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Monday, May 7. 2007
Travel isn't all about beauty, culture, grand tours and vacations, you'll also have to spend like hell. But if you're clever and cheap, you can get some travelling perks and afford some good old learning experience. Most of our problems rise from how we envision ourselves as tourists. We always think of Italy, France and other parts of Europe when we can explore several other continents. The world is like the Sahara desert: vast, huge and unlimited. You don't have to flock an already congested spot, you can be Napoleon and explore what others failed to see.
Sunday, May 6. 2007
 Is there a right time and place for travel? Go when others won't. There's no sense of flocking along with other tourists during peak season. Plus, it can be more expensive and inconvenient. Even celebrities whose life is scrutinized by the public eye enjoy privacy snd solitude every once in a while. So give yourself a treat! Make sure that you have the best view and spot wherever you'll go. If you really want to unravel the mystery of your voyage, stay at places where you'll get involved with the crowd. Hotels can be suffocatingly posh and gaudy.
Saturday, May 5. 2007
How do I get away with perks? I don't need to bribe and bet my money on it, all I need is to ask. There's no reason to be intimidated by travel providers. Ask them if you can get a better fare or rate because they are willing to advise you about rebates. I even remember how I got the whole window seat just by myself. I asked the gate keeper if he can arrange a comfortable seat and he obliged with a smile. You see, they're not as impatient and as mean as we think they are. I even get freebies, special breakfast meals, elite status and upgrades in my flight and stay. Be an inquisitive traveller and you'll get your way to a fantastic getaway.
Saturday, April 28. 2007
 You can never claim that you have traveled the entire Spanish land unless you have been into El Rastro that is Madrid's infamous flea market. Here, you can find anything your hands wanna hold —from Spanish churros to Spanish antiques and other things long forlorn. The said busy market starts at Plaza de Cascorro to Ribera de Curtidores. If you're taking a cab, these are the important names you have to remember. Or, simply say “el rastro, por favor senior”.
Friday, April 27. 2007
If you're a foreign visitor, it's always best take a cab. You can also take the train since the place is near the subway. Or, you can ride a bus and tell the driver to drop you at Puerta de Toledo. Once you are in El Rastro, you will suddenly forget your spouse's reminder of buying him/her coffee. The place is an enchanting market that displays a feast of many awesome unique must-buys.
Thursday, April 26. 2007
If you're planning to visit El Rastro, it usually opens at 10 in the morning up to 7 or 8 in the evening. It sure is a day-long shopping moment. So, if I were you I would bring my spouse with me before he/she starts nagging again for forgetting the reminder. It's a perfect place for a bargain if you're on a tight budget. Lastly, it's simply the place to be if you want to explore Spanish culture.
Friday, March 23. 2007
Aside from the exquisite scenery of your desired vacation spot, fine dining is one of the things that you would like to experience on your travel. It goes without saying that quality and prompt service from the restaurant's staff as well as the bartenders will make your stay at a certain establishment so much the better. However, not everyone knows that there are a couple of things that must be done so that he can enjoy the best quality service from staff of a restaurant or bar.
Once at the bar, you are advised to immediately tip the tender. In this way, he will prioritize you and your comapnion. Based on my experience, it seems that the tip helps the bartender remember what my fave drink is.
At the restaurant, you are advised to look at the dishes served in other tables. Doing so will help you decide what food to order. When it comes to food allergies, you have to ask the waiters what the ingredients of a certain dish is. The waiters would be more than willing to answer your queries since they care for their customers' well-being. Another thing, you can ask the waiter if they can cook a certain dish in the manner that you want. Again, the waiters will try to indulge you. This is because it would be better that they meet their customers' standards, rather than have the food sent back to the kitchen.
Friday, March 16. 2007
A summer holiday, regardless of the destination, is always a perfect time to relax and have fun with your family. You need to plan well your trip, though. Otherwise, you'll end up stressed out by a series of complications during the entire vacation. What a waste of money it would be by then!
To enjoy your summer holiday with your family, here are some useful reminders. First, check all the stuff you need and pack them right. Of course, you need not take everything with you. Second, since you're going to spend most of your time under the sun, bring hats, eyeglasses, and sunblock to protect yourself. Sun protection is important in order to avoid diseases triggered by the summer heat. Third, bring your camera. This is very obvious, yet many people still forget to bring the cam along with them. Fourth, be prepared for emergencies. Bring along with you some handy tools as well as medicine kits. Well, it pays to be always ready. Fifth and last, don't blow your budget. Summer is about fun, but it doesn't mean that you have to spend all your money and end up with nothing on your way home. Enjoying is not about how much you spend, but rather, it is how well you spend time with your family.
Saturday, March 3. 2007
One hassle of traveling is not only having to pack your voluminous luggage, or finding low-cost hotel reservations, but the jet lag that comes with every travel. I hate having jet lags! Not only do I feel haggard and stressed the next couple of days, I also don't get to enjoy my trip! Even though first-class hotels and airlines offer various options to combat jet lag, there are ways on how you can sidestep this uncomfortable travel trouble yourself.
Jet lags are suffered by travellers who fly over different time zones. A person under jet lag would experience dehydration, fatigue, and disorientation. Jet lags also make you prone to flu and colds. These are the consequences of body clock disturbances brought by travelling across many time zones as pressure and altitude changes on takeoff and landing disorganize our body system.
To prevent jet lags, you should avoid drinking alcohol. This might cause you not to get an invigorating rest. Instead of alcohol, you should increase your water intake. Have a big bottle to take with you in every flight so you wouldn't have to ask the stewardess repeatedly for water. Take walks around the plane and do some stretch exercises so you wouldn't have feet and legs discomfort. It wouldn't only help your blood to circulate, but would aid the body to get attuned with the destination's climate. You could also adjust your clock following your destination's time and abide by that when trying to get some sleep.
Friday, February 23. 2007
Most parents prefer to travel along with their kids. It's much convenient for mom or dad since it's a worry and hassle-free action. However, there may be instances when your kids need to travel alone, but you're so worried with the thought of sending them on a plane all by themselves. Well, worry no more, since the following tips may help you with such dilemma.
What you need to do first is to inquire on your Airline regarding its policies on children travelling alone and ask what paperworks or identification you need to present. Aside from that, also inquire about the minimum age restriction for children traveling alone. After that, you would now be able to decide which Airline you wish to book for a nonstop flight. Watch out for last day flights because it will only cause problems if your child will have to go on an overnight stay. It is also a must to ask questions regarding the safety of your child during and after the flight.
In addition, it is also important to brief and prepare your child on the details of his/her flight. It is advisable to do role-playing acts regarding the flight or you could read him/her books about traveling themes. Instruct them to listen to the Airline's attendants and immediately ask for their assistance if there will be problems.
Thursday, February 22. 2007
Tired of the usual "beach-breathtaking view-quiet-relaxing" yet boring vacation? Have you not tried the spectacular casino experience in Las Vegas while at the same time, experiencing superb relaxation in one of LV's excellent resort and casino hotel accommodations? If not, then the perfect spot is the "Caesar's Palace" hotel in Las Vegas NV.
Located at the center of Las Vegas, Caesars welcomes you to a world of lavish and grand elegance of its surrounding that no other hotel can ever be. Opened since 1966, Caesar is world known for its magnificent fountains, striking gabled pediments and Corinthian columns. The hotel features world class amenities such as reliable 24 Hour Room Service, Concierge Services, high speed Internet connection, etc. On the other hand, the hotel offers stately facilities like the Casino, meeting offices, class restaurants, pool, jacuzzi, tennis court, and a lot more. Its spacious and exquisitely designed suites are suited to provide splendid comfort and relaxation after a tiring day in the casinos.
Caesar's Palace serves sumptuous variety of cuisines that will surely entice you-from Chinese to Japanese authentic cuisines to French and Italian lavish buffets. As for the hotel rates, check-in and check-out rates are in compliance to its reservation policies. (Check-In: 1500; Check-Out: 1100). So if you're up for a kingly and exciting vacation in Vegas, you now know where to find it.
Sunday, February 18. 2007
Visiting a foreign place is truly an exciting experience. You get to see various things and places that cannot be found at your place. Not to mention the sumptuous food that you can get a hold on. However, there are definitely a few things that you have to remember when dining in fancy foreign restaurants.
Usually, restaurants located in tourist spots do not allow reservations. But then again, there are exceptions. Reservations will be valued during dinner shows. Also, the first-class restaurants favor reservations from their patrons. Thus, it will be a good idea for you to call the establishment as soon as you wish to visit their place.
Calling a restaurant requires a couple of things to be asked. First is to know what dress code type is followed by the restaurant. Second is to know the restaurant's price range. Asking for such will ensure that you won't lack cash when the time comes for you to foot the bill. Third is to ask what type of dishes they serve. Make sure to ask them about alternative foods to delicacies that you are allergic to. Last is to ask the time of day that the restaurant is less crowded. In this way, you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere if you wish.
Sunday, February 4. 2007
Backpacking trips are very popular for both adults and teens alike. The rich Indian culture promises would-be backpackers an experience they'd never forget. With its rugged mountain terrain, exotic urban communities, and fresh rural areas, India is a backpacker's unique paradise.
You'd need to have a plan first, you know, before going out and traveling with your backpack in India or any part of the world worth visiting, for that matter. First thing would be your plane tickets, hotel reservations, and either your crew or your companions, whichever you want to call them. Then, having your mobile phone ready, apart from the other stuff that is usually needed for such a trip, handy is a wise thing to do.
You should also consider bringing with you a laptop with a fast internet connection or one with wi-fi internet connectivity. These are important tools for such a backpacking trip - you need not be stranded anywhere without some form of communication to the outside world, you know. I guess you know how that feels in case you've read Gulliver's Travels.
Monday, January 29. 2007
If you are a budget traveler in Paris and looking for a hotel that is not very expensive, the Cervantes Hotel is definitely for you. It is a three-star quality discount hotel which does not charge that much for a night's stay. The hotel offers a relaxing and peaceful stay right in the heart of Paris.
This hotel is also a perfect choice for a budget romantic honeymoon. This is so because Paris is such a romantic city. Beautiful and quiet gardens adorn the hotel's landscape. These provide a soothing atmosphere during hot summer holidays. The hotel's classic edifice implies sophistication and comfort which are reflective of the French style of living.
The hotel accommodation is limited so make sure that you book this hotel beforehand. It is also advisable that you make advanced confirmation because of the ever-changing availability. Your stay at this hotel will be truly memorable because you have easy access to the city's sights and sounds. Opera houses, monuments, museums, bars, and restaurants abound near the hotel. In addition, you get to enjoy unlimited internet connection and other modern amenities that the hotel provides.
Friday, January 26. 2007
I was looking for a new and exciting place to go to in my next European vacation when I suddenly thought of the Casa Real Alcazar. This place is just to die for. If you are interested in a very exquisite luxury hotel, then, the Casa Real Alcazar is the best place for your Spanish holiday.
Some of the best rooms in this hotel overlook Spain's historical sceneries like the King of Spain's garden. Of course, the fine interiors of the hotel are not to be missed. The mattresses and the pillows of the hotel rooms are just too precious. All of them are personally embroidered and designed by Spain's artists. So, I bet you would want to sleep on them all day long. The tiles of the floor are just so unbelievable and unique. They have these sun-bleached tiles that are so amazing. You might not want to step on them because they are just too adorable for words. I tell you, when you're staying in this grand hotel, it is just like staying in the king's castle itself.
The Casa Real Alcazar in Seville city in Spain may be a little costly, but you are guaranteed five-star treatment in a five-star hotel. Everything that you need is in this beautiful and grandiose hotel. Of course, you should not miss out on Seville's other lovely sceneries. Just make sure that you still have the time to go out and explore Spain. You might get too comfortable in Casa Real Alcazar.
Saturday, January 20. 2007
 If Michael Jackson has the Neverland Park, South Korea has the Everland Park. I have been to the Everland Park, as part of my tour guide's treat for my South Korean tour group. It was winter time then, and the wind was freezing cold. Although I froze my butt off that day, I enjoyed every minute that I spent inside the Everland Park. I never thought that it would be as fantastic as Disneyland.
The Everland Park is only an hour-drive away from the city of Seoul. If you want to go to Everland, there are a lot of budget accommodation hotels around the Everland area. You have to try this park out, if you are to go to South Korea. It has everything that you would expect from a wonderful winter wonderland. The gift shops are just heavenly. They have everything in there!
The food court food is just amazing. I remember eating the Dippin' Dots ice cream when I was already half-frozen, myself. The rides, of course, were all exciting and unique! You must see the "Ligers" in the park's animal collection. I think the Liger is a mix of a lion and a tiger. There are air lifts in the other part of the park, to take you down to where the animals are. Basically, this is one park that I cannot forget.
Thursday, January 18. 2007
I have been to Seoul, Korea, and I must say that it has the most incredible places to visit and see. It has the most wonderful ancient and historical palaces. It has the cleanest streets and of course, it has the coldest weather. I went there on a winter season and the icy snow fell from the clouds like crazy. But, it was just a magical and tranquil state to be in. Seoul is one of those cities that you can not get enough of.
Since Seoul is on the other side of the globe, you have to be aware of the major differences that it has from the United States or Europe. If you're traveling to Seoul, you have to make sure of the money value first. Seoul uses the "won" value. It has values of 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000. The banks in Seoul are open from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, every Mondays to Fridays only. Seoul also adds 10% of value added taxes in almost all of its goods and products.
If you're eating in a fancy restaurant or if you're staying in their Korean luxury hotels, you better not tip the waiters or the bellboys. There are service charges in all of the services that they offer. Koreans think that tipping is inappropriate and degrading. So, you better take note of that. The Korean shopping malls open at an early hour, from 8:30 in the morning to 6 in the evening. So, if it's your first time to go to Seoul, Korea, you better know the how-to's and what-not's.
Saturday, January 13. 2007
 I was so worked up to finally set foot in Disneyland. Then, the next thing you know, we were not going to Disneyland anymore. I was so devastated because I was dying to see Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck. My mom had another plan for us though. We all packed ourselves inside our cool Mitsubishi Challenger and had a one and a half drive to Six Flags in Valencia.
I instantly forgot about Disneyland when we got to Six Flags Magic Mountain. The rides were so awesome. I enjoyed everything. I really enjoyed the gigantic roller coaster in Magic Mountain. Basically, everything in Six Flags was a blast. If you want to rest for awhile, there are lovely gardens scattered all over the park. I would not want to spoil the surprise if I tell you the best rides. You'll just have to visit this Looney Tunes amusement park by yourself, to find out.
Six Flags Magic Mountain is open everyday in the summer. It is unfortunately closed during the school year, but, it opens on holidays. You do not need reservations to go there. By the time you get to Six Flags, you can immediately buy your tickets and enter the fun world of Six Flags.
Thursday, January 11. 2007
I have been to Seoul, Korea, and I must say that it has the most incredible places to visit and see. It has the most wonderful ancient and historical palaces. It has the cleanest streets and of course, it has the coldest weather. I went there on a winter season and the icy snow fell from the clouds like crazy. But, it was just a magical and tranquil state to be in. Seoul is one of those cities that you can not get enough of.
Since Seoul is on the other side of the globe, you have to be aware of the major differences that it has from the United States or Europe. If you're traveling to Seoul, you have to make sure of the money value first. Seoul uses the "won" value. It has values of 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000. The banks in Seoul are open from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, every Mondays to Fridays only. Seoul also adds 10% of value added taxes in almost all of its goods and products.
If you're eating in a fancy restaurant or if you're staying in their Korean luxury hotels, you better not tip the waiters or the bellboys. There are service charges in all of the services that they offer. Koreans think that tipping is inappropriate and degrading. So, you better take note of that. The Korean shopping malls open at an early hour, from 8:30 in the morning to 6 in the evening. So, if it's your first time to go to Seoul, Korea, you better know the how-to's and what-not's.
Monday, January 1. 2007
If you want a different and unique holiday experience, you have got to try out Amsterdam's houseboats. I have been wishing to stay in one for the longest time. When I finally boarded into one, I felt so excited. I was actually on a real boat! It felt so different living in one, too. You'd think that you'll get dizzy and nauseous staying on a boat because it might be moving with the waves the whole time.
But, the boats are perfectly stable. It's just like being inside a normal house. Only that if you look outside, you'd see the wonderful view of the water. I am somewhat claustrophobic. So then, I thought that living on a boat may seem like a pretty bad idea.
Yet, the skyline of the boats made the boat interiors seem spacious and comfortable. The space inside the boat is not so bad, too. It's complete with everything you need. There's a great kitchen, a small dining area, a living room, a nice bathroom, and a cozy bedroom. So, there's nothing else to complain about, really. If you're going around Europe's wonderful cities, make sure that you stop by Amsterdam. Rent a fabulous houseboat and experience Amsterdam's wonderful lifestyle. At least you'll get to try out Amsterdam's "coffee shops", if you know what I mean.
Sunday, December 24. 2006
 I always enjoy going on road trips. I think that it's one of the safest ways to go around and travel to places. I sometimes feel queasy onboard cruises and I feel uncomfortable on planes. Road trips are also enjoyable because you get to spend a lot of quality time with the people you're with. Road trips take a lot of practical time management. Of course, you can't just hop in your reliable cars and suddenly go on a road trip. This kind of travel trip also takes a lot of careful planning and preparation.
So, what are the essentials of a fantastic road trip? The first thing that comes to mind is the food. What should you bring? You have to bring healthy foods and just a little bit junk food. That way, you won't be strung-out when you get to your destination because of too much junk food. The most important thing is water. You should never get dehydrated on the road. You should also have a map of the route that you will be taking. Another thing is, you should have an alternative route plan if your first route doesn't work out. You should never stop at rest places that are too isolated and dark. Stop at well-lit gasoline stations and places where many people stop at. Also, make a plan whose turn it is to drive. You can never be sure about the driver unexpectedly falling asleep, can you? So, enjoy your road trip and take some pictures along!
Friday, December 22. 2006
 I admit that traveling around with a baby can be very burdensome. Instead of just sleeping through the flight or through the journey, you have to stay awake and tend for the baby's needs. But, on the other hand, it's also very nice to know that you're going on a holiday trip with your family. So, how would you handle your baby during your travel without having that unwanted stressful feeling?
The first thing that you should remember is to keep things organized and simple, from their clothes to their needs. On the road, babies sleep well. Maybe it's the rocking, the road bumps, or the constant movement that keeps them sound asleep, so, you just have to bring a portable bed gear so they would feel comfortable and snuggly all the time. Don't forget their favorite blankets so they wouldn't feel unfamiliar and needy. Dress your babies in hassle-free clothing. Don't dress them with too much ruffles or buttons. Both you and the baby would have a hard time with those kinds of clothes. Always remember to bring a lot of extra diapers. You'll never know when your babies might go. Also, never forget to bring at least 2 or more small toys for your babies to play with. When they wake up from a long sleep, they would want to play with something. Lastly, always bring a variety of baby food. You don't want your babies getting hungry while on the road or the plane, don't you? So, just bring these necessary items and you won't feel any bit of hassle on your much-awaited holiday trip.
Thursday, December 21. 2006
 Everyone knows that traveling requires a lot of energy, time, and money. We cannot afford to get sick during our much-awaited holiday now, do we? Traveling is fun. But, we need to remember that we will also be grazing unfamiliar grounds. We can't be too sure about the environment and the basic necessities in that area. The journey is as important as the destination, don't you think? So, what are the basic things to remember while traveling to keep us energized?
The first and most important thing is to carry around at least two bottles of mineral water with you. Anywhere and everywhere you go, you must have your average or extra dose of water. Regular water intake would keep you hydrated and refreshed. So, you wouldn't feel parched and weak at times. It also neutralizes daily digestion. You should also take a "bite relief" spray or lotion anywhere. You wouldn't know what foreign territories have. You should always protect your skin from foreign insect bites. Wet wipes are also a must-have. You cannot go without them. Sure, plain tissue is also very handy. But, wet wipes are good to go for anything. Another thing is, bring a deodorizer. If you don't want to stink up your travel, deodorize. If you hate smelling other people's stinkers, then set a good example and stay clean. So, when you get to your dream destination, you'll still be fresh and energized. It would feel a lot better, believe me.
Monday, December 11. 2006
 Advance reservations, such as hotel booking and ticket reservation, should be in the priority list of your travel preparation. Other details, such as car rentals and travel itinerary can be done on a later time. If you are on a business trip, do not forget your laptop WiFi connection. Airports and terminals can be ideal places to check on your online investments using your laptop. It is wise to always be updated on the market trend.
Rewarding travel experience, either for the purpose of business or pleasure, can be best accomplished if you are well prepared. Many travelers are delayed and frustrated just because they have not anticipated many contingencies of travel. You should avoid overloading your bags with many unnecessary items. They will be just added burdens and might cause significant delays. Pack only the things that are necessary such as clothes, toiletries, travel documents, and gadgets. However, limit the number of clothes you will bring. Never bring alcoholic beverages, they will just be confiscated.
When traveling, avoid bringing cash. Use an internationally accepted credit card when applicable. Credit cards are more convenient than cash.
Monday, December 4. 2006
 I am the master of haggling. Well, not quite really. A few years back, I learned to haggle for a lower price when I was totally out of budget during a vacation in Boracay Island, Philippines.
I really wasn't expecting to lose money until I found cool souvenir gifts to give my friends at home. Through years of traveling, I found out that foreigners are seen as someone with lots of money to spend. This has never been a problem until I found myself over spending on gifts. What I did was ask the owner of a local restaurant if he could show me a house or a room that I could get for a small amount of money.
He directed me to a house and introduced me to the owner. The house was not really open for public as it had no advertisements outside. Secretly though, they accommodate exclusive guests that are recommended by their friends. Without being rude, I immediately asked the price. The price was not as high as the price of the room in my hotel but was not low as I expected. So I haggled and haggled, telling them about my situation.
In the end, I won and got a room for a third less than my budget. The great thing was, I met several local people and made friends with them. The owner of the house also assured me that the next time I visit Boracay, I'll have a room saved up for me.
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Holiday Travel Comments
Sun, 22.10.2006 12:36
We're planning to go to Walt Disney Florida but I'll have to save for several months.
Sun, 22.10.2006 12:35
I just love the rides. It's amazing. You should save for this trip!
Fri, 20.10.2006 09:47
There is a collection of sunglasses that has a variety of colors, vibrant designs, fashionable, elegant, and stylish. [...]
Fri, 20.10.2006 09:44
Grip is a friendly song ripper that allows you to convert it to aif, wav, flac, ogg, aac, mp4, mp3, and other formats. [...]
Fri, 20.10.2006 09:43
The 6-in-1 multi-tool has two sets that include a wood saw, bottle or can opener, needle-nose pliers, point knife, wire [...]
Fri, 20.10.2006 07:04
The last time I've been there, we visited the Buddhist temples. Bangkok is rich with spritual and cutural heritage at [...]
Fri, 20.10.2006 07:04
What's also lovely in Bangkok is their craft for bags and jewelry. They love bead works and colors.
Thu, 12.10.2006 09:16
It's a beautiful tower in New York City. Aside from being first-class, it has great architectural designs.
Thu, 12.10.2006 09:16
It must cost a fortune. I've heard you can spot Pierce Brosnan as a regular client.
Sun, 08.10.2006 17:50
What's the good thing about beer festival is that you'll get to taste it for free and you get to enjoy its variety. [...]
Sun, 08.10.2006 17:49
What's the good thing about beer festival is that you'll get to taste it for free and you get to enjoy its variety. [...]
Sun, 08.10.2006 14:44
My marriage is dull and boring. But I deeply love my wife. Because even if it's not a promise of heaven and adventure, [...]
Sun, 08.10.2006 09:04
Correct, just remember it. That's what we need.
Sun, 08.10.2006 09:03
Sometimes, we just lack the courage to face the changes that we slowly grow apart as partners. -Pio
Wed, 04.10.2006 11:20
The Inside Passage is a better choice for a cruise if you really want to discover what you haven't seen in Alaska. It's [...]