5 Tips You Can’t Travel Without In Central America

Is a purse necessary? I’ve noticed most of you women travelers have a hard time parting with your purses. So why not take a good hard look through your purse, I’m sure you will discover it is not necessary. I understand that when you go out at night to a restaurant or a bar, you will need a few vanity objects, and that’s perfectly fine. But when it comes to sightseeing or going on tours while on a trip you have to ask yourself:

What do you really need?

Money

Credit Cards

Camera

Sunglasses

All of these can easily fit in comfortable clothes with pockets, which I guess you will be wearing. So why not use them? So leave your purse at home you’ll find it to be such a stress reliever!

Wear comfortable shoes: Perhaps this seems obvious and it should, but sometimes shoes that may have been comfortable at home are not comfortable for traveling. A good idea is to use the shoes you plan on taking on vacation for a long walk before you leave in order to see if they can handle the wear they will get, if you like to get as much sight-seeing as possible in one day.

Research: This is another tip that may seem like an obvious one, but this way you will avoid being stressed on vacation, it can also happen if you plan too many things. But at the same time it sucks being bored on a vacation with nothing to do so believe me: Putting in a bit of extra work before leaving to figure out what it is you want will make your trip a lot more enjoyable. I suggest mapping out a specific itinerary in advance.

Blend with the Crowd: In other words, leave the Hawaiian shirt, crop top and fanny pack at home. If not just to avoid becoming a target for scams and theft, but to show respect in certain places where exposing too much skin can be offensive. I understand that not everyone is a fan of modesty, but if you don’t want to be robbed, you will have to.

Always Have a Copy: This may be paranoia speaking, but I feel safer knowing I have copies of my passport, identification, and contacts in different bags and back at the hotel. If you think about it what would you do to go back home if you lose your passport. I have heard some horror stories, so this extra step gives me peace.

Marina K. Villatoro, the Travel Experta, has been living in Central America – Costa Rica and Guatemala for the past decade. Traveling with her family to all parts of Costa Rica and Guatemala, she now loves organizing vacations for people and offers first hand experience. Contact her for advice and to plan your perfect trip!

Discover Queensland – Paradise For Tourists

For holiday makers in Australia, Airlie Beach in the Whitsunday area which is situated in Queensland is a town that is recognized as one of the favorite destination for a great number of scenic charms and attractions. Since it is geographically close to the Great Barrier Reef, it is called the “Heart of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef”. And there are numerous hotels for the tourists’ comfortable lodgings to choose from, so take your pick.

Flights to the Gold Coast area will take you into Brisbane International Airport. From there its a 45 minute journey north. Connecting flights to get to Brisbane can be taken from Melbourne, Sydney, Singapore, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur – you name it.

It really goes without saying that finding accommodation to suit your requirements has never been easier than it is now. Just have a look on the internet to accommodation in Queensland, or in Brisbane or Airlie Beach or where ever is your preference. You will find a plethora of hotels, motels, all forms of accommodation – even tents in the outback, if you are so inclined.

What to see in the Gold Coast
If you want to see a lot but your time is somewhat limited then you will need to plan meticulously. There is too much to see and do in a short space of time and the amount of traveling is incredible. After all, Queensland is 715 thousand square miles in area or 1,853,000 square km. Compare that to the United Kingdom which is only 245,000 square km.

The beach is undoubtedly the biggest tourist pull to Queensland and with the added attraction of the Great Barrier Reef its really no wonder at all that this is so. There is sailing, jet skiing, yachting, water skiing, cruises, windsurfing, scuba diving, snorkelling – any water activity and its all here. So plenty to keep the kids entertained while you chill out and relax and unwind.

Learn more about Airlie Beach hotels and Airlie Beach Australia.

5 Beautiful Holiday Destinations In Australia

Byron Bay
This is a seaside town situated in Northern New South Wales. It has many magnificent eastern points. Cavvanbah, as it was known in the Australian “dream period”, was a place where native Aborigines used to trade goods, find marriage partners and congregate to swap stories. This place now is a magnet for tourists. It is ideal if you are looking for the small beach town type of holiday. It is also home to some of the best music festivals of Australia. This includes Splendor In The Grass and East Coast Blues & Roots Music Festival. It also happens to be a very famous whale watching destination especially during the humpback whale’s winter migration.

Mount Tamborine
High above the Gold Coast, on a plateau, Mount Tamborine is a destination for those who love nature or hiking. The restaurants, hotels, and spa retreats as well as multifarious rainforest trails, waterfalls and streams provide plentiful reason to be there. No doubt it is undergoing a boom in tourism industry as it has something for every tourist. There is a local produce market held on the 2nd Sunday of each month.

Airlie Beach
This town is very near to the GBR, in the Whitsunday region (Queensland), Australia. Bathers may find it tricky to enter the water at certain times of the year due to “stingers” such as Box jellyfish. Still, the good news is that the local council has built a protected lagoon that allows safer swimming and is accessible 365 days each year. Blessing Of The Feet Festival is the ideal time to visit Airlie. This fest was started by Father Keith Felgate on Whit or Pentecost Sunday.

Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains at 1,190 meters high, is a spectacular place, with its strange and beautiful blue haze, 7 designated conservation reserves and national parks, waterfalls, and sandstone cliffs. It covers an area of about 10,000 sq km. It has been declared as a World Heritage Area by UNESCO as recently as 2009.

Yamba
Australian Traveller Magazine voted this region as No. 1 Australian town in 2009. It is a magnificent seaside holiday destination. The accommodation is handy for every tourist, from luxury hotels and resorts to economical and discounted but comfortable residences.

Learn more about Airlie Beach hotels and Airlie Beach Australia.

All About Hawaii – 3 Tips to Having a Dream Holiday

I think it is impossible to visit Hawaii and not experience the holiday of a lifetime.

I have chosen the top three reasons for visiting Hawaii. There is a lot to Hawaii and once you are there you will learn all about Hawaii and it amazing cultures.

1. Perfect Relaxing Holiday – However active you are, rest is still important, especially on a holiday. It is easy to relax in Hawaii as the surroundings are so beautiful. In Hawaii a rest doesn’t have to mean lying down, even a stroll along the beach or down to a local caf, will feel relaxing as there is not the hassle and pressure of busy living.

2. Fun Outdoors – If your idea of a holiday is having plenty of activities and sports to try, then Hawaii can keep you busy.The beaches of Hawaii offer a wide range of activities including snorkeling, diving, windsurfing, and much more. However, the activities are not limited to the beach. Hawaii is a group of volcanic islands and this has created mountains to climb which offer a great experience and amazing scenery.

3. The Culture Of Hawaii – No one knows exactly when the Hawaiian islands were first inhabited, but the natives are determined that their culture will not get wiped out and as a result there are often traditional festivals. As a visitor to the island you will still get an opportunity to learn about and experience this vibrant way of life.

Hawaii is a well known destination for weddings, but it is also a great place to visit with a family. Whatever you are hoping to do on your holiday, Hawaii will probably offer it.

The kids will love the outdoor life of Hawaii. This is a great opportunity for them to try lots of different sports and you can organize lessons or book them into a kids club, so you will also get some time out. Equally, if you are all going to spend your time together there are plenty of relaxing ways to pass the time as a family.

I am sure that you will have a great Hawaiian holiday.

Fiery Arenal Volcano Of Costa Rica

All our luggage and camera gear is packed in the van by 8 a.m. and we are on our way to our first destination, soon to become a real life adventure. We are on a photography tour so everyone is talking cameras and pictures. This is the first day, we are getting to know one another, and the level of excitement in the van is high looking forward to the tour.

Arenal, an active Costa Rica volcano, is our destination but first there are a couple of photography stops along the way. We go first to the little Tico community of Sarchi where brightly colored, decorated oxen carts are made in an old water powered factory. The second stop is nearby Zarcero, which has, as its focal point, an old wooden church and a double row of lovely topiaries leading up to it. Many memory cards are filled just photographing these two places with the magnificent colours and patterns of Sarchi and the incredible shapes of the topiaries in Zarcero.

Luis, our driver, is very familiar with the many potholes that make Costa Rica famous, so he cautiously makes his way along the road while most everyone else, on 2 or 4 wheels, pass us by. The number of wannabe Formula One drivers in Costa Rica is staggering. There is even a bus driver who has been known to have passengers find religion and speak directly to God on his overland route.

After our planned stops and lunch in La Fortuna we are now just a few miles from our lodge at Arenal. As we leave the main highway we find ourselves on a road that is one continuous pothole. It is January and the rainy season has just ended so most roads are in poor condition but what is unique about this road is that it was constructed from crushed lava rock.

Rounding a curve we see a clearing beside a tropical river and there is the perfect cone shape of Arenal Volcano! Those who have never seen a volcano are stunned at the sight.

The top of the cone is shrouded with little fluffy white clouds against a blue sky. It is picture perfect and we quickly stop and everyone piles out of the van attaching cameras to tripods, some of us wading into the river to capture an image from a different perspective and others shooting from the riverbanks.

Who is to say how dangerous being this close to an active volcano can be? Fortunately, Arenal is very predictable and today is closely monitored so there is a very low risk of a serious, catastrophic, unexpected eruption. Only 1 km away from the base of the volcano and 2 km to the top of the cone is the lodge where we stay and without a doubt any activity attracts the attention of everyone.

Getting settled in while we are unpacking mighty Arenal speaks! It roars as smoke and gas billow hundreds of feet into the sky and we hear the rocks tumbling down the slopes. The Mantled Howler monkeys are extremely vocal following the eruption, however, we do not know if this is in protest of the roar or if they are just responding to its call.

While enjoying our meal in the lodge dining room mighty Arenal speaks again! Although there are many photo opportunities in Costa Rica, who would have imagined that while eating dinner we would be gazing up at a volcano erupting in front of our eyes? And this on our very first day of the tour!

The next two nights are without much sleep since we find comfortable chairs in the common area of the lodge just outside our rooms and we mount our cameras on tripods attaching cable releases. Since I had already been to Arenal many times I had chosen to use an 80-200mm lens set at 80mm and an aperture of f8, the camera shutter set at “B” for time exposure.

I think a time exposure of more than 20 minutes will produce an ugly yellow blob of light since there is a lot of activity of small flare-ups at the cone. Lava is flowing down the opposite side, so I allow no more than 20 minutes to pass before I closing the shutter and starting another exposure. The use of a cable release makes these exposures very easy and while we were there Arenal puts on quite a pyrotechnical show.

Arenal is the first adventure in Costa Rica for my photo group. With another eight days of photography everybody is looking forward to the next destination that is going to be just as exciting.

Riding Your Bike Through Vienna, Budapest & More

Germany Tours For Your Vacation Fun

Germany is a large country located in Central Europe. It’s loaded with culture and tradition as well as being a popular vacation hideaway. It’s a neighbor to Czech Republic, Poland, Denmark, Switzerland, Austria, France, Belgium and the Netherlands. These are all exciting countries as well. Berlin is the capital city of Germany and a cultural city in its own right. It’s not been that long since Germany was divided into West and East.

Berlin Wall

Everyone has heard of the Berlin Wall and its place in history when it separated families and countries many years ago. It goes across the entire country but is only actually a wall in Berlin. In other areas, it consists of nothing more than a barbed wire fence to keep specific people in or out. The Berlin Wall is included in most tours of Germany, because of its importance to the history of Germany.

Black Forest

The Black Forest of Germany is usually included in tours of Germany. Although it’s just a lot of dense forest with big pine trees, it carries with it many tales of magic and witches from years past. Today, it plays a large part in tours and vacation sites. It is also the host to many vacationers wishing to swim or bike in the summer and participate in winter sports in the winter.

Rhine Valley And Oktoberfest

The Rhine Valley is another famous tourist attraction in Germany. You’ll be amazed at the beauty of all the vineyards, castles and cathedrals you’ll see in this area. It’s full of history and culture, which will be explained if you’re part of a guided tour.

If you choose to take your Germany vacation in Munich in October, you’ll be lucky enough to enjoy the Oktoberfest. This is one of the most anticipated events. They have a huge festival for the farmers to celebrate their crops. You’ll see a lot of eating and beer drinking, giving you a true sample of their cuisine.

Germany is a beautiful country full of beautiful natural resources including lakes and mountains. Because there are so many things to do and see in Germany, make sure you specify which things interest you.

One activity that is becoming hugely popular on vacations abroad are bike tours. Most cities have a bike touring company that can help you plan your tour. Bike tours can be individual, group tours or customized tours covering a few miles to many miles and going on for days. It’s a lot of fun to be able to sight see on a tour on a bike. Vienna, Budapest, Austria and Hungary are just a few of the cities you can see on an extended bike tour.

Read full articles about Austria bike tours and cycling Europe available here at this web.

Learn All About A Spain Bike Tour

Golf Vacations in Spain

Many people choose to go to Spain as their holiday vacation destination. Years ago the favorite vacation spots of most couples and families was Florida and the infamous Disney world. While this is still a favorite and wonderful vacation location, many are choosing to “expand their horizon” and travel abroad. Spain is a location that is being chosen by many people today for their holiday vacation. There are many types of Spain vacations, golf vacations, Spain bike tour vacation; sightseeing, etc. and one of the most popular are golf vacations.

What are Golf Vacations?

Golf Vacations in Spain are more than just the typical tours and sightseeing one normally sees on vacation. You are transported to different golf courses around the area, where you and your friends or family will play a round or two of golf. These golf vacations are very popular with golf enthusiasts. It gives them a chance to spend some time together while they’re doing their favorite pastime. And all of this is while on vacation.

Atlantic Golf

If a golf vacation in Spain is what you’re interested in, there are a few popular and well-known companies such as Atlantic Golf and Hotel Golf. Atlantic Golf specializes in customizing golf vacations to Spain so you’ll have exactly what you want. They also work with golf vacations to Scotland, Ireland, England and Wales. Atlantic Golf has been around since the 1990s making people satisfied and happy with their golf vacations. Atlantic Golf is one of the most knowledgeable and experienced companies in the golf travel business.

Hotel Golf is another option for your golf vacation in Spain. Hotel Golf is a website that lists any information you may need regarding your golf holiday in Spain. Some of the things you will find on Hotel Golf are the best golf resorts in Spain. This golf resorts will either have golf courses located on their premises or nearby.

Vacations are a very big thing and should be planned accordingly. While budget is a large concern for most people, other things should be taken into consideration when planning your golf vacation in Spain. Finding the golf vacation package that will best suit your needs is as important as finding the most affordable one. Combining these factors is going to take time, but with patience, you’ll find the perfect vacation spot. Always read the fine print and ask questions if you’re not sure of every little detail.

Read full articles about Spain bicycle tours and tours in Spain at this web.

Bicycle Touring Italy Style

Finding An Affordable Italy Vacation

During your search for an Italy vacation, you’ll find many companies offering Italy vacations and vacation packages. While they’re all going to sound exciting and perfect, if your budget is a consideration, you need to take time deciding. Check out all the available options in each Italy vacation package. Decide which of these options you’ll want on your trip and then compare prices. You’ll want to get the best value for your money, while not paying for things that you won’t benefit from.

Your Best Options For An Italy Vacation

When you decide to narrow down the many available Italy vacation packages, try to stay with reputable companies that are willing to give you a good deal. Select Italy, is a global family company that offers some great Italy packages. These trips will provide some extraordinary Italian heritage. Select Italy has always been committed to offering their customers only superior service while giving them an affordable vacation package. They have guide that are incredibly knowledgeable in the subjects of art history, archeology and Italian culture. They know the area well and can help you find the Italy vacation package to suit you and your personal preferences.

Another excellent company to check is Virgin Vacations. They are well known in the travel world and offer some great Italy vacation packages. Since 1994, they’re main goal as been providing their customers with inclusive vacation packages to Italy, London and beyond. They offer the finest in service and value for your money. Virgin Vacations is partners with many hotels and will do their best to set you up in an excellent hotel that will also suit your budget.

The Final Decision

When deciding on which vacation company to go with, the two things you need to keep in mind are quality and price. You don’t want the cheapest vacation you can find if it’s not giving you what you want. Alternatively, you won’t enjoy having the highest quality vacation if you can’t afford it. So, check over the vacation packages, determine what you will use and what you can afford.

Attractions in Italy

While many Italy vacation plans include some activities, many of them leave you with a lot of time to yourself. You’ll want to make plans ahead of time on things you want to do and places you want to see. If you enjoy bicycle touring, Italy has many touring companies that will provide everything you need to enjoy a bicycle tour.

African Wildlife Safari: Enjoy the Finest at Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park, the oldest and most popular game park in South Africa, is undoubtedly the best place to observe African wildlife. Every year, about one million travelers visit this wildlife sanctuary, attesting to Kruger’s claim to the top spot. Kruger’s history dates back to 1898 when the Sabi Game Reserve was established to stem the destruction of the wildlife by hunters. Paul Kruger was at that time the President of the Transvaal Republic, which later became part of the Union of South Africa. The park was later named after him.

The Kruger ecosystem is widely varied, with six rivers spawning the 16 vegetation zones in the park. With an average altitude of 269 meters above sea level, the park is mostly flat. Kruger occupies a vast stretch of land from the Crocodile river in the south, running 350km along the South Africa-Mozambique border, to the Limpopo River in the north.

The lush and wooded Mpumalanga region in the south of of this 20,000 sq km reserve is the most popular with visitors. Five gates give you access to this area: Crocodile Bridge, Phabeni, Paul Kruger, Numbi, and Malelane. For the more adventurous travelers, the arid northern and central sections in the Limpopo region are ideal destinations. An air of mystery is associated with this region, and as a result has fewer visitors. The Orpen and Phalaborwa gates are its main access points.

The great wildlife diversity is what makes Kruger the most celebrated national park in South Africa. The hundreds of species found here include 114 reptiles, 147 mammals, 49 fish, 507 birds, and 336 tree species. Kruger is without doubt the best place to view the African big five ” Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Elephant, and Buffalo.

In addition to the big five, the other abundant animals include hippos, giraffes, baboons, impala, warthogs, and zebra. Together with the plant life, these animals form complete food chains, attracting many researchers conducting scientific studies of animal behavior.

You can access Kruger through nine gates, which are connected to the national road network by tarred roads. From Pafuri Gate in the north to Malelane Gate in the south is a 414 km drive. Once inside the park, it is obligatory to take a game drive. You may chose either a self-navigated game drive, or take a ranger guide as an escort. Kruger allows night game drives, when you can encounter nocturnal animals- bush babies, leopards, hyenas, owls and nightjars.

Most visitors take game drives aboard a vehicle on regular trails. But ranger guided walking safaris are available to more adventurous spirits. On any of the seven guided wilderness trails for walkers, you take in nature’s aromas as you view game up close. The trails include three nights stay in a wilderness camp. This option is quite popular and early booking is advised.

There are several means of getting to Kruger national park including scheduled flights from Cape town, Johannesburg, or Durban. The main airports where Kruger flights land are Kruger/Mpumalanga International airport, Phalaborwa airport, and Hoedspruit airport. Chartered flights are also available to the above airports and to the East Gate airport, from where you can also hire rental cars for your safari. Accommodation in Kruger ranges from self-catering and camping sites to more expensive luxury lodges, catering to different likes and budgets of travelers.