Staying Healthy When You Travel

Whenever you are going for an international trip, it is vital that you spend some time paying attention to your health and health needs. You may be visiting a country where hygiene is a little suspect, and that is why staying healthy when you travel is paramount. The last thing you need is to fall ill in a strange place where people may not speak the same language as you and where the standard of healthcare may not be up to your liking.

In fact, when making reservations for international locales, many Americans forget to find out about what vaccinations they may require before their trip. And, then they wonder why they fell ill either during their trip or soon after returning.

When it comes to an international vacation, it goes without saying that you would have to make your plans a few months in advance. Two months before your departure, speak to your doctor and find out what are vaccinations you might require. Some countries have made it mandatory for foreign visitors to get vaccinations or take preventive medication in their home countries. For instance, if you are planning a vacation to South Africa, you will have to take a vaccination for Yellow Fever, or if you are visiting Honduras, you should begin taking anti-malarial medication 3 to 6 weeks before your departure.

When traveling to foreign countries, make sure you take a small first aid kit with you. This kit should contain medication for diarrhea and vomiting, anti-histamines, aspirins and also an anti-bacterial cream. If you are on prescription medication, make sure that you carry the medication in a labeled bottle and also ask your doctor to give you a current prescription for emergency.

On your trip make sure that you drink just bottled water, avoid meats and raw fish, eat just food that is cooked properly and served piping hot, and stay away from roadside vendors. In addition, make sure you take insect repellant sprays and adequate sunscreen. This is especially true if you are holidaying in a tropical location.

About Author:
Kum Martin is an online leading expert in the traveling industry. He also offers top quality articles like:
Activities In Maine, Events in Mississippi

Safety Kitesurfing Guidelines

When you start to kite surf, you can be overwhelmed with number of detailed things you should keep a track of. so it a good idea that you create a check list of things that you should pay attention to before and after you kitesurf.

First of all, take a basic course to learn basic safety. A motto to keep in mind is to have "safety before excitement" This applies from the beginners to the novice stage.

• Dissolve the chicken loop before each time you go out and kitesurf, then you know that it works.
• Be responsible and considerate. You are responsible for all the events associated with your pursuit of the sport.
• Attach the ropes to the kite at the last moment before you before start and get into the water.
• Put on the safety line (Leash) before kite's hedge is removed off the ground and take it to the end, when the dragon is secured on the ground after landing. You should always have a fuse / weight (sand, the top, round stone, etc) on the kits, even when there is no wind or little wind because the wind can change quickly.
• Think about how the winds can swirl around buildings, trees, or rocks to windward before starting kits.
• Kite surfing is not without a dead-man's safety release system, which allows you to remove power from the kits as you want (should work even if you are unconscious).Always have an opportunity to be able to detach yourself from the kite, even under traction.
• Do not kite surf near an airport.
• Do not kite surf before, during, or immediately after a thunderstorm.
• Kite cords can be cut when the kits are flying. Do not let yourself or even get a chance to get tangled up in the kite lines, which do not fly your kite over other people, do not wrap rope around your hand, etc.. Avoid kite surfing in densely populated areas; be sure to come out to the "free" water as soon as possible. Select unpopulated beach or coastal sections for takeoff and landing with a lot of space and out of the wind when possible.
• Spectators should be located to windward of kite surfer.
• Make sure there is a "friendly" beach strip / ground on your lee when to start.
• Avoid kite surfing in the wind from the land if you can run towards the open sea.However, if you must, make sure that there are opportunities with the rescue boat and have someone who keeps an eye on you from the country all the time. Also, be sure you can handle the difficult situations that may arise, such as a broken leg or kits to breakage.
• Please use the life jacket and helmet.
• Never use leg harness attached to the board in which this can be very dangerous because it can cause the board hit the back of the head.
• Do not ask non-kite surfers for help when you land or take off kits. Be clear about your intentions and talk to people before you help and making clear signs. Make sure it will help you or the people around know how to handle equipment safely and how to behave kits.
• Don't Kite Surf in strong winds if you are a beginner.
• As a beginner, you usually spend more time in water, so use because a thicker wetsuit than you would otherwise have chosen.
• If possible, choose a harness with handles on the back. This makes it easier to assist each other in difficult situations where the kits have much traction.
• Never operate further offshore than you can swim homes (in an emergency without any equipment).
• Bring a safety razor in case you need to cut the ropes
• Check your equipment regularly for damage detection: the boom and pull tabs are in good condition and that there are no knots or abrasion damage to the ropes.

For more tips and advice visit http://www.kite.nu/wordpress blog or watch http://www.kite.nu/wordpress/kitesurf-varberg/kitesurf-varberg-utrustningen/

Discover Saint Lucia Hotels For All Types of Traveller

Saint Lucia, an island is the Caribbean, is an increasingly popular tourist destination. There is something for everyone on the island from rain forests to volcanoes to the beautiful Carribean beach. Saint Lucia hotels are also available for many different types of traveling styles.

~ All-Inclusive Resorts for all Ages

All-inclusive resorts are extremely popular. These resorts include food, drink, and many activities. Many all inclusive resorts are family friendly and offered children's activities and baby sitting to allow parents the chance to relax with a drink on the beach.

~ Romantic Getaways

Other resorts may cater to couples and adults and provide a private, romantic experience. A resort of this kind is perfect for honeymooners and anniversary treats.

~ Luxury properties and Four Star Hotels

Saint Lucia hotels include some unique luxury properties with private beach access or villas with rain forest views. These hotels include first rate service and amenities with fine dining.

~ Affordable Options
The island offers a range of affordable housing options, including small guest houses and hotels. You even have the option of eco-friendly camping for a more adventurous traveler. Be sure to ask about the distance and costs of transportation to the beach, restaurants, and other activities.

Even the most prestigious resorts on this beautiful island offer deals to vacation club members. Members of these clubs are able to access some of the best hotels at the best possible prices. If you are looking for a relaxing vacation in a top hotel or resort, a vacation club membership will pay for itself in just a few trips.

With such a wide variety of Saint Lucia hotels, every traveler should be able to find the perfect hotel. With a little advance planning, a Caribbean vacation can be both luxurious and affordable.

CLICK HERE to find out how you can get the best deal on all Saint Lucia Hotels regardless of your reasons for visiting the island. Discover the luxury of Saint Lucia regardless of your budget.

Safety Tips For Travelers

Many people love traveling. It is very enjoyable and a lot of things to experience. But a traveler should be careful of the problems that sometimes he/she may encounter. So to protect them from risk and scams, a traveler should be sensitive to people around them and should follow some guidelines during the travel.

For example, travelers should not just easily hand their wallets to anyone. In other countries, there are lots of con men who pretend to be police officers and ask the wallet to check for drug money. Avoid traps like these, even if it seems like the people you're dealing with may be friendly. It's simply not worth taking the risk as you'll be sorry if anything negative occurs. Don't say you weren't warned!

And a traveler should be aware that there are people appearing to be legitimate wearing official badge. Please make a double check when they ask for an ID or cash. This is a classic trick that many people use to swindle unsuspecting tourists and you don't want to fall victim to it.

One common tricksters are the photographers. They will just take you pictures without asking permission and then ask money after to sell the pictures they took. Or some may disguise to develop it in a nearby studio and ask you money for that but no plan of coming back. Just ran your money away.

But the most common one are the pickpockets. Usually they post in crowded areas like tourist spots and wet markets. Their style is like they are making a drama because they work in team. One will try to distract your attention by asking you question or bumped your things and the other surreptitiously pickpocket your wallet or your money.

So beware of people around you and use something where you can permanently put your money or wallet. Travelers, especially women should always hold their wallet close to their body to avoid it from being snatched.

Another problem that a traveler may encounter is when a riding cabs or taxis. Some taxi/cab drivers, if they find their passenger new in the place, they will overcharge the fare. So in order to avoid this incident, be sure to ask the fare in particular places before you start traveling. Although you don't have to be afraid to ask questions about the price and check all the time on the meters.

These area just practical tips you can consider when traveling. Have a nice and safe travel.

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Chicago Field Museum Discount Coupons - Tickets to an Adventure on History

Saving from your expenses but want to visit the Chicago Field Museum?

Nature, rocks and fossils, animals, plants and ecosystems not only in The Americas but also on Africa and Asia and the Pacific is one big package the Chicago Field Museum has to offer. This might seem all too expensive considering all that it features but it's not when you know the right way to visit the museum without spending as much.

Chicago Field Museum walks you through different exhibits that include different artifacts, artworks, and replicas from different areas of the world like America, Africa and Asia. While every historical museum will promise you of a T-rex display on the widest lobby, what sets Chicago Field Museum apart is that it is home to the largest, most complete and most preserved Tyrannosaurus Rex named Sue. Get to know about the littlest things about life like the DNA through real laboratory experiments using the state-of-the-art equipment. This experience is hands on and interactive, genetic research dedicated in the preservation of the world's biodiversity. Just when you thought you've seen everything in the museum, it still has some surprises to change your perception about museums.

Experience the world in three dimension as Ernst and Young 3-D Theater unveils each topic the museum exhibited in a different perspective, this is Chicago's only completely digital 3D theater. See the world in 3D like no other.

To get a hold of this experience you would need museum discount coupons. Discount coupons will give you access to each exhibit and watch the world in 3D. Visit a museum in a different perspective with Chicago Field Museum Discount Coupons.

For more information on how you can get Chicago Museum coupons, here's a page that can give you really cool tips.

Erika Ayala contributes most of her articles to different websites that are all about saving. If you're interested to read more of her articles, you might like to read about getting Cloud gift cards for free online.

Things to Be Aware of at Family Vacation Destinations

When you are trying to plan an awesome vacation for your family to one of the top vacation destination spots, the last thing that you want to have to worry about is the safety of your spouse and/or your children. This is why it is sometimes advisable to hire a travel professional to help you with the planning of your trip or vacation.

A travel agent or travel professional is someone who specializes in helping people book vacations to specific destinations or locations that they have either been to themselves or which they know detailed information about. For example, a travel agent would and should be able to you what hotels are the best to stay at in a particular area, what restaurants and parts of town to avoid, as well as other noteworthy items that might pertain to customs or traditions or religious affiliations that someone who is not familiar with that area would want to be informed about.

When looking to book a vacation for your family, always make sure that you let at least one person back home (i.e. someone who is not going on vacation with you but who you know and trust) where you are going. Information that you might leave with this person would include: the name of the hotel where you and your family will be staying, the address and phone number of the hotel and an itinerary of your trip to include other information such as flight departures, flight numbers, etc. Depending on how long you are planning on being away, you may want to leave more or less information with this person.

If you are traveling with small children, it is never too early to teach your kids about travel safety. The rule of never talking to strangers and always holding Mommy or Daddy's hand would be applicable here. If you have older children and younger children, you can let the older child assume some of the responsibility for watching younger siblings. Examples of this might be if you are on a cruise ship, for example. If you and your wife decide to go to an adult-themed cocktail hour in one part of the ship, then you could let your older child (above the age of 17) watch over younger ones in a designated area until you get back. However, you should still exercise caution and use your better judgment in all situations like these that involve your child.

Overall, planning and executing a vacation, no matter if you book it on an all-inclusive Carnival Cruise Line or on a whim, should be fun. If you need help, are unsure or just want someone else to make the plans happen, hire a travel specialist; that's what they're there for!

Travel Agent Avalon

Europe River Cruises

Stop Worrying and Just Enjoy Travel

Have you went on a trip recently, or enjoy to travel? You'll no doubt then spot from a mile away the conventional tourist "experience." It goes something like this:

• Wake up prematurely and race through the accommodation's brekkie.
• Go, Go, Go Go and see as many stops as possible until it is dark.
• Drop in a heap in your hotel room with a sore back, blisters, and totally exhausted.
• Do it again tomorrow.

The following are some traveling ideas to make your next journey adventure more enjoyable, less rushed, and more what you had in mind when you booked it in the first place. Do one, do all of them, but at least one to make your trip a little more special for you - you've earned it.

Start with Organization

I see a lot of the trek strain people bring upon themselves is mostly due to a lack of organization. Where is your passport - it should always go in a good spot. How about making a list of the stuff you need to take - and check things off the list before you go? The fact is that in most situations, you can leave whatever you are missing behind. Only your personal health and safety and your documents are the things that cannot straightforwardly be replaced. Make sure those two things are accounted for and stop freaking out about the rest.

On a similar note, a little bit of planning goes a long way. Regardless if it's the Capital Building or just a scenic view sure to know when to go/how to get there and mark it in your diary. With the abundance of journey planning sites, travel books, and other resources, you have no excuse for not arriving in a alien location informed of pretty much everything except that new shop that opened just last month.

Appreciate Your Traveling Personality

Any idea what sort of traveler you are like? Do you like museums and exhibits, or would you rather be outside in the drizzle looking at the flowers and walking the streets? How about your voyage partner - are you cozy companions or polar opposites? Same goes for eating out - do you like adventurous options, or would you prefer something a little 'normal' (from your world view) and safer. Also consider your abilities: museums that do not have signs in your local speech probably will not be as much fun, nor will that palace that you don't have the physical stamina to climb the stairs to. You should really be realistic on what you can't do and what you can. You are you who you are, so just do what you can do and forget the rest.

Relax and Appreciate Where You Are

Maybe you can sleep in for a change.

Maybe you can enjoy that second cup of coffee.

Just sit in the gardens with your feet in the fountain, enjoying the fresh air, and skip that twelfth museum.

The best tour experiences sometimes come through serendipity. So slow down, relax, and let those experiences find you. pick one or two absolute must-see places, check the opening hours, and go. Otherwise, just see how the rest unfolds. In other words: get your nose out of the guide and appreciate where you are.

Aidan Jones writes for Sharing Travel Experiences, a travel lifestyle magazine featuring articles about experiential travel.

Top 5 Tips When Travelling Alone

Are you thinking of travelling to a distant alone but feel a bit apprehensive because of all the horror stories you've been hearing? Although many people prefer to travel to unfamiliar destinations with their loved ones, there's no reason for you to feel discouraged about travelling by your lonesome. As long as you keep these top 5 tips in mind, you'll be able to see the world safely.

Tip 1 - Always keep your family and friends back home in the loop. This means that you should always let them know where you are regularly so that they can keep track of your whereabouts.

Tip 2 - Bring with you sufficient identification cards and keep your important documents such as your passport and visa near you at all times. Purchase one of those passport holders so that you won't have to leave your important documents at the hotel or at places where it can be stolen easily.

Tip 3 - When visiting a crowded area, never wear expensive jewellery or flashy accessories if you don't want thugs and pickpockets to take notice of you. Wear simple clothing and try to blend in with everyone else.

Tip 4 - If you need to go out at night and you're worried about your security, make sure to carry a handy pepper spray with you at all times. Avoid dark places and as much as possible always walk with other people to get to your destination.

Tip 5 - As soon as you land, store vital numbers immediately in your cell. Keep the cops on speed dial so that if ever you need assistance, they'll just be a phone call away.

Vanessa has written informative articles online for many years. Her passions in life are centered around animals and healthy living but you can also check out her latest website here http://womensweddingrings.net/ where she discloses how the wedding ring came to be and the many different types and styles to choose from. Picking out your wedding ring can be a very personal choice because a woman's wedding ring is as unique as the woman.

Meet Funny Disneyland Characters

It will be a matter of stupidity if you have not met the Characters in Disneyland. Your tour will be incomplete and you will have to repent for not shaking hands with your favorite characters. Now the fact is that the main objective of designing Disneyland is to entertain the people. Especially, those who are children and babies need excellent mental food for the expansion of their imagination and dreams. They like to dream and play with fairies and angels. It will be very joyous event if they see their dream boy or girl in actuality.

Now Disneyland has been built for helping children to feel the beauty of life. Life is very beautiful if you perfectly manipulate your lifestyle. Now at Disneyland you will come into contact with a number of characters who will fulfill your dream. If you have children just let them to accompany you to see these wonderful and mind blowing Disney Characters. For example, you can start your morning journey by attending the Character Breakfast.

Over there you will definitely meet different sorts of characters like Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Snow White, Mary Poppins, Jasmine, Ariel, Minnie and Mickey Mouse. All these funny characters will surely revitalize the mind of your kids and they will be in rollick mood after watching their various activities. You can also shake your hands with few characters at the gate of the park where they will welcome you. It will be amazing and your kids will express their pleasure and happiness after meeting these beautiful characters..

There is another marvelous site called Toon Town. It is the place where all the characters stay. You can make a short trip to Toon Town to see their residential homes where they live and entertain people. Goofy's Kitchen is another wonderful site in the park. Here you will find that many funny characters pop their heads outside the windows for seeing the visitors.

If you have any problem to see the characters at Toon Town, you should utilize your next trip to Fantasyland where you will watch many characters. These marvelous characters will relay different stories when you will stand in front of them. There will be the sweet rapport between you and your favorite characters. Therefore, without any confusion, you need to choose the perfect Disneyland tour to watch the various characters which seem to inspire you to become one of them. Try you can get success.

Michael's passion is to write on wide varieties of subjects. His latest writing is at http://memorexmp3player.com which contains reviews on memorex mp3 player and other information about mp3 players.

Travel Pillow and Sheets - Your Best Travel Companion!

The best travel pillow and sheets are indispensable, especially if your trip is bound to take for hours. Any seasoned traveler knows that it's a big no-no if you forget to pack the appropriate pillow and sheets during your travel. Travel pillow and sheets would definitely make you feel well-rested and healthy after that long and tiresome flight.

Unfortunately, the quality of service of airlines today is slowly decreasing. When your travel time would take for ages, the most common scenario is that most passengers would want to relax by taking a nap - that's really not a problem. But, the annoying part is that some airlines either have limited stocks of travel pillows or what they have is not of the best quality. If you think that's already enough, after checking in a hotel, you'll soon discover that the bed sheets and pillow cases are filled with bedbugs and dust mites. Now, you see the practicality of having your own set of travel pillow and sheets.

Well, you do have to consider some restrictions in your luggage space. The good news is that most pillows and sheets for traveling are now available in different types and features to make them easier to place in your luggage.

The two features that a great travel pillow should have are flexibility and proper neck support. Actually, inflatable and buckwheat pillows are the two most popular types of pillows today.

The inflatable pillows available in the market are very easy to fill with air - just 10 to 12 air puffs and these are good to go. The air-filled design lets you firmly rest your neck and supports the proper alignment of your neck and spine. Just by releasing the air inside and folding it into several folds, inflatable pillows will completely fit into your luggage without taking up much space.

The type of pillow that's been gaining recognition these days is the buckwheat travel pillow. Unlike the feather or foam filled pillows, buckwheat pillows perfectly conforms to your neck and back outlines so that there would be no strain exerted on those parts.

Today, it really doesn't matter anymore if you'll stay on a cheap or ultra-expensive hotel. As long as you get the cleanest bed sheets and pillow cases, everything else is trivial (Unfortunately, that's not always the case). To protect yourself from allergens and other bed insects, choose a travel sheet (a.k.a. sleeping bag liners) that's hypoallergenic and made from high-quality materials, like silk. Silken sheets are convenient because they're lightweight, easy to clean and will dry off quickly.

Whether you're an experienced or an admitted amateur traveler, it's always good to remember that you need a versatile, comfortable, and proper-sized travel pillow and sheets (if you need to find the right one at the kids' section, you're more than free to do so). A baggage is only considered complete if you have the best travel pillow and sheets with you.

Fay Salmons writes about travel pillow and sheets at www.pillowreport.com

How to Have a Safe Adventure When Travelling Abroad Alone

When I was 19 years old, I took a 6 months work appointment in Paris, France. I went alone, wasn't fluid in the language and didn't know anybody. Since then, I have worked in various countries, managing to not only make many great new friendships but to stay save throughout.

Being a foreigner makes you vulnerable, even more so, if you are a female travelling by yourself. Here is what I advise anybody going out on their own.

Rather than be afraid, be prepared

Growing up in the country, I am blessed with a naturally confident disposition. Despite of that, I took a self-defense course in my mid-teens. The lessons learnt then still remain with me today. You don't necessarily have to become a karate black belt, trust me, even a few simple moves may be able to distract an aggressor and buy you time to escape. In addition, it will do wonders in helping you feel strong rather than weak.

Always let someone know who you are with, where you are going

As I said in the introduction, I have met great people while abroad, most of them men, who turned from voluntary tour guides to great friends. In order to meet people you have to get out there, speak to people, allow them meet up with you, invite you for dinner etc. I have been on many excursions, places that I would have never found on my own, often also alone in a strangers car. But I never just got in.

When abroad one of my first things to do, is to find myself a cafe and/or a bar where I quickly start chatting with the staff. I make a point of remembering their names and going back to the same place to establish a bit of a relationship. If I meet someone or group of people, I arrange to hook up at that bar or cafe, rather than at my place. You don't want strangers to know exactly where you live, especially if you live alone. Then if they don't already know the bar staff, I make a point of introducing them, and sliding in a piece of information such as

'Hey, this is Pierre, he works for XYZ. We are heading to PocoLoco for the evening. But I'll drop by for another drink before I go home'.

That way, you are sure somebody has at least seen who you left with and that your date understands you've left traces.

Trust your gut, and don't be stupid

One rule I always live by, is that I make my own rules. Anybody who isn't prepared to obey my wishes, doesn't get a first (or second) chance. There are more decent than non-decent people in this world, so you don't have to settle. If I say, I want to meet them at the restaurant, and they insist on picking me up, too bad. It is my way or the highway, and if I find them to be argumentative right from the start, I drop them right there and then. Until I know them better and feel comfortable that the person or group of people is trustworthy, I am very disciplined. Even then, as my Mother has always said: trust is good, control better.

Nobody who is halfway responsible will not honor your wishes or won't understand that you'd rather be safe than sorry. Yes, you may have to battle egos. Like I told a Spanish guy once:,No, I don't trust you. I've known you for exactly 2 hours and if you had a daugter, you would not want her to do that either.' He agreed.

Speaking about drinks

Alcohol can seriously cloud your view. You may want to have a drink to drop some of your inhibitions around approaching strangers and speaking another language. I can honestly say, that I have never been so drunk, I wasn't alert enough to register danger and run in a straight line.

Also, I suggest you watch your drinks. You can accept someone buying you a Martini, but make sure you know exactly what is in it. Don't leave it unattended either, for example during a washroom break. If in doubt, tell them you don't like it, or ask them to finish it. Again, no need to be rude, but be persistent.

Don't be naive

Meeting people in groups is different, but none of the individual men I met, started interacting just to be a tour guide. The sooner you let them know that you aren't interested in sex (if that is the case) the better. Yes, I could have gone on more dates or excursions, had I been a little more flirty. However,it is all about being safe. It is generally speaking easier to walk away from a guy who isn't half drunk and has spent the evening rubbing up against you. And if he really truly cares about you, he will wait and in the meantime respect your wishes. Just as they do back home.

(Any of the suggestions offered are based on my personal experience and should not be taken as guidelines or guarantees for remaining safe. Please use your own discretion and speak to a specialist for professional advice).

Anne has been writing for many years, entertaining and educating many around the globe. You can check out more of her writings on Large Patio Umbrellas or find out what she has been researching on Badger Shaving Brushes

Being a Lone Female Doesn't Mean You Can't Travel The World Safely

Would you recommend a female friend, daughter or sister to take a lone holiday in Bangkok, Mexico or Tokyo by themselves? The answer is probably not. The idea of women traveling alone in foreign climes is shrouded in the assumption that single females are at greater risk of robbery, attack or worse when by themselves. Taking the right precautions and a little bit of healthy paranoia can make sure you not only enjoy a safe trip but also have a great time in the process.

The first safety precaution for women traveling alone is to keep in touch with family and friends back home as well as people like hotel managers, hostel reps and other travelers whilst on your vacation. This doesn't mean checking in ever hour but instead letting people know where you are staying, which regions you are planning to visit and when you should be expected in a certain place. Visiting remote locations such as national parks or out of the way islands are best explored as part of a group while making sure you can easily contact someone if need be via mobile phone.

Knowing what to expect from the country you are visiting is highly advised. With cultures and etiquette varying from place to place, there are many hidden pitfalls that could land lone female travelers in social hot water. To get around this, it is advised that travelers do a bit of research about their vacation destination before departure. Pay attention from the minute you arrive and travelers will quickly work out what is socially acceptable in one country and disrespectful in the next. For women traveling in the Middle East, for example, smiling or making eye contact with men could lead other people to question your morals. Don't be afraid to ask fellow travelers or hotel reps if you are unsure whether certain behaviors and dress codes are socially acceptable in the place you're staying.

When packing for your travels remember to pack light. Walking in heels might be practical on home turf but can easily become a hassle when abroad. Jewelery and valuables are also best left at home given that jewelery can attract thieves and could even prevent you from getting a good deal when bartering for goods in a market setting. Carry large amounts of money is also inadvisable for the same reasons. Modern ATM software means that it's never been easier to take your regular credit or debit card with you and prevents the need to take large amounts of cash with you. Travelers checks and pre-loaded travelers' cards are also advised.

Finally, implementing basic common sense is perhaps the best piece of advice for lone female travelers. Sticking to the main tourist trails is a good idea as is taking taxis at night time rather than walking to your destination. Never get into an unmarked cab or accept a lift from a local; no matter how helpful or genuine they seem. Remaining aware whilst immersing yourself in a new culture will ensure you have a memorable and enjoyable time whilst staying safe.

Harvey McEwan writes about travel.

Choosing a Travel Agent - How to Get the Best

The best vacations happen mostly because of good travel agents. This is why selecting a travel agent is a task that you should focus on. A remarkable agent is one who will ask a lot of questions such as where your vacation will take place, the reason for it, how much your budget is, the activities you want to do, etc. Once you work with fine travel agents, you can expect your trip to be unforgettable, enjoyable, and one that fits your budget.

When it comes to selecting travel agents, there are a few pointers to remember. First you have to know your needs. Of course, a good travel agent will without doubt ask about your needs, but it is still easier if you volunteer the information yourself. You have to share with your agent the following information:

• Vacation purpose
• Vacation spot and activities you'll want to engage in once you reach your destination
• Transportation e.g. cruise, long drive by car, etc. and if you'll need a car to rent while in your vacation spot
• Your maximum budget

Part of the process of remarkable travel agent selection is for you to ask the right questions. You should find out if the agent has his or her specialties e.g. cruise line specialty, island hopping specialty, and the likes. Prior to selecting an agent, you should also ask if you can contact your agent 24 x 7, or if there are only specific times within the day that he or she is available for questions and concerns. Another essential question to ask is what kind of services the travel agent offers and how much is the fee per service.

When choosing travel agents, you also have to consider how knowledgeable they are. For example, a travel agent who only knows everything about cruises, but is not that knowledgeable about vacation sprees involving hiking, camping, etc. may not be suited for you if you and your family love being one with nature during your trip. Likewise, a full time agent may also be more knowledgeable and may be able to give better deals than an agent who works part time.

In the process of selecting an agent, you should also decide whether you need an agent with good product knowledge, fine destination knowledge, or both. For instance, you have travelled to Hawaii for a couple of times and know which hotel you want to stay at, but have no idea about the current price of tours and activities in the island - what you need is one with the product knowledge who will be able to present you with affordable packages that suit your likes or needs. A person who is a first time traveler to Hawaii, on the other hand, may benefit more by selecting a traveling agent who has both the destination and the product knowledge.

Finding the right agent for your planned vacation may seem difficult at first, but by knowing what you want to do, where you want to stay, your budget, and so on, you will easily get to transact with a good travel agent who will make your trip worthwhile.

There are places where you can buy mailing list of travel agents with email address, phone, fax etc. Big-mailing-lists.com is a highly recommended site for purchasing direct mailing lists of the ones in your country to suit your direct marketing projects.

Palace on Wheels - Facilities Onboard

The luxury train Palace on wheels is outfitted with all the types of facilities that you wish to have. The luxury tourist train offers you comforts, which probably was a way of life for the rulers at one time. It is a train with remarkable facilities and contemporary services.

The tour onboard Palace on wheels is full of thrilling experiences. While commuting you can have a glimpse of the magnificent palaces and the camels passing by, this is a manifestation of that era of splendor. This package trip will take you on a majestic odyssey with all the amenities particularly planned to suit current needs including central air conditioning, all channel music, facility of an intercom in the train, an individual pantry and relaxation area in every coach, comfortable coupes with the provision of connected washrooms. Dining room onboard Palace on Wheels will be provided with the two unusual restaurants named Maharaja and Maharani, offering delectable Indian, continental,Thai,Italian and Rajasthani cuisine. Besides other amenities of a well stocked bar, a reading and relaxing room and welcoming joyful attendants serving you for all 24 hours.

Personal Facilities

Accommodation
There are 14 completely air conditioned luxury salons, each a combination of 4 twin bedded chambers with direct music, intercom facility, connected toilets, 24 hour running hot and cold water, shower, wall to wall carpeting and numerous other amenities.

Baggage Collection
Your luggage is carried up and taken to your personal compartments without your worrying about it.

Entrance Kit
Each visitor is offered with an arrival kit comprising of stationery items, promotional material, cards etc. Anything extra can be asked for, from the attendant, always accessible at your service.

Attendant 'Khidmatgar'
The attendant or 'Khidmatgar' are always available to meet the requirements of all the travelers.

Cuisine
A scrumptious array of dishes to choose from - Continental, Chinese, Thai, Indian, Italian and Rajasthani cuisines are obtainable on the Palace-On-Wheels.

Mineral Water
Water which is offered is in its purest form.

Newspapers and Magazines
The primary dailies and newspapers welcome you each morning over a hot cup of tea or drink of your preference. Also offered to you is a hefty set of magazines.

Wine
A complimentary bottle of superior Indian wine to the stately guests, courtesy Palace on Wheels.

For disabled Persons
There is special provision available in the shape of wheel chairs, crèches, and a special attendant for physical help.

Author is an associate editor for Trains Timetable. Get all possible information about Indian Train Timetable and Indian Railways Timetable. We also provide information about online Train Timetable, Holiday Packages India and Train Booking in India.

Why Boat Holidays Are Great

Boat holidays are a fantastic way to unwind and have a holiday experience like no other on the water.

There's nothing quite like meandering through networks of rivers and canals, at speeds of around 4-6mph; so far removed from the fast pace rush-hour existence you are accustomed to.

Boat holidays offer a great chance to enjoy some diverse wildlife; you can pass through nature reserves and spot rare birds in their natural habitats, as well as other creatures that dwell far away from town life.

Possibly one of the most appealing factors in boat holidays is how completely unrestricted you are for the whole time. You can go as slow as you feel you want to, and you can stop and start as you please.

The maximum speed you'll want to travel is around 7mph, and if you cruise for around 4 hours each day, you will cover 80 - 100 miles per week. Just stop off anywhere you are interested in, secure the boat and off you go to explore! Towns, cities and villages are within walking distance, meaning you can moor up and spend a night on the town, or enjoy any other attractions such as restaurants, museums, shopping, cathedrals, castles; whatever takes your fancy.

Boat holidays are great also because your pet dog can join in the fun on board; meaning no one in the family need be left behind.

There is no expertise needed for hiring a boat for boat holidays, and you don't need a license to drive a boat. You'll be fully trained by staff from the holiday company you are hiring the boat from, and there are a few simple rules to follow, a bit like the Highway Code (but not as complicated). You will be given a comprehensive boating manual to keep with you on board should you need to refer to it at any time.

Many companies that organize boat holidays will present you with a boat with a full tank of fuel and this is often included in the price. More often than not this is enough for the whole of your holiday. If you are charged, the money will be taken from your fuel deposit, and it will only be for the fuel you have used.

Holidays by boat offer an unbeatable way to see the countryside at your own pace, and relax amongst nature with friends; an experience that just can't be beaten.

Dom Donaldson is a travel expert. Find out more about Boat holidays and the adventures to be had.