Best place for family vacation. Kids would love it cause there are many playground for them to play with. Normally Theme/Water Park would have a cover charge at the entrance where you pay one time off for all the games and rides in the park.
First, the accomodation is best if you could rent outside the park or just do a one full day trip and do not spend the nite there. Normally the theme park will provide coupons for all the games and rides if you rent the room at the theme park's hotel. However, that would cost you more especially the hotels rate at the park are normally high if you compared it with the cover charge which is also inclusive of the free access to all the games and rides.
Food is best to bring it over from home if it is a day trip. This is because normally the food sold in the park is really expensive. Alternatively, you may go out of the park for a while and make sure you still have the tag intact.
Have fun..
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
10 Tips for Cost Effective Vacation
If your summer “to do” list didn’t include a vacation because of budget constraints, it’s not too late. Here are ten tips to help you say “Bon Voyage,” without breaking the bank.
Before you go, decide how much you have to spend on a vacation and stick to it. Set a daily budget for things like lodging and meals. This makes it easier to keep track of what you’ve spent, and how much extra you have left over for side trips and souvenirs.
You can save a lot of money by being flexible on your travel dates. Hotels and resorts often offer last-minute deals to fill empty rooms – this is one time when procrastination can pay off. Flying on off-peak days, like Tuesdays and Thursdays, often yields lower fares.
Money spent eating out can really add up. To cut costs, stay in hotels that have refrigerators and microwaves in the room and offer free continental breakfasts. Always bring along a cooler so you can stop for picnics on travel days.
When making hotel reservations, always ask the service agent if they are running any specials. Also, be sure to mention any memberships you may have – a Sam’s Club or AAA membership may get you a better rate. Let the agent know that you’re traveling with children. Many hotel chains allow children to stay free.
If your family is large enough that two rooms are needed, ask if the hotel has a family suite available. These have more bed space than a single room at less than the cost of two rooms. Another option is to consider renting a weekly apartment or condo for the length of your stay.
Bring your own travel crib for baby. Hotels often charge extra to put a crib in your room, and you may arrive to find that all available cribs are already in use. If you are traveling with one older preschooler, consider getting a room with one king-size bed (instead of two beds) and packing a small pop-up tent and sleeping bag for your child. Best case: you and your spouse can comfortably sleep all night. Worst case: you’ll have to share some of your king-size space with a small visitor.
When traveling, make lunch your big meal out. Restaurants usually offer the same food as on the dinner menu, but at lower prices. If you’re traveling with two preschoolers who are light eaters, just order one kids’ meal and have them split it. Also, look for restaurants that offer a free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult entrée.
Fountain drinks and desserts are the biggest unnecessary expenses when eating out. Carry along a good supply of special drinks and small sweets to dole out as treats during the day. At the restaurant, have everyone drink water and pass on dessert. (If the kids really complain, squeeze lemon into the water, add a little sweetener, and you have instant lemonade.)
To save on laundry, pack gallon-size zip-lock bags along with a small plastic bottle filled with detergent. When you have some small things that need washing, put them in the bag with a few drops of detergent and some water. You provide the agitation action by shaking the bag. Rinse in the sink and hang to dry. Don’t forget to bring a stain stick to rub over spills on clothing if you can’t wash right away.
Audio books are a great and inexpensive way to pass the time when traveling by car. Visit your local library before you go and stock up on a selection of stories. Younger preschoolers just like to listen, while pre-readers enjoy flipping through the book as the story is read aloud.
Before you go, decide how much you have to spend on a vacation and stick to it. Set a daily budget for things like lodging and meals. This makes it easier to keep track of what you’ve spent, and how much extra you have left over for side trips and souvenirs.
You can save a lot of money by being flexible on your travel dates. Hotels and resorts often offer last-minute deals to fill empty rooms – this is one time when procrastination can pay off. Flying on off-peak days, like Tuesdays and Thursdays, often yields lower fares.
Money spent eating out can really add up. To cut costs, stay in hotels that have refrigerators and microwaves in the room and offer free continental breakfasts. Always bring along a cooler so you can stop for picnics on travel days.
When making hotel reservations, always ask the service agent if they are running any specials. Also, be sure to mention any memberships you may have – a Sam’s Club or AAA membership may get you a better rate. Let the agent know that you’re traveling with children. Many hotel chains allow children to stay free.
If your family is large enough that two rooms are needed, ask if the hotel has a family suite available. These have more bed space than a single room at less than the cost of two rooms. Another option is to consider renting a weekly apartment or condo for the length of your stay.
Bring your own travel crib for baby. Hotels often charge extra to put a crib in your room, and you may arrive to find that all available cribs are already in use. If you are traveling with one older preschooler, consider getting a room with one king-size bed (instead of two beds) and packing a small pop-up tent and sleeping bag for your child. Best case: you and your spouse can comfortably sleep all night. Worst case: you’ll have to share some of your king-size space with a small visitor.
When traveling, make lunch your big meal out. Restaurants usually offer the same food as on the dinner menu, but at lower prices. If you’re traveling with two preschoolers who are light eaters, just order one kids’ meal and have them split it. Also, look for restaurants that offer a free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult entrée.
Fountain drinks and desserts are the biggest unnecessary expenses when eating out. Carry along a good supply of special drinks and small sweets to dole out as treats during the day. At the restaurant, have everyone drink water and pass on dessert. (If the kids really complain, squeeze lemon into the water, add a little sweetener, and you have instant lemonade.)
To save on laundry, pack gallon-size zip-lock bags along with a small plastic bottle filled with detergent. When you have some small things that need washing, put them in the bag with a few drops of detergent and some water. You provide the agitation action by shaking the bag. Rinse in the sink and hang to dry. Don’t forget to bring a stain stick to rub over spills on clothing if you can’t wash right away.
Audio books are a great and inexpensive way to pass the time when traveling by car. Visit your local library before you go and stock up on a selection of stories. Younger preschoolers just like to listen, while pre-readers enjoy flipping through the book as the story is read aloud.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Best Medium to use for Monetary Exchange
Never assume you can wthdraw money from the ATM machine in foreign countries even if it Cirrus, VISA or PLUS supported ATM banking. It happened to my friend when he travel to Indonesia and several countries where the system just not coorporating enough to let you to withdraw money. I believe this is due to some currency restriction in certain countries.
The easiest method is to pay for everything on your credit card, but if you're traveling to another country there will be certain things that you cannot use the card for like bus and taxi fares and dining outside resorts etc.
Take some travelers cheques. They are safe and easy to cash, and you can always cash them in when you get home if you don't use them. You will probably need some foreign cash before you arrive at your destination. You can change money at the airport, but generally the exchange rate is not good, so shop around before you leave. While you're overseas, change your travelers cheques at banks rather than resorts for a better rate. You will find that many hotels will restrict the amount (usually $100) of travellers cheques you can cash in a day. If you can't get to a bank this restriction may not allow you to use cash for everything so its always a good idea to use both credit cards and cash for purchases.
Check if you need to pay a departure tax when leaving your destination. You usually can only pay in local currency, so put some cash away.
Try to prepay as much as possible (meals, transfers etc) so you know what you're likely to spend.
The easiest method is to pay for everything on your credit card, but if you're traveling to another country there will be certain things that you cannot use the card for like bus and taxi fares and dining outside resorts etc.
Take some travelers cheques. They are safe and easy to cash, and you can always cash them in when you get home if you don't use them. You will probably need some foreign cash before you arrive at your destination. You can change money at the airport, but generally the exchange rate is not good, so shop around before you leave. While you're overseas, change your travelers cheques at banks rather than resorts for a better rate. You will find that many hotels will restrict the amount (usually $100) of travellers cheques you can cash in a day. If you can't get to a bank this restriction may not allow you to use cash for everything so its always a good idea to use both credit cards and cash for purchases.
Check if you need to pay a departure tax when leaving your destination. You usually can only pay in local currency, so put some cash away.
Try to prepay as much as possible (meals, transfers etc) so you know what you're likely to spend.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Some Good Lesson Learn from Travelling
You will discover more when you travel more. It is something you will learn while doing it. But, there are some budget travel tips you need to consider before you go. Most of them seem obvious, but we learned how important they are. Never think that you can skip a rule, or you will be punished for it!!
Learn the exchange rates
Arriving in new countries is always a bit of a struggle. A new currency to learn, and you need to learn it fast, since you want to exchange money right away. The people at the borders, airports, or harbors exchanging money all benefit from ignorant travelers. If one is very eager on a deal, it most certainly is a bad deal for you. We have seen many happy travelers, thinking they made a good deal, but finding out later that it wasn’t. So learn the exchange rate upfront. You can follow all budget travel tips, but if you miss this one, you're money will quickly be gone.
Learn the going rates
Once you know the exchange rate, you also know what people are charging you. But, be sure not to compare them too much with the prices from the country you came from. Even between neighboring countries, the differences can be huge. As an example, pricing in Indonesia is very different from pricing in its neighbor Malaysia, let alone Singapore.
Negotiate up front
So, before you buy anything, be sure to negotiate. The only guarantee that you pay a good price is when the vendor isn’t too happy with the deal. When you feel sorry for the vendor, realize that the price you negotiate probably still is higher than what locals would pay. And the more disappointed the vendor is, the happier other locals are that you didn’t screw up the market prices.
We would like to put some extra emphasis on negotiating upfront. We have learned this golden rule the hard way. Longing for a hot cup of tea in a cold Beijing, we were very glad to get offered one. But, only asked for the costs after sipping from it. Wrong!! There was no possibility of negotiating anymore, since we already “bought” the tea. We ended up paying the equivalent of a three course meal for a simple cup of tea…
Local tours
After settling in you will plan on visiting the attractions of the region. Obviously, you can visit them all by yourself. But most of the hotels will also offer you tours to different sights. Before you turn those offers down, consider what they are offering. Compare the offer with what it would cost you going there by yourself. Very often (especially with the offerings from backpacker hostels) the deals are very good. Add that to the time and trouble you will save by not having to find it out by yourself, and then make your decision.
There is always the possibility not to visit the expensive attractions in the region. But, consider that you will probably not come here again. And if you do, entrance fees will not have decreased. So, Maybe this one doesn't belong among the budget travel tips, but do not save money by not doing things you would actually like to do. And doing them on a local tour often is great fun.
Share!!
Many local tours have originated from the idea of sharing transport to the local attractions. So if there are no organized tours, you can still decide to share the transport you arrange yourself. But in fact, you can share anything, while traveling. In many hostels, people are cooking their own food. That may be a hassle, but the hassle reduces when you share your meal, and get a meal in return. And, when the only lodging available is a double room, share one with someone else. And there are probably other things you can share too. Before you do, however, make sure you can trust the person you are sharing with.
Take your time
The last tip we will give you is to take your time. Traveling fast is much more expensive than taking it slow. Of course, you will visit less destinations while traveling slow, but you will see much more from the destinations you do visit. You will spend less on transportation, you will learn where to get the best value for money, and you will find out about the off the beaten track attractions.
Learn the exchange rates
Arriving in new countries is always a bit of a struggle. A new currency to learn, and you need to learn it fast, since you want to exchange money right away. The people at the borders, airports, or harbors exchanging money all benefit from ignorant travelers. If one is very eager on a deal, it most certainly is a bad deal for you. We have seen many happy travelers, thinking they made a good deal, but finding out later that it wasn’t. So learn the exchange rate upfront. You can follow all budget travel tips, but if you miss this one, you're money will quickly be gone.
Learn the going rates
Once you know the exchange rate, you also know what people are charging you. But, be sure not to compare them too much with the prices from the country you came from. Even between neighboring countries, the differences can be huge. As an example, pricing in Indonesia is very different from pricing in its neighbor Malaysia, let alone Singapore.
Negotiate up front
So, before you buy anything, be sure to negotiate. The only guarantee that you pay a good price is when the vendor isn’t too happy with the deal. When you feel sorry for the vendor, realize that the price you negotiate probably still is higher than what locals would pay. And the more disappointed the vendor is, the happier other locals are that you didn’t screw up the market prices.
We would like to put some extra emphasis on negotiating upfront. We have learned this golden rule the hard way. Longing for a hot cup of tea in a cold Beijing, we were very glad to get offered one. But, only asked for the costs after sipping from it. Wrong!! There was no possibility of negotiating anymore, since we already “bought” the tea. We ended up paying the equivalent of a three course meal for a simple cup of tea…
Local tours
After settling in you will plan on visiting the attractions of the region. Obviously, you can visit them all by yourself. But most of the hotels will also offer you tours to different sights. Before you turn those offers down, consider what they are offering. Compare the offer with what it would cost you going there by yourself. Very often (especially with the offerings from backpacker hostels) the deals are very good. Add that to the time and trouble you will save by not having to find it out by yourself, and then make your decision.
There is always the possibility not to visit the expensive attractions in the region. But, consider that you will probably not come here again. And if you do, entrance fees will not have decreased. So, Maybe this one doesn't belong among the budget travel tips, but do not save money by not doing things you would actually like to do. And doing them on a local tour often is great fun.
Share!!
Many local tours have originated from the idea of sharing transport to the local attractions. So if there are no organized tours, you can still decide to share the transport you arrange yourself. But in fact, you can share anything, while traveling. In many hostels, people are cooking their own food. That may be a hassle, but the hassle reduces when you share your meal, and get a meal in return. And, when the only lodging available is a double room, share one with someone else. And there are probably other things you can share too. Before you do, however, make sure you can trust the person you are sharing with.
Take your time
The last tip we will give you is to take your time. Traveling fast is much more expensive than taking it slow. Of course, you will visit less destinations while traveling slow, but you will see much more from the destinations you do visit. You will spend less on transportation, you will learn where to get the best value for money, and you will find out about the off the beaten track attractions.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Packing Tips
There are two kinds of travelers in the world: those who packed light and those who wish they had. To include everything needed in as little space as possible, follow these helpful guidelines compiled by the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA). Some of the most travel-wise people in the world, ASTA members know the techniques of efficient packing for all types of travel.
MAKE A PLAN AND STICK TO IT!
Like an architect planning a building, so must you plan the contents of your suitcase by creating a list. A packing list eliminates the panic of last-second packing, serves as a handy guide for repacking at the end of the trip, and can be beneficial in the unfortunate event of lost or stolen luggage.
When planning your wardrobe, consider the events you will participate in both day and night and write down a possible outfit for each activity. Crosscheck this list to determine if one piece can cover multiple occasions. Pick clothes that coordinate well together, based around complimentary colors.
Check the weather forecast of the destination and plan accordingly. Also, be sure to know the local traditions, where a t-shirt for dinner could be a serious blunder, or bare shoulders may bar your entrance into such places as St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. For almost all outdoor activities, take pieces that can be layered.
Forget dress clothes for every occasion. The world at large has relaxed its dress code, showing almost universal leniency to tourists. Dark colors – a black dress or blue jacket – will get you through most dinners and plays.
TO PACK OR NOT TO PACK? THAT IS THE QUESTION!
Now that the wardrobe is thoroughly planned, stick with it. When packing, lay out the items you intend to take and reexamine your list. If possible, weed out single-use items and extras.
Set aside the pieces you intend to bring and ensure that they are clean and ready to be packed. Contact your travel agent about the hotel’s in-room amenities – such as a hair dryer, an iron and board, soap, shampoo etc. – so you’ll know what to leave behind.
Jewelry – don’t take what you don’t want to lose, and leave behind the flashy pieces that could attract thieves. Keep makeup to a minimum to save space, and leave the perfume behind when scented lotions will work just as well.
When it comes to the question of toiletries, travel kits are always the answer. Having a travel kit perpetually stocked in a waterproof case will save in packing time before the trip and aggravation after arrival. Most personal toiletry items come in inexpensive travel sizes, so purchase these whenever you see them so as not to arrive with a half-empty bottle of your favorite hair gel. And don’t fill bottles up to the very top, for pressure inside the plane may force the contents to expand and overflow.
With each item you intend to bring, visualize how to make it smaller, like photocopying certain pages and maps from the guidebook instead of bringing the entire book. Streamline your daily habits. Bring only one bottle of all-purpose lotion instead of multiple lotions for hands, face and body. Choose a regular toothbrush or razor over electric models.
Film and other accessories can be purchased globally and often easily, so save packing room by leaving them behind. Create an in-trip adventure and discover more about the area by shopping for a local brand of deodorant or lotion.
When it comes to incidentals, a few items will go a long way. Important items to bring include a first-aid kit, a tin of aspirin, sunscreen and a small bottle of Woolite for emergency, in-room laundering if needed. Also, a Swiss army knife will amaze you with its handiness, whether peeling fruit or uncorking a wine bottle. Remember – it’s not allowed on the plane, so pack it in your checked luggage.
Once your travel kit is complete, be sure to pack it in your carry-on bag to avoid a mess in your checked luggage and have on hand during the flight.
THE ART OF PACKING
Now you know what to bring, so let the packing begin. Iron everything before placing it in the suitcase. If it goes in crisp and clean, odds are more in its favor of coming out the same. Button all buttons and zip all zippers.
Learn to fold. Practice folding like they do in clothing stores – they use that method for a reason. The better the fold, the fewer the creases. All garments can be folded in many different ways – T-shirts, jeans, skirts and sports coats can be rolled up and strategically positioned (i.e. stuffed) in a duffel bag or travel pack.
The interlocking method of folding clothes is ideal for suitcases. Overlap two pieces of clothing flat and then fold them into each other so that each piece cushions the other to aid in defying wrinkles. Placing a piece of tissue paper between each layer of clothing will also help prevent wrinkling.
If using the fold and stack method, try to think chronologically, placing the items to be worn first on the top. This will prevent rooting around the suitcase for a specific item while disrupting the rest.
Always pack tightly. Packing loosely wastes precious space and causes clothes to wrinkle. Eliminate wasted space, such as the insides of shoes, which are perfect for socks or underwear.
Always carry travel documents, medication, jewelry, traveler's checks, keys and other valuables in your carry-on luggage. Items such as these should never be packed in checked luggage.
Label each piece of luggage, both inside and out, with your name and telephone number, but not your home address. If an address is needed, then put your office’s. And remove old claim checks to avoid confusion.
Unpack as completely as possible as soon as you get to the hotel to prevent further wrinkles. When repacking, remember that balled-up, dirty laundry takes more space than carefully folded clothes, so repack your used clothing identically to your original packing method.
ZIPPING UP
The main message: be in control of your luggage and not at its mercy. With a little TravelSense, a few packing guidelines and some helpful tips, traveling light will be an easy plan to follow.
MAKE A PLAN AND STICK TO IT!
Like an architect planning a building, so must you plan the contents of your suitcase by creating a list. A packing list eliminates the panic of last-second packing, serves as a handy guide for repacking at the end of the trip, and can be beneficial in the unfortunate event of lost or stolen luggage.
When planning your wardrobe, consider the events you will participate in both day and night and write down a possible outfit for each activity. Crosscheck this list to determine if one piece can cover multiple occasions. Pick clothes that coordinate well together, based around complimentary colors.
Check the weather forecast of the destination and plan accordingly. Also, be sure to know the local traditions, where a t-shirt for dinner could be a serious blunder, or bare shoulders may bar your entrance into such places as St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. For almost all outdoor activities, take pieces that can be layered.
Forget dress clothes for every occasion. The world at large has relaxed its dress code, showing almost universal leniency to tourists. Dark colors – a black dress or blue jacket – will get you through most dinners and plays.
TO PACK OR NOT TO PACK? THAT IS THE QUESTION!
Now that the wardrobe is thoroughly planned, stick with it. When packing, lay out the items you intend to take and reexamine your list. If possible, weed out single-use items and extras.
Set aside the pieces you intend to bring and ensure that they are clean and ready to be packed. Contact your travel agent about the hotel’s in-room amenities – such as a hair dryer, an iron and board, soap, shampoo etc. – so you’ll know what to leave behind.
Jewelry – don’t take what you don’t want to lose, and leave behind the flashy pieces that could attract thieves. Keep makeup to a minimum to save space, and leave the perfume behind when scented lotions will work just as well.
When it comes to the question of toiletries, travel kits are always the answer. Having a travel kit perpetually stocked in a waterproof case will save in packing time before the trip and aggravation after arrival. Most personal toiletry items come in inexpensive travel sizes, so purchase these whenever you see them so as not to arrive with a half-empty bottle of your favorite hair gel. And don’t fill bottles up to the very top, for pressure inside the plane may force the contents to expand and overflow.
With each item you intend to bring, visualize how to make it smaller, like photocopying certain pages and maps from the guidebook instead of bringing the entire book. Streamline your daily habits. Bring only one bottle of all-purpose lotion instead of multiple lotions for hands, face and body. Choose a regular toothbrush or razor over electric models.
Film and other accessories can be purchased globally and often easily, so save packing room by leaving them behind. Create an in-trip adventure and discover more about the area by shopping for a local brand of deodorant or lotion.
When it comes to incidentals, a few items will go a long way. Important items to bring include a first-aid kit, a tin of aspirin, sunscreen and a small bottle of Woolite for emergency, in-room laundering if needed. Also, a Swiss army knife will amaze you with its handiness, whether peeling fruit or uncorking a wine bottle. Remember – it’s not allowed on the plane, so pack it in your checked luggage.
Once your travel kit is complete, be sure to pack it in your carry-on bag to avoid a mess in your checked luggage and have on hand during the flight.
THE ART OF PACKING
Now you know what to bring, so let the packing begin. Iron everything before placing it in the suitcase. If it goes in crisp and clean, odds are more in its favor of coming out the same. Button all buttons and zip all zippers.
Learn to fold. Practice folding like they do in clothing stores – they use that method for a reason. The better the fold, the fewer the creases. All garments can be folded in many different ways – T-shirts, jeans, skirts and sports coats can be rolled up and strategically positioned (i.e. stuffed) in a duffel bag or travel pack.
The interlocking method of folding clothes is ideal for suitcases. Overlap two pieces of clothing flat and then fold them into each other so that each piece cushions the other to aid in defying wrinkles. Placing a piece of tissue paper between each layer of clothing will also help prevent wrinkling.
If using the fold and stack method, try to think chronologically, placing the items to be worn first on the top. This will prevent rooting around the suitcase for a specific item while disrupting the rest.
Always pack tightly. Packing loosely wastes precious space and causes clothes to wrinkle. Eliminate wasted space, such as the insides of shoes, which are perfect for socks or underwear.
Always carry travel documents, medication, jewelry, traveler's checks, keys and other valuables in your carry-on luggage. Items such as these should never be packed in checked luggage.
Label each piece of luggage, both inside and out, with your name and telephone number, but not your home address. If an address is needed, then put your office’s. And remove old claim checks to avoid confusion.
Unpack as completely as possible as soon as you get to the hotel to prevent further wrinkles. When repacking, remember that balled-up, dirty laundry takes more space than carefully folded clothes, so repack your used clothing identically to your original packing method.
ZIPPING UP
The main message: be in control of your luggage and not at its mercy. With a little TravelSense, a few packing guidelines and some helpful tips, traveling light will be an easy plan to follow.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Family Travel Tips
Ask these questions when booking a room:
Do kids stay free? Is breakfast free?
Does the hotel offer a discount for adjoining rooms?
Does the hotel have cribs and roll-away beds? Do they charge to rent them?
Are there any supervised programs for kids? How much do they cost? Do you have to make a reservation?
Is there in-room babysitting? How much per hour? What are the qualifications of the sitter? How far in advance do you need to make reservations?
Do the hotel restaurant and room service have a kids' menu?
Does the hotel offer several family-oriented cable stations, like Disney, Nickelodeon, AMC, Discovery and Lifetime? Does the TV have a VCR, and is there a video library with kids' videos?
Are there Super Nintendos in the room?
Can the balcony or patio door be locked?
Does the pool have any special features (like a slide or waterfalls)?
Does the hotel offer a children's program? Is it included in the room rate?
Travelling with Teenagers
When traveling to several locations, try to stay at least four or five days in one place, so your teens have a chance to meet other kids, adjust to the area and find their way around the vicinity. Then they get a feeling of orientation and independence. Have them memorize the name of your hotel (or the address of your lodging) and give them a hotel business card to keep in their pocket. City visits with heavy cultural emphasis can be boring for teens. London is an exception, as there are some wonderfully hip places that both parents and teens will find interesting. Any vacation spot where there aren't other teens will be unpopular. (Forget the visit to Grandma and Grandpa's retirement spot in Florida, even if you think the beach is spectacular.) Many parents find that by the time their kids become teens they are burned out from long road trips and will refuse to do extensive car trips anymore. If your vacation plans include long drives, consider buying or borrowing a small TV and VCR that will plug into your vehicle's cigarette lighter.
Dining at five-star restaurants is a waste of time and money with teens (unless they want to become a chef or have a highly developed palate). And if you are required to wear a tie, they won't like it (you may not either). Consider taking them to one fine restaurant per trip as part of their culinary education. Have each teen bring a personal tape or CD player with headphones and extra batteries. Agree before departure on where, when and how often they may plug in. Bring a deck of cards, backgammon set or other games you can all enjoy that gives you a relaxed evening activity together.
If you are traveling abroad with a teenage girl, this is a good time to talk about the many different come-ons of sexual predators. If you are in a safe place and you trust your teens' common sense, give them the freedom to explore. Remind them of the buddy system: No one should go anywhere -- outhouse, cafe, beach -- without a buddy, whether it is a sibling, parent or friend. Be sure they know and agree to their curfew. Remind them that when traveling, they are ambassadors in the world and should be extra respectful, helpful and polite to everyone they encounter (including their parents!). If your teens take off on their own, remind them it is important to be cognizant of the hour of sunset. All over the world, towns and neighborhoods that are filled with activity during the day can empty out once darkness descends.
Neighborhoods that have been active and safe during daylight hours are not necessarily so after dark. Roll up your sleeves and share a volunteer vacation with your teenager. Dozens of non-profit groups offer fascinating trips for paying volunteers in the United States and abroad. They run the gamut of scientific, environmental, educational and social-service expeditions. Because group leaders are on hand to teach skills and monitor progress, volunteer vacations offer an opportunity for parent and teen to participate as equal learners on a team.
Consider letting your teens invite a friend to join you on short vacations, such as car or camping trips. And perhaps the best bit of advice:Remember what you were like as a teenager and how you wanted to spend your time on vacation!
Do kids stay free? Is breakfast free?
Does the hotel offer a discount for adjoining rooms?
Does the hotel have cribs and roll-away beds? Do they charge to rent them?
Are there any supervised programs for kids? How much do they cost? Do you have to make a reservation?
Is there in-room babysitting? How much per hour? What are the qualifications of the sitter? How far in advance do you need to make reservations?
Do the hotel restaurant and room service have a kids' menu?
Does the hotel offer several family-oriented cable stations, like Disney, Nickelodeon, AMC, Discovery and Lifetime? Does the TV have a VCR, and is there a video library with kids' videos?
Are there Super Nintendos in the room?
Can the balcony or patio door be locked?
Does the pool have any special features (like a slide or waterfalls)?
Does the hotel offer a children's program? Is it included in the room rate?
Travelling with Teenagers
When traveling to several locations, try to stay at least four or five days in one place, so your teens have a chance to meet other kids, adjust to the area and find their way around the vicinity. Then they get a feeling of orientation and independence. Have them memorize the name of your hotel (or the address of your lodging) and give them a hotel business card to keep in their pocket. City visits with heavy cultural emphasis can be boring for teens. London is an exception, as there are some wonderfully hip places that both parents and teens will find interesting. Any vacation spot where there aren't other teens will be unpopular. (Forget the visit to Grandma and Grandpa's retirement spot in Florida, even if you think the beach is spectacular.) Many parents find that by the time their kids become teens they are burned out from long road trips and will refuse to do extensive car trips anymore. If your vacation plans include long drives, consider buying or borrowing a small TV and VCR that will plug into your vehicle's cigarette lighter.
Dining at five-star restaurants is a waste of time and money with teens (unless they want to become a chef or have a highly developed palate). And if you are required to wear a tie, they won't like it (you may not either). Consider taking them to one fine restaurant per trip as part of their culinary education. Have each teen bring a personal tape or CD player with headphones and extra batteries. Agree before departure on where, when and how often they may plug in. Bring a deck of cards, backgammon set or other games you can all enjoy that gives you a relaxed evening activity together.
If you are traveling abroad with a teenage girl, this is a good time to talk about the many different come-ons of sexual predators. If you are in a safe place and you trust your teens' common sense, give them the freedom to explore. Remind them of the buddy system: No one should go anywhere -- outhouse, cafe, beach -- without a buddy, whether it is a sibling, parent or friend. Be sure they know and agree to their curfew. Remind them that when traveling, they are ambassadors in the world and should be extra respectful, helpful and polite to everyone they encounter (including their parents!). If your teens take off on their own, remind them it is important to be cognizant of the hour of sunset. All over the world, towns and neighborhoods that are filled with activity during the day can empty out once darkness descends.
Neighborhoods that have been active and safe during daylight hours are not necessarily so after dark. Roll up your sleeves and share a volunteer vacation with your teenager. Dozens of non-profit groups offer fascinating trips for paying volunteers in the United States and abroad. They run the gamut of scientific, environmental, educational and social-service expeditions. Because group leaders are on hand to teach skills and monitor progress, volunteer vacations offer an opportunity for parent and teen to participate as equal learners on a team.
Consider letting your teens invite a friend to join you on short vacations, such as car or camping trips. And perhaps the best bit of advice:Remember what you were like as a teenager and how you wanted to spend your time on vacation!
Sunday, October 7, 2007
How to get a low motel rate
People of all ages travel for business and pleasure. When traveling to another city or to enjoy a weekend away from home, many folks stay at a motel. Prices can vary widely, from the widely promoted $39.95 to well over a hundred dollars.
If you're traveling on a budget, you need to pay the lowest cost for the best possible room. A variety of discounts may help. Here are a few tips:
1. Join the American Automobile Association (AAA). For a fee of about $60 per individual, you can get a year-long membership that offers numerous advantages, including towing for stranded vehicles and discount lodging rates. Weigh the pro's and cons of buying a membership, especially if you are not driving a new car. Staying in a motel for five nights over the course of a year could pay your membership, and you'll enjoy other advantages as well.
2. Find out about AARP discounts. The American Association of Retired Persons offers a 10% to 15% discount on many services, such as hotels and motels. You can check out their Web site to learn more about a variety of benefits that are available to those over fifty years of age.
3. Convention discounts. If you will be in town to participate in a conference or convention, there may be a block of rooms available at a reduced rate. Ask the desk clerk if the sponsoring organization has set aside some rooms. If not, inquire whether a general convention rate is available.
4. Presenter's rate. People who are invited as speakers or presenters at a conference sometimes get half their lodging paid by the host organization. If you are invited to speak to a group, ask whether a reduced or fully paid motel room is one of the benefits.
5. Military and government discounts. Those who are members of the armed forces or who work for the government get many discounts to a wide range of services, including hotels and motels. Ask in advance if a reduced rate is available for you, and what type of identification will be needed to get the lower rate.
6. Emergency travel rate. If you have to travel across the country unexpectedly due to a family member's illness or death, you may be able to get a room discount if you must stay at a motel or hotel. Call local inns to inquire about this option before booking a room, as some places offer this type of discount while others do not.
7. Unbooked rooms. In making your travel plans on the phone with a motel reservations clerk, it doesn't hurt to ask if there is an available "low-rate" room. These are motel rooms that remain unbooked close to the check-in time. Rather than not renting them, some managers offer a discount to last-minute arrivals, although some discounts of this type may be offered in advance.
Nothing ventured, nothing gained. So goes the old saying. The next time you must make travel plans that involve a motel stay, ask in advance about any or all of the above discounts. You might just save a few dollars that can be spent on entertainment!
If you're traveling on a budget, you need to pay the lowest cost for the best possible room. A variety of discounts may help. Here are a few tips:
1. Join the American Automobile Association (AAA). For a fee of about $60 per individual, you can get a year-long membership that offers numerous advantages, including towing for stranded vehicles and discount lodging rates. Weigh the pro's and cons of buying a membership, especially if you are not driving a new car. Staying in a motel for five nights over the course of a year could pay your membership, and you'll enjoy other advantages as well.
2. Find out about AARP discounts. The American Association of Retired Persons offers a 10% to 15% discount on many services, such as hotels and motels. You can check out their Web site to learn more about a variety of benefits that are available to those over fifty years of age.
3. Convention discounts. If you will be in town to participate in a conference or convention, there may be a block of rooms available at a reduced rate. Ask the desk clerk if the sponsoring organization has set aside some rooms. If not, inquire whether a general convention rate is available.
4. Presenter's rate. People who are invited as speakers or presenters at a conference sometimes get half their lodging paid by the host organization. If you are invited to speak to a group, ask whether a reduced or fully paid motel room is one of the benefits.
5. Military and government discounts. Those who are members of the armed forces or who work for the government get many discounts to a wide range of services, including hotels and motels. Ask in advance if a reduced rate is available for you, and what type of identification will be needed to get the lower rate.
6. Emergency travel rate. If you have to travel across the country unexpectedly due to a family member's illness or death, you may be able to get a room discount if you must stay at a motel or hotel. Call local inns to inquire about this option before booking a room, as some places offer this type of discount while others do not.
7. Unbooked rooms. In making your travel plans on the phone with a motel reservations clerk, it doesn't hurt to ask if there is an available "low-rate" room. These are motel rooms that remain unbooked close to the check-in time. Rather than not renting them, some managers offer a discount to last-minute arrivals, although some discounts of this type may be offered in advance.
Nothing ventured, nothing gained. So goes the old saying. The next time you must make travel plans that involve a motel stay, ask in advance about any or all of the above discounts. You might just save a few dollars that can be spent on entertainment!
Vacation fun on a tight budget
No matter what income level they fall into, everyone needs a break from their daily routine on occasion. The stresses of managing a job, family, and home wear on people, many of whom believe they do not have enough money in the bank for a vacation. Still, all of us need to learn to balance our "work hard" mentalities with play, even if that only consists of a frugal weekend get-away. For stressed adults on a budget, it is possible to plan an inexpensive and enjoyable vacation. By following these suggestions, you can schedule some well-deserved fun into your hectic life.
Many people think they cannot afford a vacation because they have a faulty definition of the word. A vacation does not have to be a two-week excursion to another country, complete with stays at five-star hotels and gourmet dining to be fun. Neither will your children only remember family trips happily if they visit elaborate theme parks or exotic beaches. In order to be enjoyable, a vacation need only appeal to your interests and desires. This means that, with careful planning, you can design a thrilling or relaxing get-away with minimal cost. One of the best ways to save money when vacationing is to consider alternate forms of travel. Rather than flying, you can go by car, bus, or even train, all of which are relatively cheap. If you must fly, do research on the internet and by phone to find bargain airfares. Some airlines offer discounted rates for last-minute booking or "flexible destination" flights. Keeping your options open will help you get the best deal. The cheapest travel option of all is to walk once you reach your destination. Tour the town by foot and you will get a fascination, not to mention healthy, view of the sites.
In the same way, accommodations need not consume the majority of your travel budget. Off-season hotel rates are very affordable, so vacationing in the fall will allow you to enjoy a stay in nicer rooms. If you reserve rooms over a Saturday night, you are also likely to receive a better rate. However, hotels are only one place to stay while traveling. Bed and Breakfasts also have excellent last-minute rates, especially in the slow season when they are more interested in filling their rooms than pulling in a huge profit. They offer a quaint alternative to hotel rooms and often provide at least one meal daily in the rate. For the rustic traveler, camping is an affordable and adventurous option. Campgrounds offer tents and cabins with access to sinks, bathrooms, and occasionally small kitchens. This way, you can save money and have access to the surrounding wildlife.
The average four-person family can expect to spend a minimum of $112 daily on food, an expense that can rapidly devour vacation funds. To limit your eating expenses, think of creative ways to cut corners. Rather than eating out three meals a day, pack a cooler and stock up on treats for the trip. This way, you can have a quiet picnic along the way and will not fork out snack money at every gas station. Stop at your vacation state's Visitors Center to find restaurant coupons. Often, you will find "Kids Eat Free!" offers or discounts on certain meals, all of which will give you a fine dining experience for a fast food fee. If you stay at a hotel, take advantage of complimentary continental breakfasts. Check with the local pancake house to see if they have an "early bird special." Taking advantage of these reductions will leave you with more money to devote to entertainment.
When considering vacation activities, remember that many inexpensive options are available no matter where you go. In cities, there are numerous museums and fascinating historical sites that only charge a few dollars for admission. Zoos are also fairly cheap and offer entertainment for the entire family. For a small fee, you can take a scenic trek through state parks. Throughout the year, most states hold festivals for wine tasting, arts and crafts, and historical re-enactments. Even a day of antique shopping in historically preserved towns can provide a relaxing retreat. Look close to home for interesting destinations that you have never had time to explore. Many of us do not realize that we can get away from it all without going farther than the next town. Again, your Visitor Center will direct you to tourist sites that you never knew were there. Your entire family will enjoy exploring caverns, seeing a small theater production, or attending a local concert. These events offer an optimum of fun for a limited amount of money.
No one should feel that they are too poor or busy to take a vacation. In fact, meager savings and three free days allow for a great get-away for the frugal traveler. If you start planning and filling up the vacation change jar now, you will be able to take a trip before you know it. Best of all, you can save yourself from falling into a financial hole over an elaborate vacation. In years to come, your family will not remember how much the trip cost but how much they enjoyed it. Focus on quality as you plan, stick to your budget, and you can have the reviving escape you deserve.
Many people think they cannot afford a vacation because they have a faulty definition of the word. A vacation does not have to be a two-week excursion to another country, complete with stays at five-star hotels and gourmet dining to be fun. Neither will your children only remember family trips happily if they visit elaborate theme parks or exotic beaches. In order to be enjoyable, a vacation need only appeal to your interests and desires. This means that, with careful planning, you can design a thrilling or relaxing get-away with minimal cost. One of the best ways to save money when vacationing is to consider alternate forms of travel. Rather than flying, you can go by car, bus, or even train, all of which are relatively cheap. If you must fly, do research on the internet and by phone to find bargain airfares. Some airlines offer discounted rates for last-minute booking or "flexible destination" flights. Keeping your options open will help you get the best deal. The cheapest travel option of all is to walk once you reach your destination. Tour the town by foot and you will get a fascination, not to mention healthy, view of the sites.
In the same way, accommodations need not consume the majority of your travel budget. Off-season hotel rates are very affordable, so vacationing in the fall will allow you to enjoy a stay in nicer rooms. If you reserve rooms over a Saturday night, you are also likely to receive a better rate. However, hotels are only one place to stay while traveling. Bed and Breakfasts also have excellent last-minute rates, especially in the slow season when they are more interested in filling their rooms than pulling in a huge profit. They offer a quaint alternative to hotel rooms and often provide at least one meal daily in the rate. For the rustic traveler, camping is an affordable and adventurous option. Campgrounds offer tents and cabins with access to sinks, bathrooms, and occasionally small kitchens. This way, you can save money and have access to the surrounding wildlife.
The average four-person family can expect to spend a minimum of $112 daily on food, an expense that can rapidly devour vacation funds. To limit your eating expenses, think of creative ways to cut corners. Rather than eating out three meals a day, pack a cooler and stock up on treats for the trip. This way, you can have a quiet picnic along the way and will not fork out snack money at every gas station. Stop at your vacation state's Visitors Center to find restaurant coupons. Often, you will find "Kids Eat Free!" offers or discounts on certain meals, all of which will give you a fine dining experience for a fast food fee. If you stay at a hotel, take advantage of complimentary continental breakfasts. Check with the local pancake house to see if they have an "early bird special." Taking advantage of these reductions will leave you with more money to devote to entertainment.
When considering vacation activities, remember that many inexpensive options are available no matter where you go. In cities, there are numerous museums and fascinating historical sites that only charge a few dollars for admission. Zoos are also fairly cheap and offer entertainment for the entire family. For a small fee, you can take a scenic trek through state parks. Throughout the year, most states hold festivals for wine tasting, arts and crafts, and historical re-enactments. Even a day of antique shopping in historically preserved towns can provide a relaxing retreat. Look close to home for interesting destinations that you have never had time to explore. Many of us do not realize that we can get away from it all without going farther than the next town. Again, your Visitor Center will direct you to tourist sites that you never knew were there. Your entire family will enjoy exploring caverns, seeing a small theater production, or attending a local concert. These events offer an optimum of fun for a limited amount of money.
No one should feel that they are too poor or busy to take a vacation. In fact, meager savings and three free days allow for a great get-away for the frugal traveler. If you start planning and filling up the vacation change jar now, you will be able to take a trip before you know it. Best of all, you can save yourself from falling into a financial hole over an elaborate vacation. In years to come, your family will not remember how much the trip cost but how much they enjoyed it. Focus on quality as you plan, stick to your budget, and you can have the reviving escape you deserve.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Top 5 Budget Travel Gifts
No matter the time of year, chances are you've found yourself shopping for a gift that will go to a travel enthusiast. Such gifts are almost always used and appreciated. But what can you give that will maximize each traveler's budget? Here are a few suggestions, along with links to either the products or articles that will help you make an informed buying decision.
1. Under $15: Laminated Pocket Maps
One of the most common ways people waste money when traveling is by getting lost. Spending two hours trying to find something you should have found in 20 minutes is both frustrating and money-wasting. Many of us are reluctant to carry paper maps because they're hard to fold and awkward to handle. Instead, whip out a nice laminated version. They're available from a variety of companies, and the condensed city versions are almost always less than $15 USD.
2. Under $30: Budget Travel Guidebooks
Guidebook authors would be the first to tell you that they cannot keep current on all the latest food, lodging, and entertainment bargains. But they can tell you about well-established budget haunts, and the methods for getting a good deal in a particular area. Choose wisely, and you'll only need one for each trip. But don't get too dependent on the author's recommendations--venture away from the comfortable and discover your own "finds."
3. Under $150: Carry-on Luggage
Whenever possible, you should avoid big, bulky luggage that must be checked. Carry-on luggage all but eliminates the risk of losing your bags enroute, and shortens your time in busy airports. It also offers mobility, an essential ingredient in hunting down the best lodging and transportation deals. With this in mind, Patagonia has developed a line called "MLC" which is short for "Maximum Legal Carry-on." Most of the bags are under $150 USD.
4. Under $500: Bargain Cruise
With a little shopping, you can find a cruise that will cost $100 USD per day, per person. This means you can sail for nearly a week and stay under $500. Check out the "last-minute deals" sections on your favorite line's Web site. These are cabins (often inside, without windows) that they could not sell. Naturally, the company would rather not leave port with these cabins empty, so they'll book you at a deep discount and at least get something.
5. About $1000: Travel Passes
The all-inclusive pass has to be one of budget travel's greatest purchases. If you want to see a lot for a little, consider Cathay Pacific's All Asia pass, good for 21 days and 18 cities, just $1299 USD per person. Or how about a European railpass? A one-month Eurailpass for $975 will allow you unlimited travel in 17 nations. It also earns discounts on the EuroStar and some cruise lines.
1. Under $15: Laminated Pocket Maps
One of the most common ways people waste money when traveling is by getting lost. Spending two hours trying to find something you should have found in 20 minutes is both frustrating and money-wasting. Many of us are reluctant to carry paper maps because they're hard to fold and awkward to handle. Instead, whip out a nice laminated version. They're available from a variety of companies, and the condensed city versions are almost always less than $15 USD.
2. Under $30: Budget Travel Guidebooks
Guidebook authors would be the first to tell you that they cannot keep current on all the latest food, lodging, and entertainment bargains. But they can tell you about well-established budget haunts, and the methods for getting a good deal in a particular area. Choose wisely, and you'll only need one for each trip. But don't get too dependent on the author's recommendations--venture away from the comfortable and discover your own "finds."
3. Under $150: Carry-on Luggage
Whenever possible, you should avoid big, bulky luggage that must be checked. Carry-on luggage all but eliminates the risk of losing your bags enroute, and shortens your time in busy airports. It also offers mobility, an essential ingredient in hunting down the best lodging and transportation deals. With this in mind, Patagonia has developed a line called "MLC" which is short for "Maximum Legal Carry-on." Most of the bags are under $150 USD.
4. Under $500: Bargain Cruise
With a little shopping, you can find a cruise that will cost $100 USD per day, per person. This means you can sail for nearly a week and stay under $500. Check out the "last-minute deals" sections on your favorite line's Web site. These are cabins (often inside, without windows) that they could not sell. Naturally, the company would rather not leave port with these cabins empty, so they'll book you at a deep discount and at least get something.
5. About $1000: Travel Passes
The all-inclusive pass has to be one of budget travel's greatest purchases. If you want to see a lot for a little, consider Cathay Pacific's All Asia pass, good for 21 days and 18 cities, just $1299 USD per person. Or how about a European railpass? A one-month Eurailpass for $975 will allow you unlimited travel in 17 nations. It also earns discounts on the EuroStar and some cruise lines.
How to Get Bumped for Free Airline Travel
Here's How:
Ask if the flight is overbooked. Call your travel agent the night before scheduled departure.
Pack flight schedules for other airlines leaving for your destination from the departure airport.
Get to the airport 90 minutes before scheduled departure. Be first in line at check-in.
Before agreeing to be bumped, make certain the airline is offering a free ticket or a deeply-discounted ticket.
Before accepting the ticket for another day's travel, tell the agent you want to be sure of today's arrangements.
Tell the agent you want confirmed reservations on the next flight to today's destination.
If there is no guaranteed seat on the next flight, tell them you want a guaranteed flight on another airline. Cite Rule 240.
Consult the flight schedule you packed, and choose an alternate flight that works best for you.
If your wait for another flight exceeds two hours, inquire about meal vouchers and other perks.
If you get bumped from the next flight, repeat the above steps. You could get a second free ticket in one day!
These steps are adapted from Tom Parsons of Best Fares Magazine
Tips:
There are rules everyone must follow in a "bumping" situation, but some of the benefits will vary by airline.
The rules on bumping are different for international flights. Consult your airline if applicable.
Under some circumstances, the airlines have to compensate bumped passengers with cash values up to $400 USD. Don't take a ticket that's worth less if you're eligible for the money.
Ask if the flight is overbooked. Call your travel agent the night before scheduled departure.
Pack flight schedules for other airlines leaving for your destination from the departure airport.
Get to the airport 90 minutes before scheduled departure. Be first in line at check-in.
Before agreeing to be bumped, make certain the airline is offering a free ticket or a deeply-discounted ticket.
Before accepting the ticket for another day's travel, tell the agent you want to be sure of today's arrangements.
Tell the agent you want confirmed reservations on the next flight to today's destination.
If there is no guaranteed seat on the next flight, tell them you want a guaranteed flight on another airline. Cite Rule 240.
Consult the flight schedule you packed, and choose an alternate flight that works best for you.
If your wait for another flight exceeds two hours, inquire about meal vouchers and other perks.
If you get bumped from the next flight, repeat the above steps. You could get a second free ticket in one day!
These steps are adapted from Tom Parsons of Best Fares Magazine
Tips:
There are rules everyone must follow in a "bumping" situation, but some of the benefits will vary by airline.
The rules on bumping are different for international flights. Consult your airline if applicable.
Under some circumstances, the airlines have to compensate bumped passengers with cash values up to $400 USD. Don't take a ticket that's worth less if you're eligible for the money.
Top 10 Tips for Budget Business Travel
Business travel is under greater budget scrutiny than ever. Cost-cutting CEOs want their workers to take fewer trips. They also want expenses on the trips that are absolutely necessary kept to responsible minimums. Unfortunately, some of the cost-cutting measures that leisure travelers employ are impractical or even impossible in the business travel world. Here are some tips that will help you turn out a more pleasing expense report.
1. Build a realistic, destination-based budget
A budget must be a realistic and based on destination costs rather than an arbitrary per diem figure. Don't send someone to New York and Cedar Rapids with the same expense account. You can know how much it will cost to send an employee on a given trip before he or she leaves for the airport. If you must travel to expensive destinations, don't despair. Many of the largest and costliest cities also offer money-saving advantages. Paris, London and New York, for example, all offer highly developed and efficient subway systems. It's possible to travel within these cities very inexpensively.
2. Small Businesses: Appoint an in-house travel expert
Did you know that there are at least five Internet tools you can use to track airfares, including one that will tell you what people paid on a particular route over the past few days?
Having this kind of information bookmarked can help someone at your small business become a sort of in-house "travel bureau." Get that person familiar with Priceline, car rentals, and transportation passes, too. Then let your expert make arrangements for everyone.
3. Negotiate hotel rates in frequently visited destinations
Innkeepers will grimace, but you can often negotiate with hotels on rates. If you'll be staying at a given hotel 10 nights in the next few months, that's 10 nights about which they no longer have to worry about an empty room. That should be worth a special rate if you pay in advance. It never hurts to ask. Hotels give breaks and "corporate rates" all the time...they just don't advertise the fact. If they can get you to pay full price, they're happy. If you can tell them it's between their property and another down the street for your 20 nights of business this quarter, they'll frequently offer some kind of discount.
4. Avoid making dinner the most important meal of the day
It's almost always cheaper to invite clients to a nice lunch than a nice dinner. Sometimes a restaurant you can't afford for dinner is within budget at lunchtime. Along these same lines, fill up on a free breakfast if it is offered at your hotel. It might decrease the temptation to order an expensive lunch or dinner.
5. Pack lightly
It's not always possible to pack lightly for a business trip, but the less you lug, the more cost savings are possible. I see business travelers taking local mass transit to the airport all the time--but those travelers don't have three heavy bags in tow. They're carry-on travelers who know it might cost $4.50 to take mass transit instead of paying a cab driver $30.
6. Three car rental strategies
It sometimes pays to book the smallest model at the lowest price, especially in places where they might not have a lot of sub-compact cars in stock. If they run out, they are required to upgrade you at the sub-compact price.
Waive the insurance offered at the car rental counter if your personal auto insurance or your credit card covers you. Car rental coverage tends to be expensive.
Always ask for a car with a full tank of gas, and be sure to return it full. That way, you're only paying for the gas you burn.
7. Don't panic on short-notice trips
First, check the airline "special offer" pages and the budget airlines. Southwest, for example, usually has a "walk-up" (day of) fare that is significantly cheaper than its competitors. Be careful using Priceline for flights, because you can get some very unpleasant schedules in exchange for your savings. On hotels, Priceline often works very well.
8. Bid on upscale hotels to secure a budget price
The "splurge" is sometimes a business necessity. You don't want to buy your client a cheap steak, and you don't want them to drop you off at the Roach Trap Motel. The challenge is to provide quality at a reasonable price.
Using the Internet to book airfares, hotels and even reserve tables at restaurants makes these splurges less hazardous to your budget's health. For example, Priceline or Hotwire sometimes allow you to buy a three- or four-star room (and the services that come with it) at a one- or two-star price. You can use online menu guides to find restaurants that are upscale yet not outrageously expensive.
9. Book air travel for the middle of the week
Saturday night stays are disappearing as budget airlines write new airfare rules. But a few airfares still require staying over Saturday night. Most business travelers want to be home on weekends, but if you can structure a trip to take advantage of a much lower fare, it's worth consideration.
Speaking of Saturday, it is one of the three cheapest days to fly, along with Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Thursdays follow closely. Mondays and Fridays are frequently more expensive. Book accordingly.
10. Hands off the mini-bar and in-room movie selector
It's obvious advice, but it bears repeating: hands off the mini-bar! You would think twice about paying $8 for a package of peanuts on vacation, so why is a business trip any different? The same is true of $20 in-room movies. Pack a good book or a DVD to watch on your laptop instead.
1. Build a realistic, destination-based budget
A budget must be a realistic and based on destination costs rather than an arbitrary per diem figure. Don't send someone to New York and Cedar Rapids with the same expense account. You can know how much it will cost to send an employee on a given trip before he or she leaves for the airport. If you must travel to expensive destinations, don't despair. Many of the largest and costliest cities also offer money-saving advantages. Paris, London and New York, for example, all offer highly developed and efficient subway systems. It's possible to travel within these cities very inexpensively.
2. Small Businesses: Appoint an in-house travel expert
Did you know that there are at least five Internet tools you can use to track airfares, including one that will tell you what people paid on a particular route over the past few days?
Having this kind of information bookmarked can help someone at your small business become a sort of in-house "travel bureau." Get that person familiar with Priceline, car rentals, and transportation passes, too. Then let your expert make arrangements for everyone.
3. Negotiate hotel rates in frequently visited destinations
Innkeepers will grimace, but you can often negotiate with hotels on rates. If you'll be staying at a given hotel 10 nights in the next few months, that's 10 nights about which they no longer have to worry about an empty room. That should be worth a special rate if you pay in advance. It never hurts to ask. Hotels give breaks and "corporate rates" all the time...they just don't advertise the fact. If they can get you to pay full price, they're happy. If you can tell them it's between their property and another down the street for your 20 nights of business this quarter, they'll frequently offer some kind of discount.
4. Avoid making dinner the most important meal of the day
It's almost always cheaper to invite clients to a nice lunch than a nice dinner. Sometimes a restaurant you can't afford for dinner is within budget at lunchtime. Along these same lines, fill up on a free breakfast if it is offered at your hotel. It might decrease the temptation to order an expensive lunch or dinner.
5. Pack lightly
It's not always possible to pack lightly for a business trip, but the less you lug, the more cost savings are possible. I see business travelers taking local mass transit to the airport all the time--but those travelers don't have three heavy bags in tow. They're carry-on travelers who know it might cost $4.50 to take mass transit instead of paying a cab driver $30.
6. Three car rental strategies
It sometimes pays to book the smallest model at the lowest price, especially in places where they might not have a lot of sub-compact cars in stock. If they run out, they are required to upgrade you at the sub-compact price.
Waive the insurance offered at the car rental counter if your personal auto insurance or your credit card covers you. Car rental coverage tends to be expensive.
Always ask for a car with a full tank of gas, and be sure to return it full. That way, you're only paying for the gas you burn.
7. Don't panic on short-notice trips
First, check the airline "special offer" pages and the budget airlines. Southwest, for example, usually has a "walk-up" (day of) fare that is significantly cheaper than its competitors. Be careful using Priceline for flights, because you can get some very unpleasant schedules in exchange for your savings. On hotels, Priceline often works very well.
8. Bid on upscale hotels to secure a budget price
The "splurge" is sometimes a business necessity. You don't want to buy your client a cheap steak, and you don't want them to drop you off at the Roach Trap Motel. The challenge is to provide quality at a reasonable price.
Using the Internet to book airfares, hotels and even reserve tables at restaurants makes these splurges less hazardous to your budget's health. For example, Priceline or Hotwire sometimes allow you to buy a three- or four-star room (and the services that come with it) at a one- or two-star price. You can use online menu guides to find restaurants that are upscale yet not outrageously expensive.
9. Book air travel for the middle of the week
Saturday night stays are disappearing as budget airlines write new airfare rules. But a few airfares still require staying over Saturday night. Most business travelers want to be home on weekends, but if you can structure a trip to take advantage of a much lower fare, it's worth consideration.
Speaking of Saturday, it is one of the three cheapest days to fly, along with Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Thursdays follow closely. Mondays and Fridays are frequently more expensive. Book accordingly.
10. Hands off the mini-bar and in-room movie selector
It's obvious advice, but it bears repeating: hands off the mini-bar! You would think twice about paying $8 for a package of peanuts on vacation, so why is a business trip any different? The same is true of $20 in-room movies. Pack a good book or a DVD to watch on your laptop instead.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Afford a Dream Family Vacation
Yes, you can have your dream vacation. Whatever your budget and whatever your dream, with careful planning and a few tips that dream family vacation can become a reality.
Long to stroll the streets of Paris with your stroller? Dream of showing the U.S. to your kids? Always wished your family could cruise to the Caribbean? Well, you can. Here's how.
Examine your Expenses
Odds are fairly good you are wasting money somewhere. Buying a latte each morning on the way to work? Getting lunch at a drive-through instead of packing a lunch? Going out to the movies weekly?
The best way to isolate unnecessary spending is to have every adult and any older children carry a small notebook for two weeks. Write down every single expense, even the tiniest. Quickly, the wasted expenses will jump out at you. Eliminate them.
Think the little things don't count? Think again. A venti mocha every weekday adds up to more than $1,000 a year.
Create a budget
Once you've determined the weak spots in your budget, you can set aside money for that dream family vacation by creating a budget.
Determine how much you can save, and trim where you can. Do you really need to spend $200 weekly on groceries? Start clipping coupons. Can you rent a movie and buy microwave popcorn instead of hitting theaters?
Stash it in savings
Start stashing every spare penny into savings. If you can, have your payroll direct deposit your budgeted amount straight into savings. Many banks will allow automatic transfers from checking to savings each paycheck.
Don't touch the money once it's in savings. Tempted to splurge on something? Stay focused by posting pictures of your dream destination in your checkbook or wrap a magazine article around your credit cards.
Put a large jar in your kitchen, and drop change and dollar bills from your pockets each day.
Sell it on eBay
I can almost guarantee there is something in your house you don't want or haven't touched in years, but that you could sell on eBay.
Go through those boxes you still haven't opened since the last move. You'll get a double benefit of clearing out unwanted clutter (and making room for souvenirs).
Priotitize your dream vacation desires
Just because it's your dream vacation doesn't mean you have to stay at the best hotels or dine at the finest restaurants.
Figure out what is most important to you. If it's a fancy hotel, concentrate your money there and make your travel budget tight elsewhere.
There are many ways to save on travel. Drive instead of flying. Camp instead of staying at a hotel. Look into an apartment exchange.
Plan to have nice meals for lunch, not dinner, when they tend to be much cheaper. Find a vacation rental so you can prepare your own family meals and save cash.
Plan to visit in the shoulder season instead of the peak season, allowing you to save in many areas.
Watch your dream vacation happen
If you implement all of these tactics, your dream vacation will be within reach faster than you can imagine.
Simply decide what your dream is, start saving and, when you have enough money, go. Your dream family vacation awaits.
Long to stroll the streets of Paris with your stroller? Dream of showing the U.S. to your kids? Always wished your family could cruise to the Caribbean? Well, you can. Here's how.
Examine your Expenses
Odds are fairly good you are wasting money somewhere. Buying a latte each morning on the way to work? Getting lunch at a drive-through instead of packing a lunch? Going out to the movies weekly?
The best way to isolate unnecessary spending is to have every adult and any older children carry a small notebook for two weeks. Write down every single expense, even the tiniest. Quickly, the wasted expenses will jump out at you. Eliminate them.
Think the little things don't count? Think again. A venti mocha every weekday adds up to more than $1,000 a year.
Create a budget
Once you've determined the weak spots in your budget, you can set aside money for that dream family vacation by creating a budget.
Determine how much you can save, and trim where you can. Do you really need to spend $200 weekly on groceries? Start clipping coupons. Can you rent a movie and buy microwave popcorn instead of hitting theaters?
Stash it in savings
Start stashing every spare penny into savings. If you can, have your payroll direct deposit your budgeted amount straight into savings. Many banks will allow automatic transfers from checking to savings each paycheck.
Don't touch the money once it's in savings. Tempted to splurge on something? Stay focused by posting pictures of your dream destination in your checkbook or wrap a magazine article around your credit cards.
Put a large jar in your kitchen, and drop change and dollar bills from your pockets each day.
Sell it on eBay
I can almost guarantee there is something in your house you don't want or haven't touched in years, but that you could sell on eBay.
Go through those boxes you still haven't opened since the last move. You'll get a double benefit of clearing out unwanted clutter (and making room for souvenirs).
Priotitize your dream vacation desires
Just because it's your dream vacation doesn't mean you have to stay at the best hotels or dine at the finest restaurants.
Figure out what is most important to you. If it's a fancy hotel, concentrate your money there and make your travel budget tight elsewhere.
There are many ways to save on travel. Drive instead of flying. Camp instead of staying at a hotel. Look into an apartment exchange.
Plan to have nice meals for lunch, not dinner, when they tend to be much cheaper. Find a vacation rental so you can prepare your own family meals and save cash.
Plan to visit in the shoulder season instead of the peak season, allowing you to save in many areas.
Watch your dream vacation happen
If you implement all of these tactics, your dream vacation will be within reach faster than you can imagine.
Simply decide what your dream is, start saving and, when you have enough money, go. Your dream family vacation awaits.
The World's Cheapest Destinations
Here are 10 places—undiscovered by most tourists—that are incredible bargains for the adventurous budget traveler.
ASIA
Bali: Tropical splendor on a shoestring
A world apart from the unrest that sometimes grips other parts of Indonesia, Bali seduces visitors with its magnificent beaches, lush volcanic peaks and impossibly green rice paddies. This serene tropical island, dotted with thousands of Hindu shrines and temples, is the stuff of escapist fantasies.
A few dollars buys a lot of luxury here—even budget accommodations feature beautifully carved wooden furniture and jewel-toned fabrics. For $10 to $20, you can bunk in a simple guesthouse or rent a beach bungalow. Even Bali's most lavish resorts cost a fraction of what you'd pay in other beach destinations. Surfers congregate at the late-night dance clubs in Kuta—and why not? You can always afford a $20 massage to soothe your hangover the next day.
Laos: Tranquility off the beaten track
Laos is one of the best bargains in Southeast Asia—and that's saying something, since most countries there are relatively cheap for travelers. Because tourism is only beginning to make inroads in Laos, visitors are not seen as mere revenue streams; locals extend a warm and genuine welcome.
Life moves at a languid pace in the former royal capital of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There, French colonial architecture coexists with dozens of graceful Buddhist temples, and monks in brilliant orange robes stroll the streets. You can find an inexpensive guesthouse for less than $20 a night; open-air cafes along the Mekong River offer absurdly cheap French and Lao specialties.
If you're backpacking, set off into the rugged countryside for caving, jungle trekking and a taste of traditional village life. In Xieng Khouang province, don't miss the "Plain of Jars," a mysterious field lined with hundreds of ancient stone urns.
Vietnam: A new era
After decades of turmoil, Vietnam has finally achieved peace and stability. Today its fledgling market economy is revving up, and the country is welcoming an increasing number of Western visitors.
In the colorful and chaotic cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you can rough it for a few dollars a day, or get a comfortable room with air conditioning and hot showers for $30 a night. In any street market, a mere $1 buys a steaming bowl of pho and a cold beer.
In Halong Bay, you can kayak amid towering limestone formations; the city of Hue offers a wealth of ancient imperial sites. For tropical seclusion, head for Phu Quoc Island, where a simple beachfront bungalow (including breakfast) can be yours for only $17 to $25.
India: Rajasthan, the land of princes
India can be a challenging place to travel, but no other nation on earth offers such a thrilling mix of cultures, landscapes and spiritual possibilities. If you have an adventurous spirit, you can get by on less than $20 a day—but even $40 to $50 a day will land you some creature comforts and more elaborate meals.
First-time visitors might consider flying into sprawling, bustling Delhi before making a side trip to Agra's wondrous Taj Mahal. Then go off to tour the vast province of Rajasthan, with its outrageously ornate forts and palaces. Rajasthan is full of adventure, whether you dream of spotting an elusive tiger or taking a camel safari under the stars. Its cities are equally impressive. In dusty-pink Jaipur, chaotic bazaars offer unbelievable deals on jewelry, pottery, fabrics and crafts. Another key stop is the city of Jodhpur, where the rooftops sport an intense shade of cobalt blue.
AFRICA
Zambia: Walk on the wild side
An African safari doesn't have to involve forking over thousands of dollars to a U.S.-based tour operator. It's possible to book your safari after you arrive—cutting out the middleman and saving a wad of cash. You can even travel to the game parks independently.
Zambia (www.zambiatourism.com) is not just one of Africa's unheralded destinations; it's also one of the continent's best safari values. South Luangwa National Park is a magnificent preserve, with leopards, elephants, zebras, giraffes and hippos roaming free. Just outside the park, budget chalets charge under $40 a day—or even less if you're willing to camp.
Zambia is also home to another of Africa’s most stunning spectacles: Victoria Falls. The Zambian side of the thundering falls offers camping for less than $5, or you can rent a hut for $40 to $50, with meals included.
Tunisia: Move over, Morocco
Morocco used to be North Africa's hub for backpackers, but prices are now on the rise as wealthy Europeans snap up vacation properties. Today it's Tunisia (www.tourismtunisia.com) that beckons with fabulous bargains. It's a modern and secular society, where travel is surprisingly convenient.
Tunisia is a land of ornate mosques and Lawrence of Arabia desert landscapes. Bustling markets tout rugs, pottery and colorful crafts—yours for a song. Archaeological wonders await, too, from the ancient city of Carthage to glorious Roman ruins. After you explore the culture, relax on a gorgeous Mediterranean beach where basic rooms and hostel bunks go for less than $15. If you can swing $50 a day, you'll sleep comfortably and eat well.
CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA
Honduras: Ecotourism on the cheap
Costa Rica, which used to be one of the best-kept secrets in budget travel, is now home to luxury developments and thousands of tourists. Farther north, however, Honduras (www.letsgohonduras.com) is still flying under most people's radar.
Like Costa Rica, this laid-back Central American nation offers a pristine rain forest that's alive with howler monkeys and multicolor birds. You'll find hiking, river rafting and impressive Maya ruins (at Copán). The Bay Islands are home to world-class scuba diving and snorkeling along a dazzling coral reef—in fact, this is one of the cheapest and best places in the world for diving instruction.
Head to Honduras before the guidebooks discover it. For now, $8 buys you a hearty dinner; decent budget digs go for less than $25 per night. You can spend even less if you don't mind sleeping in a hammock.
Guatemala: Window into Mayan culture
Guatemala combines natural splendor with a fascinating glimpse into Mayan culture, history and traditions. Antigua, the former capital city, is a cobblestoned gem full of colorful colonial architecture, with lush volcanoes looming in the distance. Don't miss the highland city of Chichicastenango, with its vast and colorful open-air market, or the pristine blue waters of Lake Atitlán. But the highlight for most travelers is surely Tikal: The ruins of a once-great Mayan city feature spectacular towering pyramids that rise out of the dense jungle.
Wherever you go, you'll find lots of simple bungalows and homey family-run inns that host budget travelers for as little as $20 to $30 per night. In low-key local joints, you can dine for about $5; frosty beers can be had for $1.50.
Peru: Bargains from the Andes to the Amazon
Peru offers some of the most rugged and diverse scenery in South America. Real shoestring travelers can get by on $25 a day, while $50 a day will put you up in midrange hotels with style and character.
Years ago, I lived in Lima, so trust me: You don't need to spend your time there. Instead, make a beeline for Cusco, a captivating colonial city high in the Andes. Though it's best known as the jumping-off point for Machu Picchu, don't overlook several other excursions that are closer to the city, like the remarkable ruins of Sacsayhuamán. If you plan on trekking to Machu Picchu, along the demanding—and sadly overcrowded—Inca Trail, you're now required to hire a guide. But you can also reach these haunting and majestic ruins via one of the most spectacular train rides on the continent.
The Amazon Basin presents a completely different face of Peru. Hostel bunks and jungle lodges are plentiful in gateway towns such as Iquitos, where boat tours reveal the diversity and wonder of the rain forest.
Argentina: Still the best deal in South America
Argentina has one of the few currencies that's faring even worse than the dollar. The result? An incredible steal for U.S. travelers, who are downright giddy at all the luxury within their reach.
Begin your trip in sophisticated Buenos Aires, a city of grand boulevards and tango salons. Carnivores will think they've died and gone to heaven: Parrillas (barbecue joints) offer incomparable steak dinners for $10. A bed in a hostel goes for $9, but in this town, $40 or $50 a night buys an extremely comfortable midrange hotel room.
Buenos Aires is only a preview of what Argentina has to offer. The beach resort of Mar del Plata is legendary for its rollicking nightlife. The garden city of Mendoza makes a great base for touring the wine country or taking on a whitewater rafting challenge. Or fly to the ends of the earth to see the towering peaks and glaciers of Patagonia and stroll among the friendly penguin colonies at Punta Tombo.
ASIA
Bali: Tropical splendor on a shoestring
A world apart from the unrest that sometimes grips other parts of Indonesia, Bali seduces visitors with its magnificent beaches, lush volcanic peaks and impossibly green rice paddies. This serene tropical island, dotted with thousands of Hindu shrines and temples, is the stuff of escapist fantasies.
A few dollars buys a lot of luxury here—even budget accommodations feature beautifully carved wooden furniture and jewel-toned fabrics. For $10 to $20, you can bunk in a simple guesthouse or rent a beach bungalow. Even Bali's most lavish resorts cost a fraction of what you'd pay in other beach destinations. Surfers congregate at the late-night dance clubs in Kuta—and why not? You can always afford a $20 massage to soothe your hangover the next day.
Laos: Tranquility off the beaten track
Laos is one of the best bargains in Southeast Asia—and that's saying something, since most countries there are relatively cheap for travelers. Because tourism is only beginning to make inroads in Laos, visitors are not seen as mere revenue streams; locals extend a warm and genuine welcome.
Life moves at a languid pace in the former royal capital of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There, French colonial architecture coexists with dozens of graceful Buddhist temples, and monks in brilliant orange robes stroll the streets. You can find an inexpensive guesthouse for less than $20 a night; open-air cafes along the Mekong River offer absurdly cheap French and Lao specialties.
If you're backpacking, set off into the rugged countryside for caving, jungle trekking and a taste of traditional village life. In Xieng Khouang province, don't miss the "Plain of Jars," a mysterious field lined with hundreds of ancient stone urns.
Vietnam: A new era
After decades of turmoil, Vietnam has finally achieved peace and stability. Today its fledgling market economy is revving up, and the country is welcoming an increasing number of Western visitors.
In the colorful and chaotic cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you can rough it for a few dollars a day, or get a comfortable room with air conditioning and hot showers for $30 a night. In any street market, a mere $1 buys a steaming bowl of pho and a cold beer.
In Halong Bay, you can kayak amid towering limestone formations; the city of Hue offers a wealth of ancient imperial sites. For tropical seclusion, head for Phu Quoc Island, where a simple beachfront bungalow (including breakfast) can be yours for only $17 to $25.
India: Rajasthan, the land of princes
India can be a challenging place to travel, but no other nation on earth offers such a thrilling mix of cultures, landscapes and spiritual possibilities. If you have an adventurous spirit, you can get by on less than $20 a day—but even $40 to $50 a day will land you some creature comforts and more elaborate meals.
First-time visitors might consider flying into sprawling, bustling Delhi before making a side trip to Agra's wondrous Taj Mahal. Then go off to tour the vast province of Rajasthan, with its outrageously ornate forts and palaces. Rajasthan is full of adventure, whether you dream of spotting an elusive tiger or taking a camel safari under the stars. Its cities are equally impressive. In dusty-pink Jaipur, chaotic bazaars offer unbelievable deals on jewelry, pottery, fabrics and crafts. Another key stop is the city of Jodhpur, where the rooftops sport an intense shade of cobalt blue.
AFRICA
Zambia: Walk on the wild side
An African safari doesn't have to involve forking over thousands of dollars to a U.S.-based tour operator. It's possible to book your safari after you arrive—cutting out the middleman and saving a wad of cash. You can even travel to the game parks independently.
Zambia (www.zambiatourism.com) is not just one of Africa's unheralded destinations; it's also one of the continent's best safari values. South Luangwa National Park is a magnificent preserve, with leopards, elephants, zebras, giraffes and hippos roaming free. Just outside the park, budget chalets charge under $40 a day—or even less if you're willing to camp.
Zambia is also home to another of Africa’s most stunning spectacles: Victoria Falls. The Zambian side of the thundering falls offers camping for less than $5, or you can rent a hut for $40 to $50, with meals included.
Tunisia: Move over, Morocco
Morocco used to be North Africa's hub for backpackers, but prices are now on the rise as wealthy Europeans snap up vacation properties. Today it's Tunisia (www.tourismtunisia.com) that beckons with fabulous bargains. It's a modern and secular society, where travel is surprisingly convenient.
Tunisia is a land of ornate mosques and Lawrence of Arabia desert landscapes. Bustling markets tout rugs, pottery and colorful crafts—yours for a song. Archaeological wonders await, too, from the ancient city of Carthage to glorious Roman ruins. After you explore the culture, relax on a gorgeous Mediterranean beach where basic rooms and hostel bunks go for less than $15. If you can swing $50 a day, you'll sleep comfortably and eat well.
CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA
Honduras: Ecotourism on the cheap
Costa Rica, which used to be one of the best-kept secrets in budget travel, is now home to luxury developments and thousands of tourists. Farther north, however, Honduras (www.letsgohonduras.com) is still flying under most people's radar.
Like Costa Rica, this laid-back Central American nation offers a pristine rain forest that's alive with howler monkeys and multicolor birds. You'll find hiking, river rafting and impressive Maya ruins (at Copán). The Bay Islands are home to world-class scuba diving and snorkeling along a dazzling coral reef—in fact, this is one of the cheapest and best places in the world for diving instruction.
Head to Honduras before the guidebooks discover it. For now, $8 buys you a hearty dinner; decent budget digs go for less than $25 per night. You can spend even less if you don't mind sleeping in a hammock.
Guatemala: Window into Mayan culture
Guatemala combines natural splendor with a fascinating glimpse into Mayan culture, history and traditions. Antigua, the former capital city, is a cobblestoned gem full of colorful colonial architecture, with lush volcanoes looming in the distance. Don't miss the highland city of Chichicastenango, with its vast and colorful open-air market, or the pristine blue waters of Lake Atitlán. But the highlight for most travelers is surely Tikal: The ruins of a once-great Mayan city feature spectacular towering pyramids that rise out of the dense jungle.
Wherever you go, you'll find lots of simple bungalows and homey family-run inns that host budget travelers for as little as $20 to $30 per night. In low-key local joints, you can dine for about $5; frosty beers can be had for $1.50.
Peru: Bargains from the Andes to the Amazon
Peru offers some of the most rugged and diverse scenery in South America. Real shoestring travelers can get by on $25 a day, while $50 a day will put you up in midrange hotels with style and character.
Years ago, I lived in Lima, so trust me: You don't need to spend your time there. Instead, make a beeline for Cusco, a captivating colonial city high in the Andes. Though it's best known as the jumping-off point for Machu Picchu, don't overlook several other excursions that are closer to the city, like the remarkable ruins of Sacsayhuamán. If you plan on trekking to Machu Picchu, along the demanding—and sadly overcrowded—Inca Trail, you're now required to hire a guide. But you can also reach these haunting and majestic ruins via one of the most spectacular train rides on the continent.
The Amazon Basin presents a completely different face of Peru. Hostel bunks and jungle lodges are plentiful in gateway towns such as Iquitos, where boat tours reveal the diversity and wonder of the rain forest.
Argentina: Still the best deal in South America
Argentina has one of the few currencies that's faring even worse than the dollar. The result? An incredible steal for U.S. travelers, who are downright giddy at all the luxury within their reach.
Begin your trip in sophisticated Buenos Aires, a city of grand boulevards and tango salons. Carnivores will think they've died and gone to heaven: Parrillas (barbecue joints) offer incomparable steak dinners for $10. A bed in a hostel goes for $9, but in this town, $40 or $50 a night buys an extremely comfortable midrange hotel room.
Buenos Aires is only a preview of what Argentina has to offer. The beach resort of Mar del Plata is legendary for its rollicking nightlife. The garden city of Mendoza makes a great base for touring the wine country or taking on a whitewater rafting challenge. Or fly to the ends of the earth to see the towering peaks and glaciers of Patagonia and stroll among the friendly penguin colonies at Punta Tombo.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Travel Q&A - Quick tips for women travellers
Q: Selecting the right hotel is essential. What’s the best way to decide?
A: Look for female-friendly accom- modations close to your meeting or event that belong to a reputable chain like Days Inn. An excellent choice for business travel, Days Inn hotels offer a host of business amenities including free high-speed Internet access in every room.
Q: Is it important to see the hotel room before accepting it and should I be concerned with the location?
A: Avoid the ground floor and request a room located near the elevator for added security as opposed to the stairwell at the end of the hall. Don’t be afraid to refuse a room if you are concerned about your safety and ensure your room has a deadbolt.
Q: Any safety tips to help avoid dangerous situations?
A: Travel smart and increase your awareness. Always meet business contacts in the lobby and don’t open your door to any unexpected person. If someone in the elevator makes you uneasy, get off at the next floor and return to the lobby. You can always ask for a hotel staff member to escort you to your room.
A: Look for female-friendly accom- modations close to your meeting or event that belong to a reputable chain like Days Inn. An excellent choice for business travel, Days Inn hotels offer a host of business amenities including free high-speed Internet access in every room.
Q: Is it important to see the hotel room before accepting it and should I be concerned with the location?
A: Avoid the ground floor and request a room located near the elevator for added security as opposed to the stairwell at the end of the hall. Don’t be afraid to refuse a room if you are concerned about your safety and ensure your room has a deadbolt.
Q: Any safety tips to help avoid dangerous situations?
A: Travel smart and increase your awareness. Always meet business contacts in the lobby and don’t open your door to any unexpected person. If someone in the elevator makes you uneasy, get off at the next floor and return to the lobby. You can always ask for a hotel staff member to escort you to your room.
Advice for Traveling Alone
Traveling alone can be an intimidating experience, especially for those who don’t do it often. Knowing what to expect and thinking about the challenges solo air travel throws at you ahead of time can make it an easy and efficient experience.
Avoid checking a bag. This is true of any air travel really, but I find it’s much easier to be a self-contained entity when alone, leaving as little responsibility to the airline as possible. There’s nobody to search for the right baggage claim with you or to help you talk to the agent if a bag gets lost. By keeping everything with you, there’s less chance of error.
Along those same lines, don’t be afraid to gate check a bag (usually signified by yellow tags put on the bag as you board). This works differently from normal bag checking, as any gate checked bag is only given to the airline as you board the plane, and is retrieved right as you exit the plane. The bag never actually goes through the whole luggage system - that invariably ends misplacing things.
Traveling alone seems to increase the chance of you being searched at security, particularly if one is not obviously on a business trip. Just assume you will be searched and pack accordingly.
The biggest advantage of traveling alone is usually the ability to get an exit row seat. If the airline you are flying with allows online check-in (usually available 24 hours before departing time) exit row seats can usually be obtained there. If not, make sure to ask at the gate, as most of the time there will be the odd one exit row seat that nobody has taken because they want to sit with their traveling companions. They get company, you get leg room. Sometimes a book and being able to stretch is better than someone to talk to.
Avoid checking a bag. This is true of any air travel really, but I find it’s much easier to be a self-contained entity when alone, leaving as little responsibility to the airline as possible. There’s nobody to search for the right baggage claim with you or to help you talk to the agent if a bag gets lost. By keeping everything with you, there’s less chance of error.
Along those same lines, don’t be afraid to gate check a bag (usually signified by yellow tags put on the bag as you board). This works differently from normal bag checking, as any gate checked bag is only given to the airline as you board the plane, and is retrieved right as you exit the plane. The bag never actually goes through the whole luggage system - that invariably ends misplacing things.
Traveling alone seems to increase the chance of you being searched at security, particularly if one is not obviously on a business trip. Just assume you will be searched and pack accordingly.
The biggest advantage of traveling alone is usually the ability to get an exit row seat. If the airline you are flying with allows online check-in (usually available 24 hours before departing time) exit row seats can usually be obtained there. If not, make sure to ask at the gate, as most of the time there will be the odd one exit row seat that nobody has taken because they want to sit with their traveling companions. They get company, you get leg room. Sometimes a book and being able to stretch is better than someone to talk to.
Travel Insurance
Do not forget to include in your to do list before planning your travel. Most people take travel insurance lightly and never discuss travel insurance in detail with their travel agents. It is important to know what your travel insurance covers you against in the event of any unforeseen situations which may subject you to a financial loss or otherwise.
Travel insurance covers different features and it is up to you to choose and ensure you are adequately covered. The first and most common is Trip Cancellation/Interruption coverage. Most of these policies cover cancellations due to weather, sudden illness, death and emergencies whilst at home or abroad.
Another common type of travel insurance is for medical emergencies. This type of coverage is particularly useful if you plan on traveling to underdeveloped countries, or for individuals with an on going illness that might require medical attention at some point during the trip. These policies will reimburse you for the cost of doctor visits, medication, and sometimes even medical evacuation out of the country. It’s best to check with your insurance provider regarding the details, as travel health coverage policies vary widely.
It is also possible to obtain travel insurance that will cover non-refundable tickets in the event that a trip has to be cancelled for any number of reasons. Some coverage plans will sometimes cover missed connections as well, which can be a lifesaver in the event of a flight delay or over-crowded and/or confusing airport terminal. For longer trips, or for frequent travelers, a comprehensive package is probably the best value. These usually provide a wide variety of coverage, and some even allow you to choose what kinds of coverage to be included. Since it’s impossible to know what problems might arise during your trip, these policies cover all the bases so that you have protection against monetary loss in the event of nearly any emergency.
Travel insurance covers different features and it is up to you to choose and ensure you are adequately covered. The first and most common is Trip Cancellation/Interruption coverage. Most of these policies cover cancellations due to weather, sudden illness, death and emergencies whilst at home or abroad.
Another common type of travel insurance is for medical emergencies. This type of coverage is particularly useful if you plan on traveling to underdeveloped countries, or for individuals with an on going illness that might require medical attention at some point during the trip. These policies will reimburse you for the cost of doctor visits, medication, and sometimes even medical evacuation out of the country. It’s best to check with your insurance provider regarding the details, as travel health coverage policies vary widely.
It is also possible to obtain travel insurance that will cover non-refundable tickets in the event that a trip has to be cancelled for any number of reasons. Some coverage plans will sometimes cover missed connections as well, which can be a lifesaver in the event of a flight delay or over-crowded and/or confusing airport terminal. For longer trips, or for frequent travelers, a comprehensive package is probably the best value. These usually provide a wide variety of coverage, and some even allow you to choose what kinds of coverage to be included. Since it’s impossible to know what problems might arise during your trip, these policies cover all the bases so that you have protection against monetary loss in the event of nearly any emergency.
Don’t Take a Vacation From Health
The stress and excitement of travel can make you more likely to get sick, but if you follow a few simple tips, you’re more likely to stay healthy throughout your trip - and your trip will definitely be more enjoyable. The good news is that as a teen, your immune system is as strong as an adult’s, but lack of sleep and a poor diet can make it easier for you to become sick.
The first thing you should do if you’re heading overseas is to find out what kinds of vaccinations you’ll need in advance because different countries have different requirements. In the United States, contact your doctor or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for a list of necessary vaccinations. You’ll want to allow plenty of time for this step in case you need to get vaccines that require more than one dose.
Common Travel Troubles
Three of the most common health problems that you may experience when traveling are jet lag, altitude sickness, and diarrhea. When you fly across time zones, the differing amounts of light can change your internal body clock, resulting in a condition known as jet lag. Jet lag may cause some symptoms that are bummers on a fun trip, including upset stomach, insomnia, and tiredness.
There are some things you can do to combat jet lag; for example, if you’re traveling from west to east, you should stay out of the sun until the day after your arrival. If you’re flying from east to west, go for a brisk walk as soon as possible after you arrive.
Altitude sickness is caused by dry air, a decrease in oxygen, and low barometric pressure when you travel to a higher altitude than you’re used to. As a result, you may have problems, such as headaches, dehydration, and shortness of breath. Some people are affected at 5,000 feet (1,524 meters), but others aren’t affected until they reach altitudes of 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) or more. Find out what altitude you’re traveling to before you go to see if altitude sickness could be a problem.
The best prevention for altitude sickness is to gradually increase your altitude every day to get used to it. If that isn’t possible, a drug known as acetazolamide can help relieve and even prevent symptoms of altitude sickness. If you think that you might get altitude sickness, talk with your doctor before you leave home.
The topic of diarrhea may seem gross, but it can be a serious problem. Traveler’s diarrhea, known as turista, often occurs when a foreign type of bacteria enters your digestive tract, usually when you eat contaminated food or water. The best way to prevent turista is to be very careful of the food you eat and the water you drink on the road.
Safe Eats and Drinks
So what foods are safe to eat? Any foods that have been boiled are generally safe, as well as fruits and vegetables that have to be peeled before eating. Avoid eating uncooked or undercooked meat or meat that is not cooked just prior to serving.
Stay away from foods that require a lot of handling before serving. Here’s an example: Nine friends ate at a restaurant when on a school trip overseas; eight had diarrhea the next day. The one who didn’t get sick was the only one who had ordered a dish that didn’t need to be touched by human hands right before serving.
One of your favorite foods at home is on the safe list on the road - pizza! Pizza dough, sauce, and cheese are foods that are less likely to spoil than others, and the high heat of a pizza oven tends to kill any harmful bacteria in the food.
You’ve probably heard that you shouldn’t drink the water in some countries overseas, but did you know why? Water supplies in many developing countries are not treated in the same way as water supplies in developed countries; various bacteria, viruses, and parasites are commonly found in the water. Many experts suggest you drink only bottled water when traveling. If you need to use tap water, you should boil it first or purify it with an iodine tablet. Even if you’re brushing your teeth, rinsing contact lenses, drinking a small glass of water to wash down pills, or adding ice to your drink, first take precautions to ensure the water is safe.
You Can Take It With You
When you’re packing, you’ll want to include any medications and other medical supplies you use on a daily basis because they may be hard to find in another country if you run out. Even if you can find them, there’s a good chance the formulations will be stronger or weaker than the ones you’re used to. These may include any prescriptions you already take, such as inhalers, allergy medication, and insulin, as well as contact lens cleaners and vitamins.
Packing an over-the-counter pain medication like acetaminophen and diarrhea medication is also a good idea. It’s a good idea to pack some over-the-counter allergy medication even if you don’t take it at home. People sometimes unexpectedly develop allergic reactions to the pollens and other allergens found in a new environment. Those with asthma or other allergies can unexpectedly react to these new substances.
Write It All Down
Even if you watch what you eat and drink and get enough rest while you’re traveling, you may still get sick. The good news is that you’ll probably be able to find competent medical care. The key is knowing where to go. Most travel guides suggest you go to a hospital where English is spoken or U.S.-trained doctors can be found. For this reason, it’s a good idea to always carry a written copy of your medical history with you.
Having such important information available in one place can help health care workers make appropriate decisions, and you won’t have to worry about forgetting important information at a time when you’re likely to be upset and not thinking clearly.
Before you leave your home sweet home, create a medical history form that includes the following information:
your name, address, and home phone number as well as a parent’s daytime phone number
your blood type
immunizations
your doctor’s name, address, and office and emergency phone numbers
the name, address, and phone number of your health insurance carrier, including your policy number
a list of any ongoing health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, or AIDS
a list of current medications you are taking and pharmacy name and phone number
a list of allergies to medications, food, insects, and animals
a prescription for glasses or contact lenses
the name, address, and phone number of a relative other than your parent
It also helps if you have some basic emergency medical knowledge, not only for yourself but for helping others you may be traveling with. A great way to prepare for your trip is to take a first-aid or basic life support course before you go; if you’re traveling with a group, you should know where the first-aid kit is and what’s in it.
Basic Safety
It’s easy to let your guard down when you travel. After all, you’re more relaxed and there are so many new sights to focus on. In addition to paying attention to your personal safety (avoiding secluded places and not walking alone after dark), you’ll need to reset your thinking when it comes to traffic safety, too. The rules of the road aren’t the same overseas as they are at home. In some countries, people drive on the opposite side of the road and you’ll need to be aware of this before you cross the street - look in the opposite direction from the one you’re used to. Pedestrians don’t always have the right of way overseas, either. Be sure there are no cars coming when you step into the street: If there are, they may not stop for you!
If you practice these healthy hints you can focus on the scenery - not medical emergencies - and return home with nothing more troubling than some tacky souvenirs!
The first thing you should do if you’re heading overseas is to find out what kinds of vaccinations you’ll need in advance because different countries have different requirements. In the United States, contact your doctor or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for a list of necessary vaccinations. You’ll want to allow plenty of time for this step in case you need to get vaccines that require more than one dose.
Common Travel Troubles
Three of the most common health problems that you may experience when traveling are jet lag, altitude sickness, and diarrhea. When you fly across time zones, the differing amounts of light can change your internal body clock, resulting in a condition known as jet lag. Jet lag may cause some symptoms that are bummers on a fun trip, including upset stomach, insomnia, and tiredness.
There are some things you can do to combat jet lag; for example, if you’re traveling from west to east, you should stay out of the sun until the day after your arrival. If you’re flying from east to west, go for a brisk walk as soon as possible after you arrive.
Altitude sickness is caused by dry air, a decrease in oxygen, and low barometric pressure when you travel to a higher altitude than you’re used to. As a result, you may have problems, such as headaches, dehydration, and shortness of breath. Some people are affected at 5,000 feet (1,524 meters), but others aren’t affected until they reach altitudes of 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) or more. Find out what altitude you’re traveling to before you go to see if altitude sickness could be a problem.
The best prevention for altitude sickness is to gradually increase your altitude every day to get used to it. If that isn’t possible, a drug known as acetazolamide can help relieve and even prevent symptoms of altitude sickness. If you think that you might get altitude sickness, talk with your doctor before you leave home.
The topic of diarrhea may seem gross, but it can be a serious problem. Traveler’s diarrhea, known as turista, often occurs when a foreign type of bacteria enters your digestive tract, usually when you eat contaminated food or water. The best way to prevent turista is to be very careful of the food you eat and the water you drink on the road.
Safe Eats and Drinks
So what foods are safe to eat? Any foods that have been boiled are generally safe, as well as fruits and vegetables that have to be peeled before eating. Avoid eating uncooked or undercooked meat or meat that is not cooked just prior to serving.
Stay away from foods that require a lot of handling before serving. Here’s an example: Nine friends ate at a restaurant when on a school trip overseas; eight had diarrhea the next day. The one who didn’t get sick was the only one who had ordered a dish that didn’t need to be touched by human hands right before serving.
One of your favorite foods at home is on the safe list on the road - pizza! Pizza dough, sauce, and cheese are foods that are less likely to spoil than others, and the high heat of a pizza oven tends to kill any harmful bacteria in the food.
You’ve probably heard that you shouldn’t drink the water in some countries overseas, but did you know why? Water supplies in many developing countries are not treated in the same way as water supplies in developed countries; various bacteria, viruses, and parasites are commonly found in the water. Many experts suggest you drink only bottled water when traveling. If you need to use tap water, you should boil it first or purify it with an iodine tablet. Even if you’re brushing your teeth, rinsing contact lenses, drinking a small glass of water to wash down pills, or adding ice to your drink, first take precautions to ensure the water is safe.
You Can Take It With You
When you’re packing, you’ll want to include any medications and other medical supplies you use on a daily basis because they may be hard to find in another country if you run out. Even if you can find them, there’s a good chance the formulations will be stronger or weaker than the ones you’re used to. These may include any prescriptions you already take, such as inhalers, allergy medication, and insulin, as well as contact lens cleaners and vitamins.
Packing an over-the-counter pain medication like acetaminophen and diarrhea medication is also a good idea. It’s a good idea to pack some over-the-counter allergy medication even if you don’t take it at home. People sometimes unexpectedly develop allergic reactions to the pollens and other allergens found in a new environment. Those with asthma or other allergies can unexpectedly react to these new substances.
Write It All Down
Even if you watch what you eat and drink and get enough rest while you’re traveling, you may still get sick. The good news is that you’ll probably be able to find competent medical care. The key is knowing where to go. Most travel guides suggest you go to a hospital where English is spoken or U.S.-trained doctors can be found. For this reason, it’s a good idea to always carry a written copy of your medical history with you.
Having such important information available in one place can help health care workers make appropriate decisions, and you won’t have to worry about forgetting important information at a time when you’re likely to be upset and not thinking clearly.
Before you leave your home sweet home, create a medical history form that includes the following information:
your name, address, and home phone number as well as a parent’s daytime phone number
your blood type
immunizations
your doctor’s name, address, and office and emergency phone numbers
the name, address, and phone number of your health insurance carrier, including your policy number
a list of any ongoing health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, or AIDS
a list of current medications you are taking and pharmacy name and phone number
a list of allergies to medications, food, insects, and animals
a prescription for glasses or contact lenses
the name, address, and phone number of a relative other than your parent
It also helps if you have some basic emergency medical knowledge, not only for yourself but for helping others you may be traveling with. A great way to prepare for your trip is to take a first-aid or basic life support course before you go; if you’re traveling with a group, you should know where the first-aid kit is and what’s in it.
Basic Safety
It’s easy to let your guard down when you travel. After all, you’re more relaxed and there are so many new sights to focus on. In addition to paying attention to your personal safety (avoiding secluded places and not walking alone after dark), you’ll need to reset your thinking when it comes to traffic safety, too. The rules of the road aren’t the same overseas as they are at home. In some countries, people drive on the opposite side of the road and you’ll need to be aware of this before you cross the street - look in the opposite direction from the one you’re used to. Pedestrians don’t always have the right of way overseas, either. Be sure there are no cars coming when you step into the street: If there are, they may not stop for you!
If you practice these healthy hints you can focus on the scenery - not medical emergencies - and return home with nothing more troubling than some tacky souvenirs!
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Airport Tips
We all know that airports can be a hassle these days but a little planning and preparation can make a big difference. Try these tips to help you breeze right through.
Before Your Trip
Check your itineraries for seat assignments and make any ticket changes you need.
Handle any special needs you might have before you get to the airport.
Check to make sure the contact information we have for you is right.
Take care of passports, visas, and any important papers you might need way ahead of time.
Use our online Check-in tool and self-service kiosk to avoid long lines at the airport.
Know the check-in requirements for your airport.
Know the requirements for the security checkpoints where you’ll be traveling.
Check security checkpoint wait-times and allow plenty of extra time for busy holiday periods.
During Your Trip
Check the display screens and monitors in the airport to find your gate.
Arrive at the gate early with your boarding pass and e>ticket receipt.
Keep an eye on the gate display screens that we have in most airports.
Listen closely for announcements at the gate. It might be important stuff.
Before Your Trip
Check your itineraries for seat assignments and make any ticket changes you need.
Handle any special needs you might have before you get to the airport.
Check to make sure the contact information we have for you is right.
Take care of passports, visas, and any important papers you might need way ahead of time.
Use our online Check-in tool and self-service kiosk to avoid long lines at the airport.
Know the check-in requirements for your airport.
Know the requirements for the security checkpoints where you’ll be traveling.
Check security checkpoint wait-times and allow plenty of extra time for busy holiday periods.
During Your Trip
Check the display screens and monitors in the airport to find your gate.
Arrive at the gate early with your boarding pass and e>ticket receipt.
Keep an eye on the gate display screens that we have in most airports.
Listen closely for announcements at the gate. It might be important stuff.
Top 10 Travel Tips
1.Check the latest travel advice for your destination and subscribe to receive free e-mail notification each time the travel advice for your destination is updated.
2.Take out appropriate travel insurance to cover hospital treatment, medical evacuation and any activities, including adventure sports, in which you plan to participate.
3.Before travelling overseas register your travel and contact details online or at the local embassy, high commission or consulate once you arrive, so we can contact you in an emergency.
4.Obey the law. Consular assistance cannot override local laws, even where local laws appear harsh or unjust by government standards.
5.Check to see if you require visas for the country or countries you are visiting or transiting. Be aware that a visa does not guarantee entry.
6.Make copies of your passport details, insurance policy, travellers cheques, visas and credit card numbers. Carry one copy in a separate place to the originals and leave a copy with someone at home.
7.Check with health professionals for information on recommended vaccinations or other precautions and find out about overseas laws on travelling with medicines.
8.Make sure your passport has at least six months validity and carry additional copies of your passport photo with you in case you need a replacement passport while overseas.
9.Leave a copy of your travel itinerary with someone at home and keep in regular contact with friends and relatives while overseas.
10.Before departing check whether you are regarded as a national of the country you intend to visit. Research whether holding dual nationality has any implications for your travel.
2.Take out appropriate travel insurance to cover hospital treatment, medical evacuation and any activities, including adventure sports, in which you plan to participate.
3.Before travelling overseas register your travel and contact details online or at the local embassy, high commission or consulate once you arrive, so we can contact you in an emergency.
4.Obey the law. Consular assistance cannot override local laws, even where local laws appear harsh or unjust by government standards.
5.Check to see if you require visas for the country or countries you are visiting or transiting. Be aware that a visa does not guarantee entry.
6.Make copies of your passport details, insurance policy, travellers cheques, visas and credit card numbers. Carry one copy in a separate place to the originals and leave a copy with someone at home.
7.Check with health professionals for information on recommended vaccinations or other precautions and find out about overseas laws on travelling with medicines.
8.Make sure your passport has at least six months validity and carry additional copies of your passport photo with you in case you need a replacement passport while overseas.
9.Leave a copy of your travel itinerary with someone at home and keep in regular contact with friends and relatives while overseas.
10.Before departing check whether you are regarded as a national of the country you intend to visit. Research whether holding dual nationality has any implications for your travel.
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