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
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
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
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Famous People of Switzerland
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
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Understanding Who Is Responsible For What At An Airport
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
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
10 Luggage Tips for Travelers
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
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
If You Travel You Have Been Ripped Off While Renting A Car, And You Didn’t Even Know It
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
Friday, July 10, 2009
Explore Nice In France – How Car Travel Makes For a Memorable Holiday
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
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Camping – An Economical and Eco-Friendly Alternative for Your Next Family Vacation
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