from a traveller's desk.....

Rome Backpacking Travel

2013-05-04T20:05:00.000-07:00

Written by Sarah Crompton

Rome is the Italian capital and one of the most affordable places to visit. It is a city full of cultural history that dates back to 753 BC. Getting around by foot in Rome is easy as the city is divided in clear blocks.

Affordable accommodation in Rome
Affordable hotels and hostels are available with no compromise to tranquility and comfort. Many are located near popular attraction sites and public transport networks. Travellers wishing to travel cheap in groups have been considered in many of these establishments.
There are numerous hostel that offer modern facilities such as theme parties, free WiFi connection, swimming pools, jacuzzis, beach volley ball and poolside bars with DJs. Some pleasant examples are: Plus Roma, The Youth Station Hostel, Hotel Kennedy and Des Artistes.

Attractions in Rome
The attractions in Rome are numerous as can be discerned from its architecture which is filled with history and culture making it the most beautiful ancient city in the world. Most of them don't charge admission fees. Some of these are: The St. Peter Basilica, Chapel of Art Gallery, the
Fountain, the flight of stairs and the public square, The Capitoline Museum and the Piazza del Campidoglio public square, watch a match between the A.S. Roma and S.S. Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico, the Pantheon, Rome Time Machine, The Teatro dell'Opera di Roma.

Shopping in Rome
Back packers have a wide variety of shopping venues to choose from that are strewn all over the city streets. These include the shopping gallery at the Galleria Alberto Sordi building and the streets where the Via Veneto and Via del Babuino buildings are located. These offer shops, bookstores and boutiques.

Finding affordable food in Rome
Eateries in Rome for backpackers are plenty. These offer delicious Italian and interntional cuisine at affordable rates. Eateries in Rome for backpackers are plenty with examples like: Navonna Notte, Piazza san Callisto, Aristocampo, Il Simeto, Sfizio pizza and Birrera peroni.

Pubs and hangout places in Rome
Nightlife in Rome is active with many pubs that offer back packers ideal spots to enjoy their evenings. A lot of tourist organizations organize events known as Pub Crawls which offer opportunities to meet other tourists from the world over while unwinding at the comfort of a good drink.

Good example of affordable pubs in Rome are . . . . .
Anima, Scholars Lounge, the Drunken Ship, Sloppy Sam's, La Botticella, Friends Art Cafe, the cheap bar, Shanti, Trinity College, Alexanderplatz and Metaverso. For those who do not partake in clubbing or alcohol intake, the city offers spectacular views from the lighting of the churches and monuments. These are splendid leisure walking opportunities and photography moments for visitors to take home.

Travelling to Rome from outside countries is easy as there are numerous airports that have daily flights to the city. Rome has an elaborate transport system that is composed of trains, buses and taxi cabs.

Review: "When in Rome, Do What the Romans Do" at the Victor Emmanuel II Monument

2013-04-28T19:04:00.000-07:00

This is one of those things that we have to be aware when travelling. One of a

series of observations and reviews on my trip to Rome in Italy. The Do's and Don'ts I would say. There will be more coming after this.

Visiting Rome can be a dream come true. You must be thinking only what has been written and what you have read in travel books and brochures. More often than not, you are collecting information about the things to do, must-see places and all the good things about Rome.

In this blog, you will get all the travel tips you need in each of the pages, whether good or bad. It is because, this writer believes that aside from preparing your itineraries, you need to do a research on what's going on in your destination, how to deal with the local people and what to do when you meet some kind of challenges. You cannot deny it, things happen at the least expected moment.

In Rome, the Victor Emmanuel II monument is one of those attractions that I do not want you to miss. A structure of white marble monument dominating the Piazza Venezia and overlooking great views of the city. Inspite of its beauty, there is something you have to remember when you are climbing the famous steps.

This time, I have to say it the other way around, "When in Rome, Don't Do What the Roman's Don't!"

Yes, DON'T!. Do not make a mistake of sitting on the steps of the Victor Emmanuel II Monument no matter how tired climbing its large flight of stairs, or no matter how you feel it is more artistic taking pictures while sitting. On the contrary, the Italian military officers manning or safeguarding the monument think otherwise. They will ask you to move your **tt out of the steps. I have witnessed two incidents on a very short stay in this structure. For whatever reason, nobody knows. I did not see any sign at the foot of the monument to this effect. If there is, it should be posted on strategic location.

In fairness to the officers and the regulations of the city, let us abide with the rules. I thought, maybe, standing in front of the monument where unknown soldiers tombs is being housed, will show our respect to them. You have no time to rest and sit or your tour guide must have given or warned you on this.

Let us enjoy the Steps, and keep on standing!

Best Way to Travel Around Sri Lanka

2013-04-24T21:14:00.001-07:00

Written by: Sanjeewa Padmal Punchihewa
Sri Lanka is a small island in the Indian Ocean with very good road network including many main roads and large number of smaller roads. People of Sri Lanka also enjoy the convenience of highways.

Average road condition in the island is satisfactory but there can be traffic jam in major cities such as Colombo, Kandy and Gampaha due to increasing number of vehicles. There are many ways of travelling around the country during your holiday in Sri Lanka and some of them are discussed below.

Hiring a Private Vehicle in Sri Lanka
Hiring a private vehicle with a driver is the best and most safe option to travel around the island for foreign travellers. It can be hired for a day or several weeks depending on the requirement. It might be the best option when it comes to doing a round tour in Sri Lanka.

Most hotels have their own fleet of vehicles with drivers for in-house guests and you can book a vehicle with your hotel. Otherwise, book a vehicle and a chauffeur with a travel agent as this is the best and stress-free option to explore the country. You can save lot of time because these drivers are well aware of the attractions in the country. The chauffeurs employed by travel agents are well trained and knowledgeable about the country and its people. These drivers are required to have a permit from the state authority for tourism in order to work as a chauffeur guides.

You need to hire a driver with national tourist board license if you want to have accurate information about the country. Their knowledge of English and other languages is a plus.

Most holiday makers prefer to hire and use this type of vehicles for their round tours of
the island.

Should I Hire a Self-Drive Car?
There are many companies where you can rent vehicles while in Sri Lanka. You need to have an international driving license and the passport to rent a car. The company may require cash deposit in some cases.

I cannot recommend a foreigner to drive a hired car. Sri Lanka drivers have their own set of rules on the road that most tourists are not familiar with. Sri Lanka has left hand drive traffic but drivers overtake other vehicles on both left and right sides. They usually do not check for the oncoming traffic or obey the traffic lights. The behaviour of drivers are changing fast in Sri Lanka as to the traffic rules. The increase in number of road accidents prompted the government to add more police patrolling the road. This measure help minimize the damage caused by vehicles on the road all over Sri Lanka.

Should I use a Taxi?
Hiring a taxi is advisable if you need the vehicle for a short journey. It is the easiest way to arrange a vehicle in Sri Lanka as you can just make a call and have it within a short period of time.

Unlike other type of vehicles, taxis do charge the waiting fee, therefore, it is not a good choice if you leave the vehicle parked during the journey. Taxi drivers are not a source of accurate information about the island and cannot act as your guide. This is for the reason that they are not trained as such.

The rate to hire a taxi depends on the company. The basic rate if 45 Rs and can go up for added features.

Should I use other type of Transport?
There are many other options to travel in Sri Lanka other than what is mentioned earlier.
Buses, trains, inland flights and Tuk Tuk are some of the popular transport for tourists. Tuk Tuk is a mini vehicle with open sides and can be a good solution for a short trip but is not a convenient way to travel.

Hiring a motorcycle is also an alternative means of transport in Sri Lanka but there is more risk due to the driving habit of Sri Lankan drivers. You can hire a motor bike if you want to see more of the island but you have to be extra careful to avoid accident.

Buses and trains are not very convenient and you have to allow more time to reach your destination. They are cheaper than other means of transportation. Inland flight is another option if you you have a hectic schedule. Flying is the best and quickest way of reaching your destination.

You will be reading more of Sri Lanka as I continue writing in this blog. Read my articles for additional information on places to go to make your holiday in Sri Lanka memorable.

Happy travels!

Dubai: Etihad Opens Travel Mall ~ To Become World's Best Travel Company

2013-04-20T10:21:00.000-07:00

Etihad Airways has opened the new Etihad Travel Mall, its flagship one-stop travel retail and check-in facility in Dubai.

Etihad Travel Mall - Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The Etihad Travel Mall offers, under one roof, everything guests need to plan, book and travel with the airline. Travellers are able to purchase a ticket, check-in for a flight, drop off baggage and board an Etihad Express luxury coach bound for Abu Dhabi International Airport.

After checking in at Etihad Travel Mall, passengers can simply proceed to immigration and security on arrival at the airport.

Source: Asia Travel Tips

Notes

You will be reading regularly in this blog, travel news from well-travelled places in the Middle East and the world as a whole. Notice brief information written here. For your reading convenience, you may find further information from the Source indicated above.

The purpose of this is for you, fellow travellers to be aware on what to expect in your destination. This will be of great help in preparing your travel plan.

The Water Wonderland of the 1000 Islands in Kingston

2013-04-16T21:20:00.001-07:00

Have you been to the 1000 islands in Kingston, Ontario CANADA?

Recently, I did......

1000 Islands in Kingston Ontario Canada ~ Notice the only house in one of the islands
See more photos below.....

....and it is an experience beyond compare. Do you know that going to Kingston is just a little over 2 hours from Toronto where you can take a cruise to the the wonder of Kingston ~ the famous 1000 Islands? It is the highlight of my trip to the historical city though there are other attractions that you must see.

Not too many people know that the city of Kingston is called by the nickname "Limestone City" merely because many heritage buildings constructed with the use of local limestone.

Book a train trip to Kingston at viarail.ca. Travelling by train from Toronto's Union Station to Kingston saves time and money, besides, you don't have to worry about the traffic and the weather. You will be sitting comfortably, and yes, you can take advantage of WiFi connection in both business and economy class trains.

There are many ways of travelling in and around Kingston. Upon arrival, you can choose from the public transportation available, ferries, cabs, the historic tour shuttle or by renting a car. The latter is recommended so that you can explore the city at your own pace. Find the parking space which is available adjacent to the City Hall located at the corner of Ontario and Brock Streets.

Travelling to Kingston by boat is another great option. There are a number of marina servicing even a short-stay docking in the summer season. The boat that you choose and the outings that you plan can be relaxing and fun full of excitement. Collins Bay Marina is a source of services that will make your boating experience a pleasure.

Let's go back to 1000 islands!

It is an international tourist destination on both sides of Canada and the United States. The islands that is part of Canada are in the province of Ontario and in New York for the United States. There are nearly 2000 islands all in all ~ 1864 islands to be exact. Further to Wikipedia, an island to be counted as one should be greater than 1 square foot and above water level year round. Moreover, an island supports at least one living tree. Yes, this is a very good information for those who don't know.

I want you to see some of the islands, big and small. I want you to know exactly what I have seen and if you like, visit the city of Kingston or the town of Gananoque. Both places can be your place of stay and your point of departure to this fascinating sail. Enjoy the photos that I am sharing with you. I want you to feel the cold breeze of the the wind on the top deck of the cruise ship embracing the sound of the live entertainment complimenting the scenery. It is important to know that music and food are available while cruising.

It is an amazing view to see the small islands that give life to the major communities of the 1000 islands region. It passes along the Saint Lawrence River to the shores of Lake Ontario. You will see exactly from the map below the cities and towns on both Ontario and New York that you may possibly be passing through. It varies on the type of cruise you are booking.

History tells us that Kingston is a former national capital of Canada and has many national historic sites to name here. For the benefit of my readers who plan to visit Kingston after reading my blog, I am giving you a list of attractions that you may be interested to discover. You can spend three nights or more on other things to do while in the city. Some of which are; Kingston City Hall, St. Mary's Cathedral, Kingston Marina, Kingston Waterfront, Museum Ship Alexander Henry, Haunted Walk of Kingston, Confederation Tour Trolley, Historic Walking Tours and Fort Henry, to name a few.

To give you an idea on what to see in the 1000 islands and in the city of Kingston, I am posting some photos for your enjoyment.

If you'd been to Kingston and know some other places of interest that is not included here, you may share it with our fellow travellers by leaving comments. Please remember that your remarks are important to this blog.

Kingston City Hall

Kingston Marina

Kingston Fire Department

Kingston Waterfront

and these are some of the islands.......

1000 Islands - Photos by Freddie

HiOporto Travellers of Oporto, PORTUGAL

2013-04-09T23:01:00.001-07:00

26. Featured Travellers

Hi Oporto

Journalism Students : Travellers

L to R: Jorge, Isadora, Luis, Rita, Diogo O, Sara, Tiago and Diogo A.

(Oporto, PORTUGAL)

“The City of Oporto welcomes you with arms wide open”

I made a little twist in featuring our travellers to add flavour to our usual write-up. I have invited not one traveller but eight.....yes, you read it right folks!

Eight talented University of Oporto Journalism students joined hands to make waves in promoting the city that they call their own.

But, where is Oporto?

This city is in Northern Portugal and is probably not as famous as the capital Lisbon but it has been registered as a World Heritage site in 1996 according to Wikipedia.

I must tell you that inviting a traveller to be featured and share travel experiences is not an easy task. To have one, it takes a couple of weeks to finalize the details.

Thanks goes to Diogo Azeredo, the spokesperson of the group, for making the interview possible for each and every member.

The team writes articles in their blog on a daily basis reaching 12000 views and 600 followers on Facebook in just few weeks on the web. Let's congratulate the team on being awarded the "Blog of the Week" by the official tourist portal of Oporto. This leaves no doubt that they are the best at this early stage of the project. What an accomplishment!

Each of the members has travelled extensively in all parts of Oporto. They all have knowledge of the city and are willing to provide an up-to-date information to help you on your trip to Portugal.

Though their focus is in Oporto, they're fascinated by the idea of travel ~ discovering different tradition, meeting local people, doing something fun and adventurous, experiencing the cultures and witnessing the festivities. It all sounds so exciting to them.

They're determined to experience the world and all of the wonders that are out there for exploring.

So let's welcome the lads from Oporto and we shall surely learn a lot from their areas of "expertise!"

Here they are:

Diogo Azeredo ~ Portugal

Diogo Oliveira ~ Spain, France, Italy, Belgium, Luxembourg, Cuba, Mexico, Jamaica, Dominican Republic and Cape Verde

Isadora Faustino ~ Spain, Belgium, England and Italy

Jorge Oliveira ~ Spain and Venezuela

Luis Martins ~ Spain and France

Rita Gordo ~ Ireland, Tunisia, Spain Cambodia, China, Japan, Vietnam, Singapore, Kenya, France, Canada, USA, Germany, Estonia, Croatia, Romania, Bulgaria, Finland, Russia, Sweden, Peru, Galapagos, Dominican Republic, Egypt, Australia and New Zealand

Sara Goncalves ~ Spain, England and Cuba

Tiago Duraes Moreira - Spain and France

I am sure you want to know more about the team and their amazing city.

HiOporto team invites you to follow their journey and discover the best that their historical city has to offer.

Follow their blog. It's simply called HiOporto.

It is with great honour to have the HiOporto team a part of our travel blog.

Here is their story.....

* * * * *

Flag of Portugal

Travel Story: HiOporto, travelling inside our City.

For most people travelling is about departures. Taking a plane to the furthest place from what we call home sounds adventurous and sometimes unreachable. It's all about new scenarios, different cultures and manners, typical gastronomy, outstanding landscapes and monuments, huge historical sites and buildings and privileged contact with Nature in its every shape and living being. Crossing boundaries is the best way to get new perspectives and maybe to create our own one, but we know one thing for sure: sometimes all we need is to look to what we already have and present that to a world full of travellers just as hungry of exploring new places as we are. That's what we've done by creating and cherishing this project about our city, Oporto.

You may be asking what's so special about Oporto. The answer is quite simple and comes with a question mark: what is not special about it?

Ribeira

First, do you know Portugal? We are that small country on the southwest corner of Europe. We are recently under a lot of pressure because of economic and financial crisis but not all news are bad. You might not know but Portugal is number one on the list of world top destinations for 2013. On the north of the country, Oporto was also distinguished, winning the 2012 title for Best European Destination.

Apart from the prizes, the essence of Oporto is based on its history and authenticity. We don't intend to become what we are not and staying true to our origins is something that's within Oporto's spirit. Wandering by the narrow and abrupt alleyways can always lead to a different picture of the city. Coming by and not listening to our popular slang is like missing a big part of our identity that you can't find in photographs and postcards. And of course, we can't forget what most people come here for: the famous Port Wine which cellars are always on the list of "what to do and where to go".

Pracas dos Leoes

Although we have a Historical Centre designated World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO (that you must visit), Oporto doesn't live in the past and there is young blood running through our streets. Arterial routes like Miguel Bombarda represent that new and audacious side of our city that might not be highlighted by some old and conventional travel guides.

Culture has new forms of expression nowadays; however, Oporto can't deny its ancient influences materialized, for example, in the wide catalogue of baroque architecture. You just have to look around to see one of its major symbols: Torre dos Clérigos. Here, step after step you'll get closer to the best panoramic ever, a live and 360º interactive image of the city. In Clérigos, the way up is not made of a fast elevator which takes you to highest floor of an incredible building in which top there's transparent glass all over. We have no intention to compete with Tokyo Tower or maybe Auckland Tower, for instance (great too, of course). Here is not about the hugeness of the construction itself, it's about charm, detail and man's history.

Miguel Bombarda

History doesn't belong only with monuments though. At night, Oporto is not different from many other big cities around the world and makes history by gathering different stories in one particular place: Galerias de Paris. In a city centre mainly inhabited by elder residents, at night this is young territory and the multiple voices are louder than music.

Talking about music, Oporto has its own "stage" and here the design and architecture don't recall the old times. Casa da Música is a new and modern attraction which everyone wants to see. Compared to Guggenheim Museum, in Bilbao, it is the only local in Portugal 100% dedicated to music, whether in terms of spectacles or in terms of musical formation.

Leaving behind our big auditorium, there's another song that may follow you during your stay. The sound of the seagulls is quite a signature of our city and that combined with the river sounds at Ribeira is just the perfect scenario to enjoy the beautiful landscape and to switch on the stress free mode.There are a lot of options to have a meal or maybe just have a drink while you are absorbing this unique atmosphere.

Fotografia

At night, the magic feeling is tremendous and the lights give another dimension to the outlines of this genuine city.

This is yours to witness and experience, somewhere in your travel marathon we hope.

You'll read more from us soon.

Say Hi to Oporto (hioporto.blogspot.com)

Our home. Your next destination.

* * * * *

Are you a traveller who would like to share your travel story with our blog and our readers? Then, I'd love to hear from you!
Please email me at fromatravellersdesk@gmail.com

Related Blogs:
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Featured Traveller #2 Macit from Istanbul TURKEY
Featured Traveller #3 Aida from Manila PHILIPPINES
Featured Traveller #4 MichaelW from Brooklyn New York USA
Featured Traveller #5 Marie from Sydney AUSTRALIA
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Featured Traveller #7 Jeff from Winnipeg Manitoba CANADA
Featured Traveller #8 Noreen from Cologne GERMANY
Featured Traveller #9 Armie from Manila PHILIPPINES
Featured Traveller #10 Nelieta from Cordoba ARGENTINA
Featured Traveller #11 Bojo from Quezon City PHILIPPINES

Featured Traveller #12 Esmat from Kabul AGHANISTAN

Featured Traveller #13 Cris from Valenzuela City PHILIPPINES
Featured Traveller #14 Jeroen from Hoogeveen The NETHERLANDS

Featured Traveller #15 Angel from Iloilo City PHILIPPINES

Featured Traveller #16 Zara from Kuala Lumpur MALAYSIA

Featured Traveller #17 Kwan from Bangkok THAILAND

Featured Traveller #18 Jorn Eriksson from Oslo NORWAY

Featured Traveller #19 Cecille from Glasgow SCOTLAND

Featured Traveller #20 Marysia from Warsaw POLAND

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Watch for these blogs!
They all have been travelling for many years and I can guarantee that all of them have travel tips that all of us can learn and benefit from. I have to thank all other fellow travellers who have responded to my invite. I will definitely publish your stories as soon as I have completed the details.

6 Things to Do in the Historic Sultanate of Brunei

2013-04-06T23:08:00.004-07:00

It is high time to blog about countries less travelled and seldom make it to a tourists' itinerary. One good example is the tiny country of Brunei or commonly known as Brunei Darussalam as its official name. It is situated in north west part of Borneo, with the South China Sea to the north and State of Sarawak surrounds other side. My one-week of stay in the city of Bandar Seri Begawan gave me a good picture of a tiny but oil-rich country. It's been quite a while when I first travelled to Brunei and things has slight change since then.

The country of Brunei is so small that you can enjoy the place in so short period of time. Of course, that will depend on what you want to see. If you expect a night life, then,

forget coming to this country. There is no life at night I am telling you just now, besides alcohol is prohibited here. One thing sure, there's a lot more things to do that can be interesting to some. I, for one will be coming back to find out what has changed or improved and what new things that I can find.

The places that really amazed me are the ones that I believe are unique and can only be found in Bander Seri Begawan. Here is an updated information on the places and things you can do while in Brunei.

1. Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque

The structure and designs are amazing from the outside view. I have seen mosques in

many countries but this one is truly captivating with its dramatic sharp angles of

the three-arc entrance. It can make a deep impression to a devotee just by entering

this unique work of art. Go find the mosque on a lagoon near the famou Brunei River.

2. Kampung Ayer

This is a water village situated along the banks of the Sungai Brunei where people

lived thousand of years ago. Kampung Ayer is the largest of its kind in the world. It is

adjacent to the Brunei's capital and home to thousands of Bruneians. Buildings are

constructed on stilts with wooden walkways above the Brunei River. I don't want you
to miss this water village dubbed as the 'Venice of the East" by some.

Remember that the village is a long stretch of more than 35 kilometres of small villages
linked together so you must be spending many hours exploring the buildings comprising
mostly of dwellings, restaurants, shops, schools, mosques and a hospital.

3. Jerudong Theme Park

This is a good place to relax and have picnic. A huge playground in the suburb
to enjoy by going around and experience the rides in this disney-like attraction.
The park is initially built for family use of the Sultanate of Brunei and open free to
residents and tourists alike in its first few years of operation, however, it is now
charging admission fee for the last couple of years. Great place for kids as the park
opened more attractions and rides for the enjoyment of the whole family. I would
advice you to come to the park late in the afternoon and stay up until midnight to
experience the evening when the fabulous lights are on. Jerudong Park is
approximately 15 kilometres from the city centre which is around 20 minutes drive
to the park.

4. Chinese Taoist Temple

A Chinese temple in Brunei can be found in Bandar Seri Begawan. Its design
of loud colour of red made it so distinctive and stand out among other
structures around it. A typical Chinese ambiance with its elaborate design
and colour. The roof, painted in green at the time of my visit has
unique style and very chinese indeed. So, there you go. If you plan a
visit to the Chinese temple, you can probably be busy strolling around its
vicinity. Check it out.

5. Typical Bruneian House not Found in Kampung Ayer

I am going to share with you how some houses in Brunei looks like. The traditional
houses are the Longhouse, Boat House, and the Farm House.

The one I am showing here is a bit modern and quite big, spacious and is complete
with big kitchen, receiving room and a couple of bedrooms. You will see that it has
only the top floor. There is no first floor but rather posts that hold the upper floor
and have exposed and enclosed stairs. The exposed stairs goes straight to the
kitchen and the enclosed one goes to the receiving room. You will see a car
parked under the house. Houses like this, is generally comfortable and the
breeze is fresh.

I miss the excellent atmosphere in Brunei. I especially like this house where I stayed
as it is away from other houses. It is a typical Brunei house which is different from
the rest of the world.

6. Brunei Museum

An incredible site located in Kota Batu in Bandar Seri Begawan. The Brunei Museum

sits on the Brunei River which is about 6 kilometres from the city centre.
You will find a collection of artworks depicting the culture of Brunei with
those glasswares, ceramics and jewelries not to mention those military artifacts.
If you are into museum, this place is not to be missed.

There are other things that you need to know before proceeding to Bandar Seri Begawan.
Downtown is surrounded by water but streets are wide and safe. You will be allowed to enter mosques only after prayer times and when properly dressed.

This writer on the street of BSB

It is easy to go around BSB. Buses, water taxis and land taxis are accessible at low fares. Public buses are comfortable and clean though the service ends early at 6:00 p.m. All buses begin and end service at the bus terminal in Jalan Cator.

There are other places of interest I have not mentioned that may enrich your experience. Add the following to your itinerary if you still have time to spend in BSB. These are, Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, Istana Nurul Iman Palace, Royal Regalia Exhibition Hall and the night market of Pasar Gadong. Taking a scenic boat ride around the water village is recommended to observe the daily livelihood of residents of Kampung Ayer. Remember that you can have this experience only in Bandar Seri Begawan. So, don't miss this experience of a lifetime.

Gorgeous Vistas of Montreal ~ Canada's Best that You do not Want to Miss!

2013-03-17T22:13:00.000-07:00

I have explored the city of +Montreal a couple of times. It's pretty cool out there. It is situated in the south of Canada’s Quebec province and framed between its famed peak, +Mont Royal and the +St Lawrence River. It is located only 37 miles (60 km) from the country’s border with the U.S.A. So, if you are travelling to the U.S., you may want to come by in this Canadian city.

Notre Dame Cathedral of Montreal

+Montrealers speak French at home but language is not a hindrance to enjoy your stay as most locals also speak the English language. And it is true, Montreal is one of the world’s largest French-speaking cities located on a largely English speaking continent.

Montreal has its multicultural population just like Toronto, however, it has much to offer for tourists in the form of more than 30 treasure filled museums, year round cultural events and festivals like the Fête des Neiges, the International Jazz Festival and the Film Festival.

Like any urban metropolis, Montreal offers a plethora of shopping opportunities. It is equipped with several shopping locales like Crescent Street for hip boutiques and cafes, Rue Sherbrooke for luxury goods stores, art galleries and the famed Holt Renfrew department store, and the Rue Ste-Catherine and Rue St-Paul in Vieux-Montreal. If your visit to Montreal is to shop, the excellent venue is in Rue Saint-Catherine. It is over 11 kilometres long so you can imagine that there is a lot going on in this street. That would mean you will have a lot of walking and shopping to do.

Located within the city centre is the underground pathways that extend over 18.5 miles and host offices, apartment buildings, stores, hotels, restaurants, cinemas, concert halls and metro stations. This subterranean city shields both locals and visitors from the cold winter as it renders the city accessible during the harsh climate.

Old Town Montreal

If you are concerned about the environment and passionate about living ‘green’ then Montreal’s famous attraction the +Biosphere should be regarded as a must do on your itinerary. This museum and exhibition hall is housed in the world’s largest geodesic dome, which was erected in the city during Expo ’67. The Biosphere includes displays that highlight the effect of fluctuating water levels on human kind amongst other interactive exhibits that aim to make the visitor aware of the major environmental issues that plague us today. The highly interactive exhibits are sure to interest children as well and a visit to the Biosphere can make for an enjoyable family outing during your vacation in Montreal.

Montreal’s summer park was built when the city hosted the Summer Olympic Games in 1976. It is a popular venue for concerts and ball games. The +Olympic Stadium also hosts a tall tower that rises to 175 metres (575 feet) and offers stunning vistas of Montreal and its environs.

St Joseph Oratory Montreal

Visiting +Saint Joseph's Oratory is a great experience for Roman Catholics. It also attracts other faiths due to its historical and architectural significance not to mention the large dome and its cross which is the highest point in the city of Montreal. To get into the oratory, you have to do over two hundred eighty steps. You will see other pilgrims go up patiently on their knees.

The activity that is worth indulging in Montreal is hiking to the summit of the city's famous Mount Royal to take in the gorgeous vistas of the city skyline. Walking to the top of the over 200-metre tall peak is pleasant enough on summer months as it become a hub of activity with live entertainment. Walking tours of the park and its many attractions are suitable for both children and adults and conducted in both French and English.

Though +Jean-Talon Market caters mostly to locals than tourists, it is a good place for visitors for an authentic market experience. To go there by subway, get off at Jean-Talon train station and see signs that read "Marche' Jan-Talon". It is at 7070 Henri-Julien St., south of Jean-Talon. There are other markets in the Montreal area; Atwater Market, Maisonneuve Market and Lachine Market.

Colourful Cauliflower at Jean-Talon Market in Montreal

Other attractions in Montreal that you may want to explore are Biodome, Old Montreal, Botanical Garden located in downtown Montreal near the Biodome and Olympic Park, Le Ronde Six Flags Amusement Park, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Montreal Summit to have a good view of the city.

Coming to Montreal is convenient either by bus, by train, or by air. Montreal-Pierre Elliot Trudeau International Airport is connected to the city centre by way of a shuttle bus and cabs which serves most the city's downtown hotels. Most visitors who come on vacation in Montreal choose to avail of its public transport system rather than rent a car. The traffic conditions in the city are not the most ideal as the city's streets are often congested and gridlock with traffic. That makes navigating its streets quite challenging for a visitor like you.

Montreal has a wide variety of restaurants that offer fine French dining as well as native Quebecoise comfort eats like Poutine, fries with gravy and Pizzaghetti, obviously, is a pizza topped with spaghetti. You may want to try SchwartzDeli's delicious smoked meat sandwiches. Find it at Saint-Laurent Boulevard.

Tell me if you have visited Montreal? If not, do you want to go? What is your favourite place in this city in Canada? Give me some recommendation as I might have missed important information here. Post your comment if you will.

5 Things An Amateur Traveller Should Know

2013-03-07T23:10:00.000-08:00

Today, our topic will be all about you ~ you as a new traveller!

If you are thinking that it is time for you to involve yourself in the world of travelling and do not know how to start, then, you will be glad you are reading this blog. Whether it is a week holiday on a cruise or a month backpacking in Europe, every time you travel, there are things you need to keep in mind.

You will be spending your hard earned money so you deserve a holiday full of enjoyment. As a first time traveller, there will always be incidents that you have no control over. You can avoid some, if not all, to help ensure your journey is a good one.

You can be assured of a smooth travel if you follow these pointers which I have learned in my years of travelling.

Be Prepared
This is a motto that will remind you when you were a kid. In everything you do, before, during and after your trip, be prepared. You need to do some research first on where and when you want to go. You must have thought the 'why' beforehand.

Where to go must be your dream come true. A place you've been thinking all your life ~ maybe a country full of history or a city with the modern civilization. Wherever you want to go, it's your call. You must have good reasons why you chose the place to visit.

It is best to travel during the low season. It could be too much for you in high season. It is overwhelming for a first time traveller like you. If you prefer to travel during the high season, booking your accommodation in advance is a must. You will not find yourself spending the night in the train station with your luggages if you do your homework.

As to why you want to go, it is probably only you yourself knows the reason. One thing for sure, you want your first journey to be the most memorable. So be it and make the most of your chances to be on the go.

Go With Your Best Travel Companion
It is always great to travel with one of your best friends. Not all good friends make good travel partners though. It is your first time so there is no room for mistake. Pick someone of your age. Someone you can share the same travel interests. It will be easier to decide if you and your travel companion have something in common. It will be better if you make some ground rules before your departure. Talk about your goals and expectations for your journey. It will be more exciting if both of you are travelling for the first time.

Be Flexible and be Ready to Take the Challenge
Challenge yourselves! It is the joy of having a travel companion who have similar interests as you do. While it is a very good idea to spend some time to prepare a travel plan, it will be best if you and your companion are flexible with your schedule. Do not treat your travel plan as Master. Your plan shouldn't be so rigid that you cannot allow some crazy twists. If you do not have enough time to see the Great Pyramids, Niagara Falls or Eiffel Tower for that day, don't push yourselves too hard. You can go the next day. The two of you should also leave time for coffee breaks or glasses of wine. Sit some time to watch people.

You Cannot Be Too Trusting
Don't get me wrong! One of your goals in travelling is to connect with the local people or even your fellow tourists. While it is not always true in most cases that locals who are very eager to befriend you have bad intentions, it is always a good idea to be cautious especially in touristy areas. Don't end up paying $200 for two cups of coffee or pay a high price for four bottles of beer. It is not advisable to go for a drink with a stranger. Tourists disappear. Never get drunk unless your companion is capable of taking care of you. If not, take a cab to your hotel especially late at night. It is the safest thing to do.

Get Lost
Plan to get lost. It may happen to you and your companion any time during your trip. Again, leave some time in your itinerary and daily schedule to wander and wonder. Take a walk and get lost in a narrow street or going to the west instead of heading to the east. Leave time to explore as you may end up finding a hidden treasure. This can be the highlight of your trip. You will be amazed to find new good friends while trying to find your way.

Pre-planning coupled with the little use of your common sense, your trip can be a great one. Don't think that travelling is easy. Each day is a challenge for any traveller especially if it is your first time in unfamiliar place. Take those challenges and learn a lesson. Turn them into positive experiences, and have some great travel stories to share when you get home.

Last but not the least, learn some words and try to speak some local phrases that you can use in the market or in the street. People will be glad to hear foreigners trying to speak their local dialect.

I have earned and learned travelling the hard way. You don't have to. You may use some of my travel tips I prepared especially for you. Use it as part of your guide.

If you find this post useful, leave your comments. Share it with your friends ~ it will take only few minutes but will make a big difference.

Darwin F Dalisay of Cainta, Rizal PHILIPPINES

2013-02-22T15:43:00.001-08:00

25. Featured Traveller

Darwin F Dalisay

Customer Service Representative : Traveller

(Cainta Rizal, PHILIPPINES)

“Travelling is the best way to leave your stressful life, relax while discovering new things”

Once again we are featuring a traveller from the beautiful country of the Philippines. Yes, we are happy to have Darwin as an addition to our growing list of featured travellers. Yes, Dharzie as friends call him, prefers exploring more of his country first before going outside of it. I totally agree because I know how hard the government and the Filipino people work to make the Philippines a top tourist destination. They all are striving hard to prove that there's a lot more to see and do in their country. Fun in the Philippines is more than you can expect and see in other Asian countries.

Flag of the Philippines

Dharzie has been travelling the four corners of his country for a long time and he continue counting the places he wants to explore. He admit that he is also considering an out-of-the-country travels like the Southeast Asian countries, Egypt, and the other 6 of the World's New7Wonders in the future.

Continue reading Dharzie's travel story. In a moment, you will have a virtual tour of his favourite places in the Philippines. This is just the start of his "Travelling the World with my Cup."

* * * * *

I was young and always full of excitement in high school and university when I had the most exciting escapade with my classmates. I have done a trip passing 5 towns which I considered a big challenge as it was my first time doing that kind of discovering new things. It was all worth it. We reached a beach so gorgeous with white sand, blue water facing the famous Carabao and Boracay Islands. We did not stop there as we continue exploring the highest hill in town which was few kilometres walk. Everything around us was all green and the air was fresh as expected. At my young age, my mind wandered and felt my passion in appreciating our God-given beauty of nature.

Potipot Island in Candelaria Zambales, PHILIPPINES

My work in a Call Centre station gives me a chance to go on an out-of-town trip for team building and other project of the organization. Potipot Island is a great experience. A tiny island located in Candelaria, Zambales which is a good place to explore being close to the shore at 20 minutes boat ride. Walking around the island is possible. Enjoy the green grass all around, see the corals, hermit crabs, starfish and a big plus is the beautiful sunset in the afternoon. The place is just amazing.

Kanidugan Festival in Odiongan Romblon PHILIPPINES

Very recently, I went home to my hometown in Romblon, a Philippine island in the MIMAROPA region. My province is composed of three big islands, namely: Romblon Island, Tablas Island and Sibuyan Island. Imagine a beautiful place surrounded by these islands that also includes smaller ones, namely: Banton, Maestro de Campo, Simara, Carabao, Isabel and Carlota. Did any of you my friends out there been to Romblon? Come visit us in the month of April to witness the Kanidugan Festival, a celebration of our coconut industry in Odiongan, Romblon. The festive mood is becoming popular to local tourists due to its fun and exciting street dancing. Enjoy the festival and be a part of the fun in Romblon. It's colourful and you surely do not want to miss it, do you?

Mt Pundaquit ~San Antonio Zambales PHILIPPINES

I love mountaineering. That is one of the reasons why I became a member of a group of mountaineers called Batang Hamog. I have had several mountain climbing experiences all over the Philippines. I have attended the nationwide Freedom Climb 2012. Everything was perfectly planned and organized, from shirt to wear, tents to stay, itineraries to follow, food to eat and activities to enjoy. What a great way to meet new friends and fellow mountaineers who were there with the same passion celebrating the annual event.

Mt Manabu ~ Nasugbu Batangas PHILIPPINES

You will see photos of several mountains that I had the chance to explore. Each of which had been a part of my passion in mountaineering in the Philippines, namely; Mount Batulao and Mount Manabu in Nasugbu in the province of Batangas, Mount Cristobal in Dolores in province of Quezon and Mount Pundaquit in San Antonio in the province of Zambales.

It was just the beginning of my mountaineering spree. In the succeeding months, I started conquering Mount Samat, Mount Pico de Loro, Mount Tarak, and Mount Manalmon. I did a solo travel to Oriental Mindoro and re-discovered a simple life. It was the way of life I always wanted to be; peace and quiet with the real people.

My trips were not limited to the mountains alone. My eagerness to see some historical churches brought me to the province of Bulacan. I was commuting and walking for about 32 hours moving from one town to another. It's worth the effort as I succeeded in visiting many towns that I have seen for the first time. A province full of history; museums, shrines and old churches can be found here including the famous Barasoain Church.

The year 2013 will be a big start as a solo traveller. It will be entirely different this time. I am not taking the land transport to my destinations. I am flying and scours the Visayas and Mindanao with full of energy and excitement. I will be discovering everything about the local people, their culture, food and their everyday life. I will make sure this will be the cheapest trips ever. I will bring home memories and my digital camera will be my witness in all my journey. When I return, I will share with you, my friends all the good things that my adventure will bring about, things that will benefit each and everyone of my fellow travellers. Stay tuned!

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Featured Traveller #12 Esmat from Kabul AGHANISTAN

Featured Traveller #13 Cris from Valenzuela City PHILIPPINES
Featured Traveller #14 Jeroen from Hoogeveen The NETHERLANDS

Featured Traveller #15 Angel from Iloilo City PHILIPPINES
Featured Traveller #16 Zara from Kuala Lumpur MALAYSIA
Featured Traveller #17 Kwan from Bangkok THAILAND
Featured Traveller #18 Jorn Eriksson from Oslo NORWAY
Featured Traveller #19 Cecille from Glasgow SCOTLAND
Featured Traveller #20 Marysia from Warsaw POLAND
Featured Traveller #21 Sharon from Geneva SWITZERLAND
Featured Traveller #22 Wesam from Baghdad IRAQ
Featured Traveller #23 MoeAmine from Algiers ALGERIA

Featured Traveller #24 Ruxandra Ioana from Brussels BELGIUM
Featured Travellers #26 HiOporto from Oporto PORTUGAL

The Disney World of Orlando ~ A Good Place to Get Together!

2013-01-26T23:50:00.003-08:00

Today, I am writing again about the beautiful holiday spot in the United States. It is inspiring to blog about a trip that involves the enjoyment of the whole family. A trip to a family-friendly environment, I should say.

It is entirely magical. Yes, it is! The Disney World of Orlando is such a magic place to parents, grandparents, and children ~ to the young ones and to the young once as well.

For the kids, Disney World is what they are always dreaming of.

One summer, my family travels from Toronto to Orlando. The main purpose of our trip is to explore the Disney World alone. It is surprising that everytime we are holidaying in one place, more often than not, we go beyond the place we have agreed to visit. I guess this is due to the fact that we always want to see as many attractions as we can, obviously, Orlando is not an exception. It is indeed a good decision because the city has so much to offer.

The city of Orlando is widely known as 'the theme park playground of America' surrounded by world renowned theme parks and other tourist attractions in both Lake Buena Vista and Kissimmee. When we talk of Orlando, it largely revolves around the Disney World and other attractions which inspire visitors to spend their vacation in the area. It is a popular place to those of you who have children because you can always maximize the enjoyment, the same way our family did.

I find that a trip to Orlando can be a combination of business and pleasure. Downtown Orlando is the city's Central Business district and home to office buildings and retail establishments as well as to sporting and entertainment arenas. You may try this on one of your business trips to Florida and let me know what you think.

Three theme parks in Orlando is on my list of top attractions in Florida. I do recommend them if you are staying for a week to fully enjoy them. The following information is to give you a birds-eye-view of what to expect while you are in Orlando.

Walt Disney World ~ I must tell you that this is the most visited park in Orlando and the main focal point of the majority of Florida vacations. Walt Disney World consists of Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios and Disney's Animal Kingdom. The participation of the Disney cast members is a treat that your kids will be delighted to witness. Celebrate with them the Dream Come True Parade highlighting the music and floats down the Main Street. Watch out for this! For more information on other things to do, where to eat and ticket packages, you may click the link I provided above.

Universal Orlando Resort ~ This theme park is popularly known as Universal Orlando. You will experience here the two main parks. As they say, you can jump into the action with the movies at the Universal Studios and head on to the next and experience the Universal's Islands of Adventure. There are many things to do in your adventure with Universal Orlando Resort. So be prepared for an all day celebration at this most exciting park. I posted a link to Universal Orlando for you to get more information on events and packages that is happening in the resort. Have fun!

The Sea Worlds ~ You will be thrilled to the max at the three watery attractions that will get you wet and wild in Orlando. A roller coaster will surprise you into a dark and watery passageways through the sunken city that flung into the waters below. This can happen only at the SeaWorld Orlando, a place where you will encounter the mystery of the sea and the sea life. The Discovery Cove Resort is an inclusive park that will give you a chance to snorkel through stunning coral reefs and exotic fish. You can hold on to the dolphins and play with them and have a ride of a lifetime. Aquatica is another water park just across the SeaWorld. Enjoy a shaded area with your own lounger and umbrella or stay cool and relax at your private cabana.

Our space is not enough to write about the many amenities of these three water parks, so feel free to find them in their respective links I have provided.

Let me tell you that Orlando is not for theme parks alone. If you are into museums, the Orlando Museum of Art welcomes you to its collection of American Art, Art of the Ancient Americas and the African Art. It also offers attractions like the Orlando Science Centre and the Shakespeare Theatre. Another attraction is the Kennedy Space Centre Visitor Complex which is an hour east of Orlando. You will find here a museum of rocket and missile and anything that pertains to astronauts and the space shuttles. These museums are good alternatives if you want a break from the theme parks and rides in Orlando.

Although public transport in Orlando is provided by the local transportation authority, I find it necessary to rent a car for the duration of our stay. It will also be comfortable if shopping is part of your itinerary. It will be easy for you to move between shopping malls, boutiques, as well as the flea markets.

Three airports are serving the city of Orlando but I recommend that you land at the Orlando International Airport which is the closest to the theme parks and other attractions. Pick up your rented car at the airport for an easy and quick trip from the airport to your hotel.

You will notice that the city's greatest concentration of hotels are situated in areas located in International Drive, Sand Lake/Dr.Phillips and Lake Buena Vista. Our stay at the Westgate Vacation Villas in the area of Kisimmee is more exciting though because the resort offers a comfortable and fully furnished home within easy reach of the Disney World. I am a living testimony of Westgate's excellence as I own a timeshare of this beautiful resort. It offers activities, special events and supervised programs for guests of all ages. So, check it out now, you may be interested to get a share of this resort for the enjoyment of your family. You may click the link above for its amenities.

Am always thinking of you, my fellow travellers, on how you can enjoy the much awaited holidays. In a way, our experiences in Orlando will help you plan your trip and organize an itinerary. It is time to get-together. Your family deserves it.

18 Things to Remember Before Leaving your House for a Trip

2013-01-20T11:46:00.001-08:00

There are important things to remember when you are going on a trip. For frequent travellers, this is a routine and will serve as a reminder. For the benefit of you, our readers, who are starting to travel or first time travellers, make this checklist handy. You will never go wrong if you do this assignment before stepping out of your house for a journey.

There are other helpful travel tips I have compiled to help you out. Check it.

If there are other important things to do that you did not see here, please send me a message. Let's share it with our fellow travellers.

Appliances

1. Clear answering machine and voice mail. This will leave no trace of your activities.

2. Empty refrigerator. Avoid spoiled food left in the fridge for longer period.
3. Unplug appliances. It is best to unplug if at all possible.

Bills & Payments

4. Pay any outstanding bills. Do this to avoid overdue payments.

Documents

5. Leave copy of itinerary and travel documents with reachable relative

Garbage

6. Take out garbage and items for recycling

Keys

7. Leave house key with relative or trusted neighbour
8. Lock all doors and windows

Lights & Other Electricals

9. Put lights on timers
10. Turn down thermostats

Mails & Emails

11. Arrange with post office to hold your mails while you are away
12. Stop all deliveries.
13. Set up auto email response

Pets & Plants

14. Arrange for care of pets, yards, plants and other living things

Security

15. Notify alarm company of your absence

Valuables

16. Store valuables in a safe place

Water

17. Shut off water

Final Checking

18. Walk through the house to check for anything you may have missed

Ruxandra Ioana Marinescu of Brussels BELGIUM

2013-01-07T21:28:00.001-08:00

24. Featured Traveller

Ruxandra Ioana Marinescu

Student : Fashion Blogger : Traveller

(Brussels, BELGIUM)

“Whatever happens, remember that you're on vacation”

We are now going around the world through the travellers that we feature. This time we have Ruxandra who lives in Brussels to study and make waves with her passion in fashion. She is originally from Romania and has travelled to different countries like Spain, Italy, United Kingdom, Cyprus, France, Holland and Egypt. When asked about her future travel plans, she said her next trip will be to the USA, Thailand, Dominican Republic and Portugal. Take note, USA is her favourite destination.

Ruxandra believes that budgeting while on a trip is very vital. "I can't really manage to cut cost while on a trip. I tend to spend more on shopping for clothes so I must know some numbers before I go on a journey", she says. Good deals and beautiful photos on the web motivates her to go on a trip. Cheaper tour packages to beautiful destinations fascinate her. She thinks that it is a good opportunity to see as many places while she can.

Ruxandra has so much to share about her journey. She wants to advice other travellers on the do's and don'ts while travelling. Something that her fellow solo traveller has to be aware and follow to have a safe and memorable experience. If you want to read more about Ruxandra, please continue reading her story.

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From Brussels with Love

To describe Brussels, I can only think of one suitable word ~ variety. Brussels is very different. There are places that I feel I am in another country. In an hour I am in the Chinese quarter near Saint Catherine church and to the African hood near Porte de Namur in the next. There are Italians, Spanish, Portuguese, Romanian and many other nationalities living in this heart of Europe. It's multicultural!

Flag of Belgium

I have been living here for more than three years now and still try to learn more about this city. Inspite of the rainy weather, I must say that Brussels has its own unique beauty and is quickly gaining a reputation as one of Europe's must-see destinations. There are not too many places to see in the city but I can tell you that the Grand Place, the Atomium, Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Parc Royal and Triumphal Arc in Cinquantenaire Park are places you don't want to miss. Brussels is not tidy enough these days, not like when I first dream of coming here to study.

To me, there are other cities in Belgium more appealing, with great landscape while on a nice road trip. Antwerp is one of my favourites and on top of my list. A place full of history and ultimate shopping experience (at least, to me). And the list continues...

Dinant, a magnificent city near the border with France
Namur, municipality in Wallonia where you can visit the Citadelle. Come visit at night to admire its gorgeous landscape
Brugge, the place the local people call "Little Venice" because this is a city with many canals where you can have a boat ride to chill on a summer afternoon
Ostend, port and city in the Flemish province of West Flanders
Knokke, a very clean city where a wonderful resort in the North Sea is located.

It is not easy to put stories of all places I have visited in few sentences but one thing sure is that I treasure all my experiences. Though I have bad ones in some of my travels, I still think it is a good lesson to be more careful on my next. With this, I can say that travelling is a learning experience. It really is!

My recent trip outside Romania and Belgium was in a tiny island in the Mediterranean. A good deal on Cyprus that costs me around 300 Euro for airline ticket and 5-Night hotel came at the right time. I was in Romania with my family for my annual vacation and before I knew it, I was already leaving Bucarest for Larnaca. It was a little over two hours travel time between city airports. While landing at the Larnaca Airport, I saw the desert-like view to my right and the gorgeous sea on the window on my left. The sea was like waving at me and I started imagining the nice beaches in this tiny island. It was my first trip to Cyprus that made it more exciting. I took a bus from the airport to the centre of Larnaca to find my hotel. It was easy and convenient. Local people were very friendly.

Turkish occupies northern Cyprus and the southern part by the local Cypriots. They are lovely people who speaks good English being a former British colony. The history is interesting but I will leave it as a mystery for those who want to visit this spot of Greek history and beautiful landscape all in one.

It was a delightful stay in Cyprus. I stood in a nice and spacious hotel in Larnaca, with full equipped kitchen, big bedroom, a living room, great terrace and my favourite ~ a big bathtub. It was a convenient place to enjoy life.

I continue my journey to the max and visit great places in Cyprus ~ cities like Ayia Napa with its beautiful crystal clear water and the sand that looks like taken from an hourglass. The beaches here are breathtaking and my favourite is the Nissi Beach. I tour the city of Limassol and Capo el Greco where the beautiful blue lagoon is so admirable.

Cyprus is a small island so you can go around easily using the bus which is very accessible and cheap. Taxis are affordable as well. Drive a car if you really want to see the details of your adventure. Gasoline costs as low as 1 Euro per litre. I strongly advice you to take day-long cruises, fishing and swimming at your own phase. Admire the wonderful landscape at the Camel Park, a 15-minute drive from the city of Larnaca.

With all the experiences I have had, there are do's and don'ts that will help my fellow solo travellers. You have to be aware of this wherever in the world you are travelling.

The Do's ~ Always have fun. Remember you are on vacation, so stay positive.
The Don'ts ~ The succeeding tips are just some of the important information that will help whether you are travelling alone or not.
Be very careful of your luggages. If you are on a long trip, purchase travel insurance
Keep your money, tickets and other valuables in a secure place. Put your money on a waist belt if at all possible
Stay away from strangers and suspicious people especially if you are a solo traveller

I am sharing some of the photos I have taken both in Belgium and Cyprus. Enjoy!

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Are you a traveller who would like to share your travel story with our blog and our readers? Then, I'd love to hear from you!
Please email me at fromatravellersdesk@gmail.com

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Top 10 Destinations to Visit in U.K.

2013-01-05T13:35:00.002-08:00

Written by Alicia Avory

Many people choose UK to enjoy a wonderful holiday experience. From the Isles of Scilly to the city of Liverpool, visiting your favourite spots in the United Kingdom is easy when you have the money to travel. Here is our list to top ten places to visit in the United Kingdom.

10. Isles of Scilly:
Shortly after the end of the Ice Age, Mesolithic hunters and gatherers started inhabiting the area on a seasonal basis. The first permanent inhabitants built over 80 amazing Bronze Age entrance graves. The best time to visit the Isles of Scilly is in late April and early May as the wildflowers are in full bloom adding to the beauty of these five islands.

9. Canterbury:
Everyone needs to visit Canterbury at least once in their life. You can now make your pilgrimage to the Canterbury Cathedral, ride a canoe down The River Stour and visit the Marlowe Theatre. The best time to go to Canterbury is during the Canterbury Festival, one of the largest art festivals in the world, in October.

8. Stratford-upon-Avon:
Home to William Shakespeare, everyone needs to enjoy a theatre performance at the remodelled Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Make sure to visit during the World Shakespeare Festival at the end of April to see famous actors perform your favourite Shakespeare plays.

7. Stonehenge:
No one is sure how or why Stonehenge was built, but everyone must take in the United Nation's site. The best time to go to Stonehenge is for the summer solstice in June.

6. Brighton:
There are so many things to do in Brighton like watching sunsets amid the starlings at West Pier and shopping at the town's many boutique shops, everyone must visit Brighton at least once. The Brighton Festival in May is a wonderful time to visit the fireworks, parades and concerts.

5. Newcastle:
The setting for two of the famous Harry Potter books, everyone must visit Newcastle. Visitors will not find a more diverse city anywhere in the world. From visiting the Alnwick Castle and Gardens with its amazing Renaissance art to the active nightlife, visitors are always amazed at the wide assortment of activities available in Newcastle. Make sure to visit at the end of June for Hoppings Fair.

4. Cambridge:
Cambridge is a wonderful city to explore especially if you love history. From the 800-year old University to the Polar Museum, those who love history will find much to do in Cambridge. The best time to visit Cambridge is during May and early June.

3. Liverpool:
Visiting the Albert Dock area needs to be on everyone's list. Filled with museums featuring the Beatles and a day spent at Albert Dock will be enjoyed by all. The best time to visit is during December when the city comes alive with Christmas carols and mulled cider.

2. York:
Explore the city's unique past at the York Castle Museum or get lost in The Shambles, the city of York invites everyone to explore its history which dates back to 71 AD. The best time to go to York is during the Race Meetings in May.

1. London:
If you have never seen Buckingham Palace, make plans to see it now. The city has many modern recreational facilities, thanks to the recent Olympics so come prepared to have some fun. While anytime is great time to visit London, September is particularly beautiful with the trees changing colours.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and start your trip to visit the top 10 destinations in U.K. During your trip if you fall short of cash or face any financial obligations, apply for cash payday and get instant cash.

Tours of Different Themes to Enjoy in Malaysia

2013-01-04T21:52:00.001-08:00

Written by Amrita Barnwal

Malaysia is a beautiful holiday destination that offers several opportunities of fun and entertainment for its visitors. Ranging from shopping to sightseeing and from enjoying outdoor sports to enthrall with the outstanding views of its surroundings. Malaysia offers plenty of things that can make your holidays truly memorable in every sense.

Tourists always seek to have unique travel experiences in each part of the world and understanding this requirement of them, we have compiled some innovative travel packages to enjoy in Malaysia. While on your tour in Malaysia, you will realize how beautiful this world has so much to offer for its guests for a holidaying experience. Become part of a memorable Malaysia trip and understand the culture of the country while witnessing the splendid landscapes and serene beaches. Explore flight tickets fare to reach Malaysia and have wonderful memories with these themed packages that explain your true travel experience in this country.

Nature Tours

Malaysia is renowned for its natural wonders. You can find several places in this country to enjoy a wonderful holiday in the lap of nature. Cameron Highland is one of them featuring vegetation and strawberry farms that appear a vibrant paradise for holidays. With stimulating waterfalls, lush green forests and refreshing breeze, you will forget about the troubles of your life. Langkawi Island is another beautiful destination that one can choose to enjoy a memorable nature vacation. It is a coastal fishing area, which is home to over 700 species of fishes. Enjoy a relaxing tour in this part of the country.

Historical Tours

Apart from the natural sceneries, the thing that makes Malaysia tours so special is its rich historical backdrop. Understand the influential culture of the country visiting its rich historical places including its splendid architectures, artifacts and statues. You can visit Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, Sarawak Cultural Village, and several other places that feature a number of genuine buildings to make the visitors appreciate the architectural grandeur of the country. To witness creativity of Malaysian culture, visit Penang to see the handicraft products being made. Here, you can get your own batik painting and pewter dish.

Romantic Tours

Malaysia is full of places that offer wonderful opportunities for romance. For many honeymooners, it is one of the preferred destinations in the world. Whether visiting Cameron Highlands Hill Station or visiting the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur, you will get perfect atmosphere that enhance the romantic feel of your life. Gem Island is an awesome place to relax and spend sensuous moments with your spouse. Calm beaches and breathtaking sea views create a pleasant setting for a romantic getaway. Langkawi or the awe-inspiring Mt Kinabalu also allows you to discover the real meaning of romance with your partner. Enjoy floral baths and revitalizing spa sessions to freshen up completely.

A creative holiday in Malaysia always bring lots of surprises for you. Add any of these beautiful elements in your vacation and make it truly memorable in every sense. So don’t waste time. Decide where you want to go, and trust me, your Malaysia visit will truly be a memorable experience.

Enjoy a Fun-Filled Holiday in Colombia

2012-12-27T09:02:00.001-08:00

Written by Amrita Barnwal

One of the most beautiful countries of the world, Colombia is an ideal destination to have fun with friends and family. This tropical country shows incredible diversity bestowing a real world charm to its visitors. It has an ever-changing topography and rich historic backdrop that appeals the tourists for exclusivity and matchlessness. Loaded with mystery and adventure, cultures of this country have enthralled the world since centuries.

Colombia is famous for its excellent coffee and the purity of emeralds. Besides, it also features several things that one would love enjoy during his holidays. It is a country to relax and discover the history and culture of a wonderful place. With amazing natural biodiversity, it features several sites to visit during your holidays. See what this country has to offer you for fun, sightseeing and adventure.

Archaeological Tourism

It is one of the significant attractions of tourism in Colombia. Archaeological parks are the most remarkable cultural treasures in Colombia. Every year, a number of tourists come to visit these destinations understand the historical richness of the place. As they visit these places, they feel their magic in true sense. Archaeological tourism is a beautiful experience to discover the social organization and archaeological development in Colombia. There are several marvelous archaeological sites in Colombia that need to be discovered.

Nature Tourism

Colombia is the second most diversed country on earth. With exceptional natural splendour, Colombia features 5 contexts with a remarkable landscape. National natural parks of Colombia give you the invitation of discovering the eco-tourism options in this country. Explore here the wonderful option of bird-watching and witness a multi-coloured nature that sings for its tourists. Also feel the aroma and magic of rural Colombia and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locales.

Adventure Tourism

Uneven geography of Colombia allows the tourists exploring an atmosphere that features variety of landscapes and regions, affluent in flora and fauna. It allows the visitors having experience of cherished thrills. Adventure tourism in Colombia let you enjoying a trip with the blend of ecosystems, landscapes and nature. Activities that you can enjoy here are diving, rafting, paragliding, windsurfing, kite surfing, light sailing, cruise and ski sailing, aqua-biking, underwater and surface fishing.

Colombia is a country that offers comfort and luxury to visitors in secret corners of its contemporary cities, serene beaches, tropical forest deserts and mountains covered with coffee plantation and colourful flora and fauna. Enjoy the warm hospitality of the natives and experience an exotic world where pleasure fills all your senses with complete enchantment and where you have always the risk of getting pulled with its rare natural charm. So why are you waiting? Go and explore flight tickets fare for Colombia and believe me you will never regret of anything here except there is a chance that you can think of staying here forever.

More than just Cruising the Danube River, Vienna ~ Now or Never

2012-12-18T23:02:00.000-08:00

It's my first trip to Vienna and I don't think it is my last. Air Berlin has always been one of my favourite airlines. I fly with them more often than any airlines. It is a little over an hour flight from Zurich to Vienna. As always, it is a relaxing and comfortable travel experience. I never question the level of their comfort and the ticket prices are very reasonable. My one-way ticket costs Cdn$170 equivalent roughly around 130 Euro. A good deal for great service.

The first thing that come to my mind before flying to Vienna is my impression of a regal atmosphere associated with great composers like Beethoven and Mozart. Though I am not into museums, I am obliged to make my stay memorable by visiting some of the hundred museums known to attract many visitors to the city.

The Inner City is known for its most famous attractions like the St Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg palace. The St Stephen’s Cathedral was originally a basilica that was built on a Romanesque sanctuary in the 12th century. Today the Cathedral is known as a premier Gothic structure in Europe that is filled with spectacular sculptures, paintings, wood carvings and altars.

The Innere Stadt, the Old Town of Vienna, is perhaps the most popular accommodation choice for visitors on a vacation to Vienna as it offers convenience along with numerous sight-seeing opportunities. The Landstrasse lies close to the Inner Stadt and is home to several churches, monuments and palaces like the magnificent Schwarzenberg Palace, the Belvedere Palace and Konzerthaus.

Vienna’s many splendid tourist attractions are concentrated at the city centre. These attractions include magnificent palaces, more than a hundred museums, gardens and unique cultural attractions. The Schönbrunn Palace is one of the prime attractions in Vienna.

See Vienna in a completely new and relaxing way with their Hop-on Hop-off bus tour where you can set your own pace. You may get on and off at any of the 15 or more stops, and as often as you want. The ticket which is valid for one day costs approximately US$26.00 or €20.00 only. If you want a more sophisticated tour of Vienna, you may take the Original Oldtimer Bus that will take you not just the ordinary sightseeing but a nostalgic experience to tourists of any age.

Vienna has a temperate continental climate which is characterized by warm, sunny summers and cold, frigid temperatures. The hottest month is Vienna is July when temperatures usually register between 60F and 75F (15C and 25C). These temperatures are considered to be ideal for sight-seeing in this gorgeous city. Accordingly, the summer season in Vienna is the most heavily tourist trafficked season in the city.

Going around Vienna is very convenient. The city is usually accessed by visitors via the Vienna International Airport which lies 11 miles (18 km) to the southeast of Vienna. The airport is connected to the city centre by local trains, taxis and buses as well as a City Airport train.

Transport within the city is provided by Vienna’s excellent public transport system which is made up of old world trams, buses, a fast U-Bahn (underground) and S-Bahn (suburban railway). Taxis are also easily available but are quite expensive so I don't recommend you to use it. For a romantic vacation, you may want to indulge your better-half with a ride on a horse drawn carriage, which is also offered as a mode of transportation in the city.

If you are thinking of renting a car to go around, you better forget it because parking within the city limits is quite expensive and the city is a maze of one-way streets that are quite difficult to navigate. However, if you are travelling outside the city, renting a car will be a good choice.

Vienna is renowned the world over for its many culinary delights. The many excellent restaurants in Vienna offer a wide variety of cuisines that include Austrian and French fare, along with Serbian, Slovenian, Czech, Slovakian, Hungarian, Russian, Italian and Asian cuisines. Additionally the city also has a well developed coffee house and café culture. A must-do culinary experience on any visit to Vienna is the sampling of its world famous contribution to the world of desserts, the calorie-laden chocolate cake, Sacher Torte. This much loved desert was invented at the luxurious Hotel Sacher by celebrated chef Franz Sacher. The Sacher Café, which is located in the hotel, serves this delectable treat along with many other delicious Austrian pastries and coffees.

I have good memories of Vienna. I consider meeting new friends very fulfilling. I met Wilson Tan Ho for the first time. A Filipino-Austrian who works at the United Nation Headquarters in Vienna. I came to know him when I read his story on feeding the homeless in Vienna every year at Christmas season. I eventually wrote about him in one of my websites about his good cause. He is an active member of the Folklorico Vienna.

Another Filipino-Austrian that I have brief conversation is Norman Bacal, a young entrepreneur and a travelling businessman. The last but not the least is a Cambodian-Austrian part-owner of Kaori Japanese Restaurant. I simply call him Andy. A very young fellow who is so accommodating from the day we first patronized his restaurant until the last night when we had our on-the-house dinner with his family. Kaori is a stone-throw from the Park Inn by Radisson Hotel where I stayed. It is located at the banks of the Danube River, adjacent to the United Nation Head Office. So, if you happen to be in Vienna, try Kaori. I love their Bulgogi (marinated beef, rice) and miso soup.

Oh, and speaking of the Danube River.... This is one of the reasons why I am so eager to visit Austria ~ cruising the blue Danube. It is a dream come true. Cruising the Danube River is the best way to experience the famous landscapes, cultural heritage and very old architecture. During the cruise, you will see from afar the impressive architecture of the United Nations buildings, the multi-coloured Kunsthaus and the Prater. It's amazing!

Little did I know that Danube river passes through ten countries: Romania, Hungary, Serbia, Austria, Germany, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Ukraine and Moldova. That means you will have an experience of a lifetime cruising these countries on the blue Danube. It's priceless!

More amazing photos of the people of Vienna and the surrounding history ~ taken by the author himself.....

Where on Earth can you find the Little Big City of Bratislava

2012-12-14T22:17:00.001-08:00

Cumil (Rubberneck)

Where on earth can you find Bratislava? This is the question most people ask me about. Not many of them know this capital city of Slovak Republic (also known as Slovakia). This made me wonder how this infamous place looks like. How it differs from other countries I have visited. That must be the reason why I decided to include Slovakia on my recent journey to England, Switzerland, Czech Republic and Austria.

Wien Sudbahnhof

My trip to Bratislava is brief and I had no clue what to expect. The train smoothly roll its wheel for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from Vienna Railway Station Wien Sudbahnhof in Austria. There are few passengers. We are only around 10 in the coach that gives me a chance to wander from one window to another to have a good view of the landscape and to have a good shot for my camera. Passengers are polite and friendly. A very relaxing and convenient trip.

I bought our train ticket in Vienna for €14, a day prior to my brief journey. I must tell you that it's easy to buy train tickets. As soon as you enter the station, you will see to your left, ticket machines that is user-friendly. Press this, press that and insert your money, and voila you have the ticket for the train leaving in the next few minutes or a ticket for a trip the following morning.

Bratislava is the largest city in Slovakia, and serves as the state capital. It is situated in the centre of Europe in the southwestern part of Slovakia. So beautiful and vibrant city bordered by the Czech Republic, Poland, Ukraine, Hungary, and Austria.

Main Railway Station in Bratislava

As you arrive at the Main Train Station, you'll see vineyards on the slopes of the Little Carpathian Mountains, where they meet the Danube River. The Austrian border is almost within sight of the city and Hungary is just 16 km away. Many beautiful monuments survive in the old town to tell of its past under Austro-Hungarian rule, and Bratislava's numerous museums are surprisingly rich. Bratislava is not as popular tourist destination as Budapest and Prague but I can tell you that the Old Town Bratislava is equally rich in history.

National Theatre ~ Bratislava

The old city and the castle are the best parts of Bratislava. The old city is packed with museums (such as the Municipal Museum which comes complete with torture chambers and the Museum of Wine Production) and palaces (Primate's Palace and the Mirbach Palace). The castle, built above the Danube, was a frontier post of the Roman Empire. Climb up for the great views and check out the very interesting Slovak National Museum expositions within. The Natural Sciences Museum of the Slovak National Museum and the Slovak National Gallery on the river are also worth a visit.

The Old town Bratislava has numerous whimsical statues. You will see their bronze images in this blog. Some are funny and some are serious. Whatever the symbol of these statues are, I feel that each one of them offers a warm welcome. Each one has story to tell.

Post Office Girls

You don't want to miss Cumil (Rubberneck), a statue emerging from a manhole. You will never find like him anywhere in the world. Take a picture of this world rarity. Find him in the corner of Panska and Rybarska Brana streets. Take notice the road sign protecting him after he lost his head twice due to some reckless drivers. Don't miss seeing the statue of Schone Naci closeby at Sedlarska Ulica. There are a lot more. You will love them the way I did.

Local people do not speak English especially the older folks. Most of them speaks the Slovak language. It will be a bit of a delay when you are travelling by public transport. They are very helpful though. They are trying their best to tell you the direction through sign language, and it works at times. As in most countries, the young people understand and speak the English language, so I advice you to find them.

The quality of public transport in Bratislava is excellent as to my standard. All the lines; tram, trolley and bus are clean and with enough space. Passengers are well-behaved as well as the drivers. There is no untoward incident, whatsoever. It's a big surprise to read a warning from a bratislavaguide local website that ticket inspectors in Bratislava public transport are ruthless towards tourist. They carry out random spot-checks around the clock. The website's advice to travellers is to familiarize using the tickets. A passenger should mark or validate by inserting into the orange ticket-marking-machine immediately upon boarding.

Bratislava is a place that really touched my heart. The Slovaks are warm and friendly ~ you'll never go wrong in this capital city of Slovakia. If ever I decide to re-visit the country, I will make sure to include Hungary, Poland, and Ukraine because they are few hours away from each other. It will be another exciting escapades I suppose.

It has always been my aim with this travel blog to express my desire to share the beauty of a country through photos. You can make use of the information here; tips, advice, must-see places in your future trip to Slovak Republic. Have a happy and safe trip to the little big city of Bratislava!

The Psychedelic City of Las Vegas. The Best Place to Spend the New Year if You Want to be Entertained

2012-12-08T21:22:00.001-08:00

Viva Las Vegas! The entertainment capital of the world.

It was one new year's eve when I spent part of my 4-night stay in this psychedelic city that 'never sleeps'. New Year celebration is just like the other three nights, the only difference are the fireworks and the many happy faces. It is more like a street festival.

Although the main attraction in Las Vegas continues to be gambling, it is becoming a family-friendly destination suitable for all ages. This glitzy, glamorous city also offers famous attractions like theme parks, golf courses, mega mall shopping and fine dining opportunities along with spectacular live shows and performances by famous names in show business.

If you are looking for an escape from your daily routine or merely to break the monotony of a laid-back environment, a Las Vegas holiday may provide you with a world-class attractions that are known to delight visitors.

Three nights to a week of stay is enough to fully enjoy Las Vegas at this time of the year. You will be able to enjoy the festive season, the casinos and your most favourite shows on the strip.

How can you miss The Venetian Hotel and Casino with its Venetian canals and waterways which feature gondolas that offer rides to guests. With the relaxing and romantic ride down the Grand Canal, you feel the charm and excitement of the real Venice.

The star attraction at the Mirage casino is a faux volcano that shoots flames high into the night sky repeatedly, as it presents a spectacular though terrifying sight. Yet another popular attraction at the Mirage is its huge salt water aquarium showcasing coral reef creatures and sea animals from Australia, Hawaii, the Red Sea and a couple of other places. Not to forget is your face to face encounter with the dolphins and other exotic animals at the Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat. All these and more can be seen at the Mirage Hotel & Casino.

The Luxor recreates the landscape of Egypt with its pyramids in the Nevada desert. Luxor has everything you expect from a Las Vegas hotel ~ offers a massive casino, an IMAX theatre, swimming pools and various other attractions like entertaining shows and comedy performances. Be part of the excitement and feel the Egyptian ambiance in Luxor Las Vegas.

The famous Bellagio Casino offers a spectacular conservatory that features elaborate displays of exotic plants and flowers. In addition to its conservatory, the opulent Bellagio also features displays of dancing fountains that are set to music and feature rushing water that soars that high. The one attraction that you don't want to miss is the Fiori Di Como, a chandelier that adorns the hotel lobby in colourful splendour.

Fremont Street is also known as ‘Glitter Gulch’ for its many neon signs and flashing lights.
This street is another excellent venue to celebrate the new year. The street also hosts various strip clubs, stage shows and the Fremont Street Mall. It is truly all about the Fremont Street Experience.

If you are on a vacation to Las Vegas with your children they are bound to be delighted by the city’s many roller coaster rides. Las Vegas is believed to be one of the world’s top rollercoaster destinations, which has the biggest, fastest and most exciting rides.

The most thrilling roller coasters in Las Vegas include the roller coasters, which are located atop the Stratosphere Tower. The city also offers several other thrilling rides which include the Speed Ride at the Sahara Casino and Hotel, the Canyon Blaster at the Circus Circus Adventure dome, and the Manhattan Express at the New York , New York Hotel and Casino. This will be an unforgettable new year experience for your kids at least for once?

Las Vegas is served by McCarran International Airport that is located one mile to the south of the Las Vegas Strip. I stayed in a hotel beside the airport, a convenient place because the Las Vegas airport is connected to the strip and downtown by various buses and airport taxi services. The Best Western Hotel is barely 10-minute walk.

Public transport within Las Vegas is provided by public buses, private trolley services, taxicabs, monorail links and free shuttle services, which are provided by many of the casinos. Another popular mode of transport in Las Vegas is limousine hire and the city is equipped with many affordable limousine hire agencies which offer chauffeur-driven- vehicles.

Las Vegas offers a plethora of shopping opportunities. The city’s many casino hotels encourage you to spend money at every turn and they are equipped with huge mega malls in addition to gambling tables and slot machines. These casino malls offer a world of delights and somewhat ensure that your winnings continue to remain with them as you indulge in shopping sprees with their treasure filled malls.

Some of the most popular shopping malls in Las Vegas include Town Square Las Vegas, the Miracle Mile at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino, the Forum Shops at the Caesar’s Palace, Mandalay Place, Via Bellagio, Wynn Esplanade, the Las Vegas Boulevard and the Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian.

Las Vegas offers a wide variety of restaurants that offer almost every cuisine known. Moreover the city also offers restaurants that are feature creations of some of the most well known chefs in the world.

There you have it fellow travellers. It's holiday season. You still have time to pack your bags and enjoy the lively surroundings of Las Vegas. Spend your new year at least once. I'd been there and it's truly unforgettable.

Photo taken in front of Luxor Hotel - Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.A.

Aareschlucht in Switzerland is a treasure. You don't want to miss this experience of a lifetime, do you?

2012-12-01T19:45:00.000-08:00

Not long ago, I had the chance of exploring a place I never thought I would.
It is an unbelievable experience! I consider this adventure a once in a lifetime. Why did I say this? It's mainly because the couple who made our trip to Aareschlucht possible, are travellers and my visit to Switzerland is actually long overdue. It is not because of them, it is my unavailability.

Paul and Pacita travels a lot. This Swiss couple are real travellers in their own right. They are always out enjoying life. In a minute they are up in the mountain, after a while she would send me a message that they are back on the road to another country.

The time has come. Our dream to Switzerland is now for real. And the trip to the Aare river gorge, the Aareschlucht is happening. It did not take long when we reach the entrance that late afternoon. Walking through the gorge with its gigantic rocks of hard limestone is amazing in itself. It is an exciting moment ~ a unique way to experience raw nature that surrounds the beautiful light green colour of the river and its waterfalls. Mesmerizing!

The Aareschlucht is the only way into the upper Aare valley, Haslital. The gorge connects the villages of Innertkirchen and Meiringen. A road across the mountain ridge made it very accessible. We walk through the 1000-metre gorge's bridges made of steel and wooden floor almost two metres wide and anchored on the cliff walls. Some parts of the gorge are normal paths but most are cut out of the rock making it look like a cave or tunnels. The 1650-metre path is truly a work of art. Truly amazing. I wish you would be able to see the beauty of Aareschlucht through the photos that we take turns to shoot.

The Aare gorge is closed as of this writing. Make sure you do not plan a trip between November and March, the winter season in Switzerland. For the coming year 2013, it is opening on the 5th of April at the west entrance of Meiringen side while the east entrance of Innertkirchen is presumably opening on the 18th of May. Entrances will open at 8:30 am. If you want to maximize your stay and enjoy more, I suggest you come in late afternoon and stay until late in the evening to see the illumination.

There is a direct connection between Meiringen station and the Aare Gorge. This means changing trains once. Taking the MIB-Bahn (MIB train) leaving on the neighbouring track will bring you directly to the stations Aareschlucht West or Aareschlucht East a few minutes later.

For complete details on Aareschlucht's opening times, admission fees, restaurant and map information, you may check it here.

Email can also be sent to:
info@aareschlucht.ch

Aareschlucht is an experience that you will treasure. Read its history before heading to the Aare gorge. See how a handful of citizens grounded and financed the construction of the path in the year 1888 and how it was developed and improved up until now.

With all the beautiful pictures I posted here, are you now convinced that Aareschlucht, and Switzerland in general is one of the best places to explore?

Aareschlucht is just one of the interesting places in Switzerland. I have posted my journey in Oberrhrordorf (Baden) and Lucerne and will continue sharing my memories of Bern, Interlaken and Zurich.

* * * * *

10 Best Places to be Born in 2013 revealed. Will you travel to any of these countries to deliver?

2012-11-30T23:25:00.000-08:00

A revelation has been going around the globe. These days, it's not only the gender of the baby that the high-tech facilities can predict. Now, you can choose the country where you want your precious angel be born and see the first light. If you are on the way and you believe that there really are good places to go and deliver, then you should by now heading to the countries listed here.

I have visited 8 of these 10 countries and with my short stint in each respective capital cities, I can say that the survey result is quite realistic. I know that when you read this, some of you will be wondering what made these countries hit the top list. Is it the wealth, the health, and the chances of having a better future? And you may also think why smaller countries like Singapore and Hong Kong are on the list. If the news tickle your mind and you want to seek more information, click here to satisfy your curiosity.

Today is the first day of the last month of the year 2012, you still have one month left to decide which of the following best places you want to take a ride.

If you were born and living happily in any of these countries, then, you must be proud...and you must be one of the millions who think this blog is worth reading.

The top 10 best countries to be born in 2013 are:

1. Switzerland

2. Australia

3. Norway

4. Sweden

5. Denmark

6. Singapore

7. New Zealand

8. Netherlands

9. Canada

10. Hong Kong

Do you agree with the results of the survey? If not, this is the right place to share your views. If you believe your country should be listed here, tell us why. I will publish your comments and let the world know.

Now you can fly direct from Toronto to Manila ~ It all begins the moment you board Philippine Airlines

2012-11-25T21:58:00.001-08:00

Photo courtesy of Philippine Airlines

To serve the travelling public in Toronto and its neighbouring towns and cities, Philippine Airlines fly direct from Toronto to Manila in the comfort of their new B777-300ER. Whether you are flying as a 'balikbayan' or as a tourist, this is the best time to visit your dream destinations in the Philippines.

Starting November 30 and every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday thereafter, Philippine Airlines will depart via PR 119 from Toronto at 7:36 p.m. and arrives at Terminal 2 of Ninoy Aquino International Airport at 5:45 a.m. two calendar days later.

For a return flight from Manila to Toronto, it departs via PR 118 from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Fridays and Sundays and arrives at Terminal 3 of Toronto's Pearson International Airport at 5:00 p.m. same days.

Find out Philippine Airlines' latest offers, packages, special promos and more!

Sumptuous culinary treats, spacious and ergonomically designed seats with state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment ~ available in both Mabuhay and Fiesta Classes.

It's more fun in the Philippines. I know. I live half of my happy life in this country. I always hope to see the Philippines move on as the best tourist destination. This is one of the purposes of this blog ~ to help and support the Philippines in its goal to lead Asia in its tourism industry.

For complete information and flight details, please log on to www.philippineairlines.com

How to Enjoy Sabah in a Day

2012-10-28T18:14:00.000-07:00

Written by Shaiya Ong

Sabah is the island paradise of any diving enthusiasts, but what if you wish to visit the region but is not interested about diving? Is there another way in which you can enjoy it?

Most definitely! The allure of Sabah does not only rest in its diving spot, but its flora, fauna, and rich culture. You may wish to make a reservation at the best five star hotel in the island, because this will ultimately make your stay a memorable one. Moreover, it will give you easier access to the following must see destinations in the region.

The First 12 Hours in Sabah

It is best to arrive at the airport before noon, so you can enjoy your lunch at one of the restaurants in the region. This will give you enough energy for the places you intend to visit during your stay. When the clock strikes 2:00 pm, you can now go to your chosen hotel and deposit your luggage before hitting the road for your first destination.

River Safari Adventure (2:30 pm)

Upon arrival at Kota Kinabalu Airport, you may leave your luggage and wait for your travel agent to pick you up for a River Safari Adventure. The tour may last until the evening so it is important for you to eat a heavy meal and bring plenty of snacks with you. Do not leave your camera behind because you may miss the opportunity to take wonderful pictures of proboscis monkeys hanging on trees during your journey.

El Centro Café & Bar (8:00 pm)

Before you go back to your hotel, go to El Centro Café and have a delicious dinner. It is well loved by those who love to eat cuisines using the freshest ingredients without MSG. It is a healthy way to enjoy the Sabah dishes together with your all time favourite drinks and desserts.

At around 10 pm, you will be back at your hotel. Sleep tight because you still have one long journey to enjoy the next day. It would be nice if the hotel you have chosen offers a soothing spa or massage service, because your legs may be aching because of the long journey it has endured.

The Next 12 Hours in Sabah

Waking-up refreshed, go wear modest apparel because it is time to immerse yourself into the culture of the place.

The Floating Mosque (8:00 am)

After being captivated by the beauty of nature, it is time to see the grandeur of the popular floating mosque of Sabah. It is built on a man-made lagoon, which is spectacular in the moonlight. Talk about the scenes created by Princess Jasmine and Aladdin in the Disney Classic. It has a prayer hall that can accommodate as much as 12,000 people in one time, so be sure to practice modest apparel when visiting it. It is open to the public beginning 8 am until 5 pm, except for Fridays.

The Handicraft Market (10:30 am)

This may be your last chance to find souvenir items before you go back home. So walk from the Waterfront until you reach the handicraft market. Here you will find variety of beaded bracelets, key chains, necklaces, bookmarks, bags, and gift items that you can give to your friends at home.

Sabah Foundation Building (12:00 nn)

Before going to the airport, go on top of the Sabah Foundation Building. This 30-storey building is the highest tower in the region, and you will most definitely be captivated by the amazing view it offers. It is also a good way of saying goodbye to this beautiful paradise in the east.

One-day stay in Sabah is definitely short. You will find it more pleasurable if you do not need to rush from one place to another. Therefore, consider staying longer in its midst because the tourism department made it certain that all visitors will have an unforgettable experience under its care.

About the Author:

Shaiya is a freelance writer for Sabah Tourism. She enjoys reading and listening to music during her free time, as well as connecting to people all over the world.

15 Friendliest Countries revealed. Are they really that friendly?

2012-10-27T19:33:00.001-07:00

Friendly People of Austria

Once again, the World's Friendliest Countries has been released for 2012. While I quite agree with the results, am just not sure for the rankings that these countries got out of the 15. I have visited 10 of the countries listed and yes, most of them do deserve the honour. They are indeed friendly. I have not been to Cayman Islands, Spain, Bermuda, South Africa and Mexico, so I cannot talk about them in this blog.

In my opinion, the countries who should get the Top 5 Friendliest spots are: (1) New Zealand (2) Canada (3) Australia (4) Malaysia (5) United States. The rankings I have here is based solely on my travel experiences to these countries; pleasing local people, polite, helpful, honest and welcoming.

Take notice of the countries that should also be listed here because of their very friendly people ~ Switzerland, the Philippines, Denmark, Austria, Thailand, Indonesia, Japan, Turkey and maybe more.

How about you? Do you agree with the countries listed? Do you think your country should be one of them?

The following is a list of the 15 World's Friendliest Countries represented by their flags. If you do not agree, let's make our own rankings. Post your comments and let the world hear your opinion. Let them know why your country and people should be included in the most friendliest. Go ahead, give us your Top 5.

1. Cayman Islands

Flag of Cayman Islands

2. Australia

Flag of Australia

3. United Kingdom

Flag of the United Kingdom

4. Canada

Flag of Canada

5. New Zealand

Flag of New Zealand

6. Spain

Flag of Spain

7. United States

Flag of the United States of America

8. Bermuda

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9. South Africa

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10. Malaysia

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11. Mexico

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12. Germany

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13. Bahrain

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14. China

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15. Singapore

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Review: Porter Airlines' Ultimate Convenience

2012-09-26T18:21:00.001-07:00

Yes, you may fly via Porter Airlines on your short air travel to Canada and the U.S. Their standard of service is amazing. Their brand promise "flying refined" is all in there. It's seamless!

Photo courtesy of Porter Airlines

It was my first trip to Sault Saint Marie in Ontario. The purpose of my travel is to experience the taste of the breathtaking view of Agawa Canyon in Algoma. I normally take the Via Rail on my local journey, but because the train has no route to this city, I used Porter Airlines instead. I'd been hearing good reviews of this airline from friends and colleagues months back, so I thought this is the chance for me to give it a try.

To support my good impression of Porter's services and my decision to rate them a high score, I am giving you the reasons why I will be flying with this airline again and again in the future. These are very detailed information that I want to share with you based on my experience. It is easy to understand. Here we go....

Easy to make flight reservation. Honestly, it took me barely 15 minutes to book a round trip flight. Porter Airlines website is user-friendly.

Be a member of VIPorter. I must remind you to register with Porter Airlines' rewards programme prior to making flight reservation. It will earn you points for complimentary to anywhere in Canada and the U.S. Isn't that a good start?

Free Shuttle Bus. Yes, this is complimentary. I headed to downtown Toronto and took the bus parked at the west end of The Fairmont Royal York Hotel situated at the north-east corner of Front and York streets just across the Union Train Station. The shuttle bus leaves on the dot.

Free Ferry Ride. As soon as you get off the shuttle bus, you will be directed to the 10-minute ferry ride that will take you to the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport departure area. The airport is located on an island in Toronto harbour, just approximately ten minutes ferry ride, the world's shortest scheduled ferry run.

Checking in is easy. If you are flying to Canada or the U.S., half an hour to an hour checking in your luggages before your flights is fast and smooth. Please be reminded that you need an Identification Card (ID) when checking in.

Auto Check-in has done it for you. Really. You do not need to check in if you do not have check-in luggages. The airline will send you Boarding Passes for your outbound and inbound flights through your email. All you have to do is print a paper copy before heading to the airport and before boarding. Reminder: Present your Identification Card (ID) with your Boarding Pass.

Free Breakfast after Security Check. This is another plus point. My flight was early at 9:15a.m. so I did not have my breakfast before leaving my home. I headed to the lounge/restaurant with a number of breakfast tables and chairs. I was treated with assorted bakery items and cereals with beverage options, including juices, Starbucks coffee, Tazo teas, and pop/soft drinks.It is unlimited, meaning, all you can eat. Enjoy it!

Free Wi-Fi. Yes, you can avail of the internet connection while in the lounge having breakfast. This is a good chance to do unfinished tasks online while waiting for boarding.

Spacious Seats. Though my trip lasts for a little over an hour, it is good to mention here that the seats are very comfortable. More room for your legs to stretch freely.

Refreshments is served on-board. Few minutes after take off, you will be served with complimentary drinks and snacks. Coffee, tea, juices and pops are some of your choices for beverages.

Flight Attendants are very pleasant. I like their uniform. It's pretty cool. They all look dignified. Let's not forget the Ground Staff. They are fast and efficient...and polite.

Quick Baggage Claim. As soon as you disembarked, you will be able to pick your luggages in the conveyor after a few minutes. There is no wasted time.

All the information I provided here are based solely on my experience with the airlines. For specific and updated information on your Porter Airlines' experience, you may check their website below.

My first experience with Porter Airlines' meets my standard. Can I ask for more?

Category:Transportation/Airline
Name of Transport: Porter Airlines
Address: Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, Ontario, Canada
Website: www.flyporter.com
Rate: 9

Read Reviews: (Rated between 1 and 10) 1-Worst 10-Excellent