Sunday, November 28, 2010

Beautiful Thailand Beaches

Finding a perfect Thailand beach for your holiday is not something that should be left to the travel agents alone. With a few steps that you can do on your own could turn up your ideal paradise. If you do find that paradise please keep it to yourself!

Khao Lak is a wonderful Thailand beach. Just a short drive from the airport, this paradise offers a remote vacation area like no other. Thanks to the area being largely uninhabited, there is lush rain forest nearby along with a whole host of wildlife to be viewed. The water remains warm in the November through December months and the fishing and scuba diving is out of this world.

Phuket Thailand Beach is another great spot. Enjoy this resort November through March. There is more than enough to do. It is a bit more crowded than other beaches as this area thrives on the tourism dollars that it brings in. The scuba diving is top notch in this area and you will also find some of the warmest most clear water in the world. There are several nearby attractions to keep one busy for quite a few days.

Phi Phi Don Thailand beach is quite the turn around. Once a remote and nearly unknown place, this Thailand beach came to life when Hollywood came in and filmed a movie here. It is now considered to be one of the most popular beaches in the entire country and is frequented by many big names. This is a site that you will not want to miss, as the views are breathtaking and the water warm and inviting.

West Raily Thailand beach is one of the undiscovered diamonds in the rough. There is very little that is expensive here and one can stay at the “resort” for over a week and barely tap the budget. The sands are milky white and the water clear. Scuba diving is very popular here as well as the fishing. This location is only accessible by long tail boat so plan for a bit of a long ride. Read More..

Saturday, November 27, 2010

Asia Cruise Tours

Your interest in taking vacations on cruise lines will eventually lead you to the exotic continent of Asia. The dazzling culture and customs, glimmering white beaches, and fine cuisine will call to you like no other place in the world. See temples and statues from far back in history.

A cruise to Asia may just be the thing for you if you wish to explore exotic lands. There are many different cruise lines that offer trips to Asia, and all of them feature various itineraries to choose from.

One of the specific cruise lines that offer cruise travel to Asia is Crystal Cruises. They feature cruises that last anywhere from 11 to 16 days, and include many exciting adventures in Asia. They have four different excursion packages to choose from that include the Ancient Dynasties, Mysteries of Asia, Kingdoms of Jade & Gold, and the Exotic Asian Odyssey.

The Ancient Dynasties cruise lasts for two full weeks and includes trips to Honk Kong, Beijing, and Shanghai, China, Taipei, Taiwan, Kagoshima, Japan, as well as offering an “Adventures In Beijing” land tour once the cruise has completed.

The Mysteries of Asia excursion includes overnight stays in many cities including Nagasaki, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Osaka. Optional land tours are also available with this particular cruise package.

The Kingdoms of Jade & Gold will take the traveler from Hong Kong to Singapore with several stops included, and this adventure lasts for a total of eleven days.

The Exotic Asian Odyssey goes to Thailand, Myanmar and India. It lasts for an extensive sixteen days and many land excursions are also available.

While cruising through the open sea you can enjoy the many amenities offered aboard the cruise ship. The ship can accommodate 940 guests, and features a full service fitness facility, a Jacuzzi and two swimming pools, a Caesar’s Palace casino, a teak Promenade Deck, and a wide variety of live entertainment and exquisite cuisine.

On any given night, or during the day for that matter, the entertainment choices seem virtually endless. On board entertainment choices include Broadway style shows, classical musicians, jugglers, ventriloquists, comedians, live jazz in the piano bar, dancing in a choice of lounges, a movie theater which features new and recently released motion pictures, as well as offering lectures on such topics as golf, gambling, health & fitness and so much more.

Some cruises that travel to Asia also have stops in Hawaii, and these will allow you to enjoy island life for a day before setting off on the Pacific Ocean as you head towards Hong Kong. While many cruises that offer a stop over in Hong Kong have predetermined land excursions that all passengers must participate in, other cruises allow passengers to plan their own day trips while in Hong Kong. If your cruise affords you this worthwhile opportunity, one of the things that you must see is Victoria Peak. Victoria Peak is in essence a mountain that features magnificent restaurants, wonderful shopping, and the most gorgeous views in all of Hong Kong. The top of Victoria Peak can be reached by taking the Peak Tram, which will afford you the opportunity to see all that the Peak has to offer as you make your way to the top.

A cruise to Asia is in no doubt something that you will never forget, no matter what your destination will be. Read More..

What to bring when traveling to asia

Traveling to Asia can be fuss-free and enjoyable when you are prepared. Thinking through your logistics and learning a few local words can make your Asian vacation more rewarding.

For those planning to travel to Asia, you are in for a great visit. To ensure your trip is a memorable one, there are several things you will want to take care of prior to you leaving. If you are traveling to Pakistan, you need to be aware that there is a travel warning at this time due to threats of terrorist activity. You will need to register with the Embassy’s Consular section. Regardless of your destination in Asia, it is advised that you register with the US Embassy’s Consular. This is for your protection. If an emergency arises, no one can help you if they don’t know where you are.

You will to have a valid passport. Check to see if a visa will also be required for where you are going. Read the Consular information sheets for the areas you are traveling to prior to leaving. This will provide you with up to date information of anything taking place in that region that you should be aware of. If you do find yourself in any type of legal trouble, immediately contact the US Embassy for assistance.

Rules, regulations, and laws are different in Asia than in the United States. It is wise to familiarize yourself with the policies and procedures of that area. You don’t want to find yourself in legal trouble out of the country because you weren’t aware of how things are done there. Follow there rules set by all airports of not leaving your bags unattended or attending any type of package from someone you don’t know for any reason.

Basic rules that apply anywhere including wearing expensive jewelry and clothing and showing large amounts of cash. These are indicators that you have items of value. It can lead you to being the victim of a robbery or worse crime. To avoid being the victim of a scam don’t exchange currency with anyone except an authorized agent. Fully investigate prior to making purchases such as jewelry, art, and antiques.

Traveling to Asia can be a great experience. If you take the time to follow these basic tips, you will be more likely to enjoy your trip as well as return safely. By being prepared, you will be able to avoid surprises that will ruin your trip. By registering with the US Embassy, you will have an ally in the case something does take place. Having all these things in place will help you be able to focus on the beauty of Asia. Read More..

Asia Travel Tips

Planning to travel to Asia? This article will share with you not only some of the popular sites, but ideas on how to best cover the countries you wish to visit.

Traveling Asia is something that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. When you travel to Asia, there are so many things to see and do; make sure that you plan your trip in advance. However, remember to leave some free time in you itinerary, because when you travel Asia, you want to make sure that you have the flexibility for an occasional adventure.

As the largest continent on earth, Asia offers travelers a huge variety of places to visit, things to do and, cultures to see. For first time visitors who travel Asia, we recommend the following:

Island Nations-
Indonesia:
One of the most diverse destinations for travelers to Asia, the Indonesian archipelago can provide enough exciting destinations for a complete trip. Whether you are seeking relaxation, natural beauty, cultural diversity or all of the above, Indonesia will show you an exciting and wonderful Asian travel destination.

Philippines:
Comprised of over 7000 islands, the Philippines has become on of Asia’s forgotten travel destinations. Due to a recent history that includes martial law and economic corruption, the Philippines has lost much of its previous tourist activity to its more stable neighbors. Those who do visit will enjoy beautiful spots like the Boracay beaches and Lake Sebu.

Japan:
For decades, the island nation of Japan has been a favorite destination for travelers to Asia. From amazing Zen temples to kitschy reproductions of western monuments like the Eiffel Tower, Japan has something for every traveler who visits. The hardest thing is fitting it all in.

Southeast Asia
Thailand:
The Kingdom of Thailand is the most popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia drawing more visitors than its neighbors. With both mountainous regions and a beautiful coastline dotted with amazing islands Thailand is one a must see for those who travel to Asia. The city of Bangkok, the largest in Thailand is one of the most popular in all of Asia, as well.

Vietnam:
A quickly emerging destination among travelers to Asia, Vietnam is reshaping its image among world travel destinations. From the beaches along the coast, to its soaring inland mountains, Vietnam offers travelers to Asia with a sublime experience.

Mainland Asia-
China:
Too vast for words alone, China is rapidly emerging as the top destination for travelers to Asia. As China continues to modernize both economically and socially, it is becoming easier for those who travel to Asia to visit one of the largest and most populous countries in the world. If you travel to China, follow a loose itinerary and try to see as much as you can.

Korea:
South Korea is one of the most westernized of all Asian nations. Travelers to Korea can enjoy the modernity of the capital city, Seoul; or they can try visiting beautiful natural wonders like Songnisan National Park.

India:
Another of Asia’s largest and most heavily populated countries, India is a complex and diverse nation unlike any other you will experience when you travel throughout Asia. Visitors to India will be enchanted by its unpredictability and surprising cultural dramas that exist among its inhabitants. Read More..

Sunday, October 3, 2010

Travel To Bulgaria

River – Ferries can cross into Romania from Vidin to Calafat.Turkish and Roma are also spoken by considerable percentage of the population.Local Customs Like any other country Bulgaria has its own customs too and normal courtesies should be followed.Souvenirs from home country are appreciated if invited to home.Sofia International Airport EAD (SOF) is the biggest airport which is like six miles east of Sofia.Geographic Location It lies in Balkan Peninsula in Southern Europe bordering the Black Sea to the east, Serbia and the Republic of Macedonia to the west, Romania to the north, Greece and Turkey to the south.Bulgaria also borders Turkey, Romania, Ukraine, Russia, and Georgia along the sea.The largest and the capital city is Sofia.The country may be very small in area but it is rich in ancient culture, picturesque locales, down to earth and friendly people who provide the warmth and hospitality of old days.Other international airlines operating from Bulgaria include Bulgaria include Aeroflot, Air France, Alitalia, Austrian Airlines, British Airways, El Al Israel Airlines, KLM, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, MALEV Hungarian Airlines, Olympic Airlines and Swiss Air.George Rotunda * Alexander Nevsky Cathedral * National Ethnographic Museum Mountains * Village of Momchilovtsi * Pirin National Park * Rila Monastery Travel By Air – The national airline of Bulgaria is Bulgaria Air.Bulgaria is known as “Land of Roses” due to the largest production of roses here.The types of plugs used are Round pin attachment plug and "Schuko" plug and receptacle with side grounding contacts.Climate The climate of Bulgaria can be termed as temperate with hot and dry summers and cold and damp winters.

By Rail – Sofia is connected to Budapest, Belgrade, Bucharest, Thessaloniki, Paris, Vienna, Munich and Berlin through frequent services of trains.

Officially known as the Republic of Bulgaria or Bulgarian Republic, Bulgaria is a beautiful mountainous country lying in Balkan Peninsula in Southern Europe bordering the Black Sea to the east, Serbia and the Republic of Macedonia to the west, Romania to the north, Greece and Turkey to the south.Duty Free Items 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco 1 liter of spirits and 2 liter of wine; 50g of perfume and 100g of eau de toilette Gifts and personal use items.Population & Languages The population of Bulgaria is roughly 4 million and the official language being spoken is Bulgarian.Electricity The voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.Tipping up to 10 to 12 percent is customary for all services including restaurants, bars, clubs, taxis etc.With unique customs, spectacular crafts, colorful festivals, folklore and so on Bulgaria has it all to take the imagination of visitors by surprise and excitement.Dress should be conservative but can be casual.Summer temperatures average around 75°F (24°C) and winter temperatures average about 32°F (0°C).Here is Bulgaria, a nod of the head means ‘no’ and a shake of the head means ‘yes’.Attractions Sofia * St.Other international airport is Varna International Airport (VAR) located in the western outskirts of the city about five miles from Varna.Sea - The important international ports are Bourgas and Varna along the Black Sea.Although Bulgaria is known mostly for its sea resorts much of the actual country can be explored in great mountain regions, with many ski resorts a perfect destination for skiers.Prohibited Items Un-canned goods, meat or dairy products, Narcotics, pornography, firearms, ammunition, weapons, eggs, plants, endangered species, fireworks and alcoholic beverages that contain more than sixty per cent alcohol.The ideal time to visit Bulgaria is summer.Bulgaria also borders Turkey, Romania, Ukraine, Russia, and Georgia along the sea.Bulgaria is strategically located near Turkish Straits making it the control point of key land routes connecting Europe to Middle East and Asia.Handshaking is customary.Sofia Church * St.

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Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Travelling To Albania

The residents supposedly descended from ancient Illyrians.Both the entry fees as well as any merchandise will be on a higher scale, so it’s better not to reveal the fact that you are a foreigner when out on the streets.There are places right outside Tirana which is an amazing site for not just canoeing, but also rock climbing, hiking, and camping.Prohibited Items Things that are prohibited to carry are firearms, narcotics and ammunitions.The route is about 2 km long and the ride costs €Alpha Yachting provides crewed yacht which is a luxury in itself.A tourist bus is available every 3 hrs to get to the city center and takes about 30 minutes to get there.Travelling within the country Buses with relatively cheap fares operate in the main cities of the country or taxis are another choice which provided service for some main hotels.Bus is another option.Swim suits are meant for the beaches, otherwise women are expected not to dress in a revealing outfit.One should carry necessary documents like International Driving Permit and national driving license.People dress informally here.Speed limit should be strictly followed on highways as well as within towns.Eating Out Restaurants are not always sufficiently heated, so always wear warm clothes if out in the night during winters.To greet someone, handshaking is preferred, though Shoku (Comrade) was used before, which has been long forgotten now.Buses start from Istanbul, Athens and Sofia.There are about 151 rooms and 56 suites.The guests are served with coffee, raki or sweets.When addressing someone prefix Zoti(Mr) or Zonja(Mrs) before the name and always remember to carry some gifts when visiting someone, although flowers aren’t much acceptable.Foreigners are charged more than the locals.The airport, Mother Teresa, is 16 miles or 26 km away from the capital.So, along with the comfort, one can shop at once convenience here.Driving at night should be better avoided because of the absence of street lights on the road except for urban areas.Special export permission should be taken for precious metals, books, antiques, work of art, or material of national or historic value.If tired one can take halts at hotels or other designated areas.

It is located 1000 m away from the city and is also a good example of traditional architecture.The main ports are Durres (has ferry connection to Italy, Bari, Brindisi, Trieste, and Ancona), Vlora (has ferry connection to Bari, and Brindisi), Saranda (has connection to Corfu), Shen Gjini (has ferry connection to Bari).Getting There One of the best and the easiest means is to go by air.Tirana Bank is the best place for withdrawing money as it allows access to Visa cards.Duty Free Items Following are the items that can be carried without customs duty being levied on them: 1liter of spirits or 2liter of wine 250ml of eau de toilette 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco 50ml of perfume.About 2138km stretch of these roads is in poor condition and has pot holes, and utmost safety precautions should be taken when driving on such roads.If traveling by road in a private car, there is road network to the Kosovo region, but they are too dangerous to use because of the political tensions within the region.Check out www.Albanian Airlines is the national airline which works in collaboration with Tyrolean Airways, and provides service to almost all the big European cities.Another hotel which provides all modern facilities is Hotel Mondial.

Taxis are available round the clock.If trying to get there by sea, try the ferry services which are provided by Adriatic Line and Agoudimos.Crossings at Hani I Hotit, Bllata, Oafa e Thaes, Tushemisht, Gorica, Kapshtica, and kakavija can be taken.Traffic should drive on the right-hand.Site Seeing If you enjoy canoeing, this is the right place to be.Smokers don’t have to worry much, but they should avoid it where they see a sign of Ndalohet Duhani or Ndalohet pirja e duhanit.A departure tax of $10 USD is imposed on all foreign nationals.While waiting for any transport service, tourists can check out the duty free shops, bank, eateries and car hire at the airport.Internal passengers have lots of options with bus services provided.Check out www.There is a network of 18,000 km, out of which only 7450 km are main roads, for local travelers.There is a shortage of gas stations in the countryside, so filling the gas tank completely when passing through urban area is recommended and since there is lack of national recovery system; travelers should be prepared for an emergency or breakdown before hand.Accommodation If you want a 5-Star ambience, try The Sheraton Tirana Hotel and Towers, which is situated in the middle of a shopping and entertainment center.Visit Dajti Mountain and experience Dajti Ekspres Cable car for an unforgettable 15 minute ride passing through Dajt Oark to reach Tirana.Culture The culture of Albania is majorly influenced by that of the mainland Greeks especially in the urban locality; nodding one’s head means ‘no’ where as shaking the head means ‘yes’.Albania is a mountainous country and the one of the smallest countries of Europe. Read More..

Sunday, September 26, 2010

Bahamas Vacation

One visit and you will know why.Tour historic Nassau, shop duty-free Bay Street or just relax on the beach and bask in the sun (don't forget to bring sunscreen).There is something for everybody, no matter what your preferences.

The Bahamas is the most popular vacation destination in The Caribbean.With 700 islands and cays, surrounded by some of the most beautiful water on earth, there is enough to do and explore to keep you coming back for more.

From the excitement of deep-sea fishing, diving with sharks and world class casino gambling to enjoying a Bahama mama in a swim-up bar.

Explore colorful maps for Nassau, Grand Bahama, Paradise Island, New Providence, Freeport / Lucaya and the Out Islands, including; Abaco, Harbour Island, Bimini, Exuma and Eleuthera.Search for Bahamas travel info among hundreds of getaway ideas, Bahamas travel tips and individual island destination guides for all Islands of The Bahamas.You'll find carefully selected Bahamas resources.Browse listings for all of the Bahamas Islands in the Bahamas Travel Directory.Resources feature activities, hotels, rental accommodations, airlines, air charters and family travel resources for all the most popular islands. Read More..