Ten Reasons Why People Travel on Safari

When we go on an African safari we make a point of chatting to other visitors and over the past sixteen years we have compiled the following list of top ten motives people leave the comfort of their homes in order to travel to Southern or East Africa on a guided or self-drive safari.
If you have been on safari, or are thinking of going, see if your motive ties up with any of the ten that are listed below.

They are listed in order of importance:
1. Relaxation - People need to escape the stress of work and just relax. Some people relax at the swimming pool, read a book on the camp lawns, while others want solitude - the peace and quiet that you get at the Kruger bushveld camps or Kgalagadi wilderness camps. However you relax, recharging your batteries by breaking away from routine in an African national park is good medicine!

2. Photography - The 'big-five', 'super-seven' and 'elusive-eleven' are all exciting animals to photograph and your photos will provide perfect souvenirs for you to take back home. The Southern African parks of Kruger, Kgalagadi, Etosha and Pilanesberg are ideal game-viewing destinations as they all provide excellent opportunities for wildlife photography.

3. Nature - Some people go on an African safari for educational reasons such as to observe endangered species, documenting certain animals and plants or to see how many different birds and mammals they can see and tick-off.

5. Food and Culture - People want to experience different cultures and an African safari will expose you to many unique cultures, from the Himba tribe in Namibia and the Zulus in South Africa to the Maasai in Kenya. And don't forget the many different foods! We have had delicious German food in Namibia; succulent seafood in Mozambique & Tanzania and tasted nearly every game animal in South Africa, of which elephant and impala were yummy.
6. Attractions - These could be natural attractions such as impressive landscapes like the Victoria Falls or luxury accommodation such as is found in the Kruger Park's private lodges or the East African parks. Another attraction is the climate - when it's snowing in Europe and America, Africa has sunny skies with balmy evenings!

7. Activities - Nature photo-tours, hiking, mountain biking, horse-back or elephant-back safaris and even conferences are activities that can enhance your safari experience.

8. Honeymoon - If you are getting married you want to go to a special place to celebrate and most of the southern and east African national parks provide the ideal setting for you. Most game reserves and rest camps have at least one private chalet that is perfect for honeymooners.

9. Spiritual - The African safari experience will affect most people and they should start thinking about life - appreciating what they have, thanking God for His many blessings and also pondering on questions like 'where do we come from?', 'what is the purpose of life?' and 'what happens to us after we die?'.

10. Healing - People often visit national parks to scatter the ashes of a loved one as the place has special significance for them. The Kruger Park is one such popular place where you can combine a safari with the healing act of returning a loved one to nature.

So, you may identify with one of the reasons above or your motive may be a combination of the above points. Whatever the case, travelling on a safari can, and should be, an unforgettable experience.

Mario Fazekas is a wildlife photographer living in South Africa, and is the webmaster of http://www.kruger-2-kalahari.com - For a FREE Southern African Safari Guide please visit us here http://www.kruger-2-kalahari.com/stay-in-touch.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mario_Fazekas

Read More

Summer in Vancouver - Our Top 10 Things To See

Vancouver is full of life through-out the city, all summer long. These are some of our favorite things to do, while in Vancouver during the Summer season.

1. Capilano Suspension Bridge spans 450 feet across and 230 feet above Capilano River. The bridge is just one of the fun adventures in Capilano Park. You may also test your limits on the Cliffwalk, or Treetops Adventure. Admission fee does apply.

2. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden is truly breathtaking anytime of the year, but even more special in the summer months. The bright colors, authentic decor/architecture, and general vibe are truly something that you can't miss. No admission fee for most parts of the garden.

3. Gastown is the oldest commercial district in Vancouver, which is best known for it's gorgeous Victorian-style architecture. You'll find restaurants, art galleries, antique shops, clothing stores, souvenir shops, and so much more.

4. Granville Island is fun, and funky destination that the whole family will love. Grab a bite to eat in the Granville Island market, check out artists studios/galleries, play in a free waterpark, or sit pier side and watch some entertainers. You truly can't go wrong with this destination from morning to night.

5. Grouse Mountain is located about 30 minutes from the downtown Vancouver core. A gondola will take you to the top of the mountain where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the entire city, take a hike on one of the many trails, or even visit a bear habitat. Admission fees apply.

6. Stanley Park is an absolute must. A full day can be spent walking the paths, biking the sea wall, or enjoying the rose gardens. Stanley Park host beach's, the best city skyline views, artists, gardens, a light house, and even a miniature train that the whole family can ride.

7. Telus World Of Science is a large science learning center for the entire family that was built for the World Expo, when it came to Vancouver in 1986. They've hosted exhibits about dinosaurs, the human body, Titanic, and so much more. Admission fees apply.

8. Vancouver Aquarium is home to BC's largest public aquarium. They have a huge array of sea life, which includes varieties of whales, fish, sea creatures, sea plants, corals, and more. Get lost for a few hours at this location and learn about our friends in the sea. Admission fees apply.

9. Vancouver Art Gallery hosts various arts from all around the world. We strongly recommend taking a look at their website to find out which artists are currently on exhibit, that way you don't miss a favorite artist while visiting Vancouver.

10. VanDusen Botanical Gardens is a great escape from the city life, yet it's only 15 minutes or less from the downtown core. You can expect to see every color of the rainbow, unique garden decor, and vegetation that is extremely well kept. Admission fees apply.

We recommend http://www.partybus.com/vancouver/bc/canada to find Vancouver party bus companies. They're a directory of transportation companies worldwide. The party bus rentals in Vancouver that they offer will allow your group to enjoy the sights and sounds of the city, while relaxing in comfort on one of the party buses.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kyle_A_Benzies

Read More

Dubai, the Travel Guide

Dubai was formally established in 1833 by Sheikh Maktoum bin Buti al Maktoumt though earliest mention of Dubai is in 1095 AD, and the earliest settlement in the region dates from 1799. Now one of the most advanced cities of the middle east the model of business that drives its economy are now based on tourism, real estate, and financial services, reducing it;s dependency on the oil. Dubai's property market experienced a major deterioration in 2007-2009 because of the worldwide economic downturn following the financial crisis of 2007-2012.As of 2012, Dubai is the 22nd most expensive city in the world.

Places to visit
Dubai Museum
Dubai Museum is the main museum in Dubai and was built in 1787. It is the oldest existing building in Dubai. The aim of opening the museum was to present the traditional way of life in the Emirate of Dubai. It includes local antiquities as well as artifacts from African and Asian countries that traded with Dubai. In 2007, Dubai Museum welcomed 2000 visitors daily, with a yearly total of 650000. The most popular times are from August to April.

Burj Khalifa
Burj Khalifa also known as Burj Dubai prior to its inauguration, is a skyscraper in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and is the tallest man-made structure in the world, at 829.8m.

The Dubai Fountain
The Dubai Fountain is a choreographed fountain system set on Burj Khalifa Lake, at the center of the Downtown Dubai. It was designed by a California-based company responsible for the fountains at the Bellagio Hotel Lake in Las Vegas. Illuminated by 6,600 lights and 25 colored projectors, it is 275m long and shoots water 240 feet into the air accompanied by a range of classical to contemporary Arabic and world music. It was built at a cost of AED 800 million.

Wafi City
The complex includes a mall, hotel, restaurants, residences, and a nightclub. All the walls are the color of the light brown stone that can be found on all structures in Ancient Egypt.

Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House
Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House is the former residential quarters of Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, former ruler of Dubai in UAE.

Hotels
The Arabian Park Hotel Dubai
The Arabian Park Hotel Dubai is located in the center of Dubai. The Arabian Park Hotel Dubai is located at Bur Dubai Garhoud Bridge in Jadaf, behind the Al Wasl hospital. Guests can take advantage of complimentary airport and beach transfers.

The Royal Plaza Hotel Apartments
The Royal Plaza Hotel Apartments Dubai is easily accessible by car, and guests can get to many of the area's attractions on foot or on the city's public transportation system. It also offers a free shuttle system to the city's major attractions.

Food
Basta Art Cafe
Simple lunch and dinner items include healthy sandwiches, wraps, and salads - with plenty of vegetarian options. There's also a special menu for little ones.

Rock Bottom
A restaurant by day, Rock Bottom gets kicking after 10pm when the in-house band hits the stage. Dress casually, and be prepared to dance. With a closing hour of 3am, this is one of the latest bars open in Dubai.

To prepare your best trip for Dubai, it is suggested not to take the help of local tour guides as they charge the travelers heavily. Instead one can use various online solutions such as an online travel planner Trip Tern which would prepare their trip for free in a couple of seconds.

Planning for Dubai is one of the most difficult task. The best way to plan for Rome is to plan the entire itinerary before hand. Online free trip planning solutions like Trip Tern ( http://triptern.com ) will prepare a custom itinerary automatically in just a few seconds and that too for free!. Just log into http://triptern.com and enter the city, days and hotels (no booking needed) and prepare your travel plan. Also save your plan in using your facebook account so that you can view it whenever you need. Also get to know about hundreds of attractions in Dubai using their travel guide

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alex_Disuza

Read More

Travel Guide to USA - Do Not Miss the Pleasure of Touring America

The United States of America is one of the richest and most powerful countries in the world. People from all over the world come here for different reasons. Some parts of the country are thickly populated while some are scarcely populated and the land left unexploited is really very picturesque presenting a panoramic view. Though it is not easy to describe this vast country in short, here is a travel guide to USA to help you what to see and make your trip to America a great pleasure.

America is a land rich with forests, mountains, prairie region and much more. There are hundreds of tourist-spots to see and enjoy. In the eastern shoreline of the country, there are big cities like New York, the most popular and the most important business hub with many skyscrapers. You must visit Washington D.C., the capital of the United States.

Don't miss to see the famous White House, the house of President. The city has many museums to fascinate the tourists. These museums depict the culture, lifestyle, art and architecture, and the rich legacy of the country. Boston also known as Bean Town and Atlanta are also worth visiting cities. The 1996 Olympics were held here.

Now come to Miami, one of the most popular International Tourist Destinations in the world. It is also popular for its Latin Culture, boundless nightlife, and spectacular beaches. Moving further on towards the west shore from Washington to California, one will find the most remarkable spots for recreation and adventure sports. Another most popular and wonderful city is Los Angeles. It is the full world in itself, a place full of life in all colors. This world famous film industry Hollywood is also located here.Its beaches are awesome and best for surfing. Colorado is the best place for breathtaking adventures. Go there for white water rafting.

On the Pacific Coast Highway is the beautiful city San Francisco. The famous Golden Gate Bridge and the prison island Alcatraz is located here. The wonderful beaches and the mountains covered by clouds are worth viewing. Tourists can have day trips to beaches, deserts and wine countries. Located on the coast of the Great Lakes, the Windy City Chicago is said to be the fastest developing city in the world. The first skyscraper was built in Chicago and the city is known for its theaters, its strong culture of music, the Jazz, and Blues. There are a lot more to see in the USA. One must not miss the pleasure of touring America.

Browse through the extensive USA Travel Guide For All to find detailed information regarding flights to US, tourist destinations, state-wise travel information, and lots more.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eshwarya_Patel

Read More

Taking A Trip To The Middle East

It's exciting to pick a vacation spot. Your interests, dreams and level of practicality are all tied up in deciding where you will go. Many people choose to take an overseas vacation. They make this choice because there are ancient lands that represent thousands of years of history and culture. The Middle East is one such place. The cultural and historical value of this area of the world can't be matched.

Generally speaking a trip to the Middle East would take one to the land of the Pharaohs, pyramids, Sphinx and the Nile River. With 98% of the population speaking Egyptian-Arabic, it is truly a cultural experience for most people. The Middle Eastern countries have not been influenced by the modernization seen in most European countries. In the larger cities, there are some modern places to visit, but it is the historical and cultural areas that fascinate most tourists.

There are many things that one can do for adventure on a trip to the Middle East. You can take a camel ride around the pyramids, take a drive into Old Cairo to see the landmarks, and take a cruise down the Nile River. You can view famous Egyptian history at the museum that includes art and treasures back to the famous Tut-Ankh-Amon period.

You will want to visit the country of Jordan when traveling through your Middle East tour. This beautiful land has ministered to people both spiritually and mentally. The rich history and culture of the area has made Jordan tours very popular. There are recordings of Bible events that took place here, from miracles to messages by many of the ancient prophets. While in Jordan, you would get to visit the Dead Sea, Petra and Mt Nebo, along with many other amazing places.

Many of the Middle Eastern tours will also take you into part of Israel. Because the culture of these countries is so intertwined, you can have the opportunity to take it all in while on your tour. That's why it's wise to look into each tour package carefully so you can find the trip that is perfect for your vacation. For those ready for even more adventure, there are some optional activities that are often available.

There is a Pyramid Sound and Light Show, Nile Dinner Cruise with shows, climbing up Mt. Sinai, and baptisms in the Jordan River. It's fun to take in at least a few of these optional activities, as they are often the ones that leave the best memories of your trip.

Many people will arrive in Egypt a day before their tour actually begins. This will give them time to recover from jet lag and rest before the actual tour begins. In fact, many travel agencies include special rates in their Middle Eastern tours for that extra day of rest and relaxation in preparation for the fun and excitement that lie ahead in the Middle East.

You will enjoy both Egypt tours or Jordan tours while visiting the Middle East. Both of these tours will take you to parts of the Middle East where you can soak in the atmosphere, mingle with the people and enjoy time resting and relaxing. Visit our website today for more information.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Harel

Read More

9 of the Best Mediterranean Cruise Destinations

The Mediterranean is a fantastic destination for your cruise vacation. The weather is fantastic and it has some of the most stunningly beautiful places on the earth. The Mediterranean Sea is a major body of water south of Europe, west of Asia, and north of Africa and cruise lines have been visiting this area since cruise liners have existed! With mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers the Mediterranean is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.

Action-packed Mediterranean cruises are a great way to explore this stunning part of the world and Below we have listed and 9 of the top ports that your Mediterranean cruise should call at.

1. Barcelona is the largest city in Spain and capital of Catalonia. Being on the Spanish mainland the weather is slightly warmer than the Spanish islands. Barcelona is a busy city but with a very relaxed atmosphere. Coffee shops, small bars, busy town center squares and shopping are the name of the game as well as glorious palm lined beaches. The city is clean and the locals are friendly and welcoming. One of the most popular tourist destinations is the city football stadium that is famous throughout the world.

2. Palma is a port on the popular Spanish island of Majorca. Majorca is one of the Balearic islands and is a popular starting destination for many European cruises. The island is an extremely popular tourist destination for European travelers. The port itself is located on the south of the island, the rest of the island is easily explored via bus or public transport but because of the size of the island, a car rental will make exploration much easier. Half of the total population of Majorca live in Palma so it is definitely worth traveling the island to see the quieter side.

3. Tunis is a city in Tunisia and will be a completely different experience to the other Mediterranean cruise destinations. Tunisia is an Arabic country and it is worth checking the beliefs before you land at port. Shore excursions will reveal an old world type city with a typical African appearance. The climate in Tunis is hot and dry and you should dress appropriately. Get your haggling hat on, everything can be bartered here. In fact the locals expect you to barter so don't be shy and grab a bargain at the many street markets that litter the area.

4. All roads lead to Rome...Or in this case, waters. Rome is a must see. You have to see it to believe it. Some of the most famous monuments and architecture in the world is in Rome. The Colosseum is just one of the famous landmarks. Rome is the capital of Italy and the largest city in Italy. Romes history as a city spans over 2,500 years and it shows. The unbelievably beautiful architecture is everywhere. Be sure to get yourself into the city when the ship stops at this port.

5. Genoa is another city in Italy but with a more traditional appearance. Parts of the old town area are inscribed on the world heritage list and as such are untouched by modern architecture. A refreshing change from the big city of Rome Genoa has a more relaxed and countryside atmosphere.

6. St Raphael is on the French Riviera and has a more tolerable climate that some of the other Mediterranean ports. Immediately West of Monte Carlo St Raphael is a lovely, quaint town on the South East of France and has some of the most stunning beach front boulevards in the world. Palm trees and little shopping boutiques are the sights you will see.

7. Another port in Italy is Naples. Being further south than Rome the weather will be slightly warmer and towards the winter months this difference will be noticeable. Naples is a known for its rich history, art and culture. Naples is over 2,800 years old and the area is steeped in lovely old architecture and historic landmarks. Eating in Naples is an experience like no other, they really put the extra effort in when it comes to their food. Five start fresh seafood is on offer everywhere, your food will be as fresh as possible, sometimes being caught a couple of hours before.

8. Monte Carlo is one of Monaco's administrative areas. Monte Carlo lies in the French Riviera on the Mediterranean Sea in Monaco surrounded by France and close to Italy. Monte Carlo is known across the world as a playground for the rich and famous and the casinos are the main attraction. Monte Carlo is tiny. The permanent population is 3,000. If you are lucky enough to stop at the right time of the year you may be able to watch the Formula 1 Grand prix.

9. Corsica is a recently added destination to most Mediterranean cruises and is the fourth largest island in the Mediterranean sea. Located west of Italy it has a similar climate to Rome. Although located closer to Italy than France, Corsica is actually French owned. Corsica is famous as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte and there are references to him everywhere. Corsica is not as tourist populated as some of the other cruise destinations and as such is extremely peaceful.

This is by no means a complete list of Mediterranean destinations. The Med is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

Cruises to the Mediterranean [http://www.123cruiselines.com/cruises/cruiseart/87/] are the best way to see this stunning area of the world without having to worry about internal flights and traveling to each location separately. Cruises to the Mediterranean may be cheaper than you think and offer more variety than most other cruise destinations.
Click here for cruise reviews and advice.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steven_Kirby

Read More

How Can Travel Insurance Be Beneficial?

Why do you need Travel Insurance?
When you go on a trip there are many things that you need to plan, like where you should go, what you should pack, what are you supposed to do once you get there. However, no matter how well you do your planning; there are somethings on which you cannot have your control like and these are the exact things that travel insurance covers:

• Your flight may get cancelled.
• Your luggage may get lost, which may also be having your medicines or prescription in it.
• Your wallet and passport may go missing, and you may need a passport replacement and emergency cash.
• You may meet with an accident and do not get any medical attention.
• You may need to cancel your tour due to unavoidable circumstances.
• Your tour operator, airline or cruise line may become bankrupt. In such a case you will need the non-refundable costs covered and reach your destination.
• You may fall ill in a foreign land and need immediate medical attention.
• A natural disaster forces you to leave your hotel.
• A terrorist attack happens in the city you have planned to visit, forcing you to cancel your trip.

What are the different types of Travel Insurance?
Depending your unique circumstances there are different types of policies that you can choose from. The different circumstances may include the length of your trip, the people you will be travelling with, the activities that you will be performing while on the tour, etc.
Now let's have a look at the different coverages that you can opt from:

Single Trip Travel Insurance
As the very name suggests, this policy covers you only for a single trip. You can use it for yourself or your family by buying it before you go on each trip. This can be expensive depending on how often and how many of you go on a tour.

Annual Multi Trip Travel Insurance
Under this you can travel as many times as you want for the particular span of time during which the policy is alive, which is possibly a period of 12 months. Hence, if you are a frequent traveler, this can be cheap for you.
Some users restrict the number of trips that you can have, while others do not have any such provisions.

Worldwide Travel Insurance
If you are planning to tour two or three continents then you may need this type of policy. You will not need this cover if you are willing to tour only Europe, but if you plan to tour Australia, America and New Zealand as well. Such a policy may be apt for a backpacking tour or a gap year, if it is bought as an annual policy.

Winter Sports Travel Insurance
This type of cover is needed if you are planning to go for a snowboarding, skiing, sledging trip, etc. This policy however, charges a high premium because it is extremely probable to get injured while being on such trips.

These are only a few main types of trips; there are several other types of insurance policies that you can pick and choose from. The idea is to have a travel policy, rather than touring around vulnerable to financial disasters. Insurance is mandatory while you rent a car as well.

The author of this article is a constant blogger, and writes about Travel and Travel related articles for Travoline - a travel information portal.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Yuvaraj_Rajendran

Read More

Travel To Canada

Majestic landscape, spellbound beauty and a plethora of multilingual heterodoxy, is what you encounters when you travels to Canada. Canada is known for its geographical and culture diversity. Thanks to the cultures brought by the British, France and the USA. Canada as a travel destination entices you with mysticism. It has a presence in the Northern North America, Atlantic Ocean in the east and Pacific Ocean to its west. This gives, an ample opportunity to the traveler to make his choice and prepare his travel accordingly.

Canada has all the ingredients to quench your thirst for a memorable tourist destination. The scenic beauty will mesmerize you, when you are in the Western Canada. It has a beautiful countryside at your disposal. Northern Canada will take you to the arms of the bushes, tress and wildlife where you will be in a environment which is stress free as well as pollution free.

If one wants to do some adventure sports and you are travelling to Canada then you are in right place. Canada houses right from Skiing, diving, Sailing.

To view some of the spectacular Alpine Skiing scenery, then you must be heading to the British Colombia, the westernmost province of Canada. It has total 33 large ski resorts and not surprisingly it is the major draw for the province. Whale watching is one of the striking features of British Colombia since it is in the coastal area of the Pacific Ocean in the Vancouver Island. 

Alberta is another province of Canada which is the most sought after tourist destination right from the 20century. It has attraction such as National Parks, historical site, urban arts and cultural facility.

All in all, Canada is a traveller's paradise. If you want to spend some quality time in peace, then canada will be the destination you are looking for. So escape, explore and discover Canada.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shouldlu_Roy

Read More

Travel Tips For Last Minute Vacations

Have you decided to take a spur of the moment vacation? Or did you wait too long to plan your trip out West for the annual family reunion? Either way, here's everything you need to know to plan that vacation swiftly without breaking the bank.

1. Shop Around - When it comes to last-minute planning, no wiser words have been spoken! Don't settle for the very first seemingly good deal you come across; sit down and spend an hour (or two) researching on various travel and airline websites to see who is offering the absolute best deals.

2. Sign Up for Alerts - Many travel websites (think Priceline or Hotwire) allow users to sign up for alerts. For example, if you need to purchase a flight to New York City, simply sign up for alerts you'll be emailed when fares dip below a certain price or an airline is offering a screamin' deal.

3. Call your Travel Agent - It may seem old school but booking your trip through a travel agent is a tried-and-true last-minute vacation method that works more often than not. Why? Online travel booking through the very sites you're probably using have put the pinch on travel agents. Many of them have several connections within the travel industry that they can utilize to pass on serious savings to you. In addition, you may find a few willing to offer you a great deal in hopes that you'll use them for your future travel needs.

4. Bundle It! - If you happen to be planning a trip where you'll need airfare plus a rental, you may have the opportunity to save even more. Many online travel sites offer cheaper rates if you're willing to bundle airfare and hotel or hotel and rental car.

5. Fly to the Less Popular - Airport, that is. If you happen to be flying to a metropolitan area, save some dough by flying into a smaller, less popular airport. For instance, New York City has three different major airports to choose from: JFK, LaGuardia and Newark in New Jersey.

6. Think Outside of the Box - Instead of paying for the most conventional travel methods and modes, are there ways to save by thinking outside of the box. Instead of paying $100+ a night for a mediocre hotel room, could you save a little (or even spend slightly more) for a much bigger, nicer rental condo? Instead of renting a car, are you in an area that offers mass transit? Be a little creative and you just might find you can save even more on your dream vacation.

7. Be Flexible - Most importantly, when it comes to last minute vacations remember that being flexible is going to allow you to save you the most. You may find that going on a Caribbean cruise is actually cheaper than staying at an ocean-front resort. Or that simply flying out two weeks later saves you hundreds of dollars. Moral of the story: be flexible!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Micah_Waters

Read More

Travel Tips Before you Travel To a Foreign Country

There are many things that you can do to pre-prepare yourself and your family for travel. By being as prepared as you can be, you are setting yourself up for a great getaway that will minimize any unpleasant circumstances that sometimes arise with travel.
In order to have the best vacation possible, I'm going to share with you the must know tricks and travel tips before you travel.

The very first thing you must do is RESEARCH. You want to learn as much as you possibly can about your destination prior to arrival. Yes, this is going to require some time and effort on your part but it is going to be more than worth it. This is the only way to truly understand what it is you want from your vacation and what you want to do on your vacation.

Here are some things that you should always know about your destination.

Weather - You need to know what you should be packing and planning for.
Paperwork and Documentation - Know what is needed to travel to your particular destination.
Know if there are any diseases common to the area you will be traveling to - this way you are able to take preventative measures.

Costs of local items - You want to be able to properly plan your budget; remember to include taxes and tipping.

Holidays and festivals - check to see when these occur for your destination as you may find limited services on those days.

The best holidays are the ones we are most prepared for. Do yourself a favour; make it a habit to always know as much as you can about your destination before you travel. It'll make all the difference in the world!

What are some other things that you can do to prepare yourself? Use these travel tips before you travel.
1. Make 2 photocopies of your passport. Take one and put it in a safe place or leave it with a friend. Take the other one with you and keep it in a separate place from your passport, this way should your passport become lost or stolen, you can use the copy to exit the country and it will also facilitate the replacement process.

2. Email yourself important information such as: airline numbers and flight information, credit card numbers, passport and driver's licence numbers and anything else that may be of importance to you. This way if anything is lost or stolen, you are just and internet connection away.

3. Know your banking information. For your credit card, make sure that the valid dates will remain valid while you're traveling, know your available spending amount and don't forget to leave some room on it for emergencies. Check your ATM and debit cards' daily and total limits.

4. Learn some local phrases. If you are traveling to a country with a foreign language, it's always nice to know some of the local phrases. Knowing the "polite words" and just a few local phrases will be a huge help. You will find that natives really appreciate this and will tend to be more receptive to your questions. Maybe you'll even make a new friend while you're at it!

5. Be aware of the voltage that's used for the country you're traveling to. If you are taking anything that requires an outlet; cell phone, computer, video camera, etc. make sure to purchase plug adapters. For things such as hairdryers, curling irons, electric razors, etc to purchase an actual voltage converter unless your appliance has multiple voltage currencies.

When traveling to a foreign country it's always best to be as prepared as you can be. Do as much research as you possibly can, remember these travel tips before you travel and your trip abroad is sure to be a success.

Here's your final checklist: Passport, tickets, car rental and hotel reservation receipts/agreements, credit cards, medications or prescriptions, if required, addresses, password and any other important information that you may need. Don't forget the most important thing: your adventurous travel mind, see and learn as much as you can and have the time of your life!

Tropical Beach Destinations (http://www.tropicalbeachdestinations.com) specializes in giving you an exhilarating tropical vacation for travel destinations around the world. We are experienced travelers who have lived across the globe and our dream is to provide you with everything you need in order to have the ultimate dream vacation. Learn how to travel with Sarah and Jason, your tropical adventure couple!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_W

Read More

Canary Islands Villas Are Affordable

The Canary islands are an excellent choice if you would like to enjoy a wonderful beach vacation with your family, but don't want to spend an exorbitant amount of money just to have some fun while you're on vacation. Due to the economy, more and more people are hoping to save money by taking economical vacations as opposed to spending money on the lavish trips that they might have been accustomed to taking.

Don't think that just because you are working within the confines of a fixed budget that you won't be able to have much fun on vacation; instead, look into how villa rentals might be an excellent choice in lodging that will allow you to save some money. Contrary to what you might think, you can actually find a number of appealing Canary Islands villas that will suit your needs and also fall well within your ideal price range.

If you want to find the best deals on villas to use while you are on vacation, the Internet is a great place to start your search. You will soon realize that a large number of websites advertise for these sorts of villas; it's up to you to determine which ones are actually legitimate, and which ones might not be a good idea for your to use. You should never give away your personal information or bank account access if you aren't completely sure if they are, in fact, a legitimate company. You will be quite upset if you lose a substantial amount of money just because you were trying to save a few dollars by dealing with a company that is not honest.

To avoid getting ripped off on-line, do some thorough research on the companies you would like to use before giving them any money or signing a contract to lease a property. Read some of the customer reviews that they should have posted on their website; if a company has lots of satisfied customers, its likely that you will also be happy with the services you receive from them. Additionally, you should make sure the on-line rental company puts you in direct contact with the property management or owners of the villa that you would like to rent.

That way, if something goes wrong while you are staying in the rental property, you'll know exactly who to call if you need help or assistance with a problem in the building.

Staying in a villa while you're on vacation can cut costs because you will not have to pay the additional money it would take for your entire family to constantly eat out at restaurants. It can be quite expensive to eat quality food in restaurants the entire time you're away, but if you opt for fast food, you will not be eating a very healthy diet. As an alternative you should try cooking some of your own meals at home as a family.

Cooking together can serve as a bonding experience; additionally, you can appreciate the fact that you are eating the exact food that you like. You can swing by a grocery store on your way to the villa to make sure that all your favorite snack foods are immediately close at hand.

The Canary Islands are a great choice for budget-conscious travelers because the cost of living in these islands is quite low when compared to other popular vacation destinations. You will definitely save lots of money by visiting this location because you won't have to spend as much as it would require for you to visit other European destinations. Its quite cheap to get around the island as well; both buses and taxicabs are available at very reasonable rates.

For more information on Villas in Canary Islands, visit Traveleden.com for a wide range of self-catering Villas to book direct with owners and hints and tips on finding the most suitable self catering holiday accommodation.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_J_Jacob

Read More

Insider Guide For Renting Island Villas

Island villas continue to gain popularity, not just for family vacations but also for independent travelers. An island villa will always provide more space compared to a hotel or other types of accommodation. If you are planning to make fantasy a reality, then opting for an island villa will give you a chance to discover what it really feels like to live in a beachfront villa.

There are certain things which should be kept in mind when you are planning to rent an island villa, and these will serve as a guide for selecting the right villa. The following are the points which should be considered:

What will you gain?
Basically you will have more space and privacy when you opt for a villa rather than a hotel, and you will keep more of your money in your pocket. Even in villas you have access to a kitchen and washer/dryer. If you choose a larger villa then you may also be able to enjoy many sporting activities like golf, tennis, water sports, as well as various excursions.

What will you give up?
Not all villas are the same because they don't all provide the same amenities. In a villa to suit a single family you may lose maid service, room service, an in house restaurant and concierge service, and you might even have to bring your own towels and linen. Additional items like baby equipment, bikes and beach chairs may have to be rented independently. Villas are usually stricter about check in dates than hotels or other accommodations.

How long can you stay?
Some seasonal island villas have rigid rental schedules, normally Saturday to Saturday, while others have a seven nights' minimum stay. Some villas are available for only one or two nights. The duration of stay depends on the destination.

When not to rent
There are a number of villas available for short term rentals, perhaps for only three nights. However for a stay of a day or two it may be better to stay in a hotel. You should keep in mind that if your plans are disrupted then cancelling a hotel booking will be easier than a rental agreement which is a contract between you and the owner of the villa. If you are looking for room service, on site restaurant, bars, and housekeeping then perhaps you should not go for a vacation rental.

Weddings
If you are planning to get married far away from home, then going for an island villa would be a good choice as it is a much cheaper option than paying a huge amount for a large block of hotel rooms. Another benefit is that you can use this as a romantic honeymoon spot when your guests have left.

Families and groups
It is a very economical and affordable option for families and large groups who would like to stay together at a single place. The best advantage of an island villa is that you can maintain your privacy and simultaneously enjoy your family togetherness. In villas you can also enjoy flexibility of mealtimes.

If you are traveling to Bali for a holiday and looking for Bali holiday villas, click here to find best Bali Island Villa.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Manisha_Kumar

Read More

Travel in the US

New York Vacation Rentals
One of the best places to go for vacation with the whole family is New York's Niagara Falls area. Considered one of the most beautiful wonders of the world, Niagara Falls separates Ontario, Canada and New York. New York vacation rentals are plentiful in the area. Popular with vacationers, some of these cabins are located in campgrounds where chalets, RVs (recreational vehicles) and Park Models may also be rented. Ideal for families, these are the best choices for any type of vacation.

These New York vacation rentals and camps offer amenities like pools, playgrounds, and game rooms. They also organize activities like visits to nearby Niagara Falls. So for families, especially those who are traveling in RVs, and those who plan to camp out in tents, head out to a campground can make the most out of New York vacation rentals and campsites.

Colorado Cabin Rentals
The cabins in Colorado, especially those near Estes Park, are some of the most popular summer destinations. It is also home for the Rocky Mountain National Park. Families can rent cabins and enjoy various summer activities together. These campgrounds welcome families with tents, Park Models or RVs. Campers can take part in various activities designed not only for children but for the whole family. These campgrounds have amenities like playgrounds, game rooms, and souvenir shops,. Some sites even have free Wi-Fi access. Families who rent cabins in Colorado afford themselves the opportunity to enjoy various special amenities like heated swimming pools and hiking trails as well as enjoy visits to the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park.

Rocky Mountains' splendid mountain views, wildlife, rock climbing routes, the Trail Ridge Road, Bear Lake Road, and Fall River Road are huge tourist favorites. Those who rent cabins in Colorado will find these attractions adventurous and unforgettable.

Dairy Land Family Vacations
Wisconsin vacation rentals abound in Sturgeon Bay. A more practical (and adventurous) choice would be to stay in a campground. Sturgeon Bay, known as the "friendliest small town in Wisconsin," is home to several RV and tent campgrounds. Some of these campgrounds are in Door County, a favorite summer destination especially in the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day. It has 5 of Wisconsin's state parks, lighthouses dating back to the 1800's, and a cherry orchard that's over 2,000 acres wide.

For those families who choose to park their RVs or pitch their tents in selected campgrounds, they will enjoy numerous indoor and outdoor activities. There are also campgrounds that rent out fully-furnished cabins for those who love camp life but do not have tents or RVs. Choose only the best when you stay in a cabin like these Wisconsin vacation rentals.

Beautiful Vacations in the Buckeye State
Ohio campgrounds located in Aurora are also attractive vacation choices. These campgrounds have game rooms, playgrounds, and pools. Campers can play baseball or practice their volleyball and basketball abilities in the campgrounds. When there are no activities, campers can either go fishing or relax in the cool afternoon breeze.

These Ohio campgrounds give campers a glimpse of the Amish life as well. Ohio's Amish Country is composed of 8 counties namely, Holmes, Wayne, Tuscarawas, Stark, Coshocton, Knox, Ashland and Richland. Each county boasts of its own activities and attractions. There are museums, historic districts, county fairs, and specialty shops that catch the fancy of any visitor. The Amish Country also offers guided tours. Any family who spends their vacation in these Ohio campgrounds is assured of a good time and memorable fun.

Bring Your Family Closer Together this Vacation
To sum it all up: make planning easier by relishing in the accommodation offered by vacation rentals around the country; especially since they are complete with all the modern amenities and features of home. If these vacation homes do not fit into your family's budget, rest assured that tent camping and RV campgrounds offer some of the best facilities, activities, and locations available. Campgrounds offer more activities that will engage children while parents can rest and relax.

With over 8 years of experience marketing campgrounds and RV resorts online for MorePro Marketing, Cory Howell has a unique understanding of the camping industry. Cory's insider perspective provides campers with insightful information on great camping accommodation like the Wisconsin vacation rentals mentioned above.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cory_Campjel

Read More