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Merry Christmas from everyone at Aussie Escape

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 01:31:00 +0000

From all of us here at Aussie Escape we would like to wish you all the best at this holiday time. Whether you are travelling the world or sitting at home thinking about it, we hope that you and your family are safe and happy and that 2008 will be all that you hope it will be.

Thankyou for your support and readership this year and we look forward to bringing you more interesting and informative travel stories in the new year!

Saturday 22nd December 2007: Two very different volunteering stories - India and Ecuador

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 00:47:00 +0000

Rachael Cossar volunteered through i-to-i at a community work project in Calcutta. India is one of i-to-i’s most popular destination for volunteers, with many being attracted by it’s quite unique and fascinating culture with the chance to help out those who find themselves in a desperate situation. Rachael’s emails to home give a great insight into daily life in Calcutta, and what’s it like to volunteer through i-to-i!

31 August 2007

“True to earlier form, and to trot out a cliché early, India has again assaulted all my senses. It's an insane, frantic and exhausting place, but also extremely stimulating and very rewarding.

Calcutta, to be frank, is shabby. It's a heaving place, straining under an INTENSE humidity that appears to have stood still since Independence, at least in regards to appearances. If you use your imagination, you can see glimpses of beauty in the old buildings, but most are so thoroughly run down and battered by the weather that this is a difficult task. Together with the crowding, poverty, ludicrous transport and infrastructure issues, plus the thousands of dogs (who simply couldn't be bothered to bite anyone, but are certainly not adverse to a scrap outside my window in the very early hours of the morning), Calcutta is a confronting city.

The Mission I am working at is, amongst all this madness, an amazing oasis. For a place where women and girls come because they have been living on the streets, are domestic violence victims, or are orphans, it is probably the most consistently positive place I've ever worked and the women truly are inspirational. We start every morning with yoga, followed by prayers and singing, before the work kicks off in the various teams - tailoring, silk screen printing, canteen, jam making, etc. A few of the women speak quite good English, but most have very little; one girl's vocab is limited to 'SISTER!', which she consistently calls out to me with no ambition to take it any further, whilst others are persistent in their endeavours to practice - 'sit, sit, speaking English!'

When I'm not helping out the various work teams, I'm actually formally teaching English, an assignment that is hard (and not just because we do everything sitting on the floor), challenging, hilarious and very entertaining (my broad Australian accent - yes, yes - is proving problematic...). It is also extremely rewarding. I was probably disproportionately pumped when one of the girls understood tenses; ecstatic when I overheard one of them say 'thanks very much', rather than 'very, very thanks' and delighted when I heard one of the girls asking a customer 'would you like any help?'

Next week, I have been asked to do a presentation to the senior team on business management and marketing. They want to know how to think like a business, rather than just as an NGO. It'll be a no PowerPoint, on the floor affair with a translator, which will be more humbling for me than them. I'd suggest that it's us 'corporates' that could learn more from them rather than vice versa.”

18 September 2007

“Well, my stint in Calcutta wrapped on Saturday, and I'm now down in Goa, doing the poolside, massages, beach walks and long lunches (at a table, on a chair) gig. And it ain't half bad...

My last two weeks at Ankur Kala were both intense and amazing, to the point of me being quite emotional when I left the Mission on Friday night. For the past fortnight, I continued to teach English, whilst also helping out at various exhibitions, plus presenting, and then facilitating, new business and marketing opportunities with the management team.

Leaving on Friday was sad, but not a departure made with any regret. I leave completely assured that I am 'part of the family and not a volunteer anymore' and with a new name - Rachael-di, meaning 'older sister' - that only became part of my vernacular about two weeks ago.”

In contrast, Meghan Taylor volunteered with Global Vision International’s ‘Volunteer Work with Children in Ecuador Project’ this year.

“I originally planned to volunteer in Ecuador for only six weeks during the summer after I graduated from university. But after my first four weeks in Otavalo, working with children who had hearts so full of love for everyone they met and living with a host family that made me feel like one of their own, I decided I had no other option but to extend my stay for an extra two weeks. Never did I imagine the affect that volunteering would have on me - the children became more than just students to me, they were like family.

They taught me more than I think I taught them - about Ecuador, about being grateful for the blessings you have, about enjoying and exploring nature, and about myself. I will always remember the way the children touched my heart, and the impact of volunteering a

broad will stay with me forever. I eagerly look forward to my return visit to Otavalo and the indigenous community where I taught because these places and the people in them have become a part of who I am”

_________________________________________

Aussie Escape is very proud to support both of these volunteer organisations. i-to-i works with over 500 volunteer projects across 34 countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America. To join the thousands of people that volunteer overseas each year through i-to-i, click here.

Global Vision International specialises in volunteer experiences all over the world and will ensure your travelling experience makes a difference, and there are several other testimonials from GVI Volunteers in our archives. Please use the search facility in the top right hand corner of the page to find more or just click on the logo below to go to their website.

Saturday 15th December 2007: Thailand Specials, Interviews, New York Tours, Christmas Travel and Volunteering all this week at Aussie Escape

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 15 Dec 2007 01:26:00 +0000

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Amazing Phuket from $1195 for 8 nights!
The latest deal from our friends at Asia Specialist Holidays takes from you Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane to Phuket Thailand, including airfares, transfers, accommodation and daily breakfasts.
READ MORE…

Interview with a Global Volunteer: GVI's Erica Louise
This week we interviewed Erica Louise, the Australasian Regional Manager for Global Vision International. We wanted to find out what made people volunteer, what kind of placements were available for prospective volunteers and what kinds of experiences awaited them.
READ MORE…

The Nightmare Before Christmas
It's the constant queuing that really starts to get to you. You arrive at the airport to find 10,000 of your closest friends all trying to check in. You make it through that, and they've all beaten you to the security check. Then there's another interminable wait to have your passport checked, and a two-hour wander through crappy duty-free stores before you can eventually board your flight. And waiting for you at the other end? A queue for customs and immigration that look like people trying to get out of a Celine Dion concert.
READ MORE…

Fantastic New York tours from Moose Network
The Moose Network have sent us details of their upcoming New York trips for 2008 which will add to their already extensive Canadian tours which run from the awesome Rockies right across to the French part of Eastern Canada.
READ MORE…

Global Vision International in Thailand
It is difficult to know where to start because in the past 10 weeks I have had the most amazing time and sooo many experiences. One of the best things about this expedition in Thailand is that you do things and see things that you would never see if you were travelling with friends or alone. You are completely immersed in the culture and you experience the real Thailand, as opposed to experiencing the tourist side of things.
READ MORE…

Interview with a Legal Alien: Colin from Scotland
This week we interviewed Colin Neville-Roberts, a 31 year old immigrant to Australia from Scotland, who is now living in Sydney. We wanted to get a perspective of what Australia is like for people who emigrate here, what motivated them to make the move, and also what they are missing from their homeland.
READ MORE…

Amazing Phuket from $1195 for 8 nights!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 23:39:00 +0000

The latest deal from our friends at Asia Specialist Holidays takes you from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane to Phuket, Thailand including:

* Return Economy International Airfares with Thai Airways
* Return Domestic Thailand Airfares with Thai Airways
* Return Transfers from Phuket Airport to the hotel
* 8 nights at the Best Western Ocean Resort Phuket in a Superior Room
* Daily Breakfast

All this for just $1195 per person twin share.

As a special offer to Aussie Escape readers, they will upgrade you to a sea view room for an additional $20 only!

For more information, call them direct on (02) 9080 6746.

Interview with a Global Volunteer: GVI's Erica Louise

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 23:08:00 +0000

This week we interviewed Erica Louise, the Australasian Regional Manager for Global Vision International. We wanted to find out what made people volunteer, what kind of placements were available for prospective volunteers and what kinds of experiences awaited them.

AE: Why do people volunteer?
Erica: Not everyone's idea of a break overseas would be lying on beach, or shopping in Asia. In addition, working in a pub in England, or the Ski Fields in Canada is certainly not for everyone. Volunteering provides the individual with the opportunity to spend some time living with a local community, and do some good with their time away from home. Volunteering can be extremely rewarding, educational, challenging and an eye opener to the real world. It is true to say that for many volunteers it's a life changing experience.

AE: How much does it cost them?
Erica: It would depend how much the project requires to support the volunteer. Such fees cover food, accommodation, in country travel, training, support from regional offices as well as in country, and any 'leftovers' would fund the continuation of conservation, community development projects, and children's scholarships overseas.

AE: Where can they go?
Erica: Mexico, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama, Belize, Ecuador, Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Peru, Nepal, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, South Africa, Kenya, Namibia, Ghana, Rwanda, Uganda, Seychelles, Tanzania, Madagascar, Indonesia, Borneo, USA, Laos , Borneo, Zambia, Vanuatu.

AE: What kind of work do they do?
Erica: GVI provides opportunities to volunteers to fill a critical void in the fields of environmental search, conservation, climate change, education and community development.

AE: Does it work out for everyone?
Erica: Whilst some people may volunteer overseas with the intention of it being a holiday, they may be very surprised when they realise the hours are long, there are a lot of new skills to learn,, and the conditions can be very basic. GVI do our best to ensure our volunteers do not make this mistake, we ensure they are well informed about expectations prior to their placement. GVI staff members have all volunteered or travelled extensively themselves, so we can share with others exactly what to expect from our own experiences.

AE: How many volunteers do you have?
Erica: Approximately 2000 - 2500 every year from around the world.

AE: Are males and females equally represented?
Erica: We find more females book, however, we do get a fair proportion of men that apply, particularly for our marine conservation, high altitude exploration and rainforest expeditions.

AE: How long are the placements?
Erica: They start from 1 week, through to 1 year placements. A majority of people go for 4-12 weeks.

AE: What support do the volunteers get?
Erica: Volunteers receive in-country support, from our network of partners and world class field staff, from the moment they are met at the airport, to when they are taken back for their departure home. We have a 24 hour emergency phone line to our Head Office, as well as 24 hour in-country support and a comprehensive training schedule.

Prior to travel, volunteers receive pre-departure support and discounted services, including comprehensive field and training manuals, and regular contact with our office staff in Australia, the United Kingdom and North America.

AE: How old are your volunteers?
Erica: The ages range quite considerably, from 18 years through to 78 years. The most popular age bracket being 18-30 years.

If you are interested in volunteering with Global Vision International you can contact us on 1300 798 242 and we can give you more info.

The Nightmare Before Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 23:03:00 +0000

by Ben Groundwater, on loan to us from his regular column at the Sydney Morning Herald.

It's the constant queuing up that really starts to get to you.

You arrive at the airport to find 10,000 of your closest friends all trying to check in. You make it through that, and they've all beaten you to the security check.

Then there's another interminable wait to have your passport checked, and a two-hour wander through crappy duty-free stores before you can eventually board your flight. And waiting for you at the other end? A queue for customs and immigration that looks like people trying to get out of a Celine Dion concert.

And of course you get to experience all of this joy accompanied by either your own screaming children, or someone else's.

But hey, it's Christmas, so you're going to go anyway.

There are two ways to do overseas travel at Christmas time. You can either be desk-bound live-at-homer who's managed to score a few weeks off over the holiday period, or a long-time traveller who has to be reminded what month it is, let alone that it's Christmas Day.

For the desk-bound among us, Christmas can be a time to get away from the daily grind, visit some rellies (or, alternatively, get away from some rellies), and either get some sun or shoot for the fairytale white Christmas.

For the romantics (and I know this is a bit unoriginal), you just have to head to New York. Like most holidays, the Yanks take Christmas very seriously, and celebrate it with the sort of fervour that Australians would normally reserve for the afternoon game of backyard cricket.

Houses in the 'burbs are gaudily lit with decorations strewn about the garden and on the roof, while Manhattan has a magical feel about it that you can't help but be swept up it. My advice: indulge in every cliche you can. Skate hand-in-hand with someone at the Rockefeller Centre, wander around pointing at things at FAO Schwarz, take a stroll up Fifth Avenue. If you're lucky, it'll even snow.

Europe bound fairytale-chasers can thrill to the romance of Paris or Rome in winter, or spend hours wandering through the Christmas markets in Prague. Alternatively, get some peace and quiet in a tiny cabin somewhere in the Swiss Alps.

And it might be a little drearier, but London has a great energy around Christmas.

However, if you're anything like me, and you think Christmas is about as much fun as hitting yourself with a sockful of 50 cent coins, fear not: there are options. For starters, you could ditch the turkey (and the turkeys you usually hang out with) and head for warmer climes - any one of the Pacific islands would be nice.

Or if the sight of the Christmas window displays at David Jones or Myer makes you want to dig a little hole for yourself and wait for it to all go away, why not head to a non-Christian country, like, say, Morocco or India? Most people couldn't give a toss about Christmas over there - so you won't have to either.

For those already firmly ensconced overseas, however, you probably won't have the luxury of choice - wherever you end up will be your location for Christmas. In my experience, it's best to try to surround yourself with as many fellow travellers as possible. It's not much fun spending Christmas alone, but a hell of a lot spending it with a bunch of other people who are.

I've had a couple of great, if rather surreal, Christmases on the road. One I spent in the Rockies in Colorado, crammed into a little house with about 20 new friends. It all got going when Toru, a massive Maori bloke, showed up.

"What? No Christmas tree?" he said, surveying our little lounge room. "No worries!"

With that he stomped back out the door, waded through the waist-deep snow in the backyard, yanked a fairly large tree out of the ground, and brought it back to the house. A little more Christmas spirit was added.

I also spent a Christmas in Malawi - on a slightly hotter day - dressed in women's clothing, drinking a punch the consistency of rocket fuel out of a giant esky. It wasn't exactly traditional, but gee we had a good time.

And that's just it; Christmas on the road is what you make of it. If you can ignore the screaming kids, the hugely inflated prices, the insanity-inducing carols and the crazies you're spending it with (be they family or not), it can be a blast.

If not? Well, it's usually over pretty quickly.

Merry Christmas everyone.

Interview With a Legal Alien: Colin from Scotland

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 22:47:00 +0000

This week we interviewed Colin Neville-Roberts, a 31 year old recent immigrant from Scotland, who is now living in Sydney. We wanted to get a perspective of what Australia is like for people who emigrate here, what motivated them to make the move, and also what they are missing from their homeland.

Bowdo from Aussie Escape interviews Colin over a quiet pint

We spoke to Colin in the beachside suburb of Coogee where he is living.

AE: How long have you been in Australia?
Colin: 8 months now.

AE: Did you have a job before you came?
Colin: Yes, had interview during 3 week holiday, was successful and spent 3 months readying in the UK for the move

AE: Did you have a job before you came?
Colin: Yes, had interview during 3 week holiday, was successful and spent 3 months readying in the UK for the move

AE: Did you know many people before you came?
Colin: Around 10-20

AE: Did you have any last thoughts or cold feet before you left?
Colin: No, come on!

AE: How is the pay different here?
Colin: In Sydney it is equal or marginally better than Glasgow in Scotland, and although it is Sydney cost of living is marginally cheaper, primarily due to fuel and restaurant prices.

AE: Are the working conditions much different here?
Colin: Generally no but definitely have a more relaxed approach to Fridays and more fun days for staff

AE: How have people in this country received you?
Colin: Brilliant

AE: What do you miss about Scotland?
Colin: Friends

AE: What makes you homesick?
Colin: Friends
AE: What do you NOT like about Australia or Australians?
Colin: Nothing really, maybe mosquitos
AE: How have you changed since you arrived here?
Colin: More in line with Life Work Balance, healthier and more relaxed
AE: Is your move permanent?
Colin: Hope so

AE: Is anyone following you out here from Scotland?
Colin: Hope not
AE: What is your favourite Aussie saying?
Colin: She'll be right!

AE: What is your favourite Aussie beer?
Colin: Carlton Dry (think of your waste line folks)

Fantastic New York tours from Moose Network

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 22:34:00 +0000

Stephanie Rupcic from Moose Network has sent us details of their upcoming New York trips for 2008 which will add to their already extensive Canadian tours which run from the awesome Rockies right across to the French part of Eastern Canada.

Their New York tours run from June to October and will include:

* 3 nights shared accommodation right near Central Park

* 3 breakfasts

* 1 dinner

* 1 lunch

* 1 Moose t-shirt

* New York Welcome Package with maps and info

* Two Hour Harbour Cruise

* Guided Hop-On Hop Off Tour covering downtown, midtown and Harlem

* Driver and Guide Services

All of this is just $399 including taxes.

These trips will of course feature highlights such as the Empire State Building, Broadway, Wall St, China Town and lots more.

Moose Network specialises in independent travellers on tours with an emphasis on fun. Aussie Escape is proud to recommend them as a reputable tour operator in North America.

If you are interested in this or any other Canadian tours please call us on 1300 798 242 and we can give you more info.

Global Vision International Thailand

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 22:24:00 +0000

This post is from Hannah McMurray who is in Thailand with Global Vision International.

It is difficult to know where to start because in the past10 weeks I have had the most amazing time and sooo many new experiences.

One of the best things about this expedition in Thailand is that you do things and see things that you would never see if you were traveling with friends or alone. You are completely immersed in the culture and you experience the real Thailand, as opposed to experiencing the tourist side of things.

Being a teacher in Ao Luk is hard work but it really pays off. Today, for example, 10 of my students took me and the other expedition members out for the day. We went elephant trekking, had a picnic on a private beach and then went to a temple that had depictions of heaven and hell. Amazing!!

One of the best things that will always stick in my head from my time in Ao Luk is December 5^th 2007…. The Kings 80^th birthday! In Thailand this was a massive event and it took place over the course of 3 days. For 3 days straight everybody came together to celebrate, eat, sing and dance. The atmosphere was amazing and being falang (Thai for foreigner) was even more amazing as everybody wants to talk and share a part of their culture with you. One night at the festival another expedition member and myself went from meeting our students who then took us to a Thai hut to eat Oysters and whisky, then off again to try out some rice pounding, then we joined in with the orchestra of the local primary school, where we played some strange instruments. Then we went off into another hut to eat some very hot food which made my eyes stream! We then danced in a parade and ate more food!! Super snazzy fun I tell you…

The last night of the festival was the best for me as I had volunteered myself to be part of a Thai dance along with other GVI members and some students from the Non Formal Education Centre. We practiced the dance for 2 weeks before the big performance. We were due to perform in Laem Sak, a small village by the sea in Ao Luk, plus at the main celebration at the district office.

For the dance we had to wear full Thai costume which included beautiful Thai silks and jewelry, heavy duty make-up and big hair… all done by professionals. I have to say we all looked absolutely amazing and the attention we got from everybody was unreal. It was literally like being a celebrity; everyone (I mean everyone) wanted their photo with us. The experience was completely mind blowing… I know that it was an experience that I would never have had the opportunity to do anywhere else or probably ever again.

Everything that I have done and seen in Ao Luk has been pretty amazing, it has been a one off experience that I am so glad I took part in and I would recommend it to anyone who is thinking about it.

Contact Us

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 22:16:00 +0000

Privacy Policy

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 21:47:00 +0000

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Contact Us

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 21:37:00 +0000

Do you have a story idea? Would you like to advertise with us? Or do you just want to know the cheapest place to find a beer and steak in Latvia?

Call us on 1300 798 242 or email us at enquiries@aussieescape.com. One of our representatives will get back to you usually within 24 hours.

Travel Writing

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 21:29:00 +0000

Special Offers

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 21:27:00 +0000

Climate Change Posts

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Travel News

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Travel News

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 00:19:00 +0000

THIS WEEK'S POSTS:

Low Cost Easter - 3 Holiday Routes on Jetstar, Virgin Blue and Tiger Airways

Volunteering in the Seychelles

This entry comes from Howard Weir, a Global Vision International volunteer currently on a placement in the beautiful Seychelles.

So what’s it like to live in paradise?

I’ve been asked this question repeatedly by friends and family, all curious about my adventure in the Seychelles.

Australia to Europe for $500

Volunteering in Ghana, Africa with Antipodeans Abroad - Part 2

This is the second instalment from Kate Davis, a Year 12 graduate from Pymble Ladies College who spent 3 months during her gap year on an Antipodeans Abroad Year Out Program. Kate lived with a local family in Ghana doing volunteer teaching and speaks candidly about what life is like in Africa from her perspective.

Volunteering in Ghana, Africa with Antipodeans Abroad

Travel that moves you: Auschwitz Concentration Camp, Poland

Daylight broke on an appropriately dismal day in Krakow, Poland. Against the backdrop of baroque style churches, vast plazas littered with an equal mix of cafes and pigeons, soft cool rain fell impossibly from an overcast yet cloudless sky.

It was as if the sun didn't want to get up today either. Today I was visiting Auschwitz.

Low Cost Easter - 3 Holiday Routes on Jetstar, Virgin Blue and Tiger Airways

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 10:56:00 +0000

Has the introduction of Tiger Airways to the domestic market in Australia shaken up the other players in their pricing?

The crazy 5 cent sale from Jetstar held to coincide with the introduction of Tiger to the market would suggest they are a bit worried about what the newcomer might do to their stranglehold on the low-cost carrier market in this country.

We wanted to illustrate the great variation in airfares available if you look around a bit by selecting three different routes: Melbourne to the Gold Coast, Melbourne to the Sunshine Coast and Melbourne to Perth - three routes that all three compete on.

The dates we chose were around the school holidays next year, 21 March to 6 April and the prices below are for 2 adults and 2 children and include all taxes.

Melbourne to the Gold Coast

Jetstar $1672.00
Virgin Blue $1148.00
Tiger Airways $1119.60

Melbourne to the Sunshine Coast

Virgin Blue $2188.00
Tiger Airways $1359.60
Jetstar $1232.00

Melbourne to Perth

Virgin Blue $1948.00
Jetstar $1672.00
Tiger Airways $1639.60

It should be noted that some carriers may already have sold out of their really low cost airfares on this date, but it still certainly shows that it pays to shop around - or, better still, have one of our Independent Travel Brokers do the shopping around for you.

Call us or email us at enquiries@aussieescape.com and tell us where you would like to go, when, how many people will be travelling and what your budget is and we can come up with the perfect school holiday break for you.

Volunteering in the Seychelles

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 10:15:00 +0000

This entry comes from Howard Weir, a Global Vision International volunteer currently on a placement in the beautiful Seychelles.

So what’s it like to live in paradise?

I’ve been asked this question repeatedly by friends and family, all curious about my adventure in the Seychelles.

I tell them truthfully that it has been amazing. Every week has been better than the one before.

That being said, coming here is a serious life style adjustment. There are definitely some creature comforts I wouldn’t mind having (like hot water) but the complaints are few and outweighed by the rewards.

_______________________________________

The more you put in, the more you'll get out.
I know you hear this phrase all the time but
it is true.
_______________________________________

Since coming here I’ve been trained as an Emergency First Responder, a Rescue Diver, a Coral Reef Research Diver and I’ve met some amazing people. My group is getting on very well which is great because we live in very close quarters.

You get to know the other expedition members quickly, it’s impossible not to. It is also great to meet people from so many different backgrounds who all share an interest in diving and coral reefs.

The more you put in, the more you’ll get out. I know you hear this phrase all the time but it is true.

You can do and learn so much while you are here. It is beautiful here but it is not a vacation, it is much better than that. Vacations blur together and fade in memory, this is a truly memorable experience.

Aussie Escape is proud to have Global Vision International as one of our partners. They specialise in volunteer experiences all over the world and will ensure your travelling experience makes a difference.

- Volunteering in Ghana, Africa with Antipodeans Abroad

- Global Vision International Volunteers in Patagonia, South America

- Aussie Escape Image: Global Vision International Volunteers Charlotte, Mel and Nicole starting their tree nursery in Kenya

- Aussie Escape Image: Global Vision International Volunteer Cheryl taking her class outside in Mkwiro, Kenya

- Volunteering in Vanuatu - Part 2

Australia to Europe for $500

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 09:45:00 +0000

Jetstar will not discount the possibility trips from Australia to Europe could be offered for less than $500.

Airline CEO Alan Joyce told BusinessDaily that flights to Rome and Athens could be offered for less than $500 as promotional fares.

We have been talking $800, but you could see sub-$500 air fares to Europe when we do promotions, he said.

Rome and Athens are reportedly among a number of southern European cities Jetstar is considering as destinations after February 2009, when the first of 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliners will be delivered to the airline. - Travelpress travel news

Volunteering in Ghana, Africa with Antipodeans Abroad - Part 2

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 04:14:00 +0000

Antipodeans Abroad - Year Out Program

Volunteering in Ghana, Africa

Life in Ghana - Weekends Away

When we first arrived in Ghana I was frozen in a state of anxiety due to the utter chaos around us, but now we seem to slot right in - almost, our white skin does still stick out in a crowd. We bargain and negotiate our way through some full-on situations and it’s a really good feeling when you finally safely reach your accommodation, sort of an accomplishment.

Sometimes we have to scream at men, “Mem Piew” - I don’t like you. This is pretty effective at making marriage suitors and beggars leave. However “Mem Pow” which sounds very similar to “Mem Piew” means “I like you” and I will admit I accidentally said this to a man and was almost whisked away. I will just stick with “Mempe Saa” - I don’t like that, from now on to prevent any other slip ups.

We have been visiting coastal villages and resorts on our weekends. The white-sanded, palm-fringed beaches seem like tropical oases after being inland in our dusty villages all week. The mornings are spent visiting tourist destinations such as slave castles and national parks on 35m high suspension bridges. Afternoons are spent exploring the fascinating villages, each new and exciting and filled with mostly smiling people thrilled to see westerners wearing Ghanaian clothes, speaking snippets of Twi and with braids. We also chill at the very cheap but amazing beach resorts.

Last night we stayed at this beach called Kokrobite. It’s this mad hippie/rastafarian resort. All the guys have dreadlocks, wear red, yellow and green, and are pretty chilled. Think Jamaica. They are so funny and are actually really nice but it’s still good to be careful. We spent the whole day chilling on the beach. It was surreal. We were lying amongst these traditional boats and fishing nets chatting and playing with some of the village kids. I’m now a pro at their clapping games. As the sun began setting a reggae band set up and we stayed there watching the sun set and well into the night. We then slept in a massive tent on the beach for $2.50.

Apart from Kokrobite I feel really safe travelling in Ghana. The people are amazingly helpful, friendly and hospitable. People will often come up and help you. There are con artists out there so we are always careful but it’s really reassuring that people are always willing to help. We are also very careful with valuables but theft in Ghana is strongly looked down upon. If someone steals they will usually be beaten or stoned to death before the police arrive. Obrunis are pretty respected in Ghana so if someone stole from us hundreds of helpful Ghanaians would run to our aid.

Transport is sometimes hair-raising but we grit our teeth. I’ve been on a tro tro which would not pass rego in Australia, speeding along a bumpy dirt road crammed with 26 people. There was sweat from the lady next to me dripping onto my thigh. Before I knew it one final passenger had boarded and there was a basket with bloody, foul-smelling fish heads in line with my face.

On our way home from Busua - a small coastal fishing village with a strong hippy influence, I was in the back of a tro tro when the seat I was sharing with 3 big African mothers suddenly came to a crash on the floor. I then noticed the boot did not shut properly and feared we would slide to our deaths on the road behind us. When the tro tro pulled over on the side of the road due to rain I informed the driver and we decided that once the rain stopped we would find a new tro tro.

Next weekend we are going to the Volta region to climb a mountain and visit some waterfalls. It will be our second last weekend away as we will soon be leaving our families for our final 3 weeks of travel. The time has flown and I’m feeling pretty sad.

About Antipodeans Abroad:

Antipodeans Abroad as in Australian company that offers a range of global volunteer travel experiences for adults, high-school students, and university students. Participants provide much appreciated work in needy communities across Africa, Asia and South America, and return home with invaluable life experience, increased confidence and lifelong memories.

http://www.antipodeans.com.au

- Volunteering in Ghana, Africa with Antipodeans Abroad

- Global Vision International Volunteers in Patagonia, South America

- Aussie Escape Image: Global Vision International Volunteers Charlotte, Mel and Nicole starting their tree nursery in Kenya

- Aussie Escape Image: Global Vision International Volunteer Cheryl taking her class outside in Mkwiro, Kenya

- Volunteering in Vanuatu - Part 2

- Volunteering in Vanuatu – Part 1

Volunteering in Ghana, Africa with Antipodeans Abroad

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 07:11:00 +0000

This is the first instalment from Kate Davis, a Year 12 graduate from Pymble Ladies College who spent 3 months during her gap year on an Antipodeans Abroad Year Out Program. Kate lived with a local family in Ghana doing volunteer teaching and speaks candidly about what life is like in Africa from her perspective.

Life in Ghana – My First 2 Weeks

Our first week was spent in Accra and was a subtle introduction to life in dusty, hot Ghana. We stayed at a hostel - air conditioned which seems like such a luxury now we have left. We were shown around by our guide Charles, who we all became friends with, and our trusty driver Isaac (affectionately known as oh chi chi which means big crocodile).

Our week consisted of markets, traditional drumming and dancing, language lessons, the beach, and clubbing Ghana style. I cannot get sick of my surroundings as there is always something interesting going on.

The landscape is barren and dusty but scattered with coconut trees and brightly coloured houses and shops. The Ghanaians have so little yet their hearts are huge. Everywhere we go we hear “Obruni where are you going?” Obruni is a white person and means from the horizon. We shout back “Obini where are you going?” which means black person. It sounds cruel but they think it’s hilarious. A few times a day someone will tell us they would like to take us as a friend.

We have all picked up bits and pieces of Twi. The phrases “gye saa” which means “stop that” and “mempe saa”, “I don't like that”, come in handy especially when 4 men surround you saying they are going to marry you. I have now however moved into my village. It’s called Gomoa Bezedes and is tiny. It’s situated about 15 minutes out of a small town called Swedru.

My Ghanaian family is amazing and their hospitality is overwhelming. I have been given the African name Adjuia which is based on my day of birth. I have also been given a family name, a church name and a name from school but I cant pronounce them let alone remember them. I have however only just been able to work out my family as everyone that comes over is an aunt, brother or sister.

My mother is Mary. She has lots of children but I have 2 brothers called Kofi and Wofa who are 14 and 12 and I have a sister called Mena who is 11 who live with us. I then have a cousin who is 20 and her 2 children who are 4 and one week old. On Monday we are invited to a traditional naming ceremony for the baby.

Our house is one of the central homes in the village. Ours is a courtyard house which means our main living area is an outside courtyard which all of the other rooms feed off. We have a pit toilet and a bucket shower. Despite what you all might think, these are not to be feared. The bucket shower is actually refreshing in the heat. Our Mum is the best. Even though she can't speak much English, every time we come home she gives us big hugs and has food waiting. Ghanaian food is amazing.

The majority of the cooking is done outside and we also eat outside. Did I mention that we eat with our hands? A bit worried about what my manners will be like when we return. By Ghanaian standards we are too thin and our family is aiming to fatten us up. Our serving sizes are about 4 times something we would be served in Australia. When I finished all my rice yesterday Mary cheered.

She is teaching us how to cook. Yesterday we returned the favour and showed her how to make French toast. The only problem is our family doesn't let us help. They say it makes them happy to be able to help us. Every now and then I manage to convince her to let me help clear and wash plates.

We wake up at 5 every morning. Every third day we hand wash our clothes. It is pretty labour intensive but rewarding. I stand back and look at my clean clothes on the makeshift clothes line with pride. Our mum supervises and often takes over. While we wash some of the villagers come to watch and clap and laugh. Any adoption of their culture we undertake they think is great.

Yesterday at 6am a lady arrived to braid our hair. It took her 2 hours and cost us 20 0000 cedes which is about $2. Swedru, which is the nearest town, is 15km away but takes 5 minutes in a taxi and costs less than 50 cents. The alternative transport is a tro tro which is a van which can squeeze 17 people in. The roads are chaos and each time I enter a vehicle I have to shut my eyes.

Swedru is very overwhelming. The infrastructure is poor and the city is very disorderly. Along the side of the road there are gutters which can be up to 2m deep. Sewage runs freely and they are also used as rubbish bins. The smell is a little off putting to say the least but surprisingly we are getting used to it. Taxis and tro tros block the roads and the sounds of the drivers shouting their destinations adds to the chaos.

There are people everywhere carrying different products on their heads - Africans can carry anything on their heads. Africans don't really go to shops, they buy most of their stuff in markets or on the roadside. You can buy anything from fruit to stationery. Yesterday we bought 6 mangos for about 20 cents. The Ghanaians manage to eat them on the street without peeling them so we thought we would try too. To say the least it was a big mess. Each time we are in Swedru I wish to return to my family and my village.

It’s strange how easily I’ve adapted and Africa is beginning to feel like home. I definitely miss lots from Australia though. School is from 7am to 2pm and some of the local kids wait in my courtyard and we walk to school together. On my first day one girl told me that she would like to be my best friend because she likes me so very much. This week there haven’t been any classes and the students have been "cleaning the compound" which means bringing their blades to school and cutting the grass.

On Monday we will start classes. I’m excited to meet my class and am hoping they will be good.

We are also regularly visiting the local orphanage. There are about 60 kids there ranging from 1 year olds to 16 year olds. The children share two rooms and one shower and one toilet. There isn’t much food and when we are arrive we are swarmed, but all they want is hugs. It’s obvious they crave affection that every child should get from their parents. Each time I leave I have tears in my eyes because they are so happy despite their hardship. We are all scheming to find a way to fundraise for them.

Part Two of Kate's story from Ghana will appear in the next post.

About Antipodeans Abroad:
Antipodeans Abroad as in Australian company that offers a range of global volunteer travel experiences for adults, high-school students, and university students. Participants provide much appreciated work in needy communities across Africa, Asia and South America, and return home with invaluable life experience, increased confidence and lifelong memories.
www.antipodeans.com.au

.. Related Posts

- Global Vision International Volunteers in Patagonia, South America

- Aussie Escape Image: Global Vision International Volunteers Charlotte, Mel and Nicole starting their tree nursery in Kenya

- Aussie Escape Image: Global Vision International Volunteer Cheryl taking her class outside in Mkwiro, Kenya

- Volunteering in Vanuatu - Part 2

- Volunteering in Vanuatu – Part 1

Travel that moves you: Auschwitz Concentration Camp, Poland

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 07:16:00 +0000

by Nicholas Bowditch

Daylight broke on an appropriately dismal day in Krakow, Poland. Against the backdrop of baroque style churches, vast plazas littered with an equal mix of cafes and pigeons, soft cool rain fell impossibly from an overcast yet cloudless sky.

It was as if the sun didn't want to get up today either. Today I was visiting Auschwitz.

"I just don't know if i should be going out there", I had explained to the pretty Polish girl at the reception of my hostel, "I'm not Jewish and I don't even really know anyone who is."

She looked up and silently urged me to protest further. "I'm worried I might seem a bit ghoulish or like I'm trivialising all that suffering by wandering around taking photos like some war tourist."

She shook her head deliberately. "You are the type of person that we want to go out there", she said slowly and in carefully selected English. "People from Australia or New Zealand or Asia - you cannot properly understand what happened in Europe all that time ago because you are too removed from it."

I had to agree with that. When I had visited Pearl Harbor, the whole experience was a lot more profound to me because it was the Japanese and not the Nazis who had presented such a threat to my country in World War II.

"Besides", she said,"the holocaust is too big to brush away or to just try to forget. We want the whole world to never forget what happened there."

________________________________________

"The air around the entrance to the camp
was thick with both dew and an almost
palpable sense of sadness."
________________________________________

So I went. With a strange mix of curiosity and impending sadness I got on the local bus and headed slowly out of the city and into the fertile Polish countryside.

If it wasn't the site of a concentration camp where up to 4,000,000 people had been killed in less than four years, it would be a pretty spot. Very green and very quiet. The air around the entrance to the camp was thick with both dew and an almost palpable sense of sadness.

I was hit with a real foreboding as I passed through the gates and I again wondered if the girl was wrong and I had no place being there.

Once inside, I was surprised how small the camp seemed. Even when the second camp, Birkenau (just down the rail tracks) is added to it, the sheer numbers of those who were killed here is unfathomable.

Jews, Gypsies, homosexuals, transients were all transported here in box trains from all over Europe. In the beginning, they were processed, deloused, photographed and interned here for in some cases years, but at the height of the ethnic cleansing its believed that thousands were simply shipped in and exterminated.

Many of the buildings previously used as dormitories and infirmaries now house displays that attempt to give visitors a real insight into just how brutal this place was.

There are rooms literally filled to the ceiling with spectacles, shoes, even human hair that was unceremoniously taken from the corpses of the prisoners.

Rows and rows and rows of prisoners' photos, taken when they first arrived at the camp, all look desperately back at you as you walk solemnly through the corridors. There are hundreds of them - old women and men, young adults and most sadly small children, all having posed for the last photo of their short and tragic lives.

This was the venue of Dr. Josef Mengele's sadistic "medical and scientific experiments" on many of the prisoners including sets of twins as young as five years old. The twins were usually murdered after the experiment, if they survived it and their bodies were dissected.

I walked back into the compound and follow a large group of people shuffling through the rain towards the northern part of the camp where the shower blocks are, much like the prisoners would have naively done, I think to myself.

Standing outside the first of the rudimentary gas chambers I was frozen and suddenly sure I was not going inside. An old lady with a kind face and grand-motherly manner put her hand gently on my back.

"Is O.K." she says in English, which judging by her inflection was not her first language. I just nodded to her and, somehow reassured from the empathy of this stranger, I walked inside.

There were about forty people in a room that is about the size of a small motel room. There are six pipes in the roof that the prisoners believed were going to deliver them cleansing hot water as the guards had promised them.

Most of them believed this to be nothing more sinister than a communal shower block. When one group entered, the next group waited behind a row of idling trucks which the guards revved to drown out the noise of the group inside, screaming and dying.

The guide explained that there would have been at least twice as many people crammed into the room just before the Zyklon B gas fell from the roof, mixed with the ambient oxygen and surely killed them all.

Standing there, on the spot where so many people had died in such a gruesome fashion, I felt many emotions without being able to isolate just one. Fear, sadness, hopelessness, all mixed with nausea in a way that upset me like I don't think I had ever been upset before.

When I looked around the room, the mix of faces all said the same thing back to me, "How could they had done this?"

After leaving the gas chambers, the tour that I was on then moved on down the tracks to Birkenau where many more were killed. Our guide warned us that it became more graphic and more sad down there and suggested anyone who didn't want to go on should wait here in the pretty green parklands outside for the rest of the group to return.

I took him up on his invitation.

When they returned, the group recounted to me stories of even more horror with a sense of growing disbelief. One young German backpacker said to me, "How could they have done this?"

I am glad that I went. I am equally sure that I will never go back, nor will I ever go to another of the many camps spread all over eastern Europe.

Auschwitz is a solemn, reverent place. It is also a gruesome, disgusting place, but a place that I hope will always be visited by people like me, so that its unspeakable legacy will never be forgotten.

Nicholas has spent years away from his beloved Australia in a quest
to find the world's most deserted beach, best dive site and cheapest
beer. He is still on the lookout. He is an Independent Travel
Broker and editor of independent travel news resource,
Aussie Escape and has his own blog Where Is Bowdo?

How to see the best of Sydney without spending a cent

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 22:38:00 +0000

Sydney can be a very expensive city. You can easily spend $100 a day or more as a visitor. But it doesn't have to be that way.

I am about to give you loads of great things to do in this vibrant city that will fill your days but not empty your pockets. I have put together a list of Sydney's top 15 attractions that won't cost you anything to experience them.

15. Wander around The Rocks

The Rocks is the oldest part of Sydney and also the most visited. This is where the 10 square rigged sailing ships of the First Fleet landed in 1788 with their cargo of 1400 men, women and children - more than half of them convicts.

The Rocks is an easy, 10 minute stroll from the CBD. The main entry point is George St., which was also the first street in Australia.

This part of Sydney features the oldest remaining European structure in Sydney (Dawes Point Battery built in 1791, as well as great little pubs, open air markets on weekends and some of the best restaurants and cafes in Sydney.

14. Walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge

While a private company charges a small fortune to walk over the top of the arch of this iconic bridge, you can still get breath-taking and beautiful views from the road level while walking across the pedestrian walkway on the eastern side.

With views of Circular Quay, The Opera House, Fort Denison, Middle Harbour and North Sydney everywhere you look, this stroll should take about 30 minutes depending on how many times you stop to take that fantastic photo.

You can access the pedestrian walkway on the bridge from Milsons Point in the north or from The Rocks on the southern side.

13. Take in the Art Gallery of New South Wales in The Domain

Open from 10am to 5pm every day except Good Friday and Christmas Day (and until 9pm on Wednesdays) this is the premier museum and collection of art in Sydney. With over 40 formal exhibitions every year, artworks started to be purchased for this gallery back in 1874.

The gallery is situated in The Domain which is adjacent to the Royal Botanic Gardens, an easy 5 minute walk from Macquarie St. or Hyde Park.

12. Wander around Darling Harbour

One of the newer precincts in the inner city, Darling Harbour really came into its own during the Olympics that were held in Sydney in 2000.

Now one of the major tourist attractions on its own, Darling Harbour features hundreds of shops, bars, restaurants, cafes and Tumbalong Park with its ampitheatre and free music and events held most weekends.

11. Museum of Contemporary Art, The Rocks

This museum is the sole gatherer of contemporary art from across the country and also from around the world in the whole of Australia. While some pieces might have you scratching your head, others are beautiful, powerful and creative.

The Museum is situated at Circular Quay West in The Rocks and offers guided tours Monday to Friday at 11am and 1pm and on the weekends at 12 noon and 130pm.

10. Parliament House

Members of the public can sit and watch the leaders of the state squabble, bicker, scream at and berate each other during sitting sessions of the parliament.

There are conducted tours (booking essential) which run for 60-90 minutes and give a very details history of the building and the different governments over the years.

Parliament House is on Macquarie St. and is open from 9am to 5pm every weekday.

9. Sydney's Beaches

With more than 30 world class beaches to choose from, beachlovers are spoilt for choice in Sydney - and they are all cost absolutely nothing!

The beaches are basically split into three geographic sections: the Northern Beaches including Manly and Avalon where the soap opera Home and Away is filmed, the Eastern Suburbs Beaches including the famous Bondi Beach, and the Southern Beaches like Wanda and Cronulla.

8. Government House

Built between 1837 and 1845, the Gothic Revival architecture of Government House makes the building appear even more stately than it already is. Built to house the Governor of NSW and also used for visiting royalty and heads of state, the mansion is filled with beautiful furnishings from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Sometimes the house is closed when the Governor hosts Vice-Regal functions but otherwise it is open Friday to Sunday from 1030am to 3pm for guided tours only. The spectacular grounds (perhaps the best part of the site) are open daily from 10am to 4pm.

7. Queen Victoria Building

Known by Sydney-siders as simply the QVB, this magnificent example of Romanesque architecture was completed in 1898. The building was erected on the site of the former markets and was dedicated to the long-reigning English monarch.

It started its life as a concert hall and has since had many different incarnations: warehouses, display rooms, offices and most recently it has been remodelled to house many boutique retail stores. It is worth a look inside for the elegant vibe and beautiful ornate interior.

6. Centennial Park

This huge park very close to the centre of Sydney was opened in 1888 and was the site where the Federation of Australia was first declared in 1901. Once inside the vast and peaceful parklands, it is easy to see why it attracts more than five million visits every year.

Regularly the venue for concerts and other large displays, the original traffic of horse and carriages has been replaced by the legion of joggers, cyclists, horse riders and wanderers that visit the park each day.

5. St. Mary's Cathedral

The largest Catholic Cathedral in the country is also one of the most spectacular and peaceful. The foundation stone was laid by Governor Macquarie in 1821, and construction of the present-day building was completed in 1928.

The cathedral is open every day and guided tours are conducted for free every Sunday after 1030am.

4. Australian National Maritime Museum

The Australian National Maritime Museum is located in Darling Harbour.

The Museum Ticket costs nothing and includes access to all the galleries and the special exhibitions, the Maritime Heritage Centre and Wharf 7, the North Whard and Marina where the small fleet of historic vessels are moored and the relocated Cape Bowling Green Lighthouse. The Museum is open from 930 to 5pm every day except Christmas Day.

3. Sydney Opera House

Probably the most recognisable landmark in Sydney for the last 30 years, the Opera House contains several concert and opera halls and has daily performances by some of the most acclaimed performers in the world.

Guided tours have a small fee but you can wander around most of the interior and all of the exterior for nothing any day of the week.

2. Bondi to Coogee Walk

This popular walk is probably the best way to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the beach life as well as take in spectacular views and get some sun at the some time!

The walk begins at Bondi Beach and head south around the headland to Tamarama Beach, then Bronte Beach, past Waverley Cemetery with its dramatic cliff-side location, Clovelly Beach and then to Coogee.

The walk isn't physically difficult and there are plenty of places along the way to have a swim and cool off.

1. The Royal Botanic Gardens

In my opinion, the single most underrated tourist attraction in Sydney also has no charge.

The Royal Botanic Gardens are open every day of the year. They have a strange serenity and silence about them despite being literally in the middle of this bustling city.

Guided walks with no cost take place at 1030am every day and go for about 90 minutes.

The Gardens encourage visitors to "Please walk on the grass! We also invite you to smell the roses, hug the trees, talk to the birds and picnic on the lawns" and I would encourage you to also. Every time I wander through the Gardens I am amazed at how beautiful (and empty of visitors) the place is. Check them out - you won't be disappointed.

So there you go. You CAN have fun and see lots of great things in Sydney without paying huge admission fees everywhere. So but your walking shoes on, take your camera and get amongst it!

Global Vision International Volunteers in Patagonia, South America

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 22:25:00 +0000

This is the latest update from the Global Vision International volunteers in Patagonia, South America.

Weather has been crazy a few days this last week, with snow, high winds and a lot of rain, but apart from that, spring is coming, and the weather is getting nicer (sometimes).

The second roundup of the Guanaco project worked out well, the team helped round up and sheered close to 70 animals. The project was a full success and all people involved were sad to say goodbye to the friends they made up there in the last 10 days.

Having finished the Guanaco project in the north, the group has arrived in Lanin national park after 2 days on the road, in the middle of the week. Stephen Meyer, GVI’s Country Director, joined the Expedition Member (volunteer) group for 4 days in their base camp in Tromen, helping them start the wild boar transects. Hernan, the local scientist of this project joined us and helped with methodologies and answered any questions about conservation in the park and the animals there in general.

Due to the exceptionally cold winter, some of the transects are in areas that are still covered by about 1.5 meters of snow, making work very hard at the moment. Quite a lot of wild boar signs were found on the transects we completed, topped by a relatively fresh wild boar which was most likely killed by a puma, just about 500m away from the camp.

The kayak phase started with heavy winds and rain/snow storms. Everybody survived the rescue drills having to go for an intentional swim after capsizing the boat in the icy glacier water of the lake.

After sitting out the stormy second day at the camp, the group was finally able to go on an overnight trip along the amazing shores of the many islands in the lake.

Three days ago they transferred to the base of Cerro Tronador and made their way up to Refugio Meiling where they were introduced to self arrest with an ice ax and glacier travel techniques. They are planning to attempt the argentine summit in the next 48 hours, depending on wind and snow conditions.

Volunteer with Global Vision International

With over 100 personnel in 30 countries GVI supports many of the most critical conservation and humanitarian projects around the globe. Join challenging expeditions as diverse as marine conservation in Mexico and the Seychelles, wildlife conservation in the Amazon, Costa Rica, South Africa and Kenya, community development in Mexico and high altitude exploration in Patagonia.

Aussie Escape is proud to have Global Vision International as one of our partners. They specialise in volunteer experiences all over the world and will ensure your travelling experience makes a difference.