You set your mind and you’re ready to travel to South America, a magical place of immense beauty where myth and legend continue to walk hand in hand. I’ve traveled 18 months in South America and can give you some tips on how to prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure.

Common Sense

We all hear the unpleasant stories and South America has a fame of being dangerous. I traveled thousands of miles traversing cities, jungles, islands and mountains. I survived 6 weeks in a street child care center in the favelas of Salvador da Bahía (Brazil) and had the party of a lifetime during carnival. Nothing, I repeat, nothing happened. Use your common sense. Avoid badly lit streets at night and if your sixth sense is giving you the “something is wrong” sign then take a taxi to your destination.

South America Travel

Travel Guide Book

The first thing that you will need is a travel guide book. It will be your best companion in your search for adventure. I can highly recommend Lonely Planet´s South America on a Shoestring
to get you started. The book covers all you need to know to get the most out of your trip and is ideal to plan your journey ahead. I’ve used the guide extensively during my 18 month adventure. They offer excellent separate travel guides of all the countries (besides using the Lonely Planet Shoestring I’ve used their separate travel guides of Peru and Brazil). Their guides are the most popular among backpackers.

Other popular guides are The Rough Guide to South America and the South American Handbook. Ideal, but not practical because you want to travel light, would be to enjoy the adventure with a Lonely Planet and either the Rough Guide or the Handbook.

Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese

The most rewarding thing for me was the fact that you can travel in a huge continent like South America with only 2 languages. Spanish and Portuguese. If you plan to travel just for a few weeks you can invest in a Spanish and/or Brazilian Portuguese Phrase Book. English is not widely spoken and even a basic knowledge of Spanish and/or Portuguese makes the trip so much more rewarding (they’re extremely willing to help you, so don’t worry, be happy).

If on the other hand you’re planning to travel for a few months I can highly recommend taking a language course. Ideal would be in a school in South America (I took lessons in Quito, Ecuador, and had a private teacher for $2.50/h).

Walking Shoes

South America’s nature is overwhelming. You’ll walk for many hours day after day. It would be a shame to walk in the footsteps of the Incas with blisters on your feet. My biggest recommendation is to invest in high quality walking shoes with Gore-Tex.

Health Vaccinations

Yellow Fever (if you plan to go to the Amazon Basin), Typhoid (consists of two injections taken 4 weeks apart), Diphtheria-Tetanus, Polio, Cholera (only when necessary), Smallpox

Medical Kit:

Depending on what you plan to do you can include the following:
Antiseptic cream, aspirin, lomotil for diarrhea, antibiotics, throat lozenges, ear and eye drops, antacid tablets, motion sickness medication, alcohol swabs, water purifier, lip salve, foot and groin powder, thermometer (in a case), surgical tape, assorted sticky plasters, gauze, bandages, butterfly closures, scissors and last but not least, first-aid booklet

Note: malaria pills are required in the amazon basin, please be aware that those pills are very b and you should check with your doctor before departure

Traveling Gear

Backpack:

Obviously a high quality backpack is a must. Choose the type that has different compartments that can be opened separately. Very handy if you need something quickly. Travel as light as possible. A heavy backpack is destined to undermine your traveling pleasure.

Clothing:

Depends on where you go. If it’s the mountains and the jungle, get some quality clothing from home. If it’s the beach, buy your t-shirts there (cheap).

Traveling to South America

Camping and Climbing Gear:

You can rent camping and climbing material in South America but the quality may be questionable. Always check the material. Bring your own gear if possible. I traveled 18 months with my own tent and various camping utensils.

Photography

Pictures are something personal. Some people just want some snap shots, others want to publish in the National Geographic. All my pictures were taken with a cheap Nikon F50 camera.

I had two zoom lenses, a 35-80 mm. and a 70-210mm. I also dragged a tripod and an excellent flash with me. I used FUJI slides (100 ASA) but you definitely need 200 to 400 ASA if you plan to go to the jungle. A polarize filter enhances the colours tremendously on sunny days.

Conclusion

South America will embrace you with open arms. It’s nature, people and history are overwhelming. With the right preparation and set of mind you’re ready for an unforgettable adventure.

Hotels in South Beach
Hotels in South Bend

Travel To South America: How To Start

Situated on the Adriatic coast is a small and beautiful country called Croatia. Famous for its sprawling Yacht industry, the place is growing as a tourist destination. Croatia has everything on offer for the average tourist. Nature lover, adventure seeker, History enthusiast or shopping lover, Croatia will definitely satisfy them with its splendor. Nature lovers have everything to choose from including Scuba diving, mountain biking, hiking and much more. The country also has a unique history. It was earlier a part of Yugoslavia. It also has a mixture of cuisines and many internationally recognized hotels.

Croatia Holiday

Nature’s Bounty
It has miles of beautiful unexplored coastline. White sands, clear blue waters and coral reefs, the coasts of Croatia have it all. Croatia also has magnificent mountains and clean rivers. Tourists usually come to Croatia for its beaches and sand, but nature lovers can never miss the 8 national parks over here. The parks are overflowing with Flora and Fauna and cascading waterfalls. The wildlife here is varied from the bear, wild sheep to the Lynx. Most of the land over here is protected. There are some 44 types of herbal species, which are protected, and 381 species of wildlife.

Zagreb – The Capital
There are many unexplored caves, mountains etc in the forests. If that was nature, the shopping and nightlife in Croatia is sprawling as well. Head off straight to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia and explore the museums that the place has. Zagreb is also called the city of museums, as there are more museums per square foot in this place than any other place in the world. This place is not so popular with tourists and hence you can enjoy a silent evening sitting in one of the cafes and simply watch the world go by.

Trogir
Trogir is another magnificent city that Croatia has to offer. This is one of the best places to stop on the Dalmatian coast. St.Lawrence church is one of the grandest structures in Trogir. Besides this, Croatia also has over 20 naturist resorts, nudist beaches and a lot more.

Keep your passports and other documents in order while entering Croatia to ensure a safe and pleasurable trip without hassle.

Sailing across Croatia’s eye-catching coastline is a wonderful experience. The country’s tourism industry has been flagged up because of Croatia’s cruising and yachting industries. With more than 1,180 islands and 3,000-mile long coastline, one can feel the grandeur of the magic the country can bring. In 2005 alone, there are approximately 10 million tourists in Croatia with most of them wanting to take a quick look at the Adriatic and Mediterranean Seas.

Croatia Travel

If you want to sail in Croatia’s southern regions, start your journey in the port of Dubrovnik. It is one of Croatia’s most visited tourist attractions, especially by yacht enthusiasts, because of its close proximity to Adriatic Sea. The city of Dubrovnik, which has a population of about 45,000, is also a cultural center because of its medieval urban walls, historic Rector Palace, and remarkable old-fashioned convents. I highly recommend that you take a couple of days of your charter and stay in a local hotel in the city. As a general guide you should regard Split to Dubrovnik as a minimum of a one week trip and give it two weeks if you need to start and finish in the same marina.

Aside from Dubrovnik, yacht charter Croatia include the ports of Zadar, Baska Voda, Vodice, Split, Pula, Biograd, Kastela, Porec, Rovinj, and Marina.

Porec is located in Croatia’s western coast along the cape of Istrian. It is a city administered in the Istria County. Porec is an ideal harbor if you want to sail to Saint Nicholas Island. The city’s climate is mild and gentle. Unlike other regions of Croatia, its summer heat is not harsh. The hottest month is August while the coldest month is January. The temperature of Porec’s sea is 28° C, which is not too hot and not to cold. This condition is perfect for diving, snorkeling, and / or just hanging around in your yacht. The city’s main historical tourist attractions are the Euphrasian Basilica, Dieta Istriana Hall, Marafor, and the ancient streets of Cardo Maximus and Decumanus.

Croatia – The Country Of A Thousand Islands

Sailing in Croatia is available everyday. Typically, you can sail the country’s shores 365 days a year. But, the best time to cruise the Croatian coast is from the months of April (spring season) to October (autumn season). During this period, the weather is so nice and the sea relatively calm. However, the spring season sometimes has rain showers. Nevertheless, with the country’s approximately 3,000-mile long coastline and 1,180 islands, you can never have enough of Croatia’s coasts.

Hotels in Croatia

Turkey is a country of diversity, stunning scenery, warm hospitality, and a whole range of resorts and activities to suit all tastes. A country spanning two continents where east meets west and 10,000 years of civilisation, Turkey is a treasure trove of history and culture.

Weather in Turkey – Southern Mediterranean and Aegean Coasts

Turkey‘s Mediterranean and Aegean coasts boast a perfect Mediterranean climate with low humidity. The long, extended summer runs between May and October with temperatures ranging from the low 20°Cs at the beginning and end of the season, up to the mid 30°Cs in the hottest months of July and August.

During spring, the scent of citrus blossoms fills the air, the hills and valleys are green with vegetation and the cool, sunny days are ideal for hiking and sightseeing. During the autumn months it is a pleasure to visit historical and natural sites in the cool weather or to buy up bargains at end-of-season sales! Winters tend to be mild with some sun, and occasional showers, and it is not unusual to be able to swim in the sea even in November.

Antalya Turkey Holidays

Turkish Culture

The mix of cultural influences and traditions in Turkey is one of the things that draw tourists to the country. Turkey has a rich cultural heritage with a long history of influences from both Europe and Asia, which is reflected in the complexity and diversity of certain Turkish arts, language and handicrafts. Turks are proud of their centuries-old musical tradition, which is similar to the music of nearby Islamic regions such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, and northern India. A cosmopolitan nation, Turkey has also adopted and developed ideas and traditions that combine Western, Asian, and Arabic elements.

The Family

Turkish family units are extremely important. Children often stay with their families until they get married and then continue to be the main focus of their families’ lives. Grandparents are often available to look after the children allowing the parents to go out to work. There is a great respect for elders in Turkish Culture and you can often see the younger generation kissing an elder’s hand and then touching the forehead as a sign of respect.

Turkish Women

Equal rights for women were officially added to the civil code in 2002, so women now have equal say in relation to family matters and property and assets are divided equally in the event of a divorce. Women no longer need their husbands consent to obtain jobs and they are also entitled to continue using their maiden name if they wish once they are married.

The Evil Eye

The ‘evil eye’ is an ancient belief and is one of the most widespread superstitions in Turkey. It is believed that the ‘evil eye’ is created by feelings of extreme envy towards a person or object and that it can cast a spell on the object of it’s gaze bringing bad fortune. The ‘nazar boncuk’ or ‘evil eye bead’ is actually a benevolent eye used to ward off harm and evil. It can be seen providing protection everywhere – in homes and buildings, in the car, and they are even worn by babies and young children.

Hamam

The Hamam, or Turkish Bath, was a Roman and Byzantine tradition which was adopted by the Selcuk Turks in the 11th century and has been part of the Turkish Culture and a way of life ever since. It claimed an important role in society as not only was it a place where the faithful could follow the Muslim precept of cleanliness, it was also a place in which to socialize, gossip and even talk business or politics. The exfoliation, bathing and massage routine provide both a relaxing and exhilarating experience. Today Hamams can be found in most Turkish towns and cities and are they are popular with both locals and tourists alike.

Family Holidays in Turkey

Turks love children and always extend a warm welcome to our young holidaymakers. There are many activities in Turkey which will keep children happy, the most popular being spending time on the gently shelving beaches which are ideal for families. For the more active, walking, horse riding, cycling and watersports are available.

Did you know?

Turkey is home to two of the Seven Wonders of the World, the temple of Artemis at Ephesus, and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (present day Bodrum)

St Nicholas, popularly known as Santa Claus, was born and lived in Turkey

Noah’s Ark is said to have landed at Mount Ararat in Eastern Turkey

Turkey provides 70% of the world’s hazelnuts

Gave the English language many words including chock-a block, turquoise, yoghurt, kismet, kilim and parchment

Turkey first introduced tulips to Holland and today still supplies tulips worldwide. The tulip is also Turkey’s national flower

Turkey was the first ever land to mind and use coins 2700 years ago by the Lydians

Turkey has the world’s first female Supreme Court Judge, and gave the women the right to vote in 1934

Religion

Whilst the population of Turkey is about 99% Muslim, the country is a secular state which allows complete freedom of worship to non-muslims. Tourists visiting coastal resorts are unlikely to see much evidence that they are in a Muslim country, except for the call to prayer which can be heard 5 times per day. If visiting a mosque, dress conservatively and avoid visiting during prayer times or on Fridays, the holy day. On the coast, dress is generally relaxed beachwear for locals and tourists alike. It is only in smaller villages, more remote areas and the east of the country that the dress codes are more formal and more traditional.

During Ramadan, or Ramazan, as it is known in Turkey, some locals may fast from sunrise to sunset. This is quite relaxed in the resort areas and should not have any affect at all to visitors.

Public Holidays in Turkey

Government offices and banks will be closed on public holidays, but life in the resort areas continues much as usual. Money exchange bureaux and most shops and restaurants open as normal.

History of Turkey

Historically known as Asia Minor or Anatolia, this vast region reflects a remarkable and fascinating history with settled habitation dating back to the eighth millennium BC. Anatolia has seen virtually every major western civilisation come and go including the Assyrians, Hittities, Phrygians, Urartian, Greeks and Romans. Treasured artefacts, including what is believed to be the first landscape picture ever painted were left behind and are displayed at Ankara’s Museum of Anatolian Civilisations. Many of the museums’ artefacts are the only clues we have to the earliest civilisations.

Some of the finest sites emerged from the Hellenistic period such as the remains of ancient Troy and the ruined settlements of Lycia. The most impressive of them all is ancient Ephesus. It is believed that the Virgin Mary spent her last days in a small house on the edge of Ephesus whilst St John the Evangelist came to look after her. Now a place of Pilgrimage for Roman Catholics, the house has received the official sanction of the Vatican.

In 560 BC the King of Persia, Cyrus, conquered everybody and everything and soon subjected the Aegean cities to his rule. However, 200 years later they were defeated by Alexander the Great. He led the Macedonians eastward across Anatolia as far as India in pursuit of gaining the domination of Asia. Sure enough, he rapidly conquered the entire Middle East, from Greece to India.

Following its conquest by Rome in the 2nd century BC, Asia Minor enjoyed centuries of peace. During the Middle Ages as part of the Byzantine Empire it became a centre of Christianity.

The Great Seljuk Empire, based in Persia, was the first real Turkish state in Anatolia. This empire had a distinctive culture with beautiful architecture and design. The Seljuks Empire quickly declined with Anatolia fragmented into a number of small emirates. The Turks gradually moved in on these states one by one which eventually grew to be the largest empire in recent history, the Ottoman Empire. The Ottomans ruled for more than six centuries until 1922. The following year, Asia Minor became the larger part of the Turkish Republic led by Ataturk.

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk was the main drive behind the development of modern Turkey. The former army officer became Turkey’s first President and steered the country from the wreckage of the Ottoman Empire. Ataturk introduced dramatic reforms that touched upon every aspect of Turkish life. There were many significant changes including replacing the Arabic script with Latin characters. Primary education was made compulsory and religious law was abolished. Women were granted equal rights in matters of custody and inheritance and by 1934 women’s rights had extended to Universal Suffrage.

Ataturk was and still is a national hero- a massive presence in the long history of Turkey. In every town and village you will find reminders of the leader everywhere you turn. As time goes by Ataturk becomes even more of a hero as the country’s people recognize his extraordinary influence in making Turkey what it is today.

Turkish Food & Drink

Turkish food is amongst the best in the world. With enough climatic zones to grow most ingredients locally, there is a vast array of produce to excite and entice the palate.
Besides its famous kebab dishes, there are many other traditional Turkish foods to choose from. Meze (appetisers) for which Turkey is justly famous, are a range of hundreds of small dishes from simple combinations such as cheese with melon to elaborately stuffed vegetables. These are served in all Turkish restaurants and are traditionally accompanied with Raki, a clear anise- flavoured spirit claimed to be Turkey’s national alcoholic drink.

Turkey’s most popular beers are the home produced Efes Pilsen and Tuborg, and whilst the wine industry has yet to realise it’s full potential, Kavaklidere and Doluca, the best known brands, produce a selection of both red and white wines.

Shopping in Turkey offers the most unusual and diverse range of gifts tempting even the non-shoppers amongst us.

Traditional handicrafts such as carpets, kilims, copper goods, painted ceramics and jewellery are popular buys, along with a good selection of leather goods, sandals and beachwear which can be found in most of the larger resorts.

In tourist and coastal areas, opening hours are quite flexible and during the summer many shops stay open until late in the evening, seven days a week, leaving tourists to browse at their leisure and escape the heat of the day.

In souvenir shops and stalls, it’s always worth trying a spot of haggling. For food shopping, local minimarkets provide basic essentials, whilst the supermarkets found near the larger resorts are similar to those we are used to at home. Most resorts have a weekly market selling local produce, crafts and textiles and are well worth a visit.

Transport

Hiring a car is one of the best ways to get out and about, giving you the freedom to explore at your leisure.

Local transport within the towns and resorts consists of dolmus or minibuses (taxis) that run from one point to another and you can hop on and off anywhere along the route and pay according to the distance travelled.

Things to do in Turkey

Turkey offers a wide variety of activities for couples and families alike.

Watersports including windsurfing, parasailing, jet skiing and canoeing are popular on designated beaches in or near many of the larger resorts. Scuba diving is also widely available, and the calm, clear waters are ideal for beginners and novice divers. Walking and trekking are becoming increasingly popular and they offer one of the best ways to explore the countryside.

Currency in Turkey

Turkish Lira (TL) is the official currency in Turkey.  It can be purchased from your bank in advance, in which case we would advise you to order at least two weeks before your departure date. Alternatively you can change money, or travellers cheques once you have arrived in Turkey. It’s easy to change up all major currencies in exchange offices, post offices and hotels. Exchange offices are also located in the arrivals halls at most Turkish aiports.

Istanbul Kiz Kule

Currency can be also obtained from ATM/cash machines throughout Turkey, providing the symbols on the machine match those on your debit/cash card. Your bank should be able to give you further information on using your card abroad. If you do find yourself short of Turkish Lira at any point, many shops and restaurants in the coastal resorts and larger cities will accept payment in foreign currency. But if you are planning to travel to other parts of the country, it is advisable to carry some Turkish Lira.

The New Turkish Lira comes in notes of 5,10, 20, 50 and 100. The coins, called New Kurus (Ykr), come in 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 and one New Turkish Lira. One hundred New Kurus equals one New Turkish Lira.

Please note that Scottish currency is not accepted in Turkey. It is also worth noting that they may not accept any foreign bank notes for exhange which are ripped or have been scribbled on.

Passports & Visas

British citizens require a standard ten year passport which must be valid for at least six months after the date of arrival back in the UK. Children under 16 years require their own passport if not already on a parents passport before October 1998.

British citizens (including infants) have to pay a tourist visa of £10 upon arrival. This must be paid in note form in cash. Scottish currency is not accepted in Turkey.

Full details and application forms for a full British passport can be obtained from main post offices or direct from the Passport Office.

Non UK passport holders are recommended to contact the appropriate Embassy in London as to their visa fee.

Turkey Time Difference

Turkey is two hours ahead of the UK. It is a good idea to adjust your watch as soon as you arrive, as any airline timetables are expressed in local time.

Vaccinations for Turkey

No vaccination certificates are compulsory for entry to Turkey. You should always check with your doctor, in good time prior to departure, if there are any inoculations the Department of Health consider necessary or advisable for any specific areas.

When To Go

The main season for visitors to Turkey’s western Aegean and Mediterranean coastal resorts is between May to October, when the weather is settled and the days are long and sunny.
Temperatures range from the mid 20°Cs early and late season, to the mid 30°Cs during the peak season of July and August which is also the most popular time to visit when all the activities are in full swing. The sea temperatures are warm and ideal for swimming throughout the summer, and it is not unusual to be able to swim in the sea even in November.

In the coastal resorts we have a selection of properties suitable for occupation in late autumn, winter and early spring where you can discover the changing seasons. Please contact us for further information. There may be an additional charge for heating. The Turkish resorts do quieten down in winter and many facilities available during the summer months may not be available during winter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be able to use my mobile phone?
Generally speaking, mobile phone coverage in Turkey is very good – the exception being some of the more remote and/or mountainous areas. It is important to remember that when using a British mobile phone, in Turkey, to contact our overseas offices and staff, even though you are linking up to the local network your call must be prefixed by 00 90 and you should then drop the first 0 of the Turkish phone number.

What currency will I require?
Turkish Lira (TL) is the official currency in Turkey. Currency can be purchased in the UK but we advise you to order at least two weeks before your departure date to avoid any last minute rush. Once in Turkey, it’s easy to change up all major currencies in exchange offices, post offices (PTTs) and hotels. Currency can be also obtained from ATM/cash machines throughout Turkey, providing the symbols on the machine match those on your debit/cash card. Your bank should be able to give you further information on using your card abroad. If you do find yourself short of Turkish Lira at any point, foreign currency, including pounds sterling, is readily accepted in many shops, hotels and restaurants in the tourist areas.

Travellers Cheques or Credit Cards?
Credit cards are now very widely accepted in shops and some restaurants in the main towns and resorts. Though you should always check beforehand if you intend to have a meal and pay afterwards using the card. Many small, family run restaurants or establishments may not accept cards. The smaller villages and places ‘off the beaten track’ may also not accept credit cards so have some cash handy.
Currency can be obtained from ATM/cash machines throughout Turkey, providing the symbols on the machine match those on your debit/cash card. Your bank should be able to give you further information on using your card abroad. Travellers Cheques can be cashed at banks, exchange bureaux and most of the larger hotels.

What is the voltage and do we need to use adaptors?
The current is 220 V. Wall sockets take two rounded pin plugs, like many European countries. You will need an adapter plug to use UK appliances.

Is there a time difference?
Yes, Turkey is on GMT + 2 (daylight saving GMT +3 operates between late March to late September). This means that for most of the year, Turkey is two hours ahead of the UK. It is a good idea to adjust your watch as soon as you arrive in Turkey.

What should I take?
You can now find most western goods, including holiday essentials such as suntan and aftersun lotions, insect and mosquito repellents, and such like in most of the larger resorts and supermarkets. Taking these items with you saves time and also ensures that you can find your preferred brands. It’s worth taking a high protection sunscreen, especially during high season when temperatures can soar, a wide-brimmed sun hat, and a mosquito repellent both for your room and a spray for yourself when you are outside in the evenings. Also do take a European-type 2 pin adaptor for your electrical equipment – these can be difficult to find in Turkey. A photocopy of your passport is useful to keep on you as a means of ID, and if you are driving, a copy of your license as well to keep in the car.

Are shops open on the day of our arrival?
During the summer season, and especially in the resort areas, supermarkets, minimarkets and many shops are open daily, often till early evening.
As a general guideline opening days and times are as follows:

Banks: 09.00 – 12.00 and 13.30 – 17.00 Monday to Friday.

Post Offices: (identified by yellow PTT signs) 08.00 – 20.00 Monday to Saturday, and 09.00 – 19.00 on Sundays.

Museums – 09.00 – 17.00 Tuesday to Sunday.

Chemists (eczane) – 09.00-19.00 Monday to Saturday. A duty chemist is appointed on a rota basis to remain open for 24 hours, details of which are posted in any chemist’s front window.

Shops: in the resorts, and particularly during the summer months, bazaars and many tourist shops open daily from around 09.00 till late in the evening, often till 22.00. More regular type shops may close earlier in the evening, and on Sundays.

Supermarkets: Most supermarkets are open daily, and the larger ones are often open till 22.00 during the summer, a few open 24 hours.

Cafés and restaurants tend to operate open-ended hours and may not close till early in the morning.

Are there insects?
There can be mosquito’s in certain areas so a plug in deterrent is an idea. Ants are frequent in some rural areas.

What is driving like in Turkey?
As in the rest of the Mediterranean, other road users may seem to the UK driver to drive unpredictably. The roads are generally well kept though some coastal or mountain roads can be narrow and winding. You should be aware of the following points:

Traffic drives on the right in Turkey, which means you must give way to the right at junctions and roundabouts (vehicles joining the roundabout have right of way).

A complete Guide to visiting Turkey

The wearing of seat belts is compulsory.

There are strict drink driving laws – the rule is absolutely no alcohol if you intend to drive. Random tests are quite common and police will issue on the spot fines.

If another vehicle flashes it’s lights, this means that it is coming through, not that they are giving way to you.

You should drive defensively at all times, and great care should be taken when driving after dark as you may come across inadequately lit vehicles, slow moving lorries or animals wandering across the road.

With its majestic Himalayan Mountains and fascinating local culture, Nepal is a favorite destination for adventurous travelers. Each year thousands embark upon the experience of a lifetime to spend days or weeks in the breathtakingly beautiful country of Nepal.

Most adventure travelers in Nepal will be treated to magnificent views from high in the mountains. They will wander through pure forests and past clear mountain lakes, rivers and waterfalls. They’ll visit remote Buddhist monasteries and shrines and see tiny mountain villages, full of friendly locals.

Adventure Vacations

Trekking expeditions in Nepal are quite popular. They typically involve a small group of people who have been given a list of equipment, such as hiking boots, to bring with them to Nepal. Once they arrive in the country they set off together to explore. There is usually a trekking staff that comes along on the trip and carries most of the camping equipment and even the travelers’ bags. They set up the camp, cook meals and break camp, leaving the traveler to enjoy the trek without the physical hardship of toting heavy packs.

Treks are available for people with various abilities. While a person should be in good shape for these treks, one does not need to be a tri-athlete to take part. There are more strenuous treks for those in great physical condition, as well as easier treks. Many of the easier treks are appropriate for families and allow children to participate. Some companies rate the treks they offer by level of difficulty, to help travelers judge which trek would be best for them.

While trekking is one of the most popular forms of adventure travel in Nepal, it is by no means the only one. There are many ways to enjoy the great outdoors in beautiful and mysterious Nepal.

- The Himalayas make Nepal a favorite destination for mountain climbers. There are well over 100 peaks open to mountain climbers in Nepal, including the famed Mount Everest.

- The mountains of Nepal also have trails for mountain bikers of varying skills.

- Nepal offers challenging climbing cliffs for avid rock climbers.

- While rafting and kayaking in Nepal, adventurers can float along picturesque mountain rivers enjoying tranquil views, far from the well-traveled paths.

- Finally, adventure travelers in Nepal can choose to experience a jungle safari from a jeep or the back of an elephant. Nepal’s wildlife reserves and conservation areas boast a variety of unique animals, including the Royal Bengal Tiger and the Greater One Horned Rhinoceros.

Thinking about overseas adventure travel? Have you put any thought into the best places to go when it comes to overseas adventure travel? Nepal is one of the most popular places of all, when you visit this magical country you will have the best adventures right there at your doorstep. Only overseas adventure travel in Nepal will give you these kinds of opportunities so if this is not on your list of possible places to visit yet then now is the time to put it on there!

In Nepal your overseas adventure travel is going to be fascinating. You will get to see the Himalayan Mountains and experience all that the rich Nepalese culture has to offer. They are an amazing people who have managed to hang on to their own culture and beliefs longer than most other countries. When overseas adventure travel takes you to Nepal you will have the chance to see all of the fantastic and one of a kind lakes and forests and you can even spend days or weeks camping out in their forests with a specialized guide. And the waterfalls in Nepal are to die for, you will never see anything more gorgeous in your life as their waterfalls! This should be at the top of your overseas adventure travel destination list for sure!

Travel in Nepal

When you get into overseas adventure travel you are going to have to bring your own supplies, at least some of them. For example your hiking boots are a must, as well as special jackets and such. These can literally save your life when you are out there in the wilderness so don’t forget them when you are packing for your overseas adventure travel.

When you get to Nepal you will find that the most popular of all overseas adventure travel there is trekking. Thousands of people come to this fabulous country each year to trek through the mountains and the forests. You will generally go trekking with a group of people, most of them visitors in overseas adventure travel as well. You will all have a trained and specialized guide to take you on your trek and this trek can last from a day to weeks, all depending on the what kind of overseas adventure travel you are interested in.

Adventure Travel in Nepal

Those who run the trekking will usually bring along their own staff, this staff is there to help you with anything that you need and to carry all of the camping gear. They will often even carry your bag for you when you go on this kind of overseas adventure travel. They are simply there to make your trip and trek easier and more fun and relaxing. This overseas adventure travel staff will also be the people who cook for you each day and who set up and break down the camp when called for.

There is no better place to go for your overseas adventure travel than Nepal. It is a friendly and hospitable place where you can get back to nature and enjoy the wonders of the world through overseas adventure travel.

Hotels in Nepal

If you want to Honeymoon in the Maldives, or go diving in the Maldives, then the North Ari Atoll could be the perfect spot for you.. Some of the best Maldives Holiday Packages are to be found here, and some of the best hotels in the Maldives are to be found here. You ought to be able to find a really good Maldives holiday package here if you are prepared to do some research.

The North Ari Atoll is about 45 km west of Male atoll, and it has around 18 inhabited islands, and it was the second area of the Maldives to develop for tourists, and it is now the most developed tourist area in the Maldives.

Hotels in the Maldives

The North Ari Atoll is famed for its diving, and is one of the largest atolls in that the whole Ari Atoll is 80Kms long and 30 Kms wide. It is best reached by seaplane if for no better reason than the views of the islands from the air, but if you can’t stand flying then speedboat is the other real option..

Some of the hotels worth researching for your honeymoon in the Maldives in the North Ari Atoll are as follows.

Bathala Island Resort is a 3 star hotel with 45 rooms, some 34 Kms from the airport, with a sea-plane transfer of 20 minutes.

Dhoni Migili is a 5 star deluxe hotel with only six rooms, and is 63 Kms from the airport. Transfer by speed boat takes 2 hours, by seaplane only 30 minutes.

Ellaidhoo Tourist Resort is a 3 star hotel with 78 rooms, and is situated 42 Kms from the airport. Access by speedboat is 1 hour and thirty minutes, and by sea plane 20 minutes halaveli

Halaveli Holiday Village is a 4 star hotel with 50 rooms, and it is situated 62 Kms from the airport, and sea plane transfer takes 20 minutes

Kuramathi Blue Lagoon is a 4 star hotel with 56 rooms, situated 70 Kms from the airport, and a speedboat transfer takes 90 minutes, and 20 minutes by seaplane.

Honeymoon in Maldives

Kuramathi Cottage & Spa is a 4 star hotel with 81 rooms, situated 70 Kms from the airport, and a speedboat transfer takes 90 minutes, and 20 minutes by seaplane.

Kuramathi Village is a 4 star hotel with 151 rooms, situated 70 Kms from the airport, and a speedboat transfer takes 90 minutes, and 20 minutes by seaplane.

The three Kuramathi Hotels are the only hotels which share an island, as it is more than a kilometre in length.

Nika Island Resort is a 4 star exclusive hotel with 36 rooms, and is 74 Kms from the airport. Transfer by seaplane takes 30 minutes.

Velidhu Island Resort is a 4 star hotel with 100 rooms, and is 100 Kms from the airport. Transfers by speedboat takes 2 hours, and by seaplane 20 minutes.

Veligandu Island Resort is a 4 star hotel with 73 rooms , and is 50 Km from the airport. Transfers by seaplane take around 15 minutes.

W Retreat & Spa – Maldives is a 5 star de luxe hotel, with 78 rooms, and is 72 Km from the airport, and a 25 minute transfer by sea plane.

Honeymoon In The Maldives, On The North Ari Atoll

There’s sure to one of these hotels or islands that are just right for your honeymoon in the Maldives on the North Ari Atoll, where the diving reigns supreme. Some of the best hotels in the Maldives are here, and you ought to be able to put together a perfect Maldives holiday package.

Hotels in Maldives
Hotels in Northern Ari Atoll

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Diana Schmiedt / pixelio.de
Oliver Haja / pixelio.de

In Dubai, the lodging industry is revealing itself as the golden fruit of the country real estate developments and extensive marketing.

Although the number of players entering the market is growing there are still numerous opportunities available for successful entries and thanks to the lodging industry’s recent performance and outlook, financing for service apartments construction or investment is becoming more readily available.

The Serviced Apartments category has been doing consistently well meeting the needs of corporate executives and travelers alike with a good combination of short and medium term rentals.

Dubai Apartments

Speculative hoteliers are taking advantage of the market, pushing rates to new heights and there seem to be no underperforming properties on the Dubai market to a point where it is reasonable to consider converting a residential property into a commercial one.

While pursuing service apartments construction or lease seems like a good investment, there is a fair chance that you would not be the only one to have this idea. While your overview for the project might look good today, given current market conditions, five more similar projects planned for the same market may turn your forecast into an alternative reality.

Remember, existing accommodation providers are likely to put up a battle, including lowering their rates substantially, to keep their clients away from your new property.

In any case the lodging industry will undoubtedly continue to be an exciting market over the next few years, with plenty of opportunities for hotel and hotel apartment investments.

A small size building between 2 to 5 floors or a compound of villas close to the beach could be the right step to begin with and if supported by a solid management and marketing plan, a tiny development could result in a large triumph.

Dubai Holiday Apartments

Remember that not all successful projects have to be gigantic in fact a small property will most likely be perceived by the guests as cozy and private, something rather unique in Dubai in fact a valuable market gap can be identified with regards to small size projects in the 3 or 4 stars category and the potential for successful new entries is tangible.

For those new investors looking into exploring the Serviced Apartments business it is advisable to place a solid emphasis on careful market research and analysis for the property so that strategic plans can be developed tracking both expenditure and results.

These strategies incorporate: Industry networking, Database utilization, Telemarketing, Internet visibility & interaction, Media design & promotions etc

Dubai Beach Hotel Apartments

It is also essential to identify and appoint a management and marketing company for the property which will professionally look after all aspects related to the set up and running of the business from the recruiting and training of the staff to the daily management and marketing requirements in addition to a brand building and awareness program.

A tiny project will not be of any interest for those huge and well established international franchise however it can be very attractive for those management & marketing companies who are looking to enter the Dubai market in gradual steps bringing along their solid overseas experience and business relationships.

Dubai Beach Hotel Apartments

Do you want to relax on white beaches or hike over a glacier. This way you’ll have formulated a certain comfort and ease level with your cruise in progress. Choose from options ranging from three to a 3 week period, removing from many ports down and up the East Coast. Holiday sites also have email newsletters that can be delivered in your inbox with existing low priced last moment cruise deals. Bermuda last minute cruises departure ports include Boston; New York; Cape Liberty in Bayonne, New Jersey; Baltimore, Maryland; or Norfolk, Virginia.

All you should do is have a little time and energy to shop around rent-a-car shops and then try to negotiate about the company to offer very last minute deals. Cruises could be the ultimate way of vacation anywhere throughout the world. Rather than merely a handful of accommodations, now the choice involves deciding between possibly numerous hotels. Look for reviews online to have cruise line using the best services. There are endless opportunities for excursions, including a dogsled ride across a glacier, a wildlife cruise over a catamaran, and a hike through glacial waterfalls and rainforests.

Last Minute Cruises

These come in fact a good solution for very last minute cruise vacationers when itineraries or cabin preferences don’t matter much. Now cruise companies start to expand reducing their margins through providing a good discount cruises to vacationers in return for more people to shell out their holiday on the cruise ships. Finding cheap last minute cruise deals from New York City is absolutely no distinct from finding deals from any other departure port. They’ll design cruise bundles which are inclusive of bonus excursions like scuba, snorkeling and spa treatments. Take an outing that stops in England, Holland and Denmark, or leisurely sail for the Mediterranean, pausing in Barcelona, Spain; Naples, Italy; and Nice, France.

But once you’re ready to rest, you’ll accomplish that in comfort and magnificence. Go ahead and surprise your wife or husband using a last-minute honeymoon cruise. Prices: As low as $59 pp; $97 pp for a verandah suite. Also, you’ll be able to book extra excursions such as snorkeling, riding, offshore fishing, island-hopping plus much more, depending on the destination you choose. See how much additional you’ll ought to pay for service fees, port charges and government taxes.

although beware that choosing your destinations for Europe might be a difficult (albeit fun) task. The Internet is an incredible resource for locating top deals and discounts on last minute cruises. Holland American actually has  a number of long cruises lasting for 2 weeks or maybe more but a lot of their 7-14 day cruises departing San Diego are perfect options for anyone looking for a more exotic vacation. You can get so excited with the last minute deal you got through the Internet and you just rush for the port without considering airfare and other expenses. Use the services of a travel agent for your advantage.

Also, you are able to uncover final-moment offers in the cruise lines on their own and on many about the internet cruise sellers’ websites. You have heard about new year eve cruises, or be also familiar with it. Bargain hunters should also realize that incredible deals aren’t a guarantee. It has own class and style that offers an incredible night with extravagant food, wine, champagne etc. Royal Caribbean does the task so you can relax and luxuriate in your cruise vacation.

Last Minute Caribbean Cruises

By keeping your travel dates options open at either side in the days you want to go, you can get much more savings. As you’ll be able to see, you will find many ways that it is possible to find a cheap last minute cruises. Also, be sure to book all of your respective travel plans; even though you’re cruising, you might have to book an aircraft, train, rental car to obtain you for a port of departure. Running away from your worldly stress in our routine lives is a thing that we can not do permanently. Take good thing about some extra excursions, including cliff diving, lagoon tours, snorkeling, SCUBA diving, wildlife hikes and plenty more including tours of a tequila factory.

Going with a vacation normally involves planning days, weeks, or even months ahead of the actual trip. Find more info about caribbean cruise specials here. You might not exactly get many discounts but the last minute offers these discount cruise packages offer are often unmatched. Once you’ve got those – booking the rest of the amazing European cruise adventure is fairly simple. Below are methods to be sure you stay as part of your budget and save plenty of money the very next time you go with a cruise.

Last Minute Cruises

No appear you budget there is going to be options for you through the New York City port of departure. Often, you will end up surprised at the excellent last-minute deals it is possible to get around the most amazing cruises. You will have ample time within your hands and take pleasure in the trip in your own terms. Surprises are perfect, and also you might just come across something mystical and be totally amazed. They’ll also offer special cruise bundles which include bonus excursions like SCUBA diving, snorkeling, and luxurious spa treatments.

Lodge Safaris in Tanzania – I will try to avoid the travel clichés of ‘unique’, ‘off the beaten track’ and ‘renowned for…’ These tired expressions are used over and over again for almost every destination in Africa! The lodge safari in Tanzania is by far the best way to see this lovely country. Tanzania has so much to offer, including many parks that have few visitors and high concentrations of game animals. Some National Parks boast just one lodge in a million hectares. Your Lodge safari in Tanzania can truly offer a taste of what the early explorers experienced.

When choosing your lodge safari, do so with care. Many visitors want to see the great migration and the Serengeti. Some lodges are in fact hotels and although very nice; they do not contribute to that ‘out of Africa’ experience. What is called for is a camp experience and the private camp is ideal for a special experience. When you look to plan your trip try not to go for the ‘lodge safari’ but the private camp safari. Your choice of lodge or camp is a very important part of the whole safari picture.

Luxury Lodge Safaris Tanzania

These camps are usually made up of a small number of tents. Not the two man tent with no standing room and sleeping on the hard and sometimes damp ground, nor is there the cooking over a stove and eating grass and sand with your tinned food. No, these private camps have tents that have large comfortable beds, a bathroom en suite and some even boast a butler service. The cuisine is of the highest quality and you dine from bone china and drink champagne [or beer] from crystal glasses.

If you want to listen at night to the song of the African bush with the occasional distant [or sometimes close] roar of a lion; if you want to open your tent in a morning to be greeted by Impala and Zebra grazing so close to your tent that you could almost touch them, then choose one of the tented camps. If you want to be in a remote part of the park but close to the animals; if you want to stand in the open plains of the Serengeti and not be joined by a caravan of twenty other safari vehicles, then the private camp is your option above the mere mass-market tourist lodge.

There are several such camps scattered throughout the Serengeti. Your choice of camp will depend on what time of year you visit Tanzania. A good camp is Kusini Camp in the Southern Serengeti. It is small, luxurious, and in the ideal spot from the end of December until March, as the great migration is in this area at this time. However, the rest of the year this camp is a little isolated and animals may be harder to see.

A problem with planning a safari round the migration is that the migration follows the rains and the rains are notoriously unpredictable. Your camp may end up being in the wrong area of the Serengeti. At times of little rain the migration can remain in the Northern Serengeti at a time of year when normally the animals have crossed into Kenya. Many safari expeditions in a season of little rain may find themselves in the wrong country!

Safaris Tanzania

This is a headache for safari operators, as a disappointed client is not good for business. However, this can be solved with a ‘mobile camp’ and this is not only the best option but also by far, the most expensive option.

To get around the high costs of the mobile camp there is a new breed of camp emerging, a semi-permanent camp. This is a tented camp that moves perhaps three or four times per year. It will follow the migration, ensuring that whilst the migration is in the Serengeti, the camp will also be in the mist of the animals. One such camp I have heard good reports about is EMC [Exclusive Mobile Camp – Serengeti]. It is friendly, knowledgeable, embraces fair trade tourism and best of all, the camp is very good value for money. They have a web site and an office in Arusha which will give out details of the migration and the position of their camp. This is great, both for tour operators and for people wanting to plan a safari.

Luxury Lodge Safaris In Tanzania

This is where the internet can help in a positive way, to help you plan a safari that will truly be a holiday of a life time. There is no need to hope your travel agent will do a good job in planning your vacation. Take some of the responsibility your self and plan your safari; check out your destination and accommodation. If your travel agent or tour operator is not cooperative or flexible, ask around and go to someone who is willing to earn their commission.

Hotels in Tanzania
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Joujou  / pixelio.de
Ulla Trampert / pixelio.de

Changuu Private Island Paradise, also known as Prison Island is an exquisite paradise with a private white sandy beach, dense forest, unspoiled placid waters and coral reef. This paradise in eastern Tanzania is also a haven for rare bird species and a unique group of permanent residents since 1919 known as the Aldabra Giant tortoises. This endangered species were a gift from the Seychelles government and have grown from an initial group of 4 to over 100. Some of the tortoises are believed to be over 100 years old.

Changuu Island lies 8 kilometres to the northwest of Stone Town or Zanzibar town and is about 800m by 400m at the broadest part. This Five Star island’ resort in the heart of the Indian Ocean is a quick 20 -30 minutes sail on a traditional dhow (fishing boat) The Island is perimetered with a beautiful coral reef which is like a fantasy to anyone who enjoys snorkelling. The lovely white beach is ideal for sunbathing or whiling the glorious sunset away.

Prison Island

As most pristine places the history of the Changuu Island is fascinating. In the 1860s, the desolate island was given to two Arabs by the Sultan Seyyid Majid. They used it as a detention centre for rebel slaves. In 1893, after Zanzibar became a British Protectorate, General Sir Lloyd William Mathews (who was a First Minister), bought Changuu Island for the Zanzibar Government from its former Arab owners with the objective of building a prison. The island was sold by the Arabs especially because slave trade had been abolished. A prison to serve the stone town was built on the island but it was instead used as a quarantine station for the whole East Africa region. By 1894 construction of the prison was completed and the island became known as Prison Island.

Zanzibar being the most utilised port town at that time, the authorities were concerned about the threat of epidemics brought by passengers and cargo from across the seas and so the island was designated as a quarantine island. Due to the monsoons and seasonal arrival of vessels only between December and March, the island was usually free of quarantined persons. And so during these periods, Changuu was one of the preferred leisure resorts for Zanzibaris and European residents. These visitors used to stay in a bungalow, built in the late 1890s, locally known as European Bungalow. The bungalow has been artfully restored and converted into Mathews Restaurant. Previously the only available fresh water was rain water stored in underground tanks but recently a pipeline from Zanzibar mainland delivers fresh water to the island. The Mathews’ Restaurant (named after Sir General Lloyd Mathews) has capacity for 50 covers and features fine International Cuisine. Its wide terrace overlooks the enticing swimming pool and enjoys a refreshing sea breeze. More so, a dip in a natural lagoon in the western side of the island, where Sea Turtles can often be seen is also available.

Changuu Private Island Paradise

In 1931 a new Quarantine Area with new buildings was erected in the south-west of the island, which gave the Quarantine Station a capacity to accommodate 904 people. After the island lost is role as a Quarantine Station, due to lack of use, the buildings started to ruin. Today, the remains of these semi-collapsed buildings have been adroitly converted into 12 exquisite sea-view rooms with a lovely bar known as the fisherman’s cove. Candlelight dinners in the square facing the restored ruins are one of the most romantic experiences in Changuu Private Island Paradise and the sight of graceful dhows fishing at night provokes ones imagination back to the ancient days when the dhows were the cornerstone of Zanzibar and indeed the Indian Ocean.

The Prison Ruins have been restored to their original fashion and have been adapted to new uses. The Prison Fort is currently the main cultural area of the island. Leisure facilities in the Prison Fort include an exclusive boutique, a library, a Restaurant and a bar. In its north-west side, Changuu Private Island Paradise also has 15 fashionable deluxe rooms spaced along the sea-line and roofed with traditional makuti intended to ensure a cool atmosphere day and night. Ensuite bathrooms are provided with a huge bath-tub and shower. The private outdoor verandas face out to the sea, maximizing the views and sounds of the Ocean. The island is a superb scenario for any photographer or for anyone willing just to relax and enjoy the peacefulness that this beautiful island has to offer. For some sweat generating activity there is a floodlight tennis court in the bush in case the self walking safari that covers the island in 15minutes is too light an activity.

The Charm Of Changuu – Prison Island

Changuu Private Island Paradise pleasantly merges the display and restoration of the history of the islet with its adaptation to modern necessities and facilities. Many would not mind being imprisoned in the luxuries of modern day Changuu-prison island.

Image source:
Maria Sauer / pixelio.de
Dieter Schütz / pixelio.de

Revealing Uncomplicated Secrets Of cruises for less Cruising and travelling on a tight budget would greatly be determined by the travelers choices of itineraries and planning. In fact, today, the cruises that are available are designed just for you among others like you. If you can, find ports that don’t have a lots of traffic to search sales because they typically offer better deals only for leaving using their port. Nonetheless, most of independent tour goers rarely experience issues and typically their wallets enjoy the savings. Other lines such as Celebrity Cruises, Holland America, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises simply have seasonal cruises during certain months with the year.

I speak on cruiselines, and I’ve been around the Royal Caribbean, Costa and Carnival cruiselines lately. What do you do if you’re cruising along so you already possess a sunburn or perhaps you hit rainy weather. Finding the top activities off the ship while keeping your budget in mind can be quite a tricky thing to accomplish. In the past few years, the grocery bill each day, per student, has ranged from $2 or $3 in the low end to $6 or more at the high end. Avoid setting proper effort into traveling to one specific location, as the transportation on the departure port could be too expensive.

Cruises for Less

To pick the right cruise, you have to know whatever you want, after which use this short list to help you choose which trip is right for you personally. Nevertheless, one from the components that will lower the rush and excitement with the trip would be the cost. The best deals sell out quickly, so don’t will lose out on yours. If able, travel inside a group and lower your expenses by sharing a room. Air is pumped into lead masks that bring guests to the ocean floor, permitting them to interact with marine life.

s cruises offer an incredible mix of relaxation and excitement, and give package deals designed to adjust to into any budget. Try a deluxe manicure, a luxurious facial or perhaps a relaxing massage. You are capable of doing this tour at you leisure throughout the day. Try your best to remember the fastest and safest route from your stateroom cabin to the designated lifeboat area. Typically the cheapest deals on shore excursions will likely be found after you arrive in port at your scheduled stop but they might be booked if you wait that long.

Shore excursions and island visits are among the many highlights in all routes just like the Northern, Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean Routes. We recommend becoming a member of alerts to new articles on this and other cruise related topics. This time, 96 passengers and six crew members fell ill for the bug which then causes gastroenteritis. Now, in order to complete making one’s cruise budget, a cruise passenger can also add the expenses mentioned previously and be prepared to spend simply a bit more. In addition to saving money, low season cruises often mean smaller crowds, which can make for a more relaxed vacation.

Cruises for Less