Global Resorts Network Travel Source

with Molly Dalbec

January 3rd, 2009

Dubai: Culture and Policies

          Dubai, like any other country, has carved a rich culture within their society and history. Some of the most promising landmarks which lie within the city are now known throughout the world. Therefore, it is not only important that one visits the place but also understand its diverse uniqueness and why it should be acknowledged a treasure. Dubai has a multicultural and diverse society. Because of the different ethnics groups which came into the city, the homogenous community was industrialized. Despite of how diverse the population of Dubai has become, studies show that there is a minor and infrequent episodes of tensions which are reported.          Holidays in Dubai are most likely well-patterned with the Muslim calendar. Some of the major holidays would include: National Day, celebrated on the second day of December, which marks the legal formation of UAE; Eid al Fitr which is the last day of Ramadan.
          Entertainments that open up annually like the Dubai Summer Surprises and the Dubai Shopping Festival attracts over four million travelers or visitors across the globe which tends to generate insurmountable revenues. Gigantic shopping malls that flood the city like the Mall of Emirates, BurJuman, Ibn Battuta Mall and Deira City Center also tend to attract people from different parts of the world.
           The Dubai cuisine’s diversity is well reflected in the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the society. Arabian food is well known and is very much famous. What’s more interesting is that the cuisine varies from small diners to upscale restaurants bound in different hotels. Chinese and fast food are also popular and are pretty much available. Pork consumption is not well-tolerated by the natives although it is separately sold to tourists in some parts of the city. Alcoholic beverages are not prohibited though it is also regulated in such a way that only tourists and visitors who requests are the ones granted. To be able to consume alcohol, a liquor permit must be issued.
           Entertainment in Dubai is almost the same with the entire world population for Bollywood and Hollywood are both in demand. Annually, the city hosts the celebrated Dubai International Film Festival which entices celebrities to join coming from the Arab cinema and even the International field. When it comes to music, Dubai is actively participating with famous musicians like Diana Haddad, Celine Dion, Elton John, Aerosmith, Phil Collins and Santana having them perform within the city. Another major festival which gathers Arabs and visitors is the Dubai Desert Rock Festival which features music from rock to metal artists.
           Sports which are most popular in Dubai are cricket and football. The city hosted several matches dueling India and Pakistan. In the Dubai Sports City, two new grass grounds will be developed. The city also hosts tennis and golf tournaments which tend to attract different famous sport stars coming from other countries.After the sun sets, there’s the nightlife. Dubai is widely known for bars and clubs that are mostly located inside hotels because of the liquor law implementation. In a recent survey made by the New York Times, Dubai was recognized as one of the main travel choices for partying in the year 2008.

 

Alcohol in Dubai

 

           There have been speculations about rules and regulations governing the intake of alcohol in Dubai. For an establishment to be allowed to serve alcohol, it should obtain a permit which will be attached within its vicinity. Without the permits, it is not permissible that a particular club sells alcohol to either resident or tourist. Grounds for not observing the law is punishable by the government of Dubai.Because of Dubai being popular with the nightlife, a lot of tourists expect that liquor will be served in any establishment that they enter into. But that is a misconception although adherence to the law will not get you into trouble. Rules regarding alcohol are as follows:

 

1. A business establishment or venues for drinking should have with them permits to serve or sell alcohol or else consequences will be imposed.
2. Alcohol is prohibited to be sold during religious holidays celebrated by Dubai. Even in daylight hours of Ramadan and non-Muslims, alcohol will not be provided.
3. Drinking of alcohol in public places is strictly a no-no; whereas there is a zero-tolerance regulation on driving drunk. If anyone is caught on a head-on collision and was found out that the one driving is under the influence of alcohol, that person will stay for a month or more inside prison and pay a fine.
4. Alcohol is not sold in supermarkets; only non-alcoholic beverages are allowed. Therefore alcohol can only be bought from a licensed outlet mentioned by the government of Dubai. This will ensure that people will adhere to the policy of Dubai.
5. When visiting bars who are authorized to sell alcoholic beverages, it is a must to carry an identification card so that the management will tolerate you drinking alcohol. Minors who are considered having the age of 21 below are not allowed to go into bars.
           So far, alcohol is very much available to non-Muslims in all hotels and bars within Dubai. Some of the bars and clubs that allow drinking alcohol are the following:          Clubs like the Planetarium is housed for its stylish London accent. Ramada Hotel and Scream are warehouse-type venues which give out some of the latest scene in music to their ongoing crowds. Astoria Hotel has become an institution for club fanatics for it creates a mainstream choice of different kinds of music and shelters them with a restaurant wherein a live band plays.

Bars

A Rooftop Swimming Pool which is located at the top of Hilton Dubai Creek has a small bar but entails visitors to appreciate the beautiful sunset. The Terrace Bar, located inside Park Hyatt has a bar that touches the Creek. This is very much applicable for couples who would want to have a quiet, fine-dining time together because light music is played on the background. 360 degrees is a new addition to the Jumeirah Beach Complex. This location has an open bar which accumulates the outstanding views of the beach hotel. The Sky View bar which is inside Burj Al Arab has live bands – both international and local although reservations must be made before one can enter because of the demand in seating capacity.For those who are planning to spend their vacation in Dubai and wants to enjoy inside bars and clubs, it is very much advisable that one is identified as a non-Muslim before barging into drinking.

 

Driving Around Busy Dubai

          As a stranger, visiting a particular place puts up much stress and excitement. To make traveling easier, it is better that one has basic transportation in order to get around town more conveniently. Coming into Dubai, you must first know the rules of their traffic in order to get along well with the community and the regulations.           There is a standardized driving period in Dubai though sometimes, it gets to become abysmal. According to studies, Dubai has one of the highest death toll percentage related to car accidents or particularly the ones that happen on the highway. This is precipitated and otherwise exacerbated by the powerful resistance of luxurious and expensive cars who entitles their owners to run their cars like crazy.             Because of this problem, traffic regulations are now implemented to answer the call of driving issues in Dubai. Some of the new traffic rules and regulations are the following:
•    There will now be a fine of 20,000Dhs and a year’s stay in jail for those who will be caught drunk driving. That is just the minimum. This is the same rule when it comes to having a hit-and-run. Driving without appropriate license or a vehicle that is not licensed for will be penalized. The penalty has a minimum of 500Dhs and being in jail for about three months. Majority of fines regarding traffic offenses are increased.
•    Credit cards are not longer acceptable as payment for petrol stations like EPPCO, EMARAT and ENOC.
•    Dubai police will adhere to using radar guns to be able to find out if there is a violation to the rule of keeping the speed to a minimum (60km/hr). This was not yet enforced.
•    Owners of vehicles who give consent to unlicensed drivers to use their car will be penalized. This will include tourists who have no United Arab Emirates license.
•    For those who want to exchange their foreign license to be able to acquire a Dubai license, he or she must have at least 21 driving lessons and pass the driving test.
Driving in standard
            Typically, cars in Dubai are being driven left-handedly and traffic is expected to stay on the right side of the road.
Noting driving hazards
If you think camels are the main transportation fare, that would be unlikely because they are now seldom seen inside the vicinity of the city. On the other hand, camels are still considered dangerous due to the fact that camels don’t understand traffic rules and policies and therefore will not submit to any of it. If one accidentally hits a camel, it’s the driver’s fault. That is why, it is much better that camels are kept outside the city to save their lives as well. The dilemma when hitting a camel is that it is very much expensive. Aside from worrying about the front portion of your car, you would also worry about how to pay the owner of the camel. You have to remember that animals tend to topple down the road and move pretty fast. That is why; you have to take caution when driving.To be able to enjoy your stay in Dubai, you have to make sure that everything is under control most especially the way traffic goes. In this manner, driving around Dubai wouldn’t be much of a worry.
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January 1st, 2009

Having a Romantic Rendezvous in Dubai

       Wouldn’t it be so nice to visit one of the most romantic places in the world with the one you love? Imagine yourself wandering through the deserts of Arabia riding a camel headed for Dubai. For lovers and couples who have been finding for the right spot to enjoy their romantic rendezvous, Dubai is the perfect place to spend sweet moments together. Through the years, Dubai is considered as one of the most popular tourist spot for both national and international travelers.

Why Dubai?

        Why not? It has everything a lover’s heart may desire. This piece of land settling on the Gulf of Arabia has the capacity to attract all sorts of travelers coming from the Far East, Africa, and Europe and even from the United States. Some of the many reasons why people come to Dubai are due to: outstanding hotel, villa and resort accommodations, tax-free shopping, and exquisite taste in food, pristine and tranquil beaches and dry weather conditions.

        It is also considered as Middle East’s sports capital with its world-class horse racing, golf and tennis courts, power boating, sailing, and rally car racing. One of the main highlights or attractions in Dubai is the indoor snow skiing arena located inside the Mall of Emirates. Visitors have the chance to experience swooshing down mountain-sized slopes which has the size of 3 football fields. The Mall of Emirates is considered as one of the largest shopping centers all across the globe.

       While in Dubai, couples can do a lot of things – from shopping to fine dining down to just enjoying the richness of its history and culture.

 

Shopping Galore

        Foreigners come in Dubai typically to experience shopping at its best. One can buy native items strictly made by the people in the area or go strictly for designer clothes. Not only can one buy clothing at undeniably affordable prices but also purchase herbs and spices and even gold in such a bargain one will not refuse. The key in shopping within the area is how one negotiates down to the most acceptable offer.

        Aside from having the top choices in clothing, Dubai also has one of the top tailors who can replicate and bring out the best in sewing. For suggestions, ask your concierge about it. You can both choose a design perfect for you and at the same time have the fabric of your choice to a price not that frightening.

Dress code in Dubai

        Women are well-respected. That is why, one will notice that many women wore clothes and a burka that covers a majority of their face wherein only the part of the eyes are seen although most women wear Western clothing. Dress codes are not compulsory but it would be best if someone who is visiting Dubai can be less revealing (like covering shoulders) especially when roaming around public places.

Romantic Hotels

        After making the rounds within the city, one can ensure that the day ends in some of the most romantic hotels covering the place. Here, the couple can have the finest attention and service of a passionate and enchanting stay. Hotels in Dubai can vary from classic elegance to wooded lodge or a hidden picturesque cottage. Packages are very much available for those who are planning to make their stay less expensive and more accommodating.

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December 18th, 2008

What to Expect in a Food Tour in Southwest US?

       If the best way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, the same could also be said for places. For many people, the best way to know a place is to enjoy its food. If you’re planning to join a food tour in Southwest US, here’s what you can expect.

Hot, Hot, Hot!

       Utah, New Mexico, Nevada, Colorado, California, and Arizona, states which are located west of the Mississippi River, make up the Southwest region of the United States. Something hot is what all of them have in common and we’re not just talking about the weather, but their specialty dishes, too!

Oldest of All

       Southwest cuisine is said to be the oldest living indigenous cuisine in the United States. You can trace its roots beyond Plymouth Rock. People in the Southwest are vastly proud of the past so if you’re joining a food tour in the Southwest US, don’t be surprised if you get a brief history lesson along the way!

An Amalgamation of Everything

       If you want to be really specific, you should know that the term Southwestern cuisine is just too broad to define the rich variety of food compromising it. Food from the Southwest can be distinguished among various classes such as American Indian, Mexican, Tex-Mex, and nueva Latina, which is one of the newest additions to this growing regional cuisine. Knowing the difference is something natives always appreciate, maybe enough for a free beer!

Major Characteristics of Southwestern Food

       If you’re familiar with Mexican cuisine, you’ll probably notice immediately how similar Southwestern food is to it. The differences between both cuisines are subtle, from lesser use of brain, tripe, and other select ingredients to use of larger cuts of meat.

The Difference between Chili and Chile

       It’s crucial that you know the difference between the two or you might be in for an incredibly hot surprise and one that will get you running for the nearest gallon of water. Now, chile pertains to pepper native to the Southwest; these have long been considered a staple by the locals. Chili, on the other hand, pertains to a soup or stew containing meat and beans. Either way, be sure to let your server know if you’re not ready to have smoke come off your ears. Better safe than sorry!

Noteworthy Dishes from the Southwest US

       Your Southwest food tour could introduce you to a number of spectacular dishes, including but not limited to salsa, chimichanga, chili con carne, taco salad, rattlesnake fillet, pozole, burrito, sopapillas, rice and beans, menudo, chile relleno, nachos, stuffed peppers, taquitos, and King Ranch chicken.

Traditional versus Contemporary versus Upscale

       Now, food tours in the Southwest US can be generally classified into three kinds: traditional, contemporary, and upscale.

       Those on a budget could choose between traditional and contemporary Southwestern cuisine. Food tours focusing on traditional dishes often come with history-related side trips.

       For those willing to shell out more for a better and greater variety of food, there are high-end tours for contemporary and traditional Southwestern cuisine and of course, there are always the upscale and innovative restaurants to visit. New Mexico, which is the largest producer and consumer of chile in the country, also prides itself as the best state to go for upscale Southwestern cuisine.

       Ultimately, however, however you choose to explore the Southwest, a food tour is sure to give you more than a delicious taste of what this part of the United States has to offer.

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December 17th, 2008

How to Prepare for a Southwest US Food Tour

       Here are a few preparation tips to make the most out of your Southwest US food tour.

 

Have a Big Appetite

        The best way to do justice to any food tour is to have a big appetite. What’s the point of paying for the opportunity to taste the best food of a given area or culture when your stomach can’t accommodate more than a bite?

       Of course, having a big appetite doesn’t mean starving yourself the day before. Just make sure you don’t overeat the day before your tour. If possible, take a pill to ensure your stomach’s certifiably empty for the food fest ahead.

Prepare for the Heat

        Hot is a word often associated with the Southwest in more ways than one.

        Firstly, majority of the dishes of Southwest cuisine are extremely spicy. Chimichangas, nachos, taquitos, stuffed peppers, chile relleno, chili con carne, and salsa are just some of the well-known dishes that could get you hopping mad out of the restaurant with burning taste buds. If you’re not good at eating spicy stuff, make sure you have a small canister or jug of iced water with you at all times; there may be instances when you just can’t wait a second longer to cool your tongue off.

        Secondly, Southwestern states are not exactly the coldest areas of the country. The weather in this region, especially in Arizona and Texas, can be quite stifling in its heat. Be sure you’re dressed comfortably in light, airy clothing. Wearing a cap or sun visor as well as a pair of shades can help protect you from the heat.

        Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are always a possibility so, again, having a ready source of water with you at all times is encouraged.

 

Prepare for the Weather

        Speaking of the heat, there are also certain aspects of the weather that you might have to watch out for. Mosquitoes are a nominal but irritating problem, but one that a mosquito repellent can easily cure. Rainfall could also be cause trouble, but not if you come prepared with a raincoat and umbrella.

 

Clothing

        While we’re in the topic of clothing, be sure to ask your tour organizer if you’ll visit any place with a requisite dress code. Knowing what to dress can also help ensure that you pack light for your Southwest US tour.

 

Bring First Aid with You

        Tour organizers always have first aid kits with them, but there’s no telling when you’ll find yourself lost and separated from your group. As such, it would do you no harm to have your own first aid kit with you.

        Now, if you’ve considerable experience traveling, you might already have a first aid kit packed with your things. There are, however, extra things you could add to your kit in consideration of “special dangers” you might face during your Southwest US tour.

        If your tour includes a trip to the desert, antidotes for snake bites and medication for other kinds of bites (remember: scorpions and spiders can cause harm, too!). High altitude sickness or acute mountain sickness (AMS) is also a possibility if your food tour includes a short but challenging mountain climb.

 

Double Check Everything

        Lastly, review your travel checklist a few days before you leave for your tour. Call your tour organizer to ensure that everything’s fine in their side as well.

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December 12th, 2008

Spots to Visit When in the Southwestern US

Southwest Food

        Going to the US Southwest on a food tour? You don’t have to look for a travel agency to tell you where to go and which restaurants to visit. In fact, if you already know the great places to eat, and if you already know where you want to stay, all you need to do is get in your car and do your visiting yourself! There are many places to visit in the Southwest, and going on a food tour will allow you to enjoy the cuisine while hopping from destination to destination.

 

        If you’re for the big cities, then go on a city tour while on your food tour of the Southwest. You can visit the stars in Hollywood and simply go shopping on the posh streets of Los Angeles. While you are in California, you can go to the local amusement parks, Disneyland and Universal Studios, and have a bit of fun, especially if you are bringing children along. You can also see the sights in Dallas and San Antonio, where a whole lot of history can make your food trip all the more enriching. If you’re going on a romantic holiday, try Las Vegas or Reno for some gambling fun.

 

        Food tours don’t just happen in the big cities: the Southwestern US has a picturesque countryside that has a whole lot of character, not to mention diversity. You can comb through the wine valley of California, with its rolling hills and lush vineyards. You can go through the canyons and mesas of Colorado and Arizona, trek through the rocks and go whitewater rafting on the rough rivers. You can trek the mountains of New Mexico and experience the culture of the American Indians. You can relax by the fields of Oklahoma, and go through the roads of the Southwest as thought every day were a lazy Sunday afternoon.

 

        If you are planning a food trip to the Southwest, be sure to check all particulars so that you can go through your tour smoothly. First, if you are sensitive to spicy foods, you may need to ask your tour operator if they are offering non-spicy alternatives that you can still try while on the food tour. Second, ask about lodgings and payment and what amenities are included in your travel package. Third, ask about the weather: although the Southwest is relatively temperate, temperatures can soar up at different times of the year.

 

        There are several important national parks in the US Southwest. You can visit the Grand Canyon in Arizona, or even walk through a forest of redwoods in their special protected region of Sequoias in California. You can visit old army forts in Texas, or go through pueblos in New Mexico. There are many places that you can go to, and many places that you can eat at. In fact, if you want to walk away with more knowledge about the cuisine, you can enroll in any of several cooking schools in the area, which also offer short courses that include treks through mountains and tours through the surrounding cities!

 

        These are only a few places that you might want to stop by at when you go on a food tour through the American Southwest. For more information, talk to your tour guide or to a local travel agency about what other options are available to you. With a lot of research on your part, you can certainly enjoy your food tour through this historic section of the United States.

 

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November 30th, 2008

Cheap Vacation Destination - New England Coast

Traveling to New England doesn’t have to be expensive. If you’ve got a tight budget, here are a few tips to keep your spending to a minimum while enjoying the best that New England has to offer.

Cheap Accommodations

Lodgings are often a traveler’s biggest financial hurdle, but the following Bed & Breakfasts are sure to fit right in your budget.

cheap accomodations new england

  • The Chapman Inn Bed and Breakfast, Maine

If you visit New England off season, you could grab a room here for as low as $59. But even if you do happen to travel at the height of the season, accommodations are still not as expensive at $99 per night and may even include full gourmet breakfast. In-room Internet is also available.

  • The Inn at Buck Hollow Farm, Vermont

Choose among The Yellow, Foliage, and Blue rooms and pay just $93 for any of the rooms. They’re good for two and keep you in comfort with four-poster beds and country breakfasts. The inn also comes with a fireplace-heated sunroom, an antique shop, an outdoor Jacuzzi, and a heated pool. If you’re on a solitary journey, you can save $10 on accommodations.

  • Maplecroft Bed & Breakfast, Vermont

Do you have a couple of impressive sleight-of-hand tricks up your sleeve? Any quilting or librarian skills? Because if you do, this late 1800’s Victorian B&B’s willing to give you a 10% discount, making its $88 room even cheaper!

Free Attractions and Activities in New England

Now that you’ve got the problem of accommodations out of the way, here are several suggestions as to where you can enjoy your New England vacation without spending a dime.
  • Anheuser-Busch Brewery and the Clydesdale Hamlet, New HampshireAnheuser-Busch Brewery

Beer enthusiasts will no doubt be keen to drop by the Anheuser-Busch Brewery as it’s in this place where they can finally meet the Budweiser Clydesdales, arguably the most famous equines in the beverage industry.
Brewery tours – free! – are offered and those of legal age can also enjoy free beer samples while they’re at it. Non-drinkers, meanwhile, can explore the brewery’s lovely stables.
  • Freedom Trail, BostonFreedom Trail

Enjoy the best sights of Boston – the 2 ½ mile walk lets you enjoy the sights of sixteen famous landmarks in the area – while giving yourself a healthy amount of exercise at the same time. The Old State House, the Old South Meeting House, and the Paul Revere House are also optional attractions you could pay for while trekking the Freedom Trail.
  • Stephen Huneck’s Dog Chapel, VermontDog Chapel

Man and his four-legged best friend will be equally delighted visiting this place. If you’ve traveled to New England with your pet dog, make sure to take him to Dog Chapel, the closest thing a canine can ever have here to doggie paradise. The picturesque 400-acre property comes with swimming ponds, nature trails, and other landscape wonders that are sure to delight your pet. Meanwhile, you can have fun too exploring the stained glass beauty and perfect craftsmanship of Dog Chapel in Dog Mountain and its art gallery.
  • US Navy Submarine Force Museum and USS Nautilus, ConnecticutUSS Nautilus

Visitors of all ages are sure to have a blast – not literally of course – in this Connecticut attraction. The museum not only houses an incredible cornucopia of submarine artifacts, but it also entertains guests with a replica of the first submarine in the world and let them experience “assuming” control of such a vessel. You can also watch films about past and present submarines and peer into a periscope.
While there, make sure you don’t miss the free audio tour offered all year round aboard the world’s 1st nuclear-powered submarine – also the first one to travel the proverbial 20,000 leagues under the sea - the USS Nautilus.

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November 25th, 2008

Best Destinations for a European Holiday with Friends

     If ever you and your friends think about going on a continental road trip, head to Europe.  This continent has some of the best places for adventure and sightseeing, perfect for two weeks’ or even a month’s worth of travel with friends.  Here are some of the best European holiday destinations that you might want to check out:

 

Amsterdam, Holland

      Amsterdam is a well-loved European holiday destination. It is perfect if you’re in the company of free-spirited friends who want a hip and happening Amsterdam, Hollandplace to have fun in.  Book a houseboat if you can and then take a walk around the city to explore all its possibilities.  You could also opt to get to know the area using a bike.  This is one of the most popular modes of transportation here.  Don’t worry too much about uphill climbs because this city is predominantly flat.
      So what are the things that you can you look forward to?  Food, all the colors of tulips that you could ever want, the Van Gogh Museum, the famous cafes and canals, the Rijksmuseum and the notorious red light district.  Amsterdam is also the city where Anne Frank’s house is located, a place that you and your friends might want to drop by to visit while you’re in the area.

 

London, England

      London is not for penny-pinchers but it’s the perfect place to be if you want to hear how English used to be spoken.  London is a city bustling with activity.  It has history, culture, taste and music all rolled into one.  This city offers plenty of excellent adventures for a group of friends who:London Bridge
-    want to know what English ale drunk in a real English bar tastes like
-    want to experience Shakespeare retold in an English setting
-    want to get a glimpse at how the world’s oldest monarchy lives
-    want to relive the lives of many of the characters you only encountered during English literature class
-    want to visit the famed English countryside
      These and so much more you and your friends will love about London.  It would be best to come in May until September or October.  No, that won’t help you avoid the rain, but those are the months that you and your friends will get to know and ultimately love this European city.

Madrid, Spain

      For most of the year, this bustling Spanish city boasts of good, sunny Madrid, Spainweather, although you might prefer to go during spring.  Many of the activities and parties that are well-loved by the Spaniards begin in March and April.

 

      Madrid is excellent if you and your friends want to explore (and surprise) your taste buds.  The restaurant scene is active, giving you plenty of choices about where and what to eat.

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Rome and Florence, Italy

      If you and your friends are art lovers, then you should consider a European holiday destination in these two cities.  One should give you ample experience in Rome, Italyhigh aesthetics but why make do with it if you can have two, right?  Your Renaissance painters and sculptors made a home here and you’ll find some of the world’s most famous art works in their museums.

 

      Friends who are architecture buffs will also have a fine time in these favorite European holiday destinations.  Many of the places that tourists like you ought to see in Rome and Florence are either free or charge very cheap fees.  Come in spring or fall, as these places, particularly Rome, can be very hot during summer.

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November 25th, 2008

What to Bring For A Holiday Vacation in Europe

Pack lightly but efficiently for your upcoming trip to Europe using these tips:

 Clothing According to Climate

     An extra sweater, a light raincoat, and a compact umbrella will get you anywhere in Europe, but additional changes to your wardrobe could better prepare you for the varying weather of this lovely continent.

     Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, and Finland make up Northern Europe. This region has the best summers in the continent, not too hot but not too cold either. Winters can be quite harsh, but never extremely so, especially when you head to its southern areas. This is also the place where you can witness and experience the Midnight Sun, a phenomenon which keeps the sun on sight 24/7 for the duration of the summer.
travel essentials

     Climate varies a lot in Eastern and Central Europe, which is made up by Ukraine, Switzerland, Slovenia, Slovakia, Romania, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Hungary, Germany, Estonia, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, and Austria. Summers may be warm to cool while winters are humid, cloudy, and can be moderate to cold.

     Luxembourg, Ireland, Holland, France, the UK, and Belgium make up Western Europe. This region has mild winters but experience a considerable amount of rain. It also has moderate summers, but they get cooler as you head north.

     Finally, you can enjoy the hottest, not to mention driest, summers if you move down to Mediterranean and Southern Europe, which consists of Turkey, Spain, Portugal, Monaco, Malta, Italy, Greece, the southern region of France, Cyprus, and Croatia. Spring and fall brings in rain while winters are quite mild.

Books

     Phrase books in non-English speaking countries are a must; knowing the right way to say ‘hello’, ‘good morning’, and ‘how much’ can get you a long way. Having guidebooks or even just small travel maps with you are a must; you’re less likely to waste time looking for things to do, places to visit, and wondering which lanes are two-way.

Converters

     Not all European accommodations can offer converters for whatever electronic gadgets and chargers you’ve brought with you. It’s better to have one or two converters with you to ensure that your mobile phone, camera, and laptop are fully charged at all times.

Pocket Sewing Kit

     Even if you don’t know how to sew, crises have a way of making you acquire new skills. A sewing kit can save torn buttons and other clothing mishaps, preventing you from the unnecessary expense of buying new clothes.

Toiletries

     In the interest of hygiene and convenience, it’s best to bring your own toothbrush and toothpaste, travel-sized soaps, shampoos, and shaving kit, and extra sets of medications.

Daily Essentials

     Your personal care kit should include a hand sanitizer, moisturizer, sun block, lip balm, mosquito repellent, combs and clips, basic makeup like powder and mascara, napkins, panty liners, and decongestant.

     Take a laundry kit with you even if you’re staying in hotels and resorts. It should include travel detergents, a sink stopper, a braided clothesline, several clothesline clips, and a travel iron.

Emergency Essentials

     If you have vision problems, make sure to take with you an extra set of disposable contact lenses as well as an extra pair of glasses if you have any. Pills for motion sickness, diarrhea, and indigestion should also be included in your first-aid kit.

Travel Essentials

     Lastly, make sure you have an adequate amount of cash with you as well as all your ID, credit, and ATM cards. Double-check to ensure your travel papers, plane tickets, and reservation sheets are complete. Don’t forget your driver’s license and passport!

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November 18th, 2008

SAFETY TIPS FOR A SECURE AND ENJOYABLE EUROPEAN HOLIDAY VACATION

     Europe has so much to offer that probably the only things that could damper your spirits would be a bad weather and safety risks.  Although no destination is 100 percent safe, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be able to enjoy your European holiday to the fullest.  Here are 6 safety tips you can use to make sure that you have a secure and fun European holiday destination:

1. Book only with trusted and established travel agencies.

     Don’t try to save a few dollars by booking a vacation with an agency you’ve never heard of before.  That way, you can be assured that there will be no problems about your travel papers or your accommodations.

2. Protect your belongings.

     Probably the number one safety concern that most tourists have during a European holiday – or any holiday, for that matterluggage – is loss of belongings.  When you’re carrying money or valuables, you’re fair game to pickpockets, thieves and other local criminals.

If possible, try to carry as few bags as you can when you travel.  That way, you don’t have to a lot to worry about.  Keep all valuables in a bag that’s close to your body.  Avoid individuals or groups that seem suspicious.

3. Don’t draw too much attention.

     Leave the bling at home and use only the most important stuff during your European holiday.  A cheap watch should suffice or if you have to wear any jewelry at all, use only a pair of stud earrings.  Wear clothing that’s similar to those worn by the locals.  Avoid shirts that advertise strong political or ethical views.  Try to look as neutral as possible to avoid becoming an easy target. 

4. Familiarize yourself with the local area.

     Just because you’re a stranger to the area doesn’t excuse you from being uninformed.  Prior to your trip, go online and seek out information about your European destination.  You could also look for tips and advice in online forums or go to websites that offer tours of the area – they will often post information about the place that you can use.

Buy a map and try to familiarize yourself with the area.  Check where your hotel is located on the map and try to locate the areas you plan to visit.  Look at landmarks, roads, streets and buildings in relation to your hotel.  You might also want to locate police stations and public information offices so you’ll know where to run to in case you encounter any problems.

5. Don’t do what you won’t normally do at home.

     Even if you’re back home in familiar grounds, you wouldn’t france mapwalk into a dark, deserted alley, would you?  You also wouldn’t allow a total stranger to accost you or take you to an area that’s unfamiliar. 

Even with a map or a GPRS, you might find many of the local places in Europe difficult to navigate.  Since you’re not a local, there are plenty of little streets and alleyways that you might want to steer away from.  Best stick to main thoroughfares and roads where there are more people and tourists like you.

6. Avoid picking up a fight.

     You know what they say: ‘When in Rome, do as the Romans do.’  Don’t try to argue with the locals regarding their practices or try to disparage their culture.  It’s not your right to do.  As a tourist, you came to your European holiday destination to see the sights and enjoy yourself – not to change things or lecture the residents.  In case of tension or confrontation, it’s best to just simply walk away.

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November 18th, 2008

How to Prepare for a European Holiday Vacation

Steps to help you prepare and map out your first vacation to Europe

 Step 1: Making General Plans

Prior to your preferred vacation date, plan as early as six months. Make a list of places that you wish to visit. Travel PlanConsider the amount of free time you can allocate to your vacation and make sure you have at least a day or two to dedicate to a single city to make the most out of it.

Start learning the various foreign languages you expect to speak when you finally head off to Europe. Overcoming language barriers will help save money in more ways than one.

Step 2: Start Paying

Once you’ve got your itinerary for your European vacation ready, you should start making arrangements for your flight. Shop online for the best airfare deals. airfare dealsBe sure you know the dates of public holidays as they could make a significant impact on your travel plans. Besides the usual holidays, Europe also celebrates Assumption Day on August 15 and the Epiphany on January 6. Munich has Oktoberfest, but celebrations could start as early as September while Venice has Carnevale on February.

Allocate three months for preparing paperwork if you need to renew your passport or apply for visa. This is also the best time to start shopping for shoes that can get you around Europe, walking the cobbled lanes of old English town and cross the thresholds of the best French restaurants.

If possible, transact with just one or two persons for your travel arrangements. This would entitle you to more discounts. Advanced bookings for accommodations would also help you in saving money. Remember that your choices aren’t limited to just rooms and suites of hotels and resorts. You can also rent out cabins, lofts, apartments, cottages, and condo units.

Step 3:  Choose Your Method of Transportation

If you are proficient with right-hand driving then you can save a lot of money by renting out a car; make sure your rental dates coincide with your arrival and London Undergrounddeparture date on the cities you’ll visit.

Transportation, however, can also be an adventure. You might be familiar with the Metro in Paris and the Underground in London, but are you aware of the trams, buses, and the T-bana in Stockholm? In Venice, you’ll have to ride the waterbus or vaporetto – and yes, there are always gondolas for scenic tours – and funiculars in Lisbon.

Rail systems can be quite complex in the large cities so make sure you have your map with you at all times. Purchase a multi-day or daily pass as well as frequent checks because they offer greater traveling convenience.

Step 4: Start Packing

Yes, it’s now time to pack and your motto shouldn’t be ‘pack everything possible’ in case of emergencies but to ‘pack lightly’ for traveling convenience. Yes, it’s nice Pack your thingsthat you prefer to pack for all sorts of emergencies, but if such items are also sold in Europe then it’s best not to pack them with you.

Choose clothing that will provide you the appropriate protection from whatever weather you expect to greet you in Europe. Make a list and be sure to double and triple-check it every week and until the day prior to your departure date. Register your travel arrangements with the State Department and make photocopies of your passport, ID cards, and other pertinent papers.

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