Posts Tagged ‘travel’

Reason Why Guatemala Is A Great Touristic Destination

Wednesday, September 8th, 2010

Have you ever thought of traveling to Guatemala? If not I’m sure you don’t know about all the great things this country has to offer. Let me give you a general idea of what is:

First there is the astonishing cultural diversity of this country. It is home to several Mayan communities. But that’s not all, whether you want to watch the natural beauty of the lakes, volcanoes, jungles, black sanded beaches; the living culture of the modern Mayan or the Ancient Maya Civilizations remaining cities, Guatemala has it all in a very small place.

For such a small country it has a very varied landscape. In only 109 thousand Km2 you will find the most varied things. But the size is not what’s important because it hosts 37 volcanoes (many of them are active); several mountain ranges; 35 river systemseach with lots of small creeks that flow into 3 different oceans. There are 6 beautiful major lakes and almost 1,000 smaller lakes. When it comes to bio diversity there are 4 major climatic regions that contain 14 life zones with over 8,000 species of plants and more than 1,500 species of animals.

Want so more facts about Guatemala?

This country lies on top of the junction of 3 tectonic plates, moving in different directions, pushing against each other. That’s the reason for its particular landscape. A volcanic range runs parallel to the Pacific coast, which is why the sand of these beaches is black. On the other hand the central part of the country is characterized by highlands and mountains that are the result of the Earth’s crust folding due to the pressure of the plates. Finally the Northern and Eastern regions rest on a limestone bedrock, which favors the formation of caves, sink holes, and travertine pools such as the famous Lanquin Caves.

I bet that after reading this Guatemala will be in your must visit list.

Marina K. Villatoro, the Travel Experta, has been living in Central America – Costa Rica and Guatemala for over 10 years. She has traveled here extensively. Now loves organizing vacations to this amazing part of the world, having first hand experience of all the places with her family. Contact her for advice and to plan your perfect trip!

Exotic Twin Centre Holidays In Cuba

Monday, September 6th, 2010

Discovering a new style of travel, much is to be said about the Twin Centre Holidays to Cuba. The great thing about it is the excellent service provided for travelers. When booking a package this way, all the tiny details are done for you by the eager staff. Nothing beats great service when on vacation.

Taking control of your touring arrangements by allowing the experts to do it for you means more time for doing what people do while in the Caribbean! discovering accommodation that is appropriate to your personal requirements, organising airport transfers in Havana and obtaining the right flight for the right price and comfort you want is all provided for you.

While on the island people choose an assortment of mix and match activities such as a coastal vacation and visiting historic attractions or taking ecological explorations of the Archipelago. Surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean and tow peninsula’s Cuba’s unaffected loveliness resides near the Tropic of Cancer.

Some of the ecological discovery tours involve walking through the people friendly environment of the wetlands. Situated in the east, the natural forest areas are full of harmless beauty. The flora and fauna are as you would expect, lush green and exotic.

A trip around the local markets will bring a surprising amount of hand crafted dolls and souvenirs to your attention. The political vibe is very pronounced with promotional T shirts featured abundantly in the artisan marketplace. Cuban Cigars and coffee are another highlight of a tourist’s shopping venture.

Twin Centre Holidays in Cuba are a real treat not to be missed. Let the experts do all the travel arrangements for you while you simply decide what adventures you want to take. It is sure to make for a very relaxing vacation.

For further information on Havana Hotels please visit Holidays to Cuba web site by J. M. Maurette

Traveling To Australia? Here’s What You Need To Know

Saturday, September 4th, 2010

Australia offers options for everyone. It can be challenging for unprepared visitors. If you are considering traveling here, you need to know some things.

Firstly, remember that the southern hemisphere’s seasons are reversed, making it ideal for the northern hemisphere’s travelers to visit during their summer break. Even in winter – April through September – temperatures in Australia will vary between 66 and 88 degrees Fahrenheit. Days will be warn, but nights are cold.

Also consider the size. Traveling from Sydney to Perth by car will take the better part of a week, so if you plan to see a lot of the country, you may want to consider local flights rather than long drives.

The big cities provide entertainment, dining, shopping and sightseeing that will keep any visitor busy for weeks. Each city has it’s own charm.

Be prepared for harsh landscape and conditions if you plan to visit the Outback. You should experience off roading, or else join a guided trip. Distances can be long, and it would not be good to get stuck.

You will see many unique animals. Some of these animals can be unfriendly. Use insect repellent.

Australia has many beautiful beaches. There are sting rays and sharks everywhere, so only swim in marked areas. The Great Barrier Reef will be a once in a lifetime experience.

Most states in Australia have 24-48 hour free camping sites. The sites may offer toilets and picnic tables, or nothing. National Parks should also offer affordable camping.

You will experience an informal friendly atmosphere, and natural beauty. Just don’t forget your sunscreen – the Australian sun is unforgiving and relentless, even in mid-winter.

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Great Vacations At Home

Thursday, September 2nd, 2010

Keeping an eye on your budget during your time off from work can be a challenge, particularly during a sluggish economy. It used to be that families traveled on vacation, spending money on airfare, hotels, and restaurants while away from home, but more and more people are keeping it low-key. You might find that the answer for you is to look into a staycation this year instead of a vacation.

Give one room of your house a whole new look by updating it during your staycation. Get daring with color, polishing fixtures and reconfiguring the furniture layout. Turn your bedroom into an oasis and add romantic touches, like red velvet pillows and fresh flowers in a gem-studded vase. You’ll be amazed at the difference a few accessories can make in your room.

Make it a day of culture by visiting museums, libraries, and local art galleries. Tour historic sites in your area and read up on what your city or state is famous for. If you’re in New Jersey, look into why it’s called the “Garden State.” For Missouri, check out why your state is called the “Show me State.” There’s always a story worth hearing, so make a day of it and get an education in the process.

During your week off, at least one day should be considered total “you-time.” Get self-indulgent for once and hit a day spa, and while you’re there, get a manicure and pedicure. Since you’re off the clock, how about a nice deep-tissue massage to really relax you? Consider getting your hair done in a totally new style, perhaps even changing the color. A bold gesture, if you’re up for it, is to try out a henna tattoo.

Set a theme to be followed on each night of your week off. ‘Picture day” would entail seeing a movie at the theatre, complete with popcorn and candy, then a rented movie for later that night. Before the day is over, get out your digital camera and capture that beautiful sunset. “Animal day” could start off with a visit to the zoo, then a night of watching animal shows on t.v. “Sports day” could be a day of throwing the football around with your kids, then renting “Rudy” to watch later on.

Check the local weather forecast and, if it’s going to be a nice day, get outside and get physical. Consider hiking, which will get you out into nature and will get your blood pumping, or camping out under the stars. Try to gather a group of friends who will camp out with you without the technological gadgets we’ve all come to rely on so you can be in touch with nature and each other while enjoying a night under the stars.

Money is always a factor when we think about a vacation, but you don’t need to spend a fortune to find fun during your time off from work. With a bit of research, you can find interesting sights to visit in your town and you can have a fabulous stay at home vacation you’ll really enjoy.

Ellen Parsons has written dozens of articles on accredited online colleges and online universities for mid-career professionals.

The Best Timeshare Companies Are No Way Near As Good As This!

Tuesday, August 17th, 2010

When you are on vacation, it’s easy to get caught up in the ease of life and the beauty of a beautiful location. That is why many travelers choose to purchase timeshares to ensure that they can return to their favorite vacation spot year after year. Some of the best timeshare companies offer mount top retreats, pristine beaches, and exotic locales to tempt vacation goers.

Unfortunately, the one thing that even the best timeshare companies cannot offer is the option to choose a variety of getaway locations every year. When you buy into a timeshare, you become a partial owner in a condo or vacation home. This means that you will pay upfront for a piece of the property and will also pay annual fees in the form of membership charges and property tax. It also means that just as you can’t decide on a whim to abandon your year-round home, you also can’t abandon your time share property without finding someone to purchase your ownership stake.

There are familiesare that are happy to return to the same vacation spot every year, and for those types of families, a timeshare can be a great option. But what if your family wants to fly off to a different resort each year? If this is the case maybe you should consider purchasing a vacation club rather than a timeshare to gain flexibility in your travel plans.

Vacation clubs function in a variety of ways. The easiest-to-use vacation clubs require just one up font payment. After the one time payment, you can just enjoy all of the club’s properties across the planet at a fantastic price. The key is that you and your family have the complete freedom to choose different vacation destinations every single year.

If your family is ready to explore the world, forget the best timeshare companies and start looking at vacation clubs for a flexible vacation alternative.

Even the best timeshare companies,will not offer you the same flexibity and choice you get from a vacation club. So be sure to take a closer look before committing to becoming a timeshare owner.

Guide To Tipping Practices Around The World

Saturday, August 14th, 2010

If you are an avid world traveler or are planning to take a trip to another country, one part of the trip that can be confusing is how much should be given as a ‘tip.’ It can be confusing figuring out how much of a tip to give for good service and you also want to make sure that you don’t end up leaving a big tip for bad service, especially when considering the foreign exchange. To help you figure out the best tipping practices, the following is a guide to tipping around the world.

Canada: When visiting Canada, it is suitable to leave a tip of 15 – 20 percent at a restaurant, 10 – 20 percent at a bar, and 10 – 20 per cent for taxi drivers. At establishments such as coffee shops, there is normally a tip jar by the cash register where customers can drop a few coins in the jar. For hotels, it is appropriate to tip maids at $1 – $2 per day, the concierge a small amount at check out, and room service at about 15%.

United States: When visiting the US, it is appropriate to leave 20% at restaurants, 20% at bars, pocket change at a cashier tip jar, and at a take out restaurant, between $2 and $5. For taxi drivers, it is standard to leave $2 for a $5- fare and $3 for a $10- fare. Any higher taxi fare, the tip is about 20%. For hotels, tipping is as follows: maids: $5 to $10/night, room service: about $20%, and concierge: $10 for making any arrangements such as reservations, and $5 for providing information.

Mexico: For restaurants in Mexico, sometimes the bill includes the tip. If it does not include the tip, 10% – 15% is appropriate. At a bar, 10% of the total or $1 to $2 per round of drinks is suitable. For hotels, tips include: bellmen $1-$2 per bag, concierge $5 – $10 for making arrangements, maid $3 – $5 per day, valet $1 – $2, and a taxi driver is about a few dollars.

Caribbean: For all inclusive resorts and hotels, the price will include the tip. For restaurants, it is about 10%, and bars about 15% of the total bill or $1 per drink. For taxi drivers, tipping is about $1 – $2 and more for holidays, Sundays, and late night fares. For hotels, maids are about $2 per day, valets are a few dollars, and bellmen are about $1-$2 per bag.

Europe: Many European countries do not expect tips. In France, a service charge is included, however, for really good service, it is suitable to add a 10 -15% tip. As well, it is fine to leave change at a caf. In the UK and Ireland, a service charge will be included at hotels and restaurants, however, for really great service, you can add 10%. In the UK and Ireland, people do not tip in pubs. Tipping is not expected in Germany, Portugal, Italy, and Spain; however, 10% can be added for great service. For taxi drivers, it is appropriate to tip about 10%. For European hotels, it is suitable to tip two Euros for maids and porters.

Every country has its own criteria regarding tipping. It is always helpful and prevents misunderstandings when you know what to tip so that you can have a relaxing and fun vacation. Remember, the people waiting on you work hard, and the tip you provide will likely help their family.

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Hotels In Gozo Are Best For Vacation

Saturday, August 7th, 2010

Malta is one of the preferred destinations for beach holidays in Europe, being a favorite vacation spot, especially for Irish and British tourists. This happens because there are many common things between holiday makers from these two countries and the Maltese people such as historical facts (Malta obtained the independence from the UK in 1964), the language (beside Maltese, English is the second official language of the country) and the circulation rules, to enumerate just a few of them. Of course, Malta is visited by vacationers from many other countries, actually from the entire world, attracted by the year-round splendid weather, rich historical remains, specific cultural heritage, gorgeous beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent accommodation offered by most resorts and hotels in Malta.

Malta is an archipelago which lies in the heart of Mediterranean Sea (93 kilometers – 58 miles – off the coast of Sicily, Italy), being comprised by several islands, three bigger (Malta, Gozo and Comino) and other smaller, uninhabited islets – Cominotto, Filfla, Fungus Rock, Manoel Island, and Islands of St. Paul (Selmunett Island).

There are also a few rocks, populated only by seabirds. Most tourists are landing or debarking on the main islands, especially on island of Malta and island of Gozo, because there are settled the main towns of the country and the best resorts where can be spent excellent holidays in luxurious hotels and villas, many of them having private pools.

Gozo, the second largest island of archipelago after island of Malta, attracts many vacationers, even if it is considered as having a more rural atmosphere. Perhaps this fact, beside the scenic hills that can be seen everywhere, draws there tourists seeking a more relaxed and peaceful holiday. Hotels in Gozo are not so many as on the bigger island of Malta, but it offer also great accommodation, good services and many vacation amenities. Some of the best holiday resorts in Gozo are Hotel Kempinski, Hotel Ta’Cenc (both being 5 star hotels), Grand Hotel, Hotel Cornucopia (4 star hotels), and Hotel Down Town (3 star accommodation unit).

As any other Mediterranean country, Malta attracts foremost people interested in spending beach holidays, but in the same time to this destination travel a lot of people interested in spending cultural vacations. The multitude of medieval buildings, churches, military fortifications, and other remains are spots which draw to Malta many tourists of all ages. Some of the main places where go the visitors during a holiday on Gozo are the Aurora Theater, the Astra Theater, the Cathedral Church of Gozo, St. George’s Basilica and Parish, Santwarju tal-Madonna ta’ Pinu, the Inland Sea, the Fungus Rock, the Azure Window, Ramla Bay, and Fontana Springs.

On the island can be found also many restaurants serving excellent Maltese dishes (like stuffed globe artichokes, fried rabbit, baked beef olives, spaghetti with octopus sauce, baked macaroni, or kosksu with broad beans), coffee shops, bars, and a multitude of shops where can be found many local products.

Read my latest articles on The beautiful place of Gozo and do check out my website for my other Travel Articles .

The Night Time Is The Right Time In The Yucatan

Monday, August 2nd, 2010

Part 2 in a series of 4 articles.

In our last commentary we talked about the coastal yucatan area south of Playa del Carmen and in the area of Tulum. In this column we can focus on Playa plus the recreational activities around this flourishing beachfront Caribbean town. What began as a quiet and small Mexican fishing community, has promptly evolved into one of the best travel destinations in the yucatan. Back in the early 90’s we visited that sleepy little village and I can say first hand it is a far cry from what it is today. Popularity brings growth and change, but if you are desiring for a wonderful get-away and tons of fun, Playa is the spot.

Playa nowadays represents a Caribbean destination that has it all. From world class shopping on the famed 5th Avenue to a number of adventure parks, first class Playa del Carmen hotels and all-out resorts to hip-hop clubs and dining alternatives to satiate even the most sensitive appetites. Whether by daylight or night, you should find no shortage of things to do in Playa del Carmen!

Playa is a lot more than just kilometers away from the modest Tulum hotels and eco-chic cabana resorts you will find further down the coast, but it still remains a beautiful, active and culturally rich location to visit. By daytime, the area gives you some of the best people viewing that exists in Mexico, whether or not on the broad caribbean beaches or on the 5th Avenue walking mall you can see a extensive range of company from all over the world. There is so much to do and see in this conveniently placed modest city, being a quick boat ride to Cozumel for a terrific day trip for snorkeling or scuba or heading up the coastline 30 minutes to the city of cancun for even more options.

Playa during the day means beach runs, snorkel and SCUBA tours, daylight jungle safaris, adventure theme parks, golf and great shopping. In the night time it brings out the untamed side in most who embark out beneath the illumination of the moon. Along with the first class restaurant choices there are at least 12 dance-clubs that are attractive to the late night dancing and party crowds. Still accepted as a fun family vacation choice, Playa del Carmen is quickly establishing itself as a rival for Cancun with the dance party amusement options. A couple of locations you may get the urge to visit for the dance-life include; CoCo Bongo for outstanding stage shows with gifted music cover bands, The Blue Parrot for the fire shows on Friday and Saturday nights, OM Playa for a beer in comfort and La Santanera for a hip music club.

Whether by day or nightlife, with family, a twosome or single traveler, Playa del Carmen really offers something for everybody that is looking for a little or a lot of the caribbean in their holiday. In our next article we will head inland and observe the wonders of the mayan world and culture of Merida and the surrounding areas. There is zero shortage of fun and exhilaration when it comes to travel on the Yucatan!

Ron Williams has been a freelance adventure critic staying year round within Tulum, Mexico specializing in vacation info about playa del carmen hotels mexico plus life in the Yucatan Peninsula. Feel free to drop a line to Ron directly if you would like local recommendations as well as information for experiencing a tremendous journey inside Yucatan.

New Park Lodging Singapore Reviews

Friday, July 30th, 2010

Singapore is a fun travel destination consisting of 63 islands including the one that is the mainland Singapore. It is a city with a highly developed economy and has significant firms in a number of areas like drilling, electronics, biomedical sciences and many others. It is a very business friendly economy and one of the largest trading centers and foreign exchange trading centers in the world.

Singapore is a popular traveler’s paradise and tourism remains one of its major industries. It is also a hub in the area of medical tourism, and has numerous opportunities in the healthcare industry for people as well. The currency here is the Singapore dollar. It has a diverse population of migrants and citizens and remains a favorite holiday destination with many good hotels, one of which is the New Park Hotel Singapore.

This hotel under consideration is a 3 star hotel, located at the perfect location near the commercial district and Orchard Road. The rooms are large and spacious and the services provided make way for a highly rejuvenating and comfortable vacation.

There is a wonderful spread of Asian and international cuisine with three restaurants serving buffet meals and plenty of excellent facilities like a pool, sauna and sun deck for the guests to enjoy and be at ease in the luxurious facilities provided at the hotel.

Like every other 3 star hotel in Singapore, this hotel too is known for its service and hospitality. Alongwith the best budgeted prices, this hotel offers a distinct Asian hospitality and wonderful sights of the nearby attractions to its guests.

The hotel arranges sightseeing tours and trips from time to time for its guests. There are no extra expenses attached to these trips and therefore guests don’t feel hesitant at trying out such fabulous offers.

The management of the rooms is excellent as expected. The hotel also offers the evening entertainment by providing with a music lounge for the vibe, a terrace pool and even a room for functions. Such is the plethora of amenities on offer that travelers and business men cannot resist what they are offered.

The New Park Hotel Singapore is placed at a serene and calm location that is far from the dissonances of city and at walkable distance from the shopping centres. There are many local cafeterias near to this hotel where you can relish the traditional Singaporean cuisines. Singapore remains a fav spot for people travelling to the city for various reasons due to its valuable assets like bustling economy, exciting nightlife, and mesmerizing attractions.

Learn more about Singapore Vacations. Stop by Madeline Bullock site where you can find out all about it and what it can do for you.

You Are Safe Because Of The Cargo Screening Program

Tuesday, July 27th, 2010

A cargo screening program has been established by Homeland Security. This is ensuring your safety. By the month of August of 2010 one hundred percent of cargo carried on passenger airplanes must be screened. This applies to all flights in the US or those arriving into the United States.

In developing this program third parties are allowed to screen items prior to delivery to airports. For this reason there is no need to screen cargo when it is delivered to the airport and results in fewer passenger delays. One must apply in order to become a member of the Certified Cargo Screening facilities.

There is a thorough system that uses technology that is tamper evident to ensure cargo was screened. On its way to the aircraft the cargo is always secured. The airline has the final decision making responsibility. If they are unable to verify that cargo has ultimately been screened then they must screen it prior to carrying it.

The Transportation Security Administration, TSA, has regulations that must be adhered to. Every security requirement is to be followed. The chain of custody assures the integrity of items and inspections and validations are held on site. Screening is done on individual items not the entire pallet holding all the cargo.

Cargo must be examined for all non authorized explosive, incendiary, or any other destructive materials. This is a method of prevention so cargo is not loaded on the plane and is a source of danger to passengers. Every facility screens every piece of cargo they receive even when it originated in other certified facilities.

The powers of TSA include entering facilities in order to be sure that no threat is possible in transporting the cargo. They enforce security directives and regulations and they test and inspect the security measures. The TSA confirms that implementation of security measures are in place and they assure they are adequate at airports and all other certified facilities.

Training staff is mandatory in order for them to meet the qualifications needed for the security duties that they will perform. The certified facility has the responsibility of providing the staff with this training. A US citizen or national is chosen as the employee that screens or supervises others. A high school diploma or equivalent is required. At times experience and education can make up for the lack of the diploma. TSA requires that staff have certain skills and abilities.

Today there are online training materials and tools to train employees in the intricacies of the program. Course material is accessed on line. Once this course is completed it will be followed by on-the-job training and hands on training. These students will then be prepared to conduct the necessary training in order to certify new students. These are some measures that exist to ensure our safety.

cargo screening program

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