Sunny Winter Holidays at a Jamaica Villa

If, like many people, you begin counting down the months to summer when the winter's just begun, perhaps you need to start planning a warm weather holiday away from the cold in a Jamaica Villa. Heading to this charming island (where the average temperature tends to be around 30 degrees Celsius) will chase your winter blues away, and you will be spoilt for choice with all the fun things you can enjoy under the warmth of the Caribbean sun. Here are a couple of the key activities to consider taking part in once you leave the chilly winter behind and arrive on the joyous 'Jamrock'.

Watersports at Aquasol Theme Park

A definite antidote for the winter blues equals going to the Aquasol Water Theme Park! Conveniently located at the Walter Fletcher Beach, in the heart of Montego Bay, Aquasol is probably no more than a stone's throw from your gorgeous Jamaica Villa. So slip on those flip flops and head down to the beach. At Aquasol you can sunbathe (of course) on the white sands, go snorkelling in the clear, warm waters, or opt for one of many other water activities available. Try the water trampolines, go jet skiing, wave running, kayaking or take either a banana boat or a glass-bottom boat ride. If you don't fancy any of these (for some strange reason) you can always go for tennis or beach volley ball. If you're on holiday with the kids, don't worry! There's a well-equipped children's playground to keep them happy.

J-J-Jerk Chicken

Now, it may seem like a given, but, just in case you didn't know, jerk chicken is so popular in Jamaica, it's almost like a staple (really). In all seriousness, no holiday staying in a Jamaica Villa would be complete without trying this fabulous local delicacy. If you aren't a fan of chicken, they 'jerk' just about everything else too - pork, goat, shrimp, beef, sausage, tofu (yes tofu) you name it! The key ingredient is the hot, spice laden rub in which the meat is marinated. The meat is then smoked using different techniques to produce a number of distinctive tastes. Now popularised across the globe, thanks to the Jamaican Diaspora, jerk chicken is believed to have come about in Jamaica when the Maroons introduced African meat cooking techniques, which later evolved in conjunction with unique local ingredients and spices.

Even if your eating habits aren't that adventurous, believe us when we tell you that sampling some Jamaican jerk chicken will add some extra heat to your holiday! Wash it down with some coconut water straight from the nut and you'll start to understand why a holiday in a Jamaica Villa is top of everyone's list when it comes to an idyllic getaway.

Why A Leisure Resort Is Perfect For Your Family

Fortunately, this is why choosing to stay at a leisure resort may be the solution to planning a perfect getaway.

Leisure resorts are designed with the purpose of promoting leisure and relaxation. The people that manage these resorts have spent much time and effort into making sure that all bases are covered. That leaves the only thing left for the guests to do is enjoy.

Many leisure resorts cater to the special needs of families. Families are composed of all different ages of people so the opportunity for fun and relaxation has to be available to meet the different needs. Many people will find that these resorts have thought this out so well, that there is not even a need to leave and go elsewhere for entertainment.

Guests at this type of establishment will find that there are many options for fun for an entire family to enjoy. Many have different activities throughout the day based on different age groups. Activities can be found for the youngest in your group and all the way up to the oldest. Some are activities that require a parent to participate while others encourage independent play. These activities are also designed with safety in mind so there is not the need to stress about your child getting lost or hurt.

Many of these resorts also have options for childcare which allows the grownups to enjoy a quiet dinner or time to participate in some of the activities slated for adults. The childcare centers are generally well staffed with competent caregivers that love children. This also provides your little one with a chance to mingle and socialize with others in their age group.

Since there is usually eating areas on the premises of the resorts, there is no need to travel outside of the place looking for places to eat. There may be a variety of different restaurants or eating areas specializing in different atmospheres. Some can be more catered to children, while others may be more formal. Live entertainment is also an added benefit that is commonly available to guests. Entertainment has also been planned out with options that are suitable for everyone.

One of the nicest benefits is that the vacation can be purchased as a package deal. These packages can include such things as meals being included, special events and entertainment options. That leaves you free to just kick back and enjoy without constantly taking your wallet out to pay.

Leisure resorts can offer a family a much needed break and time to relax. Having everything all in one place makes things convenient and easy. Easy access to entertainment, food, accommodations and activities all in one location can take the stress out of planning. What is left after that is nothing but pure relaxation.

Bhutan Treks – The Brokpa People And Their Legends

Eastern Bhutan is arguably one of the world's most beautiful regions - and it is home to the culturally unique Brokpa people, who live in Merak and Sakten. For almost two decades, Bhutan treks in that part of the country were not permitted by the government for undisclosed reasons - rumours alleged the desire to protect the Yeti - but the regions of Merak and Sakten are now open again. Bhutan treks there offer the truly memorable opportunity to meet these wonderful people.

Ethnically Unique

The Brokpas speak Sharchop, a different language to that spoken elsewhere in Bhutan - more noticeable to visitors on Bhutan treks, they dress uniquely. Brokpa people are easily recognised by their woven red jackets, often detailed with stitched animals, and curious black yak hats. These hats have five spidery legs, designed to channel rainwater away from the wearer's head and body. As befitting the name Brokpa, which can be translated to mean 'nomad' or 'herder', the people remain semi-nomadic yak herders, relying on the animal for clothing, food and transport. For anyone with an interest in minority ethnic groups and the preservation of traditional ways of living in an increasingly modern, homogenous world, Bhutan treks in Merak and Sakten are a must.

Aum Jono and the King's Demand

Like many Himalayan peoples, the Brokpa have a story of their origin. They moved to Bhutan many hundreds of years ago - according to them, this is because they once lived in Tibet, until a conflict with a ruler. This king demanded that his people remove the top of a mountain because it blocked the sun, covering his palace in shadow. One woman, Aum Jono, who did not think this ridiculous order should be obeyed, told her people that it was far easier to remove a head than a mountain-top. The Brokpas agreed. After killing the king, Aum Jono led them to safety and prosperity in eastern Bhutan. She is now revered as a protecting deity, with a festival held in her honour.

Brokpas and the Yeti

Anyone planning to go on Bhutan treks will surely have heard of the Yeti. To the Brokpas this creature is called Megay, and yak herders to this day report encountering Megay in high, thickly forested altitudes, typically when they have pursued a straying yak. According to their remarkable tales, the Megay consumes bamboo shrubs, is white or light red in colour, and smells of garlic. The Megay is not a curiosity, as it is to Westerners, but a guardian deity of remote mountainous regions - and the Brokpas accordingly treat it with respect.

Koh Samui Beach Villas Rental On Koh Samui Island, Thailand

Koh Samui Island lies in the Gulf of Thailand off the eastern coast Thailand's southern provinces. Surrounded by clear seas and golden beaches, Samui is a breathtaking holiday destination. The island has always been a pinnacle in SE Asia for contemporary, modern beach villa architecture and the design quality of recently built villas continues to build upon that reputation.

Luxury beach villas are dotted around the 60km coastline of Samui and the majority of these villas are in quieter, tranquil locations, away from the touristic centers of the island's north east. However, a good choice of beach villas is still found in the busy north east of the island.

Due to the high cost of beach land, most private Koh Samui beach villas are large properties with at least four bedrooms. Two and three bedroom villas are still available though most of these smaller villas are part of exclusive beach villa developments and resorts. Again, there are exceptions to this rule and if you book early enough you should be able to find a suitable two or three bedroom property.

The design of most Koh Samui beach villas is quite similar with a large pavilion towards the rear of the property and several smaller pavilions build between the beach and the rear pavilion.

Beach quality can vary around the island, so make sure you ask questions about quality of sand, depth of water and height of seasonal tides before you book.

Beach villa rental costs in Koh Samui are relatively low when compared to beach villas in other tropical SE Asian destinations. A luxurious 2-bedroom might cost you around $500 - $800 USD per night whereas a 5-bedroom would set you back about $800 - $1500 USD per night. For those on an unlimited budget, a truly luxurious seven or eight bedroom villa could cost upwards of $7000 USD per night.

The Great Debate: Picnic Baskets Vs. Picnic Totes

You’ve been on a picnic before, right? You may have taken a large spread with you, complete with all of your favorite picnic dishes, from ham and cheese sandwiches, to potato salad, and sweet tea. Do you remember what you carried your food and utensils in? You may have carried them in a picnic basket. Picnic baskets are a classic way to pack for your journey to your favorite outdoor dining spot. Nowadays, picnickers have a variety of picnic baskets that they can choose from. So, the next time you’re picnicking, will you choose a picnic basket or a picnic tote?

Picnic baskets and picnic totes both have the same general function. They keep your food safe and clean, they keep your utensils clean and organized, and they make transporting your meal easier. Just what is the difference between picnic baskets and picnic totes?

Picnic baskets come in two different styles. There is the classic picnic basket (Think “Wizard of Oz”), which is made of either rattan or bamboo. This type of basket is lightweight, while still managing to be durable. Unfortunately, it can be uncomfortable to carry a classic basket if you are walking a long distance to your picnic destination. There are also more modern picnic baskets, which are made of a polyester material. These baskets are often fully insulated so that they can keep your food and beverages cold. Best of all, these baskets usually zip, which helps to keep your utensils and your food germ-free.

Picnic totes are different from picnic baskets in that they look much more like a traditional tote bag that you might transport your books in. The placement of their straps makes totes much easier to carry. You can find picnic totes that offer enough accessories so that four people can enjoy a picnic together. Like picnic baskets, many of these totes will already include your silverware and cups, so that you never need to bring your dinnerware from home out into the wilderness.

Some totes are made exclusively for wine, or for wine and cheese. These totes keep your picnic completely insulated so you can relax and sip on a chilled glass of white wine. Wine and cheese totes aren’t the only totes that will keep your food cold, though. There are picnic totes available online that will keep your entire meal, as well as your beverages, at the perfect temperature.

Visit The Royal Mattancherry Dutch Palace

Cochin is an enchanting tourist destination of Kerala where tourists come from far and wide. Also known as Kochi, this city is well-known for its history, culture, traditions, tea, coffee and spice plantations, palace, beach and backwaters. There is so much to enjoy and experience on Cochin Tour.

This beautiful city is popularly known as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’. It also serves as an important seaport of the country. Located in the Eravikulam district of the state it is a picturesque place where you can enjoy the glory of Mother Nature at its best. Its tea, coffee and spice gardens are among the famous attractions of Cochin which promise to leave you completely mesmerized.

On your tour to Cochin do visit the historic and beautiful Mattancherry Palace which is also known as Dutch Palace. Located at a distance of only 10 km from Cochin, this palace is a fascinating attraction. This splendid structure was built by the Portuguese in the year 1555 and was gifted to the erstwhile king of Kochi. Later the Dutch established their supremacy over the kingdom. At that time they renovated the palace and named it as the Dutch Palace in the year 1663. Today when you visit this royal structure you will be mesmerized to see its beautiful interiors, paintings and a variety of things reflecting Hindu art.

Visit the Coronation hall on the second floor to treat your eyes with the arresting paintings (frescoes) adorning the walls. These paintings display the scenes from the great Hindu epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata. Another attraction of the Dutch Palace is a special area dedicated to paintings based on the themes of Tretayug ( from Putra Kameshthi Yagya to Rama’s return to Ayodhya after Lanka’s war). These paintings reflect the finest examples of Kerala’s mural paintings having their own unique style. The palace also houses a variety of royal articles such as costumes, palanquin lined with ivory, turbans, etc. No wonder a visit to Dutch Palace will transport you back in time to the era of raja-maharajas.

Also visit the temple dedicated to ‘Pazhayannu Bhagavati (the Goddess of the Kochi Royal family) inside the palace complex. The shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Krishna are also there in the palace complex.

Beautiful Egypt

With Egypt family holidays becoming increasingly popular there are many first time visitors to the country out there, this article looks at several top attractions of the country for those who know very little about this fantastic country and its ancient history.

Topping the list, and the one that many people will recognise, are the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. These impressive monuments have come to represent much of what the outside world sees when they think of Egypt, and for a good reason. The pyramids form some of the greatest tombs on the planet, their perfect peaks soaring up into the sky. The Sphinx is more of an enigma, with archaeologists arguing to this day over its purpose.

Next on the list, another ancient structure, are the magical temples dedicated to Ramsis II and his wife Nevertari. The temples were built in the belief they could grant immortality and they're some of the most beautiful examples of ancient structures in the country. The other truly remarkable story behind these structures is that they were moved in their entirety in the late 20th century to avoid flooding in the area they were originally located.

Moving on, and its another icon of Egypt, is the mighty river Nile. Not only is it one of the longest and largest rivers on the planet but it also makes for an excellent cruise experience! The Nile has been at the heart of Egypt for thousands of years, with ancient sites set all along the length of the river. The river also houses an abundance of life, along with its impressive history, and you can see everything from the fantastic bird life to sleek Nile crocodiles.

Next up, and one of the sites you can visit from the river, is the beautiful Valley of the Kings. This sacred valley houses the tombs of the Pharaohs and because of this has some of the most incredibly decorated structures in Egypt. Inside the tombs many fantastic treasures have been discovered including the famous mummy Tutankhamun.

Finally we have a more modern jewel and it's the countries capital, Cairo, a fantastic centre of culture. Cairo's a place you wouldn't want to miss and luckily most trips to Egypt will feature some time in the capital. The city is packed with fantastic markets, brilliant culture and amazing history. The city also features several fantastic museums that help enrich any trips you may be thinking of making to the ancient sites.

Thailand - Tailor-Made of Honeymooners

Thailand provides honeymooners with experience they cherish all their life. The place would leave the people thrilled and enchanted, they never feel like leaving the country. One of the favourite places of honeymooners, Thailand offers an unending line of attractions.

Thailand is a destination of enchanting sights. This beautiful land is favoured by honeymooners for its exotic landscapes, beaches, nature parks, temples, luxury hotels, restaurants etc. The country has its own unique culture and the rich history has endowed it with the monuments of significance. A place of unforgettable attractions, Thailand offers something for everyone, and for the honeymooners, it is just fantastic.

Some prominent Thai destinations are as under:

Bangkok: Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, is the first destination of most honeymooners in the country. The city is perfect to begin your Thai experience. Some of the beautiful places in Bangkok are Dusit Zoo, Erawan Shrine, Ganesha Shrine, Temple of Dawn, Wat Phra Kaewa and Temple of Golden Buddha. Your Thailand trip is incomplete if you haven't visited these places.

Phuket: Phuket, known as 'pearl of the south' is among one of the most visited destinations in Thailand. The first thing which comes to one's mind while touring Phuket beaches. Patong, Karon and Kata are three most popular beaches in Phuket. The place is known for its fantastic nightlife, hair-raising adventures and fast-paced shopping.

Pattaya: Pattaya is considered as one of the best places in Thailand for honeymoon holidays. The place is acclaimed all across the world for its idyllic beaches, frenzied shopping, fun-filled nightlife and thrilling adventures. Some prominent Pattaya attractions are Crocodile Show, Exotic Plants, Strange Rocks, Pattaya Elephant Town, Sriracha Tiger Zoo etc.

Koh Samui: Koh Samui has a large number of beautiful beaches and luxurious hotels where the honeymooners can enjoy the amazing beauty of the white sand beaches along the coastlines. Travelers can play a range of watersports in Samui and interesting thing is that you won't find crowd. You can get good services over here at affordable rates.

Koh Chang: This is a marine national park which attracts thousands of visitors worldwide. Here, you can appreciate the pure gifts of nature. Koh Chang has everything nature has to offer and is tailor-made for families who want to have a quiet and peaceful holidays. At this particular place you can take a bunglow on rent in order to have a comfortable stay during your whole vacation.

Chiang Mai: Chiangmai is the place of temples. You can visit the oldest to the noblest ones, including the Wat Suan Dok, which holds the ashes of Chiang Mai's former Royal Family members. In another chapel lies one of Thailand's largest icons in metal, a 500-year old bronze Buddha. You can also visit the temple compound where the divine Lai Kham chapel is located.

Krabi: A tropical paradise, Krabi, is a must-visit for a visitor in Thailand. It is applauded for fantastically beautiful palm-fringed beaches, refreshing spas and strange looking limestone caves, studded with stalactites and stalagmites. There are several spa centers here providing refreshing, rejuvenating service.

Sydney: One Of The Most Beautiful Cities Under The Clouds

Sydney happens to be the most urbanized part of Australia. As it was noted to be the state capital of the New South Wales, it also is the largest and most inhabited city in Australia. It houses the Sydney opera house in the northeastern part, the Sydney town hall in the south, and the sky tower in the center. But we all know that Sydney is known as the home of fish and chips, the Ferries, Kylie Minogue, and that dentist from Nemo. Now, what to do when in Sydney? There's a lot actually.

Let's start with the sky tower. The sky tower is actually known in Australia as the AMP Tower or the AMP Centrepoint. Its construction started in the 70's and completed in 1981. As a member of the World Federation of Great Towers, it is fitting and proper that they have allocated a viewing deck in order to see a bird's eye view of the city among the clouds. Standing at 164 feet, the main observation deck houses 18 binoculars to get a 360 degree-view of Sydney. You'll be able to see Sydney Harbour Bridge, Botany Bay, the Blue Mountains, and yes, include in the list the Pacific Ocean. Amazing, isn't it?

Include an Oz-trek adventure to complete your adventurous spirit. The breathtaking view for the tower creates a relaxing aura amidst the laid-back country like Australia even in its busiest city. The Oz-trek adventure associated with your view at the tower is a virtual-reality ride across Australia where you'll be welcomed with its history and culture. Experience Australia with surround sound in a 180-degree cinema screen and heart pounding real motion seating and you'll live through 4D movies alternate reality. You'll be able to appreciate more of Australia with this adventure. You'll be able to go into a trance-inducing ride as you navigate the country virtually.

While you're at the most sought-after tourist attraction in Sydney, complete your adventure with the Sydney Tower Skywalk. The Skywalk is like literally walking on the roof of Sydney. You are to tread a glass-flooring with the skyguides commenting on the colorful view provides insights as you see Sydney at 268 metres above sea level. The tower itself is double the height of the Sydney Harbor Bridge, and yes, it is the same height as the Eiffel Tower! This experience is best for those height-fearful individuals as they feel liberation with the security of being among the clouds. This adventure is known for its safety. Those who take on the adventure are given safety-harnesses that is attached to external walkways at all times allowing full view with the comfort of assurance. So, it is safe and what a fun!

Sydney may be the busiest among the laid-back nature of the only country with its own continent. The attraction it offers is an experience of a lifetime. The internet is oozing with commentaries among those who have experienced it already. It never failed to meet expectations and the actual experience exceeds it. It is about time that you take on that experience as well.

The Pleasant Surprises Offered By A Europe Tour Package

A Europe tour package could be fun filled, thrilling, enthralling, exciting, serene and most importantly memorable. Whether you are someone who can splurge just at the mere mention of a luxury vacation or someone who wants to take a break with family but within the limitations of a budget, a Europe tour package can indeed be an ideal option for you. The 8 day, 7 night package is the most popular one but, there are tourists who opt for Europe tour package which extends over a fortnight. The beauty of Europe lies in its diversity. There is plenty of history to be explored, just as there is plenty of natural flora and fauna. You can soak in the sun and sand on the beautiful beaches and also roam the countryside. Here are some of the interesting things you can expect in the Europe tour package.

The Italian and French charm:

A lot of people dream about visiting the Eiffel Tower at least once in their lifetime. But France has got a lot more to offer. Whether it is the Glass Pyramid and the Louvre Museum or the Disneyland, the capital city of France is a wonderland in itself. You can visit the smaller villages like Eze and eastern cities like Monte Carlo, famous for the villas, casinos and the grand prix. In Italy you will love the views of Florence, the sculptures and the masterpieces, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and wonders of medieval architecture as well. The romantic city of Venice has been a favourite of couples since ages, with its canals, architecture and gondolas. The history of Rome doesn't need any introduction either and if you want to see the charm that has been transferred across centuries, this is surely the place.

Switzerland and the snow capped mountains:

It is called the playground of Europe. A Europe tour package wouldn't be complete without skiing on the Alps or the delightful scenic journeys of Switzerland. A visit to Zurich will rejuvenate you like never before with spectacular mountains, Ice Cave, Rhine falls and breathtaking glaciers.

United Kingdom and the surrounding wonders:

For a lot of people, a visit to London is more than just a vacation. Britain to many is still the mark of royalty and the beautiful streets, the richness of the ambience and the beautiful palaces will do nothing to harm the reputation which the country has earned over the centuries. While London will also offer you the buzz of a modern day city, the Trafalgar Square, Westminster Palace, Tower of London and St. Paul's Cathedral will ensure that you have a healthy dose of history as well. A Europe tour package however doesn't end there as you can enjoy pleasurable cruise dinners, shopping at Amsterdam and sightseeing at the beautiful quaint city of Brussels. Whether you love symphonies or opera, European cuisines or historic structures, your menu for the tour will have everything.

London To Dubai: A Complete Guide

London is one of the leading tourist attractions of the world. It has world famous parks, museums and palaces of architectural and historical significance. The world famous British museum, Victoria and Albert Museum, deal with subjects like science and history. There are many fascinating places to visit in London, witness to epic events down the pages of history. Westminster Abbey is one of the greatest architectural wonders in London. Many famous people like Sir Isaac Newton and King Henry III were buried here. Birmingham Palace and Kensington Palace have a great sense of history about them and are beautifully constructed.

Besides history, London is well known the world over for its theatres, which are the home of musicals, shows, ballet performances and opera. London was recognized as the "World's leading destination" at the 2010 World Travel Awards, beating the popular holiday destinations of New York and Sydney.

Dubai is another great tourist attraction. The kind of rapid development that Dubai has seen in recent years has made it one the major tourist attractions of the world. It is aptly called the 'City of Gold' due to its flourishing gold market. It has one of the biggest shopping extravaganzas in the world, the popular Annual Shopping Festival. Dubai's skyline is marked by huge sky scrapers, with the Burj Khalifa being the tallest building in the world. There are plenty of flights from London to Dubai to choose from. Here are a few options to choose from.

London to Dubai: A Look at Flight Options

You need the best deals when flying from London to Dubai, two of the most historic, adventurous and fun packed cities of the world. Travel experts can help with their knowledge of the culture and tourist attractions of the two cities. They can also help you get the best deals for airline tickets and hotel reservations.

Aer Lingus connects Dubai directly from the UK and ranks among the best options. EasyJet and RyanAir are the two major airlines that also connect Dubai to the European countries. British Airways offers not stop flights to and from Dubai. The Emirates is another airline with flights from London to Dubai and back. Virgin Atlantic flies from Heathrow, London to various destinations in the Middle East.

Travel experts can help you not only choose the best destinations and the best time to visit them, but can also help with discounts and special offers for flights.

Cheap Flights from London to Dubai

Flying from London to Dubai, the two famous cities can be quite a challenge for a tourist. Get in touch with a trusted travel expert for air tickets and hotel reservations. Here are a few tips to help you with your travel plans.

1.Airline coupons and vouchers are essential for getting cheap tickets

2.Book tickets when there is less density of passengers travelling. You are more likely to qualify for cheap tickets during the off-season.

3.Airlines do not advertise immediately after updating their prices. Buying ticket at this time can help you save on costs immensely.

Disney World Ticket Prices and Options

For you to experience the wondrous magic of Disney; you will need tickets. These serve as your passes in order to get into the theme parks and other attractions. The tickets can be bought online and you must be sure that the sellers are authorized. Disney World ticket prices are basically similar. They are non-transferable and are encrypted with the owner's fingerprints and so they cannot easily sell their own.

There are different ticket options that you can choose from if you want to visit Disney World. Each ticket type offers various options that have to do on how and how long you want to stay and have fun in Disney. Here is a Disney World ticket prices overview which details how each ticket option is different from the other.

Base ticket- this ticket type allows guests to be able to visit and explore one theme park a day. From a one day visit to a ten day escapade in Disney World, buyers are sure to be able to choose a ticket based on their preference as to their desired length of visit. However, this ticket does not allow access to water parks, Disney quest and Disney Wide World of Sports Complex. Prices of base tickets usually range from $80 to $250, depending on the length of visit. One useful tip is that you can save a lot more if you buy tickets good for more than a day; instead of buying tickets singly for each time you want to go to a certain theme park.

Hopper ticket- this ticket serves as an additional perk for the base ticket. It is valid for all the four theme parks on the same day. It costs $52 more than your base ticket whether for children or adults. It is quite costly; but if you really want to visit other theme parks in a day; then a hopper ticket is the way to go.

Water Park Fun ticket- this allows guests to visit a certain theme park for about three to six times plus an option for other entertainment or recreation venue. Again, you have to add another $52 for this option.

No Expiration- this ticket has to be bought together with the base ticket. It allows guests to utilize their unused days since it will not expire. As a rule, all tickets expire if not used within 14 days unless it has been tagged with no expiration.

Annual Passes- these tickets entitle the guests more privileges and perks. They can visit all four theme parks in one day. They can have free parking or can make use of the transport system. These tickets sold for about $500-$600.

Before buying a tickets, make sure that you have reviewed well all Disney World ticket prices. Moreover, read the coverage of each ticket and choose which suits your preferences the most. Buying a ticket with privileges that does not fit your wants can possibly ruin your visit. Lastly, see to it that the ticket prices are inclusive of tax since you do not want to be tricked into buying a falsely cheap ticket.

Choosing the Finest Walt Disney World Vacation Packages

Are you and your family planning to go on a trip to Disneyland? Are you searching for Walt Disney world vacation packages which will guarantee that you will have the best Disneyland experience? If you are, then it is highly imperative that you choose a particular vacation deal that will certainly make your trip pleasurable and worth-remembering. Then again, with all the deals and package being offered out there, how will you know that you are picking the finest package deal? This article offers some helpful pieces of advice that will assist you in selecting the best Disney vacation package.

First of all, when planning a tour in Walt Disney, it is highly advisable that you choose a certain time which is considered to be off the peak season. Remember that it is during peak season that prices of vacation packages tend to be sky high. Also, you cannot expect package prices to be very cheap. Therefore, you must have a planned, estimated budget that you are willing to shell out before you go looking for a certain package deal.

Once you already have your budget in mind, then you can now go searching for Walt Disney world vacation packages that will suit your finances. You can visit online sources for a variety of vacation package deals that you can choose from. There are also travel agencies that will arrange every single detail of the trip for you. All you have to do is to book your chosen package.

In choosing a certain vacation package online or from travel agencies, you have to take into consideration the coverage of such deal. Will it include comfortable accommodation, transfer and tours of other Disney theme parks? Is it inclusive of meals and rides? Before you settle for a particular package, make sure that you have understood the coverage of your deal. Sometimes, trying to go overly cheap can compromise the quality of your stay. That's why the package you choose has to be reasonable and perfectly suited to your desired budget.

Another useful tip is to settle for package deals that will offer stay to hotels that are quite close to a particular theme park. Why? This is because you would not want to spend too much time travelling to and from your hotel to your theme park destination. Be wary of hotels offering temptingly cheap package deals since there might be a trade-off. It can either be that the hotel is too far from the theme park or the accommodation, if not excellent, is not comfortable enough for you and your family.

Planning a trip to Disneyland entails a lot of considerations. If you want your tour to be amazing for the whole family then select a fine vacation deal. Choosing Walt Disney world vacation packages plays a vital role in ensuring that you have the best once in a lifetime experience. Therefore, it is very important that you carefully pick a package deal that is sure to make your trip worthwhile and definitely the best.

Tag : travel,Disney World,vacation

Rome Shopping: Paintings

Rome has lured the best artists from all around the world for thousands of years. When surrounded by so much incredible inspiration, the works up and coming artists create while in Rome are naturally amazing. Should you want to snap up a local piece, indulge in a little art collecting, you can easily do so and it won't break the bank either.

Oil Paintings, Watercolors, traditional 'fine art', contemporary pieces, portraits and even caricatures are all drawn, painted and sold on the streets of Rome. No traipsing round private galleries and extortionate prices here in Rome, it's literally on your doorsteps.

A great alternative to a typical souvenir, a painting bought on the streets of Rome makes a fantastic gift, for either yourself or the people back home. Its guaranteed to be unique, and it can sit on your wall, pride of place, as a permanent reminder of your experience in the Eternal City. Who knows, you may even stumble across a future Michelangelo!

The best places to buy such paintings are well entrenched on the tourists trail - but don't let this put you off. These areas are just as popular with locals as they are with tourists, artists like to sell in popular places as they can't survive on art alone.

The Piazza Navona is where you'll find many artists selling watercolors and oil paintings of the views, sights and daily life in Rome. Prices are very reasonable, and everything is negotiable. Generally speaking, watercolors are cheaper than oils, and the larger the painting the more expensive. You can pick up an amazing watercolor, big enough to hang on a wall, but small enough to fit in your luggage, for around €8. Oil Paintings can be significantly more expensive, in the region of €30 to €75. Don't be put off by the asking price - which can be more that €100, you're expected and encouraged to negotiate and haggle. You'll be buying direct from the artist and should you buy more than one painting from the same artist you can get an even bigger discount.

At the top of the Spanish Steps you'll find many a local artist working the canvas. Here, like at the Piazza Navona, you'll find oils and watercolors of many sights and views of Rome. But you'll also find artists prepared to draw or paint your portrait - or caricature should you fancy a laugh! Prices again depend on size and materials used, larger equals more expensive and you have several options regarding materials. From a charcoal drawing, to a watercolor. Colour portraits are more expensive, paints are more expensive that pastels and so on. Negotiate is again encouraged, but if you want a portrait of yourself, haggle before you sit down.

A painting by a local roman artist is a great alternative to your typical souvenirs or postcard. A unique item, you'll be buying direct from the artist so you can assured your money is going to support a talented artist. Take your time, find something you like, and be prepared to negotiate and you'll walk away with a great work of art.

Tag : leisure,travel,rome,shopping,paintings

Incredible Oriental Honeymoon Destinations In Thailand

Thailand is a great choice for an incredible honeymoon destination. Its capital Bangkok is a city that houses the rich culture of past and the modern way of lives, jungles with amazing wildlife and nomadic hill tribes and pristine waters of the Andaman Sea for a variety of destinations couples can choose from.

Your honeymoon is unlike any other trip or holiday you usually go on. It is a once in a lifetime trip that marks the end of a phase of your life and the beginning of a new. There you are with the one you have chosen to be with for the rest of your life - come what may. Your honeymoon deserves to be special in every way so that it remains unforgettable and cherish-able for a lifetime. To make it unique, you can think of something different that you haven't done yet, some place you haven't seen - see it for the first time with that special someone.

Thailand is a favorite destination for many couples looking for a very special and unique experience. This South East Asian country has it all - luxurious destinations, breathtaking scenic beauty, idyllic hideouts filled with solitude, cities teeming with life and more. No wonder travellers from all around the world flock to Thailand. Its white sandy beaches and jungles rich with wildlife, flea-markets and shopping malls, luxury hotels and beach cottages and many more never fails to charm travellers.

If you are interested in taking your partner to this spell binding destination, knowing some facts about the place will help you plan easily. They are:

* Thailand has different seasons across the country, the rainy season is from May to October.
* The weather is hot all year round.
* If you and your partner are both British passport holders, you don't need Visa to stay up to 30 days in Thailand.
* Time difference is +7 hours GMT.
* English is widely spoken while the main language is Thai with some speaking Chinese.
* Thailand's currency is the Thai Baht.

Based on the choices of destinations available, Thailand can be broadly divided into 3 regions - Bangkok, Northern Thailand and Phuket area. Each region offers unique experience that will surely stay with you for years to come. A city at the heart of the country that houses the country's rich past and the modern way of lives or a hideout in the heart of real Thailand with amazing wildlife and nomadic hill tribes or next to the pristine waters of the Andaman Sea; you can honeymoon at one of these places.

Bangkok will immerse you in its rich tradition and metropolitan lifestyle. You can stay at a hotel the Bangkok Marriott Resort and Spa or Centara Grand or the Mandarin Oriental or the Royal Orchid Sheraton and other luxury hotels that are easily affordable. The floating Markets on the Chao Phraya River, the sacred temple of Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho, the Grand Palace and the famous Bridge on the River Kwai (out of town) are some places you shouldn't miss. Bangkok also has a great night life and delicacies for a non-stop amusement.

For a quieter and more idyllic time you can head to one of the Northern Thailand destinations and connect with the real Thailand, as travellers say. If you are a nature lover, you are in for a huge treat. Trek through the jungle on an elephant and discover the incredible wildlife. Visit the nomadic hill tribes who still live like they used to 700 years ago. Take a trip to the famous Night Bazaar at Chiang Mai and the morning market in Mae Hong Son. Visit the beautiful Doi Suthep temple on the hilltop overlooking the city of Chiang Mai and take a boat ride on the famous Mekong River. You can stay at Mandarin Oriental Hotel that is located amidst rice paddies, tropical woodlands and exotic plantations, a true luxury hideaway resort.

If palm-fringed, white sandy beaches, secluded coves and long sweeping bays is your idea of a romantic hideaway, then head to Phuket. There are luxury hotels that offer great stay, perfect for couples including the Banyan Tree Phuket, Evasion Phuket, Le Meridien Phuket Beach and more. A stay at the Banyan Tree offers verdant gardens and white sands. Khao Lak, Krabi, Koh Lanta, Phi Phi Islands, Similan Islands, Surin Islands, Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan etc., are some places around the Phuket area you might want to be once you are there. You can enjoy the best of seaside activities in one of these places. Diving, kayaking, Island hopping, nature trail hiking, golf and spa are some main attractions in Phuket.

So find an expert agent who offers you great packages of honeymoon in Thailand and discover one of the best of the Oriental destinations. Do keep in mind the weather while you book your package.

Tag : leisure,travel,Thailand,honeymoon,destinations

Shanghai - A City of Many Faces

Shanghai divides easily into three major parts: the Old City; the Former French, British and America Concessions; and Pudong, the New Shanghai. While the structures of the older city tend to reflect typically older or traditional Chinese culture, the Pudong projects its vision of Shanghai with towering skyscrapers and bright lights. Wherever you stay, in traditional or newer luxury hotels, Shanghai promises you will experience a city in which the past and the present coexist.

Architectural Contrasts

In Shanghai, architecture reflects the trends and culture of the period. The Bund is, however, the best place to visit to view the range of popular international styles of the 1920s and 1930s. In construction of its banks, theatres and luxury hotels, Shanghai saw the favouring of the Art Deco style. This is particularly true in the Peace Hotel by Palmer and Turner and the Park Hotel by L. Hudec.

In parts of the Old City, the international look never gained a footing. Art Deco was not common, but traditional Shikumen (old stone gatehouse) houses remain. So, too, do temples and market places. In Xintiandi, renovation and restoration has modernised the Shikumen, turning them into trendy bars, chic stores and high-end restaurants.

Across the river, a different type of architecture plays out. This is the Shanghai of the future. In Pudong, the buildings and towers are bold and brassy. They reflect the new Shanghai. The Oriental Pearl tower is the tallest of its kind in Asia, while the silvery-coloured Jinmao Tower is a marvellously elegant and rich 88-floor hotel. The Shanghai World Financial Centre is also in Pudong. Constructed in 2008, it rises up 101 stories. This impressive structure includes the Skywalk, an observation platform, and the world's highest hotel - the Park Shanghai Hyatt.

Museums - Big and Small

You can often judge the worth of a city by how it takes care of and presents its past. While it boasts high-end shopping, lively entertainment, beautiful architecture and luxury hotels, Shanghai also allows visitors a look at the city's past. It even provides a look at different aspects of the city's cultural history.

A visit to the city is not complete without spending time admiring all that the Shanghai Museum in People's Square has to offer. Among the more than 120,000 pieces are truly unique items. The Sancai (3-colour) pottery figures are exquisite in design and rendering. The Shang Bronzes include some wonderful objects of skilled craftsmanship and art. In the Jade Gallery, you can wander past delicately carved pieces of jade. Some date back as far as the 31st century C.B.E. The exhibits include skilfully rendered and ornate artefacts that range from the Neolithic period to the Quing Dynasty.

Shanghai hosts other smaller, and often curious, museums. One of the more intriguing local museums is the Shanghai Jewish Refugee Museum. You can locate it on Changyang Road, Hongkou District. The 1927 structure originally housed the Ohel Moshe Synagogue. During the 1930s and into the period of World War II, the Synagogue was the place of worship for many of the Jewish refugees seeking safety from the ongoing slaughter. Shanghai, unlike other cities and countries, did not refuse Jews. In fact, it took in approximately 25,000.

Today, the Synagogue is a reminder of an important part of Shanghai's past and Jewish history. The former Prime Minister of Israel, Yitzhak Rabin, came to the Museum in 1993. He admired the various cultural relics, including ancient scrolls. Yet, he also came to thank the people in Shanghai for doing what so many other peoples and nations had failed to do.

Entertainment that Delights

You can find entertainment in many of the city's luxury hotels. Shanghai, however, beckons visitors with a variety of venues and forms of entertainment. They reflect Shanghai's heritage as both traditional and western-influenced offerings vie for your attention. Catch the incredible and world-famous Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe at either the Shanghai Circus World or over at the Shanghai Centre Theatre. The Peace Hotel offers traditional New Orleans Jazz nightly, while over at Babyface, the trendy and popular nightclub, visitors can people-watch and listen to more mainstream music.

If you are a fan of opera, consider sampling Chinese opera. The Yifu Theatre provides classic examples of this stylised form of traditional music. The Heluting Concert Hall, meanwhile, provides performances of classical and chamber music while the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra is on stage at the modern, butterfly-shaped Shanghai Oriental Art Centre.

Jazz and Blues are alive in Shanghai. Visit the Cotton Club, the J2 Club or even the House of Blues and Jazz. Alternatively, you can check a local guide and find any number of modern techno, indie or popular music venues.

Tag : travel,Shanghai,China

Tips For Travelling With Pets

Going on a holiday does not necessarily mean that you have to put your pets in a kennel or cattery. Many different types of accommodation are now pet friendly, from farm stays, hotels, bed and breakfasts and camping grounds. For many people their pets are like family and leaving them at a boarding facility is just not an option. When taking your pet on holiday there are a few simple tips you can follow to make travelling easier.

Flying with pets

If travelling involves flying then you will need to pre-book your pet on the flight. Contact the airline to see if there are any specific requirements for your pet to travel with them. It is likely you will have to arrive much earlier than you normally would for check-in and your pet will need to go into an airline pet crate.

Check accommodation

It is a good idea to find out how 'pet friendly' the accommodation is. Make sure there is secure fencing, find out whether you need to bring bedding and your own pet food, and whether your pets are allowed inside. If you are staying at a bed and breakfast or a farm stay you might want to ask whether they have their own pets, just in case your pet doesn't interact well with other animals.

Vet check

Book your pet in for a visit to the vet before you go and make sure its vaccinations are up to date, and it is in good health. The vet can also print out your pet's medical history in case of an emergency. You might want to look in to what any potential risks are, for example warmer and more tropical climates are prone to ticks, so find out what you need to know to help protect your pet. Also make sure your pet is free of fleas, as you don't want to infest other animals.

Any restrictions

Make sure there are no restrictions on where your pets can travel. There are restrictions on bringing domestic animals into national parks, state conservation areas, historic sites, nature reserves and Aboriginal heritage areas. Domestic pets are a hazard to wildlife and you will be unable to bring pets into these protected areas. Some areas you can bring dogs into, although only on a leash.

Other things to remember

Your pet needs to be secure while travelling to keep them safe in case of an accident, and also to stop them from become a potential missile if you do have to brake suddenly. You can buy harnesses for dogs which are made to fit with the seat belt, otherwise they can travel in the cargo area of a car if separated by a divider. Cats travel better in a cage. Don't leave your pets in the car in hot weather as it can reach extreme temperatures inside and your pet can become dehydrated very quickly. You may want to bring your pet's bedding or favourite toy, and remember to bring the leash, a water bowl, food and waste disposal bags.

Tag : travelling,pets,travel

How Much Does a Taxi Cost Per Mile?

Taxicabs are very important means of transportation. It offers a lot of advantages compared to other types of overland transport systems. If you are in a hurry, a taxi can get to you to where you want to be in a speed of light, but if you have the all time in the world to wait for a person out his house, you can hire a taxi to wait with you.

In spite of the advantages it has, the cost of this transportation may be considered a setback. There are lots of people complaining of what they claim as the exaggerated cost of taxis. For people to understand on how they are billed for riding a taxi, it is advised to know the cost of a taxi ride for every mile it travels.

The cost of a taxi per mile greatly depends on which city you are in because each has their own rules and regulations in the operation of taxis within their city which include the program of the taximeters. A taximeter is device that helps the taxi drivers in calculating the right amount to bill a passenger of the service it offered. The calculations of the taximeter greatly depend on the distance traveled and the time it took to get to the passenger's destination. In New York City, the plug down rate (initial pay for hiring the taxi) is $2.50 and this number increase by 40 cents every fifth of a mile, so the cost of taxi in New York City per mile is around $2. If you are in Miami, Florida the plug down or flag pull rate is $2.25 and in every 1/9 of a mile, a charge of $0.2 is made, so the cost of taxi in Miami is $1.80 which is the same in Dallas. The calculations of taxi of taxi cost are a little complicated in Denver and is dependent on the operators of the vehicle. The estimated per mile cost of taxies in Denver are $2.25 for Metro Taxi and Yellow Cab and $1.80 for Freedom cab.

Again, the cost of taxi per mile is greatly relies on which city you are riding the cab. You're going to find that many cities and states, as well as countries are going to greatly vary. If you're in a particular town / country, it would be best to get quotes online before calling a cab.

Tag : travel,leisure

Dreaming of Some Great Honeymoon Vacations? Why Not Plan for a Honeymoon in Caribbean?

Dreaming of some great honeymoon vacations? Why not plan for a honeymoon in Caribbean? Think for your own self- how good it feels to sleep under the stars, dine under a silver moon or on the sunset terrace with your partner! With beautiful beaches, green trees, blue water and snow covered mountains, Caribbean vacations is indeed an amusing and interesting one.

With multiple honeymoon packages for Caribbean on offer, you have hundreds of options to make your dream vacation come true. The packages include anything and everything starting from first class resorts to incredible view of the emerald seas. A special occasion calls for a special package and by planning a trip to Caribbean on your honeymoon you'll be doing justice to the same. The availability of frequent flights to Caribbean will help you reach the destination without any hassle.

Caribbean Honeymoon Destinations

Anguilla - if you and your partner have an eye for sun kissed beaches then Anguilla will make a great honeymoon destination. Apart from the beaches, the other attractions include- Stoney Bay Marina park, bird watching, Scrub Island, Fountain Cavern national park, Manse building to name a few. Most of the accommodations here are reasonably priced. Some of the options you can count on include- Arawak beach Inn, Anguilla Ku hotel, Llyod's guest house, the fountain beach hotel, the Cocoloba beach hotel and much more.

Bahamas- this island is blessed with a breathtaking location which makes it an ideal honeymoon destination. The major attractions of Bahamas are as follows- The Bahamas Historical Society Museum, The Pompey Museum of Slavery & Emancipation, and The Roselawn Museum, Parliament Square, Balcony House, Queen's Staircase, Versailles Gardens, The Retreat, and Crystal Cay. Accommodation options in Bahamas include- Pink Sands hotel, Grand Isle Villas, Treasure cay hotel resort, Sandals emerald bay hotel, Rock house, St. Francis resort, Abaco inn, Bridge Inn to name a few.

Jamaica - the all inclusive resorts of Jamaica are the key factor that allures honeymooners here. The major attractions of Jamaica include- Dunns River falls, Green Grotto, Discovery bay, Falmouth bay, Montego Bay, Doctor's Cave beach to name a few. Accommodation options in Jamaica are as follows- Westender inn, Geejam, Catcha falling star, Jamaica inn, The Caves, Couples Sans Souci, Round Hill hotel & Villas and many more.

Puerto Rico - If want to relax and rest on the blue beaches, then Puerto Rico turns out to be a great honeymoon destination for you. The major attractions of Puerto Rico include- Castillo de San Felipe del Morro, The Vieques Biobay, Cordillera mountains, El Yunque, Culebrita, Camuy Caves to name a few. Accommodation options in Puerto Rico include- Hotel El Convento, Luquillo Sunrise Beach Inn, Horned Dorset Primavera, to name a few.

Tag : leisure,leisure plus,leisure books,travel,honeymoon vacations

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

Top 3 Adventure Activities at La Tania Ski Resort

If you are looking for an exciting winter experience in the French Alps, then staying at La Tania offers you the world's largest ski area as well as some truly exciting off piste activities. You will be close to all the action and be able to take full advantage of every moment of your trip by staying at the La Tania ski chalets. La Tania has everything an adventure lover could possibly need.

Set among a charming pine forest, the ski chalets of La Tania offer skiers a quaint and comfortable stay right on the doorstep of the world's largest ski area. Your Three Valleys ski pass, which is bought from the La Tania gondola, gives you access to more than 2500 hectares of skiable area and 600 kilometres of runs. Located only two hours from Geneva, the resort is easily accessible and has all the facilities needed for a memorable skiing vacation. When planning what to do in the area, obviously skiing or snowboarding are going to be top of the list; however, with such a vast area at your disposal some planning will help you to get the very best out of your time. In addition, there are plenty of activities away from the piste which will round out your La Tania experience - here are the top five:

Dog Sledding

Who hasn't dreamed of a dog sledding experience after watching a documentary set in the Arctic Circle? Any way you look at it dog sledding is cool, and it is something that you can try out while staying in your ski chalets in La Tania. This is not some ride where you will be sitting on the back of a sleigh while the musher does all the work for you. You will be instructed how to handle the sleighs and the huskies yourself, and then be master of your own sled with three or four dogs. During the session, you will glide through the nearby forests, up and down hills and around trees. There is nothing quite like the thrill of zipping through the forest 'mushing' your own team of sled dogs.

Paragliding and Hang gliding

If you are an adventure sport junkie, then you may be interested in catching a glimpse of the Three Valleys area from above with a paragliding or hang gliding experience. Accompanied by a qualified instructor you can either choose a tandem gliding experience over the marshmallow landscape, or take a training course and do your very own piloting.

Snowmobiling

When the runs are shut for the afternoon it doesn't mean that the action is over and everyone has to head back their ski chalets. La Tania offers an exciting après ski activity: snowmobiling. There are three different levels of snowmobiling packages that you can choose between all starting at 5:30pm and continuing well into the evening - the Discovery Package, Sporting Package and Exclusive Package. The Discovery is aimed at beginners who want to learn to handle the machines; the Sporting is for intermediate and advanced drivers; and the Exclusive is for one on one instruction so that you can get the most out of the time with your own teacher.

Tag : leisure,leisure art,leisure online,travel,travel agency,travel adventure

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

Where to Get the Best Sticky Rice in Myanmar

Where to get the Best Sticky Rice in Myanmar

Myanmar is famous for its native delicacies. One of the most popular food that Burmese offer to their visitors is sticky rice, also called "kao hnyin". The kai hnyin is a form of sweet and waxy rice that is cultivated in Asian countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, China, Japan, Bangladesh, Thailand, Taiwan, Cambodia and Myanmar. It is probably more popular in Myanmar, and they even celebrate their own Htamane festival or the Sticky Rice festival. The celebration is held throughout the country between February and March of each year.

Cooking Myanmar rice is not that easy. It has to be soaked overnight and then the small pieces of coconuts are fried the next day together with the other ingredients. The rice is then cooked by two strong men who will stir the sticky rice until cooked. It is not a delicacy that the local women can do, especially if they are going to cook in large quantities. However despite its complicated cooking, the sticky rice is still loved not only by the locals, but the tourists as well.

Sticky rice can be found all over Myanmar. Restaurants serving native dishes have the kao hnyin in their menu. The rice is cooked in many varieties, mostly for desserts.

Here are some of the best restaurants in Myanmar that serve sticky rice:

Green Elephant Restaurant- This restaurant is found along Augustine Road in Yangon. It is a classy restaurant that serves an array of all-Burmese delicacies from beef, fish, and duck, as well as chicken and pork recipes. They also serve the rice with mangoes as a delicious dessert. They also have another branch in Mandalay.

Feel Myanmar Food- This restaurant serves mostly Burmese cuisine. They also have different types of sticky rice dishes in their menu.

Yar Pyi Vegetarian Restaurant- This is a family run restaurant located in Bagan, Myanmar. They serve vegetarian delicacies as well as rice meals.

The Strand Grill- Another restaurant found in Yangon, the Strand Grill has excellent food selections including sticky rice desserts. Tourists love this place because of its classy setting.

Aung Thukha- If you are looking for a restaurant that serves entirely Burmese cuisine, then you should try the Aung Thukha restaurant. It is located in Yangon where you can try the real Burmese dishes.

Mr. Bar BQ- If you happen to visit Mandalay, you can try out the Mr. Bar BQ restaurant which serves all-Burmese cuisines.

All of the local restaurants in Myanmar serve sticky rice dishes. Western, European and Italian restaurants may not serve sticky rice, but all the others found in the country will have something that is made from kao hnyin.

Tag : leisure,travel,Myanmar,travel in,travel agency

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

Advantages Of An Air Charter For Business and Leisure

On the face of it, air charter seems to be a luxury that high-flying corporate executives get as perks of the job. But look at it a little deeper, and turns out it's actually a money-saver. The thing is that a top level executive's time is very valuable, and each minute spent in an airport lounge is a lost minute for the company.

With each day and month, the situation at the airports is getting worse. Flight delays, airport security, missed connections and the exhausting experience of boarding a commercial flight all combine to wring the enthusiasm out of business travelers. An executive who turns up at an important meeting after such an experience can hardly be expected to be very effective.

The point here is that all that time spent is company time being wasted. So it's safe to assume that it's profitable for a company to allow the cream of its top level executives to hop around in private jets. But this doesn't mean the company has to shell out big dollars to buy planes.

One of the more popular arrangements is called a fractional ownership system, where a person or company is one of many owners of the plane (usually between 2 to 8). The whole thing is managed by a fractional ownership company, which will have many planes of the same make and model. So when a company wants to use a plane, it just has to pay for the flight costs, including the fuel.

Other than the cost-savings of shared ownership, there are many more benefits. For example, passengers on commercial carriers can only fly to and from a limited number of big airports. An air charter, however, can fly to thousands of big and small airports, many of which are private.

This further reduces local transportation needs, and the time spent traveling. Plus, there are no delays for boarding or exiting. It is possible to drive right up to the plane and have the baggage loaded up right then and there. Pets, if any, can travel in the cabin.

Executives can travel in absolute comfort and get some good sleep. Or they can put in a few hours' work with a laptop, wi-fi internet, videoconferencing, satellite phones and other tools. Some commercial carriers do offer some of these tools, but they cannot be used on account of a lack of privacy.

For personal use, it's hard to justify air charter as a cost-saver, but there are situations where it can be a life-saver instead. Medical travel, for instance, is one such area where the patient might not want to ensure the agony of commercial flights. Elderly people and tourists unsure of being able to catch connecting flights may want to make their holiday experience more memorable and safe by taking a private jet instead.

It's important to note here that prices for an air charter are not that high anymore, and it's a lot closer to what's considered acceptable spending while on vacation, similar to staying in a luxury hotel. Before booking a commercial flight ticket, just find out how much it would just for the same trip on a private jet. Most people are likely to end up surprised at how much cheaper it is than they thought it would be.

Tag : leisure,leisure suit larry,leisure line,leisure books

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

Tourist Tips

If you're planning an overseas trip, there's more than just the weather and weather-appropriate clothing that you have to prepare. You have to get yourself and your mindset ready. Yes, it can be a totally new experience being in a different land where people will have with different customs and ideals. You may find them entertaining or disgusting depending on your own set of customs and ideals, but in any case, you will have to try to get along with them for as long as you're staying in their country.

You'll always want to take care of yourself in a place where you don't know many things and people. So to keep yourself safe, know what you need to know and act accordingly. For starters, you must be aware of the most basic aspects of the country's culture and this you can do by researching about it on the Internet. A basic example would be Indians treating cows as sacred. This means don't ever ask the waiter if they have beef on their menu.

Another important thing you'd like to know about a country you're visiting is its crime situation. As a basic precaution, avoid wearing items that are going to attract the attention of criminals such as flashy clothing or heavy jewelry. And leave the cash in your bank and just carry a safe amount while making use of your credit card for big purchases. Each time a stranger approaches you, assume immediately that the person will be a threat. This means not giving them any information about yourself or your itinerary and politely making your exit the soonest.

Even in a foreign land, it's nice to have fun at bars while you socialize and have some drinks. But do limit your drinking because you'll never know what will happen to you, especially when you're in a country where people speak a language you don't understand. Having a travel companion won't help much either because, chances are, he won't understand that language, either. This can be a recipe for disaster, so to avoid being in it, avoid too much alcohol and go straight to your hotel room after you've had a few rounds.

Lastly, be aware of the laws of the country you're visiting. There's nothing more embarrassing than Figuring in a legal skirmish and you don't even know what you've done. The worst picture would be deportation, and while you've always planned on returning back home, you don't want to waste that opportunity to get away from work and reward yourself. You probably won't get a leave-of-absence anytime within the same year, so you'll always want to take advantage of the time you have.

Tag : leisure,leisure plus,leisure pro,travel agency,travel channel

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