Magellan Travel Books

Steeped in antiquity yet bursting with all that's fashionably modern, Italy is the birthplace of La Dolce Vita - the sweet life that celebrates beauty and happiness.

Climate

Winters are long and cold in the northern alps; the summers can be rainy with frequent storms. The far south is warm but often lashed by the sirocco - the hot and humid African wind that brings weeks of stifling heat to the areas south of Rome. Pleasant temperatures make spring and autumn the best times to visit Italy.

Accommodation:from cheap stays to luxury resorts

Check on the internet for the range, location and cost of hotels in Italy

Milan:cutting edge design and fine shopping

Milan's drab facade belies the fact that it's the innovation capital of Europe.

transport: getting there and getting around

Malpensa airport, located about 31 miles northwest of Milan, handles most international flights. For domestic and some European flights, Linate airport is used. Stazione Central, which as the name suggests is in the city centre offers an extensive rail network.

Milan has an efficient public transport system is efficient. It includes four underground lines, buses and trams.

climate

Other than the odd heat wave, the climate in Milan is mostly temperate.

accommodation:from cheap stays to luxury resorts

Check on the internet for the range, location and cost of Milan hotels

events:what's on and what's hot

For all its consumer-driven culture, Milan celebrates the spiritual as well as the worldly.

*The first ten days of June celebrate the Festa del Naviglio, a potpourri of parades, music and various performances.

*The Milan Jazz Festival gets the city swinging in November.

*The Festa di Sant'Ambrogio, on 7 December is celebrated with services, offerings and fairs around the Fiera di Milano. This is also the day that Milan's renowned opera house La Scala opens its season.

Rome:the eternal city

Drenched in history and weighted with monuments famous the world over - the Vatican and the Colosseum, Rome stands as the epitome of history and culture.

transport:getting there and getting away

Leonardo da Vinci (Fiumicino) airport is 16 miles southwest of the city with the Stazione Termini direct train running hourly into the city. The main bus station is located outside the Stazione Termini. The Rome Metro service has two lines, both of which go through Termini. It runs from 5:30 a.m to 11.30 p.m. and 0:30 on Saturdays.

climate

The climate is mild with sunny skies and pleasant temperatures. However July and August can be oppressively hot, November is often rainy, and December to February can be chill.

accommodation:from cheap stays to luxury resorts

Check on the internet for the range, location and cost of Rome hotels

Events: what's on and what's hot

*Holy Week (Easter) is time when Catholics from all over the world arrive on pilgrimages to visit the city's churches and to hear the Pope at the Vatican. On Good Friday a procession of the Cross goes from the Colosseum to Capitoline Hill.

The Estate Romana (Roman Summer), is at the heart of Roman social life from June to September. It's a time when the city reverberates to free concerts, street theatre and outdoor cinema.

In September museums, galleries and shops stay open all night from 20:00-08:00 on the occasion called Notte Bianca (white night). It's also a time of free concerts and other happenings all over the city.

If you are in the Los Angeles, California area and are in need of a charter bus, consider using the services of VanGo. VanGo has a fleet of charter buses all ready and waiting to fulfill your needs.

When you are considering renting a charter bus there are a few things you should keep in mind. The size of your party is most important. When you are looking at a bus charter company make certain that they will have a bus available that will accommodate your needs. With the fleet of charter buses at VanGo that won’t be a problem.

The reason for your wanting to secure a bus charter is also important. At VanGo, our charter buses are perfect for any setting. Whether you need a bus for a business excursion or you are planning on taking a wedding party down the coast, you’ll find exactly what you need at VanGo.

A common misconception is that a charter bus has to actually be a bus. At VanGo we recognize that you might want to charter something other than a large bus. That’s why we offer a selection of limousines and passenger vans. If your group is smaller in size you don’t have to forgo comfort. You can still get all the benefits of bus charters but in a size that’s better suited to the occasion.

The drivers we employ are all very well versed in the logistics of driving through Los Angeles and California. They can either take your party on a direct route to your destination or you can take a charter bus on a more scenic adventure past some of the Los Angeles areas best known tourist attractions.

Your comfort is top priority when you take a bus charter with VanGo. Each passenger receives the same quality treatment. You’ll ride to your destination in comfort and depending on the size of the bus you may also enjoy refreshments.

At VanGo we recognize that the bus charter experience needs to be a comfortable and relaxed one. You shouldn’t have to worry about your trip once you step onto the charter bus. You’ll find yourself in our very capable hands and you can ride without a worry in the world.

When you are in Los Angeles and looking for a charter bus experience, look to VanGo. You’ll ride in style and comfort whether your group is big or small. For a great California charter bus experience, VanGo is definitely the way to go.

Prevent Insect Bites

Many diseases, like malaria and dengue, are spread through insect bites. One of the best protections is to prevent insect bites by:

- Using insect repellent (bug spray) with 30%-50% DEET. Picaridin, available in 7% and 15% concentrations, needs more frequent application.

- Wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and a hat outdoors.

- Remaining indoors in a screened or air-conditioned area during the peak biting period for malaria (dusk and dawn).

- Sleeping in beds covered by nets treated with permethrin, if not sleeping in an air-conditioned or well-screened room.

- Spraying rooms with products effective against flying insects, such as those containing pyrethroid.

Be Careful about Food and Water

Diseases from food and water are the leading cause of illness in travelers. Follow these tips for safe eating and drinking:

- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially before eating. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand gel (with at least 60% alcohol).

- Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated (bubbly) drinks in cans or bottles. Avoid tap water, fountain drinks, and ice cubes. If this is not possible, learn how to make water safer to drink.

- Do not eat food purchased from street vendors.

- Make sure food is fully cooked.

- Avoid dairy products, unless you know they have been pasteurized.

- Diseases from food and water often cause vomiting and diarrhea. Make sure to bring diarrhea medicine with you so that you can treat mild cases yourself.

Avoid Injuries

Car crashes are a leading cause of injury among travelers. Protect yourself from these injuries by:

- Not drinking and driving.

- Wearing your seat belt and using car seats or booster seats in the backseat for children.

- Following local traffic laws.

- Wearing helmets when you ride bikes, motorcycles, and motor bikes.

- Not getting on an overloaded bus or mini-bus.

- Hiring a local driver, when possible.

- Avoiding night driving.

Other Health Tips

To avoid animal bites and serious diseases (including rabies and plague) do not handle or pet animals, especially dogs and cats, If you are bitten or scratched, wash the wound immediately with soap and water and seek medical attention to determine if mediation or anti-rabies vaccine is needed.

To avoid infections such as HIV and viral hepatitis do not share needles for tattoos, body piercing, or injections.

To reduce the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases always use latex condoms.

To prevent fungal and parasitic infections, keep feet clean and dry, and do not go barefoot, especially on beaches where animals may have defecated.

It doesn’t take much to prepare for a safe and healthy vacation. Use common sense, make some pre-trip preparations, and enjoy yourself while on your holiday.

Students, backpackers, family vacationers, business buddies, budget travelers, and individual traveler have something in common: they all want to get the best travel deal possible. And while everybody wants to get the best price out of every travel deal they made, more and more people are searching and digging dipper to get the price they can afford.

You too can get the best travel deal the next time you fly to another country. Here are some of the ways of achieving it:

Timing is best factor in achieving the travel deal you desire. If you want a cheaper flight, schedule it during off-peak season. For example, if you want to travel to Europe simply for vacation and not after celebrations and festivals, don’t target dates where you have to rub shoulders with other travelers. Remember that during peak seasons, demands are high. As a consequence, air travel tickets, hotel accommodations, restaurant reservations, are rentals, and everything in the middle goes nowhere but up. Traveling during this season means high travel cost.

Your destination also affects the type of travel deal you can get. If in case you want travel in any country in South America, you can notice upon your online research how prices differ from one country to another. The best trick you can do is to choose the cheapest country. Oftentimes, type of accommodation is relatively the same with other high-rated countries.

One of the biggest and heaviest one-time-pain in your pocket is paying for the plane tickets. So, you would want to get the cheapest seats possible. But choosing one does not necessarily mean you have to seat on the tail or at the most isolated part of the plane. You can always check for discount air travel seats both online or on airline companies. Usually, these discounted tickets are only waiting to be tapped. Or, if you really want to get good travel deal easily, fly with small airline companies offering extra low airfare.

Getting a cheap travel deal does not mean savings up to the extent that you have to skip meals or deprive yourself of good foods. Common misconception of first time travelers is that great foods could only be acquired on fancy restaurants. This is totally wrong. You can enjoy your day eating local delicacies at very affordable prices. In Spain, if you want to taste the tapa, you don’t need to go to your hotel restaurant, you always have the option to roam around the city and locate very affordable dining places where tapas are served at cheap price. In Paris, you don’t have to seat next to all the tourists on a caf

Road trips are back in season. From hiking and camping to beach trips, families are gearing up for months of warm weather filled with exciting outings. As parents plan for busy days on the road, keeping family members energized and entertained often takes some planning.

Here are some suggestions to keep everyone happy and well-fed for traveling:

* Although keeping kids entertained on the road can be a challenge for any parent, leave the house prepared. Bring books and music that the whole family will enjoy, and don't forget about classic games such as "I Spy" and "Go Fish."

* When packing food for a day trip, keep it simple. Fill a cooler with a variety of sliced fruits and veggies stored in plastic baggies for hassle-free munching. Include drinkable yogurts, individually wrapped cheese slices and granola bars.

For a hearty snack or meal while on the go, try Smucker's Peanut Butter and Jelly Uncrustables sandwiches, made with peanut butter and either grape jelly or strawberry jam sealed within white bread. These thaw-and-serve sandwiches are individually wrapped. Store them in the freezer, along with extra fruit juice containers and water bottles, and add them to the cooler before hitting the road. By lunchtime, the drinks and sandwiches will be ready.

* If a long road trip is in store, plan for several stops throughout the day. Giving kids - and parents - time outside of the car will help everyone stay energized throughout the drive. - NU

The virus that causes “stomach-flu” or gastroenteritis is the norovirus. This kind of virus cannot be treated by antibiotics which needs special medical attention and it only grows inside the body.

Vomiting, nausea, diarrhea and stomach cramping are some of the symptoms that determine if a person has a norovirus. People who have the norovirus suddenly feel very sick and experience the symptoms for about one or two days. But the illness begins about two to three days after getting the virus. But there are also some cases that the illness may be experienced as early as 12 hours after exposure. During this stage, there are some people especially among the youth, elderly and weak immune system persons who get dehydrated because they are unable to intake water.

But if a person is starting to get ill, vomits and experiences diarrhea, they should already take in a lot of fluids to prevent dehydration. It is said that dehydration is the most serious effect brought by the norovirus and should be avoided as possible. Young children, the elderly and the sick are most common victims of dehydration.

There are many ways of acquiring the norovirus. It can be through eating food or drinking liquids contaminated by it. Placing their hands in their mouths after touching a surface or object contaminated with it. Also, people can get the said virus by having direct contact with the person who has it already like caring for people will the illness.

Much attention is needed to people working in day-care centers or nursing homes who have norovirus illness. Because it is highly infectious, it can spread rapidly with such environments. Also, the stool and the vomit of the people who have norovirus illness are contagious.

Sadly, there has not been any antiviral medical treatment made for the norovirus nor has there been any vaccination for its prevention.

Washing the hands especially after using the toilet and changing the diapers can prevent the person from getting the norovirus. Before eating fruits, vegetables and steamed oysters, it should be washed thoroughly. Disinfecting the surfaces having the norovirus by means of a household cleanser should be done to prevent recurrence. Linens that may be contaminated with the norovirus after illness should be removed immediately whereas the clothing should be washed. The vomit and/or stool should be discarded or flushed in the toilet. In addition, keeping and making sure that the surrounding area is kept clean to avoid getting the illness again.

Sometimes, things beyond our control happen to ruin what could otherwise have been a pleasant and memorable airline experience. It could be poor service, bad food, a mishandled luggage, or any other problem.

In such cases, it is always best to resolve these issues on the spot with the airline’s customer service agents as calmly and with as much courtesy as possible. The ticket you hold is a contract of service between you and the airline. It covers your rights, and in turn informs you, the passenger, of the airline’s guidelines.

However, it is understandable that sometimes, complaints cannot be dealt with on the spot. In that case, here are the pointers of making an effective complaint letter to the airline’s customer service office at their headquarters.

Take notes of the details at the time the incident occurs. Remember to write down the names of the airline employees who have attended you on your complaint.

Keep all your travel documents such as ticket receipts, boarding passes, baggage check stubs, and receipts for out-of-pocket expenses incurred because of the complaint. Make copies of these and attach them as supporting documents to your complaint.

As much as possible, send a typed and signed letter. Make it brief and limit it to one page in length. Remember to include your contact details on the letter.

Keep your tone businesslike and stay focused on the matter at hand. Do not exaggerate, do not beat around the bush, and do not veer to other subjects unrelated to your complaint.

Describe what happened and give details such as dates, names of involved parties and flight numbers. Take note of the employees involved who were rude and made the situation worse, as well as those who were particularly helpful to you.

State clearly what you want the carrier to do regarding your complaint. Inform them if you have suffered any special inconvenience or monetary losses, as well as your estimate of these losses. Do not hesitate to demand for a monetary settlement or some other compensation or a letter of apology, but do make your demands reasonable.

A letter of complaint, if done properly, can make the airline take you seriously. It could also make them implement measures that would prevent the same thing from happening to other people, therefore improving the service they give to their clients.

One of the ever-popular Balearic Islands, Mallorca is the perfect location for a quiet romantic holiday or full-on family fun.

Where is it?

Mallorca is the middle, and largest, of a set of islands set in the Mediterranean off the east cost of Spain. It has a varied terrain, which means that although the majority of visitors come for the coast and beaches, there is a growing interest in the island’s fertile plains and mountainous regions.

Where can I stay?

If you want to avoid the over-developed resorts that dominate parts of Mallorca, then choose a boutique hotel. Less stuffy and more intimate than regular hotels, yet with discreet staff and service when you want it, a boutique Mallorcan hotel is the ideal way to truly experience the island. The Palacio Ca Sa Galesa, for example, is set right in the heart of Palma, and boasts the only swimming pool in the Gothic district. No detail has been overlooked, so you immediately feel comfortable in any of its 12 rooms. Alternatively, visit Palma on a day trip from Scott’s Hotel, which is a charming boutique hotel set in a medieval wine-producing village off the main tourist route. Comfort is a key theme here, with goosedown pillows and breakfast until noon.

What can I see?

Visit Palma for a really cosmopolitan view of Mallorca. Half of the island’s population live here so it comes as no surprise that sophisticated bars and classy shops sit easily alongside ancient streets and the astounding Gothic Cathedral. It pays to spend some time exploring the city &ndash whether it’s taking in the amazing view from the waterfront, wandering in and out of the tiny shops in the old Arab Quarter, or taking in the sights from a traditional pony and trap. Further afield, Mallorca boasts a range of interesting towns, secluded bays, and mountain walks that reward with perfect views.

How do I get around?

There are many low cost flights from Europe to Mallorca’s main city, Palma de Mallorca. From there, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to travelling around the island. There is a comprehensive bus network that takes you from town to town, or you can hire a car so that you can be in complete control of your itinerary. Alternatively, you can rent a moped, or work off your meals by cycling. It’s never too far from one town to another, so there’s plenty of time for sight seeing however you choose to travel. Use the local ferry services to visit the other Balearic Islands and make the most of your holiday time.

What is the Girl Friend Experience? The Girl Friend Experience, or GFE, is what is commonly referred to by Pattaya visitors as finding a bar girl in Pattaya and your experience is similar to that of a girlfriend.

There are some guys who go to Pattaya and all they want to do is conquer as many girls as possible. Then, there are others, who want to find that one, special lady and spend all of their time with her. They want a part-time girlfriend that will treat them special.

Some guys make the mistake of searching for that special lady going only on looks. They want to be able to walk down the street with that girl on their arm and watching the expressions of other guys as they walk by.

They are looking for a "10" and really don’t care what the cost is. They just want the eye candy on their arm and will pay for the experience.

Others prefer to look for a girl based on attitude and not on looks. Of course, they want someone who looks nice, but attitude is more important than outward appearance.

From previous experience, I would recommend looking in the beer bars as opposed to searching in the go-go bars. The girls in the beer bars may not be rated a "10' in looks, but many will be a "10" in attitude.

You will find that many of the girls are looking for a boyfriend and eventually a husband and have to do what they do to survive. They may or may not have a child back home. They also may or may not already have a boyfriend. This you will have to determine for yourself.

Just be careful that you are not sponsoring someone that is just after your hard earned money. They may be duping you and giving the money to their Thai boyfriend. You will have to decide based on the individual girl.

Your best bet to finding the girl friend experience is to just go out, chat up some of the girls, and find on that clicks with you. Let her approach you and see what happens. Treat her well, show respect, and she most likely will make your vacation all the better.

No one will be able to advise you on any particular girl. No one will know here like you do. You will have to use your own judgment and think with your big head and decide for yourself. You can explain your situation at any of the Pattaya forums, and you will get all kinds of advice, but only you will be able to make the decision.

Be smart. Go slow. Think before you do. Have fun and look for girls with positive attitudes over girls that prefer to watch themselves in a mirror while dancing.

Sometimes it is planned. Sometimes it just happens. If you do fall in love, step back and take a hard look at the situation before you send any money and agree to sponsor the girl.

Be careful; use your head while you are looking, and good luck in finding that girl friend experience.

Once you have negotiated your taxi fare from Bangkok to Pattaya and have arrived in your hotel or resort, you will need to get around the city.

You have quite a few options. First, you can walk around most areas of Pattaya as the city is fairly compact. This serves a couple of purposes; it will give you some exercise and you will see things up close and personal.

The most common way for getting around Pattaya is the Baht bus. The Thai name is song thieaw (two axles) and they are all over Pattaya. Basically, they are a pick-up truck with some bench seating in back. They can hold about 12 people comfortably but I have seen as many as 20 in one Baht bus.

The fare is 5 Baht for a Thai and 10 for a Farang (foreigner). This will get you almost anywhere in the city. Keep in mind that this is using the Baht bus in the “normal” way. By that, I mean you just stand on the sidewalk and wave one over. The truck stops and you hop in the back. When you have reached your destination, you push the buzzer and he will pull over and stop. Pay your 10 Baht and keep moving. Always have exact change.

The other than normal way to hire a Baht bus is to negotiate a ride from point A to point B. This may be to go outside of Pattaya to do some sightseeing. You will have to use your best negotiation skills to get a decent price.

Another way to get around Pattaya especially if you are going off the beaten path is to hire a motorcycle taxi. A moto taxi can be found on almost every street corner. Most rides will be in the 20 to 40 Baht range and you will be placing your life in the hands of your driver. You will wear your flimsy plastic helmet and hold on for dead life. Moto taxis will use the sidewalk, drive the wrong way on one-way streets, and do whatever it takes to get you to where you are going in the shortest distance possible. Kiss he ground when you arrive.

You can also rent motorcycles, mopeds and ATVs all over Pattaya. Beware of scams involving you returning the bike back damaged. Check the bike with a fine tooth comb before you depart. Check prices at a few different places before you decide to rent. Remember, if you are from the USA, you will be driving on the other side of the road. Road signs, traffic lights and driving laws don’t apply unless you are a foreigner and a Thai cop needs an extra 200 Baht. Always wear a helmet and keep a good set of prayers handy.

For me, walking and using the Baht bus are all that is needed. I have been going to Pattaya for over 30 years and have never used the moto taxis. I usually walk to where I am going or take a Baht bus if it is hot or a little further than I want to walk. And, of course, I am a gentleman and always get a Baht bus if I have a lady with me.

The Baht buses circle Pattaya all day and night and it is not difficult to figure out the routes. The worst that can happen is you want to go straight and the Baht bus turns. Just get off, pay your 10 baht, and get on another. Mai pen rai &ndash never mind.