Sunday, January 29, 2012

Pack for a Stress Free Vacation

You may be thinking about trying to save a few dollars by not checking a bag, but to really have a stress free vacation in the Caribbean you are probably going to fit everything you need into a carry-on. Below are some tips on what to pack in your carry-on and your checked bag to ensure a carefree vacation.

Carry-on

Carry-on bag allowances vary slightly between airline carriers so you may want to double check with your airline to check for size and weight limitations. Typically you can expect a bag limit of no more than total of 45 inches when you add the length + width + height inches together. Be sure to follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule for liquids in your carry-on, 3 ounces, 1 quart, and 1 bag. When packing your carry-on bag you should consider bringing the following items.

Valuables and Electronics

You never know who will have the opportunity to get into your checked bag after it leaves your hands so it is imperative to keep valuables with you.

· Cash/Credit Cards/Travelers Checks

· Passport/ID

· Jewelry

· Electronics - camera, phone, laptop, iPod, etc.

Essential Items

Unfortunately there are times when your checked bag does not arrive with you and may arrive late or not at all.

· Swimsuit - I recommend always packing a swimsuit in your carry-on so if your bag is delayed at least you can still go straight to the beach.

· Personal care items eyeglasses, contacts and solution, sunglasses, toothbrush/paste, and any medications you may need.

· Phone charger

Friday, January 27, 2012

Stay In Style While Traveling

Traveling can make you worn out and disheveled, so you want to dress comfortably while traveling. But this doesn't mean you still can't look your best. Most people think they have to wear sweatpants, old jeans and sneakers to be comfortable while traveling. But whether you're traveling by plane, boat, train or car, you can remain comfortable and still look fabulous. All you need is a few items. Below are some fashion necessities that will keep you in style while traveling.

Leggings: These fashion must-haves are not only comfortable, but they go with just about anything. Wear black leggings under a loosely fitting colorful dress and throw on a cardigan on top if you get chilly. Or wear them under a long t-shirt, a cool hooded sweatshirt, and some stylish sneakers for a more cool and comfortable look. For a different kind of look, opt for leggings in a color other than black. There is a huge variety to choose from. From metallic and shiny to solid colors like blue, purple and green, colorful leggings are a great way to add some color and style to your outfit while still letting you remain comfortable. You can sleep in them on the plane, and then be ready to go out on the town when you hit your destination. Wholesale is one of the best ways I know of to get leggings, since you can get many different colors and styles.

Scarves: Scarves are great especially while traveling, because they are so useful and multi-functional. You can wear the same scarf throughout your whole travel and use it for many different looks. You can tie it around your neck as a scarf while waiting in the airport, throw it over your shoulders as a shawl when on the plane, or tie it around your waist for a funky belt when you get to your new destination. You can even wrap your hair in it if your hair becomes disheveled on the flight. There are also many different ways you can tie a scarf, so you can create different looks with the same scarf throughout your entire trip. These are also worthwhile to get through wholesale clothing.

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

How To Choosing A Luxury Vacation Club Makes Sense

There are plenty of people out there who would really love to have a chance to take an excellent trip to somewhere fabulous and be able to enjoy themselves to the max, but a lot of the time it ends up being a case of not having enough money to be able to do this successfully. Many people do not yet know this but there really is a way to be able to take amazing low cost vacations to all sorts of places around the globe that really do offer amazing escapes. Those who decide that they want to join a luxury vacation club are able to take trips to some of the finest resorts in the world without paying a ton of cash because they have discounts working for them that are going to let them explore the life of luxury at a very appealing price. Most people only ever end up wishing that they could experience this kind of travel, but you can make it a reality today. For some, the best part of this particular method is that they do not have to fool with a timeshare and all of the hassles that it can bring along with it.

You are definitely going to find that if you get a travel club membership you can easily experience any kind of vacation you could dream of for far lower prices than other travelers have to end up paying. In actuality, it would be impossible to find a luxury travel experience that was this low in price any other way. For those who are not yet familiar with the idea of a resort vacation club, it is actually a very simple solution for vacationers that lets them be able to use the club's discount to help them get much lower prices on some of the best resorts in the world. This is a top way that many people are finding it easier to experience the best of the world of travel, seeing many more destinations than they could otherwise.

Monday, January 23, 2012

Celebrity Cruises Eclipse (Cruise Ship Review)

I am writing this review while on my return flight to the U.S., having just spent the past two weeks (14 nights) aboard the Celebrity Eclipse. Launched in April of 2010, the Eclipse joins Celebrity's award-winning family of "Solstice-class" ships, which currently includes the Celebrity Solstice, the Equinox and, in 2011, will also include the Silhouette. So, although I will try to maintain complete objectivity, I must admit that I boarded the Eclipse with very high expectations. Fortunately, with only minor exceptions (as later noted), I was not disappointed.

The "Hardware"

When discussing the physical attributes of a cruise ship (i.e., it's layout and appearance), industry professionals often refer to the ship's "hardware". So, let's start there.

At 122,000 tons (the largest in the Celebrity fleet), the Eclipse was surprisingly easy to get around on and, even with a full capacity of 2,850 passengers (based on double occupancy), the ship never felt crowded. To be perfectly honest, my first impression of the interior décor was that it was a bit "plain" but, as the days onboard passed, I came to appreciate it more and more. Consistent with Celebrity's position in the industry as a "premium" cruise line (as distinguished from "mass market" or "luxury"), the overall look and "feel" of the Eclipse is what I would describe as "subdued elegance". Unlike the "cheap glitz" or "pretentious opulence" of some other ships I've seen, the interior of the Eclipse seemed to be intentionally understated by its designers so that guests (myself included) would feel completely at ease while residing in their upscale home at sea. Colors in the main lobby area were soft and light, while other public areas and lounges (including Michael's Club and Cellar Masters) were adorned in deep natural wood tones with luxurious furnishings and plush carpeting.

Hallways and stairways were sufficiently wide for side-by-side passage of guests and we rarely had to wait more than a minute or two for an elevator. The public bathrooms were immaculate and they were always well-stocked with small single-use cloth towels (rather than paper or hot air dryers).

The pool and solarium areas were spacious enough that finding a comfortable lounge chair was never a problem. However, the jogging track (or "walking path" for those of us over the age of 60) went right through the pool lounging area (so it became something of an "obstacle course") and it didn't go completely around the entire ship.

Perhaps the most unique feature of the ship's "hardware" was the "Lawn Club". I must admit that a negative pre-conceived notion (based on photos and descriptions that I saw) may have clouded my expectation. But, after spending just a few minutes watching fellow passengers playing croquet or basking in the sun on the finely manicured natural grass, I realized that the photographs of this area in Celebrity's brochures and television commercials could not capture it's peaceful serenity. I loved it!

Saturday, January 21, 2012

Ways Make Your Home Feel Like a Special Getaway (Staycations)

Staying at home because you can't afford a pricey trip doesn't mean you can't still have a fabulous vacation. People usually focus on acting like a tourist in their hometowns during their staycations. However, you shouldn't overlook enhancing your home environment as well, so it feels like a different place. To make being at home feel like a vacation, treat your space as if you were getting it ready for guests to come over. Only this time you are the guest!

1. Decorate with fresh flowers - Either buy ready-made arrangements from your local flower shop or grocery store, or assemble simple arrangements yourself. Sticking with a single color for each arrangement is the best way to achieve stylish flowers. And since you took the week off work anyway, why not try your hand at flower arranging?

2. Use candles to enhance your lighting and mood - Set out votive candles throughout your home, and keep them lit every evening until you go to bed. Candles are a quick, easy way to create a soothing atmosphere. Even big box stores now offer spa-themed candles that can go a long way towards transforming your home into a 5 star resort.

3. Stock your kitchen with food and drinks you normally would not have - One of the main advantages of staying at home is not spending lots of money to eat out for every meal. However, instead of eating your regular rotation of foods, mix things up. Stock your kitchen with out-of-the-ordinary snacks like crudite, rosemary almonds, and freshly baked cookies. Also treat yourself to some new wines or interesting glass bottle sodas. Prepare a favorite special occasion meal, like herb-crusted beef tenderloin.

Thursday, January 19, 2012

How To Take the Train to Aix En Provence

France's Cote d'Azure region is much loved for its unique weather and warm beaches. The famous French Riviera draws most of the crowds:

- The famous Grand Prix Races of Monaco, likely the most famous car race in the world
- The renowned Casino Monte Carlo, one of the most celebrated casinos in the world
- The Prestigious Cannes International Film Festival, unquestionably the most famous such festival in the world

But the less rich and less famous enjoy the beaches and the sun elsewhere in the Cote d'Azure. And some of them (especially Cézanne admirers) find their way just a short trip inland north of Marseille to a medieval town that was actually founded by the Romans in 123 BC (the date sounds like a pre-schooler lesson, doesn't it?) - Aix en Province.

Yes, it is inland, so not ideal for lying on the beach. But the weather is every bit as nice, with the warm Mediterranean winds blowing in from the sea, and the town located on the south-facing slope of the highlands above Marseille.

What draws Cézanne admirers in particular is that he loved the town and the area around it, and spent many years painting there. If you know your Cézanne paintings, you will find them all over town. The Bibémus quarries, located just below Mount Sainte-Victoire, can be seen. These provided Cézanne with their curious motifs of their ochre-colored rock faces, in geometric patterns. You will find these prominently featured in many of Cézanne's landscapes.

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

The Jewel of the Alps (Skiing in Les Menuires)

When it comes to skiing, Les Menuires provides you with one of the best opportunities to enjoy both the slopes and the delights of after ski attractions. Les Menuires is ideally located in the top portion of the Belleville Valley, part of the world-renowned Three Valleys region in the French Alps. From Les Menuires, you can head off for a variety of skiing adventures at Méribel, Courchevel and Val Thorens.

Ideal Location - Skiing

For those going on a holiday skiing, Les Menuires, at 1850 m (6070 ft) amidst the Trois Vallées, provides the ideal location for tackling the slopes. You can ski down the resort's 160 km of pistes taking on the 25 blue and/or 24 red runs - or even the 9 black pistes. You can also access, with one easy pass (pun intended), the ski slopes at the nearby ski resorts of La Tania, Courchevel, Méribel, Saint Marten de Belleville and Val Thorens. From the resort's guaranteed snow to the region's best skiing, Les Menuires provides holidaymakers with skiing for every level. For absolute beginners there is the acclaimed École du Ski Français (ESK), and the slopes also address novice's needs as well as those of more advanced skiers. Indeed it does not matter what their level of skiing, Les Menuires satisfies the needs of everyone. Then, there are the away-trails and experiences. You can slalom through the trees that make up the forests surrounding nearby Méribel, Courchevel and La Tania. You can also ski down the beautiful blue-tinged slopes of La Masse to St. Marten de Belleville, or even further to Val Thorens. At Val Thorens, you can ski down the Glacier du Bouchet or ride the chair lift some 3,230 meters above the glacier. This is the highest lift access in the entire Trois Vallées. As for skiing on the Glacier du Bouchet - many consider this off-piste at its finest. The area also has other glaciers you might want to explore, but be aware that in some instances you will need to go with a group. An expert guide will lead you to the area and supervise your experience skiing on a glacier.


Sunday, January 15, 2012

Of Private Air Charter Services

Air charter, in its basic definition, is a business of renting out aircraft for individuals or groups of people or company for vacation or business trips. For these individuals and companies, taking a private flight is like owning the entire aircraft. They pay high costs for the benefits and services the airline gives them in return. Truly, booking a private aircraft flight is a luxurious way of traveling. Private air charter services come in various forms. This article will discuss the tops 3 of these services. Many businessmen and elite people are now demanding for these services. If you are one of those who plan to avail of these, it is well for you to find out which types of service you will need.

The first type of service is the Ad-hoc private charter service. This package consists of hiring an aircraft as an individual or as a representative of your company or organization. With this, you can be able to purchase the jet or plane for your company or avail of the services of the airline company on a lease basis. You can get special price from the airline if your company has repeatedly availed of their services or will need such services frequently.

The second type of service is the Air Taxi or On Demand Services. This type is typically on a per trip basis. Among all the types of services nowadays, it is the most popular one. It is you and you alone who shall decide upon your destination, date of flight or travel and the type of aircraft. This type of service is offered by many private airline companies in different states.

The third one is the Private Charter Membership. If you frequently travel, this one is ideal and beneficial for you. If you become members of some companies, they can offer you great rates. The benefits you can take advantage of are better than those of the non-members.


Friday, January 13, 2012

Explain Importance of a Private Jet Travel

A private jet may seem an absurd expenditure to some people, but business people will find that being able to charter a jet at any time can be quite useful. Not only that, but the speed and privacy of it is unmatched, which allows these people to prepare presentations or conduct business meetings en route to an important destination. While it is possible to completely buy a private jet, most people use a jet car, which is much cheaper.

The common airport is typically a mobbed mess full of people that are impatient to get onto their flight. Not only that, but planes are commonly late and the entire experience is uncomfortable. With a private jet, owners can charter the plane at any time, so they do not have to go through this mess. Another benefit that most owners don't think of is the private jet's size. Since the jet is smaller than most commercial planes, it can land in many more airports. This means owners can find more convenient locations if closer airports are nearby.

Money is important to any businessperson, and time equals money. Chartering a private jet allows owners to fly much quicker. Instead of waiting hours to get onto the flight, waiting for everyone to get on and waiting for the plane to get ready for take off, the jet is prepped and ready. These planes are typically faster as well, so it is possible to reach destinations much faster. There are also no intrusive security checks, unlike with commercial planes, which makes everything that much quicker.

Flying in first class on a commercial plane may seem private, since there are less people, but it isn't quite enough to conduct any important business. With a private jet, the passengers are all alone. This means they can have or create presentations, have business meetings or talk about marketing plans without people overhearing them.


Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Rent a Limo for Any Occasion

Renting a limo for any occasion only enhances the experience in the best possible way. If you plan to rent a limo, here are some tips for you to keep in mind. Before you set out to look at any limo companies, get some basic details down right. What is the occasion, how many people you plan to accommodate in the limo and what kind of features you want in it.

Once you have all these details down perfectly, then you will be able to settle things faster with a limo company. Another aspect for you to look into is getting value for your money. For the budget that you have in mind, make sure that you get all the features that you are looking for.

The kind of limo you choose depends on the occasion and the theme you have. A bachelor party with a stretch Hummer limo would be a great choice. Using a classic white limo to get to your prom or a stretch black shiny one for your wedding would set the mood to a great function ahead. Ask the company on the features you will get like music, beverages as well as customized interiors. Almost anything you want can be got for a price. However, do make sure that all your requirements are within the permissible norms in your state.

In some cases, you may need luggage space and this is something that you will have to ask beforehand if you need. When you customize an entire plan for your limo, make sure that you ask for the final price of all that you need when you make your booking for the limo. Factor in all the add-ons and then get the quotation. Also think of the tip you will need to give to the driver etc. Only when get the full price will you able to make a good decision.

Look through the various packages that are available. There are a number of them available that can be further customized depending on the occasion you are renting them out for. Also make sure that you make your reservations well in advance so that you are not left with something that you are not too happy with.

Monday, January 9, 2012

An Idyllic Tour (Flights To Singapore)

Singapore offers diverse sights and attractions to travelers. It is a young and multi ethnic country. It is one of the most advanced Asian countries. The place is famous for artistic beauty and magnificent architecture. Parks and nature reserves are spread all over the land.

Flights to Singapore are provided by different airlines and travel companies. Excellent tour packages are offered in the market consisting of flight, hotel bookings and sightseeing tours. Rented cars are available in the various car rental shops of the city. Luxurious hotels and simple guesthouses are used as accommodation for visitors. Elegant malls and markets offer excellent products to customers.

The Singapore Zoo is considered to be one of the best in the world. The zoo is the home of nearly 3,600 mammals, birds and reptiles. Endangered species such as orangutans, Malayan tiger, white rhino, proboscis monkey and Komodo dragon are found here. Numerous habitats have been built here and one can watch animals in their natural landscape. A tram service offers beautiful view of the different areas of the zoo. The Jurong Bird Park is another important destination. The place adds to the charm of Singapore and nearly 600 species of birds are found here. Many bird shows are presented to entertain the visitors. Singapore Night Safari offers us a chance to watch various species of nocturnal animals. A tram ride during the night hours is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The cheapest flights to Singapore are offered from different locales of the globe. Take a tour of the Underwater World. Captivating ocean creatures and other endangered underwater animals can be seen here. Du gongs, sea dragons, leopard shark, porcupine fish, lion fish, sharks and rays are the main attraction of this aquarium. The Night Ocean Discovery Program is something one should never miss. Visitors will really cherish the feeling of watching the nocturnal sea animals in their natural environment.

Saturday, January 7, 2012

Choose the Right Tent For You

Unless you own an RV, your tent will be your home while you are camping. As anyone who has ever slept in a tent knows it is important to get the right one or you may be in for a rough night or nights. There are so many tents on the market these days; how do you know which one is the one you need? There are a few questions to ask yourself before making your big purchase.

1. How many people will be sleeping in your tent? If you are making a solo trip, you probably don't need the biggest tent you can buy. On the other hand, if you are taking your spouse and three children, you don't want to be cramped up in too close quarters. Most tents will have a label that indicates its dimensions and how many people it will hold.

2. What are your other basic needs? What is the weather expected to be like where you are camping? Will you be camping in extreme heat or cold? Answers to these questions can help you narrow down your requirements for your tent.

3. What is your budget? This is pretty self-explanatory. You always want to get the best for what you can afford, even if you are on a very low budget.

4. How will you be getting the tent to your campsite? If you plan to go backpacking and it will be up to you or your companions to carry the tent, you want to know how much it is going to weigh and if you are capable of taking it as far as you need to. Many new campers think of tents as just a soft bit of material you can fold up and stuff in your bag; they do not realize tents have poles and other components.

5. Do you need special features? Many modern tents have features you would never imagine. From shock-cords that allow for a speedy set-up to mesh panels that keep the bugs out and the breeze in, again, figure out what your basic needs are. If you are camping in the middle of January, breezes and bugs probably aren't that high on your priority list.

6. What color and fabric should you choose? This is not just an aesthetic question; different fabrics and colors can make a big difference when it comes to your tent. Some fabrics are more durable than others, and some are warmer or cooler. Darker colors attract more heat, while lighter colors are better for summer camping trips.

7. Do you need a waterproof tent? If there is even the slightest chance your tent could get wet, you will want a tent that is coated to be waterproof. If your tent gets wet, you can forget sleeping. Even worse, in colder temperatures, you can find yourself facing hypothermia. A waterproof tent will have a shiny coating on the floor and on the rain fly. Also, most tents have a weather rating - be sure your tent is suitable for whatever conditions you will be camping in.

Thursday, January 5, 2012

Avoid Altitude Sickness When You Are Trekking at High Altitude

You are close to book your trek and it is easy to forgot the most important issue. I am not talking about specific equipment or checking your flight details all over again, but actually to look after yourself while you are trekking at high altitude.

It is hard to know exactly what you should look out for when you are surfing the net to find your dream trek. There are many travel agents trying to seduce you with selling arguments like, "best price", "most experienced guides" or "we know this mountain better than anybody else". Maybe they are the most experienced, but for you to know what you should look for, you must ask them about how their acclimatization schedule is like.

Tips that you should know before talking to a travel agent.

• Altitude above 3000 meters (10000 feet) is usually defined high altitude. You must not race up the hills. Do a nice and slow ascent to give your body the best chance to adapt to higher altitude.

• Your sleeping elevation should not increase more than 300-400 meters daily. It is fine to get acclimatized a little bit higher than 400 meters during the day, BUT you must get back down lower to sleep. Every second or third day you should sleep at the same elevation as your prior night.

• A good rule of thumb, listen to your body. Light headache is okay, but developing severe headache and/or you feeling fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting or sleeping problems is bad. These are the ways your body is ringing the alarm bells. Trek lower if you are feeling worse or at least do NOT ascent.

It might be fatal to neglect these warning signs, so please be cautious and talk to your guide and friends if you feeling strange or sick.


Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Here Parador Granada Activities

Staying at the Parador Granada presents the visitor with many choices of places to visit, and activities in which to participate. First of all, obviously, is the fantastical Alhambra. This unique place in the world was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.

If on your first visit to Granada, try to spend at a minimum a long "half-day" inside the Alhambra grounds. It is a unique experience that you will want to savor slowly. We recommend two visits while staying at the Parador Granada - once during the morning or afternoon entry sessions, and once during the night opening session - when the lights are switched on to light up the monuments. It's an absolutely memorable experience!

The city of Granada itself is situated in the shadow of the mountains of the Sierra Nevada chain. Granada was founded by the Phoenicians 800 years B.C.(!) It holds much of interest for the visitor.

The Albacin quarter is especially interesting. This is a typical old Moorish section of narrow winding cobblestone streets and white-washed traditional stucco houses. There are many quaint shops and cafes. With the awesome Alhambra overlooking everything from far above, a long, leisurely wander through the Albaicin makes for a wonderful morning or afternoon.

The Granada Cathedral should not be skipped. Construction was started in early 16th century within the site of a far older Islamic mosque. It required 175 years (!) to finish, and it has architectural elements from the Medieval and Renaissance, as well as the Baroque eras.

Most visitors have heard of the Sacramonte. This is a prime tourist destination, and is comprised of white-washed cave dwellings (still in use today), typical Andalusian restaurants, souvenir shops, and the ever-present gypsies offering to perform flamenco, or read your palm, or sell you flowers, etc. It is all great fun (if a bit too commercialized), and supremely photogenic. For the historically minded, there are catacombs to visit, and an old Abbey complex.

Yet another fascinating site is the Royal Chapel., The Catholic Monarchs (Ferdinand and Isabella) issued a decree that - regardless where they were to die - that their remains would be brought here and entombed within this royal burial chamber. They remain there to this day. There's an amazing museum connected to the tombs - and, at least for history buffs, it is well worth a visit.

Sunday, January 1, 2012

Avoid Traveler's Diarrhea

International travel can be fun and exciting, but it can also leave you vulnerable to what is commonly called traveler's diarrhea. Traveler's diarrhea is caused by ingesting harmful bacteria from contaminated food or drink. The countries where you are at the highest risk of being infected are the developing countries of Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. It can happen to anyone, but there are ways to reduce your chance of becoming a victim of traveler's diarrhea.

Eat safe food

Unlike what many people believe, exotic or unusual food is not the cause of traveler's diarrhea - so enjoy! Just keep in mind that thoroughly cooked foods are the safest items on the menu. It is undercooked or raw foods that put you most at risk for the disease. Avoid eating foods or drinking beverages from street vendors. Don't think for a moment that fresh fruits and vegetables are safe either. The bacterium that causes the disease is found in fresh fruits and vegetables as well. Just remember that nothing should go into your body that has not been cooked or boiled thoroughly.

Drink safe liquids

Travelers are always advised to rely on bottled water. In many developing countries, water is usually the reason for traveler's diarrhea. You may be used to safe tap water in your own country, but it could be dangerous in many places around the world. If you cannot find bottled water, you will need to use water purification tablets and drops, or boil the water for at least 15 minutes. Water purification tablets are available in many drug stores and sporting goods stores. Again, avoid buying beverages from street vendors.

Wash your hands well

If you're not used to washing your hands before eating at home, you need to get into the habit overseas. Your uncovered skin is exposed to a multitude of germs. As a result, your hands and not your food may be the source of the harmful bacteria that caused traveler's diarrhea.