Saturday, December 29, 2007

5

Are Hawaii All-inclusive Vacation Packages Really A Good Deal?

  • Saturday, December 29, 2007
  • Wtmm
  • Are you looking to get started with making your Hawaii travel arrangements for your next Hawaii trip? If you are, you should know that you have a number of different options. One of those options is booking your travel arrangements in the form of a Hawaii all-inclusive vacation package. Although all-inclusive vacation packages do come highly rated and recommended, it is important to note that they may not be right for you.

    When it comes to determining if you should make your Hawaii travel plans in the form of an all-inclusive vacation package, there are a number of important points that you will first want to take into consideration. Perhaps, it is best if you take the time to examine the pros and cons of making your Hawaii travel arrangements in the form of an all-inclusive vacation package. These pros and cons, a few of which are outlined below, can help you determine, with ease, which booking method is best for your next trip to Hawaii.

    One of the many pros or plus sides to booking your next trip to Hawaii in the form of an all-inclusive vacation package is saved time. Like traditional vacation packages, most all-inclusive vacation packages include airline reservations, car rentals, as well as overnight accommodations, but that isn’t all that is included. It is not uncommon to find an all-inclusive vacation package that includes food and drinks, as well as entertainment! Purchasing a vacation package that includes all of these travel arrangements is likely to save you time.

    In addition to saved time, many vacationers are able to save money with the purchase of a Hawaii all-inclusive vacation package. With that in mind, it is important to proceed with caution. Not all vacation packages are as moneysaving as they seem. However, if you carefully do your research, you may be able to find a Hawaii vacation package that provides you with a small discount. A great way to determine if you are being overcharged for an all-inclusive vacation package is to examine all of its components and their costs individually. Comparing the two prices can help you determine if you are saving money with an all-inclusive vacation package or losing it.

    Although being able to save time and possibly even money on your trip to Hawaii is nice, it is also important to examine the cons or the downsides to all-inclusive Hawaii vacations. One of those downsides is the fact that not all vacation packages are the same. As previously stated, many all-inclusive vacation packages include airline reservations, overnight accommodations, car rentals, food, drinks, and entertainment. With that in mind, it is important to remember that there are no guarantees. Before you purchase an all-inclusive vacation package for your next trip to Hawaii, it is important that you do the proper research.

    Speaking of the proper research, it is also important that you examine the features that come included with an all-inclusive Hawaii vacation package. For instance, if you are provided with entertainment, like a free snorkeling lessons, will you use the lessons? This is a common downside to many all-inclusive vacation packages. Not all purchasers use their all-inclusive vacation packages to their fullest extent. In these instances, money is wasted. If you are interested in purchasing an all-inclusive vacation package that has features that you will not use, you may just want to save your money and book your Hawaii travel arrangement independently.

    It is also important to examine your overnight accommodations, when examining all-inclusive Hawaii vacation packages. Do you have your heart set on staying at your own, private Hawaii vacation rental? If you do, you may want to avoid all-inclusive Hawaii vacation packages. Most all-inclusive vacation packages, as previously stated, provide you accommodations at hotels and vacation resorts. While these accommodations are great, you should not forego your dream of staying at a private Hawaii vacation rental just so you can make your Hawaii travel arrangements in the form of an all-inclusive vacation package.

    The above mentioned points are just a few of the many that you will want to take into consideration when making your travel arrangements for your next trip to Hawaii. Always remember that as ideal as an all-inclusive Hawaii vacation sounds, one may not be right for you.

    By:

    Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

    Do you want privacy for your next trip to Hawaii? If so, visit HawaiianBeachRentals.com. They have a large selection of affordable and private Hawaii vacation rentals.

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    0

    Travel Medical Insurance: Take It For Trouble Free Trip

  • Wtmm
  • Whenever you travel to any place then always the main concern you might have is your health. Traveling requires you to change your usual routine and to eat and drink as per your trip. So all these changes can affect your health a lot and might require you to take medical assistance. In such situations travel medical insurance can provide you the full protection.

    During traveling many changes occur and for some people it is very difficult to keep pace with these changes. Even the change of weather can be harmful for you and you can fall ill. Although your travel insurance policy will cover for your medical expenses but it might not provide you as extensive coverage as you need for your medical treatments. Travel medical insurance covers for all your medical cost incurred in traveling and can also provide you extra coverage like provision for emergency flight and emergency evacuation.

    Hence travel medical insurance provides you health care when you are on traveling for either official work or you are going to spend your holidays. You can get travel medical insurance policy at low cost depending upon your age, length of coverage, maximum benefits and deductibles selected. Hence when you go for buying the travel medical insurance you should look for a policy with comprehensive coverage so that you could get cover for all your cost associated with the medical treatments.

    Generally with the travel medical insurance policy you get the following cover-

    * Medical cost incurred on your treatments along with cost incurred in purchasing of medicine.

    * Medical evacuation in case of emergency to the near medical health facility

    * In case of death of any of the member of your group then the cost of the returning of the dead body to the one’s home country

    Thus once you get travel medical health insurance policy you get full protection for all your health problems during travel which can put your whole trip in danger. You can online search for travel medical insurance policy. But before you finally opt for any policy of travel medical insurance you should carefully check the coverage given because coverage is the main factor to take care of with any policy. However sometimes it might be some risky to buy for any policy of travel medical insurance online so you should confirm about the credibility of insurance company from either your friends or relatives. Then you select online a suitable travel medical insurance for yourself.

    By: JennyBlack

    Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

    Jenny Black is the financial analyst at HealthInsuranceUK. To find more about travel medical insurance, Health insurance benefits, medical health insurance policy, Vision insurance, Medical insurance, Short-term insurance visit www.healthinsuranceuk.org.uk

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    0

    Looking For A Cheap Hotel In Us?

  • Wtmm
  • USA is a most powerful and economically developed country of the world. Due to its economic importance US is one of the most frequently visited countries by the visitors (For business or personal purposes). It is one of the main reasons to increase in demand of hotels in US. In US one can find hotels from the seven\ five Star to one\ two star category. In every city of America you can find all categories of hotels like Boston hotels or New York hotels. These hotels provide all basic and additional facilities and services according to their categorization. There are lots of choices for visitors or tourists from luxury hotels to cheap hotels. If you have handful of money you can choose any hotel, but if you have limited budget for stay you will definitely search for cheap hotel with best facilities.

    There are some steps with the help of these you can find best cheap hotels in US. First check the official websites of some known cheap hotels in US like Super 8 Motel, Red Roof Inn or budget Inn. With the help of these websites you can find best discount offers in selected hotels. These cheap hotels offer cable television with premium channels, coffee maker, continental breakfast and other basic facilities.

    With the help of coupon booklets you can find cheap hotels too. Every week in US many websites, companies and contests provide coupon booklets as door prizes, sales incentives or free gifts. Some time you get great deal for cheap hotels that are good at any location.

    One can find a best cheap hotel deal as a part of a travel package. These are some good airlines and traveling agencies which have alliances with cheap hotels in US. You will get a discount stay if you will fly on particular airline or plan your trip with particular traveling agency. These discounts are phenomenal and one discount usually follows by another. So hurry up ask to your travel agent or your airline that they have such wonderful offer or not.

    By: Megha Poddar

    Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

    For more information on Cheap Hotels like cheap Boston Hotels and New York Hotels, please visit our online hotel website.

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    0

    Looking For A Cheap Hotel In Us?

  • Wtmm
  • USA is a most powerful and economically developed country of the world. Due to its economic importance US is one of the most frequently visited countries by the visitors (For business or personal purposes). It is one of the main reasons to increase in demand of hotels in US. In US one can find hotels from the seven\ five Star to one\ two star category. In every city of America you can find all categories of hotels like Boston hotels or New York hotels. These hotels provide all basic and additional facilities and services according to their categorization. There are lots of choices for visitors or tourists from luxury hotels to cheap hotels. If you have handful of money you can choose any hotel, but if you have limited budget for stay you will definitely search for cheap hotel with best facilities.

    There are some steps with the help of these you can find best cheap hotels in US. First check the official websites of some known cheap hotels in US like Super 8 Motel, Red Roof Inn or budget Inn. With the help of these websites you can find best discount offers in selected hotels. These cheap hotels offer cable television with premium channels, coffee maker, continental breakfast and other basic facilities.

    With the help of coupon booklets you can find cheap hotels too. Every week in US many websites, companies and contests provide coupon booklets as door prizes, sales incentives or free gifts. Some time you get great deal for cheap hotels that are good at any location.

    One can find a best cheap hotel deal as a part of a travel package. These are some good airlines and traveling agencies which have alliances with cheap hotels in US. You will get a discount stay if you will fly on particular airline or plan your trip with particular traveling agency. These discounts are phenomenal and one discount usually follows by another. So hurry up ask to your travel agent or your airline that they have such wonderful offer or not.

    By: Megha Poddar

    Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

    For more information on Cheap Hotels like cheap Boston Hotels and New York Hotels, please visit our online hotel website.

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    0

    10 Reasons Why Your Family Should Go On A Disney Cruise

  • Wtmm
  • 1. You have children age 12 and under

    Every child should experience the magic of Disney at some point during their childhood. It is a special trip they will never forget and will cherish forever. The only way they’ll ever experience Castaway Cay is aboard a Disney vessel. A Disney cruise is an excellent way to experience everything Disney has to offer.

    2. You have teenagers

    Disney cruises realized long ago that small children grow older and developed programs for teenagers also. If you go on a cruise without your teens, you’ll worry about what they’re doing while you are away. So bring them along on a Disney cruise – they’ll love it.

    3. You are planning a cruise without your children

    Why leave the kids with grandma when you can take the kids along on a Disney cruise? Disney cruises plan itineraries for your children (all the way to midnight) no matter the age group. So, each of you can enjoy yourselves separately, and come together for meals, ports-of-call, etc. When the children are with you, all the worrying about their well-being is eliminated.

    4. Away time for the parents

    With the kids safely onboard and their fun-filled itineraries planned, Mom and Dad can enjoy some time on their own with the peace-of-mind that their children are safe. Should the need arise; an onboard paging system can make contact with parents at any time. Whether you want to go to an onboard coffee shop, health spa, or a nightclub – Disney cruises understands and can accommodate you.

    5. Excellent dining

    Opulent dining choices are always at or near the top of all cruisers’ lists of what they want in a cruise. Disney understands this and offers excellent cuisine for all. There is even an adults-only formal restaurant, the Palo, which specializes in Northern Italian cuisine. The kids will like Animator’s Palate where Disney scenes decorate the walls and change from black-and-white to vivid color before dinner is done.

    6. Onboard entertainment

    Disney boats feature original productions at the Walt Disney Theatre. These area all live, Broadway-style productions with a cast of Disney characters the whole family is sure to recognize. Also, movies are featured in two locations onboard – at the state of the art Buena Vista Theatre, and under the night sky near the Goofy Pool on a jumbo LED screen. Plus, there’s more to the onboard entertainment than plays and movies – activities have been custom-tailored for all types of passengers. The Oceaneer Club is designed for the youngest sailors, ages 3-7 complete with a trained staff to help them enjoy the fun. For kids a little older, ages 8-12, there is the Oceaneer Lab with interactive games on a giant video wall. Also, kids can enjoy playing ship captain at Ocean Quest. Finally, for teens there are teen-only clubs designed to look like an apartment or dorm room where the tough-to-please can socialize with their age group. There are also activities designed for the whole family to enjoy together like the Studio Sea where Mom, Dad and the kids can participate in a live game show and sing karaoke together.

    7. Locations visited by Disney Cruises

    Disney Cruises feature a stop at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island. Other stops featured on the Caribbean cruises include Nassau, St. Maarten, St. Thomas/St. John, Key West, Grand Cayman and Cozumel. The Mexican Riviera cruise features a trip from Port Canaveral through the Panama Canal with stops at Castaway Cay, Aruba, Cartagena, Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Capo San Lucas.

    8. You want to do something different for Spring Break

    It may be a little-known fact that Disney Cruises are a very popular choice for the college-age crowd during Spring Break, and it’s easy to understand why. A Disney cruise provides an alternative for those young adults not wishing to participate in the regular rites of debauchery in which so many other young adults partake.

    9. You’ve never been to Castaway Cay

    Castaway Cay is Disney’s private island and it has features perfect for the whole family. Kids and teens can venture to Never Land and adults can go to Shangri-La. Of course, the whole family can relax together on the beach and take in some sun.

    10. You’ve never been on a cruise

    Disney Cruises is a great choice for those travelers who have never been on a cruise. Even if traveling without children the excursion will be a trip you will treasure forever. Disney cruises has many ship excursions planned no matter the season and there will surely be a trip that fits into your busy schedule.

    By:

    Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

    hotels cheap

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    Sunday, April 29, 2007

    5

    How to visit Paris Museum/Exhibitions Free

  • Sunday, April 29, 2007
  • Wtmm
  • A trip to Paris is always a special moment, once you have reserved your flight ticket and your vacation rental, you can focus on planning your visit. Paris has a reputation for high prices, but wise travellers will discover Paris’ museums for free.

    Le Petit Palais
    Built for the Universal Exhibition of 1900, this museum presents works since Antiquity until end of the XIXth century. The collections are organised in two major parts : the ancient art fund (French, Flemish, Renaissance, XVIIIth century art) and the XIXth century French art fund (Doré, Delacroix, Monet, Pissaro, Sisley, Renoir, Toulouse-Lautrec...).

    Le Petit Palais (Musée des Beaux-Arts de la ville de Paris)
    5, avenue Dutuit - Paris 8
    open: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
    closed: Monday and bank holidays
    Permanent exhibition FREE
    late night opening: Thuesday (8 p.m.) during temporary exhibitions
    Métro : Champs-Elysées-Clemenceau (lines 1/13) or Concorde (lines 1/8/12)

    l'Atelier Brancusi (The Brancusi Workshop)
    L'Atelier Brancusi is a reconstruction of the workshop, with original furnitures and tools, of the sculptor Constantin Brancusi. You can discover most of his sculptures (finished but sketches too) in their original spirit : Brancusi was preoccupied by the relation between sculptures and space.

    L'Atelier Brancusi
    Beaubourg Piazza - 19, rue Beaubourg - Paris 4
    open: 2 pm to 6 pm
    free entrance
    closed: Tuesdays and May 1st
    Métro : Rambuteau (line 11) / châtelet les halles (RER)

    Free entrance (in the permanente exhibition) first sunday of the month
    Le Louvre
    Most famous museum of Paris, and one of the largest in the world, Le Louvre presents a permanent collection of 35000 works (Archeology, Decorative Arts, Jewellery, Furniture, Painting, Sculpture, Textile, Graphic art...) since High Antiquity (-7000) until 1850.

    Musée du Louvres
    Pyramide - Cour Napoléon
    34, 36 quai du Louvre – Paris 1
    open:
    Museum: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. (except Monday, 1/01, 1/05, 8/05, 15/08) Pyramid: 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.
    Closed : Tuesday, 1st January, 1st May, 8th May, 25th December
    Museum late night : opening on Wednesday, Friday (10 p.m.)
    Métro : Palais Royal – musée du Louvre (lines 1,7)

    Musée Picasso
    Located in a beautiful mansion : the « hôtel particulier » Salé, the Picasso Museum presents more than 3000 works of the artists including paintings, sculptures, drawings, ceramics etc.
    Musée Picasso
    Hôtel Salé - 5, rue de Thorigny – Paris 3
    open :
    Summer : April 1st - September 30 : 9.30 a.m. – 6.00 p.m.
    Winter : October 1st - Mars 31 : 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
    closed: Tuesday, 01/01
    Métro : Saint-Paul / Saint-Sébastien Froissart / Chemin Vert

    Musée des thermes de Cluny (Museum of medieval art)
    The museum, located between the gallo-romans ruins and a medieval hotel, presents master works of the medieval art and in particular the famous tapestries called The Lady with the Unicorn (« La Dame à la licorne »).

    Musée national du Moyen Âge - Thermes et hôtel de Cluny
    6, place Paul Painlevé - Paris 5
    open : 9.15 a.m. - 17.45 p.m.
    closed : Thuesday, 1st January, 1st May, 25 December
    Métro : Cluny-La Sorbonne / Saint-Michel / Odéon

    Musée d'Orsay
    Originally a train station built for the Universal Exhibition of 1900, this museum is dedicated to all artistic production (Painting, Sculpture, Architecture, Furniture, Cinema, Photography etc) from 1848 to 1914.
    Chronologically the collections presented in the Musee d'Orsay are before the one of the Louvre and after the one of the Musée d'Art Moderne Beaubourg.

    Musée d'Orsay
    62, rue de Lille – Paris 7
    open : 9.30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
    closed : Monday, 1st January, 1st May, 25th December
    late night opening: Thursday (9.45 p.m)
    Métro : Solférino (Line 12)

    Musée Rodin
    This museum, located in a XVIIIth century mansion, presents sculptures (marble, bronze, plaster etc) but also drawins from the sculptor Auguste Rodin. In addition, works from others artists, coming from the personal collection of Rodin, a exposed too. Few master works (and especally the famous Thinker) are exposed in the garden.

    Musée Rodin
    77, rue de Varenne – Paris 7
    Métro : Varenne, Invalides, Saint-François-Xavier
    Open :
    Winter (October - March): 9.30 a.m. - 4.45 p.m.
    Summer (April - September) : 9.30 a.m. - 5.45 p.m.
    Closed : Monday, 01/01, 01/05, 25/12

    Musée des arts asiatiques-Guimet
    Major center for the knowledge of Asian civilizations, this museem presents one of the largest collection in the world (45000 objects), of all types of Asian art and in particular an amazing collection of archeology and antics objects.

    Musée des Arts asiatiques - Guimet
    6, place d'Iéna - 19, avenue d'Iéna - Paris 8
    open : 10 a.m – 6 p.m.
    closed : Tuesday
    Métro : Iéna (9)

    Musée National d'Art Moderne (Beaubourg)
    Well known for his curious architecture , the Pompidou Center is a great cultural Center. It contains the Musée National d'Art Moderne which presents works since 1905 until present time. The museem is divides in two majors sections : moderne art (since 1905 until 1960) and contemporary art (since 1960 until now).

    Musée National d'Art Moderne
    Beaubourg Piazza – Paris 4
    open : 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
    closed : Tuesday, 1st May
    Métro : Rambuteau (11) / châtelet les halles (RER)

    Le château de Versailles
    Commissioned by Louis XV The Château de Versailles was the official residence of the royal court until the french revolution.
    Considered as the high point of French art and architecture during the 17th and 18th centuries The Château de Versailles is the prototype of French classical art. The gardens, designed by Le Nôtre, represents the quintessence of the « jardin à la française ».

    Château de Versailles
    open :
    summer : April 3t - October 31 : 9 a.m. – 6.30 p.m.
    winter : November 1st - April 2d : 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
    closed: Monday, May 1st, May 28th, December 25th

    By train :
    RER ligne C
    direction Versailles-rive-gauche-château
    from Montparnasse station
    train SNCF direction Versailles-Chantiers
    from Saint-Lazare station
    train SNCF direction Versailles-rive-droite

    Article Directory: http://www.globalarticlesdirectory.com

    Paris Be A Part Of It is a licensed real estate agency in Paris specialised in vacation short term rentalas well as long term rentalin Paris. Phone : + 33 1 42 33 00 65, www.paris-be-a-part-of-it.com

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    0

    Careful Planning Is Always A Good Idea For Successful Travel

  • Wtmm
  • OK, Hands up those who have experienced the following.

    You are sitting there on the plane which has taxied out onto the tarmac ready to go; you are relaxed, enjoying the fact that once in your life you have planned everything to perfection.

    Who needs those lists that your wife or partner always suggest that you have to have, and suddenly in a fit of panic you clutch your pocket only to recoil in horror when you realise that in your last minute panic to leave the house earlier on in the morning (its always those flights folks) you have your wife’s car keys in your pocket – as well as your own and she has no back up!

    That my friends has got to come pretty close to almost being the ultimate nightmare scenario.

    It happened to me several years ago on the 6.45 am flight from Belfast City Airport to East Midlands Airport and was a pure and unadulterated nightmare. Luckily in my case my wife has a sense of humour (at least that’s how it sounded down the mobile phone) when grovelling like mad I arrived at East Midlands and managed to call her just over an hour later.

    I have to say I had never been so glad to have such a good relationship with a pragmatic and extremely helpful local florist. Cost me a fortune, I was in “deep grief” as they say, for some time but we eventually got over it.

    The reason I mentioned the entire above incident is that up until that point I had been a “travel by the seat of your pants” kind of guy. My background in leisure and entertainments had by and large trained me well in the arts of being able to put your hand on your passport, credit cards and cash in a hurry and always think on your feet.

    Not an ideal habit to bring with you into the outside world where you don’t have folks running after you all the time.

    So marrying someone who’s entire approach to travel quite frankly could pass as a definition for the word “Organised” in the Oxford English Dictionary came as a bit of a shock to the old system I can tell you!

    Well the above incident was the last straw as far as my habits were concerned and now I play things by the book with regards to planning for travel no matter how long or short the trip is, the same approach to getting the basics is followed.

    All the necessary documentation is checked especially with regards to flight details, checking in times etc. This last point is essential since the horrific events of the World Trade Centre tragedy that became known as 911; travel by air will never be the same again.

    If I had one tip for all potential travellers, certainly those who travel by air, or indeed this piece of advice would actually benefit all travellers. Get to your point of departure early and allow yourself time to cope with any potential problems that might occur.

    Gone are my days of the Michael Schumacher impressions as I hurtle towards the airport at high speed having left it much too late….yet again.

    Article Directory: http://www.globalarticlesdirectory.com

    Stephen Morgan writes about a number of Internet based travel issues such asTravel Itineraries andVacation Ideas. A keen proponent of all aspects of free and independent services available, he advises clients to look at the whole mix of online services available at www.travel-plan-idea.com.


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    Thursday, March 1, 2007

    0

    Vacation & Travel Tips: Why Your Next Vacation Should Be A Jamaica Vacation

  • Thursday, March 1, 2007
  • Wtmm
  • 1

    Why Your Next Vacation Should Be A Jamaica Vacation

  • Wtmm
  • One of the most popular tourist attractions almost anywhere in the world, if you ask almost any vacationer looking for rest and relaxation, would be a spot where the weather is nice and it is near the water or the ocean. It is for this reason that one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world has been Jamaica in the Caribbean islands.

    Jamaica has been referred to by many travel authorities as being a tropical paradise. A Jamaica vacation at any of the major Jamaican locations includes beautiful temperate weather, white sandy beaches, beautiful mountain ranges which produce some of the most magnificent sunsets ever seen, as well as a huge variety of things to do, from shopping to casinos to world-class golfing to some of the friendliest and most active nightlife seen anywhere. What more could one ask for?

    The lodging options for your Jamaica vacation run the gamut. You can go for the bed and breakfast option, where such opportunities are plentiful, and allow you to get to know the locals a bit better, as well as getting a better sense of what it is like to live in Jamaica and a flavor for the culture and customs. You can choose a mid range hotel, which is very similar to mid range hotels found throughout the US. And you can also opt for the all inclusive luxury resorts, of which Jamaica boasts several. In fact, Jamaica was the home of one of the very first all inclusive resorts, where one price includes virtually everything. At these resorts, just about everything you could want is all without the resort itself.

    Many of the mid range hotels and almost all of the resort hotels are also very much geared towards families. You can get adjoining rooms, so that the parents can stay in one room and the kids are separate but still nearby in the room next door. Most of these resorts also have babysitting services and child activity services, which include beach trips, treasure hunting, and so many more things that your kids are sure to enjoy as a very memorable vacation, which allows the parents to go off and get re-acquainted with each other, knowing the kids are in good and qualified hands in their absence.

    One tourist type that is usually attracted by thoughts of a Jamaica vacation would be honeymoon couples. Jamaica presents an ideal atmosphere for newlyweds. Even if you do not stay there, you should visit Treasure Beach, which is home to an ideal honeymoon resort known as Jake’s Place Hotel. If you are not relaxing at the beach, you may also want to include Strawberry Hill in your Jamaica vacation itinerary, which will treat you to Old World ambience, some of the best Jamaican native food to be found, as well as mountain hiking expeditions.

    There are so many options for what to see, what to do, and where to stay on your Jamaica vacation that you would be best advised to do some planning before you start your trip. You may even find that you need to allocate more days on your vacation to be able to see and do everything you discover is possible as your plan your ideal Jamaica vacation.

    Article Directory: http://www.globalarticlesdirectory.com

    Jon is a computer engineer who maintains web sites on a variety of topics based on his knowledge and experience. You can read more about a Jamaica Vacation at his web site at Your Guide To A Jamaica Vacation.




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    0

    Travel insurance in France

  • Wtmm
  • Renting a property in France for a short period (less than 90 days) is called “location saisonnière” which can be translated as “short term let”. Whether you stay one week or two months, you need to be covered by an insurance called “assurance villégiature” or “holiday insurance”.

    This insurance is compulsory in France and the owner is entitled to ask for a proof of purchase when you move in. Although most owners do not ask for it, you will be strongly advised to get one as it covers, amongst others, the following risks: explosion or water damage, damage to the building and other properties belonging to the owner of the accommodation you are renting, damage caused to properties belonging to neighbours and third parties.

    Before taking out insurance for you and your family with a company, contact your own household insurance as they may offer interesting solutions.

    However, be aware that most of them do not cover you in case of cancellation. And if you are renting an accommodation abroad, it is sometimes difficult to get full or partial refund of what you have already paid for.

    Alternatively, you can also check your credit card policy before paying for your trip and accommodation, as some banks cover you in case of cancellation, lost luggage, plane delay, etc.
    Enjoy your stay in France.

    Article Directory: http://www.globalarticlesdirectory.com

    Paris Be A Part Of It is a licensed real estate agency in Paris specialised in vacation short term rental as well as long term rental in Paris

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    Sunday, February 11, 2007

    2

    Tips on how to enjoy traveling alone

  • Sunday, February 11, 2007
  • Wtmm
  • Want to go to a new exciting place, but don’t have anyone to tag along? There may be times when you have to travel alone in a foreign land. Whether just for fun or on official business, you have to take safety measures. Traveling alone need not be lonely. It could be fun in more ways than one. Don’t be reluctant to travel just because your on your own. Just remember these things:

    *Plan ahead
    Research and read about the place you’re heading to. Know where’s the nearest hotel, restaurant, and such. Make reservations too, if possible. That way, your travel is on a good start.

    *Take a city map
    You better study how to read maps. Needless to say, these can guide you where you are going, especially if it’s the first time you’re going to that place. Relying too much on the cab driver is not a good idea.

    *Learn the language
    Just study the basics, and the most common things you’re likely to ask a local. Learn it before you arrive.

    *Hide your valuables
    Put your guard up. Don’t invite muggers to come and get you. Don’t wear too much jewelry outside the streets. Use inexpensive accessories.

    *Dress appropriately
    Check what the locals wear on a given time of day. You don’t want your clothes screaming you’re a tourist. The lesser attention you draw to yourself, the better.

    *Don’t be afraid to ask for directions
    It would be okay to ask someone for directions, but be sure you are going to choose who to ask. You can ask a waiter in restaurant, or the receptionist in your hotel. Just be sure you get all information. Asking from a complete stranger outside is not advisable.

    *Bring some cash
    Take just enough. Traveler’s checks and credit cards are good, and it could be your primary mode of payment, but you might want to keep a few extra dollars in your pocket with local money.

    *Enjoy your self
    Well, you are traveling, so make the most of it. Make friends with a local. Talk to somebody over lunch in a café. Get the addresses of the friends you make to send them a thank you card. Maybe next time, you’d be their host.

    Traveling alone can be your best experience. With solo traveling, you will definitely learn more about your self and what you can do. Try it. It would be fun!
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    Travel adventure tips

  • Wtmm
  • How to Enjoy the Best Places under the Sun

    There are people who are fond of traveling. They like to go to places where they can recharge their souls, unwind, release the tension from work, and simply enjoy what life has to offer.

    And there are people who are more of the adventurous type who would rather enjoy the day exploring the forest canopy in Costa Rica or discover the beauty of the wilderness of Siberia.

    However, whatever adventure travel most people would like to experience, it is always best to observe safety measures and precautions so as to avoid risk or perils of traveling to unknown lands.

    Here’s a list of tips for adventure travelers, whether they want adventures that are more inclined to wilderness or just the typical family adventure most people would love to experience:

    1. It is best that people should know what the type of travel adventure they are getting into.

    Adventure travel may provide the kind of adrenalin rush most adventurers long to experience every time they get out of their territory. It is the feeling of newness and uncertainty on what will happen that gives them the satisfaction and gratification that they need.

    However, it is still important for them to know what they are doing. After all, traveling always involve risky activities especially to those who are set to gain adventure experience.

    2. Have a fixed set on the adventure travel destination.

    Because of the vastness of locations and adventure locations available today, people might get confused on what areas are best for their adventure travel.

    One good tip is to choose a location that can baffle those adventurous minds and mystify the eyes with great mystery.

    As much as new and exotic places can be adventurous, it is still best to stick to the classical and typical locations. It would be really risky to try areas which no one has ever dared to go to.

    3. Consider the budget.

    Adventure traveling can be pretty expensive especially when it entails going to places that entails great adventure packages.

    So, it would be better for adventure travelers to shop around first and compare prices before deciding on what kind of adventure travel to take.

    Indeed, adventure travel can be one of the most exciting and gratifying travel one can experience. However, with the exotic places, wilderness, and virgin forests that one might consider, it is a must that every travel must know the proper way how to protect themselves and what to do first before trying the place out.

    After all, it should be safety that should always be on top priority.
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    How to save on travel reservations

  • Wtmm
  • Cheap Reservations without the Hassle

    - Plan your vacations on off seasons, Hotel rates, even airline and car rental rates are lower during this time due to lower demand. You can get as much as a 50% discount if you book a room during off season, so try and call the hotel if they have off season discounts and ask them when the discounts will be effective.

    - Some hotels give discounts to certain people like students, military contingents, Senior citizens, honeymooners etc. Ask for these discounts and what their details, you can save a lot with these.

    - Ask if your kids can stay for free, if you’re with your family, sometimes hotels can allow up to two kids for a two bed room provided that the kids are within the age limit.

    - If you’re not very particular with hotel locations, you can access name-your-price websites for car rentals and hotel reservations. They’ll do the haggling for you and you’re sure not to over-budget.

    - Some hotels and even car rental companies, give “free days” if you use their services for more than a week. Ask about these certain perks if you’re planning a long stay.

    - Make sure that the room fees are the only ones you’re paying for. Some hotels have surcharges and extra fees that aren’t mentioned in room rates and then suddenly pop-up on check-out. Before you reserve, ask about these, and if upon check-out you suddenly find yourself with fees that you didn’t know about, refuse to pay it.

    - You can also exchange frequent Flier miles for hotel lodgings so if you have an expiring miles card, or a miles card that you’d just want to get rid of, ask the hotel if they honor these exchanges.

    - Sometimes, hotels provide free airport pick-up you can use this as bargaining tool. Ask for a free pickup when haggling so you’ll get something extra even if you pay the full price.

    - If you’re planning to travel during peak season, always call in advance, rates tend to get higher as the season approaches.

    - Sometimes, weekend rates are lower than regular fees, or vice versa, ask your agent, or ask the hotel yourself if they have these, then you can schedule your trip during these times and be able to avail of the discount.

    - Always ask for a confirmation number when you reserve a room, so that they can’t say that they didn’t receive your reservation.
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    How to deal with accidents while traveling

  • Wtmm
  • Accidents do happen unexpectedly, but they can be avoided.

    However, despite the fact that a lot of people are trying their best to avoid it, still, many are in danger in the road while traveling. They will never know when an accident will take place. In fact, it seems that the number of people who gets into accidents while traveling is continuously growing.

    In 2003 alone, statistics show that over 6 million car accidents have been reported in the United States, and in those accidents about 2.9 million were injured and 42, 643 people were killed. That is, indeed, a very alarming figure considering the fact that the campaigns about driving safely and avoiding road accidents are in full force.

    So, where does the problem lies? Is it on the driver, the car manufacturer, the government, or is it fate for most people who get into accidents? In reality, nobody can really tell who to blame. The only choice people have is to continue driving safely and avoid accidents.

    However, in the event that accidents happen, the only way to solve the mishap is to deal with it. Here’s how:

    1. Emergency numbers in one’s mobile phone are extremely important.

    People just don’t realize this yet, but the emergency numbers stored in their mobile phones are vital to one’s life, especially when away from home or while traveling.

    Surveys show that people who usually survive in accidents are those who were attended to immediately by health experts. This goes to show that immediate actions are important so as to save people who have met accidents.

    2. Panic is the number one killer in an accident.

    The reason why many people do not survive in an accident is because they tend to panic first. They get so panic-stricken that they can no longer clear their mind and think of ways how to deal with the dilemma. That is why it is extremely important to stay calm when accidents and happen and think of ways how to solve the problem.

    3. Prevention is still the number one remedy.

    Today, car accidents are currently the top most causes of death, usually within the age bracket of 1 to 37. Hence, the majority of the drivers, who are prone to accidents, are young. Usually the causes of accidents in young people are speeding, reckless driving, not wearing seatbelts, and drunk driving.

    And so, it is important to observe traffic rules and regulations so as to prevent road accidents while traveling. As they say, an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.
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    Tips for the right holiday travel package

  • Wtmm
  • It is not usually wise to be traveling during holidays as these are the times when almost every other person in the world is traveling. It is of course best to plan ahead or book ahead and go to your destination early to avoid all the hassle but if you’re one of those last minute people or probably one of those who can’t really avoid it, you should follow the next few tips for a better journey and maybe a cheaper stay.

    - Holiday travel packages were never made with only one person in mind; no two people are alike, keep this in mind because the agencies that packed them have kept these in mind, use this fact to haggle your way into cheaper or sometimes better deals. Even if there are ready made packages, you can ask for extra perks especially if you’re staying for more than a week.

    - Be careful of travel agents. Travel agents may give you the best deal for your package, which normally include airfare, lodgings and transportation, but a really good agent can be really flexible. One example would be if you want a rental car for the first half of your trip but you want to get rid of it by the second half, a good agent can arrange this for you, sometimes for a cheaper price.

    - Be sure that the package you want is available, you don’t want to get pulled into something that ends up being sold out, some people give out too-good-to-be-true packages which end up being “sold out” in the end, so before you make a deal or transfer a morsel of cash, make sure that it is still available.

    - Be sure to know exactly what airline and route your taking, you won’t want those unpleasant layovers which can be a real pain, not to mention delay your schedule.

    - A good sign of a good package is one that is very flexible, as said before, no two people are alike, and a good package should reflect that, it should allow you to choose between destinations, as well as brands and lodgings without changing the price. A choice in which rental car to take is also a sign of a good package.

    - Finally, it’s good to ask for discounts that you might get if you do certain stuff, like stay in the hotel for more than a week, or sign up on the internet instead of by phone. Research first before you cough up the money for down-payment; make sure you’ve exhausted all possible discount generating ways before you decide on a package.
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    Planning your own educational trip

  • Wtmm
  • If it’s just for school, for your kids or for the neighborhood kids, it’s nice to have a purposeful educational trip that will surely be enjoyed by the children as well as teach them. Of course there is the usual trip to the museum or the so-so factory, but educational travel doesn’t necessarily end with the destination, one should also consider the preparations as well as the child before you uproot them from their playgrounds.

    Who should plan the Trip?

    If the trip is an out of school activity, whether organized by you or the neighborhood parents, there should always be somebody or a group of people willing to dedicate a snippet of their time to organizing, everything, destination, transportation, food, lodgings (if any) as well as the children involved.

    What to Bring

    A pack list is also essential before a trip. Here are a few things that should be in your or your child’s bag when you go on an educational trip.

    - Snacks –there should be lots of drinks and walk foods that you can eat even while walking.

    - First aid kit – an accident can easily happen, a small trip or a scratch should be mended easily. A medicine pack can also be handy for parents who develop headaches, or for children with stomach upset.

    - Extra clothes – children are very active, and sometimes even parents can be over-active, so it is necessary that both bring a set of clothes for those unexpected spills.

    - Walkie talkie – If your child can handle it, a walkie-talkie or a cellular phone can be very useful if he gets lost.

    - Name tag – Attach a name tag to his shirt or to his bag containing your contact number (without a name) so that whoever finds him can contact you.

    - One of his favorite toys – A good thing to distract a child when he gets uneasy during travel would be one of his favorite toys.

    - Wipes and tissue- For that easy cleanup whenever you need it.

    When you get there

    Fall in line, and make travel buddy’s of two or three; the one buddy should be responsible for the other so as to prevent anyone getting left behind. This is best done with kids who don’t normally play together so they can bond and get to know each other more.

    On the trip home

    Encourage sleeping; after a long walk children can get cranky when tired, so bring some milk with you so they can sleep through the trip home.
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    Disney World Traveling

  • Wtmm
  • Disney World is probably the most popular theme park in the world, attractions, rides, characters, the works, there is no doubt that nobody goes to Disney World to get headaches. To prevent unnecessary muscle and head pain, it is best to be prepared.

    Proper Season

    It is best to go to Disney World during off season, which is roughly around early January to mid February, or after Labor Day through mid December. During off season, there are less people, less congestion and less headaches. What’s more, it rarely gets cold in Florida, even during winter season, and it gets swelteringly hot and humid during summer, so winter, really is the time to go.

    The Proper Lodgings

    Although it is cheaper to stay in hotels outside of Disney World, the extra cash you’ll have to cough up if you stay inside is more than made up for by the comfort and convenience of an inside stay.

    Imagine traveling from your room, then going through the 47 square mile area that is Disney World, then traveling back to your hotel… exhausting isn’t it?

    The Proper Schedule

    Where to actually go once you get there is determined by your choice of companions, kids, teenagers or adults.

    Kids

    Go through Cinderella’s Castle and Visit Fantasy Land or Mickey’s Toon Town, the little tots will surely love all the characters roaming around that area. The rides in these parts are built for 6 year olds and below, but mommy or daddy can still squeeze themselves in if they want.

    Adults or Teens

    A trip to the Magic Kingdom may be in order if you’re with big kids. You can go to Splash Mountain to get wet or to Space Mountain to get some indoor rollercoaster, and fun for the bumpy person, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad should be enough to satisfy their taste for adventure.

    Rides for Everyone

    If you want something that everyone can enjoy, a ride in the Walt Disney World Railroad, can rest those tired feet and at the same time give you an enjoyable view of Magic Kingdom.

    Haunted Mansion, although not really for very young kids, can be a thrill for toddlers, it’s a ride not a walk through so there’s no tripping or running involved.

    For relaxing walks, try the Tiki Room Show or the Swiss family Tree House.

    The Proper Dining Experience

    For cute snacks, try the Aloha Isle inside Adventureland, they conjure up creative drinks and snacks, a good place to try something cute and different.

    Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe provides a cool indoor dining area between Fantasyland and Tomorrowland where you can enjoy your food to your hearts content.
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    1

    Guide to Cheap Annual Travel Insurance

  • Wtmm
  • Vacations are for fun, it means leaving behind your job and responsibilities for a while. Having travel insurance is one way of putting your mind at complete rest. It's a lot easier to enjoy your trip if you know that you are covered from luggage lost to sickness.

    The further your trip will be, the more you will need travel insurance. This is common sense, as international trips are costly, so there's a need to protect your hard earned travel money. So wherever you go, to a local or international destination, it's very important that you have the necessary insurance coverage.

    Cheap annual travel insurance is an alternative choice for those budget- conscious travelers who are making more than one trip a year. The main feature of the annual travel insurance against regular travel insurance is that it saves you money. For a once annual payment, you become covered whenever you travel during the year. The terms and conditions vary between companies, but annual insurance for unlimited travel is also available. Cheap annual travel insurance provides substantial cost savings than any regular type of travel insurance.

    Here are some tips for choosing your best cheap annual travel insurance:

    1. Sign up with a reputable insurance company that has worldwide offices which can easily be contacted during emergency needs.

    2. The insurance company should have a 24/7 customer assistance which is an essential for international travelers.

    3. Always make your office's 1-800 number available to you when you are abroad.

    4. The cost of the insurance should not be more than 10% of your investment.

    5. Read the terms and conditions of the policy to make sure you aren't buying unnecessary or inadequate coverage.

    6. Look for refundable policy, especially if you have the history of changing your mind too often.

    7. A good insurance should cover at least the following:

    a. Flight cancellation or delay
    b. Luggage loss and delay
    c. Sickness and accident during the trip.
    d. Evacuation support during an emergency situation such as natural calamities

    Cheap annual travel insurance is good for you if you take vacations more than once a year. Instead of taking several insurance each time you travel, you can make use of a single travel insurance that could save you a lot of money and time. On the other hand, if you travel less often, an annual insurance policy is not for you since you will not be able to recover the cost.
    Read more...
    0

    Guide to Business Travel

  • Wtmm
  • Planning your business trip wisely will free you from lots of trouble. Inadequate airline seats, long lines, heavy traffic, and unavailable hotel rooms are just some of the problems a business traveler might encounter. Despite the emergence of e-commerce, businessmen still travel more often for sales and business shows. Here are some tips to make your business travel a successful one:

    1. Plan your business trip long before you leave the office.

    2. Always prepare a travel bag with complete necessities to be used on any emergency trips.

    3. Bring some ready to eat foods, it will save you a substantial amount of money, considering the high cost of foods in hotels.

    4. Be sure to have a buffer time between your flight and your scheduled meeting.

    5. Choose aircraft that has better seats with ample leg room.

    6. Put all your valuable materials in a small carry-on bag.

    7. When calling your main office, use the 800 numbers as much as possible because it's much cheaper.

    8. If you're a businesswoman, it is important to dress well. Additionally, you must bring casual clothes for your free time.

    Not all hotels have inexpensive telecommunication systems from their rooms, so always choose your hotel's business floor, for these rooms are made especially for business traveler. These rooms should have dual telephone/modem lines, fax machine, and free communications between rooms. In order to save money on calls, use your calling card and place calls through your country's long-distance carrier or find a pay phone in the hotel's lobby. If available, use a nearby business center for your fax needs since fax service within your room will probably cost more.

    These days, a business traveler has to bring a lot of electronic equipment such as; cell phones, electronic organizers, laptop computers, etc. Here are some suggestions on how to keep your expensive business items safe:

    1. Put your laptop inside a bag that will not indicate that there's a laptop inside. The same works well for other equipment such as camera, electronic organizer, etc.

    2. Don't expose your laptop to x-ray scanners at the airport security check, rather have it checked manually. X-rays could damage your electronic equipment.

    3. Don't place your laptop on the aircraft's overhead bins; instead place it near your seat or under the seat in front of you.

    4. Always bring extra batteries for your equipment.

    Today's business travelers are enjoying much comfort compared to their counterparts a few decades ago. Low airfare, plenty of airlines to choose from, communication equipment (especially cell phones and laptops) make modern day business travelers more efficient. Even on a business trip, parents can always be with their family members and co-workers can still get in touch with their office work, at least virtually.
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    Checking accessories that you need in traveling

  • Wtmm


  • So, finally you have found the time for your deserving break. You have already planned what to do on the big trip. Everything seems to be prepared. But what happens when you forget your favorite digicam and you only discovered it when you’re already nearing the point of your destination?

    Why does it happen that every time you go out of town, you always forget an item or accessory that you only remember after you left the house? If you are lucky, you usually forget small things like a toothbrush, where you can buy one in the nearest store.

    But what happens if you forget, for example, your digicam? Or how about your raincoat in a rainy season? How about the travel supplies you usually forget? If you’re lucky, it’s a simple accessory like a toothbrush, which any hotel will have in their gift shop. But what if you forgot a more important product, for example, a rain coat? Or a backpack you’ll be using for a hiking trip?

    What are all the travel accessories you need?

    When going on trips, whether it is big or small, check out if you have a complete set of your travel accessories. What accessories should I bring? Among the most obvious are:

    - Suitcases

    - Travel clothing

    - Toiletries

    -Travel appliances (electric razor, travel alarm, hairdryer)

    These, however, are just the basic accessories. You will see that the more you travel, the more you need things other than suitcases, toiletries, and travel clothing and appliances. For example, did you think that you should have brought a small nice neck pillow in a long train ride or flight? Or, what if you get bruised from a hiking trip, do you have a first-aid kit close at hand?

    Here are some accessories that you might want to bring when you take your next trip:

    - Binoculars

    - Music player

    - Mini-flashlight

    - Camera

    - Clothing steamer

    - Mini-umbrella

    - Luggage rack

    - Door alarm

    - First-aid kit

    It would not be surprising that you might have additional options to this list, or you might have a list entirely different from the list above. And when you check out stores and Internet sites that sell travel accessories, you would learn that there are many products out there that you thought you never needed but turned out to be the contrary!
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    0

    Some tips on backpacking

  • Wtmm
  • Travelers around the world enjoy seeing the sights and wonders of different places with only a backpack for all the things they need. Because they only have a pack on their backs, the possibilities of new sightseeing and activity adventures are limitless.

    But of course, before you head for a faraway hiking adventure with your backpack, you must make sure that you bring all the things you need to put in your backpack. Below is a checklist that will make your backpacking adventure a pleasant experience.

    - Backpack

    Of course, how can you go for a wild backpacking activity without a backpack! Pick one that is comfortable and fits well on you. A properly fitted backpack is essential. You are going hiking and the last thing you need is a backpack that is gouging into your shoulders. Make sure your is fitted properly.

    - Quick Drying Towel

    Widely available in many stores. You don’t want a heavy, damp towel on your backpack, do you?

    - Walking Shoes

    Pick comfortable shoes as you would learn soon enough that walking would be a major part in your backpacking adventure.

    - Underwear and socks

    These go without saying.

    - Long Underwear

    This depends on the season and place where you are traveling. You might also wear your long underwear when you stay in hotels that do not have adequate well-heating systems.

    - Pillow Case

    Pillow case is an essential thing to keep when you stay in backpacker hotels.

    - Sleeping Bag

    When you stay in backpacker hotels. Select a lightweight sleeping bag. Down is the best type of sleeping bag. Yes, they do cost a bit more, but the prices is well worth it. Feathers are very light and you can compress a down into a very small package.

    - Passport

    Don’t even think of leaving the country without it.

    - Spy Wallet

    So that you could be able to divide up the money that you have just in case.

    - Day Pack

    Most backpacks have a detachable daypack.

    - Camera

    A digicam may be better, but bulkier and heavier to carry.

    - Journal

    For the writer and chronicler in you.

    - Flip Flops

    Useful when you take a shower.

    - Traveler’s Checks

    You can never be too sure with your money.

    - Wet Wipes

    Always come in handy. Easy to carry too.

    - Landry Detergent

    It might prove handy.

    - Space Savers

    - Rain Coat

    Especially if you travel on a rainy season or you’re going to tropical countries like those in Southeast Asia or South America.

    - Lock

    For the safety of your belongings.

    - Band Aids

    It’s better to be prepared than not at all.

    - Travel Guide

    Try picking a comprehensive yet easy-to-carry travel guide.

    - Personal items such as toothpaste, deodorant, soap, and shampoo

    For hygienic purposes.

    - Clothing

    A tip: The night before you leave, check all clothes that you need. Then take only the half. Clothing simply weighs too much. Take only what you can carry at ease.
    Read more...

    Monday, January 29, 2007

    1

    How to find cheap travel

  • Monday, January 29, 2007
  • Wtmm
  • This article will uncover the market of cheap travel, suggest ways of finding cheap travel and pay attention to the problem issues that may arise in budget travel.

    Student travel has come a long way in the past few decades. It is no longer considered a rarity. Gap years, student electives abroad and cheap summer holidays in distant places, have become part of the generally life-enriching experience that is now considered synonymous with the student status. (Frost F et al., 1999)

    The current financial climate, with many students having to rely on student loans, parental support, holiday jobs or personal savings for their financial fluidity, largely dictates and limits just what can be achieved in this regard and there are a number of ploys and strategies that are commonly used to make the money go further or, to look at it another way, to allow the same money let the student go further! (Reisinger Y et al., 2004)

    We can start by taking an overview of the situation and dividing up the travel costs into those that are necessary to arrive at a destination and those that are necessarily incurred to move around once the student has arrived. Generally speaking, the preferred way to travel is by flying. It is often the quickest way to travel long distances and in these days of competitive pricing strategies, many of the no-frills and budget airlines are offering very cheap flights across mainland Europe. The unwary student should note that the eye-catching prices quoted are invariably exclusive of taxes and fuel surcharges which can add between £30-£200 onto the quoted cost (depending on destination and distance).

    As a general rule, the cheaper the flight, the greater the sacrifice of both flexibility and conditions. A flight that arrives or leaves in the early hours of the morning, does not supply food, has minimal in-flight entertainment and a strict baggage allowance, is clearly going to cost less than one that has additional amenities. A word of caution also for these flights as there are generally strict terms and conditions, limited changeability and minimal prospect of refund if there's a problem.

    Cheap flights are at the other end of the spectrum from cheap holidays. With holidays the greatest savings are made by those who are willing to book at the last minute. With flights, the converse is true. As flights get booked up, the prices tend to rise. (Bernstein J et al., 1999)

    Two of the most commonly used mechanisms for obtaining cheap flights are flight-brokers and screen scrapers. The flight brokers make their money by selling you a flight that gives them a commission. There is therefore a balance between the amount of commission that an airline pays them to fill their seats and the requirements of the student. The screen scrapers are web-based tools such as TravelSupermarket, TravelJungle, and SkyScanner. You effectively enter your requirements and these sites send the details to dozens of airlines (and some brokers) and display their findings with the cheapest first. (Sheth A et al., 2002)

    There are variations on this process with sites like Expedia and Travelocity specialising in long-haul flights and Expedia and Opodo allowing flights to one airport then leaving from another. Flights Direct will specifically examine the charter market for occasional bargains.

    If you intend to fly on certain dates a few months in the future, it is well worth signing up to the e-mail lists of the appropriate airlines. They will send out details of short-term sales so that you can snap them up at the right moment if they come up. British Airways, Opodo, American Airlines and KLM are particularly good for this type of approach.

    Once at the destination, the student has to consider the best way of travelling around. Rather like the airlines, one pays for convenience, accessibility and comfort – the cheapest forms of travel generally being the slowest and least luxurious. It is clearly impossible to generalise throughout the world, but hitch-hiking, which might have once been considered the cheapest way to travel, has a distinct risk element of personal safety and clearly is inappropriate for the lone female traveller. Many of the commercially available insurance policies specifically forbid such practices. (Cullinane S, 2002)

    Public transport is often the most reliable of the cheaper options. Either the local busses, the long-haul coaches or the train services being generally safe and reliable. Many of the more developed countries offer student travel cards (or a variant) to reduce the costs of repeated journeys and some bus companies (Australia travel being a notable example) will sell an open ticket between two specified destinations which can be used with different segments of the journey being undertaken over a period of several weeks.

    There are other considerations relating to travel such as how best to deal with money. The time-honoured way of carrying travellers cheques may no longer be popular, with many students electing for the convenience of "plastic" money and credit cards. One should note that Mastercard will generally convert foreign exchange transactions at about the best commercially available rate, but will then add about 2.75%. This does vary between cards and therefore should be individually checked. Overseas cash withdrawals are also usually subject to a 2% additional fee (minimum charge £2) on both credit and debit cards. In addition to all of this, some credit card companies will also add a transaction fee on foreign transactions. (Halifax is currently the worst, levying £1.75 on each transaction.) For the student, the Post Office or Nationwide credit cards appear to be the best option. They have no levy on overseas purchases but they do charge interest on all cash withdrawals.

    As with all travel, insurance is not essential, but only the most foolhardy student would travel without it. The annual multi-trip insurance is seldom competitive except for the USA where it may work out cheaper than individual trip cover (mainly because of the medical expense element applicable to the USA). Most will require you to be staying at pre-booked venues which may not be appropriate for the student traveller.

    Decide what cover you need, what excess you need (the first part of each claim that you have to pay yourself) and then shop around. The classic insurance selling line is "why not upgrade to our platinum policy, with £30 million worth of medical cover etc." In real terms, the chances of you ever needing more than £2 million of medical cover or repatriation to the UK is virtually negligible and therefore perhaps best avoided. A good plan is to include a personal liability cover of £1 million and also cover for "cancellations and curtailments" together with cover for lost or delayed baggage and cash.

    You should note that Europe-only cover is cheaper than further afield and therefore only select wider cover if it is appropriate. Lastly, ensure that the company you are dealing with is covered by FSA regulated underwriters.

    Bear in mind also that the new EHIC card (free from www.dh.gov.uk/travellers) will provide free or discounted health care costs in the EU, but does not cover any repatriation costs.

    Useful sites for comparisons and costs are Travel-Insurance-Web for Europe-only travel and Insure For for world-wide travel.

    References

    Judith Bernstein, Susan C. Awe (1999) "Wired travellers : travel and tourism", Reference Services Review ISSN: 0090-7324 Dec 1999 Vol 27 (4) 364 - 375

    Cullinane S (2002) "The relationship between car ownership and public transport provision: a case study of Hong Kong" Transport policy Vol 9, (1), January 2002, pp. 29-39(11)

    Frost F, T Shanka (1999) "Asian Australian student travel preferences: An empirical study", Asia Pacific Journal of Tourism Research, 1999

    REISINGER Y, F MAVONDO (2004) "Determinants of youth travel market's perceptions of tourism destinations" Page 1. Tourism Analysis, Vol. 7 pp. 55–66 1083-5423/02 2004

    Sheth, A. Bertram, C. Avant, D. Hammond, B. Kochut, K. Warke, Y. (2002) "Managing semantic content for the Web", Internet Computing IEEE Jul/Aug 2002 Vol: 6, (4) 80- 87

    Article Directory: http://www.globalarticlesdirectory.com


    This article was written by Verena Veneeva professional writer working for www.coursework4you.co.uk You are free to reprint this article; however should you do so you must place a hyperlink to Papers4you


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    1

    Useful hotel information

  • Wtmm
  • A hotel is an establishment that provides paid lodging, usually on a short-term basis. Hotels often provide a number of additional guest services such as a restaurant, a swimming pool or childcare. Some hotels have conference services and meeting rooms and encourage groups to hold conventions and meetings at their location. Hotels differ from motels in that most motels have drive-up, exterior entrances to the rooms, while hotels tend to have interior entrances to the rooms, which may increase guests' safety and present a more upmarket image. Basic accommodation of a room with only a bed, a cupboard, a small table and a washstand has largely been replaced by rooms with en-suite bathrooms and climate control. Other features found may be a telephone, an alarm clock, a TV, and broadband Internet connectivity. Food and drink may be supplied by a mini-bar (which often includes a small refrigerator) containing snacks and drinks (to be paid for on departure), and tea and coffee making facilities (cups, spoons, an electric kettle and sachets containing instant coffee, tea bags, sugar, and creamer or milk).

    In the United Kingdom a hotel is required by law to serve food and drinks to all comers within certain stated hours; to avoid this requirement it is not uncommon to come across "private hotels" which are not subject to this requirement. However, in Japan the capsule hotel supplies minimal facilities and room space. The cost and quality of hotels are usually indicative of the range and type of services available. Due to the enormous increase in tourism worldwide during the last decades of the 20th century, standards, especially those of smaller establishments, have improved considerably. For the sake of greater comparability, rating systems have been introduced, with the one to five stars classification being most common.

    "Boutique Hotel" is a term originating in North America to describe intimate, usually luxurious or quirky hotel environments. Boutique hotels differentiate themselves from larger chain or branded hotels by providing an exceptional and personalized level of accommodation, services and facilities. Boutique hotels are furnished in a themed, stylish and/or aspirational manner. Although usually considerably smaller than a mainstream hotel (ranging from 3 to 100 guest rooms) boutique hotels are generally fitted with telephone and wi-fi Internet connections, honesty bars and often cable/pay TV. Guest services are attended to by 24 hour hotel staff. Many boutique hotels have on site dining facilities, and the majority offer bars and lounges which may also be open to the general public. Of the total travel market a small percentage are discerning travelers, who place a high importance on privacy, luxury and service delivery. As this market is typically corporate travelers, the market segment is non-seasonal, high-yielding and repeat, and therefore one which boutique hotel operators target as their primary source of income. A number of hotels have entered the public consciousness through popular culture, such as the Ritz Hotel in London, UK ('Putting on The Ritz') and Hotel Chelsea in New York City, subject of a number of songs and also the scene of the alleged stabbing of Nancy Spungen by her boyfriend Sid Vicious. Hotels that enter folklore like these two are also often frequented by celebrities, as is the case both with the Ritz and the Chelsea. Other famous hotels include the Beverly Hills Hotel, the Hotel Bel-Air and the Chateau Marmont, in California, USA, Watergate complex in Washington DC ,the Hotel Astoria in Saint Petersburg, Russia, the Hotel George V and Hôtel Ritz in Paris, Palazzo Versace hotel on the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia, Hotel Hermitage and Hotel de Paris in Monaco (in the French Riviera) and Hotel Leningradskaya in Moscow. Many hotels can be considered destinations in themselves, by dent of unusual features of the lodging and/or its immediate environment.

    Treehouse hotels Some hotels, such as the Costa Rica Tree House in the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, Costa Rica, or Treetops Hotel in Aberdare National Park, Kenya, are built with living trees as structural elements, making them treehouses. The Ariau Towers near Manaus, Brazil is in the middle of the Amazon, on the Rio Negro. Bill Gates even invested and had a suite built there with satellite internet/phone. Another hotel with treehouse units is Bayram's Tree Houses in Olympos, Turkey Cave hotels Desert Cave Hotel in Coober Pedy, South Australia and the Cuevas Pedro Antonio de Alarcón (named after the author) in Guadix, Spain, as well as several hotels in Cappadocia, Turkey, are notable for being built into natural cave formations, some with rooms underground.

    Capsule hotels Capsule hotels are a type of economical hotels that are quite common in Japan. Ice hotels, such as the Ice Hotel in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, melt every spring and are rebuilt out of ice and snow each winter. Snow hotels The Mammut Snow Hotel in Finland is located within the walls of the Kemi snow castle, which is the biggest in the world. It includes The Mammut Snow Hotel, The Castle Courtyard, The Snow Restaurant and a chapel for weddings, etc. Its furnishings and its decorations, such as sculptures, are made of snow and ice. There is snow accommodation also in Lainio Snow Hotel in Lapland (near Ylläs), Finland. Garden hotels Garden hotels, famous for their gardens before they became hotels, includes Gravetye Manor, the home of William Robinson and Cliveden, designed by Charles Barry with a rose garden by Geoffrey Jellicoe.

    Underwater hotels As of 2005, the only hotel with an underwater room that can be reached without Scuba diving is Utter Inn in Lake Mälaren, Sweden. It only has one room, however, and Jules' Undersea Lodge in Key Largo, Florida, which requires scuba diving, is not much bigger. Hydropolis is an ambitious project to build a luxury hotel in Dubai, UAE, with 220 suites, all on the bottom of the Persian Gulf, 20 meters (66 feet) below the surface. Its architecture will feature two domes that break the surface and an underwater train tunnel, all made of transparent materials such as glass and acrylic. Other unusual hotels The Library Hotel in New York City is unique in that its ten floors are arranged according to the Dewey Decimal System. The Rogers Centre, formerly SkyDome, in Toronto, Canada is the only stadium to have a hotel connected to it, with 70 rooms overlooking the field. The Burj al-Arab hotel in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, built on an artificial island, is structured in the shape of a sail of a boat.

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    Sunday, January 21, 2007

    0

    How to avoid the car hire rip-offs

  • Sunday, January 21, 2007
  • Wtmm
  • In 2006 the car hire industry received almost as much bad press as Lindsay Lohen’s drinking and Britney Spears’ marriage. However, while I’d personally love to sweep the two pop sensations of their feet and put them back on the straight and narrow I know my limitations… so I’ll just show you how to beat the car hire cowboys instead!

    If you’re looking for cheap car hire there’s actually only one place to go. Forget scanning around all of the well-known providers, from Europcar to Hertz and back again… instead stick to one website – travelsupermarket.com.

    Travelsupermarket.com is a travel price comparison websites that compares rates on fields such as flights, package holidays and hotels, searching provider websites to return the cheapest deal to the user. However, it’s on car hire that this website really comes into its own – because the car hire companies are now offering CHEAPER rates through travelsupermarket.com than they are through THEIR OWN websites.

    The issue has garnered press attention with Fred Mawer of the Mail on Sunday reporting that in EVERY instance his research team investigated, travelsupermarket.com beat the provider’s own websites. Here are the examples Fred Mawer gave:

    · From Faro Airport - Through bmibaby.com £104.44 with Europcar, through Europcar's own website £96.81, through travelsupermarket.com £79.99.

    · From Pisa Airport - Through ryanair.com £144.54 with Hertz, through Hertz's own website £158.18, through travelsupermarket.com £122.81.

    · From Nice Airport - Through easyJet.com £148.82 with Europcar, through Europcar's own website £130.34, through travelsupermarket.com £114.70.

    These are massive savings. So next time you’re looking for cheap car hire, beat the cowboys at their own game and secure yourself the cheapest price with one quick search. Then you can drive away with a smile on your face!

    Article Source: http://www.articlewheel.com

    To compare car hire and to find the cheapest car hire deals visit travelsupermarket.com.


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    2

    Step-by-step guide to booking a flight

  • Wtmm
  • With flights more affordable than they have ever been, more and more holidaymakers are heading abroad and planning for their half term and summer getaways early. However, with travel agents, flight operators and online price comparison websites to choose from, finding a cheap flight can still cause a few headaches, so here’s a step-by-step guide to point you in the right direction.

    BOOK EARLY – The longer you leave it, the more you’ll pay. The early bird bags the best deal so consider everything you’ll need to book including flights, accommodation, car hire, airport parking and travel insurance early.

    PICK YOUR DESTINATION – For many a set destination will already be in mind, but if you’re unsure, look at the window of time you have available and decide on the maximum and minimum length of time you want to be away for. The more flexible you can be, the more money you are likely to save.

    TAKE A COMPLETE SEARCH – Though there are many traditionally low-priced airlines such as easyJet and RyanAir, they are not necessarily the cheapest and might not compete with each other on certain destinations. The easiest way to ensure you’re getting the best deal is to use an online comparison service such as travelsupermarket.com to compare prices from hundreds of providers with one search.

    THINK ABOUT WHAT MATTERS – Your holiday won’t get off to a ‘flyer’ if you’re not happy with what’s available on your flight. Be sure to check that you have in-flight meals, potentially select your own seat, or check the amount of luggage you can carry.

    ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES – Don’t be rigid about the airport you use if you want to get the best deal. For example, if you live in the North West of England and traditionally fly from Manchester, why not consider Liverpool John Lennon airport, or a short drive to Birmingham? Regional departure points are usually quieter and often have easier access. Also consider alternative arrival points in your destination… for example, if your heading to the Costa del Sol look beyond Malaga and consider Almeria, Murcia, Gibraltar and other local airports. This could save you time and cash.

    DIRECT OR CHANGEOVERS – Think about whether you want to bother with the hassle of a changeover if you’re taking a long-haul flight. Though direct flights are sometimes more expensive they can be much more convenient and reduce the likelihood of baggage being lost, etc.

    MAKE YOUR BOOKING – Don’t sit and wait for prices to drop, because this is rare. Grab your booking while the price is good and remember to use the name on your passport and read the booking conditions so you know whether you can change or cancel your trip.

    Hopefully with these easy-to-follow tips you can save a bundle on your next flight! Good luck and bon voyage!

    Article Source: http://www.articlewheel.com

    To compare prices on flights and to find cheap flights visit travelsupermarket.com.


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