Auckland’s Finest Tourism Attractions
Posted on October 10, 2008
The city of Auckland, the capital of New Zealand lies on a volcanic belt. But there is no fear of volcanic eruptions as the volcanoes are now extinct. A few volcanoes however are dormant though. The topography of Auckland comprises more than fifty volcanoes in the form of depressions, islands, lagoons, lakes, cones etc.
Auckland is flanked on two sides by two harbors ? the Manukau Harbor and the Waite Mata Harbor. The main city lies on an isthmus and is also wrapped around this geographical feature.
A pleasant weather coupled with a mild winter and a little snowfall makes Auckland a nice place to visit throughout the year. It is Auckland?s unusual geographical topography that contributes to the city?s distinctive charm.
The fair skinned Tuherus were the first inhabitants of Auckland, as recorded in the annals of history. Ngati Whatua iwi conquered the city and its adjoining regions in the mid 18th century. Explorers from Europe in 1820 chanced upon its shores while exploring the Hauraki Gulf surrounding Auckland.
The unusual scenic beauty of the volcanic craggy landscape led to the establishment of the first European village here. The birth of the modern city of Auckland can be attributed to the signing of the TREATY OF WAITANGI, 1840 by the local Maori chiefs beside Karaka bay.
A multiracial and multicultural social community is the other high point of this city. Its multicultural roots can be traced back to the settlement of inhabitants from different regions and ethnicities like the Pacific, Africa, Asia and Europe. The largest Polynesian population of the world resides in Auckland.
The largest urban area of New Zealand ? Auckland is situated in the north island. The traditional name of the city is TAMAKI MAKAU RAU. It is a fast developing city blessed by the bounty of nature. If you visit Auckland, you will be overwhelmed with surprises at every corner.
It boasts of a rare and queer natural beauty that is peerless and unmatched by the scenic locales of any other city in the world. Its volcanic topography lends it a quaint charm and contributes to its different appeal. You can be assured that you have never seen a city as exotic as this.
The splendor of Auckland is a result of tradition juxtaposed against modernity where colossal museums rub shoulders with nightclubs/discotheques and magnificent gardens.
You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to recreational activities like shopping, dining, clubbing, partying, dancing and sight seeing. Some of the top attractions for sight seeing include STARDOME OBSERVATORY, SKY TOWER, NORTH HEAD, MOTAT, LION BREWERIES, KELLY TARLTON?S UNDERWATER WORLD AND ANTARCTIC ENCOUNTER, AUCKLAND ZOO, TAMAKI PAENGA HIRA better known as AUCKLAND MUSEUM, AUCKLAND BOTANICAL GARDENS, and TOI O TAMAKI or Auckland art gallery.
Auckland?s main attraction lies not only in these, but in the visual splendor offered by the azure sea blending into the distant horizon, beautiful vine yards, and lush green meadows along with aquatic delights.
Author Bio: Auckland hotels
Discover the Wonders of the Worlds Largest Ship
Posted on October 10, 2008
How would you feel if you go on board with the worlds largest ship? In history, there is no single ship which was built that can be compared to the enormous size of the Freedom Ship. Come to picture the 25-story buildings you see in New York floating on the deep wide sea! It measures 4,320 feet long with a width of 725 feet and 340 feet tall. But wait, it does not just float on water but it can navigate the world too! Definitely, it can dwarf any ship that is operating these days since it is four times bigger than the usual ships.
It is created through the use of 520 airtight steels that are bolted with one another to create tough bases. Each particular cell will measure 80 feet tall. Norman Nixon which is the man who developed the idea of allowing a giant city float in water said that it would take 3 years before the completion of the ship is done.
And as expected, the worlds largest ship requires tremendous engine power just to push the giant ship through the water or even to just get it to move. A hundred diesel engines will be outfitted in order for each one to create a total of 3,700 horsepower. One million dollar is the estimate cost of each engine alone which gives us a peak view of how expensive the project is even though the total cost is still not named. This expensiveness would of course be handed down to the people who wish to buy their residency on the ship who will have to pay 11 million each.
Living the Life at the Freedom Ship
An estimate of 17,000 residential units are available which will be a decent home for 60,000 plus of people which will include their personnel who are tasked to maintain the condition of the boat. The residents can expect that the ship will continuously travel around the world and will circle coastal regions thus people will have the chance to see how the whole world looks without actually leaving the comfort of their homes. The employees will be tendered medical and dental services, care housing, uniforms, and education program. The ship also embraces the entire modern feature you will expect in a modern city. The lists of features follow:
- 3,800 foot landing strip which will work as the landing place of private planes and other commercial aircraft that may carry up to 40 passengers only
- 200 million worth hospital
- marina for residents that own a yacht
- hangar for private air vehicles
- shopping mall
- golf range
- bicycle paths
- school system with college education
- open acres use for recreation.
Of course only a few would be able to afford to live in the worlds largest ship. They will be given the chance to enjoy no real estate tax, including income tax, business tax, sales tax, local taxes, and import duties. But still, there is still exemptions since residence are abided to follow federal tax laws in their original home country.
Author Bio: PART 2 - For part two of this article, head on to Worlds Largest Ship where you can also get the best deals on a Carnival Cruise Line Ship vacation.
Summer Road Trip Songs
Posted on October 10, 2008
There?s nothing like a great soundtrack for your road trip to really make the miles fly by. Rather than just bringing a collection of your favorite CDs, why not look into making your own mixed disc with all the favorite songs of everyone who will be going along on the trip.
With the right tunes, you can really enjoy even the longest of road trips. Just think back to all the movies you?ve seen where they play upbeat music as the characters speed across the countryside. We all want to be like that, so, while you can?t montage your trip into a two minute scene, you can certainly spice it up with some good music.
Choosing Summer Road Trip Songs
Your songs don?t have to actually involve road trips, but it sure lends a fun air if they talk about traveling and cars, which is why most of the tunes on the majority of song lists are all about being on the move. This just seems appropriate for a car full of people whizzing down the highway and they are also usually songs that you already know and can sing along to.
Look for songs that are upbeat and will keep you bobbing your head and tapping the steering wheel . . . the last thing you want is to fall asleep to some slow ballad that doesn?t inspire anyone in the car to sing. Songs that are easy to sing along to are an excellent way to draw fellow passengers out of their stupor and get them bouncing around and air-strumming to the music.
When you do find those songs for a road trip, it?s a good idea to put a lot onto your disk or MP3 player. This is because a long trip will quickly exhaust your options. You don?t want to be listening to the same ten songs over and over again every hour! So consider putting at least 50-100 songs together for your road trip compilation. This will give you a good 4-8 hours of music and you won?t have to get bored of any particular song, unless, of course, you want to and hit repeat over and over.
If you are having troubles finding enough songs for the compilation, recruit your passengers. Get them to each chip in 10 or 20 songs that they enjoy and you can all be introduced to some new tunes while also enjoying your own favorites. Mix the song order up a bit so you won?t have each person?s favorites all in a row . . . this way it will be more interesting for everyone and if there is something you don?t really like, it?s only one song long.
While you will most certainly have your own favorite music, there are a few timeless pieces that simply must be included on every summer road trip song list. Here they are:
Top Road Trip Songs
? Hotel California ? The Eagles
? Ramblin? Man ? The Allman Brothers
? Highway Star ? Deep Purple
? California Dreaming ? Beach Boys
? Life is a Highway ? Tom Cochrane
? Truckin? - Grateful Dead
? Light My Fire ? The Doors
? Roadhouse Blues ? The Doors
? American Woman ? Guess Who
? One Headlight ? The Wallflowers
This list could go on for days, as you can well imagine, but these are some of the best songs out there for listening on the road. They are great to sing along to, they boost morale and get everyone bopping in the car . . . all ingredients for a great summer road trip song list.
Author Bio: Canadian auto club offering roadside assistance in Ontario.
Winter Breaks in Lanzarote
Posted on October 10, 2008
As summer changes to autumn, trees start to shed their leaves and daytime temperatures drop slightly, people fortunate enough to afford the time and cost turn their thoughts to a winter break. The winter break has long been popular with residents of the colder European countries who are within a short flight to the resorts in southern Europe that remain relatively mild during the winter months. The fact that you can fly from almost anywhere in Europe to the popular winter break resorts within 3 or 4 hours makes them very accessible.
Some of the most popular destinations are those of the Canary Islands which actually lie much closer to the North African coastline (less than 80 miles) than they do to the nearest European country of Spain. Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventrua and Lanzarote are the largest four of the islands and attract the most tourist trade.
Typical winter temperatures rarely drop below 20 degrees in Lanzarote, the warmest of the islands, compared to average winter temperatures of below 10 degrees in the UK for the coldest six months of the year. So you see why the island is attractive to those looking for some warmer weather to see them through to springtime.
Because Lanzarote has long been a destination for winter travellers the island is well set up to cater for the type of tourist that time of year attracts. The islanders themselves are very laid back which suits the relaxed environment the travellers are looking for.
The landscape of the island is very unusual due to its volcanic underpinnings and it is a relatively young landscape having been created by erupting volcanoes only 250 years ago. But don?t worry because the volcanoes have been quiet ever since. There is limited vegetation and very few trees to interrupt the moonscape-like scenery. In the south of the island the volcanic vistas give way to golden sandy beaches, just the pace to while away a mild December day. In fact there are almost one hundred beaches on the island, so sun worshippers will be spoilt for choice and have plenty of space during the quieter months.
The size of the island, only 12 miles coast to coast east to west and less than 40 miles between the north and south coasts, makes all resorts just a short drive from the airport in Arrecife. This compact size also make the island an ideal touring location for tourists interested in leaving their base for day trips.
There are differing views about the vibrant resort of Playa Blanca, named after its white sandy beach. Some say the town has a unique charm, retaining its traditional village feel which makes its an ideal destination for families and couple seeking a quieter break. Others however criticise the resort for being overdeveloped in recent years due to the flourishing property market.
For the past 25 years Lanzarote has been home to the famous sports resort Club La Santa. The venue provides a centre for both professional and amateur sportsmen and women seeking warmer climates to train in. The resort mixes 400 high quality holiday apartments with some of the best sports facilities in Europe, including a six lane athletics track, Olympic 50m 8 lane swimming pool and ten tennis courts. The resort also hosts its own multi-sport events including the famous Lanzarote Ironman triathlon and the International Club La Santa Duathlon.
Although the island has only one airport, it has enough capacity to cater for a range of daily flights from many of the major European airports and from the UK you can depart from most airports including Manchester, Gatwick, Glasgow, Newcastle and Cardiff.
The airlines providing these flights include the major scheduled operators like British Airways as well as the charter airlines like FlyThomasCook, Monarch and ThomsonFly.
Booking well in advance should make a return trip available for less than 200 pounds sterling but leaving bookings until the last minute could easily see prices reach twice that level.
Author Bio: Let Dan Williams’ expertise guide you to a great winter break. Flights to Gran Canaria and flights to Tenerife are provided by operators such as FlyThomasCook and Thomson.
5 Reasons Why You Should Stay at a Super-Inclusive Resort
Posted on October 10, 2008
Are you looking for a Jamaica resort? On the island of Jamaica, you will find multiple hotels and resorts to choose from. In your search, you will discover resorts that are classified as super-inclusive resorts. These resorts should be closely examined. Why? Continue reading on for five great reasons.
1 ? Better than All-Inclusive Resorts
Many travelers are barely able to contain their excitement when they discover an all-inclusive resort. After all, what doesn?t sound great about it? Unfortunately, you will soon learn that some all-inclusive resorts aren?t all that inclusive. You may find a long list of rules and restrictions. That is why super-inclusive resorts are recommended.
With all-inclusive resorts, the cost of your room, food, and drinks may be included. This is nice, but wouldn?t you like to get more? Most super-inclusive resorts not only include your food and drinks, but snacks and premium drinks! That is just one example why super-inclusive is better.
2 ? Your Options
Super-inclusive resorts can be hard to come across, but not on the island of Jamaica. In fact, you have six different options. These options included the Breezes Resorts, Grand Lido Resorts, and Hedonism II and II Resorts.
When making your choice, it is important to examine age restrictions. It is common for some super-inclusive resorts to double as adult resorts, meaning children under the age of 14 may be prohibited from staying onsite. This is important to verify if you are traveling with small children.
3 ? What Is Included
As previously stated, all-inclusive Jamaica resorts include the cost of your room, food, and drinks. Since super-inclusive resorts take it a step farther, you get more. This includes entertainment, snacks, premium drinks, airport transfers, and tips. All of these items are already included in the cost of your stay. You should also gain access to amenities, which many vary depending on the resort in question. An example would be air conditioned rooms in all deluxe rooms and suites, a CD player in every room, as well as free access to the beach.
4 ? No Strings Attached
The difference between all-inclusive Jamaica resorts and super-inclusive resorts is that there are no strings attached. You will rarely find any rules and restrictions and, should they exist, they will be clearly outlined for you. For example, golf is available onsite at the Grand Lido Braco Resort and the Breezes Runaway Bay. It is clearly outlined that your green fees are included; however, caddie fees and an optional golf cart rental are your responsibility.
Another example is onsite restaurants. When you stay at a truly all-inclusive or super-inclusive resort, you should gain access to all restaurants. For upscale restaurants, you may find a small surcharge, which will be clearly outlined on the resort?s website, but the cost of dinner should be included with your stay.
With no strings travel, you do not have any surprises waiting for you. If any additional fees are required, they will be clearly outlined for you ahead of time.
5 ? They Simplify the Planning Process
Whether you are planning a family vacation, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, planning a trip to Jamaica may seem overwhelming. After all, there are many arrangements to make. With super-inclusive resorts, your planning is simplified. You purchase one large travel packages that includes a good percentage of your trip. Essentially, you prepay for most of your trip upfront.
Super-inclusive Jamaica resorts not only simplify the planning process, but they allow for stress-free travel. When most of your vacation is prepaid for, you can relax more. There is no having to budget your money to ensure you have enough for dinner or tips, as these should already be included in the cost of your stay. If you really want to enjoy your trip, super-inclusive or all-inclusive resorts is the way to go.
If you are ready to start planning your next trip to Jamaica, visit SuperClubs.com, they not only list six super-inclusive Jamaica resorts for you to choose from, but an all-inclusive family resort. Although not technically classified as a super-inclusive resort, you will find this resort, which is the Starfish Resort at Trelawny Bay, to be all-inclusive with no hidden fees, as everything is clearly stated for you.
Author Bio: Want to plan a super-inclusive Jamaica vacation? If so, visit SuperClubs.com. They can help you find the perfect Jamaica resort and Jamaica all-inclusive travel package.
5 Things to Do on a Jamaica Family Vacation
Posted on October 10, 2008
Are you in the process of planning a fun family vacation? If you are and if you have selected Jamaica as your next family vacation destination, there are five things you will want to do. These five things, which are outlined below, can help to maximize your vacation and its success.
1 ? Stay at an All Inclusive Family Resort
In Jamaica, you will not only find all-inclusive resorts, but you will also find all-inclusive family resorts. These are the type of resorts you will closely want to examine. Why? Because they are perfect for family vacations! In fact, you won?t find a better fit.
All-inclusive resorts are nice as many of your travel expenses are included in the cost of your stay. For example, your room, food, drinks, and tips should be included. Resorts that are classified as super-inclusive resorts will offer and cover more! As for family resorts, they cater to couples traveling with children of all ages. Most onsite activities are fun and age appropriate. You may find a playground on the beach, an indoor game room, and scheduled activities.
Those staying at Jamaica all-inclusive family resorts are just like you. This means that you can let loose and have fun. You don?t have to worry if your children are disrupting a couple?s romantic getaway. And, not only can you have the vacation of your dreams, but you and your children may also walk away with a new friend.
2 ? Take Advantage of Resort Amenities
Whether you opt to stay at a traditional resort or a Jamaica all-inclusive resort, take advantage of what you are provided with. All Jamaica resorts offer a wide range of services, features, facilities, and amenities. In fact, many are already included in the cost of your stay.
Since you are essentially paying to use the hotel?s swimming pool, do so. The same for other amenities, such as a beachfront resort, fitness center, playground, and so forth. Not only can this increase the satisfaction of your family vacation, but it can also help you save money.
3 ? Use Childcare Services
If you opt for a Jamaica all-inclusive family resort, you will likely find childcare services available. If so, use them. Yes, a family vacation involves spending time with your children, but Jamaica is also the perfect destination for romance. Whether you enjoy a night of dancing or a private walk along the beach, use the childcare services that your hotel offers. For an affordable fee, a trained resort employee will care for your children.
4 ? Sightsee
One of the best parts of vacationing in a foreign country is the ability to explore. You and your children will not only have fun visiting Jamaica landmarks and attractions, but you will learn a lot too.
In terms of Jamaica sightseeing, some travelers are concerned with safety. As with any type of travel, you will want to proceed with caution. You have the ability to tour many popular attractions independently, but guided tours are available as well. You may enjoy the comfort and peace of mind that comes along with one. For independent travel, inquire at your hotel as to which areas are best to visit.
5 ? Document Your Jamaica Travels
Your Jamaica family vacation will be so fun that you will remember it for years to come, but why not document the memories? Bring a digital camera or camcorder with you. Snap as many pictures and record as much video as possible. In the end, you will be glad that you did. Remember, these are items that can be treasured and shared for years to come!
Another benefit of documenting your Jamaica family vacation is what you can do with those memories. Preschoolers and elementary children can make a vacation scrapbook. For added fun, teenagers can make a digital scrapbook to share with their friends online.
Staying at a Jamaica all-inclusive family resort, taking advantage of your resort amenities, sightseeing, using your resort?s childcare services, and documenting your travels are just a few of the many ways that you can maximize your vacation, but they are easy to implement steps.
Author Bio: Looking for family vacation ideas? Visit SuperClubs.com today to see why Jamaica is the perfect family vacation destination. Examine their selection of affordable, yet quality Jamaica family resorts.
Choosing Between the Canary Islands
Posted on October 10, 2008
Choosing which of the Canary Islands to visit is a real dilemma for the winter break tourist. All of the main seven islands, that are located just off the north African coastline, share similar climates, but the major differences lie in the way each of these islands has grown up and the level of urban development progression in each. Some of the resorts on these islands have their roots back in the 1950?s and so exhibit some dated and, for some, unattractive architecture while the resorts that have only recently gained popularity boast modern developments that are more pleasing on the eye.
For the winter traveller who is looking for more than just a beach holiday (and the islands can certainly provide that) there are a host of other attractions from 15th century Spanish settlements, a number of spectacular national parks and a wide choice of art and culture to satisfy a range of tastes. On Lanzarote its most famous resident, artist Cesar Manrique, has left his impression all over the island with his distinctive style of sculpture, architecture and painting. The artist was sadly killed in a car accident on the island of Lanzarote in 1992 but has left his mark following his enthusiastic pursuit of sympathetic planning regulations resulting in a lack of high rise development on the island. His work reflects an acceptable form of modern functional design and includes the spectacular viewpoint at Mirador del Rio and the amazing Jameos del Agua, a cave system transformed by Manrique into an auditorium and breathtaking swimming pool and gardens. The excellent acoustic properties of the auditorium see it hosting several events including shows, concerts and regular discos.
Falling under the same administration as Lanzarote, Gran Canaria is one of the larger islands in the group and accordingly has a more established urban buzz and city feel. That?s not to say it is not attractive as a resort for many visitors. A cheap flight to Gran Canaria in the off-peak season should be affordable enough to make it a suitable destination for a weekend city break. It has a varied selection of all the elements of city life including culture, restaurants, bars and clubs. The city also has a very important marina development given its location and it plays host to frequent regattas.
Gran Canaria has developed in popularity largely because of its amazingly mild climate. The temperature barely leaves the 20-30 degrees centigrade range making it pleasantly warm but never too hot. The trade winds bring pleasant breezes to create a comfortable environment for sightseers and sportspeople alike. In fact the sport of windsurfing has seen Gran Canaria establish itself as one of the world?s most favoured destinations for top surfers. There a re plenty of sheltered location for newcomers to the sport but the more experienced are likely to head for Pozo Isquierdo where powerful winds provide all the thrills and challenges the best in the sport demand.
For British holidaymakers, the island of Tenerife has been a favourite ever since the 1950?s. It?s the largest of the Canaries and has seen its fair share of development which is still ongoing. The resorts being built now offer some of the highest quality amenities you will find anywhere in the island group. There are waterparks and golf courses, diving and sail bases. The island is now also home to many Brits who have chosen to live there permanently. Again the climate and abundance of frequent flights to several UK airports make it an easy choice compared to other ex-pat destinations like southern Spain which don?t boast the same constant mild weather.
For the traveller who favours more a natural attraction rather then the bustle of establish tourist traps, the less well-known island of La Gomera provides an refreshing alternative as it is home to one of the best preserved laurisilva forests or humid sub-tropical laurel forests. The evergreen hardwood trees grow to height of up to 40m and harbor a wealth of endemic plant and animal species. Many forests of this type in the world have been devastated by logging activities so La Gomera provides one of the most accessible locations to experience these rare natural features.
So a flight to the Canaries can be a gateway to a mild winter break, a trip to visit friends and relatives or the start to a trip full of exciting natural and cultural experiences.
Author Bio: The Canary Islands offer many choices and articles by Dan Williams cover everything including flights to Lanzarote and flights to Tenerife to help holidaymakers find economic travel arrangements.
Super-Inclusive Jamaica Resorts: What May Be Included
Posted on October 10, 2008
Are you searching for a Jamaica resort? In your search, you will find all-inclusive resorts and super-inclusive resorts. Both may sound appealing, but super-inclusive resorts should get the main focus of your attention. Why? Because of what is included.
Before outlining what a stay at a super-inclusive Jamaica resort may include, it is important to discuss variances. Not all resorts are the same. Just because tips are included in the stay at one Jamaica resort, it doesn?t not mean they will be at another. That is why you should thoroughly review all information provided to you, including the fine print, before purchasing a Jamaica travel package.
Rooms and Suites
In terms of accommodations, your decision should be based on availability and your own personal preferences. Regardless of which Jamaica resort you opt for, you should have multiple options. These options may include a resort room, honeymoon suite, or a room with a beach view or garden view.
Those who are on romantic getaways or honeymoons are encouraged to upgrade to suites.
Dining
Most all-inclusive and super-inclusive Jamaica resorts have at least two eateries for you to choose from. Often times, you are provided with a convenience style eatery and an upscale restaurant. Unless otherwise stated, the cost of dining should be included in your price. For some upscale restaurants, you may find a small surcharge. This surcharge, should it exist, will be clearly highlighted for you to see.
What sets most super-inclusive resorts apart from traditional Jamaica all-inclusive resorts is that you receive more than a nice meal. Many upscale resorts not only include the cost of your food and drinks, but your daytime snacks as well!
Entertainment (Will Vary)
Entertainment is typically included with a stay at a super-inclusive resort. You will, however, find some variances and fees. For example, swimming should be included in the cost of your stay. In addition to a pool swimming, this should include beach swimming, if you stay at a beachfront resort. Family resorts often have onsite playgrounds for children. The use of this playground should be included in the cost of your stay.
Where you will find variances is with additional land and water based activities. For example, it is common for beachfront resorts to offer snorkeling, water-skiing, sailing, and kayaking. Although these activities are offered, you may have to pay a small fee, often for rental equipment. This fee, although small, is still at a discounted price and should be clearly outlined.
In terms of land sports, there is golfing. At many super-inclusive resorts, green fees are included in the cost of your stay. Depending on the Jamaica inclusive resort in question, it may be your responsibly to pay for a cart rental or caddie fees.
Tips and Gratuities
At all super-inclusive resorts on the island of Jamaica, you will find that tipping is already figured into your vacation costs. This means that you are not required to tip. In fact, most encourage you not to. This is one way that a super-inclusive resort is different than an all-inclusive Jamaica resort, where tipping may still be encouraged.
Amenities (Will Vary)
All hotels and resorts provide guests with various amenities, but you will be pleased with the amenities provided at super-inclusive resorts. Of course, a television and telephone are provided, but what about a CD player in every room? That is just the beginning. Although you may find some variances, depending on the resort in question, you may find arts and crafts, indoor game rooms, and much more.
Airport Transfers
On the island of Jamaica, all super-inclusive resorts include the cost of airport transfers. For your convenience, it is best to examine the nearest airports before making your air travel arrangements.
In terms of airport transfers, they are included with all super-inclusive Jamaica resorts. With that said, not all all-inclusive resorts offer this convenient service. For that reason, be sure to know the difference between super and all-inclusive.
As you can see, there is a lot that you gain access to with a stay at a super-inclusive resort. On the island of Jamaica, you will find six super-inclusive resorts. These resorts include Breezes at Montego Bay, Breezes at Runaway Bay, the Grand Lido Braco, the Grand Lido Negril, the Hedonism II in Negril, and the Hedonism III, located near Runaway Bay.
Author Bio: At SuperClubs.com, you can find the all-inclusive Jamaica resort of your dreams. Remember, a game of Jamaica golf may be included in the cost of your stay.
African Safari - Tips and Guidelines on Money Matters and Tipping
Posted on October 10, 2008
After booking and confirming your travel arrangements, you may realize that you still need some more information even as you prepare for the trip to Africa. Some of the questions that you will have, relate to money ? for example, the value of your home-country money in relation to local destination currency. You will probably need to know how much would be enough to cater for your needs. You will certainly need to know in what form you need to carry the money ? whether cash, credit card or in form of checks.
The guideline below, although apt for travelers to East Africa, may apply to most other African destinations. Ultimately, the most reliable and current advise should come from your chosen African Safari Outfitter.
How To carry your money
Cash and travellers’ checks each have advantage. Obviously cash is more readily exchanged and accepted and command a better exchange rate in East Africa. Travellers’ checks on the other hand, are replaceable in case of lose. You should carry a combination. Decide what proportion of each to carry, according to your own taste or convenience against the risks that may arise. Try for a diversity of denominations such that you have a mix of smaller, medium and a few or the larger denominations of your home country currency.
You can change money at slightly less than standard bank rates in most hotels. Traveller’s checks cannot be changed at hotels and lodges; it can only be done at banks and financial institutions.
Credit Cards
Major credit cards (and debit cards with Visa or Master Card logos) offer you a superb emergency back-up. Every traveller should carry one, even if you don’t plan on using it. If your air ticket is lost, or you need to fly home in an emergency, your credit card can make this possible. Your credit card will be accepted in better shops in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, so if you develop an unplanned infatuation with an expensive art object, you can buy it without having to carry hundreds of dollars in cash or checks. Please remember to keep your receipts in case you have questions about the conversion or exchange rate. Also keep your receipts as a proof of purchase.
How Much Money To Take
Do not count on being able to withdraw cash with a credit card, a debit card or an ATM card. Whilst this service is becoming increasingly available, it might not be functional/available on some of the areas you might be visiting. Plan to carry enough money to cover your expected expenses, plus a small reserve. Your credit card can be your financial emergency back up kit.
By far, the biggest variable in your budget may as well be your taste for souvenirs. You take a few meals on your own; these will cost between $10 and $15 each, including a 10%-15% for tipping.
You might also spend a bit on telephone bills, laundry and drinks. Other incidental expenses may arise from domestic and regional airport departure taxes. This may happen in cases where your itinerary includes some internal flights and the tickets do not include the local departure tax. In such cases, these figures are variable depending on the dates of travel, the airport in question and even the country. A confirmation closer to your dates of travel with your Safari Outfitter may give you an idea.
Most people on our trips carry between $500 and $600 (for a two weeks visit) for all extra expenses. (If you have a safari extension, such as to the beach - take about $300 more) If this seems low, take more. If this seems high, remember that you don’t have to spend it all.
The Local Currency
All the three East Africa Currencies (shillings) are composed of 100 cents. For current exchange rates, please refer to the internet or a newspaper.
Tipping Suggestions
In East Africa, all tipping on your trip is optional, and the amounts given, if any, are strictly dependent on your decision, obviously based on your satisfaction with the services rendered. For those who want suggestions, we offer the following guidelines.
You may budget for between 2% and 3% of the entire cost of your trip. Always remember that amounts given, if any, are personal decision, and if travelling in a group, every group member does not have to give the same amount. US dollar cash is preferred for tipping safari staff.
At the end of your trip, if travelling in a group: a volunteer group member can ‘pass the hat’ and present a collective tip to your drivers/guides. Many travellers give between $3 to $ 10 per safari day. You can also tip the drivers and guides individually.
Enjoy your trip to Africa.
Author Bio: Solomon Okila is the Editor and Safari Consultant at African Voyages Tours and Travel. This is a tour operator and Safari Outfitter that specializes on African Travel and holidays.The website has guided thousands of travelers to achieve their dream holiday. For more information and guidance, visit the site at http://www.africanvoyages.com
Top 5 Campsites In Brittany
Posted on October 10, 2008
Camping holidays in Brittany are an ideal way to explore either the rugged northern coastline with its maze of rocky coves and sandy bays, yachts and fishing boats or the southern coast with its long stretches of glorious sandy, sophisticated resorts and delicious offerings of shellfish and cider.
It?s difficult to know which campsites are the right ones for you. So here are my recommendations for an outstanding camping holiday in Brittany…
Camping la Grande M?tairie, Carnac
Starting our list of top campsites in Brittany is one that has been awarded ?five red tents? by Michelin, which is no surprise when you take in its outstanding facilities and spacious environment. If you have children, you?ll be well catered for here, not just by the affectionate farm animals at the adjacent enclosure but also with the fabulous pool complex that boasts a covered pool, two outdoor pools, five waterslides and a jacuzzi! There are plenty of evening attractions too with discos and folk concerts providing entertainment for all tastes.
Camping le Ranolien, Perros
If you want to visit a campsite which commands a stunning position with amazing sea views of the Pink Granite coast in Brittany, then Camping le Ranolien is for you. In addition to the fantastic views, why not sample a local cr?pe and locally brewed cider or take a stroll along the coast. The campsite itself has a lively atmosphere, with plenty of evening entertainment for families and couples alike. Children will love the tropical-style pool complex with multiple waterslides and fountains whilst adults can relax at the luxury spa.
Camping Ch?teau des Ormes, Dol-de-Bretagne
This site has been transformed from a rundown ch?teau into one of the finest campsites in Brittany. It has earned the prestigious Michelin ?five red tents? award and is a member of the ?Castels et Camping? group, and deservedly so, as its wide selection of activities and facilities are outstanding. Onsite you will find a par 72 golf course, a cricket lawn, an excellent pool complex including three pools and a superb waterpark and a wide range of other sporting activities.
Camping Ty-Nadan, Arzano
If you?re looking to have an activity based Brittany camping holiday then you?d be hard pushed to find a better choice than Camping Ty-Nadan at Arzano in Southern Brittany. The qualified staff provide an extensive leisure programme which offers a huge range of activities including quad biking, horse riding, paintballing, canoeing and climbing. If this is not to your liking, why not relax by the fabulous pool complex or explore the local scenic forest by mountain bike at your own pace!
Camping la Pointe St Gilles, B?nodet
One of the best placed campsites in Brittany is without doubt Camping la Pointe St Gilles. Located adjacent to an outstanding sandy beach and the bustling resort of B?nodet, this campsite provides a perfect location for exploring the surrounding area. Children will love the pool complex with its range of slides, while grown ups will delight in the inviting jacuzzi and scenic grounds. There are plenty of activities onsite for all ages, from mini golf to tennis.
Whichever of these you choose for your camping holiday in Brittany, you?re guaranteed to enjoy the diversity of outstanding beaches, memorable historical and cultural sights as well as the flexibility and pace that camping in Brittany allows you.
Author Bio: Stephen Lane is the Marketing Manager of Canvas Holidays, one of the leading European camping and mobile home holiday operators within the UK. With over 40 years of experience, Canvas offer tailor made camping holidays in Brittany, the rest of France, Spain, Italy, Holland, Germany and many more sites throughout 9 European Countries.