AIR TRAVELING

by: Morgan Hamilton

Low APR credit cards are much more prevalent than in years past. Competition is stiff and credit card financial institutions offer many nice perks, rewards, points, low annual percentage rates (APR) and other inducements. They want to capture new customers who've never had a credit card but also those who already have a credit card and might like to save money by transferring that card's balance on to their new low APR credit cards.

Of course, there is nothing lower in an APR than zero - and those exist too, although sometimes for a limited time period. It may be that the lowest, or even the zero percentage APR is for an introductory period, after which the rate is higher. The permanent APR is what you want to watch out for, of course. Although if you're not opposed to doing a lot of switching, you can always purchase a low APR credit card, or zero percentage APR credit card, transfer the balance from your current high APR credit card, and then, once the introductory time period has expired and the APR is about to go up on your newest credit card, transfer the balance yet again to a brand new low APR credit card.

Let's look at a few of the low APR credit cards out there, so you know what kinds of options are typically available to you.

Citibank, for example, offers low APR credit cards that give you five percent cash back on any purchase you making at grocery stores and gas stations with your low APR credit card, and one percent back for any purchase elsewhere. The APR on transfers is zero for the first year. If your transfer transaction is at least $1500 you will earn $5 cash back with the low APR credit card. There is no annual fee and the APR after the first year is 12.24 percent.

Discover has a platinum clear card whose low APR is continual. The first year the APR is zero, but after the first year it's still a very competitive 9.99 percent. And there is no annual fee. With these low APR credit cards you earn a five percent cash back bonus on purchases made from hardware and home improvement retailers, restaurants, book vendors, and gas stations. If the retailer doesn't qualify you for the five percent discount you will always get one percent back no matter what you buy and from where with this low APR credit card.

Chase Bank offers low APR credit cards as well. Its zero percent APR is good for six months, after which you will pay 10.49 percent. These low APR credit cards have no annual fee, and offer rewards at the rate of one point for every dollar spent with your Chase card. You can get free airline flights and hotel rooms, as well as cruises and auto rentals. This card also provides $500,000 worth of travel insurance for worldwide vacationing. You can also take advantage of a fifteen percent discount off a Hertz car rental with these low APR credit cards.

by: Tom


Have you been looking for the best sourced opinion relating to investment.
When you're after superior information on investment, you will find it hard separating quality information from amateurish investment suggestions and directions so it is wise to recognize how to qualify the information you are given.

Buy Stocks for Just $4
No account or investment minimums, no inactivity fee.



Here's a few tips that we believe you should think of using when you're searching for information regarding investment. Bear in mind the advice we offer is only pertinent to web based information about investment. Unfortunately we are unable to provide any direction or assistance when you are also conducting research offline.

Trade Currency Rates Commission Free
RefcoFX provides currency trading online. Instant execution and 200:1 leverage are just two of the benefits of investing in the forex market. Try a free demo today!



A great tip to pursue when you're presented with information and suggestions on a investment article is to verify the ownership of the website. Doing this could reveal the owners investment authorizations The easiest way to reveal who owns the investment web site is to find the sites 'about' page.

All reliable sites providing content on investment, will nearly always have an 'about' or 'contact' page which will provide you with the owner's details. The info should make known a number of key indications about the owner's necessary expertise. You can then decide for yourself about the webmaster's training and understanding, to give recommendations about investment.

by: Jay Moncliff

Access to foreign exchange (forex), the most extensive market on the planet, is generally through an intermediary known as a forex broker. Similar to a stock broker, these agents can also provide advice on forex trading strategies. This advice to clients often extends to technical analysis and research approaches designed to improve client forex trading performance.

Financial institutions are generally the most influential in the forex market through high-volume, large-value forex currency transactions. Historically, banks enjoyed monopolistic access to the forex markets, but through the Internet, any forex speculator can also enjoy 24 hour access to the market via a forex broker.

Secure web connections today allow many forex traders to work from home, where ready access to news and other technical advice informs decisions on what forex positions to take. Similar moves are being made by stock brokers, who are also moving out of banks and other traditional institutions.

Your needs in the market will influence your choice of forex broker. Online forex brokerage firms, known as houses, provide those new to the forex market with detailed research, advice and simulators to learn how to use their forex trading tools. The experienced online forex trader is catered to by other broking houses, with in-depth advice, but less focus on forex trading instruction based on the assumption that you are familiar with the forex market. To make an informed choice, it is advisable to trial several differing online forex broking houses and their trading tools to find the best fit for your needs.

by: Kerri Salls

Surveys are interesting. I took note of this one done recently by American Express because it backed up some data I learned at the (National Association of Female Executives) NAFE National Conference in May. According to the survey, 40% of the smallest business owners - those with less than $200,000 in annual revenues - are planning no vacation whatsoever this summer. But even business owners with higher revenues aren't doing much better - only 75% of them expect to get away from the business this summer.

As we were told at the NAFE Conference, even those business owners who do get away from the office, won't truly get away. Rather, one in three will link their vacation time to a business trip and 50% will still check in with the office at least once a day.

Why can't business owners let go? What are the concerns that keep them tied to the business? According to the survey:

* An important client or customer will not receive appropriate service
* The business will miss out on a new opportunity
* There is no other competent person to leave in charge
* The individuals left in charge will make the wrong decisions
* An operational or equipment breakdown will occur without anyone to solve the problem

Such concerns are not surprising. It is hard for a business owner to take any type of vacation worry-free. But with planning, preparation and good leadership you can boost the enjoyment level of your time off to come back refreshed and ready to tackle new challenges and opportunities. Here are 8 steps to prevent vacation angst.

1. Make a plan - To avoid surprises, create a list of scenarios on your current projects and brief your staff on the possibilities and your major concerns about each client. Assign specific staff to each client/account so there is someone that clients can speak to who understands their concerns when you aren't there.

2. Brief your key clients or customers - Offer them advance notice of any extended absence you are planning. There's no reason to keep your vacation schedule a secret. Introduce them to your deputy and convey your confidence in their ability to handle any issues that may arise. If appropriate, consider letting them know how to reach you should a true emergency arise - not that one will because of all your pre-planning.

3. Leadership is being a delegator not a dictator - If you never delegate important tasks to others, you can't expect them to be ready to fill your shoes when you want to take time off. To create a saner situation and build confidence that good things will happen when you aren't there, learn to delegate responsibilities - divvy up those pieces that must still happen in your absence and postpone those that can wait for your return.

4. Strategically schedule your vacation time - Most businesses have a slow season or times of the year when the pace is slower, or at least a bit less crazy. Plan your vacations to coincide with those lulls.

5. Mini-Vacations - If you just can't let go of the business for a whole week or two, or you can't bear to be too far away from the office, try taking a few days out of town, or extend a weekend somewhere else. Even a brief escape from routine with a change of scenery can do wonders for your perspective and re-energize you.

6. Disconnect entirely - When you do take a vacation: turn off your cell phone, don't bring the laptop, don't check your email, don't bring work with you and avoid the temptation to call or visit the office to "check up" on what's happening. If there's an emergency they can't handle, they will find you.

7. Take time off to sharpen skills - If you just can't justify taking time off to kick back and relax, then take time off to learn something new - business or personal. Taking continuing education courses at a local college or business school is a low-cost and effective way to break from your office routine, be with new people and try new things. Some programs are 3-5 days off-site if that fits your schedule better.

8. Keep your priorities straight - When you go through the exercise of listing the things you really care about, is your business really #1, 2, and 3? Outside of work, your priorities might be connecting with family and friends, spending time with kids, cultivating personal interests, staying healthy or pursuing an avocation. To regain balance in your life, you need to keep work, family and personal time in perspective. Those other priorities help you find more enjoyment in your time away from the business.

Let me know if these tips help you take a well-deserved vacation (or two) this summer.

by: Kriss Hammond



The Top 100 Travel Products That You Can’t Live Without

Read Jetsetters Magazine at www.jetsettersmagazine.com

To read this entire feature FREE with photos cut and paste this link:
http://www.jetsettersmagazine.com/archive/jetezine/gear/top100/travel/travel.html

ConairPro Plug Adapters & Voltage Converter Kit

Perfect for the world traveler! The kit includes 4 different plug adapters used for most foreign wall outlet and voltage converter which converts 220/240V to 110/120V. Works with European and Asian electrical outlets.

The Jet Lag Bag Anti-Stress Travel Pack: K

For the inveterate globe-trotter or armchair adventurer - the Jet Lag Bag is an exquisite selection of our most popular Anti-Stress accoutrements packed in a cute, compact and eminently convenient travel pack. Whether on land, sea, sky or just in the clouds, create your own peaceful, pretty-scented ambience with a few spritzes of the Anti-Stress Pillow Mist. Soothe away the eye-baggage that forms during long, sleepless flights with the chillable/heatable Anti-Stress Peace Mask. And remain master of your own mood with the lavender, chamomile and citrus scents of the Anti-Stress Massage Soap and Anti-Stress Massage Lotion. Mind and body will hardly lag behind. An ideal bon voyage gift and auspicious starter kit for those who have yet to try our rave-worthy Anti-Stress Collection.

Badger Sleep Balm

It can sometimes be hard to fall asleep at night when we travel. That's why we carry a tin of Badger Sleep Balm on every trip. It contains a relaxing blend of balsam fir extracts with essential oils of bergamot, ginger, rosemary and lavender, as well as organic extra-virgin olive oil. Just rub a little onto your temples, chin or pulse points and its gentle fragrance will help you slip off to dreamland. It really works! 2 oz. tin. Made in the USA.

Plane Quiet Active Noise Reduction Headset

The revolutionary Plane Quiet Active Noise Reduction Headset eliminates up to 15 decibels across the sound spectrum, so you can relax and enjoy your favourite movie, music or pristine silence on your next flight -- or anytime you need to block out unpleasant noise! Foldable design. Comes with leatherette pouch and one AAA battery. Dual plug adapter. 1.6m cord.

Natural Linen Shades™ w/ Earplugs

Washable,100% light blocking blackout cloth creates complete darkness,Super soft padding cradles your eyes without pressure,Velcro straps secure shades easily and comfortably,Super-soft padding makes these a shade above other sleep masks,Bucky Shades™ cushion your eyes in complete darkness, stimulating your body s own natural melatonin production. This hormone called the all natural nightcap is the body's sleep/wake regulator and plays a part in protecting cells, strengthening the immune system, anti-aging, and alleviating depression. Bucky Shadesä won t leave you with the hangover effect you may experience with sleeping pills. Wake up refreshed, re-energized, and ready to enjoy work or play,Earplugs (included) store in handy pocket

by: Jean Sutherland


Travel Asia: Festivities and Fun

Are you planning to travel to Asia within the next year, and are looking for some fun festivities to attend? Well, look no further – we’ve researched some of the more incredible Asian festivals for you to check out during your travels.

Travel Asia: Pulilan Carabao Festival

You’ll probably never see a water buffalo adorned quite like this! If you travel to Pulilan in the second week of May, you’ll witness the homage to the patron saint of farmers, San Isidro Labrador. Families take their prized water buffalos, scrape away the dirt, shave them, anoint them in oils, and then parade them around the city square dressed as kings. The priests of the Asian city then kneel and ask the buffalos to bless them, promising health and good wishes for the upcoming year to all, including visiting travelers.

Travel Asia: Parade of the God of Medicine

On the 15th day of the third lunar month, the city of Taiwan is taken over by this world-renowned Asian festivity – a must for travelers in the area because of its spectacular parade. At the nucleus of the 160 temple celebration are Pao Sheng in Taipei and the Temple of Ching Tzu in Hseuhchia. Spearheaded by a group called the Centipedes, worshippers attending the city-wide parade throw themselves on the ground to be stepped upon, as a symbolic exorcising of their demons.

Travel Asia: Yasothon Rocket Festival

In the middle of May, things get very noisy for Asian travelers to the Phaya Thaen Park in Thailand. Historically, the festival started as an offering to the gods of the sky, exploding beautiful rockets to encourage rainfall for rice crop growth. Nowadays, event has become something more of a sport, with competitions to see whose rocket can fly the farthest, and whose explodes the most.

Travel Asia: Asakusa Samba

Toyko’s version of the Rio Carnaval happens every August, in the Asakusa district. Travelers to Asia and natives alike are amazed by the colorful sequined costumes and feathers of the dancing Samba girls, along with their full bands marching down the street alongside them.

Travel Asia: The Festival of the Hungry Ghosts

Hong Kong hosts this unusual yearly event, held on the 14th day of the seventh moon (sometime in August, during a full moon). Legend says that the gates of Hades were opened on this day, and the dead who cannot rest were left to run the streets mischievously. The Yue Lan Festival, as it is known in Chinese, has natives of the city putting up odd paper monuments all over the streets, which are then ceremoniously burned on the last day.

Travel Asia: The Monkey God Festival

The Monkey God first appeared in Chinese literature during the Ming Dynasty in the book, “Pilgrims to the West”. Since then, this deity has been celebrated during the month of September at Kowloon’s Sau Mau Ping Temple, by recreating a bizarre attempted execution by other the other gods – which includes such things as a ladder of knives, and charcoal set on fire. Travelers to this strange Asian celebration need not be concerned, though – the Monkey God lived, and so do the participants in this celebration.

by: Paris Permenter & John Bigley

A new year always means a chance for a new start. You and yours can begin this new year by making some travel resolutions together, regardless of your time and budget restraints. Put aside those old travel habits and make some new ones! Let this be the year that your travel plans focus on fun, fantasy, and festivities!

(1) We're going to plan a real vacation. No, it doesn't have to be an around the world cruise or first class getaway (but if you can afford it, what are you waiting for?) It does have to be an honest-to-goodness vacation, though. No cell phones, no laptops. Mark the dates on the calendar and keep it just like you'd keep any business appointment. The business of romantic travel, though, is a fun one and an activity that the two of you can plan for months.

(2) We're going to involve each other in the trip planning. All too often, one partner gets the job for planning a trip...and that task quickly becomes a bore. Plan your trips together! Anticipation is half the fun. Visit a travel agent. Collect brochures. Buy a guidebook. Rent a video about your destination. Search the internet for information.

(3) We're going to do something we've never done. Here you can be as mild -- or as wild -- as you dare. Go whitewater rafting. Rent a houseboat. Take a hot air balloon ride. Spend the night in a local bed and breakfast. Learn to scuba dive. Dance the whole night away under the stars. The choice is yours.

(4) We're going to take one mini-vacation every month. Whether it's for the night or just for the night out, plan one tiny slice of a vacation every single month. The only rule: you must pretend you're on vacation. Book a night at a local bed and breakfast. Call your local hotel and find out their non-peak nights (in business-oriented cities, it's usually Friday and Saturday) then plan a short romantic getaway.

(5) We're going to go to at least one festival. Special events take place at just about every community around the world. Whatever your interests -- from square dancing to sandcastle building -- you'll find a festival celebrating with a day or two of fun and food. If you don't have the time or budget to go far, contact area chamber of commerce or tourism offices within a day's drive of your home for their calendar of events. If you can, extend your trip into a long weekend. If you've got the time and resources, check out some of the major fun festivals: Carnival, Mardi Gras, Rio's Carnivale. Don't forget your costume!

Husband and wife team Paris Permenter and John Bigley edit the award-winning airtravling.blogspot.com (www.airtravling.blogspot.com), a romantic travel magazine and resource featuring honeymoons, destination weddings, and romantic getaways worldwide.

by: Holly Bentz


How-to Pack and Travel Lite

In this day and age of traveling cephalalgia, there are a few packing tactics to employ. To cut out an extra thirty to forty minutes at the arriving airport, start with packing small luggage. Since carry-ons can not exceed a linear dimension of 45 inches, you can escape the fiasco of the baggage terminal by simply packing and traveling light. To learn how to pack all your needs into one suitcase, read more.

Use the following pithy packing tips to make your travel light:

Make a list. Compose a pack list. Be sure to coordinate shirts and blouses with bottoms. To maximize your traveling wardrobe fashion savoir faire, stick with solids and versatile basics. Rule-out any clothes that do not match other items.

Roll ‘em up please. The best way to fit all your clothes is by rolling pants and shirts. First fold each item in half. Then simply roll. To try to maintain any creases, start on the bulkiest end of the article of clothing.

Gear up. How to make an awe-inspiring impression out of a basic or mundane outfit? For the most glam appeal, accessorize with a vibrant tie (for him) or a florid scarf (for her). Multihued accessories can liven up just about any attire.

Minimize bulk. After you check for space, edit outfits – ruthlessly. Try to pack microfibers with wrinkle and stain free comfort. With most of your attire, stay in the same color scheme – in case you have to layer up for warmth.

Employ shoe smarts. For men, any leather rubber-soled shoes can make the day and night transition, easy. For woman, a pair of flip-flops, strappy sandals and comfy wedges can serve all casual – chic dressing needs.

Put under garments on the top. To reduce the embarrassment of under garments becoming the side show attraction of the open luggage scan, place all panties in a plastic bag free of any clippers, lighters or other questionable paraphernalia. For expedient security review, place the transparent bag on top of your other items so security can access the bag without ruining your efficient packing method.

Lose Extra Baggage. Leave the heavy travel guide at home. Duplicate important resources to keep your luggage free of extra pounds. Since most hotels and resorts provide irons and blow-dryers --leave yours at home for light travel.

Leave restricted items at home. If you want to make it through security extra fast, avoid any firearms, weapons, box-cutters, scissors, razors, lighters and any other item that may be used in a terrorist situation.

by: Mike Yeager

Air Travel and vacations, to get on a plane and go somewhere, can be one of life's most rewarding experiences. It's so exciting to contemplate an exotic or relaxing destination, for no other reason than to just get away. Half the fun of air travel and vacations, or any trip for that matter, is the anticipation of waiting for the day of departure to arrive.

You know how it is; you're busy with your work and career, deadlines, meetings etc. One afternoon you look over at the calendar and realize that in only 6 weeks, a mere 42 days, you'll be taking off for 10 days of fun, sun and excitement. You get a good, warm feeling knowing that your air travel vacation is just around the corner. Sometimes just knowing that your going on a vacation is all it takes to brighten your day.

Find the best air travel deals on the internet for your next vacation.

Because of the power of the internet, it is now possible to find wonderful air travel bargains and vacations right from your own home. It doesn't matter if you're looking for cruises, cheap airline tickets or Las Vegas vacations, you'll find them all on the internet. http://www.airtravling.blogspot.com

by: Ryan Fyfe


I’m making an assumption that at want point in your life you’ve been a tourist. You’ve carried a map, a camera, maybe even had a tour guide. You’ve traveled to different destinations, relaxed on remote beaches, climbed stairs in buildings you see on television. You’ve done all of these things but some how when you get arrive home, all your left with is a short memory, and a few photographs.

Vacations are nice every once in a while, but it doesn’t make sense to me why we will travel thousands of miles to sit in hotel rooms and watch movies, or lie on a pool deck and catch some rays. These are all things that we can do where we are from, I want you to think about being a traveler not a tourist. You want to soak in as much of the new country and culture that you can rather than bring as much of your culture to them. It’s really quite simple. In one step you need to forget about your way of live, and adopt theirs.

It’s simple things like the mindset that we have when we go abroad, and what we bring. Don’t bring all of the things that we depend on in America. Bring what it is that you are going to need to survive and stay healthy during your visit. The more comforts you have, the more you will depend on them, and the less you will step out to become the traveler you ought to be!

Put yourself out there. Locals are always interested to interact with foreigners, and it’s best to take advantage of this. Meet people that you can share life with while you are in their country. Immerse into their culture and be open to new idea’s. A lot of times we are closed to new idea’s and we miss out on opportunities for better things to come along. Be open, willing and accepting.

If you want to be changed, and to experience you need to leave the tourist at home. Bring out the inner traveler in you and see the world in the way that it was meant to be seen.

by: Steve Gillman

International adventure travel: Safaris, balloon tours, swimming with dolphins, bicycling down volcanos, trekking in the Himalayas, Walmart on Christmas Eve - the list is almost endless. This will not be a comprehensive listing of all the adventure opportunities out there. Instead, here is just enough to whet your appetite.

My Own International Adventure Travel

Long before hitchhiking across the country at sixteen-years-old, I had a taste for adventure. At fourteen, a friend and I bicycled 300 miles in a few days during one summer. At seventeen, I went international with my adventuring, hitchhiking from Michigan to half-way across Mexico. Over forty now, I no longer put out my thumb - not very often, anyhow - but I still love to travel.

More recently, my international adventure travel took me to Ecuador. While there I climbed to the furthest point from the center of the Earth. Everest is highest above sea level, but due to the Earth's bulge at the equator, the peak of Mount Chimborazo, at 20,600 feet, is farther from from the center of our planet. The top is all snow, ice, and glaciers.

My guide didn't speak English, and thought I was a mountaineer. I had once used an ice axe and crampons to go forty feet up a sledding hill, in Michigan. The rest of the story is on the website, but you can get information and a guide by talking to almost any hotel manager in Riobamba, Ecuador.

Go On A Jungle Book Safari

In southern Nepal, In the Royal Chitwan National Park, you can see tigers, leopards, rhinos, and sloth-bears. And where better to see them from than the back of a large elephant? The tours are lead by naturalists and park rangers. Stay in the comfortable Safari Lodge and take daily tours into the jungle.

Take A Mongolian Horseback Trek

Travel with one of the great nomadic and horse-based cultures of the world. The trips take you beyond tourist routes, and you can customize your trek to fit your schedule and budget. These tours are run from an office in Mongolia, and they provides experienced guides that are multi-lingual.

Go Rock Climbing In Rio

Want an outdoor adventure and city nightlife? Try a rock climbing tour in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. You'll find routes for all skill levels in the Sugar Loaf, Urca, Corcovado and Pedra da Gavea mountains. Tours include bilingual instructors, equipment rentals, and transportation, and start at under $100 per person.

Swim With Dolphins In The Croatian Sea

Escape from the cold this winter, to the Cres-Lošinj group of islands, which is known for it's mild climate. Mali Lošinj on the island of Lošinj is known for its health resort, but recently, the area is becoming famous for the bottle-nosed dolphins that have made their homes in the clear and clean waters of the Cres-Lošinj group of islands. Mingle with them by boat or in your swimsuit.

Climb Mount Kinabalu

Mt. Kinabalu (4101m) is the king of the Borneo sub-continent. It rises 3000 feet higher than other mountains in the area; far above the jungle. It attracts international climbers of all skill levels, who scramble, climb and trek in its unique jungle-alpine enviroment. Kinabalu is in a world heritage site that boasts a wide variety of plants and animals. Experienced guides will take you trekking, or take you to the top.

by: Liana Metal


FOUR WAYS TO FREE/LOW COST TRAVEL AROUND GREECE...AND NOT ONLY!

By Liana Metal

1.Free lodging!

Find a pen friend. Maybe you haven’t thought of this. It’s the best solution to your budget problems, but you can’t have it overnight! Greek people are hospitable and so are other countries’ people if you become friends with. It’s the simplest thing to do if you like writing letters or just exchanging cards and souvenirs. I’ve done it and a lot of other people have, why not you? Your friend will probably be happy to put you up for a couple of nights and show you around as well. The other alternative is to exchange your house/flat with somebody else’s abroad. There is a site online that will help you find a place . Try www.welcometraveller.org , they advertise ‘exchange homes free of charge’. Try also www.bigworld.com for offers and discounts.

2.Low cost travel

Stay at campsites. The cheapest alternative to free lodging, at least in Greece. You save money and have fun . Find a campsite at
www.greecetravel.com/campsites

3.Invest on a bike.

If you like cycling, then you can do it. In Greece you can cycle to most places and see areas that are worth visiting. You can easily rent a bike , and if you are in Corfu you can try
www.mountainbikecorfu.com

4.Rent a room in a village or at the port

There are families who rent rooms in their own house ; cheaper than hotel rooms but you have to follow the rules. Where can you find them?
Watch the port area if you come by ship. There are people who approach you and tell you about their own rooms around the area, at low prices. Sometimes you can even bargain to get a better price.

Well, if all these don’t suit you and you may own a caravan , you don’t have to worry about lodgings. You can stay at campsites at low cost, at the side of the road or even in a field for free. You can also hire a caravan and share the expenses, if you travel with friends.

Don’t know where to find one? In Greece you can try

www.greecetravel.com/carrentals

Greece is ideal for traveling at low cost. But you must be inventive and explore all the sources available. Visit www.google.gr
This is a search engine that will help you find all the info you want. Just type the word Greece and click on Search.

GOOD LUCK!

by: Glynnis Farrow

Schedule Europe Trip for Best Seasons, Values

A journey to Europe is the holiday of a lifetime. Limitless sites and attractions are waiting throughout the continent. The prices and the weather are the major elements in deciding the prime travel periods.

A good compromise is to choose the period before and after the busy summer season, because the weather is mostly good and prices are lower. Southern Europe also offers a nice experience in the winter, with reasonably mild weather.

If nice weather is important to you, the winter is one of the worst times to see northern Europe. Gray, wet and cold weather is common December through February. And daylight is in short supply, so evenings will be spent primarily indoors.

However, winter travel offers the best prices. Italy or Greece would be good choices if you are limited to a winter vacation.

There are some other benefits to winter travel. Winter festivals and New Year's are exciting times in Europe. Cities such as Paris are beautiful when decorated for the Christmas holidays. New Year's eve in Paris is exciting, with parties, festivals and night life. Several other countries have holiday events and festivals as well.

The biggest benefit of winter travel is that you will see fewer other tourists. Your experience will be more authentic, seeing European life without the crush of people.

Early spring finds most of Europe still chilly and wet, especially in the north, so streets are uncrowded. Though not great for swimming, the weather is fine for outdoor tours and sightseeing. Budget-minded travelers will like the cheaper prices for airfare and hotels.

May and June are among the best months to visit most European countries. The weather is warm on most of the continent and it's still uncrowded. There are a variety of festivals and cultural events throughout Europe in May and June. Because the tourist season hasn't started into full swing yet, you can get good deals on accommodations and plane fare. An added benefit is few lines at most tourist attractions and plenty of room on tours and in restaurants.

Once schools let out, Europe quickly becomes crowded. The summer months are very busy and hotels get booked quickly. Because of the demand, everything is more expensive in the summer. Tourist destinations are very crowded and you will wait in lines at many attractions.

Northern Europe, with its good weather and smaller crowds, would be a good option for summer travel. Whatever season you choose, there are more than enough attractions to provide a great European holiday.

by: Bill Johnston


When you are planning a vacation, what do you imagine? Vacations are various things to various individuals. Some like to shop around the town while quite a few others would like to pass the whole trip chilling at the hotel pool. If you are like me, you prefer some of each. On the one hand, because I have found myself someplace unusual to me, I stretch out and travel to some local attractions. On the other hand, if I spend all of my time sprinting from this monument to that amusement park, when I make it home I will have to have a second vacation to heal. No matter what your ideal vacation looks like, this article will help you move in the right direction when planning your trip to Asia.

The first thing which you should do is resolve as much up front as you can. That means stuff like interchanging currency when necessary, memorizing maps of the vicinity, renting a means of transportation (did someone say Harley?), reserving a flight, and finding a hotel that meets your needs. Fortunately, all of these undertakings have become more convenient and cheaper through the internet, so before contacting a travel agent, you might save some cash by examining deals on the internet.

When it comes to getting a hotel, remember to look around cautiously. Some items to consider might be how it ranks; is it a 2 star hotel or a 4 star one? Is it conveniently located? If you are traveling to Disneyland but the hotel you reserved is in San Diego, you will waste a substantial amount of your journey driving. How long are you planning on being at the hotel, and if you are going to be there, what sorts of comforts do they furnish? I'll never forget the time I went out on vacation to relax by the hotel pool, only to discover that the property I was at didn't have one. I am sure that I must have appeared odd walking around the hotel with my inflatable ducky around my waist and no pool to be found.

The next item to consider is what to pack. The general rule-of-thumb is not to go overboard. Keep it simple, traveler. Begin by familiarizing yourself with the average temperature so that you know what your system should pack, but avoid over-packing. Remember, if you forget something, odds are that you can purchase a replacement. I suggest packing older clothing which can be discarded along the way. Depending on where you are, you may discover charities that would be happy to take clothing off of your hands. Besides, this can make additional room for treasures.


When it comes to entertainment, avoid getting too out-of-control. For instance, don’t pack more than one book. If you are able to read an entire book, give that one away and go buy another one. It’s time to get out and go to the store anyway, you bookworm. Instead, bring something to take notes with and write your own book. This does not necessarily mean the company laptop. Do not use this rule as an excuse to bring your work with you. If at all possible, leave every thought of work behind when you travel. Though it might seem awkward at first, pencil and paper work fine for taking notes.

Two significant items to consider packing are Pepto-Bismol, in case something does not agree with you, and hand sanitizer; the kind that doesn’t require water. Remember this, no matter what situation you find yourself of, don't let the sanitizer replace taking a shower.

When you are going to Asia, you and your family should carry lots of what you need for picture taking. If you are old-school and still use 35mm film, consider converting to a digital camera. With a digital camera, I can see what I am taking as I go along. The only things I need are batteries and memory space. Now that you can get a wonderful digital camera for under $200, the excuses you have are dwindling. Most tourist destinations have places that will transfer your photos from your memory card to a CD, allowing for you to take even more pictures to torture family and friends with when you come home.

I cannot stress enough the value in keeping things elementary. Prepare yourself wisely by taking care of all the details you can ahead of time. When planning to travel, remember, the internet is your friend. Pack, plan, and keep entertainment basic to help make sure that your vacation to Asia is a relaxing and memorable one. I hope that these words of advice will become good to you as you prepare to start on your vacation.

Louis Peters is a freelance writer and experienced tour guide. For aid with your next hotel trip, Louis recommends is: http//www.airtravling.blogspot.com

by: Bill Johnston


When you are planning a vacation, what do you imagine? Vacations are various things to various individuals. Some like to shop around the town while quite a few others would like to pass the whole trip chilling at the hotel pool. If you are like me, you prefer some of each. On the one hand, because I have found myself someplace unusual to me, I stretch out and travel to some local attractions. On the other hand, if I spend all of my time sprinting from this monument to that amusement park, when I make it home I will have to have a second vacation to heal. No matter what your ideal vacation looks like, this article will help you move in the right direction when planning your trip to Asia.

The first thing which you should do is resolve as much up front as you can. That means stuff like interchanging currency when necessary, memorizing maps of the vicinity, renting a means of transportation (did someone say Harley?), reserving a flight, and finding a hotel that meets your needs. Fortunately, all of these undertakings have become more convenient and cheaper through the internet, so before contacting a travel agent, you might save some cash by examining deals on the internet.

When it comes to getting a hotel, remember to look around cautiously. Some items to consider might be how it ranks; is it a 2 star hotel or a 4 star one? Is it conveniently located? If you are traveling to Disneyland but the hotel you reserved is in San Diego, you will waste a substantial amount of your journey driving. How long are you planning on being at the hotel, and if you are going to be there, what sorts of comforts do they furnish? I'll never forget the time I went out on vacation to relax by the hotel pool, only to discover that the property I was at didn't have one. I am sure that I must have appeared odd walking around the hotel with my inflatable ducky around my waist and no pool to be found.

The next item to consider is what to pack. The general rule-of-thumb is not to go overboard. Keep it simple, traveler. Begin by familiarizing yourself with the average temperature so that you know what your system should pack, but avoid over-packing. Remember, if you forget something, odds are that you can purchase a replacement. I suggest packing older clothing which can be discarded along the way. Depending on where you are, you may discover charities that would be happy to take clothing off of your hands. Besides, this can make additional room for treasures.


When it comes to entertainment, avoid getting too out-of-control. For instance, don’t pack more than one book. If you are able to read an entire book, give that one away and go buy another one. It’s time to get out and go to the store anyway, you bookworm. Instead, bring something to take notes with and write your own book. This does not necessarily mean the company laptop. Do not use this rule as an excuse to bring your work with you. If at all possible, leave every thought of work behind when you travel. Though it might seem awkward at first, pencil and paper work fine for taking notes.

Two significant items to consider packing are Pepto-Bismol, in case something does not agree with you, and hand sanitizer; the kind that doesn’t require water. Remember this, no matter what situation you find yourself of, don't let the sanitizer replace taking a shower.

When you are going to Asia, you and your family should carry lots of what you need for picture taking. If you are old-school and still use 35mm film, consider converting to a digital camera. With a digital camera, I can see what I am taking as I go along. The only things I need are batteries and memory space. Now that you can get a wonderful digital camera for under $200, the excuses you have are dwindling. Most tourist destinations have places that will transfer your photos from your memory card to a CD, allowing for you to take even more pictures to torture family and friends with when you come home.

I cannot stress enough the value in keeping things elementary. Prepare yourself wisely by taking care of all the details you can ahead of time. When planning to travel, remember, the internet is your friend. Pack, plan, and keep entertainment basic to help make sure that your vacation to Asia is a relaxing and memorable one. I hope that these words of advice will become good to you as you prepare to start on your vacation.

Louis Peters is a freelance writer and experienced tour guide. For aid with your next hotel trip, Louis recommends is: http//www.airtravling.blogspot.com

by: Perkins Enterprises LLC, CEO Travel Home Land


Welcome to TravelHomeLand Business Center... *****TSUNAMIS RELIEF******

We have designed a Relief Tsunamis Trip Package, from home, Associate Travel Agent program, to provide an opportunity for people all over the world, a way for them to change their lives for the better.

Whether you want to save money and have more fun when you travel or make extra money working from home, PRT Travel is here for you!
Perkins Enterprises, LLC



ONLINE Agent Training: Due to the high cost of traveling, TSUNAMI RELIEF and
Homeland Security world-wide, in protecting traveler. You now can
own and become your on INTERNET HOME-BASED TRAVEL agent. Earning
substantial income, get paid what you are worth! Home-Based Travel
Agent one-time fee: $399.00 year or $288.00 for six month to
become a Travel Agent working three or four hour at home, we
provides all of the training and
exam ONLINE. TravelHomeLand
Agency is a associated partner
with PRT Travel, Inc., a member,
in good standing, of the following organizations: CLIA,
ASTA, PATA, IATAN, Radius & ICTA.
Sign up today for your first Home
Based Travel Bussiness
Enterprise, Cheap tickets--Sign
up today and Start making travel
plan for the hoilday

Order Now

by: Mansi gupta


Luxury travel is diametrically opposed to traveling on budget. ‘Luxury’ as the term
Suggests, is to have the best of everything by paying the maximum for it. If you have money and want to make your vacations a dream come true then go for the luxuries available in the travel world.

The Hunt for a Perfect Place-
The first task to take up is to decide a lavish destination. You can go according to the season like if it is hot, its better to throng the beaches. There are three world’s top most destinations in this category and these are Caribbean, Europe and South Pacific or Oceania.

The Caribbean is the land of water. If you are a water lover then there is nothing like this place. Well known as the world’s fifth greatest water body, Caribbean has more than a hundred islands which turn from the bottom tip of Florida to the northwest of Venezuela.
These islands are blessed with exotic beauty of turquoise blue waters and sandy beaches. The temperature is perfect throughout the year at around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. What else one can look forward to are the bewitchingly beautiful beach villas with the best of amenities ranging from food to entertainment.

The next outstanding destination can be Europe. The place has the best of everything and foe everyone. Besides a rich historical past, this wealthy destination has all sorts of scenic splendors. There are spectacular slopes of Scandinavia, the humid Mediterranean and the peninsulas to steal your attention.

How can one forget the incredible South Pacific or Oceania as a luxury destination…the place has a bunch of marvelous islands like New Zealand, Australia, Micronesia etc. that make you a prisoner of their lust. The place has fascinating lagoons and lively beaches to enjoy all types of water sports and other activities for instance spinner dolphins, humpback whales and the like.
The Means to Commute-
After you select the ideal place for your journey, think about the way to reach there. Several options are available of which private jets and helicopters top the list. These private air modes have lots of benefits and convenience. Their services are available round the clock. All you have to do is to call up a private jet or airways company and ask for a jet or plane. These jets not only take least time to reach the desired destination but provide you with privacy, peace of mind, no hassle of booking etc., luggage safety, all in all a perfect journey.
If you desire to sail then cruise ships are the perfect option. Silversea Cruise Ships are a good and wise choice. They offer you the best of rooms, restaurants, entertainment like casinos etc. So there is much more to enjoy along with the oceanic magnificence.
Yacht is also a favorable option for the sea admirers. Besides accommodation there is accurate planning for all other requirements. The most renowned luxury yacht so far is known to be SeaDream II.
The accommodation, food and entertainment-
Go for the best of hotels or resorts available. Make sure they have entire set up to take care of not just your lodging but food and entertainment (casinos, bars etc.). Health spas, gyms, parlors and the like add one more feather to it.

So what are you still waiting for--Travel in Luxury- Experience the Heaven on Earth…

by: Karen Bryan


ndependent travel in Europe - Seven Secrets for Success

One: Do not try to see and do too much.

You may end up actually seeing very little. I think it is better to see more of fewer countries/regions and see them properly. You may not want to stay in one location for your whole trip. However if you choose carefully it may be possible to do several day trips from one central location. If you do decide to tour, consider spending at least two nights in some of your destinations. It can be quite tiring being on the move every day, packing and unpacking.



Two: Decide on mode of transport.

Driving will give you more flexibility but can be daunting at times and is not recommended if you mainly wish to visit cities. You may decide to take your own car if you live in Europe. If you fly you can hire a car. Beware of extra charges for additional drivers, insurance excesses, airport charges, out of hours charges etc. I always book a hire car through a UK company, with no excess.
If you use a budget airline try to only book direct flights. If you book a two let journey, the budget airlines will not assist you, as they only operate a point to point service. Public transport is pretty good in most of Europe. There are also several budget airlines you can use between countries e.g. Ryanair and Easyjet.



Three: Be aware of security of possessions.

Use a money belt, hotel safe etc. Do not have all your money/cards in one purse or wallet. If you lose it you are in trouble. This happened to me when I was in Milan: I was travelling alone and was left penniless. My credit card company did transfer funds to me but it took 24 hours! I had to borrow 10 euros from the hotel receptionist. Make sure you have travel insurance and if there is an incident get a written report from the local police station, to enable you to make a claim.



Four: Try to learn at least a few words of the language.

This will be greatly appreciated. My French is what you might describe as school girl (that was 25 years ago) but I do try when in France. Often I receive the reply in English but at least I tried. I always apologise if I cannot speak the language. I don't assume that the person I am talking to should speak English, I ask in their language if they speak English. As I do have a Scottish accent, I try to speak more slowly and clearly than usual, certainly not raising my voice.

Five: Don't be too structured.

You should allow some time just to wander around, enjoy a leisurely lunch. You do have to plan an itinerary, or you can just waste a lot of time, but it doesn't have to be written in stone! Allow yourself the opportunity to be spontaneous.


Six: Don't just stick to tourist traps.

Try to visit some authentic local restaurants, markets, villages, etc. where you will meet local people, rather than just other tourists. Surely part of the reason for going abroad it to experience at least a little of the local flavour, not just spend all your time with other tourists.

Seven: Book your accommodation in advance.

This may mean that you miss out on a charming establishment you come across in your travels, (you could always stay there on your another trip). However it will mean that you don't waste precious time going from hotel to hotel trying to find a room, having to arrive early enough at your next destination to look for accommodation. I am not even convinced that you save money by last minute searches.

by: Rick Chapo


For the fortunate few, life isn’t complete without a backpacking trip through Europe. This right of passage is believed to further the maturation process of college students, according to sociologists. Of course, others have opined that copious amounts of alcohol, sun and Amsterdam have something to do with it. Regardless of your purpose, you still have to figure out what to take.

Backpack – Getting In Touch With Your Inner Mule

Obviously, the first critical item is your backpack. While one doesn’t need to buy the $10,000 Himalaya Turbo Pack, you should also avoid the $12 blue light special. So, how do you pick a happy middle ground?

The best method for picking a backpack involves three phone books. Select/swipe/borrow three yellow page books from neighbors/friends/enemies and hit your local sporting goods store. With the books, head to the backpackapalozza section of the store and pick out a few sturdy/cool/outrageous rigs. Stuff the phone books in, adjust the straps and go for a walk. Now break out into a run to simulate future dashes for trains/ ferries/ toilets and make the sales people nervous. These steps should quickly reveal the perfect pack.

Now, you may have read other publications suggesting highly technical ways to select a backpack. Trust me, until you have run for the last ferry from Italy to Greece, you have no idea how to pick a pack. The three phone book test solves this nicely.

What To Take

There are a few mantras that every person should chant before packing for Europe. These chants were developed originally by the little known, Oh-My-Back Monks of Southeast Asia. The “OMB” Monks were known for traveling half way to far off cities, turning around, returning home and then traveling the full way to said cities. Religious experts opined as to the deep metaphysical meaning of such trips. They were later embarrassed when the monks revealed the back and forth nature of the trips was due to forgetting something, often whether they had turned off the iron. Nonetheless, such chants have become the guiding light of experienced backpackers.

Let us slowly and clearly chant together,

“I will pack only that which will not result in me being hunched over like a Sherpa.”

“Remember, I can pick it [(lower voice) toothpaste, book, soap] up over there.”

“I will not stuff thy pack to the point of bursting, for thy damn zippers always break/get snagged/refuse to work.”

“I will learn humility through wearing incredibly wrinkled clothes and shall not bring an iron.”

“I shall bring only one guide book, not one for each country that I MIGHT see.”

“I accept that I will come home wearing something I didn’t take and will have lost/traded/burned much of what I did take.”

For female travelers and, okay, the occasional male,

“I will not bring high heels or a gaggle of make-up.”

Admittedly, chanting these mantras will not bringing you immediate enlightenment. Fret, not. You can always throw items away or send them home in a box to your parents/friends/parole officer. For the resourceful backpacker, it is not unheard of to send particularly smelly/discolored/toxic clothing to an ex-girlfriend/ex-boyfriend/little brother. Follow these practical guidelines and you will soon happily be speaking in a loud voice to make foreigners understand you.

The Evidence

This is the hard part for most travelers to wrap their minds around. You will forget those special moments of your trip when you met the hunk Sven or babe Svenetta from Sweden and had a romantic evening/danced the night away/got arrested in Ios/Ibiza/the airport. Maybe not immediately, but you will eventually forget.

You will also forget or lose the contact information of people you meet, despite meticulously writing it down on the back of a coaster/napkin/your hand in a bar/poetry reading/jail at three in the morning. Surprisingly, said coaster/napkin/hand often survive the night/day/weekend and get deposited in your already trashed backpack. Of course, their presence is often forgotten when you later put a Oktoberfest mug/wet towel/toothbrush in. The extra padding at the bottom of your pack is specifically designed to deal with the decomposing result. Still, the information is gone and so is your future with Sven/Svenetta.

To properly record the magical moments of your trip, you must take a diary or journal. Don’t worry, you can burn it later before you get married/your parents get nosey/you have kids. You want a journal in a water/beer/sweat resistant case. Of course, I prefer a Nomad Travel Journal, but just make sure you take something. When you have some extra time in the bus/train/jail cell, you can record how you got there and the people you met.

Trust me, when you, Sven/Svenetta and your nine children are sitting on the porch 10 years later, you will greatly enjoy reading your journal. Of course, that assumes you didn’t burn it.

by: Mary Bradley McCauley

Travel by land
Travel by sea
Be a group Leader
And you travel FREE!

Are you a member of a group?
A reunion group?
Military?
High School?
College?
Church?
An affinity group like :
Rotary!
Knights of Columbus!
American Legion!
Masons!
Sons of Italy!
VFW!

Are you retired?
Play golf / tennis?
In a bowling league/ football pool?

If you said yes to any one of these, or are a member of any group, you can become a 'group leader and travel FREE!

Mary Ellen found a group at her book club discussion meeting. They had read Michner's "Carribean". While sipping wine after the discussion, one of the girl's mentioned how she longed to take a Caribbean Cruise. Mary Ellen told her how her parents had raved about the cruise they had taken for their 45th wedding anniversary.

The more her parents had talked about the adventure, the more Mary Ellen wanted to go but knew it was beyond her financial situation at this time. Then she remembered her mother had metnioned that she'd met a woman on board who was cruising free because she got a group together from her retirement community. The woman had told her she only needed 15 people to go as a group and she could go free.

And so the idea was planted in Mary Ellen's mind. She went to her parent's travel agent, got information about the cruise, took it to the next book club meeting. Six months later, Mary Ellen, her husband, the book group and their husbands, plus assorted friends who signed up to go, were cruising out of Miami to St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands.

Mary Ellen took a copy of one of Michner's book with her on the cruise. This time it was, "South Pacific". She wanted to get some ideas for her next free cruise

by: Sue Taylor

When planning a trip, it is advisable to spend some time doing research even if you are booking through a Travel Agent. This research could save you a significant amount of money and perhaps prevent a miserable stay in a sub-standard hotel.

Many people have moved away from using Travel Agents. This is understandable due to the availability of cheap fares and hotel rooms through the internet. However, it is wise to consider the benefits of utilizing a professional particularly when proposing to visit somewhere that you haven’t previously been. Some of the advantages of using a Travel Agent are gaining the benefit of their expertise, experience, personal service, ability and indeed the obligation to clarify and inform you of details in the fine print which you may miss if booking on your own account, their up to date knowledge of the latest deals and their ability to distill and interpret information to hopefully offer you the best value deal for your trip.

With that said, it is still prudent to conduct your own research. The Travel Agent can provide suggestions about a range of airlines you could use and different fares and advise on hotels in good areas within budget guidelines. At this point you have some great information to work off. You have not had to start from scratch. You have an idea as to which are the better priced airlines and the areas you should look at staying taking into account what you’re looking to do in a particular place. Now you can see if there are internet deals that may beat the air fares the Travel Agent has quoted you. In many cases these days, the Travel Agency will do what they can to equal or beat whatever publicized deal is out there. It is a very competitive industry. In the cases of hotels, many of the chains as well as some independents are claiming to have the best internet deals on their own sites. This is of benefit to both the consumer as well as the hotel. They don’t have to pay commission to a third party and you are dealing directly with the establishment that you are proposing to stay with who can answer any queries that you may have regarding elements of your accommodation as well as possibly saving money. You will also find that when booking direct off the hotel website that you may be offered upgrades or specials not available anywhere else.

The internet is also a great and up to date resource which can allow you to read reviews from consumers regarding airlines, hotels, sightseeing trips and just about anything that you can think of. This can be invaluable. If you go to a site such as you will find reviews on just about any hotel in the world. Many of the reviews provide excellent information about the hotel rooms, restaurants, attitude of the staff, cleanliness, activities and pool if they have one. If looking for reviews on airlines there are 2 particularly good sites

Don’t underestimate the value of a good Travel Agent but be prepared to put in some time to conduct your own research. The worst you could do is add to the excitement of planning for a trip and maybe you’ll even save yourself some money

by: Rick Chapo

Located in the Andeas, Ecuador is a land of intrigue for travelers. Travel to Ecuador and you can trek the Amazon, climb volcanoes, or loaf on beautiful beaches. Perhaps the biggest reason to travel to Ecuador is a visit to the famous Galapagos Islands. Regardless of your preference, the following attractions are all worth a look.

Quito

A hot bed of colonial architecture, Quito is the capital of Ecuador. The city is considered one of the most beautiful in South America with architecturally masterpieces of white washed buildings with red tile roofs. For those living in large cities, you will be shocked by the lack of neon in Quito.

Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the climate is an eternal spring throughout the year. The Avenue of the Amazons, "Avenida Amozonas", is a bustling area with outdoor cafes and good people watching. Ecuador has economic problems, so watch out for pickpocket thieves.

Avenue of the Volcanoes

South of Quito, the Avenue of the Volcanoes is a must see. Running down each side of the valley are mountain peaks dotted with dormant volcanoes. Small villages throughout the valley give the area an old world vibe.

Galapagos Islands

Darwin and the Galapagos Islands. Galapagos Islands and Darwin. The two are inseparable. Roughly 600 miles off the mainland, the Galapagos consist of 13 islands with exotic wildlife. You can reach the islands by flying into San Cristobal or take a boat ride to the major islands such as Isabela. At last check, entrance to the islands required a $100 permit.

by: Gareth Powell

You have permission to publish this article electronically or in print, free of charge, as long as the bylines are included. You can edit it to fit your publication. Most articles are improved by editing. If you can let me know when and where it appears it would be appreciated.

You can effectively extend a touring holiday of Europe by several days and perhaps save money. To do it you need a Eurail pass and a little forward planning.
This is how it works. With a Eurail Pass you can go from city center to city center in Europe in great comfort at a reasonable price.
The key to this is the phrase 'city center to city center'. Consider Paris. The airport, Charles de Gaulle, is 23 km north-east of Paris. If you go by taxi in either direction it costs the national debt and takes 45 minutes. There are regular buses and trains but your journey is never going to be less than 45 minutes. Leaving, you have security to go through and the airlines would like you there well before take-off. At least an hour, sometimes two hours.
Thus on any flight you find that as much as six hours, never less than four, are spent getting to the airport, checking in, flying, getting there and collecting your luggage. Then getting to the center of your destination.
By train, in every capital in Europe (I have searched and found no exception) you arrive in the center of the city.
Yes, you need to be at the train station ten minutes before the train leaves -- make it fifteen minutes to be on the safe side -- and when you get to your destination it is instant arrival. Your baggage is with you and you are there, bang in the center of the city. To test this stay with Paris for the moment.
At Easter -- one of the busiest times of the year for Paris -- I arrived at Gare de L'Est, one of the main stations of Paris. In the station was the tourist help desk -- every station in Europe has a help desk.
There I explained what I wanted -- an inexpensive (as in under 50 Euros a night) room in a hotel near Place Republique with a view over the rooftops of Paris. And I got it confirmed in ten minutes and went happily on my way. (In passing, it was the most romantic room I have ever had in a hotel anywhere and this was Paris in the spring and the chestnuts were in bloom and, alas, I was alone.)
On this trip I traveled from Salerno in Sicily right through Italy and then France, on to Spain to Barcelona to wonder at the work of Gaudi, back to Greece and then up again to Germany to Mainz. I had a lot of ground to cover and this was the best and least expensive and most pleasurable way. I saved a lot of time and a lot of money.
(And, if you are interested in old motorcycles you should know that I spent my birthday touring Sicily on a 350cc Royal Enfield which was an exact replica of the sixties model but made in Madras. I could have hired the 500 cc model but thought that going a bit over the top.)
You will typically only be dealing with relatively short travel times -- Paris to Lyon is two hours, Amsterdam to Cologne three hours, Geneva to Paris three-and-a-half hours and so on -- and these will be pleasurable experiences because the trains are fast, comfortable (especially in first class) and wonderfully quiet.
The best example of the modern trains of Europe are the TGV trains of France, which are part of the EuroCity network.
I am writing this while I travel on the TGV express -- TGV stands for Train a Grande Vitesse which translates, roughly, as high speed train -- from Paris to Avignon. The quietness -- we are running on rubber tyres -- is eerie. This is first class, and there is a three seat configuration in the carriage -- two and one. I am in the single seat, which is adjustable and comfortable.
There is a tip-down table, on which rests my computer.
We are now nipping through the suburbs of Paris at more than 200 kilometres an hour. We will eventually reach our maximum cruise speed, which is more than 270 kilometres an hour. There is no sway, no rattle, no lurch, no jerk.
A gentleperson's conveyance for the grand tour of Europe.
For trains between big cities, the best bets are the super fast name trains like (ah ! the romance in the names) Catalan Tago, Maria Theresa, Voltaire, Leonardo da Vinci, Etoile du Nord. These are very fast and are almost never late.
Sometimes you will use the train only as high-speed, economical and comfortable transport, but at other times the train ride can be a sightseeing trip as well.
Bernina Express in Switzerland, the Bergen Express in Norway, the Loisirail in France are examples where the journey is part of the scenic holiday.
Important points to remember:
• Bear in mind that Europeans very sensibly use a 24-hour clock in matters of this sort. That is: five o'clock in the afternoon becomes 1700 hours and half-past nine in the evening is 2130. Easy once you get the hang of it.
• As you start your train journeys you need to have your Eurailpass validated, for which you will have to show your passport. Do it before you get on any train at the information window of any largish railway station. You will be given back your ticket and a validation slip.
• Keep your validation slip separate from the ticket. It constitutes proof of ownership. (If you are a worry wart like me, make a photocopy of both straight away and remember to keep the copy in the lining of your suitcase.)
• Make sure you go to the right station. Every city in Europe has several different railway stations. This TGV train I am riding started from Gare de Lyon in Paris. But there are six other mainline train stations in that city of light. The concierge at your hotel will advise you.
• When you get to the station make sure you get on the right platform and into the right car. The signs are always very clear and railway staff are always most helpful. There will be a board confirming the name, number and time of departure of the train at the entrance to the platform when you get there.
• Getting into the right car, as opposed to the right train, is essential; in modern trains it is the car that is sent by computer control to its destination. On the side of every car is an identification panel that tells you the number of the car, where the car is heading and the names of the most important stops on the way. Check the panel carefully and, if you are still in doubt, show your ticket to the conductor of the train and explain exactly where you are going.
• Limits. An Eurail pass is for x number of journeys over a given period of time. Do not waste the pass on short trips.
Example: I was in Nice and had to go to Cannes. I went by train and bought a ticket. You do not waste your Eurail Pass on journeys on trips that take less than an hour.
• Ubiquity. Every station seems to have a Eurail booking desk. Be organized and try and book as far ahead as you can if you want a sleeper. These trains do get fully booked, especially during the holiday season, and the earlier you book, the more certain you are of getting the right train.
• Sleep on the train. If it is a very long journey take the evening train and sleep on board. On a first class Eurail tickets the sleeper is part of the package.
This has great advantages. It saves you the cost of one night's accommodation and it gets what could be a longish journey over in considerable comfort and style. For example, I went from Salerno in Sicily right up the leg of Italy to Genoa and did it on a night train and slept like a baby.
One has to be careful.
There is a story about a passionate young couple who used their sleeper not for sleeping. In a moment of ecstasy the young lady hung on like mad to the nearest object. Sadly, it was the emergency stop communication cord.
• If possible, take your own snacks. There was a thought in my mind that food on European trains would be a gourmet's delight. In my experience, it is very far from that. On the other hand, almost all station restaurants serve good food at very reasonable prices provided you stay away from the fast food chains.
• Get the right stop. As you come into a city make sure you do not get off at a suburban stop which is, typically, the stop before the central station. If in doubt, ask the ticket inspector or the guard. No need to be able to speak the language. Just show your ticket and they will tell you what to do.
• Travel light. If you cannot easily carry your baggage you are stuffed. Porters do not exist. Not at any station I have ever seen.
• Use all of the pass. When planning your itinerary, be bold. You can go from Greece to Oslo and pretty much everywhere else in between.
• Not the UK. All of this applies to Europe except for Britain. A Eurail Pass does not work there. Britain is not part of Europe. Whatever made you think otherwise?
Sites which can help
Eurail
http://www.eurail.com/
It claims, correctly, that it is the only official Eurail site. This is true. But it is not the only site that can give you information. And it is certainly not the only site that can sell you tickets. It does, however, make a very good starting point because from here you can sort out potential timings and itineraries.
Europe
http://www.raileurope.com/us/index.htm
This is not the official site but it might just as well be considered as such. There is nothing about Eurail that it does not know.
Europe by Eurail
http//www.railpass.com
Again, this is a commercial firm selling tickets but that does not stop it having a load of useful information on the site.
Boots 'n All Travel
http://www.bootsnall.com/eurail/
Would you buy a ticket from a company with a name like that? Let us not be snobbish. It has great expertise on Eurail and its site is very helpful.
Eurail Net
http://www.eurailnet.com/
Sounds official but it is still a commercial company selling tickets. You will not find much differential in prices between the companies but you will find a wealth of information on sites such as this and work out the most economical pass for your particular trip.

Emirates^® has been recognized many times over the years for the quality of our in-flight cuisine, the breadth of our in-flight entertainment, and the excellence of our overall service. But we refuse to rest on our laurels. Each award drives us to develop even better products and services, and while we are certainly proud of our reputation for overall excellence among global travelers, we are equally proud of achievements that many of our passengers might not be aware of, such as our international cargo service.

8.00am: Emirates^® executives are meeting with one of our aircraft suppliers about how to save more weight from its design. Collaborative design and planning will help save weight, fuel burn and C02 emissions. Pursuing lighter and stronger materials in aircraft chosen by Emirates makes them more efficient, burning less fuel and therefore reducing emissions. One example involves Emirates and Airbus cutting five tons of further weight from future A380s.

8.45am: A customer in Mumbai checks in to fly to Dubai on Emirates^® using our electronic check-in system. To date we have saved significant paper and therefore thousands of mature trees. Further, Emirates’ enforcement of set cabin and hold baggage weight limits ensures that for every kilogram of weight saved, 34,000 liters of fuel is saved each year.

10.10am: An Emirates^® flight has departed for Melbourne. Using pioneering technology developed by Emirates and Airservices Australia (ASA), this aircraft will follow prevailing winds to save precious time and resources on this 14 hour journey – making up to an 8% fuel saving. Instead of traditional fixed route structures over land-based navigation fixes, we have worked with ASA to develop and utilize inertial GPS-enhanced navigation fixes that will allow the flight to follow the best tailwind to track deep into the Southern Ocean on its way Downunder.

11.00am: Emirates’ new A380 aircraft is departing for New York. This aircraft, which is 30% quieter as it departs and lands into John F. Kennedy International, will also use up to 30% less fuel per passenger than typical other aircraft crossing the Atlantic.

2.00pm: Emirates^® cabin crew arrive at Group Headquarters in Dubai by bus from staff accommodation. They are seamlessly checked in and move from Headquarters to the airport and aircraft through an advanced design that was purpose-built for Emirates to ensure efficiency, ease of travel and best use of resources. They access their departing aircraft by a specially designed tunnel connecting Headquarters to the airside terminal and aircraft. Much of Emirates new dedicated airport infrastructure at Terminal 3 is underground which can save energy requirements by as much as 80%.

2.20pm: Employees from Dnata and other Emirates^® Group companies are meeting to plan their annual cleaning of the Dubai Creek program, where 30 employees will don scuba gear to help keep Dubai’s famous waterway cleaner for another year.

4.00pm: One of Emirates^® new Boeing 777-300ER, which uses some of the most advanced aircraft engines in the world, is taxiing to its aerobridge at Dubai Airport after landing from London. The crew are using just one engine to taxi the aircraft, saving precious fuel.

4.30pm: In Emirates’ new state-of-the-art Flight Catering operation, employees are separating waste for recycling, including tons of paper, aluminum, and office waste. Emirates^® recycles over 100 tons of waste each month.

6.35pm: An Emirates^® aircraft is flying over Ukrainian air space on its way to Toronto. This was previously a rarity until Emirates negotiated aviation access in Ukrainian airspace on certain routes that saves five minutes per flight.

9.30pm: An Emirates^® flight from Germany lands at Dubai Airport. All newspapers and paper waste on board is separated by our ground crew and prepared for recycling. Five tons a day of paper will be recycled, saving 35,000 trees a year.

11.05pm: Members of Emirates^® Engineering are cleaning the engines of an Emirates SkyCargo aircraft as part of its ritual maintenance process. A clean and well maintained engine is at its most efficient and will use less fuel. Carbon dioxide emissions are also cut. The team are ensuring they remove pollutants that stick to the compressors of engines to allow for future optimal performance.

• Aviation is one of the world’s most important economic and social catalysts and employs 32 million people worldwide
• Our customers, staff and governments are increasingly conscious about the environment and emissions
• As a responsible company, we want to make a difference and can make a difference
• However aviation is one small part – or 2% – of the C02 emission problem and therefore no matter how many advances we make, we can only ever be one part of the global solution. Even factoring in likely growth, aviation is forecast to reach only 3% of emissions by 2050. Read more about this at airtravling.blogspot.com
• Our focus is on how to be an ecologically-efficient organization based on the concept of growing our business while trying to use fewer resources and creating less waste and pollution. If we achieve these aims we win for customers, the environment and our business
• Emirates^® eco-efficiency means selecting and operating the world’s most eco-efficient fleet, driving eco-efficiency throughout our organization – on the ground and in the air - and being an eco-efficient leader in our region
• Emirates^® supports and is implementing our industry’s four-part strategy to reduce emissions. Read more about this at airtravling.blogspot.com
• This will include the use of new technology throughout our Group; spending billions on buying the latest aircraft; encouraging governments to make air navigation more fuel and emission friendly; and being ever more efficient with our ground and office operations
• We are committed to further reducing fuel use and emissions per passenger (from one of the lowest per passenger fuel and emission levels of any airline)
• Other goals include staff education, waste reduction and recycling, lower energy use and greater communication
• The Emirates^® Group seeks to do more and will continue to innovate, like our support for the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and the creation of two of the world’s most sustainable conservation-based resorts.

A fast-growing international airline with one of the youngest fleets in the sky and more than 400 awards for excellence worldwide, Emirates® is one of two key corporations in the Emirates® Group. The other is DnataTM, one of the largest travel organizations in the Middle East with over 8,000 employees handling passenger, cargo, ramp and technical services for numerous airlines at Dubai International Airport.

Emirates and Dnata are committed to providing their respective clients and customers with the highest possible level of professional service. For more information, we invite you to visit the

A fast-growing international airline with one of the youngest fleets in the sky and more than 400 awards for excellence worldwide, Emirates® is one of two key corporations in the Emirates® Group. The other is DnataTM, one of the largest travel organizations in the Middle East with over 8,000 employees handling passenger, cargo, ramp and technical services for numerous airlines at Dubai International Airport.

Emirates and Dnata are committed to providing their respective clients and customers with the highest possible level of professional service. For more information, we invite you to visit the

By: Gray Rollins



You've been arrested on a DUI charge. Now what do you do? Although most people will recommend that you hire a lawyer to represent your best interests many people do not do so, often because of shame and embarrassment. Whether or not you hire a lawyer can have a big impact on your case so you may want to think carefully before making a decision. If you do decide to hire a DUI lawyer there are several things to consider so that you find the best lawyer possible to represent you.

Because DUI laws vary among each state hire a lawyer that has expertise with the laws in the state where you were arrested. Also, hire a lawyer that specializes in DUI cases. Depending on where you live you may not be able to find a good lawyer that practices DUI law exclusively, but look for a lawyer who spends at least half of his or her time handling DUI cases. It may be tempting to hire your local lawyer who deals with a veritable buffet of issues such as DUI's, divorce, wills, and bankruptcy, etc. but DUI law is extensive and continually changing so you will likely be much better hiring a specialist in DUI.

Before you hire a DUI lawyer, or any other type of lawyer, meet with him or her first. Most lawyers will not charge you to meet with them while you're looking for someone to handle your case. Having a face to face meeting with your lawyer before hiring him or her is good for both the client and the attorney. You'll want to hire someone you feel comfortable working with. A face to face meeting helps you determine whether or not you feel comfortable. It also helps the lawyer decide if he or she feels comfortable working with you and wants to take on your case.

Before going to any consultations with lawyers (and you should consult with at least two lawyers before making a decision) do some research. The yellow pages is a good place to look for a lawyer but remember that the DUI lawyer with the biggest ad is not necessarily the best lawyer for you to hire. He or she is just the person with the biggest ad. You want a lawyer with DUI expertise and experience.

The library is another good place to do research. Your local library should have a copy of the Martindale Hubbell law directory. The directory does its best to list every lawyer in the United States along with his or her area(s) of speciality. You can search the directory by either location or area of law each lawyer deals with. The directory is also available online. People you know can also be a good source of information regarding a good lawyer.

Create a list of questions you want to ask each lawyer during the consultation so you can compare each lawyer equally before deciding who you would like to hire to represent you.

A few questions you may want to have on the list you make are:

1) What percent of the cases you handle are DUI or impaired driver? (Remember that you want someone who is very familiar with the current laws in your state.)

2) What do you charge and what is your fee structure? (You'll want to know the most you'll have to pay as well as how much you have to pay upfront. Many DUI lawyers charge a flat fee, which is a set amount for your case whether or not it goes to trial. Some lawyers charge an hourly fee. Others have staggered fee structures that break things into phases. They may charge a flat fee up until trial. If the case goes to trial then there's another fee to pay. If the entire fee is required upfront but you are financially unable to pay it all upfront ask if a payment arrangement can be worked out. It can't hurt to ask. The worst answer you can get is "no.")

3) What costs besides attorney fees will I be responsible for? (In addition to lawyer fees you may be responsible for things like court costs and filing fees).

4) Will you be the lawyer handling my case or will someone else in the firm be the primary lawyer on my case? (This question is especially important if you are consulting at a firm with several lawyers. Some people have been very frustrated when they found out the lawyer they consulted with wasn't the lawyer who handled the majority of their case.)

By: lawfaq


4 The experienced only: Would U respect a lawyer who told U upfront , 'U don't have a case? Y or N -Why?
Please share your real life experiences. I've been a practicing lawyer for more than 25 years, and I agree with amy.mehta's answer. Another point is that litigation is a very stressful experience for the client. If.

a lawyer from india please contact me!!?
reagrading a legal issue, i need advice. please could you leave me your email. thank you Check Bombay Bar Association site at http://www.bombaybar.com/lawyer - You may check yellow pages for names of various lawyer. You should specify your need. - You cannot use the FreeLawAnswer for soliciting a personal.

A lawyer is suing the CA Dept of Education because the new exit exam will fail too many children?
What's wrong with this picture? Isn't the fact the kids are failing the problem, and not the exam itself? That was my first reaction. Upon thinking further though, I noted the ESL student bias remark and it made me wonder..

A lawyer overcharged me. What can I do? I live in Texas.?
This attorney knew that we were going to drop him and he overcharged us with a big bill at the end. Attorneys seem to have all of the leverage. I live in Texas. What did he overcharge you for? Usually a lawyer tells you before taking your.

A never married dad wants at least joint custody of 3year old daughter in michigan and can not afford a lawyer
mother is uncooperative and caddy. father makes $30000 per year and can't afford lawyer, she will not give joint custody willingly, what can father do? Contact a local law school and ask them for the phone number of.

adult child suing her parents?
Can a 32 year old woman who has bi-polar and a history of problems sue her parents for money claiming she was abused as a child? Are there such cases ? Do parents need to take a lawyer to defend themselves? How do they prove such wicked accusations? Thank you for any replies. A.

do federal public defenders work as good as a federal paid lawyer?
do you have to get a high priced lawyer to help you out with federal stuff or is a fedreal public defender just as good? but also does the feds just do as they please? Hi The role of a lawyer is very important and he must.

Do I have a chance in court without a lawyer concerning probate and civil suits?
The probate has been going on since june 28 2003 and has not been resolved yet. My siblings have filed 4 civil suits against me concerning the probate. I should mention my siblings have plenty of money to hire numerous lawyers and I do.

do i have a legal right to rec. records (medical) from my laywer after case is settled?
with no other choice, i am applying for social security disability. while working with my lawyer assured me that he would provide aid in applying for social security. my case settled a year and a half or so ago. i rec. a.

Do I have any legal recourse if a collection agency mistakes me for someone else?
Even after I had given them the proof they asked for they forced me to get a lawyer to get it cleared up. It would be hard to deal with without a lawyer. The simplest thing would be to show the proof, document it,.

Do I have to pay taxes on a law suit settlement for sexual harassment and wrongful termination?
In 2004 I finally received a settlement for a wrongful termination in 2001. I was terminated for complaining about a person who was physically hurting me and making lude comments. The company finally paid me, 1/2 went to the lawyer, and then.

Do I need a lawyer? Can't afford one, but need help for my son.?
My son has been recently diagnosed with autism. My son's father has visitation rights with the usualy schedule of every other holiday so on and so forth. The problem is that my son and I live in Pennsylvania, and his father lives in Illinois. The.

Do I need a lawyer? (if your a lawyer please answer)?
I was at sporting event (MMA kinda of like a boxing event) me and my friend were seated near the locker room and I had been drinking, I was yelling at the ring but one of the fighters in the locker room thought I was insulting him which.

do I need a lawyer? please read details below?
I had to do 20 hrs. public service work for a bad check to sonic. I paid the restitution, and the fine, went to a hot check class but I am in college in another city and could not get the public service work performed by the end of probation..

Do i need a lawyer?
I received a subpoena to be a witness in a case against my ex boyfriend. The entire case is bogus. He brought phony charges against one of my friends who supported me during our breakup, and she in turn filed charges against him. The things he wrote about her were so petty that the.

Do i need a real estate lawyer before I close on my home purchase?
I'm buying a home without a real estate agent. Need some advise on whether I need a real-estate lawyer to review my home contract. I don't think the mortgage lender will provide this for me, or will they? Advice needed. The mortgage lender will not.

Do I need to hire a lawyer to file a custody petition? I cant afford one right now.?
How exactly do i file a petition for custody? Can anyone do it? You didn't give much information. Relevant information would include: State you live in, your current relationship with the child(ren)'s other parent. That said, I can give you some.

Do i really need a lawyer to file for petition to modify custody in the state of oregon? im from california?
i have the papers to file. is it possible that i could just file the paper myself if i have already all the supporting documents and written documentaries to support my case. I am going against a relative.

do i really need a lawyer when buying a house (i'm not going to work with an agent)?
and where can i find one and how much does a lawyer cost? BUYERS PAY NOTHING BY USING AN AGENT! The seller pays an agent, not the buyer. It costs you nothing to use one, so why not use one? They.

Do I really need a real estate lawyer to close on a house in Florida? Why?
I am closing on a home and reviewed the contract, the title company has confirmed the title.. Why then is it important to get a real estate lawyer..when it's not required. I'm on the fence here..not sure what to do. In Florida, you.

Do Law Students help out in court?
and if so, what do they do? There are law school 'clinical programs' in which 2d and 3d year students get to represent low-income people in court, under a lawyer's supervision. There are other programs where the students work as interns in law firms, and get to do some of the research.

Do lawyers ever agree to defend a case on contingency?
Like, will a lawyer say, OK, I'll defend you and if you win the case, then you pay me $X. But if you lose, you don't owe me anything. The only cases I know of that are taken on a contingency are Civil cases where there is a settlement.

Do lawyers have initials? (i.e. M.D., PhD, etc)?
doctors have M.D. or D.O. do lawyers have anything? A Juris Doctorat (JD) is the typical 3-year degree, but a lawyer may also choose to get an LLM degree, an advanced masters in a particular area of law (for example, you can get an LLM in tax law. - J.D. Juris.

Do lawyers vote liberal or conservative? Where's the stats?
Liberal. Trial lawyers love Democrats, as they are anti-big business and tend to pass laws that give lawyers a greater chance to sue and make money. - Cheney's probably vote liberal. - why you need a lawyer? - not every lawyet is a trial lawyer. What about corporate lawyers,.

Mock Trial..?
I'm in 8th grade and am going to participate in a mock trial this Friday. I'm not a lawyer, just a witness, but we're doing it in a real court room and in front of a real judge and everything. I have my direct exam down really good, but I'm scared of cross exam, because I don't.

My car has been repaired for the same defect more than four times and the problem is still occurring?
what should I do? should i take the help of a lawyer ? Take the help of Lawyer. Your issue comes under lemon law. Lemon laws often vary from state to state and may not necessarily cover used or leased.

My cousin, Kevin, has a medical malpractice lawsuit filed. His problem is that he is trying to find a lawyer.?
He tried two *contingency fee lawyers and all that the first one did was order his medical records, but that lawyer made him wait for 8 months before the lawyer said that he was going to have a doctor.

My ex is planning to leave the country with my child. i don't want that to happen?
i live in south africa and am not sure of the rules here, but as far as i know if you bring a child into canada you need both parents consent right I agree with Kimmie. Get to a lawyer or barrister.

My first speeding ticket in a construction zone?
i got one yesterday, and one today. i know i know, i have the worst of luck and was following traffic on the second one. i don't need chastising. what do/can i do? do i go to court, hire a lawyer, pay the fees? what do u suggest? Personally if it.

My friend paid a cash bail.said I must have lawer court today 8am&no lawer whats going 2happen 2me plesae help
i went to jail friend got me out paid cach bail they told me that i needed a lawyer be for i go to court but i have not had any money to get oneI have to be in.

My lawyer 's father died during my trial, became distracted and didn't fairly represent me. What can I do?
I wrote the judge a letter in protest of instructing my lawyer to represent me while he was destracted by grief but now she is charging me with contempt. How do we get rid of unfair judges? Can I be.