Planning Your Flight - Timing is Everything

June 28th, 2009

I live in Hawaii and travel frequently to Thailand and other Asian countries. I can choose from five different airlines all departing within 2 hours of each other. The difference is &ndash 4 of them arrive at around midnight and one arrives at 4 PM. Trust me &ndash arriving in Bangkok at 4 PM as opposed to midnight is a huge difference.

Japan, United, and Northwest Airlines all depart an hour or two later and go through Narita Airport in Tokyo, Japan. Korea Airlines goes through Seoul. All arrive at about midnight and then it takes another 2 hours to get through immigration and luggage.

I am not picking on these airlines &ndash it is just that their arrival times are very inconvenient. Only one airline arrives at a decent hour &ndash and only 2 days per week.

China Airlines has two flights per week that arrive while the sun is still out and I can plan to have dinner shortly after arrival. How do they do it?

First &ndash from Hawaii &ndash these flights are on Thursday and Sunday. They used to offer it on Tuesday also &ndash but it was recently changed.

Second &ndash China Airlines flies through Tao Yuan Airport (formerly Chiang Kai Shek Airport) and only has a 1 hour and ten minute layover. This is opposed to the other airlines that have 4-6 hour waits. There is nothing worse than a layover longer than the flight time of your second leg.

A little earlier take off time and a much shorter layover equates to about an 8-hour difference in arrival time. For me &ndash it is close to perfection &ndash just enough time to have a couple cigarettes and board the next leg.

Don’t forget to check the departure and arrival time for your return flight. Again &ndash from the Thailand to Honolulu flights most of the flight depart at about 8 in the morning and arrive in Hawaii at about 6 in the morning (same day &ndash dateline adjustment). But &ndash one airline has a big difference &ndash and to me it is a huge negative. The Korean Air flight from Bangkok to Honolulu departs at 1 in the morning. For me &ndash this is a terrible departure time and the arrival time is about the same as the other 4 airlines &ndash only difference is the long layover in Seoul.

So, check and double check flight arrival and departure times &ndash both coming and going. Also, check flights on different days of the week &ndash you may be able to find a better flight.

Tips For Buying Taylor Made Boat Covers

June 27th, 2009

Purchasing a cover for your boat is a vital thing you must do to make sure your boat will be protected every day of the year. A taylor made boat cover is fail-safe way to be protected and it is well worth the money it will cost.

Heavy Duty Boat Cover Reinforcement Material

One option available from the range to compliment your Taylor Made boat cover is the all-important reinforcement material. This specific material will keep you boat cover protected from sharp corners of the boat and this also stops any possible tearing from happening. This kit comes with a very strong vinyl material and some special fabric glue which means it will be no problem or hassle to use.

Boat Cover Support System

This support structure is intended to look after your boat cover by preventing any water from building up. It is a great choice for definitive protection and it comes with 50 feet of webbing and quick release buckles, which makes the system fitted before attaching the cover as this stops any water that may have leaked through.

Special Rip Protectors

When buying a boat cover, most of them are extremely tear proof and it is entirely unlikely that a rip will happen, but if a boat has some sharp edges then it is quite reasonable to expect one. To stop such things form happening, as part of the Taylor range you could also buy rip protectors. The protectors are applied to all sections of the boat that may have any sharp edges and the grooved tubing will prevent any damage taking place to your boat cover.

All these items do not just protect your boat covers from tearing, they will also help prevent people from cutting themselves on your sharp edges.

Have You Been To Bali Yet? Want to See How It Looks Like?

June 26th, 2009

Much has been written about the favorite dream island of Bali. But how does it actually look like, and what's more important - is it the right destination for a visit or for a honeymoon? There are lots of promotional materials circulating out there done by travel companies and book publishers, but how about getting real close up views by visitors that share their own intimate perspectives for a change.

Nothing is more honest and revealing than private Bali videos all created by individual people from all over the globe that visited this island already, and made videos about that in their own language. Then uploaded it to a video web site, and now share them with the world and everyone. Free Bali videos. How convenient.

This new video site is strictly about Bali videos only. Watch what other people experienced here already, the places they visited, and what kind of people they met. What type of hotels or exclusive villas they stayed at. Now it's all online available at one single spot dedicated to the private Bali on film.

Good idea to include a search engine into that, so one can search whatever they want to see in particular. My favorites today was the search term 'Jimbaran Bali' what did show a few very relaxing videos made at that location, also 'Nusa Dua beach' did show some good results, with some of the great resorts there. Occasionally one finds some cool music in the search results that have related song titles that have "bali" in the name, as for example the title 'Bali run' of classic song by the band 'Fourplay' live in concert.

It's stunning with what some people come up with in these few minute long flicks. The 'classic Bali style' ones come with some accompanying Balinese Gamelan and flute music are very emotional touched, as they captured the Bali of the early years. What is for some travelers the 1980's and 1990's. When walking from Kuta beach to Legian beach on the main road without any car disturbing you was a reality. Unthinkable these days when everyone has a motorbike or a car.

The video website was created as a true tribute to Bali as seen by travelers, with so many interesting videos that myself spend considerable time there watching a few of these and still find new videos from some unknown 'Bali fanatics" that have great landscapes, huge waves and at times also extremely good looking people enjoying themselves having a great time.

From casual 3-days travelers that just bought a new camera, to some experienced video artists that show their skills with artistic montages zooming in on rice fields, beaches and mountain sites. Yesterday for a change I had a look at the contestants of a Miss Universe Japan video, what was basically something you would see on TV, except the girls are very beautiful here in that one. Naturally charming, like so many people visiting Bali.

Some videos are commercials done by tour and villa marketing people showing off their special villas. What's cool too, as there are so may exclusive villas now in Bali and so little time to actually go and visit each of them. So it can be really time saving and revealing to have it all presented to you while sitting comfortably and nodding with amazement or approval occasionally. Having peek previews of for example the Four Seasons in Sayan, Ubud is a pure pleasure. They really did built some marvelous villas there, all set inside the greenest jungle there possibly can exist.

And if you're into surfing, Bali waves videos are of course a must watch. From locations like Amed to the southern cliffs, it's all there. Some heavy duty pure adrenalin action videos and also some 'still impressions' that go in the opposite direction by showing only the waves coming in and going out for about 5 minutes straight. Very relaxing actually, with the original sound of the waves, makes a great screensaver for the next creative coffee break in front of the PC. And that's another interesting point to it, we cannot all live there, but we can all watch it anytime we like. Bali, truly a dream island as seen on video. Now showing on the all new Bali videos website.

Where to stay during the summer bridge festival in budapest

June 25th, 2009

In 1999 the festival was a way of celebrating the Bridge's 150th birthday and than it has become an annual festival. The old bridge, connecting Buda to Pest, is the symbol of Hungarian Capital.

In summer it is closed to the traffic and transformed into a huge stage. It hosts a series of free events and musical and theatrical performances. The visitors enjoy the pleasant views of the Danube while watching performances from jazz to classical music. There are also a number of stalls and cultural displays.

The good news? All performances are free!

The Festival takes place on every summer weekend from June to August! Enjoy it!

If you are looking for a budget accommodation Budapest, remember that the city can be overbooked quite soon. Tip: better book in advance to get the best prices and offers! However, Budapest offers plenty of accommodation options to any kind of pocket either for independent travellers, like backpackers or families. Private apartments are usually a very good choice, as youth hostels.

In terms of apartments, the city of Budapest is lately offering upper standards of comforts, with well refurbished and tastefully decorated flats or apartments. Expect to pay something like 10-30 euros per person. Some good apartments located downtown Budapest are the Anna Center apartment, Akademia Apartments, Apartment St, Michael, Gabriella and Elizabeth Apartments, Navigare Apartments, Budapestin flat, Arcadia Apartments, Aida Apartment. Youth hostels have cheaper rates per person. Some of the best located youth hostels and top rated by customers in Budapest are Mellow Mood Central Hostel, Moha Hostel, Goat Hostel, Domino Hostel, Marco Polo Hostel, Karat Hostel and guest house, Grand Hostel of Budapest, Riverside Youth hostel. 1st ( first) hostel with prices ranging from 12 euros per person per night in a shared dorm room.

Train Travel is the Perfect Family Getaway This Winter

June 24th, 2009

In an era when gas prices are at record levels and the cost of an airline ticket buys you a bag of peanuts and little else, it's difficult to imagine taking any kind of family vacation.

Yet according to the Travel Experts Survey conducted at MLT University, the nation's largest travel agent education event, more than 750 travel professionals indicate a renewed interest in family travel this year. Agents predict that this trend is likely to continue throughout the holidays and the new year.

This December, no vacation kindles family togetherness more than a scenic rail journey through glacier-capped mountains and snow-filled valleys aptly labeled the "Land of a Million Christmas Trees."

Rocky Mountaineer Vacations' two-day "Winter Rail Journey" between the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver, British Columbia, and the ski resort town of Banff, Alberta, in the Canadian Rockies promises breathtaking views, entertaining stories about the region and a holiday filled with memory-making moments.

Festivities on every winter rail vacation include music and entertainment. Children enjoy a dedicated specialty coach that features an entertainer who leads the group in song, holiday crafts, board games and other activities. For adult guests, a second specialty coach features live jazz music and a bar serving holiday beverages such as mulled wine and eggnog.

With two levels of service, Rocky Mountaineer guests can choose how the family will see the Canadian landscape. Guests opting to stay in RedLeaf Service can anticipate spacious, reclining seats with large picture windows and warm meals served at their seats. The bi-level, glass-domed GoldLeaf Service car, however, features panoramic views on the upper level and an elegant dining room on the main floor.

And if two days doesn't seem like nearly enough of an escape, there are also seven different winter packages to choose from, ranging from four to 10 days.

So whether travelers seek a one-of-a-kind experience or just a different way to travel with the family, there are adventures just waiting to be discovered in Western Canada this winter.

Overseas Driver’s License & Auto Insurance

June 23rd, 2009

Many countries do not recognize a U.S. driver's license. However, most countries accept an international driver's permit. Before departure, you can obtain one at a local office of an automobile association. The U.S. Department of State has authorized two organizations to issue international driving permits to those who hold valid U.S. driver's licenses: AAA and the American Automobile Touring Alliance. To apply for an international driving permit, you must be at least age 18, and you will need to present two passport-size photographs and your valid U.S. license. Certain countries require road permits, instead of tolls, to use on their divided highways, and they will fine those found driving without a permit.

Car rental agencies overseas usually provide auto insurance, but in some countries, the required coverage is minimal. When renting a car overseas, consider purchasing insurance coverage that is at least equivalent to that which you carry at home.

In general, your U.S. auto insurance does not cover you abroad. However, your policy may apply when you drive to countries neighboring the United States. Check with your insurer to see if your policy covers you in Canada, Mexico, or countries south of Mexico. Even if your policy is valid in one of these countries, it may not meet its minimum requirements. For instance, in most of Canada, you must carry at least $200,000 in liability insurance, and Mexico requires that, if vehicles do not carry theft, third party liability, and comprehensive insurance, the owner must post a bond that could be as high as 50% of the value of the vehicle. If you are under-insured for a country, auto insurance can usually be purchased on either side of the border.

You also need to check and see what the rules of the road are for the country you are visiting. You may find that you will be driving on the opposite side of the road from what you are used to. Remember, you will be in a foreign country and subject to their rules &ndash so study before you go. Be safe and watch out for the other guy.

Turkey Holidays - Marmaris

June 22nd, 2009

There are many places on Earth that you can spend your time and money, and all of them are vying for your attention. However, there is one city that should be on the top of the list of places to visit before you die, and that city is Marmaris.

Marmaris is a small city in the southwest corner of Turkey, sitting on the Mediterranean Sea. It has an amazing history that dates back 8,000 years, as well as beauty that will leave you breathless.

When you are choosing where to holiday, you need to give this city a thought.

One reason, is the history.

This region of Turkey has seen some great men go through it in history, including one known as Alexander the Great, a man who Julius Caesar idolized growing up. As well, it has been a major vantage point for the Ottoman Empire from the 16th to 20th centuries.

If you are a history buff, then you can’t go wrong with visiting a place that has 80 centuries of history to look at.

One of the best places to see during your holiday in Marmaris is the castle. This castle has stood, been built and rebuilt, over the course of thousands of years and has served as a garrison for Alexander’s armies, as well as Knights of St. John during their fight against the Ottoman Empire.

This city is a great place to spend your holiday if you are a history buff. The sheer volume of history here means that you are going to need to keep coming back each year, just so you can see it all.

Think about it, how do you cram 8,000 years of history in a week-long vacation? You can’t, so if you really want to see everything this city has to offer in terms of history, then you are going to need to keep coming back on a regular basis to see the mosques, castles, historical structures and museums, just to understand how vast and important the role this place played in human history.

A wonderful place for a historical holiday.

Good food for less money in Vegas

June 21st, 2009

It is well known that a holiday in Vegas is all about food, drink and gambling all day and all night. Excitement in the fast lane in the casino or on the roller coaster but not necessarily at the dinner tables.

No longer is the casinos considered the only entertainment and income of Las Vegas. Slowly this bright city is changing its image to proof to its people and visitors that the commitment is there to offer world-class entertainment and excitement. It goes without saying that some of the dining in Las Vegas is out of this world especially in the casino areas but so unfortunately is the price. The tables are being filled with people wanting to experience a wonderful time and somehow by good reviews and hard work the restaurants reap success.

This city of bright lights and empty promises is quickly becoming a city that offers world-class entertainment and excitement to its residents and its visitors. Las Vegas has some of the best dining on the planet. Many of the wonderful dining experiences are associated with the casinos of the area but they would not be as successful as they are if there was not a reason to keep the tables full. Diners don't tend to dine if the food isn't good and a for a restaurant a bad review will travel around the world three times before ten good reviews will make it once. This means that the world-class fine dining restaurants really must earn their stripes in order to bring in the business required in order to stay in business.

One of the places where a person or a family can eat less expensively is at Arizona Charlie's Boulder Sourdough Cafe. Highly recommended are the 14-ounce Porterhouse steak for $7.99 which includes soup or salad, potato or rice, veggies and rolls. Spaghetti and meatballs are $6.49 and Chicken Penn Primavera or fried chicken is $6.99.

Good meals and easy on the pocket.

Be on the look out for coupons around town offering two for the price of one meal ticket

There are also places offering discount on entrance purchases. Off course once off the saving will not be that great but, over several days, for a couple of people, you can even see an extra show or gamble some on your food budget.

It is true that the less expensive food is not served as elegantly as its pricy encounters but the quality is much the same even sometimes, in my opinion, more superior. A lot of the cheaper places to eat actually have for superior flavor to many of the more expensive dining experiences and it's just nice to get away from buffet food once in a while.

European Vacation-Tips to Have the Most Fun

June 20th, 2009

I lived in Germany for five years, many moons ago, and as a result had the opportunity to travel around Europe quite a bit, visit lots of places, learn a little of three languages and have lots of fond memories. But since those golden days of yore I have been back twice with my fianc

Sustainable tourism in Hanoi, Vietnam

June 19th, 2009

Founded in 1010, in 1954 it became the official capital of independent Vietnam. A peaceful city of lakes with leafy boulevards, Hanoi lies at the heart of the northern Red River Delta and somehow reflects an European feel. Especially the streets of the Old Quarter preserve age-old customs, where trade takes one back half a century, and temples, pagodas and monuments reflect the historic character of Vietnam. In this area there are many hotels which have been recently refurbished with a special care to the traditional architecture and design. Hanoi Hotels are surprisingly modest but preserve a unique charming environment.

Some of them are set in historical buildings: the Ritz Hotel for example or Joy Hotel Return Hotel, the Pearls hotel, the Old street Hotel, Y Van Riverside Hotel, Hanoi Plaza hotel and Hanoi Queen Plaza. They are all front serene Hoan Kiem lake and - quite surprisingly for the standard they provide-, the prices are extremely cheap. Spending a night in any of these Vietnamese hotels will cost you from around 3,5 euros per person up to 15 euros per person. Although Hanoi, and Vietnam in general, have been absorbing a tourist boom since1993, which of course has seen an infiltration of western-style food and fashions into the once inaccessible city, Hanoi has retained its appealing sense of the old world.

This means that the city provides many services for tourists as nice boutique hotels, internet caf