Thinking About Traveling To Australia

By: Dalvin Rumsey

By size, English-speaking Australia is the 6th largest country in the world and it extends on to include a group of islands - one of which you might be familiar: Tasmania! Other countries close by include New Guinea, Vanuatu, New Zealand, and a few more. So if you're thinking about traveling to Australia, you might appreciate knowing a few answers to some questions that people usually ask before making a trip to 'The Land Down Under' based either on rumors they've heard or the experience of others.

Answers About Appliance Compatibility

For instance, you might appreciate knowing what personal appliances of yours will work in this country, like a blow dryer or some other appliance that you need to 'plug in somewhere'. You should note that although the country is closer to American culture than most of the others, the outlets in Australia are not the same as the outlets in the U.S.

If you're an American traveling to Australia, you're going to need to get some socket adapters and you might also need to get some voltage adapters so that you can get some of your electronic appliances from back home to work. This is of course assuming that these adapters are not already in place at the hotel that you stay at (like if you were to visit with a relative or stay with a friend).

If you want to bring along some VHS videos (like home videos) with you on your trip however, you won't have a problem displaying these because all VHS videos play on Australian VCRs. And if you can manage to get your hands on a DVD player that works in any location of the world, then you'll certainly have no problem with displaying these disks either.

Other things like CD players and personal computers should work fine too, but your current telephone won't work at all unless it can operate on a GSM-900 frequency. Should you decide to stay at a hotel, these accommodations should already be put in place. They're really only relevant if again, you decide to visit with a relative or stay with a friend - or anywhere that might not support or use American-based electronics.

Answers About Tipping

Tipping in a foreign country is always a concern, as we're often not too sure how much to tip or if even tipping is part of the custom. Although it's customary in the United States, it's actually an insult to tip a serviceman in other parts of the world. And what makes the issue even more confusing is that the rules about when to tip, who to tip, and how much to tip change all the time. Fortunately, the tipping rules in Australia are pretty simple. If you want to tip, feel free but note that most service charges are already included in any bill that you pay.

Answers About Touring the Land

Because of its immense size, touring about Australia is nothing short of extreme temptation- so you may appreciate a little lesson in its geography. For instance, If you plan to rent a car and create your own personal excavation, understand that most cities are situated around its coast. As you travel inward, toward the center of this continent, you enter areas that are less populated and the more inward you go - the more remote things become.

Although this certainly presents a circumstance of uncharted adventure for you, you're strongly advised to stick to the cities along the outer limits unless you bring along an experienced guide. As long as you stick to the populated areas, you'll be fine and you may come to enjoy some of the most attractive sights in the world like:

The Great Barrier Reef - located off the northeastern coast of Australia, it's the largest coral reef in the world.

The Red Centre - home to the largest monolith in the world; otherwise known as the Ayers Rock.

Sydney - a popular city that offers Opera House entertainment plus the Bondi, Chinaman, and Manly beaches.

Melbourne - another city known for its stylish architecture, dining, and shopping

Canberra - the most modernized center of the world that serves as Australia's own capital as well.

Of course, you wouldn't want to miss Australia's own unique plant life either - a sight that you simply won't find anywhere else in the world. And because Australia is rich with distinctive plant life, you're bound to catch sight of some unusual animals that you've probably only seen in books!

This certainly isn't an extensive list of all your concerns, but hopefully it answered some of your thoughts about traveling to this great land.

Travel by Bus

Australia's main cities can be well traveled by buses, as they frequently tour these areas on a regular basis. Moving about within urban and rural cities (up to 30 miles from city limits), you can visit some of the popular tourist attractions with discount tickets or ticket purchased directly from the bus driver.

Travel in Australia by Taxi

Traveling by taxi provides an extremely convenient way to move about when traveling short distances to important centers and residential districts. Like traveling by taxi in the United States, you can flag down a taxi anywhere in Australia including airports, train and bus stations, or even on the street.

Traveling in Australia by Car / Car Rental

Traveling by car rental in Australia is an inexpensive mode of traveling around the cities - especially since some car rental services in the area discount rentals that are arranged for three days or more. Rentals require a driver's license and a credit card that's issued to a driver between the ages of 23 to 70.

Enjoying Your Travels To Spain

By: Dalvin Rumsey

Thinking about traveling to Spain? Spain - located in southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula - continues to be one of the most popular tourist attractions and vacation spots just as much today as it has always been in the past. Maybe you're wondering about where to visit in Spain... Maybe you want to learn more about its history and experience its tremendous influence in European art... Whatever your reasons for wanting to visit are, you're certainly bound to enjoy the rich culture, customs, and history of this country once you've arrived there.

As you can imagine, the architecture of Barcelona, the Holy Monstreat, and the Toledo cathedral make this a popular coordinate. And because this is such a hot travel spot, you're advised to make your airline reservations, hotel reservations, and car rental preparations early - three to four months in advance as a matter of fact - especially when tourism is likely to be high (summer months, holidays, etc.). If you prefer to travel "off-season," - that is, during a time when tourism is low, you may not need to make such early reservations. In the latter case, one month-advanced preparation may suffice.

After you've made your reservations, you can fulfill the rest of your time preparing for everything that Spain has to offer. One of the ways that you can do that is by taking a local trip to your favorite library and perusing the immense number of books about Spain. By doing this, you can prepare yourself with the language - perhaps even check out a few books or audio tapes of the language (if available) and additionally learn about Spain's monetary system.

You should always learn about entry requirements, inoculations and other safety information you might need before you go not only to Spain - but also just about anywhere out of the country. But you can also familiarize yourself with the dress of the land and maybe try a few local restaurants that serve Spanish cuisine and play a little of its native music. Of course you can always visit your museum and inquire about the art of the land so that you'll know what to look for once you get there - in particular, the works of El Greco. The idea here is to educate yourself amid all the excitement of visiting a place so rich in culture!

Now some people like spontaneity - a little adventure - the unknown - whatever you want to call it, but some of us like to create an itinerary of things to do and places to go. If you're the "planning type," then you might appreciate taking the time to map out your excursion. And there's certainly nothing wrong with that - seeing that you're visiting a new area, your chances of being bored or going against spontaneity are very slim because Spain has so much to offer to each one of your physical senses!

When and if you create such an itinerary, some of the things that you will want to include of course are things like times to eat, take tours, attend shows, and (our favorite) shop! You might think that this information is hard to find but thanks to the Internet, it really isn't' hard to find at all. If you're working with a travel agent, then your efforts to fill an itinerary should be pretty minimal. But if you're working alone, you can certainly visit the tourist websites of Spain and create your own chart of things to discover and enjoy.

If you're handy with the native language of Spain (which you might have correctly guessed is Spanish), you can certainly read a few online Spanish newspapers to find events and locals that might be of interest to you. Chances are that you'll find a lot more entertainment information by reading a Spanish newspaper than you would if you solely relied on an English interpretation.

Once you've arrived and have found transportation to your hotel, you can inquire further to find even more interests. By this time, you should be speaking a little Spanish so that you can effectively communicate and exchange money with your hotel manager:

Hola! (Hello)
Gracias! (Thank You)
Como te llamas? (What's your name?)
Como estas? (How are you?)
Me llamo... (My name is...)
Soy de United States of America (I'm from the United States of America)
No comprendo (I don't understand)
Por favor (please)
Me numero de telefono es el... (My phone number is [and then the numbers in Spanish [uno, dos, tres, quatro, cinco, etc.)

You'll of course want to learn how to ask for other important things like help and/or directions. These are some of the things that will make your trip to Spain more enjoyable - especially as you converse with the natives and experiment with new foods or amusements that you hadn't even planned for! Just remember to pack your camera or your small video cam so that you can record your experience and enjoy them with loved ones back home.

Travel in Spain by Taxi

Traveling by taxi in Spain provides an extremely convenient way to move about and "sight-see." Like traveling by taxi in the United States, minimum charges accompany metered mileage plus a small additional fee for baggage and evening - night - or holiday drives.

Spain Driving Tips

European Union citizens (18 years or older) must own a national driving license to drive in Spain, however non-European Union citizens (18 years or older) also need an International Driving Permit as well. Both types of citizens must have car insurance and identification (license, passport, etc.) by law, is required at all times. Seat belts must be worn by all passengers, and travelers under the age of 14 must be seated in the back seat of the vehicle. When driving, remember that driving positions are reversed to American drivers. You must yield to on-coming traffic from junctures and traffic circles.

Special care should be taken to restrict your driving to the main routes outlined on the most recent maps of this area as other routes may not be appropriate for driving (dirt roads, mountain passes, etc.). In urban areas, you can conveniently refuel your vehicle from unleaded or diesel gas stations. But if you'll drive for long periods of time, it's wise to completely fill your tank, as fuel stations are sparse in rural sections of the country.

Driving speeds are generally restricted to 30 mph to 56 mph, however driving speeds can increase from 62 mph to 75 mph on highways with more than two lanes. Be prepared to pay both variable and fixed toll charges associated with city entry ways.

Traveling in Spain by Car / Car Rental

Because Spain's city centers are so popular, you are cautioned to avoid driving in these areas - especially since the narrow roads in these places can accommodate traffic traveling in one direction only. In addition, parked automobiles make driving extremely difficult. Traveling by car rental is best accomplished by following a current map of its roads - which offer views that are nothing short of amazing.

Planning a Vacation? How about Disneyland!

By: Justin Brown

After working hard all year long, everyone deserves a vacation to relieve all the stress and to enjoy time with friends and family. This is why it's important to choose a destination that will fulfill all expectations...Disneyland!

As many go on holiday with family, it is essential that there is something to enjoy for all members of the family, and this is certainly the case at Disneyland. Surprises are always welcomed, but if you have children and you decide to spend your vacation in a city that has nothing fun to offer them, then the surprise turns into a nightmare. Going away from friends, even if for a week, seems to children something that requires an effort, so try and make then want that vacation by offering them exciting with plenty of things to do, things that can combine education and pleasure.

The choice of Disneyland vacation destinations is entirely yours. Depending upon a number of factors you may choose to visit Disneyland in Paris, Florida, California, or Tokyo. This will depend on how far you are willing to travel, your vacation budget, and if there are any other attractions that you may wish to visit whilst there. All offer great features for kids and adults to enjoy, and there is always plenty going on at all times of the day to ensure that no-one gets bored.

Maybe Disneyland isn't for you, but of course there are wonderful places to visit all around the world. If budget allows it, you can make a trip around the world to visit the seven world's wonders, which will be something that you will never forget. The Pyramids for instance are mysterious buildings, dated since the ancient Egyptians, enclosing a technology and architecture that can hardly be matched even in today's world. Go and walk through these world wonders to try and understand the mystery, to see for yourself the simplicity of the people and the splendor of the country.

Vacation can simply be spent at home also. We can just relax and catch up on lost sleep if we feel too exhausted to travel. Meeting friends, having barbecues, sitting by the pool and playing with children will make us forget the hard year that passed. However, make sure one of your vacations is spent at Disneyland; it really is a "must-do" vacation that shouldn't be missed.

Author Bio
Disneyland Tickets provides some great information on a variety of Disneyland topics including the Disneyland hotel. Be sure to stop by the site and have a read through the information available.

Caribbean Vacation for the Summer Vacation

By: Lena Hilltorp

For Americans summer has always been the time to go out on holidays and enjoy the beach and the Sun. what could be a better place for that than the Caribbean Islands with their lovely beaches, blue waters and the most pleasant sun. In fact the Caribbean has been such a huge hit with American tourists that today the tourism industry is one of the biggest industries of the place.

There are numerous islands in the Caribbean, but some have been all-time favorites with the tourists. The biggest destinations are the islands of Anguilla, Aruba, Bahamas, Curacao and the British Virgin Islands. A visit to any of these islands will leave you with happy memories, you can hardly ever forget.

Bahamas
Bahamas has always been a very popular destination for the American tourists because of its proximity to the country. Still having a feel of the British colonial days in its buildings and architecture, the Bahamas is also very tropical in spirit. Known for its beautiful beaches pine forests, Bahamas is the perfect place to sit back and relax.

If you are in the Bahamas you should never miss the Rand Nature Center where you get to see the exact recreation of a Lucayan Village, which has everything, from the chieftain's house to the dwelling huts. And if you are a food freak you got to taste the local snacks from a Bahamian straw market.

The Atlantis Resort is located on Paradise Island, near Nassau in the formerly-British Bahamas just a hop from Florida.

The guidebook "Caribbean With Kids" calls the Atlantis on Bahamas "one of the most lavish properties in the entire Caribbean": which is saying something, considering what the region offers.

The Atlantis Bahamas grounds have waterfalls, streams, lagoons filled with sea creatures, underwater viewing areas: with 11 exhibit lagoons and 11 million gallons of water, the resort claims it has the "largest marine habitat in the world".

The world's largest marine habitat, the largest casion in the Bahamas (and the Caribbean), a 15 million dollar marina, lagoons, waterfalls and the underwater ruins of Atlantis itself....Atlantis Bahamas Resort has achieved a distinctive combination of comfort and adventure unlike any other vacation destination.

Atlantis on Bahamas is a deluxe high rise with 2300 rooms and casino situated on the beach. Three towers make up the complex, the Beach, Coral and the newest is Royal Towers.

Anguilla
One of the best family destinations in the Caribbean, Anguilla is famous for its neat beaches many of which are non-commercial. And of course you have the rare opportunity to share the waters with dolphins in Dolphin Fantaseas - one of the biggest attractions of Anguilla. Another place to b e in is Scilly Cay - which provides the perfect setting for barbecue and snorkeling. But the most special thing about Anguilla is her people. They are among the warmest in Caribbean and they go all the way to make you feel comfortable and at home

Aruba
"One Cool Family" is the program organized by the Aruba government to pull in new tourists as well as bring back those who have already been to this lovely island. Such schemes emphasize how important tourism has become in these places and when the government is coming up with such ideas you can rest assure there would be enough effort to provide you with the finest holiday ever.

Apart from the exotic beaches and the clear blue seas other attractions of Aruba include Boca Prins, the perfect destination for dune sailing and land sailing. Of course there are arrangements for the regular activities like snorkeling and scuba diving.

Curacao

Just two and half hour from Miami, Curacao is unlike any other Caribbean island. Of course it has got the beaches and the lovely seas, but this dominion of the Kingdom of the Netherlands is also special because of its diverse mix of history and culture. The experience you have at Curacao is, in that sense unique among the Caribbean islands. If yours is a family which is into adventure this can be the perfect destination as you can head for the Hato Caves to witness the amazing dry land sea caves complete with underground pools, cave drawings and fossils which date back to millions of years. But if you are more interested in just lying back and enjoying your vacation you can do that too while enjoying the best of Curacao culture that has a strong influence of the Dutch.

British Virgin Islands
Once a haven for the pirates, the British Virgin Islands is today the perfect place for diving and snorkeling. It also provides you with the very best opportunities to sail. And if you have been a fan of Stevenson's Treasure Island, you can actually see for yourself from where it was inspired - the Norman Island. With calm waters, swimming is also one of the favorite activities among tourists.

Watching the Indigo Bunting

Are you a bird watcher? If you’ve never been very impressed by birds, then perhaps you haven’t been watching the right ones. Consider the Indigo Bunting as an example.

Enlarge Image

By Cindy Hunsinger

Our office window has somehow over time become our portal to the great outdoors. From our home office we are able to observe various species of wildlife. We can watch the deer devour the fruits of our labor in our garden, much to our dismay and, at the same time, our awe. We can also watch with great fascination as mother and father Carolina Wrens construct their new home under the cover of our propane tank. And rejoice with them at the first flight of their babies on the beginning of their life’s journey. We have watched a spider work hard daily to spin her web in hopes of a good catch, a preying mantis await his next meal, butterflies effortlessly float by, and a very demanding hummingbird alert us whenever his feeder is empty.

However, the visitors we have seen more recently have been simply fascinating. I have never seen a bird with such a striking blue tone to its feathers. I had to know more about this beautiful creature so I quickly turned to the computer to research these brilliant blue birds. I just had to know what species they were and how we could get more. If you have never seen the Indigo Bunting then I know your first sighting of one will perhaps be just as exciting for you as it was for me. The color of these little birds is spectacular. What I didn’t know was that they are actually little finches. Their plumage appears almost iridescent.

They are approximately 5½ inches in size. They migrate at night using the stars to guide them. Thankfully they prefer bushy areas near the edge of woodland, which describes our backyard just beyond our garden and explains why we are graced with their presence. They also like yards with bushes and shrubs.

During the breeding season indigo buntings can be found in Eastern North America and Southern Canada. The males are the first to arrive in North America, anywhere from April to mid May. They then establish their territories and await the arrival of the females. Each female will then chose her mate and they will raise 2 to 3 broods. The female builds a sound nest of twigs, leaves, and plant fibers. She then lines the nest with feathers, fine grasses, cloth, and other materials. Once she lays the eggs she proceeds to incubate them for about 2 weeks. During this time the male stays away from the nest until the eggs hatch, but he will defend the nest from predators. After the hatchlings fledge the male takes care of them while the female prepares for the second brood.

So how do I attract more of these gorgeous birds to my backyard? Well, among the foods they enjoy are spiders and insects. They also like seeds, berries, and fruit. A source of water, a seed feeder, and some shrubbery would also be a welcoming sight and perhaps a selling point for them to move right in.

With a little effort, perhaps when you look out your window, you too will be amazed by what you see.

By Buzzle Staff and Agencies
Published: 7/14/2008

Going on Vacation By Getting Back to Nature

For an inexpensive and fun vacation full of adventure, put away the hotel directory and pick up a campground guide instead.

By Gary Orlando

Airfares and hotel accommodations are getting more expensive every year and forcing more and more families to look into a vacation they can take without having to spending a ton of money or go into debt with their credit card. So how does one accomplish an affordable vacation that’s still adventurous and fun? The answer lies in packing up and going camping. Camping does not have to cost a lot of money and can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

First, there’s no need to buy transportation tickets or plan your schedule around travel times. You don’t need a camper or RV to go camping, either. The family vehicle will do nicely as transportation, as most camp grounds are paved or have very well maintained roads. Some campgrounds even offer camping cabins for a slightly higher fee, if you don’t want to go the tent route. Find out about your camp site in advance; some have electricity available at campsites, which comes in handy for lanterns, radios, and even small appliances. Many campsites have water available also, which makes it easy to clean up after meals, brush your teeth before going to bed, and wash your face in the morning.

There are usually only a few things that can get a little pricey if you have to buy them. The tent, a camp stove, and a lantern are all pretty standard items for camping, and they come in all types and all price ranges. But before you buy any equipment, particularly if you’re new to camping, you should check around with family and friends and you may be able to borrow most, if not all, of the equipment you’ll need. If not, your local Rent-All center may have tents and stoves, and perhaps other camping gear.

Some military surplus centers have a ton of different types of camping gear. If you have more than one surplus center in your area it would pay to shop, as their pricing is anything but uniform. Last, but not least, you can check out the sporting goods stores in your area. Even chain department stores like K-mart and Wal-Mart have camping supplies, and usually in different price points. It depends on your needs, but if you have to buy new equipment, a new small 3- or 4-person tent can be had for under $100, and a camp stove for about $40. A good lantern can cost anywhere from $10 for a battery-operated one to $35 for one that takes white gas or propane. If you have a choice, get a stove and lantern that use the same fuel, as it will be cheaper and easier to pack.

As far as the rest of the gear goes, just use your common sense. Sleeping bags will not be needed when it’s warm. Bring an old blanket or comforter and some sheets from home. Everybody already has at least one cooler, so you can use that to take food with you. The rest of the equipment is whatever you think you might need—flashlights, pocket knives, a compass, a first aid kit, the correct clothing for the area you will be camping in, etc. If you’re taking children camping, be sure to bring along any games the kids might like to have. Getting them out of the house and into the outdoors may be your opportunity to get them away from the iPod, cell phone, or video game machine. There are plenty of adults today who grew up with old-fashioned board games and puzzles and that’s it—and they turned out okay! Besides, there will be hiking, maybe fishing, and lots of things to see and do while camping, whether you’re at a modern campground with facilities and planned activities, or out in the wilderness away from civilization.

As far as food goes, bring what you want. It will be much cheaper to prepare it yourself than to go out and eat, and there’s a certain charm and adventure to cooking your own food outdoors over a fire. You can easily take perishable food camping; just freeze your meats and store them in the cooler on the bottom by the ice, and if your cooler is a good one the meat will stay cold for a couple of days while it keeps everything else in the cooler fresh. As for the meal plan, the simpler the better. Eggs, bacon, or sausage are fantastic when cooked outdoors on an open grill. Hot dogs, hamburgers, steaks, or chops for grilled meats, and potatoes cook nicely in the coals from a campfire. As far as other vegetables go, canned vegetables can be heated up in a pot placed on a grate over a fire, or freeze-dried vegetables may work well if you have a good clean source of water.

Think about your utensils and select the ones that can be used in many different ways. Don’t double up on them, as they can be heavy. If you stay at a campground that has sites with electricity, consider taking along an electric frying pan, which is the most versatile of all small appliances for camping. You can prepare most meals in an electric frying pan—from sausage and eggs to sautéed vegetables, grilled cheese sandwiches, soups and stews, and even toasted bagels. After dinner, just heat clean water in the pan and it doubles as a place to wash the dishes. As for basic cooking utensils, be sure to take at least one good knife, eating utensils, one or two serving spoons, and a spatula. Just use you imagination, and if you forget something you can always pick it up in town, or at the camp store if there is one.

As you can see, there is a way to take a relatively inexpensive vacation and get some good family bonding time in also. If you’re not sure whether you or your family will like camping out, plan a few days somewhere with an inexpensive motel close by, but don’t tell the family. Then, if it doesn’t go very well or the kids just get tired of it, you have an out and will be the hero all over again. Some of the best, most memorable times a family can have will be discovered on camping vacations.

By Buzzle Staff and Agencies
Published: 6/2/2006

The First Time Camper - Packing Light

Are you camping for the first time? Meet the great outdoors with confidence with these tips for packing light.

To some people, the thought of camping is far from a vacation. To others, it’s a great escape, a chance to spend time outdoors and reconnect with the essence of nature. If you’re a first time camper it is important for you to differentiate essential items to pack from luxuries you will likely not need. Are you going to have cell phone service at your destination? Do you need your entire makeup bag, or can you get by with a few simple items? And most important, how do you plan to stay warm, dry and fed on your trip? The key to safe and successful camping is knowing what necessities to bring with you, and what to leave behind.

Your needs may be different if you’re camping in a rustic cabin versus tent camping at a campground, or hiking into the woods and pitching a tent there. Since it is a good idea to have some camping experience under your belt before you go off into the woods, your best bet is to start by reserving a campsite at a campground. Even when camping at a campground though, there are important things to consider when packing for your trip.

Utilities
Before you even start making your list of items to pack, find out if the campground has utilities available. If they do not provide electricity, for example, either leave items requiring electricity behind, or bring alternative battery operated items with you instead. If the campground offers running water and bathhouses, don’t weight yourself down with gallons of water you won’t need. Finally, find out if a grill or fire pit is provided so you can plan your meals accordingly. Gathering this information ahead of time can save you a lot of frustration in the long run.

Weather – Plan for Rain
As much as we would like to believe the accuracy of the weather forecast, it is always a good idea to plan for a variety of weather patterns. This means plan for both rain and sunshine alike. There is nothing more frustrating than waking up in the middle of the night only to find the floor of your tent soaking wet. So regardless of the forecast, place a tarp or large piece of plastic under the tent to help keep you dry.

While you’re at it, it’s a good idea to also pack a couple of ponchos, raincoats or umbrellas as well. These items can help keep you dry so that you can enjoy activities even when the weather isn’t cooperating. These items don’t take up much room, so they’re worth adding to your list of things to pack.

Protect Your Skin
Blazing sun can give way to nasty sunburns if you’re not careful. The sun can be deceiving, so make sure to bring suntan lotion with a high enough SPF level to keep you’re your skin protected. Having a hat with a visor to wear while you’re out walking, swimming or boating is easy to transport and can offer additional protection during those unexpected heat waves.

Protect Yourself from Insects
Regardless of where you camp, a few different kinds of insects will likely cross your path. Bring at least one can of insect repellent with you on your trip. You will likely enjoy the outdoors a little more if you aren’t spending all of your time swatting away pesky flies. That being said, at the end of the day it is always a good idea to check yourself for lingering insects that may have clung to your clothing.

Think Layers
Because warm days can quickly turn to chilly nights, you will want to pack for all occasions. Go ahead and throw your bathing suit in your sack, but also pack long sleeve shirts, pants and a sweatshirt. If you are camping in a warm climate you may not be as concerned about the chilly nights, but it is still important to think ahead, consider weather patterns, and pack accordingly. It is always better to have the option to peel layers off than to wish you had brought warmer clothing.

Food
One of the great things about camping is being able to experiment with cooking. Whatever you decide to cook on your trip, also consider essential tools to make the process easier. Tinfoil works wonders when cooking vegetables, for example, and don’t forget to bring a spatula or grilling fork if you’re cooking meat. As much as you may want to only pack paper plates and plastic utensils, you won’t be happy when your plastic fork melts while flipping steaks over the campfire. This doesn’t mean you need to pack your whole kitchen (after all the goal is to pack light), but you will want a few multipurpose essentials to make your cooking a little easier. Finally, if you are packing meats, condiments or dairy products, make sure you also have a plan to keep these items cold so they don’t spoil.

Planning for a camping trip may seem like a lot of work, but planning ahead and ridding your packing list of unnecessary items can help simplify the process. When all is said and done, the most important things to consider are your basic fundamental needs: food and water, shelter, clothing and safety. Everything else is optional and can only add to the enjoyment of your camping experience.

Camping is an opportunity to reconnect with nature, enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, and experience a different way of life. Enjoy the essence of camping by leaving a few luxuries behind and getting away from the hustle and bustle of your everyday routine. By keeping it simple and planning ahead, camping can be a fun and stress-free way to enjoy the great outdoors while spending quality time with friends and family.

By Jennifer Prince
Published: 7/22/2007

Meet the Rest of the World by Camping

Why go camping? Camping and hiking are a relaxing form of recreation. They also allow us to see how the rest of the world lives, as we visit the earth’s other inhabitants in their own home.

By Earl Hunsinger

"I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived." So wrote Henry David Thoreau to describe his experience living on the shore of Walden Pond, just south of Concord Massachusetts. Even then, in the 1840s, the idea of living as simply as possible was considered a little unusual. Thoreau himself regarded the two years he spent in the Concord woods as an experiment. How much more complicated have our lives become over the last 160 years? How much more have we separated ourselves from Nature?

Most of us today live in an artificial world. We spend our lives indoors, behind man made walls. No matter how aesthetically pleasing these may be, they are artificial, limiting our experience. To a city dweller, seeing a live cow or chicken may be as novel an experience as seeing a polar bear or wildebeest. Even his experience with trees and plants may be confined to walking down a well maintained tree lined street or strolling through a carefully planned city park.

While country dwellers may have more exposure to flora and fauna, unless they happen to be a farmer, their daily life is probably a small town reflection of the big city. We view nature through the window of our home or office, or out the window of our car on the way to work or the store. Even children have become more insulated from the natural world. In years past, children, at least those in rural areas, knew every rock and tree within a mile of their house. They were amateur scientists, studying everything from how long it took ants to find a piece of candy left in the dirt to which berries were good to eat and which were poisonous. Now, thanks to cable TV, the internet, and video games, they too live their lives indoors.

There are over 6 billion people on the earth. Yet, as reported in Science Daily some scientists estimate that there may be as many as 100 million different species of other living creatures, including insects, fish, birds, and animals. It’s ironic then that a man can consider himself worldly wise while knowing very little about the other creatures inhabiting the world, some of which may be as close as his backyard or the empty lot across the street.

It’s no wonder that species are going extinct at an alarming rate today. It’s not just that people don’t care; they don’t have enough experience to care. When you live your life indoors, what’s happening in the woods or water that you see flying by the side of the highway on your way to work simply doesn’t seem to have any relevance.

Of course, few today have the courage or circumstances to imitate Thoreau and leave it all behind for a life in the woods. Fewer still have the desire to do so. Still, we might benefit from spending a few days there. I don’t just mean benefit in an environmentally conscious way. That wouldn’t hurt. After all, like it or not, without other living things, human life would be impossible. Many though have found that spending a few hours hiking in the woods, or spending a few days camping in the woods, benefits them on a more personal level.

The American Hiking Society has information on the health benefits of hiking. These include both physical and mental benefits. While the health benefits of camping may be harder to quantify, they are similar to the express purpose of any vacation. If you want to unwind, relax, and clear your mind of the hundred sources of stress that assault you in the hectic life you have created for yourself, go camping.

Camping, at least tent camping in the woods, is life at its simplest. Your only worries are eating, sleeping, staying warm and dry, etc. With a little preparation and training, doing these things is relatively simple. Many campers have found that stripping life down to such essentials makes such simple everyday things more enjoyable. Living in the natural world rather than apart from it, even for a short time, seems to heighten the senses. The crystal clear water of a mountain stream seems to sparkle more in the sunshine. Its cold water seems more refreshing. Food seems to taste better when cooked over a campfire and eaten under a canopy of leaves. You find yourself waking with the sun, yet feeling refreshed and ready to face a new day.

Camping also allows you to meet the rest of the world, or perhaps to become reacquainted with some old friends from your childhood. You might see an eagle, feeding its young by snatching fish from a lake. Or a crayfish, going about its business in a rocky streambed. You might see a mother deer and its fawn foraging for food, or a beaver busily building a dam. The night air might be disturbed by the hoot of an owl, or the sound of a raccoon coming into your camp looking for food. As you meet these fellow citizens of our planet and observe how they live their lives, your heart rate will probably slow and you will probably find yourself becoming more and more relaxed.

So then, why not do as Thoreau did? Go to the woods. By walking through the woods on a hike, or camping in the woods, perhaps you too can learn what life in the woods has to teach.

By Buzzle Staff and Agencies
Published: 9/11/2007

India Adventure Sports, Activities and Destinations

India is a very popular holiday destination. Mostly travelers come here to see the diverse culture and heritages. This is about adventure tourism in India. Article tells you about why India should be considered among the top adventure vacation destination.

Landscape and topography of India lends itself to variety of outdoor activities. Not many peopLE know, India is a place where one can indulge in numerous adventure activities, if not all. Definition of adventure is different for different person and best thing about adventure tourism in India is that it provides adventure sports ranging from soft adventure to active and extreme adventure. Soft adventures are ideal for family and kids and require very little or no skill and experience. Extreme adventure in India can be physically and mentally demanding and require good experience.

Regarding adventure sports, there are many, India offere trekking, white water rafting, snow skiing, hang gliding, scuba diving, mountain biking, hiking, jungle safari, camel safari, rock climbing, camping, list is endless. Here are some of the adventure sports with their destinations which can be enjoyed here.

Trekking in Himalayas
Himalayas is among some places in the world which still has unspoilt nature and trekking adventure can be enjoyed by everyone and if it is not enough you have the option of camping also. Himalayas offer trekking routes for all type of trekkers, easier ones are ideal for inexperienced and can be enjoyed with family ad well, but it requires long hours of walking along the trails for which you need to be fit enough to go through this. Then there are difficult routes too, which require prior experience. Trekkers should be ready to face extreme conditions of Himalayan region. Popular trekking places in Himalayas are Ladakh, Garhwal, Kumaon and Arunachal Pradesh.

White Water Rafting in Rishikesh
From short trips of half dayfor beginners to 2-3 day long tours for experienced, Rishikesh offers ultimate choice of river rafting fun. Rafting on fast flowing Himalayan glacial rivers can be a great adventure and fun in Rishikesh. Rafting in Rishikesh is truly adventure of lifetime. Rishikesh whitewater rafting trip offers spectacular and scenic locations promising the river rafting trip to be an unforgettable one. Rapids of Grade II to Grade V can be found here making it ideal for both beginners and experts. Rafting in Rishikesh will be a trip you won't soon forget.

Skiing in Auli
People head towards Auli during winters to enjoy and experience the pleasure of skiing. Auli is most popular destination in India for snow skiing adventure. Auli is a isolated place which makes it more magnetic and destination to be for ski enthusiasts of world over. For learners there are courses available at affordable price. So, you don't have to worry of being left out if don't have any experience of skiing, you can always avail the skiing courses available in Auli. It is a place where natural beauty is in abundance and with introduction of 4 km long ropeway between Joshimath and Auli the attraction has increased manifolds.

Ballooning in India
Anyone who loves adventure should try hot air ballooning in India. Though it is a new concept, but is fast becoming popular and is one of the best and unique way of seeing the countryside. Desert area of Rajasthan is a popular destination for hot air ballooning in India. Flights take off from Jaipur, Pushkar and Ranthambore. View the Pushkar Camel fair from above and get bird's eye view of wild animals at Ranthambore National Park with hot air balloon flight. Ballooning can also be enjoyed in greater Delhi and mountains of Manali.
Hot air balloon flights can be enjoyed from mid September to March which organized by Balloon Club of India in New Delhi.

Camel Safari in Thar Desert
Camel safari is the best way to explore mirages of Thar Desert in Rajasthan. Journey here on camel back will bring you to small desert villages where you can witness the vibrant culture and traditions of Rajasthani people. Camel safari adventure takes you across the trade route of olden days. GO through small desert villages, see the ruins of ancient forts and structures. Camel safari along with camping out in night in Rajasthan Desert can be the adventure of life. There are many more adventure sports which can be enjoyed in India like ice climbing, mountain biking, para gliding, hang gliding, scuba diving, fishing, angling and kayaking, making India one of the best destinations for enjoying adventure sports.

Vishal Gupta is travel and tourism writer. Has written many articles on India tourism and travel.

Travel India
Get complete information about adventure sports, activities and destinations of India.

By Vishal Gupta
Published: 9/27/2008

Ripping Travel Rewards - Travel Like a Pirate on Air Miles

This article talks about Canadian travel rewards credit cards. Staying out of debt, and using those air miles to the max.

Ok, you're a Canadian Motorist and you have a few credit cards. Hopefully you don't have more than 2 cards. One for Personal and maybe one for Business. If you have more than that GET RID OF THEM. If you need more credit or you need a method to pay things off at a little lower interest rate than the credit card company's offer then be smart, Get a Line of Credit. If you don't have a business, then you could easily manage with one credit card and a line of credit.

In Canada I recommend the American Express Air miles Rewards Card, or a new card from American Express in Canada called the Blue Sky Travel Rewards Credit Card. Both these cards are excellent. They are accepted everywhere and they allow you to accumulate travel points on all your purchases.

The Reward provided by these cards really give you an incentive to use your credit card for all your basic expenses. The more you charge, the more rewards towards travel and or products you get.

If your an irresponsible spender the rewards are a bit of a trap in that you will end up with few points a full balance on your card and very little points. However if you are responsible with your credit and debts pay off your card monthly and don't carry too much of a balance these cards are perfect for you. Giddy up and ride the Amex Rewards Programs - just be sure you work it smart.

Now, that you have the card. What's the plan? Here are a few ideas to accumulate as many rewards as possible and trade them for a nice vacation every year or couple of years depending on your cash flow.

- Always pay your card off monthly.
- Purchases that will take several months to pay off should be charged to the credit card, and then at the end of the month this debt should be transferred to a line of credit or low interest loan.
- Run all your monthly utility charges through the card and pay off at the end of the month. This means your cell phone, your electricity your rent if possible, and your heat, dry cleaning, etc
- If you are on an expense account at work you can run all your personal expenses through the card also.
- In the case of the Airmiles Amex Card, you can accumulate extra miles just by shopping at selected merchants.

The methodology is endless. Shop smart have fun by getting yourself an American express rewards type credit card.

And travel on points me hearty!

Dewey Finn is a selfish pirate who likes to rip as many rewards as he can from the credit card industry. He hates to see people accumulate debt, and is a self appointed specialist in the finance field. He has written numerous articles on various topics.

Apply Now For The Amex Air Miles Rewards Card
American Express air miles application page - Safe Secure.

By Dewey Finn
Published: 10/6/2008

Condo or Hotel: Whatever Suits your Needs in Breckenridge

You’re off to a Breckenridge vacation, so make sure you’ve taken care of the things you should have done before going. When planning a vacation, one of the most important thing you do is to look for the best accommodations in advance.

When you’re planning a Breckenridge vacation the first thing you should always do is to look for the best accommodation for you. Your accommodation should cater to your needs. Space wise, location and amenities, your accommodation should fit your needs. Of course there are factors you need to consider first. Your lodging should fit your need, and must be very accessible to the activities you will be doing. Whether you’re going to enjoy the wildflowers covered mountains during summer or go skiing in the world class snow on one of the best Breckenridge ski resorts during winter, you always have to consider where you’ll be staying because your accommodations can make or break your whole vacation.

For some, vacations are a good excuse to eat out everyday. While it can be so tempting to sample the local delicacies and great restaurants in Breckenridge they can get very expensive when added up. When you’re staying in a condo, you will have full access to a kitchen. Breckenridge play host to quaint Farmer’s Market every summer, and with a whole kitchen at your disposal why not take advantage of the fresh produce and plan a whole meal with the fresh ingredients you bought. A home cooked meal is enjoyed best when labored with love together with your friends or family.

If you are one of the people who spend too much of their vacation budget on their hotel because let’s face it, staying in cheaper hotels can sometimes give you a lot of frustration and can ultimately ruin your whole trip. An alternative way is to rent a condo, town home or a vacation home instead, they give your family the space to enjoy a vacation together and sometimes even offer extra space for others. This is really recommended if your party is big. Staying in a vacation home or town home means you will have more privacy because staying in a hotel can sometimes get cramped.

If you’ve been to one hotel, you’ve been to all. Unless you’re staying in a suite, hotel rooms can be pretty standard. There may be complimentary newspaper, chocolates, flowers or mints but the room can be very standard, a bed, bathroom, TV and small closet. When you’re renting a condo or a vacation home you will feel a little bit cozier like you’re just spending it your vacation on a friend’s house. Condos and vacation homes are designed to come fully equipped like a home, kitchen, patio and all, you will definitely feel cozier and more at home, some even have a game room and an entertainment room, with movies and all. It’s like home away from home.

Don’t you ever wonder how it would be like to live everyday like you’re on vacation? I certainly am one of those people. What I would give to wake up everyday without a worry in the world. Many vacationers who visit Breckenridge dream of purchasing a vacation home someday, but with the economy and the rising costs of home ownership these days even considering is just simply out of the question. Renting a vacation home or condo can give you all the perks of having a vacation place all to yourself and your family without having to worry about making your mortgage payment next month.

Added extras like a gym, pool, or a hot tub is a must for some vacationers. These amenities are usually the reason why vacationers choose their hotel. This definitely can be a must for some but for most an added bonus. Relaxing in a hot tub is just not the same when you’re sharing it with complete strangers. Nowadays, these amenities are available in condos, vacation homes and high end cabins. Breckenridge have long been a favorite destination and know how to cater their vacationers needs You will find that condos or vacation homes have all the features offered in any hotel, and some of that little extra you are looking for and more. You will have privacy, your very own kitchen; maybe even has a game room but certainly more storage space for you, your family and friends.

Choosing the right accommodation for your vacation is the key in having a drama free and fun filled stay in Breckenridge. So make sure to plan ahead. A well thought out itinerary together with great accommodations will most definitely spell fun in Breckenridge as far as vacations go. Visit to Breckenridge

By Chris Cook
Published: 10/14/2008

Mysterious Tibet and the Legend of Ancient Tea-Horse Road

The ancient Tea-Horse Road plays a similar role as the Silk Road, and is a significant part of the international trade in the history. Besides a road of wealth, it was also a road of cultural exchange that created a cultural bond between Tibetans and Chinese in the history, and facilitated the spread of Buddhism in China.

Unknown by the western world until the 20th century, Tibet has always been the synonym of mystery. When you visit Tibet, You will immediately be amazed by its pure heavenly natural beauty, and be overwhelmed by its holiness of religious atmosphere. It is a journey that purifies your soul, and a discovery of outstanding culture and nature. From the impressive Buddhism ceremonies in the monasteries to the breathtaking sacred mountains of the Himalayas, Tibet, the roof of the world, will give every of its visitors a memory never fades away.

The symbol of Tibet is the majestic Potala Palace perched on top of Marpo Ri Hill in the center of the city of Lhasa. It is the must-go of most visitors to Tibet. The Potala Palace is the religious and political center of Tibet and the former residence of the Dalai Lama. It is the most sacred place in Tibetans’ heart. Although place like Lhasa is definitely somewhere that tourists can not miss, this article is going tell you something about Tibet that is absolutely magnificent but out of the spot lights.

Among the snowy mountains and deep gorges between Tibet and Yunnan, there are some mysterious footpaths winding through the mountainsides, some are even carved into cliff face crossing one of the most dangerous terrain and uninhabitable area in the world. These footpaths have been called the ancient Tea-Horse Road. Hardly to be called a road it starts from Sichuan and Yunnan provinces in Southwest China, runs along the eastern foothills and deep canyons of several major rivers, than heads into Tibet spanning the two highest plateaus of China (i.e. the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the Yunnan-Guizhou plateau), and finally reaches India, south of the Himalayas. But why have these ancient footpaths been called the Tea-Horse Road, who discovered this ancient route into Tibet, and what is the role it plays in the history?

It can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907). Tibetan people liked drinking Pu-erh tea (i.e. post-fermented tea compressed in thick rectangular blocks, flat squares, discuses or other shapes) because they ate high calories food such as butter, Tsamba, beef, and lamb but consumed very little vegetables. Pu-erh tea not only helped them to digest the heavy food but also offered their Vitamin need. Tibetans did not drink the Pu-erh directly but mixed the tea with the yak butter creating a salty and rich tea which is still common today. However the environmental situation of Tibet did not allow for the growing of the tea. Luckily, the neighboring Yunnan was an ideal land for growing tea, and they made Pu-erh tea in great quality. Those who could manage to transfer the tea from Yunnan into Tibet were going to make good money.

On the other hand, Chinese army needed strong warhorses desperately, comparatively Tibetans had a strong mounted army and they also had access to Middle Asia, where possessed the best military horses in the world. However, it was almost a mission impossible to exchange goods between Tibet and Yunnan, because any possible land connection between the two regions was almost cut off by the harsh terrain. The natural border between Tibetan plateau and Yunnan is formed of endless snowy mountains and deep gorges with steep cliffs which is tough for any land animals to cross the area. Finally the irresistible temptation of making huge profit had given the merchants enough courage to make their way through cleverly however dangerously. If the mountains could not be climbed they went around them on the mountainsides. By following the rivers they could take advantage of the narrow river banks under the cliffs. In continuous and collective efforts in many years, the trading link was established. Through this route, Yunnan merchants traded Pu-erh tea for strong military horses from Tibetan, and resold these horses to the rest of China. On the other hand, Tibetan merchants also made good money by selling the tea to India and middle Asia. This is why this trading route has been called the Tea-Horse Road.

Therefore, the ancient Tea-Horse Road plays a similar role as the Silk Road, and is a significant part of the international trade in the history. Besides a road of wealth, it was also a road of cultural exchange that created a cultural bond between Tibetans and Chinese in the history, and facilitated the spread of Buddhism in China. Even today, when people are trekking on this ancient route into Tibet, they can still sense the spirit, the courage, and the wisdom devoted to this road, and marvel at this great legacy of our ancient ancestors.

This article is one of China Odyssey Tours’ serial introductions about adventurous China. Other topics include the "Simatai Great Wall, a real adventure tour", "Home of Giant Pandas – Chengdu", "Tiger Leaping Gorge and ancient town Lijiang", "The legend of Dragon Back and the fairy tale of Third Sister Liu". You would find the adventurous routes cover the above topics though China Odyssey Tours , or custom design a dream route exclusive to you.

By Professional travel consultant at chinaodysseytours.com
Published: 10/14/2008

Fontainebleau - a fabulous slice of French life

Fontainebleau - a treasure of a town just a stone's throw from the French capital.

It's maybe not as well known as it's more famous cousin Versailles, which lies to the south-west of Paris, but Fontainebleau is definitely a town worth more than a casual visit.

And it has probably been given an extra boost - in terms of tourism here in France - by being featured in this week's edition of one of the country's leading news magazines.

L'Express sells around half a million copies each week, and is a pretty good read, bringing anyone who's interested, bang up to date with what's happening here in France.

Of course it has a political bias, but that can be balanced by maybe reading one of its competitors such as Marianne or Nouvel Observateur.

Anyway I have a subscription and receive my copy every weekend.

Imagine then my combined horror and surprised delight as this week's edition popped through my door, and there emblazoned on the front was a banner headline "Fontainebleau and its surroundings" with the promise to reveal 60 top names and addresses of "must sees" and "have-to-go tos" in the town itself and the neighboring villages.

One of those neighboring villages is the one in which I live, and about which I wrote here a couple of weeks ago.

Without waxing too lyrical, it's a great place. It's home to around 1,500 people, sits on the edge of one of the largest forests surrounding Paris and is chocolate-box pretty while retaining a real soul.

Any thoughts I might have had when I first moved here a year ago that it was one of those "best kept secrets" we all like to look for, were quickly dispelled when I realised that it attracted bus loads of Japanese tourists - come rain or shine - who visit to pay homage to a hotel in which Emperor Hirohito once stayed.

Add to that the fact that it also has a school of painting named after it (one of its most famous sons was Jean-François Millet), has numerous artists' ateliers, restaurants and hotels and a calendar jam-packed with cultural events, then it's no surprise perhaps that it pretty much acts as a magnet for tourists all year round.

Still it was a bit of a shock to see the face of the local butcher staring back at me from the cover of L'Express, with the recommendation to all readers within driving distance that this was the place to buy some of the juiciest and most tender cuts.

I mean it's not as though I disagree - far from it. It's just that I feel a little protective towards a man I've come to know and like over the past year. He's MY butcher and I don't want anyone else muscling in.

Philippe Auguin. is the guy from whom I buy some of the best meat available - all of which is organic, top quality and simply delicious. So much for my "find". Now the rest of the world (or at least those who read L'Express) are likely to make a beeline for the village to stock up

Mind you, his popularity and great reputation are more than fully deserved, and it's hard to begrudge him his new found notoriety. He's the kind of fellow who is very much the heart of the village, always has a smile for his customers and makes the chore of shopping a pleasure, by offering a personal and personable alternative to the anonymity of the "Grand Surfaces" superstores.

Philippe loves his job, works a long day and takes the shortest of holidays simply because as he told me recently he "loves being back home and at the center of what's happening."

Somewhere in that is a lesson for all of us perhaps.

His is not the only "address" featured in L"Express. The special pull-out lists 60 of them, all in villages surrounding the main town of Fontainebleau - just over 50 kilometres south east of the French capital.

For sure It's less well-known that Versailles but that doesn't make it any less worth a trip out to the "sticks".

By no stretch of the imagination is it poorer architecturally, culturally or in terms of setting.

It too has its own chateau, which although less ornate that the one in Versailles is actually older. With its trademark horseshoe staircase, the château de Fontainebleau was the largest one built be François 1 in the 16 century.

For French history buffs, François 1 was prone to building chateaux all over the shop, leaving them empty and instead just moving the royal court (complete with furniture) around when he fancied a change of scenery.

For those planning a visit, the opening hours are a bit haphazard - depending on the time of the year - and it constantly seems to be undergoing renovations of one sort or another, but it's definitely a must see.

Fontainebleau also boasts one of Europe's premier business schools, INSEAD, and during the 1950s and 60s was home to Nato's HQ allied forces central Europe - until that is the former French president, Charles de Gaulle, took the country out of the organisation.

What really sets it apart though from many other towns in or around the French capital is its forest.

It's enormous - more than 250km2 and hugely popular with Parisians looking for a weekend break in the countryside while not wanting to face the dubious delights of spending huge chunks of Friday and Sunday evenings sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic.

At the moment of course there are guided crack-of-dawn tours to help those that are interested in identifying and collecting edible mushrooms. There are huge boulders for rock climbers to tackle, cycling pistes for the lycra-clad cross-country enthusiasts, bridle paths and a criss-crossing network of footpaths for the serious or even more humble rambler.

Throw in the enormous variety of fauna and flora, the stags currently roaring their night time rut and wild boar rampaging through the place, and you have an ideal cocktail of preserved nature just a 40-minute train journey from Paris.

The townsfolk go by the delightful name of Bellifontains or Bellifontaines and are well used to foreigners dawdling around the center of town with maps in hand and phrase books at the ready.

While their English might not be the most robust, they're a pretty friendly bunch with none of the infamous arrogance for which the French, and in particular those living in the capital are often accused.

And if all you want to do is sit outside a brasserie and watch the world go by or see what a "proper" French market is all about (three times a week) it's all here (and more) in living technicolor.

So there you go. L'Express has done its bit at telling the rest of France a little more about Fontainebleau, and now I've chipped in giving readers here a taste of what they can look forward to.

Just promise though that you won't all be descending on Philippe and depriving me of the joy of bagging the best cuts for myself.

By Johnny Summerton
Published: 10/14/2008

Money for Traveling - Calculating a Budget

Money for traveling, even if it is not the most important part of a trip, failing in planning it properly can leave us with some disgusting surprises, as running out of it or simply spending a lot more than were able to forecast. Let's take a look at how an appropriate budgeting should be done to know how much money for traveling do we need.

The first thing you need to take into account is the main spending such as flights and hotel. And there's something I want to say specially when speaking about hotels. Look, if you are going to a hostel, just don't worry, probably the cost of your stay will be exactly the one shown in the paper. But if you are going to a better hotel, it is almost possible that you are going to use some of the services they offer, or possibly there will exist obligatory extra charges that you didn't expect. Is it fair? Not probably, but here I don't try to complain, but just try to let you know how to organize your money for traveling provided the real facts.

In any case, once you have added all this, there's another thing you should do that many people do in the wrong way. Many people love to include food within the traveling costs. While it is a good idea to include it in the amount of money you need to have prepared for the trip, it is not good to assume that food is costing you extra money to take your holidays. You would be eating at home if not in your holiday, and in case the country were you are going is cheaper, you will be even saving money by easting there. To calculate the money for traveling for food, the best thing is to take a look at immigration websites.

Another cost you should take into account is the one for activities. Museums, nature activities, guided tours, etc. Whatever you will be doing there that has a cost. Write the total amount in your list of money for traveling, but when planning to save money for a trip think about which extra costs you will not be doing by being away. Going to the cinema, the disco, the bowling alley... Whatever you normally do in the period of time given for your holiday.

Finally, there's one last thing you should remember for planning your money for traveling. And this one shall not be included in your trip costs, of course. When you are away you will be consuming no energy at home, doing no telephone calls, spending no water, etc. All this costs can be taken away when you are planning the savings for a holiday.

Planning a trip to Europe or somewhere to hang around in the world? You'll get some help at Travel to Europe.

If you look for 80-90% discounted hotels at your destination, you'll find the deal at Free Travel Certificates.

By Dani Alonso
Published: 6/26/2008

Cheap Backpacking - A How to Guide

Some cheap backpacking tips to keep that wilderness adventure affordable.

Cheap backpacking is accomplished in two basic ways? The first is to cut the cost of the trip. The second way is to spend less on the gear you buy. Here are some tips for doing both of these.

Cheap Backpacking Gear

Don't bother with high-tech gear. Is it really important to have a super wicking poly-fiber t-shirt for when you're hiking? Probably not, especially if it is the middle of July. Any regular t-shirt bought on sale for a few dollars will work. For that matter, a cheap plastic emergency poncho can replace that $200 breathable/waterproof rain suit if rain is unlikely and it's warm out there. You might want to spend the money for better gear if you want lighter versions. In that case, you can still save money by putting the next two tips to use.

Look for the deals. An obvious tip, but easy to forget when you get excited about that shiny new equipment. Shoes and hiking boots in particular can be bought inexpensively if you watch for the sales. Apparently some people won't buy last year's styles, so those $90 shoes go on sale for $40. Look for the closeouts from online vendors and local shoe stores. Thought outdoor clothing is most likely to go on sale, tents, sleeping bags are sometimes half-priced when newer models come out.

Look for used gear. Though I would never buy used shoes, I've found that thrift stores have plenty of used jackets that are in great condition. I've even found decent lightweight hiking pants at times, as well as aluminum pans that are really light and some other backpacking equipment.

Make your own gear. I know of backpackers who sew their own backpacks and sleeping bags. That seems like too much work to me, and I'm not sure the savings would amount to much. But I have modified cheap pans for backpacking, made hats from old thermal shirt sleeves, and bivy sacks from plastic and duct tape. And now that I think about it, I did make a backpack once from an old aluminum frame and a duffel bag. It weighed less than any commercial frame pack for sale at the time.

Skip the expensive foods. You don't need freeze-dried meals to enjoy backpacking. Snacks are a good way to go, and if you really need those cooked meals, bring simple foods like instant rice.

Cheap Backpacking Trips

Plan your own backpacking excursions. Although guided hiking trips can be nice, they are expensive. Just plan your own. Choose a location, do your research online, and start looking for the cheapest plane tickets that will get you there.

Go to free places. Many people automatically think of national parks or other places that have fees when they think of a wilderness experience. But there are many places that are just as beautiful and don't charge anything. Try national forests with hiking trails, for example, or BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land, or state forests. One advantage of this approach - apart from the money savings - is that you'll likely find such area less crowded.

Find a location nearby. For many backpacking trips the cost of getting to the trailhead is the biggest expense. Isn't there someplace interesting to see within an hour or two of where you are? Visit those areas and you might save a lot of travel money.

Now put it all together. Plan your own trip to a free place close to home and outfit yourself with basic clothing bought at thrift stores and equipment bought on sale. That's cheap backpacking.

Find more tips on Cheap and Light Backpacking and to get the ebook "Ultralight Backpacking Secrets (And Wilderness Survival Tips)" for FREE, as well as photos, gear recommendations, and a new wilderness survival section.

By Steven Gillman Published: 9/20/2008

Tips for Traveling on a Budget

In economically challenging times, you don’t have to skip your vacation…just plan carefully and stick to these tips to maximize your travel budget.

By Anastacia Mott Austin

If you’re feeling the pinch in your travel budget these days, you’re not alone. People are looking at all kinds of ways in which to reduce their spending, and unfortunately for many that means giving up luxuries, including vacations and travel.

But it doesn’t have to. Granted, you may have to adjust your expectations for travel and be willing to make a few concessions, but with a few changes, you can still have a satisfying trip without feeling guilty about the expense.

Here are my favorite tips for reducing the cost of vacation travel:

Plan ahead! This is the number one rule for saving money on your vacation. If you plan ahead enough, you can save a ton of money in all of your travel accommodations. It’s those last-minute procrastinators who are often stuck paying more than premium prices for having waited too long to make reservations. These days, you just can’t afford to be one of them.

Travel to your favorite vacation spot during the off-season. Of course, for some spots that means arriving just in time for monsoon season or during the months of giant-bug infestation or whatnot. Avoid those spots. But some locations are just as lovely during their off-peak months, and you will get unbelievable deals on fares, hotels, and rental cars. Plus, your sightseeing adventures won’t be nearly as crowded.

If traveling by car, make sure your vehicle has been properly tuned-up and is in top-notch condition. There’s nothing less fun (and frequently more expensive) than having your car break down in some godforsaken location like Kearney, Nebraska and need some exotic part they don’t carry (this actually happened to me….apologies to Kearney for the "godforsaken" part, but gee whiz, it really was). Use your best gas-saving techniques like hypermiling and making sure your tires have enough air, etc. There’s probably nothing you can do about the extra weight you’re carrying in the trunk – you are on vacation, after all.

If renting a car, try to not be picky about it. Don’t choose their most popular car with all of the fancy bells and whistles you may not use anyway – decide that saving money is more important, and go with the economy deal. Shop around for the best rental deals in advance, so you’re not stuck having to take what they give you, and talk to the dealer before you agree to a contract. Explain exactly what you need, and you may be able to dump some of the charges for services you won’t use.

If flying, try to have some flexibility about departure and arrival times. This might be difficult if you’re traveling with young children, but if you aren’t, making a few concessions on your flight will be worth it to your wallet. Choose a budget, no-frills airline, be willing to make a couple of stop-overs (these flights tend to be cheaper than direct flights), eat before you get on the plane so you’re not forced to buy the $10 "snack pack," and if you’re really budget-motivated, offer to be bumped off of your flight if it’s full. Often this means you’ll get a free ticket for a later date, and usually you’ll get on the next flight going your way…but check in advance with the airlines just to be sure.

Check the travel sites’ (like Orbitz or Travelocity) special deals or last-minute fares section. They sometimes have spectacular deals that might fit into your travel parameters. You have to be quite flexible about travel time though, because you need to be ready to take off the next day with those last-minute savers. If you’re feeling daring, check out fare bidding sites like Priceline or similar sites….you might lose out, but if you plan enough in advance, you just might get an unheard-of deal. Some websites will help you gauge whether to buy a plane ticket now or wait until fares improve.

At your destination, choose a budget hotel (are you sensing a theme?). For some people, this defeats the entire purpose of a vacation, and having to meticulously plan and choose the cheapest options in every aspect feels more like work than vacation. If you’re such a person, it might be a good idea to "splurge" on one area, like the hotel, and be a penny-pincher everywhere else. But if the accommodations aren’t the important part of the trip for you, all you really need is a bed and a bathroom, right? Again, pre-planning is the key here. If you plan ahead you’ll be more likely to snag a deal. Conversely, you can also get a great deal by snatching up a discount at the very last minute. Try Lastminute.com for deals like this.

Consider scaling down the scope of your vacation, and plan on say, camping instead of staying in a hotel, or driving instead of flying (which will be cheaper if you’re not going too far).

Consider a "staycation," in which you stay home, but act as if you’re a visitor to your own town. Take the week off of work, take care of chores in advance, turn off the computer, and check the local visitor’s bureau for fun things to do on your stay-at-home trip.

Some of these tactics might seem undoable, like being able to fly off at the last minute, or being stranded at the airport because you got bumped off of a flight. But if your focus really is on saving money, some of these tips will not be difficult to put into practice, and may make the difference between being able to go on your vacation or having to do without.

By Buzzle Staff and Agencies
Published: 10/1/2008

Fun in Sunny or Snowy Breckenridge

Breckenridge have all the perks when it comes to vacations anytime of the year. So if you’re planning to go on a vacation, take a relaxing mountain getaway to Breckenridge, Colorado.

It’s just so refreshing to be somewhere totally different from where you always are, work or home. If you’re working too hard or just simply want to get away from your repetitive schedule, vacations are well deserved. Planning a mountain getaway would be very refreshing. A perfect place to go would be Breckenridge, Colorado, there are lots of activities you can do in the mountains all year round and they have close to perfect weather for outdoor activities. Hiking, mountain climbing, biking, fly fishing and whitewater rafting are just some of the activities you can enjoy there during summer and almost throughout fall, during winter, Breckenridge is home to skiing enthusiast, not surprising since Breckenridge has world class ski slopes.

During daytime, there are so many activities that you can do in Breckenridge, but if you’re more of a night person don’t feel down; when the sun goes down, the fun doesn’t stop. Breckenridge has an amazing nightlife that can entertain any city slicker, so you might want to save your breath for the night time fun. Breckenridge is perfect for vacationers who enjoy the nightlife since their restaurants stay open late. There are also bars and clubs, if that’s not your thing sports bars and disco’s. You can enjoy the live bands in the many restaurants and bars if you enjoy listening to live music. You can walk into another spot because they are more likely within walking distance from each other in Main Street, so hop from one hot spot to another. You will not run out of new places to go to every night of your stay in Breckenridge.

Breckenridge is a very family-friendly vacation town. If you’ve brought your kids along, there would be enough activities to go around. Get a closer look at nature and take your kids hiking and camping. During spring, different species and colors of wildflowers are in bloom, so take advantage of this; pack a picnic and name as much wildflowers as you can. Summer is always perfect to be active outdoors; the weather is comfortable, not too hot or too humid. You can always plan a new adventure each day; you can go fly fishing, golfing, hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting or horseback riding. Doesn’t that sound like fun? Vacations can get filled with too much activity that you burn yourself out and you’ll end up taking a vacation form your vacation. Take a time out to catch your breath. Visit the local art gallery and boutique shops. Breckenridge has its own chocolate factory that of course makes its own ice cream and an amazing cookie store. Treat yourselves to ice cream and cookies.

Very popular main attractions when you’re in Breckenridge during winter are skiing and snowboarding. But if your kids are too little to learn how to ski you can still enjoy the snow with them, nobody is ever too old for a snowball fight, make snow angels or snow forts. You can even make a snowman to get the Christmas spirit going early. Always remember to keep warm and make sure to pack some snacks and hot choco. You can also rent a snowmobile or go snowshoeing. If you want something a little more active, visit the local ice skating rink, you can rent skates if you forgot yours.

Don’t worry about where you’ll stay in Breckenridge; looking for a perfect place to stay with your family is never a problem. You can choose from the many Breckenridge condominiums, hotels, townhouses and vacation homes according to what you need. So take your family to Breckenridge, Colorado and have one of the most unforgettable vacations you will ever have, maybe even a start of annual family vacation tradition. Ask anybody who has been there because they keep coming back and so will you.

By Chris Cook
Published: 10/6/2008

Travel Insurance - Don't Go Abroad Without It

If you are considering traveling abroad, review your health insurance policy to see if you are covered in other countries. If not, purchase a travel insurance policy.

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Your choice of a travel insurance policy is probably the most important decision you will make in planning your holiday. You will enjoy peace of mind on your vacation knowing that any unforeseen circumstances, such as a hospital stay due to sickness or accident will be taken care of.

In addition, while many travelers have health insurance, it sometimes does not cover them outside of their network or outside of the United States. Most medical plans will not cover medical expenses abroad, which is why travel insurance coverage is vital to avoid financial disaster. Always check the details of your insurance coverage before you travel. Additionally, with out the proper medical insurance, you will not have a say on where you will be treated if you were in an accident.

Generally, comprehensive travel insurance policy costs 5 to 7 percent of the price of your trip. Your policy may also provide reimbursement for lost luggage, some degree of medical evacuation insurance, accidental death coverage, medical expenses, personal liability, cancellation, loss of baggage and theft. Your policy should also include all the details of how to make a claim.

Not all travel insurance plans are created equal. The cost varies from company and policy to policy. Policies may be purchased for individual trips or as an annual policy for all trips taken in the year of insurance. If you purchase an annual travel insurance policy, it will cover you for one year from the start date you choose. In some cases, it might be your best option to purchase a trip cancellation waiver and a third party travel insurance policy.

Credit card companies usually provide what is called travel accident insurance, which covers accidents but not incidents of serious illness. When you travel abroad, you should always consider buying insurance that includes medical care.

If you are willing to assume a financial risk (the cost of your trip), you can probably forego insurance for your domestic travel. Since 9/11, many are looking to travel insurance to safeguard their trip against any unforeseen terrorist attacks at their destination. Traveling abroad without insurance can be risky and impose long-term financial hardships if an accident or illness occurred.

By David Chandler