Geneva, before moving to a bigger place in Canton of Vaud. This is where they continue to live, with their two children. Their wedding was held at the Beau Rivage Palace of Ouchy in Lausanne.

Shania Twain

Shania Twain started becoming famous during the late 90’s with her songs. One of her albums that were produced sold 11 million copies worldwide. This made her a world renowned singer and made her attract millions of fans. She lives in Geneva, Switzerland, together with her husband Matt Langer, who is also her producer. They live on a 19th century manor on the shores of Lake Geneva. Before moving there, they lived in a house in New York City. Today, Shania and her husband record new albums on a studio near their house.

Tina Turner

Tina Turner is one of the legends in terms of music. This American singer has permanently lived in Zurich since 1986, on the most fashionable district of Switzerland. She started performing in night clubs and was discovered by his manager, Roger Davies. In 1997, a North American tour made her on the top of the billboard charts again. She lives in an extravagant villa in Zurich with her Swiss businessman husband. Back in July, year 2000, she announced that she was ending her stage music career. However, it was not limited to other stage performances especially for charities.

Artists, writers, music stars, movie stars, painters, philosophers, dancers and businessmen have chosen to live in Switzerland. Other artists who lived in Switzerland include George Harrison, Roger Moore and Audrey Hepburn. For so many reasons, Switzerland is the best country to live in. It is known to be a significant financial center in the whole world, asking for one of the lowest taxes and catering the best government services. Aside from these, it has a blessed location amidst beautiful greeneries. Fresh air is found here, unlike other developed countries. The shopping destinations, the nightlife and the historical backgrounds are astonishing. All of these are reasons why celebrities flock Switzerland and choose to permanently live in this beautiful country.

by: Rene Murmann

Understanding Who Is Responsible For What At An Airport

2009-07-25T09:49:00.000-07:00

Air travellers are so concerned with their travel plans that they rarely give a second thought to who is responsible for what at the airport. In fact, most travellers seem to think that an airport is operated by one big company which is responsible for everything from security and parking to baggage handling and duty free. However, in reality, things are not as they seem and it is usually only when you have a complaint to make that it becomes apparent that things are very different.

Each airport – buildings and land – is usually owned by one company or jointly by a group of companies, which runs the day-to-day administrative operations of the airport. In fact, of the number of employees working at an airport, the actual airport operator is usually only responsible for the direct employment of around ten percent of those workers.

The airport makes its money by charging airlines for using the airport and contracts out many of the day-to-day operations to specialist companies.

To examine who is responsible for what let’s start with your arrival at the airport.

Airport parking

If you are driving to the airport you are going to need airport parking, of which there are many types: on-site short- or long-stay, off-site and meet and greet parking. Whichever type of on-site parking you are using, you will find that, in most cases, the airport operator has subcontracted the on-site airport parking operations to a specialist company. Off-site and meet and greet parking are generally operated by independent companies. Any complaints or questions should be directed to the car park operators.

Reduced mobility services

In July 2008, new EU regulations introduced at all EU airports gave disabled and elderly passengers the same access rights as all other passengers. Airport operators now have the full responsibility to provide reduced mobility services to passengers. Contact your airline at the time of booking to arrange these services.

Check-in

Your airline is responsible for check-in and baggage drop-off. Check-in times are set by your airline and are dependent on the route. To find out the earliest and latest check-in times check your flight confirmation details, or the airline’s website – the answer should quite easily be found, possibly in the FAQ section.

Baggage handling

Although your airline has ultimate responsibility for your luggage, airlines contract out their baggage handling to specialist baggage-handling companies which are responsible for the handling of your luggage right through to its destination.

If you have a question about luggage, including lost luggage you should contact your airline.

With regard to weight restrictions, size and amount of luggage, these are set by your airline and do vary from airline to airline and travel class, so check your airline’s website for their allowances.

Rules governing restricted items in both hand and checked-in baggage are set by the Department for Transport (DfT), although your airline may also have set its own rules in addition to the DfT’s rules. A list of prohibited items will be found on the DfT’s website and also on your airline’s and airport’s websites. Baggage queries should be directed to your airline.

Security checks

Security checks are conducted by specialist companies contracted by the airport authority.

Shopping, food and duty free

The airport authority rents out retail units, restaurants and food outlets in much the same way as shops are rented out on the high street on in a shopping mall. Complaints and questions about stock, menus etc should be directed to the specific retailer.

Duty free limits are set by HM Customs and Excise and can be found on many airport sites in addition to the HM Customs and Excise website.

Boarding your aircraft

Your airline is responsible for passenger boarding, passenger safety and onboard catering facilities.

Air traffic control

National Air Traffic Services (NATS) is responsible for air traffic control.

by: Paula Garrett

10 Luggage Tips for Travelers

2009-07-21T10:00:00.000-07:00

Carrying luggage have been a troublesome task to any traveler. But before whining about this daunting task, always remember that this is one of the most important things beside our plane ticket!

Everybody loves to have vacation and traveling from one place to another give anyone interesting ideas to relax and enjoy the holiday break. However when it come to luggage and other stuff needed to spend the holiday most of our faces grumble on managing them into our bags! Here are some helpful tips you can have to leave trouble out of your miserable packing experience.

1. Before boarding the plane check the maximum luggage size allowed, then buy it.

Most of us who likes to travel wants to reduce the size of our bags and other luggage. Ironically this is a disadvantage especially if your traveling overseas. Why not take the advantage of the maximum luggage dimension in case you need to pack some items and other goodies back to your home. This way you no longer need to buy an extra bag to put those things in.

2. This is a bit tricky! Wear as much clothes as you can, especially the bulkiest of them all!

Wear clothes like coats, jeans, boots and any other things that are thick and heavy this would reduce luggage space and weight. However if your destination is a tropical country, this is a bad idea. If you don't want to mess up your fashion statement I guess you have to make way for those clothes.

3. Making a list of your luggage is a must have!

This is a task you can do perfectly all the time and every time you go abroad. When you go home and unpacked things you didn't use, just cross it out! And take note of the things you didn't use so you'll have an idea on what things to bring or not on your next trip.

4. Buying things in your destination would greatly reduce the space of your luggage.

Basic things are always available in your destination, you will probably have time to shop in the area, basic things like toothbrush, soap, tissues and any other personal hygiene materials. Now if you are into souvenir shops and brought limited number of shirts, buy specialized shirts in the area which will eventually be in your memorabilia on your trip abroad.

5. Pour Toiletries into smaller bottles

For necessary Toiletries, get rid of family sized bottles and dispense what you need to smaller bottles. This will save you a lot of luggage space and it will also greatly reduce the weight you need to carry during transport. Take note, if you ran out there is always an option to buy for a refill.

6. Rolling our Clothes

This is an old trick! It is not magic nor anything performed by David Blane. Instead of folding your clothes try rolling them, why? It is easier to pack clothes into corners and prevents creases created by folding.

7. Wearing Clothes with lots of pockets.

Well world war is over and Nam has already been out of the picture. Cargo pants seems to ruin your travel catwalk! Anyway wearing clothes with lots of pockets would greatly reduce the amount of space in your luggage. Clothes like this would even give you easier access to your digital camera, cell phone and other stuff you needed to reach your destination.

8. Transforming Clothes

It is not the movie or anything connected to Sam Witwicky! Try buying specialized clothes that converts like trousers into shorts and short sleeve shirts into long sleeve shirts. Not only that they are lightweight they are non creasing and quick drying too. By having these clothes working functionality twice as hard you can save tons of space in your luggage, giving you more space for your souvenir stuffs.

9. Purchase Travel Materials that are compactly designed.

Besides compacting your clothes into its smallest size , try buying travel accessories that are designed to fit in limited amount of space. Like a towels there are towels available anywhere that is a quarter of the traditional towel.

10. Tips and Research

Besides planning your trip, make some research like browsing the Internet, reading travel journals and many more. This will give you vital information on how to maximize your luggage's compactness. And one more thing ask a travel expert, surely they will guide you to pack things properly and neatly to your bags.

by: Alex Bayron

If You Travel You Have Been Ripped Off While Renting A Car, And You Didn’t Even Know It

2009-07-15T10:02:00.000-07:00

I spent over a year working in the rental car industry in that time I witnessed 7 out of 10 customers being taken advantage of by the rental agent in a multitude of ways.

Many customers are not even aware they are being ripped off when rental agents sell them upgrades,optional coverages,perform personal credit checks,include miscellaneous fees,taxes,pre paid gasoline,& charges for damages to a vehicle.

It was making me sick to observe all the shady tactics rental agents were using to make a few dollars, and meet or attempt to exceed the goals set by the company.

Car rental companies often require rental agents to meet certain goals before giving them commissions or earning incentives. This really brought out the absolute worst in sales people. All of the agents I worked with blatantly lied to customers just to get a sale.

I recall witnessing a rental agent boldly lie to a customer. Claiming the car they were booked in was unavailable because the customer didn’t want to buy the optional coverages. The agent swindled the traveler into paying for an upgrade they didn’t want. The customer took it because the alternative vehicle the agent offered was no where near comparable to what they booked.

In another instance a foreign customer came in with a reservation to rent a car for 28 days. The customer denied optional coverages, but the rental agent put it on anyway quadrupling the customers bill! The customer didn’t even realize they were cheated until they were back home a month later looking at their credit card statement.

This customer was swindled because he understood very little english, and rental agreements place a final total as an estimated charge. The agent can easily misrepresent charges about a customers total if the customer doesn’t read the agreement carefully. Various things affect the final cost such as bringing the car back late or early, not refueling the vehicle, & taxes.

The rental agent was more inclined to cheat this customer because having all those unprofitable rental days under their name lowers the percentage needed to reach a goal to get paid a commission. The work environment in this industry is very high pressure, & stressful. Often managers are constantly looking over an agents shoulder. Some will even antagonize an agent after the customer leaves if they didn’t sell anything extra. Agents can even lose their jobs for falling behind ridiculous goals set by the company.

Many of the goals set by the company were unfair. Too many variables affect if an agent has an opportunity to meet the goals. Lack of fleet inventory, poor sales motivation from management, weather conditions, current events in town, the number of agents staffed at the counter, & certain shifts had an effect on the performance of sales.

Many customers get ripped off because the overall experience of traveling wears down a person. And by the time they get to the rental car facility they just want to get the keys, and go. Travelers rarely fully understand what there signing, and many of them don’t read the rental contracts because they place a false sense of trust in the person standing behind the counter.

It gets even worse if a traveler arrives late at night or if their flight was delayed. These travelers are usually not mentally alert to deal with intricate details of renting a car unless they are frequent renters. They often get tricked into paying for a frivolous upgrade, buying prepaid gasoline, & adding an additional driver when they may not have one.

I would like to hear any stories a person has to share about being ripped off from a car rental company in any way. I am writing an ebook to show travelers how to avoid being taken to the cleaners. Your feedback would be much appreciated.

You can email him your stories, comments, or suggestions.

by: Maximillion Richman

Explore Nice In France – How Car Travel Makes For a Memorable Holiday

2009-07-10T09:56:00.000-07:00

A classic option to explore the celebrated cities of France such as Nice is through car travel because the unbounded freedom that car travel offers is much needed for exploring Nice in France. Cruising through the south of France, there are museums, and restaurants to experience. Visiting these attractions is most convenient with a car because crowded public transport systems can be exasperating sometimes. As hiring a car in Nice from the airport is simple, one can sit back and drive through the divine country lands without a care in the world.

Nice offers a uniquely luxurious comfort along with other world famous tourist attractions which few other places can offer. The west side has small hills while the east extends to the Mediterranean Sea. Serene Vineyards, quiet villages and a savvy nightlife awaits you if you drive through the countryside.

Restaurants – The culinary delights that Nice offers is the cities chief attraction. The Cours Saleya market offers fine delicacies, while sipping the Provencal wine is another soothing experience. Overall, Cote d'Azur can be put as the gastronomic capital of France.

Beaches – Being along the coastline, Nice offers some really warm and relaxing beaches to its tourists lined with cosy seaside apartments and hotels.

Festivals - Each February sees a fresh influx of artists and performers for the Nice Festival beginning with Mardi Gras and ending with a Jazz gala.

With the many interesting places to visit and diverse cuisines to taste, Nice sums up perfectly the whole of France outside Paris (which has a different feel altogether).

Other French Attractions

Paris, known to many as the city of love, is also the fashion capital of the world. It offers something for everyone – huge mysterious museums for the intellectual, restaurants and cafes for the foodies, a romantic nightlife for the adventurous and much more. The Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Louvre Museum are world heritage sites worth visiting. One can only do justice to Paris by travelling slowly and absorbing every single bit of the lovely city which can be done best by car. Apart from Paris, Cannes is another charming town known for its annual film gala and sandy beaches.

A majority of French attractions are littered across the vast pleasant country side with small hill passes, the Alps and Pyrenees Mountains. Hiring a car in Nice makes it easy to enjoy this precious experience at one’s pace instead of hurrying through.

Tips for Hiring a Car

1. Choose a Car which can easily accommodate you and your family without being too big – traffic can be a major issue in some cities.

2. A GPS navigation system aids in travelling without getting lost in the dreamy country side and also helps in saving time.

3. Check with various number of Car hire companies for the different prices so that you do not end up with an expensive package.

Travelling to France has perhaps been on the wish lists of every travel-hungry person and you can make your trip even more memorable by travelling through the country in a car.

by: Dennis Wilson

Camping – An Economical and Eco-Friendly Alternative for Your Next Family Vacation

2009-07-09T11:04:00.000-07:00

With the skyrocketing prices of gas and food, many families simply cannot afford to hop on a plane and head to an exotic locale for their yearly family vacation anymore. However, don’t let the economic downturn ruin your plans to have a family vacation this year. One of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to have a family vacation on a budget is to go camping.

There are a variety of campgrounds across the US so you don’t have to go very far to enjoy a unique camping adventure. Because you won’t have to travel a long way, you will save on gas and thus help to preserve our environment. For an eco-friendly vacation that is equally friendly on your pocket book, go camping for your next family vacation. Whether you want to head to a campground in an RV, stay in a cabin, or pitch a tent, there are numerous activities you and your family can enjoy in the wild.

Activities Families Can Enjoy on a Camping Trip

When you go camping there are activities appropriate for family members of all ages. Some common activities associated with camping include: golfing, hunting, fishing, canoeing, swimming, kayaking, biking, river rafting, hiking, caving, and bathing in hot springs. Many campgrounds also have activities especially for children. Whether you want to relax and read a book by the waterside or enjoy adventurous activities and get some exercise, you’ll find plenty of activities to keep you entertained on a camping trip. Also, don’t forget the classic camping activities such as telling stories around the campfire and making s’mores.

Accommodation Options

If you’d like to enjoy the conveniences you have back at home on your camping trip, consider renting a cabin or traveling in an RV. Approximately seven million Americans now own RVs, making them a popular vacation option. Camping out in an RV or staying in a cabin is certainly a more comfortable option but if you are on a tight budget, consider pitching a tent. All you need to go tent camping are tents, sleeping bags, and other basic supplies.

If you have never been tent camping and you have young children, consider trying it out for a night in your own backyard first to get everyone used to it.

Food on a Camping Trip

When you go camping, one of the areas you save the most money in is food. You typically won’t spend any more money than you would if you stayed at home. If you have an RV you can prepare all of your food in its kitchenette but if you are traveling by car, you may need to take a camping stove and other supplies with you, depending on what facilities are available at your campground. It’s a good idea to take all of the food you think you’ll need so you don’t have to spend your vacation at the super market. Plus there may not be much available near your campground.

In conclusion, it’s possible to have a fun-filled family vacation without breaking the bank. There’s no need to travel halfway across the world to give your family a vacation to remember when you can take a local camping trip and have a blast. Go to a campground close to natural attractions so you can enjoy all that nature has to offer while saving money on food, activities, and accommodations.

by: Margie Dettman

Why You Still Need a Holiday in a Recession

2009-07-02T11:08:00.000-07:00

A recession, by its very nature, is a prolonged period of intense stress for most of us. Bank balances are dwindling, opportunities are all but disappearing and debt levels are rising to untenable levels. Instead of creeping into our proverbial shells and licking our fiscal wounds, however, the healthy alternative is simply to take a break.

It is arguably at these difficult times that we need to re-charge our batteries and take a look at life, not through the jaundiced eye, but with untrammelled hope and positive intent. How many times do we return from holiday with a totally different and positive view of life?

Soothing, green environments are the answer

Research has shown how green, natural environments are the soothing answer to many of our woes. Somehow, by communing with nature, an environment not governed by time, we allow ourselves to prioritise our needs and wants.

In the middle of the African bush, for instance, the fact that our luxury 4x4 has been repossessed seems to lose importance and instead we marvel at the sheer simplicity of nature, where only food and shelter are priorities.

Safari holidays are run on ‘African Time’

Southern Africa is, arguably, the perfect destination for those of us suffering from burn-out and financial fear. Safari holidays are run on ‘African Time’ i.e. effectively no time at all. In other words, travellers are urged to enjoy the opulence of the bush at their own pace - a snail’s pace, if necessary.

The beauty of visiting game parks anywhere in Southern Africa is the relatively low cost of accommodation and entrance fees. Sure, five-star lodges abound for the affluent but there are cheaper alternatives - self catering rondavels, bungalows or even camp sites. The much-vaunted big 5 safari may sound like an expensive and exotic option but in reality it is as cheap or as expensive as you want to make it.

Lower rates are a reality in a recession

Bear in mind the recession is not a beast that has attacked you and you alone. Everybody from Richard Branson to Warren Buffett is affected. Granted, their battles may well be puny compared to what you and I have to square off against, but the reality is that all businesses are under the proverbial cosh and are lowering rates and offering all sorts of incentives in an effort to entice the ever-diminishing client base.

Simply go online and shop around for the best African safari specialist that can organise you budget flights, scheduled tours, accommodation and even transport. Put all the recession worries on hold and make for an African safari; it could very well be the best investment you ever make for you and your family!

by: Kayla Reid

Desert Safari Excursions in Dubai

2009-07-02T09:54:00.000-07:00

If you’ve not experienced desert tours in Dubai, you have missed out on a lot. The desert surrounding Dubai is a thrill and an adventure. Most safari tours include a desert safari drive, a camp, a barbecue, camel rides, dinner and belly dancing.

Desert safari drives are also known as ‘dune bashing’ in Dubai and only if you are an experienced person at driving in the desert, you can drive the 4WD. But the best option has always been, booking your safari through professional tour operators in Dubai as they have well trained drivers who can maximize your thrill.

The vehicles will go through sand dunes, climbing Dune Mountains, driving across sand dunes in a 45 degree angle…. It’s real fun.

A unique desert safari drive needs to take you through routes that outline Dubai. This way you can capture views of the beautiful desert and colourful sunsets! Be sure to choose a tour company that allows you to stop at camel farms around the place.

Then the desert safari continues and all vehicles will come to a central camp in the middle of the desert. There are tents, tables and chairs in the camp for people to sit and relax, as well as a centre stage for the belly dancers.

Some desert safari excursions in Dubai arrange a typical Bedouin campsite in the desert with Arabian carpets, low tables and cushions for tourists to lounge about as well as enjoy henna tattoos, sheesha and other interesting activities planned out.

The barbecue at the desert camp and camel rides are a part of every desert safari package. But if you want to experience touching the stars at night, a traditional dinner buffet is set at your desert camp under the night sky, followed by post dinner entertainment by belly dancers and other entertainers by desert safari tours in Dubai.

At our Dubai Tour Company – One World Travel and Tourism, we consider a desert safari, a nice way to round up the evening after an exciting day well spent at the malls. We have arranged safari tours in Dubai for corporate groups as well as honeymooning couples and families. Our travel team is experienced and very familiar with the level of comfort expected by both large and small groups and is flexible enough to accommodate special requests and preferences.

Be sure to catch all the excitement you can get, on your sightseeing tour in Dubai the next time.

by: Gary Cairns

Plenty Activities To Cover on your Sightseeing Tours In Dubai

2009-06-30T09:55:00.000-07:00

Dubai as we all know is full of life and activities. Apart from taking care of your transportation and stay; Dubai tour travel companies organize everything from scratch and make sure you experience this city to the fullest.

Other than the culture, art and the city’s scenic natural and man-made beauty; there are numerous exciting things to do.

Dubai, also known as ‘the City of Gold’ is famous for its gold souq (Arabic for market). Even if you aren’t the type to be interested in gold, this place is worth visiting. But people don’t come to Dubai, just because the gold prices here are among the lowest in the world.

Ski Dubai, the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East, offers an amazing snow setting to enjoy skiing and snowboarding or just playing in the snow.

Dubai being home to the world’s cleanest beaches with fine, white sand and clear waters; its best that you don’t forget to wear sunscreen!

Just an hour outside of the city lies the golden desert. You can book a safari tour that will take you to the desert, experience dune bashing/desert safari and have a great dinner of Arabic food while desert camping in Dubai.

Though I haven’t tried this, I know that hot air balloon rides are definitely one of the most exciting things to do while in Dubai. On your hot air balloon, you can view the Dubai skyline and spectacular landscapes of mountains and azure waters, as you go high up in air, almost into the endearing arms of the blue sky.

Only the best tours in Dubai can give you an experience to remember. Along with desert camping and safaris, hot air balloon rides, indoor skiing and shopping; deep sea fishing, Dubai quad bike , mountaineering, Dhow cruises and much more are available for you to make up a unique Dubai experience.

If you need to book yourself into a luxury hotel, hotel apartment or go overnight camping in Dubai on your trip, Dubai Travel Company-One World Travel and Tourism can make your visit unforgettable with unique recreation options.

We endeavor to provide business and leisure travels too with exceptionally priced Dubai tour packages and hotel bookings that are far more superior and affordable than what other operators offer.

For best discounts on tours to Dubai, visit: http://www.dubaitourcompany.com/index.html

by: Gary Cairns

Utilize a Tour Operator for Your Next Trip

2009-06-28T11:09:00.000-07:00

While not everyone is familiar with what a tour operator does, this travel professional can make a huge difference in how well your next vacation or business trip goes. Providing a one stop shop of services for many aspects of the vacation experience, utilizing the services of a tour operator can save time, money, and make getting to and from your destination a much more efficient and enjoyable experience.

In terms of what a tour operator does, the focus is on combining elements of touring and travel into one simple package. For example, a tour operator may be called upon to arrange a charter flight to a given destination, then provide transportation from the airport or airstrip to the hotel, hostel, or whatever other accommodations have been made for the traveler. While in the area, the tour operator either functions as the local resource for everyone traveling within the tour group, or has arranged for a local representative to assist members of the group with anything they may need.

All services provided by the tour operator are contracted up front and are included in the fee charged. The tourist does not have to be concerned about separate charges for transportation, lodgings, or any other component that is covered under the contract with the tour operator. This can help simplify the process of traveling a great deal, since the operator is responsible for making the basic arrangements as well as any other service that is specifically covered by the terms and conditions of the contract.

Along with handling transportation and lodging issues, the tour operator is also likely to arrange escorted tours of selected local sites, providing the tour with some degree of structure. It is also not unusual for the tour operator to arrange at least one meal each day for the tour group, usually the morning or evening meal. At other times, the members of the group are responsible for planning and paying for their own meals.

Engaging the services of a tour operator is often a good idea when planning a trip that involves a large number of people. For example, a tour operator would be an ideal means of making plans for a faith-based tour to locations that are of significance to the members of the tour party, or when making arrangements for business conventions where several hundred people are expected to attend. In many ways, a tour operator may work hand in hand with event planners to reserve blocks of hotel rooms, arrange transportation to and from an airport, and also schedule tours to local points of interest in the evenings, when convention activities for the day are completed.

While the Internet has made it much easier for many people to make their own travel plans online, there is still a great demand for the services of tour operators. Generally, the operators have solid working arrangements with transportation companies, hotel chains, and other services that are normally employed during a vacation or tour. This professional rapport often makes it possible for the operator to obtain price breaks that individuals would never be able to manage on their own. From this perspective, going through a tour operator can mean saving a great deal of money on both the travel arrangements and the activities that take place during the course of the tour.

Utilizing a tour operator is an excellent idea if you plan on traveling to countries where you know very little in regard to the local culture. The operator can help you understand local currency, develop a fair idea of what is considered appropriate behavior in the area, and in general supply you with information that will prevent any type of awkward incidents. At the same time, the operator can also help you understand what you will need in the way of identification papers, including picture IDs and passports.

Finding a tour operator is a relatively simple task. Many operators advertise in local periodicals as well as national travel magazines. It is not unusual for tour operators to operate web sites, providing details of the types of tours they offer and the range of services they provide. In many countries there is at least one national association composed of active tour operators. Many of these associations can provide contact information for tour operators in your local area.

For your next trip, consider engaging the services of a tour operator. You may be surprised at how easy the process works and how many of the small details the operator is able to handle on your behalf. Between making the necessary arrangements and assisting you with the day to day arrangements of taking tours and soaking up local culture, you may wonder how you ever managed without a tour operator.

by: Jennifer Bailey

Top 5 Summer Vacation Destinations in the US – Orlando, Miami, Washington DC, Philadelphia, Denver

2009-06-25T11:17:00.000-07:00

Summer is the perfect bonding period for American families and friends. This is the time for people to unwind or gather together to create wonderful memories. There are many activities to choose from during summer vacation depending on the type of adventure you want to seek.

Enjoy a weekend getaway or stay longer and saviour some of the most popular summer destinations in US with your family.

Orlando, FL

Orlando is known for its many attractions. You can find there the Walt Disney World, Universal Pictures, Sea World and Discovery Cove. This is a perfect summer getaway for both the young and the young at heart.

Miami, FL

Miami is well-known as a cultural melting pot which is heavily influenced both by its large population of ethnic Latin Americans and Caribbean islanders. If you love the beach, the arts, or the incredible nightlife, Miami is the place to be.

Washington, DC

If history is your cup of tea, D.C. should top your list. This is not only the United States’ capital but there are also other famous sites to visit. Many of the most famous U.S. historic landmarks reside in Washington: the White House, the Capitol, the Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, the Library of Congress, Smithsonian Museums, International Spy Museum, John F. Kennedy Center of the Performing Arts, Ford’s Theater, and so on.

Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia is known as The City of Brotherly Love. If you plan to visit this place soon, do not fail to stop by the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House, Independence Hall, and Gettysburg.

Denver, CO

Denver is another great and breathtaking place to visit in the U.S. It is also known as the Mile High City with year-round adventure and the overwhelming Rocky Mountains as a background. Visitors will surely enjoy their trip to museums, cultural events, world class shopping, and access to some of the most beautiful areas for day hikes, mountain climbing, and camping.

by:
Rebecca Wilson

To Live in Costa Rica Means Living In Paradise

2009-06-19T10:01:00.000-07:00

Costa Rica is truly beautiful – magnificent even. It is one of the most bio diverse countries in the world. Nestled between Nicaragua and Panama, between the Pacific and the Caribbean, it is home to lush rainforests, active volcanoes, hills, valleys and spectacular beaches. It boasts exotic wildlife. The temperatures are permanently set on summer around the coast and spring in the hills and valleys in the center of the country. No wonder so many people want to live in Costa Rica!

If you decide this is the place for you, then the first step is research, followed up by a visit. You can see lots of the country by bus, rent a car or go on one of the many tours. There’s nothing to compare experiencing the country first hand. Probably the more you see, the more you like but somewhere there will be a place or two that speaks to you.

When you have found that special place, then do some local research. Find out where the bank is, the nearest hospital, when the shops open and shut – if there is a local market, the next real estate company, etc. etc. What do you want to do when you live in Costa Rica? Will it be as a business venture or for retirement or semi-retirement. Many people come down to retire and then end up running a business they enjoy.

When you return home from your holiday, continue with your research. Find out if you can live there permanently. If you need a visa, import restrictions, etc.

The next step would be to go and live there for a while and rent a place in the area you have decided you would like to live. This is a great way to ‘soak’ up the place, find the ins and outs. What is great, what you think could be improved upon. Most importantly, you can then decide how feasible it is for you to leave North America and live in your part of paradise. Find out when the sun sets every day, what restaurants are good, what do they cost, etc. Only then would it feasible to take the next step and rent for the long haul or purchase a place.

You will have found out that to live in Costa Rica is to live the simple life. You can relax and enjoy the spectacular views and the beauty of the area. Eat good fresh organic foods every day. Life here is so much less stressful, which is why it is truly a paradise.

by: Sandra Fierling

Book Hotelrooms Online

2009-06-18T11:14:00.000-07:00

For those who have a demanding job and find it tricky to take more than a few days off, taking a city short break can offer the perfect solution. There are plenty of exciting and interesting places to choose from, Barcelona, Budapest, Venice, Rome and Istanbul are just a selection. Regular flights and short flight times mean they are handy and inexpensive for travelers and tourists, and with the convenience of online hotel booking you can save time and energy for your holiday.

A popular European city with style is Barcelona, abundant with art and culture. It has a uniquely special atmosphere in comparison to other cities in Spain due to its location in the region of Cataluña where culture and language are separate from the rest of the mainland. Barcelona is a busy city that attracts tourists with its Mediterranean coastline and architectural wonders. The 13th century Barcelona Cathedral is located in the historical Gothic Quarter, and a fascinating place to relax at one of the many pavement cafes, visit a museum or art gallery. Walking through the area a visitor will see a selection of various entertainers and street performers displaying their works of art and individual acts.

Barcelona was the residence of Picasso for a number of years and there is a museum dedicated to him with a collection of his early works on show. Gaudi’s famous architectural creations can be found all over the city and are jaw dropping in their use of mosaic tiles, twisted sculptures and curved stones.

A fascinating street of boutiques, restaurants and entertainers, Las Rambas will lead you down to the Barcelona’s beach with its wealth of cafes and bars. There is plenty to keep you busy in the evenings too, visit the Montjuich Castle where you can view the spectacular Magic Fountains with a fantastic display of light, water and music or head to a nightclub at the waterfront. If you are looking for somewhere to stay then it is easy to book Spain hotels online, a service that is speedy and handy for those with little time.

Italy is another country popular for weekend getaways and short breaks. Venice, Milan, and Florence are all spectacular cities to visit, each with a personality that will impress even the most experienced traveler. Rome has managed to maintain its renaissance and baroque architecture in a modern and stylish atmosphere. St. Peter’s Square is just one of many areas where the locals and visitors like to meet up and socialize, eat, and watch the organized events. The Colosseum was the site of gladiatorial and animal combats, The Pantheon is the best preserved Roman building in the world and The Basilica Cathedral is a medieval masterpiece, these are all sights guaranteed to give you a taste of Rome’s ancient past.

Many people of course come to Italy for the shopping, all the designer names can be found here from Armani and Prada to Dolce and Gabbana. One of the most famous shopping cities has to be Milan, famous for its fashion houses the city has elegance and taste. The main attractions here are The Duomo Cathedral, the world-famous opera house La Scala and Santa Maria delle Grazie Church where Leonardo da Vinci's mural of the Last Supper can be viewed.

Paris is a hit with people of all ages. The international capital of art, fashion and style can be a romantic destination, fun for families with kids, or perfect for a group of friends seeking entertainment. You can’t visit Paris without paying a visit to the Arc de Triomphe, the Notre Dame Cathedral and of course the Eiffel Tower. There are a number of beautiful gardens and parks in the city centre that during the autumn months are full of color and flowers and in the summer months buzz with festivals, fetes, events and shows.

It is an easy procedure to book Italy hotels as well as other worldwide accommodation, simply check online for an organization dealing in online reservations. It’s very straight-forward and you can have your reservation confirmed in just a couple of minutes, by far the most convenient way to make an online hotel booking.

by: Michiel Van Kets

How to Make a Holiday in Cancun Mexico a Reality

2009-06-15T11:12:00.000-07:00

It's a dream come true, to holiday in one of the most beautiful cities - Cancun, Mexico. During financially hard times like now, it's always better to look further than usually expensive hotels & resorts and instead think about renting a Condo in Cancun. Here are few handy tips on how to make your Rental Vacation in Cancun filled with fun & adventure in a shoestring budget.

1. Planning early : - A holiday without planning can turn in to a nightmare for you. Most of the villas and rental condos in Cancun are generally booked much in advance. So, don't try to rent a villa if your holiday plans are for the next month. You can end up in renting something that may not be appropriate for you. All you have to do is finalize the vacation time depending on various issues, like your kids school or exams and your official holidays. Then you will have an edge as your plans have been set in advance. You will get ample time to seek and resolve minute details related to vacations, which would have disturbed your relaxing time.

2. Involve Friends it's cheaper : - It's advisable to involve friends while you plan to rent a residential vacation villa, as it helps you to reduce cost per individual. If it's a big group, you can also rent a larger and hence more private villa. First make a list of your friends, who can be interested in going along with you in vacation. According to your preference order them on the basis of common interests like outdoor activities, adventures sea sports or cooking etc. You can try to get at least six to twelve of your friends from the list you made. Once convinced, you all are heading for a more private and nice vacation.

3. Budget Planning : - You got your friends for your sizzling Mexican holiday. Now you have to sort out how much amount each person can shell out. It's quite possible most of you travel companions may not know have much idea about expenses. Try to know from your companions how much they are willing to bear. Check out the flight rates and cost of renting a home in Cancun. If one of your friends budget is lower or more than the whole group, then you have to discuss with them, their expectations or if they are willing to drop out. It's not a bad idea to you collect a minimum deposit from all members of the group to ensure no one withdraws at last moment once you've booked flights and rental home in Cancun.

4. Holiday where your interests lie : - Cancun, Mexico is not only about sea activities. So, before finalizing any vacation home in Cancun make a list of common interests between you and your companions like -

Visit the Ancient Mayan ruins

Snorkeling

Sea Diving

See some popular museums

Jungle Tours

5. Time to Contact your Travel Consultant : - Now its time to consult your travel advisor or a good reputable Vacation Rental Company in Cancun Mexico to seek some expert advice. As many of you may be first timers.

Inform them about your choices, schedule, strength and budget. And depending upon your information with your advisor will provide you with some good ideas to plan your vacations if not splendid but in a better way.

Vacation Rental Company in Cancun will assist you in getting a rental home according to your preferred location and outdoor activities and where your entire group can fit comfortably.

by: Tom Budniak

Set Sail with a Cruise Travel Agency

2009-06-12T11:15:00.000-07:00

When you decide it is time for a cruise, your best bet is to book it through a travel agency that has extensive experience in creating and booking travel packages for different types of cruises. Choosing to use a cruise travel agency has a number of advantages over trying to make the arrangements yourself.

Even if you spend days checking out online cruise offers and phoning different cruise lines, the bottom line is that the cruise travel agency can cover a lot more ground in much less time, ultimately making the planning process a lot easier. Within a matter of minutes, they can ask a few basic questions and access a number of options for your cruise experience. They can tell you what cruises are leaving from what ports, which ports are visited, and how long each cruise would last. Trying to find the same information on your own would take at least hours, if not days, to manage.

There is also an excellent chance that the travel agency will have information on cruises that you have never even heard of before. While you may have been thinking in terms of an ocean cruise of some type, the agency may be aware of cruises that make the most of a trip up and down a coastline, stopping at interesting ports along the way. There is a good chance a travel agency would be familiar with what is sometimes called boutique cruises. Boutique cruises are cruises that are tailored to a specific market, such as retirees, young singles, or faith based cruises. From this perspective, the agency can help broaden your possibilities for this exciting experience.

You are most likely going to be working with travel budget for your cruise vacation. The agent can take your maximum figure into consideration, along with the dates you have in mind for the cruise, and come up with practical suggestions that meet both criteria. Because travel agencies that specialize in cruise vacations are more likely to know how to claim the best deals, you have a much better chance of getting more amenities for the money you can afford to spend.

Travel agencies that routinely book cruises are also much more likely to be able to provide details on what types of shipboard amenities and amusements will be available. This also saves you a great deal of time, since you can compare the merits of more than one cruise line for your trip. The agency can provide information on the activities, on board shopping and entertainment options, and other key elements of life on board with ease. Since you can consider the options side by side, making a decision on which line to use will be a snap.

Even the most seasoned of travelers sometimes forget some details. This can create problems during the cruise. For example, you may have forgotten that you need a passport in order to leave the ship and do some shopping at a particular port of call. There may also be matters such as making sure you carry other specific types of identification, observe any restrictions on the items you can take along on the ship, and many other matters that may not occur to you until it is too late. A seasoned travel agent will know immediately what you need and what you can or cannot do in connection with a given cruise itinerary, and advise you in advance.

Unfortunately, there is still the possibility of something unanticipated happening on the cruise, such as a sudden illness or an emergency at home that requires you to cut the trip short. Making all your plans through the travel agency can be very advantageous in situations of this type. The agency can simply access your plans, cancel any remaining legs of the trip you will not be able to take, and process alternative plans to get you wherever you need to go, whether it is the nearest healthcare facility or a quick flight home. Since time is often precious in these types of situations, having a travel agency to handle all the details for you will get you where you need to go a lot faster.

Finding the right travel agency for your cruise may take a little time on the front end. If there are several agencies in your city or town, find out which ones are very familiar with cruise options. Visit each one and see how well you get along with the agents, and which ones exhibit the most interest in helping you plan the ideal cruise vacation. It should not take too long to settle on the right agency and begin making plans for your dream vacation.

by: Jennifer Bailey

Your gap year guide to travel in Australia

2009-06-12T11:10:00.000-07:00

A firm favourite with gap year travellers, there are some very good reasons behind Australia’s enduring popularity; its location makes it a perfect stop off on a round the world ticket and a great place to wind down. An added bonus for English speakers is the lack of a language barrier, which makes earning money here much easier; the well developed infrastructure means that travelling around is no hassle; and as if that wasn’t enough; the country has a natural beauty to rival any of its more exotic neighbours

Australia is that rarest of things; a tropical country which can afford to fit air conditioning in most of its public buildings! Gappers who will spend a lot of time both in and out of doors will certainly appreciate it! That in a nutshell is the appeal of Australia; breathtaking beauty in a user-friendly package. Keep reading the see how Australia ranks on the trusty Gapometer.

***** Gaptastic
**** Great for gappers
*** Worth a look
** Too much else to see
* Never mind the Gap

Volunteer work

The dangers of environmental damage are known only too well here. The landscape may look rugged but it’s no match for global warming; one of the driest countries in the world is getting drier and it’s having a huge effect on all life here, human and wild. Since European settlers landed, the continent has lost a huge number of its natural species; conservation work here gets less press than in many countries around the world but the Australian Conservation Foundation is becoming increasingly concerned about the situation. If you’re thinking of doing something useful on your gap year then volunteering in Australia may be just the thing fro you.

**** A less high-profile victim of global warming, the area still needs you

Exploring

One of Australia’s greatest advantages for the gapper is its proximity to Asia. A short hop and you’re in the heart of Asia, enjoying temples and tuk-tuks. The handy ‘round the world’ ticket pretty much guarantees that Australia features on most people’s itinerary but if you’re going to use your time to explore Australia then bring a good book! As the world’s largest island, transfers can be lengthy; air travel is a popular way of getting around. Look for deals that give you multiple flights within a certain period of time.

Contrary to most countries, bus transport is excellent with air-conditioned, video-equipped buses that will put your hostel room to shame. Remember that public transport is better on the glitzy east coast than in other parts of the country; train travel here is for enthusiasts rather than people in a hurry. The Indian Pacific is a great way to see a huge amount of the country and unless you get travel sick it’s well worth fitting into your schedule. If you’re travelling in the wild, make sure you check out some outback safety tips, because you don’t want to get stuck there.

**** Varies across the country but overall no hindrance to great travel

Money

Fun as it is to start planning diving in coral reefs and traversing the Outback, first of all you should give careful thought to your budget. The last thing you want is to leave for a year and have to cut your journey short because of a lack of cash. Avoid the famous one-armed bandits though and money shouldn’t stand in the way of a great trip. Remember the lack of a language barrier always presents opportunities for work even if you do run short.

As in most countries, you can have a frugal or extravagant travel experience here. Smaller towns make almost no dent in your wallet while the eastern coast is a more expensive area in which to travel (they don’t call it the Gold Coast for nothing)! You won’t live as cheaply as in Asia or Africa but living costs here are still extremely cheap in some areas. If you decide to explore after you finish doing some volunteering make sure you plan a round trip back to your arrival city as a return flight home will cost you less than two singles.

**** Not as cheap as Africa and Asia but just as cheerful!

The wow factor

There can be a tendency to think of Australia as a home away from home and as such, not as exotic as other countries in the area. However, as much as language, food and music will remind you of home here, the Outback, Great Barrier Reef, tropical North and stunning Blue Mountains provide more than enough of an exotic travel experience.

**** More different than you think

Useful links:

http://www.i-to-i.com/resources/students-and-gap-years/

by: Bruce Haxton

Live Life to the Fullest on your Australia Vacation

2009-06-09T10:30:00.000-07:00

It is true that even today certain things in life bring us happy and ecstatic surprises, far from the otherwise humdrum and busy world. Australia vacations will prove it right.

A tour to Australia is so unique that it is different from traveling in any other country in the world. Your Australian vacation will certainly prove to be one of the most unforgettable experiences of your life. Breathe in an Australian adventure with a tour schedule including Hunter Valley and its Australian Wines, Sydney and its opera house, the Gold Coast with its beautiful theme parks and amazing beaches, Queensland and its mystic island resorts, the Sunshine Coast and Noosa with Steve Irwin’s wonderful Australia Zoo. Australia vacations could not get better than this!

The Australia vacation packages allow you to make a lovely tour of the important tourist spots, ensuring you the best travel experience. Be charmed by the Daydream Island and Hamilton Island resorts, Sailing Charters, Whitsundays with the famous Hayman Island, Cairns with the Great Barrier Reef, Kakadu National Park with its crocodiles and haunting scenery, Port Douglas with the gripping Daintree rainforest, or Ayers Rock with its beauty or ski fields in Victoria and New South Wales. Your Australian vacation will be filled with ultimate satisfaction for sure.

Instead of replicating the idea of Tasmania as a shy island soaked in soggy forests and creepy village people feeding on dried salmon it is actually quite mesmerizing. Supported by tall mountains, spread-out peninsulas, steep cliffs, empyreal beaches and mystical caves, Tasmania breathes the cleanest and purest air on earth. In the Australia vacations those long walks along turquoise seas, by the lofty peaks, through the rainforests, extensive farmlands and Highland moors; the exhilarating trekking and rafting sprees - everything is sure to hypnotize you!

To top it all, you get to encounter some of the rarest wild animals that are exclusively found in your adventurous Australia vacation. The meets with the Tasmanian Tiger, possum, kookaburra, quoll and platypus will be fabulous.

Journey Pacific will help you find detailed information regarding Australia vacations - on Sydney Australia, accommodation in Australian and Australian travel packages. Australia is a fantastic destination for skiers, with ski fields in Victoria and New South Wales. Also available here are information regarding transportation on your Australia vacations.

by: Sara Collins

How to Save Money for Traveling

2009-06-06T11:15:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of ways that you can save yourself a lot of money on travel. Many people are traveling less these days because it can get quite costly and expensive, especially for a whole family. Traveling with the whole family is important to do, because it is an opportunity in our busy lives to spend time together and have fun. Our lives could become so hectic that this doesn’t happen often.

Saving money on travel is all about planning and preparation. The more time you take to plan your vacation, the more time and research you can put into finding a good deal on your dream vacation. You will need to have access to a computer with an internet connection, as most of the great travel deals are found online. You can have a travel agent do the searching for you, but you will have to pay them a fee.

Decide on a destination that you would like to travel to. Most major destinations have peak and off peak time, and if you travel there in a non peak season, you can typically get a cheaper hotel rate, as well as discounted admission to any parks or admission you might want to see and do. There are also many tips about travel and finance at http://www.fidetips.com for you to read.

You can find a lot of inexpensive travel deals if you have flexible travel dates. If you can alter your vacation a day or two, you can save yourself a lot of money. You should research on travel websites online to find the best deals. It can be quite expensive to travel on weekends and holidays, but less in the middle of the week. You may skip an airline flight and take the time to drive to your destination, or taking a bus.

Whenever you plan to travel, you can also save yourself some money by bringing snacks, drink and food on your vacation. This will eliminate eating out so much, which can be really expensive. You may also take advantage and stay at places which have free continental breakfast, which will save you the cost of one meal a day.

You may also like to travel in a large group that will give you the availability of getting a discount for the larger group. If you are traveling for a wedding or other occasions, ask the hotel in advance if you can set a block on a few rooms, they typically will give you a lower price.

There are a lot of ways you can save money on travel, making the vacation dream that is affordable an actual reality. You just need to have the time to plan, prepare and search for the best deals.

by: Teeny Ingberg

Africa – The Wild Continent - Africian Safaris

2009-06-05T11:06:00.000-07:00

The past century the colonialism that was the predominant feature of that time named Africa the Dark Continent. Of course, the nomenclature reflected on the colour of the skin of the indigenous people, but it does seem a bit stupid now to call the continent that might well be our collective homeland by a possibly derogatory term.

Demographics

Africa is the second largest continent in the world after Asia, as well as the second most populous one. It is home to a bewildering number of races of people and it is almost impossible to define the term African culture. As per one estimate, the continent is home to more than one thousand different languages that can be classified into four distinct families of languages, the Afro-Asiatic, the Nilo-Saharan, the Khoisan and the Niger-Congo families of languages.

History

Most paleoanthropologists agree that Africa is the womb of modern humans, i.e. the Homo-sapiens. It can be confidently said that Africa was the oldest inhabited corner of the world and whatever the condition of the continent is today, its urban lifestyle used to be an example to the rest of the world in the millennia gone by. After all, we sometimes tend to forget that the great civilisation of Egypt did develop in Africa.

The decline of the continent can be traced to the rise of colonialism and the despicable concept of slave trading. The continent lost millions of pairs of hands that could have helped in the development of the area to colonies overseas and thus it sunk further into misery.

Africa Today

Today Africa is a popular tourist destination and millions of people from all over the world go there in order to get closer to nature. African safaris are especially popular among tourists and the national parks are some of the most popular destinations. After all, Africa still is the most pristine natural continent in the world.

If you are planning to go to Africa, the first thing you need is a reliable tour operator. African Encounter is a small, dedicated team – they like to think of themselves as the Africa safari experts! They are passionate about Africa and dedicated to making your safari to Africa an experience like no other. They have lived and travelled in Africa for many years and have been planning safari itineraries since 1994. For many years they ran their own safari operation in Mana Pools, Zimbabwe and understand what makes a good safari operator (and what does not). They have maintained a great many contacts throughout the industry and have associate offices in nearly every country they send their clients. You are always assured of a local contact and a smiling face when you arrive in Africa and wherever your itinerary takes you. They can plan your safari itinerary with as much care, thought and attention as if it were their own. To know more about African Encounter and the destinations and safaris they are offering, please log on to their website at www.africanencounter.com.

by: Kelly Warner

Accommodation in Hamilton Island

2009-06-05T09:52:00.000-07:00

Being a popular tourist destination, Hamilton Island has no dearth of accommodation options. Right from budget hotels to luxurious resorts you have a plethora of options to choose from. Still, the most preferred accommodation type on the island are apartments.

Hamilton Island is neither an agriculture community nor an industrial area. The primary and only economic activity on the island is tourism (and related services). Due to this, there is a very small permanent population on the island. The majority are the tourists. The apartments that you would see on the island would therefore not be of the locals. These cater to the tourists who do not like to live in hotels and crave a more home-like environment.

As per popular demand, many types of apartments are available for hire on the island. The amenities provided and the rates vary widely and we suggest you do some background research before finalising an apartment. The apartments available include:

• 1 Bedroom Apartments – These are the smallest apartments having just one bedroom. A maximum of two guests are allowed to stay in any such apartment.

• 2 Bedroom Apartments – These apartments have two bedrooms and are larger than the 1 bedroom ones. The facilities are usually also greater. Most of these are for a maximum of four people.

• 3 Bedroom Apartments – Another bedroom added to the two bedroom apartment and a bit more space of course. Anyone who is any good at mathematics can calculate that the maximum number of people allowed would be …. six, right!!

• Luxury Apartments – If you have are ready to spend some money, try one of the luxury apartments. They have more amenities than the other apartments and you can have the time of your life at these places.

Most of these apartments offer add ons and built in facilities such as buggy for going around the island, barbeques etc. Please confirm while booking what all you would be provided with.

Frangipani 204 is the only 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom privately owned & rented beachfront apartment on Hamilton Island . To know more about this apartment, the facilities provided and booking options please visit their website at http://www.frangipani204.com.au.

by: Joan Paynter

My Movie Staycation: Hopping Aboard the Manhattan Tour of TV & Movie Sites

2009-06-03T09:51:00.000-07:00

In light of the recent economic downturn and subsequent belt tightening, I have opted against a fabulous Caribbean vacation or cross-country road trip this summer and have decided instead on a “staycation” and becoming a tourist in my own town. And apparently, I’m not the only one. According to the Air Transport Association, about 1.3 percent fewer Americans are expected to fly this summer than last summer. AAA Vice President Mark Brown acknowledges that, due to the slowing economy and high fuel prices, “a small number of us may choose to stay home... and relax with friends and family rather than take a vacation.”

Granted, playing tourist is a lot easier when you live in New York City, as I happen to do. Culture, history, events, and attractions are everywhere you look. And while I wanted to feel like a true tourist, I couldn’t bring myself to wait in line to go to the top of the Empire State Building or ride one of those bright red double deckers. So I chose instead to take the New York Tour of TV & Movie Sites from On Location Tours.

The tour picks up at Ellen’s Stardust Diner, another tourist trap I had previously neglected to visit, with relatively good reason as I really do not enjoy watching people sing (hence my loathing of American Idol). However, I will admit that Ellen’s provided a relatively enjoyable breakfast experience. The food wasn’t terrific—nor was the service—but obviously you go for the atmosphere and the singing waitstaff, not the waffles.

You are welcomed upon the tourbus with the familiar tv and movie theme songs of your past – Cosby Show, anyone? Ray Parker Junior’s unnervingly catchy ditty that remains in your head for the rest of the day? Yep, they’re all there.

Our tour guide, Kimberly, was perky and extremely knowledgeable about “the most filmed city in the world.” She kept the tour engaging with trivia contests and pointing out celebrity homes along the tour.

One of the best features of the tour is viewing the locations you’ve just seen on the tourbus tv screens. Can’t exactly picture that scene from Ghostbusters where the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man makes his way to Columbus Circle? Oh, there he is in all his marshmallowy goodness on screen for you to remember.

The tour takes place mostly on the bus, but makes several stops along the way for leg stretching, pizza eating (at Famous Ben’s from MIB II), and of course, photo ops. Stops include Hook and Ladder 8 (the beloved Ghostbusters firehouse), the Huxtable House from The Cosby Show, and Monica’s apartment from Friends (sadly, Central Perk was filmed on a soundstage). I could have done without the group singalong of the Friends theme song and “Smelly Cat,” but the black and white cookie we were given as a reward more than made up for it (“Look to the cookie, Elaine!”)

Overall, this tour is a great way to see a large portion of Manhattan in just a few hours. It’s also a perfect choice when the weather is too hot, too cold or too wet for spending extended periods of time outdoors, as most of the tour is spent on the bus.

So if you’re a legit tourist, a “staycationer,” or just entertaining out-of-town visitors, the Manhattan TV & Movie Tour is a sure bet for a fun-filled afternoon for all ages. Hey, you might even learn a thing or two.

Tickets can be purchased on the On Location Tours website at http://www.screentours.com.

by: Meagan Hess

Most Popular Curios Bought by Foreigners Visiting South Africa

2009-05-31T10:07:00.000-07:00

African curios are sought-after by visiting tourists simply because they are visually appealing, completely unique and are the living remnants of ancient crafts that have been passed down through the generations.

The vast majority of African curios are genuine, hand-crafted works of art that are still used for their original purpose, such as wooden masks used for initiation ceremonies or the popular Djembe drum used to make music.

Don’t run the gauntlet of excess luggage in South Africa

Many of the more popular choices are rather cumbersome and often far too big for the backpack or suitcase. Instead of running the gauntlet of excess luggage in South Africa, it is rather more feasible to opt for dedicated freight shipping from your hotel or homestay in South Africa directly to your front door, regardless of the address.

Luggage shipping is the simple solution for those seduced by the mystique and sheer beauty of African curios, as it means the intrepid journeyman and woman won’t have to exercise restraint – good news for both the consumer and the local artist.

Authentic African masks

Authentic African masks, tooled and crafted by traditional carvers, from South Africa, Gabon, Cameroon, Swaziland and Kenya have, for many years, been snaffled up by international visitors. The masks are not necessarily worn by their new owners but instead feature prominently on the walls of homes from New York to Paris.

A fine example of an authentic African mask is the ceremonial Punu mask from Gabon. Although each mask is totally original, reflecting the different styles of each craftsman, all Punu masks have distinctly oriental features and are exclusively black and white. The eastern nuance of the mask indicates Chinese traders were living and trading with West Africans eons before European settlers even set foot on the continent. These masks were allegedly worn by so-called secret societies during initiation ceremonies and when punishment was dealt out for a crime.

Tribal figurines

Tribal figurines, from all over Africa are another legendary choice of visiting tourists. Again, each country’s contribution has distinct characteristics, like sculptures originating from the Maasai people in Kenya reflecting the deep reds and oranges of the environment, their apparel and even the dyes they use in their hair.

Fertility Dolls

Fertility or Akuaba dolls from Ghana and other West African nations, although totally unique, all have similar features. All fertility dolls, regardless of their origin, have large round heads, large foreheads and cross-shaped bodies. These dolls are gifts given to women who want to fall pregnant as ‘practice’ babies. The recipient is expected to care for them as they would their own new-born baby.

Wooden wildlife carvings

Wooden carvings of Africa’s diverse and exotic wildlife are another hot pick, as are the ornamental shields made by the Zulu people of KwaZulu-Natal. Pottery, finely weaved baskets, colourful bead work and cleverly crafted wire art items are all high up on the tourist’s ‘I want’ list and would best be transported to their new homes by dedicated freight shipping.

by: Kayla Reid